The Associates

The 1980s have often been referred to as the golden age for pop music. There was something brilliant about the kind of song that could become a hit single back then. Songs like ‘Ghosts’ by Japan, ‘O Superman’ by Laurie Anderson and any of those early  Adam & The Ants hits would stand out on the radio today. ‘Party Fears Two’ and ‘Club Country’ by The Associates were two of the most adventurous and unusual singles that made the top 20 in 1982.

The Associates (or simply Associates) were a Scottish post-punk and new wave band, formed in Dundee in 1979 by singer Billy MacKenzie and guitarist Alan Rankine. The group first gained recognition after releasing an unauthorized cover of David Bowie's "Boys Keep Swinging" as their debut single in 1979, which landed them a contract with Fiction Records. They followed with their debut album The Affectionate Punch in 1980 and the singles collection Fourth Drawer Down in 1981, both to critical praise. They achieved commercial success in 1982 with the UK Top 10 album Sulk and UK Top 20 singles "Party Fears Two" and "Club Country", during which time they were associated with the New Pop movement. 

Todays special double 12” from The Associates was originally ripped by DjPaulT. Presented here in MP3 @ 320kbps

The Associates; Club Country 12”

A.     Club Country (12” Mix)

B1.  A.G. It’s You Again

B2.  Ulcragyceptimol

The Associates; Party Fears Two 12”

A.     Party Fears Two (Extended Mix)

B.     It’s Better This Way

Find the Affectionate Punch diving for cover here