The very early 1980s found the first wave of punk rock giving over to post-punk and new wave, while the earliest signs of hardcore could be heard. Synth pop and early college rock meanwhile filled out the softer, more intriguing edges of the scene.
Looking back at the 13 albums that made the cut for the best 1,000 albums ever, you’ll quickly note my bias for new wave and pop during this era, but it’s also gratifying to see incredible albums across other genres that were released in 1981.
And oh yes: on August 1st of that year, a new television station called MTV launched.
1) Devo – New Traditionalists (#119 of best 1,000 albums ever)
We’re through being cool.
2) The Go-Go’s – Beauty and the Beat (#341)
Can you hear them? They talk about us, telling lies – well, that’s no surprise.
3) Duran Duran – Duran Duran (#350)
Look now, look all around, there’s no sign of life. Voices, another sound, can you hear me now?
4) Soft Cell – Non-Stop Erotic Cabaret (#525)
Sometimes I feel I’ve got to run away. I’ve got to get away from the pain you drive into the heart of me.
5) Black Flag – Damaged(#620)
We are tired of your excuse. Try to stop us – it’s no use!
6) Men at Work – Business as Usual(#810)
Who can it be now?
7) Rush – Moving Pictures (#831)
Though his mind is not for rent, don’t put him down as arrogant.
8) The Human League – Dare!(#910)
Don’t you want me to tell you?
9) The J. Geils Band – Freeze Frame(#913)
Test strip, proof sheet love is hard to find.
10) Human Switchboard – Who’s Landing in My Hangar?(#961)
To see her lies are the same from the front or behind.
11) Mission of Burma – Signals, Calls and Marches (#987)
This is not a photograph.
12) The Sugarhill Gang – 8th Wonder (#997)
Jump on it.
13) Agent Orange – Living in Darkness(#1,000)
Bloodstains, speed kills, fast cars, cheap thrills.