Album Info
| Artist: | Mondo Rock |
| Album: | Mondo Rock Chemistry |
| Released: | Australia, 1981 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Chemistry | 4:29 |
| Written-By - Eric McCusker | ||
| A2 | Trash | 3:15 |
| Written-By - R. Wilson, S. Gyllies | ||
| A3 | Popular View | 3:37 |
| Written-By - Eric McCusker | ||
| A4 | State Of The Heart | 4:18 |
| Written-By - Eric McCusker | ||
| A5 | Moves | 3:51 |
| Written-By - Eric McCusker | ||
| B1 | Step Up Step Out | 3:26 |
| Written-By - Eric McCusker | ||
| B2 | Summer Of 81 | 3:56 |
| Written-By - Eric McCusker | ||
| B3 | Cool World | 3:33 |
| Written-By - Ross Wilson | ||
| B4 | Mondo Sexo | 2:59 |
| Written-By - Ross Wilson | ||
| B5 | We're No Angels | 5:34 |
| Written-By - Ross Wilson |
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 $125 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 carboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- We almost always ship your 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
Following the promise and verve of their previous releases, Mondo Rock's "Chemistry," released in 1981, is a sonic alchemy of powerful ballads, infectious hooks, and that distinct Aussie rock touch. As the album unfolds, it's evident that Ross Wilson and his ensemble were not just about fleeting radio hits; they aimed to leave a lasting imprint on the Australian rock scene.
"Chemistry" opens with "State of the Heart," an introspective ballad that showcases Wilson's keen ear for melody and lyrical depth. With its tender instrumentation and emotive lyrics, the track sets the tone for an album that's as much about introspection as it is about anthemic rock. It's a poignant beginning, affirming the band's prowess in crafting songs that resonate on a deeply emotional level.
"Cool World" is arguably the standout track, reflecting the zeitgeist of the early '80s. With its rhythmic guitar strums, breezy vibes, and Wilson's soulful delivery, the song captures the essence of the world in transition, a bridge between the rebellious 70s and the neon-lit 80s.
While the band manages to touch on themes ranging from young love ("Baby Wants to Rock") to existential contemplation ("Mona Lisa"), they never stray too far from their core sound. This consistency in sound is both the album's strength and its Achilles heel. On the one hand, "Chemistry" offers a cohesive listening experience, but on the other, it occasionally runs the risk of feeling too homogenous.
Yet, any semblance of monotony is shattered with tracks like "We're No Angels." The song dives into a slightly edgier territory, reflecting the raw, unfettered spirit of rock 'n roll. With its driving rhythms and assertive lyrics, it stands in stark contrast to the more mellifluous offerings on the album.
Another feather in "Chemistry's" cap is its impeccable production. The instrumentation is crisp, with each element—from the roaring guitars to the pulsating drums—clearly discernible. It's a testament to the meticulous care the band and their production team invested in the album, ensuring that each track was not just a song but an experience.
Comparisons to international rock giants are inevitable, given the era "Chemistry" hails from. And while Mondo Rock does wear its influences on its sleeves, it manages to carve out its unique identity. There's an undeniable Australian flavor, a sun-soaked warmth that permeates even the album's more somber moments.
In retrospect, "Chemistry" serves as a compelling snapshot of early '80s Australian rock. It's a melange of sounds and sentiments, oscillating between the exuberance of youth and the wisdom of experience. While not every track is a home run, the album's highs more than compensate for its occasional lows.
Closing thoughts: Mondo Rock's "Chemistry" is a testament to the transformative power of music. It's an album that, much like a chemical reaction, elicits a range of emotions, from nostalgia to joy, sorrow to hope. It's a journey through time, a reminder of the enduring spirit of rock 'n roll, and an affirmation of Mondo Rock's indelible mark on the genre.
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