Album Info
| Artist: | Howard Devoto |
| Album: | Jerky Versions Of The Dream |
| Released: | Australia, 1983 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Cold Imagination | 4:12 |
| A2 | Topless | 3:43 |
| A3 | Rainy Season | 5:08 |
| A4 | I Admire You | 5:08 |
| A5 | Way Out Of Shape | 3:50 |
| B1 | Some Will Pay (For What Others Pay To Avoid) | 3:35 |
| B2 | Waiting For A Train | 4:45 |
| B3 | Out Of Shape With Me | 4:10 |
| B4 | Taking Over Heaven | 3:54 |
| B5 | Seeing Is Believing | 3:10 |
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 $150 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 cardboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- We almost always ship in stock 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
"Jerky Versions of the Dream," released in 1983, is the debut solo album by Howard Devoto, the former frontman of the influential post-punk band Magazine. This album marks a significant departure from Devoto's previous work, showcasing his ability to blend various musical styles while maintaining his distinctive lyrical prowess.
The album opens with "Cold Imagination," a track that immediately sets the tone with its intricate arrangements and Devoto's unmistakable vocal delivery. The song's layered instrumentation and introspective lyrics highlight Devoto's evolution as an artist, moving away from the raw energy of his punk roots towards a more polished and experimental sound.
One of the standout tracks on the album is "Rainy Season," which features a catchy melody and a driving rhythm that contrasts with the often dark and introspective themes of the lyrics. Devoto's ability to craft songs that are both musically engaging and lyrically complex is evident throughout the album, and "Rainy Season" is a prime example of this talent.
"Waiting for a Train" is another highlight, with its infectious groove and memorable chorus. The song's upbeat tempo and playful instrumentation provide a counterpoint to the more somber tracks on the album, showcasing Devoto's versatility as a songwriter. The track was released as a single and received some attention, though it did not achieve significant commercial success.
Critically, "Jerky Versions of the Dream" was well-received, with many reviewers praising Devoto's ability to reinvent himself and explore new musical territories. The album's production, handled by Devoto himself along with Colin Thurston, is polished and sophisticated, allowing the intricate arrangements and Devoto's distinctive voice to shine through.
While the album did not achieve major commercial success, it has been appreciated by fans and critics alike for its artistic ambition and the way it captures a transitional moment in Devoto's career. The album's eclectic mix of styles, ranging from new wave to art rock, reflects the diverse influences that Devoto was drawing from at the time.
"Jerky Versions of the Dream" did not win any major awards, but it holds a special place in the hearts of those who followed Devoto's career from his early days with Buzzcocks and Magazine. The album is often seen as a cult classic, appreciated for its depth and the way it encapsulates the spirit of experimentation that characterized much of the music from the early 1980s.
In terms of cultural significance, the album represents a period of transition in the post-punk era, as artists like Devoto began to explore more complex and varied musical landscapes. It stands as a testament to Devoto's enduring influence on the genre and his willingness to push boundaries and defy expectations.
Overall, "Jerky Versions of the Dream" is a compelling and richly textured album that showcases Howard Devoto's unique artistic vision. While it may not have achieved widespread commercial success, its impact on the post-punk and new wave scenes is undeniable, and it remains a fascinating listen for those interested in the evolution of these genres. Devoto's ability to blend introspective lyrics with innovative musical arrangements makes this album a noteworthy entry in his discography and a must-listen for fans of his work.
