About this album
Sound:
"Joyful punk energy bursts forth with catchy melodies and youthful exuberance throughout the album."
Where they were
Released on May 13, 1979, The Undertones marked the debut album for the Northern Irish band, following their formation in 1975. This self-titled record introduced their signature sound and laid the groundwork for their influence in the punk rock scene, especially in the UK and Ireland.
Why it matters
The Undertones received critical acclaim upon its release, significantly impacting the punk rock genre with its infectious hooks and youthful themes. The album features 'Teenage Kicks,' which became a defining anthem of the era and remains a significant influence on subsequent generations of musicians.
Essential tracks
- "Teenage Kicks" — 'Teenage Kicks' exemplifies the band's energetic style and lyrical focus on youth, becoming a cultural touchstone for punk music.
- "Here Comes the Summer" — This track captures a bright, optimistic energy that reflects the carefree spirit of teenage life and showcases their catchy songwriting.
- "Get Over You" — 'Get Over You' combines infectious melodies with relatable lyrics about young love, highlighting the band's knack for memorable hooks.
- "Family Entertainment" — Opening the album, 'Family Entertainment' sets an upbeat tone with its playful critique of domestic life, embodying the band's youthful perspective.
Release Date
May 13, 1979
Artist Origin
Northern Ireland
Tracklist
- 1 Family Entertainment 2:37
- 2 Girls Don’t Like It 2:19
- 3 Male Model 1:54
- 4 I Gotta Getta 1:53
- 5 Teenage Kicks 2:25
- 6 Wrong Way 1:23
- 7 Jump Boys 2:40
- 8 Here Comes the Summer 1:42
- 9 Get Over You 2:44
- 10 Billy’s Third 1:57
- 11 Jimmy Jimmy 2:40
- 12 True Confessions 1:52
- 13 (She’s a) Runaround 1:49
- 14 I Know a Girl 2:35
- 15 Listening In 2:24
- 16 Casbah Rock 0:47
- 17 Smarter Than U 1:34
- 18 Emergency Cases 1:51
- 19 Top Twenty 2:10
- 20 Really Really 1:50
- 21 Mars Bars 2:06
- 22 She Can Only Say No 0:50
- 23 One Way Love 2:11
