Album Info
| Artist: | Hoodoo Gurus |
| Album: | Mars Needs Guitars! |
| Released: | Australia, 29 Jul 1985 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Bittersweet | 3:44 |
| A2 | Poison Pen | 4:09 |
| A3 | In The Wild | 3:07 |
| A4 | Death Defying | 3:21 |
| A5 | Like Wow-Wipeout | 3:09 |
| B1 | Hayride To Hell | 3:15 |
| B2 | Show Some Emotion | 2:56 |
| B3 | The Other Side Of Paradise | 3:31 |
| B4 | Mars Needs Guitars! | 2:52 |
| Lead Vocals - Brad Shepherd | ||
| Written-By - B. Shepherd, C. Bramley, D. Faulkner, J. Baker, M. Kingsmill | ||
| B5 | She | 3:28 |
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)
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- 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)
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- You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at info@funkyduckvinyl.com
- Happy Listening!
Description
"Mars Needs Guitars!" is the second studio album by the Australian rock band Hoodoo Gurus, released in 1985. This album solidified the band's reputation as one of the leading acts in the Australian rock scene during the 1980s. Known for their catchy melodies, clever lyrics, and energetic performances, Hoodoo Gurus managed to capture the essence of rock and roll while infusing it with their unique style.
The album opens with "Bittersweet," a track that quickly became one of the band's most iconic songs. With its infectious chorus and driving guitar riffs, "Bittersweet" exemplifies the band's ability to craft memorable rock anthems. The song's success helped propel the album to commercial success, reaching number 5 on the Australian Kent Music Report Albums Chart.
Another standout track is "Like Wow – Wipeout!" which showcases the band's knack for blending humor with rock sensibilities. The song's playful lyrics and upbeat tempo make it a fan favorite and a staple in the band's live performances. "Death Defying" is another highlight, featuring a more introspective tone and showcasing the band's versatility in songwriting.
"Mars Needs Guitars!" received critical acclaim upon its release, with many praising the band's ability to blend different rock influences into a cohesive sound. The album's production, handled by Charles Fisher, was noted for its clarity and energy, capturing the raw power of the band's live performances. Critics appreciated the album's balance of catchy pop hooks and rock edge, which made it accessible to a wide audience.
The album's title, "Mars Needs Guitars!", is a playful nod to the 1960s science fiction film "Mars Needs Women," reflecting the band's penchant for quirky and humorous references. This sense of fun and irreverence is a hallmark of the Hoodoo Gurus' style, setting them apart from many of their contemporaries.
In terms of cultural significance, "Mars Needs Guitars!" played a crucial role in establishing the Hoodoo Gurus as a major force in the Australian music scene. The album's success helped pave the way for other Australian bands to gain international recognition, contributing to the global perception of Australia as a hotbed for innovative rock music during the 1980s.
The album's impact extended beyond Australia, as it also found an audience in the United States and Europe. The Hoodoo Gurus' ability to resonate with international audiences was a testament to their universal appeal and the timeless quality of their music.
Overall, "Mars Needs Guitars!" is a quintessential example of 1980s rock, blending elements of power pop, garage rock, and punk into a sound that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking. The album's enduring popularity is a testament to the Hoodoo Gurus' talent and their ability to craft songs that continue to resonate with listeners decades after their initial release.
In summary, "Mars Needs Guitars!" is a landmark album in the Hoodoo Gurus' discography and a significant contribution to the rock genre. Its combination of catchy melodies, clever lyrics, and energetic performances make it a must-listen for fans of classic rock and anyone interested in the evolution of Australian music. The album's legacy is evident in its continued influence on both fans and musicians alike, cementing the Hoodoo Gurus' place in the pantheon of great rock bands.
