80’s at 8 Rockturnal with Scotty B Tuesday 04-25-23
Echo and the Bunnymen rock group playing on London rooftops. 6th July 1987. (Photo by Arron/Mirrorpix/Getty Images)
The first track in tonight’s 80’s at 8 was “Lips Like Sugar” by Echo and the Bunnymen. “Lips Like Sugar” is a masterclass in New Wave aesthetics. The band’s use of atmospheric guitars, lush synths, and dynamic drumming create a captivating sonic landscape that is both catchy and mysterious. The song’s chorus is instantly recognizable, with its memorable melody and sing-along lyrics, making it a standout track in the New Wave genre. One of the song’s most memorable features is the mesmerizing guitar riff played by Will Sergeant, which is both melodic and hypnotic, adding to the song’s dreamy and otherworldly quality. The band’s tight arrangement and McCulloch’s powerful vocals create a perfect synergy, making “Lips Like Sugar” a true masterpiece in their discography. Since its release, “Lips Like Sugar” has been featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials, and its popularity has endured over the years. Its timeless appeal has made it a fan favorite and a staple in Echo and the Bunnymen’s live performances, often serving as a show-stopping moment that gets the crowd singing along. Its enduring popularity and timeless appeal make “Lips Like Sugar” a true classic in the world of New Wave music, and a testament to Echo and the Bunnymen’s talent as musicians and songwriters. You can watch the music video for “Lips Like Sugar ” by Echo and the Bunnymen below:
The second track in tonight’s 80’s at 8 was “Love Will Tear Us Apart” by Joy Division. Joy Division’s “Love Will Tear Us Apart” is a haunting and iconic post-punk anthem that has left an indelible mark on music history. Released as a single in 1980, shortly before lead singer Ian Curtis’ tragic death, the song has since become one of the most recognizable and revered tracks in alternative music. Ian Curtis’s distinctive baritone vocals, characterized by their emotional intensity and vulnerability, lend a sense of urgency and authenticity to the song. His delivery is both haunting and captivating, drawing listeners into the emotional landscape of the song and creating a deep connection with the audience.
The music of “Love Will Tear Us Apart” is equally mesmerizing, with Peter Hook’s distinctive bassline serving as the backbone of the track. Hook’s bassline is instantly recognizable and has become one of the most iconic basslines in music history, driving the song forward and giving it a sense of urgency and movement.
The combination of Bernard Sumner’s atmospheric guitar work, Stephen Morris’ precise drumming, and Curtis’ emotive vocals create a unique and mesmerizing sound that is often associated with the signature “post-punk” genre. The band’s innovative use of synthesizers and drum machines also adds to the song’s distinctive and experimental sound, pushing the boundaries of what was considered conventional at the time.
Despite its dark and introspective lyrics, “Love Will Tear Us Apart” became a commercial success, reaching the top 20 in the UK charts. Its impact has continued to grow over the years, with the song being recognized as a seminal track that has influenced countless artists in the alternative and post-punk genres. You can watch the music video for “Love Will Tear Us Apart” by Joy Division below:
