Stranglers
Rattus Norvegicus

THE REVIEW

1977 is the year of the explosion of English punk: the Sex Pistols release the historic "Nevermind The Bullocks," the Clash publish their first masterpiece, and the Stranglers record "Rattus Norvegicus."
The Stranglers are not a completely punk group, nor are they new-wave as some critics claim. Their genre is completely original. This album and the subsequent "No More Heroes" are the only contributions from the group to the movement founded by Rotten and company.

"Rattus Norvegicus" is not a record for punk lovers, but for those who love pure rock! Hugh Cornwell's distorted guitar, Jean-Jacques Burnel's metallic bass, Jet Black's thundering drums, and Dave Greenfield's breathtaking keyboards are the recipe for a simple album, yet still innovative and in some ways much more mature compared to some of the contemporary works.
"Sometimes", "London Lady", and "Princess Of The Street" are classic examples of good punk music, where the keyboards wonderfully accompany Cornwell's (or Burnel's) voice. The tension rises with the bass riff of "Peaches" and the epic "Hanging Around" until it explodes in "(Get A) Grip (On Yourself)", where keyboards, voice, bass, and drums mix in a musical orgasm. The other tracks are equally valid and further demonstrate the great skill of the musicians (especially Greenfield).

"Rattus Norvegicus" and the rest of the Stranglers' production (at least up until "La Folie") are rock gems that should never be underestimated or forgotten. Cornwell, Burnel, Greenfield, and Black were one of the greatest bands of the late '70s who unfortunately were forgotten and only recently rediscovered.

In the CD edition, some of their other famous tracks have been added (including "Go Buddy Go") along with a booklet containing lyrics and photos.