Expanded Overview
Released in June 1979, Get the Knack is the debut album by The Knack and became a breakout success upon its release. Known for its energetic power-pop sound, the album blends catchy hooks with a rock edge that captured the spirit of late 70s pop rock. Featuring iconic hits like “My Sharona” and “Good Girls Don’t,” Get the Knack dominated the charts, with “My Sharona” becoming a number-one single and a defining track of the era. The album’s production, led by Mike Chapman, emphasized a clean, punchy sound that amplified its youthful, rebellious themes.
Critical Reception
Upon release, Get the Knack received widespread acclaim, with critics noting its infectious energy and memorable melodies. It quickly rose to commercial success, achieving multi-platinum status and becoming one of 1979’s best-selling albums. While celebrated for its sound, the album also stirred controversy due to its provocative lyrics, which reflected youthful themes with a raw, unfiltered edge.
Career Context
Get the Knack was The Knack’s debut, introducing their signature sound and style to the world. The album’s success set the stage for their follow-up, …But the Little Girls Understand (1980), and established The Knack as a prominent force in the power-pop genre. Although the band faced challenges with sustaining momentum in later years, Get the Knack remains a definitive work in their discography.
Standout Tracks
- My Sharona – The album’s lead single, famous for its infectious guitar riff and catchy chorus.
- Good Girls Don’t – A track with catchy melodies and a slightly rebellious edge.
- Frustrated – A high-energy song that highlights the album’s youthful themes.
Overall Impact
Get the Knack solidified The Knack’s position in rock history as a pioneer of late 70s power pop. With its infectious songs and polished production, the album left a lasting influence on pop and rock, and it continues to be celebrated as a classic of the genre.
Discogs Link
Get the Knack – The Knack on Discogs
Similars
- Cheap Trick – Cheap Trick at Budokan
Another band known for its power-pop edge and high-energy performances. - The Cars – The Cars
A similar blend of rock and pop hooks that defined the late 70s sound. - Blondie – Parallel Lines
Featuring catchy hooks and polished production that parallels Get the Knack. - The Romantics – In Heat
Known for its catchy rock anthems and similar power-pop style.
Vinyl Edition Details – Get the Knack by The Knack
The vinyl edition of Get the Knack, Discogs release code [r12785052], is an original 1979 pressing, renowned for its punchy sound and high-energy production. Pressed at Capitol Records’ Los Angeles plant, this version is notable for its “Wally” mastering by Wally Traugott, a mark of quality highly regarded among collectors. The album is packaged with a standard sleeve, featuring the iconic band photo cover.
Key details about the vinyl pressing:
- Label: Capitol Records
- Format: LP, Album, Los Angeles Pressing
- Release Year: 1979
- Country: USA
Tracklist:
Side A:
- 1. Let Me Out
- 2. Your Number or Your Name
- 3. Oh Tara
- 4. (She’s So) Selfish
- 5. Maybe Tonight
- 6. Good Girls Don’t
Side B:
- 1. My Sharona
- 2. Heartbeat
- 3. Siamese Twins (The Monkey and Me)
- 4. Lucinda
- 5. That’s What Little Girls Do
- 6. Frustrated
Credits:
- Vocals, Rhythm Guitar: Doug Fieger
- Lead Guitar: Berton Averre
- Bass: Prescott Niles
- Drums: Bruce Gary
- Producer: Mike Chapman
Notable Features:
- Mastered by Wally Traugott, a respected name in vinyl mastering.
- Pressed at Capitol Records’ Los Angeles plant for high audio fidelity.
- Includes the iconic cover art featuring The Knack in a black-and-white band photo.