About this album
Where they were
Released on November 1, 1977, 'Pink Flag' was Wire's debut album and marked their entry into the burgeoning punk scene. At this point, the band had just formed earlier that year, experimenting with a sound that would influence countless post-punk acts. Their concise tracks and innovative approaches to structure set them apart from their contemporaries.
Why it matters
This album is significant for its pioneering role in the post-punk movement, influencing bands like R.E.M. and The Minutemen with its avant-garde approach. 'Pink Flag' received critical acclaim upon release, appearing in numerous best-of lists and establishing Wire as a foundational act in underground music.
Essential tracks
- "Three Girl Rhumba" — This track epitomizes Wire's minimalist ethos, packing punchy energy into just over a minute while showcasing their unique lyrical style.
- "Ex Lion Tamer" — With its driving rhythm and sardonic lyrics, this song highlights the band's ability to blend punk's urgency with artful commentary.
- "Pink Flag" — 'Pink Flag' serves as an anthem for disillusionment, combining catchy hooks with an experimental edge that defines the album's overall aesthetic.
- "Mr. Suit" — 'Mr. Suit' delivers a critique of conformity and capitalism, reflecting the band's sharp social observations wrapped in a succinct melody.
Release Date
November 1, 1977
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Tracklist
- 1 Reuters 3:03
- 2 Field Day for the Sundays 0:28
- 3 Three Girl Rhumba 1:23
- 4 Ex Lion Tamer 2:19
- 5 Lowdown 2:26
- 6 Start to Move 1:13
- 7 Brazil 0:41
- 8 It’s So Obvious 0:53
- 9 Surgeon’s Girl 1:17
- 10 Pink Flag 3:47
- 11 The Commercial 0:49
- 12 Straight Line 0:44
- 13 106 Beats That 1:12
- 14 Mr. Suit 1:25
- 15 Strange 3:58
- 16 Fragile 1:18
- 17 Mannequin 2:37
- 18 Different to Me 0:43
- 19 Champs 1:46
- 20 Feeling Called Love 1:22
- 21 1 2 X U 1:55
- 22 Dot Dash 2:25
- 23 Options R 1:36
