32 years ago, in February 1988, the band Underworld released their debut album, an LP which bears virtually no sonic resemblance to the material that brought them their greatest success…not that there’s anything wrong with that. In fact, Underneath The Radar is a fascinating piece of work, one which was recorded in a single live session. This was startling information to learn at the time, and it’s still pretty startling now, especially when you consider how much the material on the album sounds like Depeche Mode, Camouflage, Red Flag, or any number of other synth-centric groups of the era. But it’s true, and Underworld proved it was true by repeating the stunt live, which is pretty cool. Upon seeing those points of musical comparison, those of you who’ve heard Underworld’s later material but have never ventured back this far in their catalogue are probably now realizing what we meant when we said that this doesn’t sound anything like the material that turned them into commercial powerhouses. But in 1988, Underneath The Radar sounded just fine, even earning Underworld their first appearance on the Billboard 200 (at #139) and their first appearance on the Hot 100 (the title track hit #74).
Ripped from the original CD release to one hit wonder FLAC
Underworld; Underneath The Radar
1. Glory! Glory!
2. Call Me No.1
3. Rubber Ball (Space Kitchen)
4. Show Some Emotion
5. Underneath The Radar
6. Miracle Party
7. I Need A Doctor
8. Bright White Flame
9. Pray
10. The God Song
Excellent post! Underworld MK1 has long been a favorite of mine... takes me back to my young teenage years. Underneath The Radar was a favorite tune we'd always request at school dances.
ReplyDeleteSince then, I've always followed Underworld (and gone through hot/cool stages with listening to them). The album Barking was a trip when that came out. There are songs on there (and I'd swear some keyboard samples) that seem to go right back to 1989. Diamond Jigsaw comes to mind.
OK... I know what will be spinning on my record player tonight.
Thanks again!
Jared
That’s a great comment Jared, thanks for sharing
DeleteThe first Underworld I bought was a 'dubnobasswithmyheadman' cassette. It knocked me out, and is still my favourite Underworld recording. I was so impressed that I immediately bought 'Underneath The Radar' (cassette again) and was so disappointed that I don't think I've listened to it since. But because I no longer have a cassette player I can now give it another chance. Many thanks!
ReplyDeleteBrian
I hope you're enjoying Radar now Brian
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