This album "PUBLIC IMAGE LTD - Album" Album is the fifth studio album by English rock band Public Image Ltd, released on 3 February 1986. It features John Lydon backed by a group of musicians assembled by producer Bill Laswell, including Steve Vai, Ryuichi Sakamoto, Tony Williams and Ginger Baker.
In 1986, Public Image Ltd. (PiL), the ever-evolving musical project of John Lydon, unleashed their fifth studio album, simply titled "Album." This release marked a bold departure from their earlier post-punk sound, venturing into uncharted territories of experimentation and collaboration.
Historical Context and Musical Exploration
By the mid-1980s, the musical landscape had shifted dramatically. PiL, never content to remain stagnant, embraced this change, incorporating a wider range of influences and pushing the boundaries of their sonic palette. "Album" reflects this period of musical exploration, showcasing a band unafraid to challenge expectations.
The album was produced by the renowned bassist and producer Bill Laswell, known for his work in diverse genres like funk, jazz, and world music. Laswell's influence is evident throughout the record, contributing to its eclectic and experimental nature.
Genre-Bending and Controversies
PiL had always been a band that defied easy categorization, and "Album" further solidified this reputation. The album fused elements of post-punk, funk, dub, and even avant-garde noise, resulting in a sonic landscape that was both challenging and rewarding.
The opening track, "FFF," sets the tone with its abrasive guitar riffs, propulsive rhythm section, and Lydon's signature vocal delivery. Other tracks like "Rise" and "Home" delve into more atmospheric and introspective territories, showcasing the band's versatility.
Guest Musicians: Steve Vai and Ginger Baker
One of the most notable aspects of "Album" is the inclusion of two legendary guest musicians: guitarist Steve Vai and drummer Ginger Baker. Vai, known for his virtuosic playing and work with Frank Zappa and David Lee Roth, contributes his signature sound to several tracks, adding a layer of technical brilliance to the album's sonic tapestry.
Baker, a founding member of Cream and a pioneer of rock drumming, brings his powerful and improvisational style to the track "Ease." His dynamic drumming, coupled with Lydon's spoken-word vocals, creates a mesmerizing and hypnotic soundscape.
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Matrix/Stamper Codes:
This Side: V2366 A-1 Masterdisk/HW V 2366 A-10-1-*-1-1
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Music Genre: Alternative Rock |
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Album Production Information: The album: "PUBLIC IMAGE LTD - Album" was produced by: Bill Laswell and John Lydon |
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Record Label & Catalognr: Virgin Records V 2366 |
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Media Format: 12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram |
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Year & Country: 1986 Made in UK / Englanf |
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: PUBLIC IMAGE LTD - Album |
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Complete Track-listing of the album "PUBLIC IMAGE LTD - Album" |
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The detailed tracklist of this record "PUBLIC IMAGE LTD - Album" is:
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Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone )
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In the tumultuous wake of the Sex Pistols' implosion, a phoenix arose in the form of Public Image Ltd. (PiL). Spearheaded by the enigmatic John Lydon, formerly known as Johnny Rotten, PiL became a sonic laboratory where punk's raw energy was transmuted into experimental soundscapes.
Lydon's transformation from punk iconoclast to post-punk visionary was a sight to behold. Shedding the sneering persona of Johnny Rotten, he embraced a more introspective and artistic approach. PiL became his canvas for exploring complex themes of alienation, social commentary, and personal introspection.
The band's early years were marked by a raw and abrasive sound, characterized by dub-infused bass lines, angular guitars, and Lydon's distinctive vocal style. Albums like "First Issue" (1978) and "Metal Box" (1979) established PiL as pioneers of the post-punk movement, their music a sonic assault on the senses.
Over time, PiL's sound evolved, incorporating elements of funk, dance, and even pop. Albums like "Flowers of Romance" (1981), "Live in Tokyo" (1983), and "This Is What You Want... This Is What You Get" (1984) showcased their willingness to experiment and push boundaries. The live album "Live in Tokyo" captured the raw energy and intensity of their concerts, while the 1984 Australian Tour EP showcased their versatility with a mix of studio tracks and live recordings.
In 1986, PiL released the aptly titled "Album," a bold departure from their earlier work. Featuring collaborations with renowned musicians like Steve Vai and Ginger Baker, the album blended post-punk, funk, dub, and avant-garde elements into a unique sonic tapestry.
Despite these sonic shifts, Lydon's acerbic wit and social commentary remained a constant thread throughout their music.
PiL's live shows were legendary for their unpredictable and confrontational nature. Lydon, ever the provocateur, would often engage in verbal sparring with the audience, challenging their preconceived notions and pushing them out of their comfort zones. The band's improvisational approach, with extended jams and experimental soundscapes, further fueled the chaotic energy of their performances.
Despite their reputation for volatility, PiL's live shows were also a testament to their artistic integrity and commitment to pushing the boundaries of musical expression. Each performance was a unique experience, a sonic adventure that challenged audiences to think, feel, and question the world around them.
In 1986, Public Image Ltd. (PiL), the ever-evolving musical project of John Lydon, unleashed their fifth studio album, simply titled "Album." This release marked a bold departure from their earlier post-punk sound
Learn more
Public Image Ltd.'s (PiL) "Australian Tour Souvenir" 12" maxi-single, released in 1984, serves as a fascinating artifact of the band's musical exploration during a pivotal period. Emerging from the ashes of the Sex Pistols
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Public Image Ltd.'s (PiL) "Live in Tokyo" double LP, released in 1983, captures the raw energy and sonic experimentation of the band during a pivotal moment in their career. Following their departure from major label Virgin Records,
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