Record Roulette: Soul Mining
Today I’m introducing Record Roulette, where I choose a record from my collection at random and share it with my friends here at UNHNGD. The hope is that you’ll find something new to listen to, rediscover an album you forgot about, or fall in love with a new artist.
This week’s record is Soul Mining by The The, the creative project of artist Matt Johnson. Originally released in 1983, Soul Mining is a new wave/synth-pop album that garnered commercial success with UK singles “Uncertain Smile” and “Perfect”, which ultimately established Johnson as a staple in the new wave genre. You might recall “This is the Day” from the rooftop scene in the iconic 90’s film Empire Records, an upbeat track that makes life feel like a John Hughes movie.
Source: last.fm
It’s oddly ominous and upbeat at the same time; a classic example of what ‘80s music has to offer. With only eight tracks, the record runs for a total of 45 minutes- a condensed list of long-play masterpieces (most songs clocking in around five minutes). My personal favorite is “The Twilight Hour”, which tells the story of a codependent relationship and disguises heartbreaking lyrics with an optimistic, techno-pop melody. Think of Soul Mining as The Smiths’ The Queen is Dead’s funkier, synth-heavy older cousin.
If you’re feeling frisky this Sunday afternoon, give Soul Mining a listen, you won’t regret it.
Listen on Spotify, Youtube, Apple Music, or Soundcloud