Album Info
| Artist: | Ups & Downs |
| Album: | Sleepless |
| Released: | Australia, Aug 1986 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Sleepless | |
| Written-By - J. Flade | ||
| A2 | The Living Kind | |
| Written-By - D. Atkinson | ||
| A3 | Heart | |
| Written-By - P. Shaw | ||
| A4 | Alarming Situations | |
| B1 | Solitary Man | |
| Written-By - Neil Diamond | ||
| B2 | Where Is The Sun? | |
| B3 | Travelling |
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
"Ups & Downs - Sleepless" is an intriguing album that captures the essence of its title through a blend of emotive lyrics and diverse musical styles. Released in 1985, this album by the Australian band Ups & Downs showcases their ability to weave together elements of post-punk and new wave, creating a sound that is both nostalgic and refreshingly unique.
The album opens with "The Living Kind," a track that immediately sets the tone with its jangly guitars and introspective lyrics. This song, along with others on the album, highlights the band's knack for crafting catchy melodies that linger long after the music stops. The production quality, typical of the mid-80s, adds a layer of authenticity to the listening experience, transporting the audience back to a time when alternative rock was beginning to gain mainstream traction.
One of the standout tracks on "Sleepless" is "In the Shadows," which features a driving bassline and haunting vocals that perfectly encapsulate the feeling of restlessness suggested by the album's title. The song's atmospheric quality is enhanced by the use of reverb and echo, creating a soundscape that feels both expansive and intimate. This track, in particular, has been praised for its lyrical depth and emotional resonance, making it a favorite among fans and critics alike.
Another notable song is "The Perfect Crime," which combines upbeat rhythms with darker lyrical themes, a juxtaposition that is a hallmark of the band's style. The energetic guitar riffs and dynamic drumming propel the song forward, while the lyrics explore themes of love, loss, and longing. This contrast between sound and subject matter is a recurring motif throughout the album, adding layers of complexity to the listening experience.
Critically, "Ups & Downs - Sleepless" received positive reviews upon its release, with many praising the band's ability to blend different musical influences into a cohesive and engaging album. The band's sound has often been compared to other contemporaries in the post-punk and new wave scenes, such as The Church and The Go-Betweens, yet Ups & Downs managed to carve out their own niche with this release.
While "Sleepless" did not achieve significant commercial success, it has maintained a cult following over the years, appreciated by those who seek out hidden gems from the 1980s alternative music scene. The album's enduring appeal lies in its timeless quality and the emotional honesty conveyed through its songs.
In terms of cultural significance, "Sleepless" represents a period in Australian music history when local bands were beginning to gain international recognition. Ups & Downs, along with their peers, contributed to the rich tapestry of sounds that defined the era, influencing future generations of musicians both in Australia and abroad.
Overall, "Ups & Downs - Sleepless" is a testament to the band's artistic vision and musical prowess. It captures the spirit of a time when music was undergoing significant transformation, and it remains a poignant reminder of the power of song to express the complexities of the human experience. For those who appreciate the nuances of post-punk and new wave, this album is a must-listen, offering a glimpse into the creative landscape of the 1980s and the enduring legacy of Ups & Downs.