Album Info
Artist: | Men At Work |
Album: | Business As Usual |
Released: | Australia, 1981 |
Tracklist:
A1 | Who Can It Be Now? | 3:20 |
Lyrics By, Music By - Colin Hay | ||
A2 | I Can See It In Your Eyes | 3:26 |
Lyrics By, Music By - Colin Hay | ||
A3 | Down Under | 3:39 |
Lyrics By - Colin Hay | ||
Music By - Hay, Strykert | ||
A4 | Underground | 3:04 |
Lyrics By, Music By - Colin Hay | ||
A5 | Helpless Automaton | 3:18 |
Lyrics By, Music By - Greg Ham | ||
B1 | People Just Love To Play With Words | 3:33 |
Lyrics By, Music By - Ron Strykert | ||
B2 | Be Good Johnny | 3:33 |
Lyrics By - Colin Hay | ||
Music By - Colin Hay, Greg Ham | ||
B3 | Touching The Untouchables | 3:47 |
Lyrics By - Colin Hay, Ron Strykert | ||
Music By - Ron Strykert | ||
B4 | Catch A Star | 3:28 |
Lyrics By, Music By - Colin Hay | ||
B5 | Down By The Sea | 6:48 |
Lyrics By - Colin Hay | ||
Music By - Hay, Ham, Speiser, Strykert |
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.
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- 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.
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- We also ship internationally - prices vary depending on weight and location.
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- 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
1981 saw the rise of an Australian band that would quickly cement itself into the annals of pop-rock history. Men At Work's debut album, "Business As Usual," is an effervescent blend of new wave, rock, and pop that resonated globally, making the band an international sensation.
From the opening notes of "Who Can It Be Now?" with its iconic saxophone line, it becomes clear that Men At Work had a knack for crafting catchy hooks that could capture an audience. Colin Hay's distinctive voice, simultaneously laid-back and intense, drives the narratives of each song, while the instrumentation combines rock fundamentals with hints of reggae and world music.
The album's standout track, "Down Under," became an unofficial anthem for Australia. Its infectious chorus, quirky flute riff, and playful lyrics celebrate Australian culture and identity. The song not only topped charts worldwide but also became an enduring representation of Australian popular music on the global stage.
But "Business As Usual" isn't just about its mega-hits. Tracks like "Be Good Johnny" and "Underground" showcase the band's versatility. The former is a rhythmic tale of youthful rebellion, while the latter delves into a darker, more introspective soundscape. These tracks underscore Men At Work's ability to balance commercial appeal with genuine artistic expression.
The cohesion of "Business As Usual" is also commendable. While each track can stand alone, the album flows seamlessly from start to finish, offering a holistic listening experience. The lyrics, often filled with wit and social commentary, provide depth and layers, inviting repeated listens.
However, as with any seminal work, there are criticisms. Some purists felt that Men At Work's sound was too polished or commercial, potentially overshadowing the rawer aspects of rock. Yet, it's this very accessibility that enabled "Business As Usual" to break barriers and reach a diverse audience.
The cultural impact of the album was significant. Beyond its chart-topping success, "Business As Usual" played a role in introducing Australian rock to a broader audience. The band's distinctive sound, combining elements familiar to both Western and global listeners, made them ambassadors of a sort, showcasing the rich musical landscape of their homeland.
In conclusion, "Business As Usual" stands as a testament to the timeless appeal of well-crafted pop-rock. Men At Work managed to encapsulate the zeitgeist of the early '80s while creating songs that remain fresh and engaging even today. The album is a vibrant fusion of melodies, insightful lyrics, and tight musicianship, solidifying its place as one of the essential listens of the era.