Modern Romance - "Modern Romance" Album Review
Alright, let’s get into this. Modern Romance’s self-titled debut album from 1980 is one of those records that punches you in the face with its weird mix of rock grit and pop gloss. It’s not perfect—hell, it’s kinda messy—but damn if it doesn’t stick to your brain like gum on a hot summer sidewalk. Produced by Nigel Gray (yeah, the guy who worked magic for The Police), this UK-born New Wave gem comes out swinging hard, even though it sometimes trips over its own shoelaces.
First up, the title track “Modern Romance.” Oh man, this song hits different. Right off the bat, you’re hit with these sharp guitar riffs that feel like they were ripped straight outta some late-night club scene. Then there’s the bassline—it just slaps. Like, seriously, slap-happy levels of groove. You can tell these guys weren’t trying to reinvent the wheel here; they just wanted to make something catchy as hell. And guess what? They nailed it. This tune stays lodged in your head for days, whether you want it to or not. It’s got attitude, swagger, and enough hooks to keep you coming back for more. Not bad for a bunch of Brits messing around with New Wave vibes.
Then there’s “I Believe In Me,” which feels like the emotional gut-punch of the record. If “Modern Romance” is all about flash and fun, this track slows things down and gets real. The vocals have this raw edge, almost like the singer's pouring his heart out after one too many pints at the pub. There’s no frills here—just honest lyrics backed by moody synths and a steady beat that builds tension without ever letting go. It’s the kind of song that makes you stop whatever you’re doing and think, “Damn, I’ve been there.” Even now, years later, hearing this track gives me chills.
Sure, the production has its rough edges. Some tracks sound dated, and yeah, maybe the band didn’t quite nail every note. But screw perfection—this album’s got soul. These dudes weren’t afraid to experiment, blend genres, and take risks. That’s rare these days, especially when everyone’s chasing TikTok trends instead of making actual music.
Here’s the kicker: listening to Modern Romance feels like stepping into a time machine where everything was simpler yet somehow more chaotic. Back then, people made albums because they had something to say, not because they wanted viral fame. Weirdly enough, that’s why this record still holds up today. So crank it loud, embrace the flaws, and remember what music used to be before algorithms took over. Now excuse me while I go listen to “Modern Romance” again… for the hundredth time.
