About this album
Where they were
Released in 1987, 'The Ideal Copy' is Wire's fifth studio album and marks their return to the music scene after a five-year hiatus. This period followed their experimental phase in the early 80s, showcasing a shift towards more refined production techniques and an embrace of new wave elements.
Why it matters
'The Ideal Copy' received critical acclaim, noted for its innovation and influence on post-punk and art rock. It solidified Wire's status as a pioneering band within the underground music scene, earning spots on various alternative charts and influencing subsequent artists seeking to blend punk ethos with avant-garde sensibilities.
Essential tracks
- "Madman’s Honey" — This track embodies the album's experimental spirit, juxtaposing dissonant sounds with an almost hypnotic rhythm that draws listeners into its unique landscape.
- "Feed Me" — 'Feed Me' showcases Wire's ability to merge catchy hooks with abstract lyrical content, making it a standout example of their evolved sound during this era.
- "Still Shows" — With its introspective lyrics and dynamic shifts, 'Still Shows' highlights the band's knack for blending tension and melody, representing the album's overall thematic depth.
Release Date
April 1, 1987
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Tracklist
- 1 The Point of Collapse 3:22
- 2 Ahead 4:59
- 3 Madman’s Honey 4:28
- 4 Feed Me 6:00
- 5 Ambitious 4:05
- 6 Cheeking Tongues 2:08
- 7 Still Shows 4:10
- 8 Over Theirs 5:25
- 9 “A Serious of Snakes” 4:53
- 10 Drill 5:04
- 11 Advantage in Height 3:06
- 12 Up to the Sun 2:50
- 13 Ambulance Chasers (live) 3:02
- 14 Feed Me (live) 4:31
- 15 Vivid Riot of Red (live) 2:33
