RECORD COLLECTING MONTHLY MIX 02: 1978 Best of the Year
A Trip Down Memory Lane to 1978
Welcome, dear music enthusiasts, to another edition of "Record Collecting Monthly Mix." This time, we're taking a nostalgic journey back to the musical landscape of 1978, a year that left an indelible mark on the history of rock, punk, disco, and everything in between. So join us as we explore some of the iconic albums and singles that defined the sound of '78.
01. Bruce Springsteen - "Badlands" (from 'Darkness On The Edge Of Town')
We kick off our journey with the Boss himself, Bruce Springsteen. "Badlands" from the album 'Darkness On The Edge Of Town' captures the raw energy and blue-collar spirit that Springsteen is known for. With its driving rhythm and anthemic chorus, this track is a timeless classic that still resonates with listeners today.
02. Elvis Costello - "Pump It Up" (from 'This Year's Model')
Elvis Costello burst onto the scene in '78 with "Pump It Up" from 'This Year's Model.' With its infectious hooks and Costello's distinctive voice, this song is a perfect example of his blend of punk and new wave influences.
03. The Jam - "It's Too Bad" (from 'All Mod Cons')
The Jam's 'All Mod Cons' album was a pivotal moment for the band and British punk rock. "It's Too Bad" showcases Paul Weller's songwriting prowess and the band's tight musicianship, proving that they were a force to be reckoned with.
04. Talking Heads - "Take Me To The River" (from 'More Songs About Buildings And Food')
Talking Heads took us on a quirky journey with their second album, 'More Songs About Buildings And Food.' "Take Me To The River" is a standout track that combines David Byrne's distinctive vocals with a groovy rhythm that's impossible not to dance to.
05. Culture - "Baldhead Bridge" (from 'Bald Head Bridge')
Reggae fans, rejoice! Culture's "Baldhead Bridge" is a reggae gem that captures the essence of the genre. With its smooth melodies and socially conscious lyrics, this track is a testament to the power of reggae music.
06. Peter Gabriel - "D.I.Y" (from 'Peter Gabriel II')
Peter Gabriel's second self-titled album introduced us to "D.I.Y," a song that showcased his experimental side. The track's blend of art rock and world music influences set the stage for Gabriel's innovative career.
07. Pere Ubu - "The Modern Dance" (from 'Modern Dance')
Pere Ubu's "The Modern Dance" is a post-punk masterpiece that pushed the boundaries of what rock music could be. David Thomas's eccentric vocals and the band's avant-garde sound made this track a cult classic.
08. X-Ray Spex - "Warrior In Woolworths" (from 'Germ Free Adolescents')
X-Ray Spex's "Warrior In Woolworths" is a punk anthem that perfectly encapsulates the band's irreverent and rebellious spirit. Poly Styrene's fierce vocals and socially charged lyrics made this track unforgettable.
09. David Johansen - "Funky But Chic" (from 'David Johansen')
David Johansen, formerly of the New York Dolls, reinvented himself with his self-titled album. "Funky But Chic" is a rollicking track that combines rock and roll with a touch of glam, showcasing Johansen's charismatic stage presence.
10. Siouxsie & The Banshees - "Mirage" (from 'The Scream')
Siouxsie & The Banshees made their mark in '78 with "Mirage" from their debut album, 'The Scream.' This dark and haunting track laid the foundation for the band's influential goth-rock sound.
11. Penetration - "Life's A Gamble" (from 'Moving Targets')
Penetration's "Life's A Gamble" is a punk rock anthem that captures the energy and rebellion of the late '70s punk scene. Pauline Murray's powerful vocals make this track stand out.
12. Captain Beefheart & The Magic Band - "Ice Rose" (from 'Shiny Beast (Bat Chain Puller)')
"Ice Rose" from the album 'Shiny Beast (Bat Chain Puller)' is a testament to Beefheart's avant-garde approach. This track challenges conventional norms and takes the listener on a unique auditory adventure.
13. Rolling Stones - "Miss You" (12in Mix) (Single)
The Rolling Stones brought their signature rock 'n' roll swagger into the disco era with "Miss You." This extended 12-inch mix of the single captures the infectious groove that had people hitting the dance floor in '78.
14. Magazine - "The Light Pours Out Of Me" (from 'Real Life')
Magazine's "The Light Pours Out Of Me" is a post-punk gem that shines brightly on their debut album, 'Real Life.' With its moody atmosphere and poetic lyrics, this track showcases the band's artful approach to music.
15. Tom Waits - "Somewhere" (from 'Blue Valentine')
Tom Waits' gravelly voice and poetic storytelling shine in "Somewhere" from the album 'Blue Valentine.' This song is a haunting and emotionally charged ballad that leaves a lasting impression.
16. XTC - "This Is Pop" (from 'White Music')
XTC's "This Is Pop" is a burst of new wave energy from their debut album 'White Music.' With its catchy melody and quirky lyrics, this track is a testament to the band's ability to blend pop sensibilities with their unique style.
17. Devo - "Jocko Homo" (from 'Q: Are We Not Men? A: We Are Devo!')
Devo's "Jocko Homo" is a quirky and satirical anthem that marked the arrival of the new wave era. This track's distinctive sound and subversive lyrics established Devo as pioneers of the genre.
18. The Buzzcocks - "Ever Fallen In Love" (from 'Love Bites')
Pete Shelley's unforgettable vocals take center stage in The Buzzcocks' "Ever Fallen In Love." This punk rock classic from 'Love Bites' is a testament to the band's ability to blend raw energy with memorable melodies.
19. Public Image Ltd - "Public Image" (Single)
John Lydon, formerly Johnny Rotten of the Sex Pistols, reinvented himself with Public Image Ltd. "Public Image" is a post-punk manifesto that marked the beginning of Lydon's post-punk journey.
20. Clash - "(White Man) In Hammersmith Palais" (Single)
The Clash's "(White Man) In Hammersmith Palais" is a politically charged single that reflects the band's punk ethos. With its social commentary and infectious rhythm, this track remains relevant even today.
21. Kraftwerk - "The Robots" (from 'Man-Machine')
Kraftwerk's electronic masterpiece "The Robots" from 'Man-Machine' is a pioneering work that laid the foundation for electronic music as we know it today. The band's use of synthesizers and robotic themes set the stage for a new musical era.
22. Thin Lizzy - "The Boys Are Back In Town" (from 'Live And Dangerous')
Thin Lizzy's live rendition of "The Boys Are Back In Town" captures the band's electrifying stage presence. This track showcases their signature twin guitar harmonies and is a highlight of the 'Live And Dangerous' album.
23. Ian Dury & The Blockheads - "Hit Me With Your Rhythm Stick" (Single)
Ian Dury & The Blockheads brought their quirky and infectious sound to the forefront with "Hit Me With Your Rhythm Stick," a single that became an instant classic.
24. Subway Sect - "Ambition" (Single)
Subway Sect's "Ambition" is a punk gem that perfectly embodies the DIY spirit of the late '70s punk scene.
25. Nick Lowe - "I Love the Sound of Breaking Glass" (Single)
Nick Lowe's "I Love the Sound of Breaking Glass" is a catchy and irreverent tune that captures the essence of punk's early days.
26. Wire - "I Am The Fly" (from 'Chairs Missing')
Wire's "I Am The Fly" showcases their unique brand of post-punk, marked by sharp lyrics and minimalist arrangements.
27. Gang Of Four - "Damaged Goods" (EP)
With their EP "Damaged Goods," Gang Of Four unleashed a fierce and politically charged sound that would influence generations of musicians.
28. Patti Smith - "Because The Night" (Single)
Patti Smith's "Because The Night" is a timeless classic that blends rock and poetry, showcasing her immense talent.
29. Sylvester - "You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)" (12" Single)
Sylvester's disco anthem "You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)" is a dancefloor filler that continues to get people grooving.
30. Television - "Foxhole" (from 'Adventure')
Television's "Foxhole" is a testament to their unique blend of punk and art rock, a sound that set them apart from their contemporaries.
31. A Taste Of Honey - "Boogie Oogie Oogie" (12" Single)
"A Taste Of Honey" brought the funk with their infectious disco hit "Boogie Oogie Oogie," making it impossible not to hit the dancefloor.
32. Althea & Donna - "Uptown Top Ranking" (Single)
Reggae duo Althea & Donna's "Uptown Top Ranking" was a reggae classic that reached audiences far beyond Jamaica.
33. Odyssey - "Native New Yorker" (12" Single)
Odyssey's "Native New Yorker" is a smooth disco track that captures the essence of the late '70s dance scene.
34. Rose Royce - "Love Don't Live Here Anymore" (Single)
"Love Don't Live Here Anymore" by Rose Royce is a soulful ballad that tugs at the heartstrings.
35. Kate Bush - "Oh To Be In Love" (from 'The Kick Inside')
Kate Bush's enchanting "Oh To Be In Love" showcased her ethereal voice and poetic songwriting.
36. Blondie - "Gonna Love You Too" (from 'Parallel Lines')
Blondie's "Gonna Love You Too" is a new wave gem from their iconic 'Parallel Lines' album.
37. Chic - "Chic Cheer" (from 'C'Est Chic')
Chic's "Chic Cheer" is a disco-infused instrumental track that still brings the funk.
38. Tavares - "More Than A Woman" (Single)
Tavares' smooth "More Than A Woman" captures the essence of disco romance.
39. Hi-Tension - "Hi-Tension" (12" Single)
Hi-Tension's self-titled track is a disco-funk banger that's perfect for getting down on the dancefloor.
40. Dire Straits - "Water Of Love" (from 'Dire Straits')
"Water Of Love" by Dire Straits is a laid-back, bluesy track that marked the beginning of their legendary career.
41. Bee Gees - "Night Fever" (Single)
The Bee Gees' "Night Fever" is a disco anthem that defined an era.
42. Only Ones - "Another Girl Another Planet" (Single)
"Another Girl Another Planet" by Only Ones is a power-pop classic that has stood the test of time.
43. Police - "Roxanne" (Single)
The Police's "Roxanne" introduced the world to their distinctive sound and marked the beginning of their meteoric rise.
44. Marvin Gaye - "Anger" (from 'Here My Dear')
Marvin Gaye's "Anger" is a soulful exploration of complex emotions, showcasing his incredible vocal range.
45. Bob Dylan - "Baby Stop Crying" (from 'Street Legal')
Bob Dylan's "Baby Stop Crying" is a heartfelt track from his 'Street Legal' album.
46. ABBA - "Take A Chance On Me" (Single)
ABBA's "Take A Chance On Me" is a pop classic that still gets people dancing today.
47. Electric Light Orchestra - "Mr Blue Sky" (Single)
Electric Light Orchestra's "Mr Blue Sky" is a sunny and infectious tune that has become a timeless classic.
48. Bill Withers - "Lovely Day" (Single)
Bill Withers' "Lovely Day" is a feel-good anthem that never fails to put a smile on your face.
49. Todd Rundgren - "You Cried Wolf" (from 'Hermit Of Mink Hollow')
Todd Rundgren's "You Cried Wolf" is a poignant track from his 'Hermit Of Mink Hollow' album.
50. Gerry Rafferty - "Baker Street" (from 'City To City')
Gerry Rafferty's "Baker Street" features one of the most iconic saxophone solos in rock history.
51. Human League - "Being Boiled" (Single)
Human League's "Being Boiled" is a synth-driven single that foreshadowed the electronic music revolution.
52. Funkadelic - "One Nation Under A Groove" (from 'One Nation Under A Groove')
Funkadelic's "One Nation Under A Groove" is a funkadelic anthem that brought people together on the dancefloor.
53. Thomas Leer - "Private Plane" (Single)
Thomas Leer's "Private Plane" is a synth-pop gem that captured the experimental spirit of the late '70s.
54. Cars - "Moving In Stereo" (from 'The Cars')
The Cars' "Moving In Stereo" is a hypnotic track that adds depth to their iconic self-titled album.
55. Genesis - "Follow You Follow Me" (Single)
Genesis' "Follow You Follow Me" is a melodic and accessible track that marked a shift in their musical direction.
56. Giorgio Moroder - "Chase" (12" Single)
Giorgio Moroder's "Chase" is a pulsating electronic track that defined the era's disco sound.
57. Peter Hammill - "If I Could" (from 'The Future Now')
Peter Hammill's "If I Could" is a hauntingly beautiful track that showcases his unique vocal style.
58. The Movies - "Last Train" (from 'Bullets Through The Barrier')
The Movies' "Last Train" is a lesser-known gem that deserves a place in any '70s music collection.
59. The Fall - "Bingo Masters Breakout" (Single)
The Fall's "Bingo Masters Breakout" is a post-punk classic that captures the band's raw energy.
60. Motorhead - "Louie Louie" (Single)
Motorhead's take on "Louie Louie" is a gritty and raucous version that's pure rock 'n' roll.