Album Info
| Artist: | Joe Jackson |
| Album: | Night And Day |
| Released: | Australia, 1982 |
Tracklist:
| Night Side | ||
| A1 | Another World | 4:00 |
| A2 | Chinatown | 4:08 |
| A3 | T.V. Age | 3:45 |
| Music By - Steve Tatler | ||
| A4 | Target | 3:52 |
| Bongos, Cowbell, Claves - Ricardo Torres | ||
| A5 | Steppin' Out | 4:34 |
| Day Side | ||
| B1 | Breaking Us In Two | 4:57 |
| B2 | Cancer | 6:06 |
| Bongos, Cowbell, Claves - Ricardo Torres | ||
| B3 | Real Men | 4:05 |
| Violin - Ed Rynesdal | ||
| B4 | A Slow Song | 7:15 |
| Violin - Ed Rynesdal |
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
Joe Jackson's "Night and Day," released in June 1982, stands as a seminal work in the artist's discography and a significant contribution to the new wave and pop genres of the early 1980s. This album marked a departure from Jackson's earlier punk and new wave influences, showcasing a more sophisticated and jazz-inflected sound that drew heavily from the vibrant cultural milieu of New York City, where Jackson had recently relocated.
"Night and Day" is a concept album, thematically divided into two sides: "Night Side" and "Day Side." This structure reflects the duality of urban life, capturing the contrasting energies of daytime hustle and nighttime allure. The album's production is notable for its minimalistic approach, eschewing guitars in favor of keyboards, percussion, and Latin-inspired rhythms, which lend the record a distinctive and cohesive sonic identity.
The album opens with "Another World," a track that immediately sets the tone with its rhythmic complexity and lyrical exploration of escapism. This is followed by "Chinatown," which features intricate piano work and a narrative steeped in the mystique of its titular locale. However, it is the third track, "T.V. Age," that truly encapsulates Jackson's critique of contemporary media culture, delivered with a biting wit and infectious melody.
The standout track of "Night and Day" is undoubtedly "Steppin' Out." This song became Jackson's biggest hit, reaching No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning him Grammy nominations for Record of the Year and Best Pop Vocal Performance, Male. "Steppin' Out" is a shimmering, synth-driven ode to the excitement and possibility of a night out in the city, characterized by its elegant arrangement and Jackson's evocative vocal delivery.
Another highlight is "Breaking Us in Two," a poignant ballad that showcases Jackson's ability to blend introspective lyrics with lush, melodic instrumentation. This track also enjoyed commercial success, peaking at No. 18 on the Billboard Hot 100. The "Night Side" concludes with "Cancer," a song that juxtaposes a jaunty, almost whimsical musical backdrop with darkly humorous lyrics about the perils of modern living.
The "Day Side" of the album opens with "Real Men," a song that addresses themes of masculinity and sexual identity with a boldness that was ahead of its time. This track, with its haunting melody and thought-provoking lyrics, remains one of Jackson's most enduring works. "A Slow Song," the album's closing track, is a heartfelt plea for emotional connection in an increasingly fast-paced world, providing a fitting and contemplative end to the record.
"Night and Day" received widespread critical acclaim upon its release. Critics praised Jackson's songwriting, the album's sophisticated production, and its seamless blend of pop, jazz, and Latin influences. The album was a commercial success as well, reaching No. 4 on the UK Albums Chart and No. 20 on the Billboard 200 in the United States.
In terms of historical and cultural significance, "Night and Day" is often regarded as Joe Jackson's magnum opus. It captures the zeitgeist of early 1980s New York City, a period marked by artistic experimentation and cultural cross-pollination. The album's exploration of urban life, media saturation, and personal identity resonates with listeners even decades after its release.
In summary, Joe Jackson's "Night and Day" is a masterful album that showcases the artist's versatility and keen observational skills. Its standout tracks, critical acclaim, and cultural relevance make it a landmark record in the landscape of 1980s music. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to Jackson's work, "Night and Day" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that stands the test of time.