The Only Ones were a British rock band that emerged in the late 1970s, leaving an indelible mark on the post-punk and alternative rock scenes. Although they had a relatively short-lived career, the band’s music remains influential and cherished by fans and musicians alike.
Led by the enigmatic and charismatic Peter Perrett, The Only Ones released their self-titled debut album in 1978. The album featured their most iconic song, “Another Girl, Another Planet,” which is often regarded as one of the greatest rock songs ever recorded. The track’s infectious melody, catchy guitar riffs, and Perrett’s distinctive vocals epitomized the band’s sound.
The Only Ones’ music was characterized by a unique blend of punk energy, new wave experimentation, and rock ‘n’ roll sensibilities. Their songs often delved into themes of love, addiction, and existentialism, with Perrett’s lyrics and delivery adding a poetic and introspective dimension to their music.
While “Another Girl, Another Planet” remains their most recognizable song, the band’s catalog is filled with gems like “No Peace for the Wicked,” “The Beast,” and “The Whole of the Law.” These songs showcased the band’s musical versatility and songwriting prowess.
Despite their critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase, The Only Ones’ commercial success was relatively modest during their active years. Internal tensions and substance abuse issues took a toll on the band, leading to their eventual breakup in the early 1980s.
Despite their limited output, The Only Ones’ influence can be heard in the music of numerous bands that followed, from alternative rock to indie and punk. Their unique blend of genres and Perrett’s distinct lyrical style continue to inspire musicians and fans who appreciate their pioneering contributions to rock music.
In retrospect, The Only Ones are celebrated for their brief but impactful musical legacy, leaving behind a collection of timeless songs that continue to resonate with those who appreciate their distinctive sound and the lyrical genius of Peter Perrett.
1. “Another Girl, Another Planet”
“Another Girl, Another Planet” is the defining track of The Only Ones’ career and a timeless classic in the annals of rock music. Released as a single in 1978 and featured on their self-titled debut album, the song epitomizes the band’s unique blend of punk, new wave, and rock ‘n’ roll.
The lyrics of “Another Girl, Another Planet” are a poetic expression of longing and addiction, with cryptic references to interstellar travel. Peter Perrett’s distinctive vocals convey a sense of yearning and a desire to escape, while the catchy guitar riffs and energetic rhythm create an irresistible sonic backdrop.
Musically, the song is celebrated for its infectious melody and the way it effortlessly straddles the line between punk and pop. The jangly guitar work by John Perry and the driving rhythm section provided by Alan Mair and Mike Kellie add depth and urgency to the track.
“Another Girl, Another Planet” has become an anthem of sorts, resonating with audiences of various generations. Its enduring popularity is evidenced by its frequent inclusion in films, television shows, and commercials, as well as its regular presence on radio playlists.
The song’s universal themes of love, longing, and escapism have made it a relatable and timeless piece of music that continues to captivate listeners and inspire artists across genres.
2. “The Whole of the Law”
“The Whole of the Law” is a standout track from The Only Ones’ eponymous debut album, released in 1978. The song showcases the band’s distinctive sound, characterized by Peter Perrett’s poetic lyrics and the band’s adept blend of punk and rock elements.
Lyrically, “The Whole of the Law” delves into themes of love, desire, and the complexities of human relationships. Perrett’s introspective and often enigmatic lyrics add depth and intrigue to the song, inviting listeners to contemplate its meaning.
Musically, the track features a compelling arrangement with John Perry’s melodic guitar work taking center stage. The interplay between Perry’s guitar and Perrett’s vocals creates a captivating dynamic, while the rhythm section maintains a solid groove throughout.
“The Whole of the Law” is notable for its emotive delivery, with Perrett’s vocals conveying a sense of vulnerability and passion. The song’s catchy chorus and memorable melody contribute to its enduring appeal.
As one of the lesser-known gems in The Only Ones’ catalog, “The Whole of the Law” showcases the band’s songwriting prowess and their ability to craft music that is both introspective and musically engaging. It stands as a testament to the band’s status as pioneers of the post-punk and alternative rock movements.
3. “No Peace for the Wicked”
“No Peace for the Wicked” is a compelling track by The Only Ones, featured on their self-titled debut album released in 1978. The song embodies the band’s signature sound, characterized by a unique fusion of punk rock, new wave, and a touch of psychedelia.
Lyrically, “No Peace for the Wicked” explores themes of restlessness and the relentless pursuit of excitement and adventure. Peter Perrett’s poetic lyrics convey a sense of yearning and a refusal to settle for a mundane existence.
Musically, the track is defined by its distinctive guitar work, with John Perry delivering a melodic and memorable riff. The rhythm section, provided by Alan Mair on bass and Mike Kellie on drums, creates a solid foundation that propels the song forward.
The song’s chorus is catchy and anthemic, with Perrett’s vocals exuding a sense of urgency and longing. The combination of introspective lyrics and infectious melody makes “No Peace for the Wicked” a standout in The Only Ones’ repertoire.
Despite not achieving the same level of commercial success as some of their contemporaries, The Only Ones’ music has endured over the years, and “No Peace for the Wicked” remains a beloved track among fans and critics alike. Its blend of thoughtful lyrics and infectious rock energy continues to resonate with listeners who appreciate the band’s unique brand of rock ‘n’ roll.
4. “Out There in the Night”
“Out There in the Night” is a haunting and atmospheric track by The Only Ones, featured on their debut album released in 1978. The song stands out as a testament to the band’s ability to create a mood that is both eerie and captivating.
Lyrically, “Out There in the Night” delves into themes of solitude and isolation. Peter Perrett’s introspective lyrics paint a vivid picture of a desolate nighttime landscape, where the narrator grapples with loneliness and introspection.
Musically, the track is characterized by its ethereal and somber guitar work, with John Perry’s haunting melodies creating a sense of otherworldliness. Perrett’s vocals convey a sense of vulnerability and introspection, perfectly complementing the song’s melancholic atmosphere.
The song’s minimalistic arrangement allows for a sense of spaciousness, emphasizing the isolation and solitude described in the lyrics. The haunting guitar riffs and evocative instrumentation create an immersive sonic experience.
“Out There in the Night” is a departure from the band’s more upbeat and rock-oriented tracks, showcasing their versatility as musicians and songwriters. It serves as a poignant and atmospheric moment on the album, offering a glimpse into the band’s ability to evoke deep emotions through their music.
5. “The Beast”
“The Beast” is a powerful and dynamic track by The Only Ones, featured on their debut album released in 1978. The song is characterized by its raw energy and showcases the band’s prowess as a rock ‘n’ roll force to be reckoned with.
Lyrically, “The Beast” delves into themes of desire and attraction, with Peter Perrett’s lyrics evoking a sense of primal instincts and passion. The song’s narrator grapples with the allure of the “beast” and the irresistible pull of temptation.
Musically, the track is defined by its driving rhythm and gritty guitar work. John Perry’s powerful riffs and Alan Mair’s pulsating bassline create a sense of urgency and excitement, while Mike Kellie’s drumming provides a solid foundation for the song’s energetic groove.
“The Beast” is celebrated for its electrifying guitar solos and Perrett’s emotive vocals, which convey a sense of lust and longing. The song’s catchy chorus and memorable melody make it a standout track on the album.
As one of the more intense and raucous songs in The Only Ones’ catalog, “The Beast” exemplifies the band’s ability to deliver high-octane rock ‘n’ roll with an edge. It’s a track that captures the essence of raw passion and serves as a reminder of the band’s contribution to the punk and post-punk movements.
6. “In Betweens”
“In Betweens” is a melancholic and introspective track by The Only Ones, featured on their self-titled debut album released in 1978. The song showcases the band’s ability to convey complex emotions through their music.
Lyrically, “In Betweens” explores themes of uncertainty and ambiguity in a relationship. Peter Perrett’s introspective lyrics touch on the challenges of navigating the gray areas of love and longing, where emotions are not always clear-cut.
Musically, the track features a melodic and introspective guitar riff, with John Perry’s emotive playing setting the tone for the song’s contemplative atmosphere. Perrett’s vocals are heartfelt and introspective, adding depth to the song’s emotional resonance.
The song’s arrangement is marked by its subtlety and restraint, allowing the lyrics and melodies to take center stage. “In Betweens” creates a sense of vulnerability and introspection that draws the listener into its emotional landscape.
“In Betweens” is a testament to The Only Ones’ ability to balance rock ‘n’ roll energy with emotional depth. It’s a song that invites reflection and contemplation, making it a poignant and memorable addition to the band’s repertoire.
7. “Miles from Nowhere”
“Miles from Nowhere” is a contemplative and introspective track by The Only Ones, featured on their self-titled debut album released in 1978. The song stands out for its melancholic and poetic lyrics that delve into themes of isolation and the search for meaning.
Lyrically, “Miles from Nowhere” paints a vivid picture of a desolate and empty landscape, both physical and emotional. Peter Perrett’s introspective lyrics convey a sense of loneliness and longing as the narrator grapples with the vastness of the world around them.
Musically, the track features a haunting and atmospheric guitar riff, with John Perry’s emotive playing adding depth to the song’s emotional resonance. Perrett’s vocals are filled with yearning and introspection, creating a sense of intimacy with the listener.
The song’s arrangement is marked by its spaciousness and minimalistic approach, allowing the lyrics and melodies to take center stage. “Miles from Nowhere” creates a sense of solitude and contemplation that draws the listener into its somber landscape.
As one of the more introspective and melancholic songs in The Only Ones’ catalog, “Miles from Nowhere” showcases the band’s ability to convey complex emotions through their music. It’s a song that invites introspection and reflection, making it a poignant and evocative addition to their body of work.
8. “Why Don’t You Kill Yourself?”
“Why Don’t You Kill Yourself?” is a provocative and emotionally charged track by The Only Ones, featured on their self-titled debut album released in 1978. The song stands out for its raw intensity and confrontational lyrics.
Lyrically, “Why Don’t You Kill Yourself?” explores themes of despair and self-destructive tendencies. Peter Perrett’s lyrics are delivered with a sense of urgency and frustration, addressing a subject matter that is both dark and emotionally charged.
Musically, the track features a powerful and driving rhythm, with John Perry’s guitar work delivering a sense of urgency and intensity. Perrett’s vocals are filled with raw emotion, conveying a sense of anger and desperation.
The song’s arrangement is marked by its energy and intensity, making it a standout track on the album. “Why Don’t You Kill Yourself?” captures a sense of emotional turmoil and serves as a cathartic release of pent-up emotions.
As a song that pushes the boundaries of conventional rock lyrics, “Why Don’t You Kill Yourself?” is both provocative and impactful. It stands as a testament to The Only Ones’ willingness to tackle challenging and emotionally charged subjects in their music.
9. “Me and My Shadow”
“Me and My Shadow” is a reflective and introspective track by The Only Ones, featured on their self-titled debut album released in 1978. The song stands out for its somber and emotive lyrics.
Lyrically, “Me and My Shadow” delves into themes of self-examination and introspection. Peter Perrett’s poetic lyrics convey a sense of introspection and contemplation as the narrator grapples with their inner demons and insecurities.
Musically, the track features a melodic and introspective guitar riff, with John Perry’s emotive playing adding depth to the song’s emotional resonance. Perrett’s vocals are heartfelt and introspective, creating a sense of vulnerability and intimacy.
The song’s arrangement is marked by its subtlety and restraint, allowing the lyrics and melodies to take center stage. “Me and My Shadow” creates a sense of introspection and self-reflection that draws the listener into its emotional landscape.
As a contemplative and emotionally resonant song, “Me and My Shadow” showcases The Only Ones’ ability to convey complex emotions through their music. It’s a song that invites introspection and self-examination, making it a poignant and thought-provoking addition to their body of work.
10. “Flaming Torch”
“Flaming Torch” is a dynamic and emotionally charged track by The Only Ones, featured on their self-titled debut album released in 1978. The song stands out for its energetic and gritty sound.
Lyrically, “Flaming Torch” explores themes of desire and passion, with Peter Perrett’s lyrics conveying a sense of longing and intensity. The song’s narrator grapples with the burning desire and the intoxicating allure of a romantic interest.
Musically, the track features a driving rhythm and gritty guitar work, with John Perry’s powerful riffs and Alan Mair’s pulsating bassline creating a sense of urgency and excitement. Perrett’s vocals are delivered with raw emotion, capturing the intensity of the lyrics.
The song’s arrangement is marked by its energy and intensity, making it a standout track on the album. “Flaming Torch” is characterized by its electrifying guitar solos and powerful vocal delivery, creating a sense of passion and urgency.
As a song that captures the intensity of desire and longing, “Flaming Torch” exemplifies The Only Ones’ ability to infuse their music with raw emotion and energy. It’s a track that resonates with listeners who appreciate the band’s ability to convey complex emotions through their music.
David Morrison is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
