Album Info
| Artist: | Billy Idol |
| Album: | Billy Idol |
| Released: | Australia, 1982 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Come On, Come On | 3:57 |
| A2 | White Wedding (Part 1) | 4:10 |
| A3 | Hot In The City | 3:35 |
| A4 | Dead On Arrival | 3:53 |
| A5 | Nobody's Business | 4:03 |
| B1 | Love Calling | 4:53 |
| B2 | Hole In The Wall | 4:07 |
| B3 | Shooting Stars | 4:30 |
| B4 | It's So Cruel | 5:09 |
| B5 | Congo Man | 0:52 |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne's North (Australia)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- All pictures of the second hand/used vinyl records are actual pictures of the album in stock.
- We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post.
- Free Shipping for orders $125 and over.
- You can also pick up your order in store, just select Local Pickup at the checkout.
- We also ship internationally - prices vary depending on weight and location.
- We ship vinyls in thick, rigid carboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- We almost always ship your vinyl next business day (excluding pre orders)
- We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn't arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record.
- If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store.
- You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at info@funkyduckvinyl.com
- Happy Listening!
Description
The eponymous debut album from Billy Idol, released in 1982, was a seminal moment in the punk rock movement's evolution. Transitioning from his work with Generation X, Idol embarked on a solo journey that brought a blend of punk's raw energy with the more polished sound of new wave. "Billy Idol" is an album that captures this transitional phase, combining the rebellious spirit of punk with catchy melodies and a hint of glam.
Right from the onset with "Come On, Come On", Idol's distinct raspy voice draws listeners in. His vocal style, teetering between aggressive snarls and melodic crooning, became one of the defining characteristics of his career. This album effectively showcases that range, giving fans a taste of what was to come in his subsequent releases.
The standout track, "White Wedding", remains one of Idol's most iconic songs. The catchy guitar riff, combined with Idol's unique vocal delivery, makes it a classic that transcends time. The lyrics, laden with subtle innuendos and a rebellious undertone, embody the punk ethos while being wrapped in a package that's radio-friendly. It's this very duality that makes "Billy Idol" such an engaging listen.
"Hot in the City", another highlight, demonstrates Idol's ability to craft songs that appeal to a broader audience without compromising his punk roots. The track's sultry undertones, combined with its anthemic chorus, showcase Idol's talent in blending genres to create a sound that's uniquely his own.
The album also has its introspective moments. "Love Calling" touches on themes of longing and unrequited love, a departure from the more rebellious tracks on the album. Yet, Idol's delivery ensures that the song retains an edge, fitting seamlessly into the album's overall vibe.
However, as with any debut, "Billy Idol" has its moments of experimentation. Some tracks might not have the same lasting appeal as "White Wedding" or "Hot in the City", but they provide insight into Idol's evolution as an artist. Songs like "Dead on Arrival" and "Shooting Stars" might not have been chart-toppers, but they offer fans a glimpse into the diverse influences that shaped Idol's music.
A possible critique of the album is that it occasionally leans too heavily on the new wave sound, potentially alienating some hardcore punk fans. Yet, it's this very blending of genres that set Idol apart from his contemporaries and paved the way for his future successes.
In conclusion, "Billy Idol" is more than just a debut album; it's a statement. It announced the arrival of a new voice in rock music, one that wasn't afraid to challenge conventions and blend genres. While it might not be Idol's most polished work, it remains an essential listen for anyone interested in the evolution of punk rock during the early 1980s. The album captures a young artist finding his voice, and in the process, giving the world some unforgettable tracks.