Description
The Adicts – Sound Of Music – Vinyl Record
Sound of Music, released in November 1982, is the second studio album by British punk band The Adicts. Known for their theatrical stage presence, Clockwork Orange-inspired aesthetic, and upbeat punk sound, The Adicts used this album to refine and expand their signature blend of catchy melodies, driving rhythms, and a mischievous sense of fun. The record was released via Razor Records, following their well-received 1981 debut Songs of Praise.
While the title Sound of Music cheekily references the classic Rodgers & Hammerstein musical, the album has little to do with Broadway or Julie Andrews—instead, it’s pure punk rock escapism, with a heavy emphasis on energy, irony, and entertainment. The Adicts stood out in the UK punk scene not only because of their clownish “Droog” outfits (white clothes, bowler hats, and face paint), but because they embraced melody and showmanship in a genre often defined by aggression and minimalism.
Sound of Music continues the band’s evolution from raw punk toward something more playful, anthemic, and theatrical. Tracks like “How Sad,” “Chinese Takeaway,” and “Joker in the Pack” exemplify their knack for writing hook-heavy punk songs with a carnival-like spirit. There’s a sense of glam rock flair and vaudevillian humor running throughout, bolstered by chants, sing-along choruses, and infectious guitar riffs. Yet songs like “My Baby Got Run Over by a Steamroller” and “Disco” still retain their punk edge and absurdist wit.
The album covers a variety of themes—from personal disillusionment to social satire—always with a tongue-in-cheek delivery. The band avoids the overtly political tone of many of their contemporaries, instead leaning into escapism and eccentricity. Frontman Monkey (Keith Warren) delivers his vocals with a theatrical snarl, often sounding like a punk ringmaster orchestrating controlled chaos.
Tracklist highlights include:
“How Sad” – A punchy opener with classic Adicts energy and sarcasm.
“Chinese Takeaway” – A quirky, fan-favorite singalong that exemplifies their sense of humor.
“Joker in the Pack” – Perhaps their most iconic track, combining punk with waltz rhythms and circus motifs.
“Shake Rattle Bang Your Head” – A glam-punk stomper that leans into theatrical showmanship.
The album also features a hidden depth of arrangement, with occasional keyboards, vocal layering, and rhythmic shifts that set it apart from more straightforward punk releases of the time.
In the context of early ’80s UK punk, Sound of Music was a bold and refreshing entry. While bands like Crass and Discharge were delivering raw political fury, The Adicts carved out their own identity with a more joyous, irreverent, and performance-driven approach. The album helped solidify their cult status, particularly in the U.S., where their theatricality and upbeat sound made them favorites in the burgeoning punk and alternative scenes.
Sound of Music is a vital document of fun-first punk rock, showcasing The Adicts at their most accessible and exuberant. It’s an album that refuses to take itself too seriously while still delivering tight musicianship, unforgettable hooks, and a sense of chaotic joy that few punk bands could match.
Brand new, never played and still sealed in the factory plastic
Track Listing
How Sad
4321
Chinese Takeaway
Johnny Was A Soldier
Disco
Eyes In The Back Of Your Head
Joker In The Pack
Lullaby
My Baby Got Run Over By A Steamroller
A Man’s Gotta Do
Let’s Go
Easy Way Out
Shake Rattle, Bang Your Head
