Classix Nouveaux - The End .. Or The Beginning 12''

Released in late 1982, the 12-inch single for "The End… Or The Beginning" stands as a polished, transitional marker in Classix Nouveaux's career, capturing the band as they shifted toward the more experimental synth-pop of their final album, Secret. Critics and fans generally praise the extended "Long Version" for its driving New Romantic energy and Sal Solo’s distinctive, theatrical vocals, which are bolstered by the atmospheric addition of new guitarist Jimi Sumen. While it lacked the massive commercial impact of their earlier hits like "Is It A Dream," the 12-inch is highly regarded by collectors for its iconic picture disc artwork and its ability to blend an "appealing pop hook" with the moody, electronic sophistication that defined the era's club scene.

"The End... Or The Beginning?" is a sophisticated example of Classix Nouveaux's evolution into more experimental synth-pop, released in October 1982. Critics often highlight it as a standout "New Romantic dance single" that showcased the band's ability to craft appealing pop hooks while embracing the era's moody, electronic sophistication. The track is particularly noted for Sal Solo’s theatrical, baritone delivery and the atmospheric guitar work of new member Jimi Sumen, which helped bridge the gap between their earlier guitar-heavy sound and the more innovative, rhythmic approach found on their final album, Secret. 

Collectors and fans highly value the 12-inch version for its extended "Long Version," which provides more room for the song's driving energy and synth layers to breathe. The physical release is also prized for its iconic picture disc artwork, featuring conceptual photography of the band behind a faux windowpane and a dramatic close-up of Sal Solo. Although it saw limited chart success compared to hits like "Is It A Dream?," the single remains a respected artifact of the Futurism and New Romantic movement, often described by modern reviewers as a high-quality, polished effort from the band's final peak.

Ripped to MP3

A: The End... Or The Beginning? (Long Version) – 5:48

B1: The End... Or The Beginning? (Short Version) – 3:09

B2: The End... Or The Beginning? (Instrumental Version) – 3:06