Released in January 1981 on Mercury Records (catalogue number TEAR 2), "Reward" is the definitive, breakthrough hit for British post-punk band The Teardrop Explodes, peaking at number 6 on the UK Singles Chart. The original 7" vinyl single features the driving, brass-infused A-side "Reward" alongside the atmospheric B-side "Strange House in the Snow." Highly collectible today, original 1981 UK pressings circulate in both textured picture sleeves and standard Phonogram company sleeves, with physical label variations ranging from molded silver injection plastic to traditional paper labels.
"Reward" by The Teardrop Explodes remains a foundational masterpiece of early-1980s neo-psychedelia and post-punk, perfectly capturing the frantic, creative energy of the Liverpool music scene. Driven by a legendary, blistering horn section and Alan Gill's propulsive bassline, the track explodes with a relentless tempo that instantly commands the listener's attention. Frontman Julian Cope delivers a brilliant vocal performance, effortlessly balancing manic urgency with an incredibly infectious pop sensibility. The song's brilliant juxtaposition of upbeat, danceable rhythms with surreal, introspective lyricism created a blueprint for alternative pop that sounds just as vibrant and innovative today as it did upon its 1981 release.
The original 7" vinyl release brilliantly showcases the band's sonic versatility, contrasting the anthemic A-side with the atmospheric B-side, "Strange House in the Snow." While "Reward" is a masterclass in high-energy, brass-heavy pop perfection, the flip side plunges into a darker, more experimental landscape filled with moody synthesizers and haunting melodies. This stark contrast makes the 45 RPM single a cohesive piece of art rather than just a commercial vehicle for a hit song. Decades later, the record stands as a definitive high-water mark for the post-punk era, successfully proving that avant-garde artistic sensibilities could be seamlessly translated into a massive mainstream chart success.
Ripped to MP3
A: "Reward" (2:53)
B: "Strange House In The Snow"
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