Album Info
| Artist: | Haircut One Hundred |
| Album: | Pelican West |
| Released: | Australia, 1982 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Favourite Shirts (Boy Meets Girl) | 3:02 |
| A2 | Love Plus One | 3:32 |
| A3 | Lemon Firebrigade | 3:54 |
| A4 | Marine Boy | 3:33 |
| A5 | Milk Film | 2:52 |
| A6 | Kingsize (You're My Little Steam Whistle) | 4:25 |
| B1 | Fantastic Day | 3:13 |
| B2 | Baked Bean | 4:04 |
| B3 | Snow Girl | 2:53 |
| B4 | Love's Got Me In Triangles | 3:37 |
| B5 | Surprise Me Again | 3:18 |
| B6 | Calling Captain Autumn | 3:58 |
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
"Pelican West," the debut album by British band Haircut One Hundred, was released in February 1982 and quickly became a defining record of the early 1980s new wave scene. The album is a vibrant collection of pop songs characterized by their catchy melodies, intricate guitar work, and the distinctive voice of lead singer Nick Heyward. With its upbeat and polished sound, "Pelican West" captures the essence of the post-punk era while infusing it with a fresh, pop sensibility.
The album was both a commercial and critical success, reaching number 2 on the UK Albums Chart and producing several hit singles. Among these, "Love Plus One" stands out as the most successful, peaking at number 3 on the UK Singles Chart and gaining significant airplay internationally. The song's infectious chorus and upbeat rhythm made it a staple of early 80s pop radio. Other notable tracks include "Favourite Shirts (Boy Meets Girl)," which was the band's debut single and reached number 4 in the UK, and "Fantastic Day," another top 10 hit that exemplifies the band's knack for crafting feel-good pop anthems.
Haircut One Hundred's music is often noted for its sophisticated arrangements and the use of a wide range of instruments, including saxophones, trumpets, and percussion, which add a layer of complexity to their sound. This is particularly evident in tracks like "Lemon Firebrigade" and "Marine Boy," where the interplay between the brass section and the rhythm guitar creates a rich, textured soundscape. The band's ability to blend pop with elements of jazz and funk set them apart from many of their contemporaries and contributed to the album's enduring appeal.
Critically, "Pelican West" was well-received for its polished production and the band's tight musicianship. The album's producer, Bob Sargeant, played a significant role in shaping its sound, ensuring that each track was meticulously crafted to highlight the band's strengths. The album's bright, optimistic tone and catchy hooks resonated with audiences, making it a quintessential example of early 80s pop music.
Despite the album's success, Haircut One Hundred's time in the spotlight was relatively short-lived. Internal tensions and creative differences led to Nick Heyward's departure from the band in 1983, effectively marking the end of their original lineup. Heyward went on to pursue a solo career, while the remaining members attempted to continue under the Haircut One Hundred name, but they never recaptured the success of "Pelican West."
In terms of cultural significance, "Pelican West" is often remembered as a quintessential album of the new wave era, capturing the youthful exuberance and stylistic experimentation that defined the early 1980s. The album's influence can be seen in the work of later artists who sought to blend pop with more eclectic musical elements. Its legacy is also evident in the continued popularity of its singles, which remain staples on retro playlists and compilations celebrating the music of the 1980s.
Overall, "Pelican West" is a testament to Haircut One Hundred's ability to create music that is both sophisticated and accessible. The album's combination of catchy pop hooks, intricate arrangements, and polished production make it a standout record of its time. While the band's career may have been brief, "Pelican West" ensures that Haircut One Hundred's contribution to the music of the 1980s is not forgotten.