Primitive Man (1982)
1982’s Primitive Man marks a significant evolution in the sound of Icehouse. While still drawing on the post-punk and new wave elements that were present in their debut record, Primitive Man displays a greater emphasis on atmospheric, synth-driven pop. Icehouse achieves back to back NSA awards on their first two records. You can bet your ass that even the likes of Tame Impala were definitely influenced by this Australian smash hit.
The opening track, Great Southern Land, sets the tone for the album with its sweeping synth melodies and evocative lyrics that celebrate the vastness and beauty of the Australian landscape. The song's soaring chorus and eerie sound make it an enduring classic of the band's catalog and one of my all time favorites.
This album includes many great songs from Uniform, with its pulsing synth bassline and propulsive drumbeat, and Street Cafe, a moody and atmospheric synth pop track that never gets old. Hey Little Girl features a catchy synth riff and a sing-along chorus that showcases lead singer Iva Davies' pop sensibilities. The instrumental Glam even feels like an 80s new wave love letter to Gary Glitter’s Rock N’ Roll, pt 2. It’s the same vibe, but if you don’t agree then keep that to yourself. You don’t want people thinking you have poor listening skills.
Throughout the record, the band's use of synthesizers are particularly noteworthy, with each track featuring a variety of synth textures and layers. The production on the album is polished and slick, with a focus on creating a rich sonic palette that fills the listener's ears. The album's minimalist and atmospheric production are a warm and refreshing welcome to the bands discography.
Primitive Man is a strong and musically diverse album that showcases Icehouse's evolving sound and musical abilities. The band's use of synths and atmospheric production create a rich sonic landscape that remains engaging and immersive throughout the record’s runtime. If you're a fan of 80s synth-pop and new wave or again just good music in general, then Primitive Man is a great album to sink your teeth into.
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Highlight Song:
Great Southern Land
Street Cafe
Hey, Little Girl
Trojan Blue
Goodnight Mr Matthews (USA Re-record)
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Own it, Stream it, Forget about it?
Primitive Man is a No Skip Album through and through and all NSAs deserve to be owned. It is a great looking album cover, and it is a great sounding album all together. You would be a righteous person for owning this album. Don’t wait up, go out and get it!
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Overall Rating:
4.5 Stars
