The Cars

by

The Cars

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The Cars formed in Boston circa 1976 and debuted in 1978 with this eponymously titled release. Straddling the line between rock and new wave, the group managed to maintain rock credibility while also racking up some major pop hits. "Just What I Needed" peaked at #27 and has become a rock radio staple. The single is my favorite song of all time - it so perfectly encapsulates the late 70s new wave scene. And it's catchy as hell - I have to turn up the radio whenever I hear it.

The second single, "My Best Friend's Girl," went to #35; the song starts with handclaps before a major synth line kicks into gear. Finally, "Good Times Roll" just missed the Top 40, peaking at #41. However, not a single track is filler - any of them could have been a hit.

I was a little too young in 1978 to become a Cars fan, although I caught them in their pop heyday, when "Drive" was a major hit. I've picked up the rest of their catalog in the last few years, and I've been blown away by the quality of their music, especially "The Cars." Propulsive synths combine seamlessly with the rock-edged guitars to form one of the most distinctive sounds ever. This CD really demonstrates why the Cars became stars - it still sounds completely amazing.

"The Cars" sold very well when first released and was certified platinum in late 1978. Since then, the CD has continued to win fans - with certification for sales of 6 million by 1995. Every time I hear The Killers or other current retro new wave bands, I want to throw on this CD and hear how it was done right the first time around! Most highly recommended.