The Only Ones were a British rock band formed in 1976, known for their unique blend of punk rock and power pop. The band consisted of singer Peter Perrett, guitarist John Perry, bassist Alan Mair, and drummer Mike Kellie. They gained recognition with their 1978 hit single “Another Girl, Another Planet,” which became one of their signature songs and is praised for its catchy melody and introspective lyrics. The Only Ones’ music often featured themes of romance, existentialism, and disillusionment, and they are celebrated for their influential role in the late 1970s and early 1980s rock scene.
1. Miles from Nowhere
“Miles from Nowhere” is a song by the British rock band The Only Ones, released in 1978 as part of their self-titled debut album. Written by lead singer Peter Perrett, the track features the band’s signature blend of punk and power pop with a melancholic yet catchy melody. The song’s lyrics reflect themes of distance, longing, and introspection, encapsulating Perrett’s distinctive lyrical style. With its emotive vocal delivery and memorable guitar riffs, “Miles from Nowhere” showcases The Only Ones’ ability to merge raw energy with emotional depth, making it a notable piece in their discography.
2. The Whole of the Law
“The Whole of the Law” is a track by The Only Ones, featured on their 1978 self-titled debut album. Written by Peter Perrett, the song combines the band’s punk rock sensibilities with a melodic, introspective approach. The lyrics delve into themes of love, existential reflection, and personal struggle, showcasing Perrett’s distinctive storytelling. The song is known for its emotional depth and the band’s ability to infuse punk rock with a sense of melancholy and vulnerability. “The Whole of the Law” is a good example of The Only Ones’ unique sound and their ability to blend raw energy with thoughtful lyrics.
3. Another Girl, Another Planet
“Another Girl, Another Planet” is a standout track by The Only Ones, released in 1978 on their debut album. Written by lead singer Peter Perrett, the song is renowned for its catchy melody and poignant lyrics. It features a blend of punk rock and power pop, with an infectious guitar riff and an upbeat tempo. The song’s lyrics reflect themes of romantic escapism and existential longing, capturing a sense of alienation and desire. “Another Girl, Another Planet” became one of The Only Ones’ most popular and enduring songs, widely praised for its emotional depth and memorable hooks.
4. City of Fun
“City of Fun” is a song by The Only Ones, released in 1979 as part of their self-titled debut album. The track features a blend of punk rock and new wave influences, characteristic of the band’s eclectic style. With its catchy melody and energetic rhythm, “City of Fun” captures the vibrant, rebellious spirit of the late 1970s music scene.
The lyrics, often seen as a commentary on urban life and escapism, reflect the band’s knack for combining insightful observations with an infectious musical approach. “City of Fun” stands out as a testament to The Only Ones’ unique sound and their contribution to the punk and new wave genres.
5. Out There in the Night
“Out There in the Night” is a song by The Only Ones, featured on their 1979 debut album, *The Only Ones*. The track showcases the band’s blend of punk rock and new wave, with its energetic tempo and engaging guitar work. The lyrics explore themes of urban life and existential reflection, capturing the raw, emotive style that defines The Only Ones’ music.
The song’s distinctive sound, marked by Peter Perrett’s evocative vocals and the band’s dynamic instrumentation, highlights their ability to combine punk’s raw edge with melodic sensibilities. “Out There in the Night” is emblematic of The Only Ones’ unique approach to rock music during the late 1970s.
6. From Here to Eternity
“From Here to Eternity” is a song by The Only Ones, released in 1979 as part of their self-titled debut album. Known for its blend of punk rock and new wave influences, the track features Peter Perrett’s distinctive vocals and a driving rhythm that captures the band’s signature sound.
The song’s lyrics explore themes of love, longing, and existential reflection, delivered with a sense of urgency and emotional depth. “From Here to Eternity” stands out for its memorable melody and introspective lyrical content, showcasing The Only Ones’ ability to blend punk’s rawness with melodic and thoughtful elements.
7. Programme
“Programme” is a song by The Only Ones, released in 1978 as part of their self-titled debut album. The track features Peter Perrett’s distinctive vocal style and the band’s blend of punk rock with melodic elements. “Programme” combines introspective lyrics with a driving rhythm, showcasing The Only Ones’ ability to merge raw, energetic rock with reflective, emotional content. The song’s themes often explore personal and societal issues, embodying the band’s unique approach to punk and power pop. “Programme” is notable for its compelling guitar work and the lyrical depth typical of The Only Ones’ music.
8. Why Don’t You Kill Yourself
“Why Don’t You Kill Yourself” is a song by The Only Ones, featured on their 1979 self-titled debut album. Known for its provocative and controversial title, the track features the band’s signature blend of punk rock and new wave. The song’s raw, edgy sound is characterized by Peter Perrett’s distinctive vocal style and the band’s energetic instrumentation.
The lyrics, while provocative, delve into themes of disillusionment and existential angst, reflecting the band’s often dark and introspective approach to songwriting. “Why Don’t You Kill Yourself” is emblematic of The Only Ones’ willingness to tackle challenging and controversial subjects with their unique musical style.
9. Me and My Shadow
“Me and My Shadow” is a song performed by The Only Ones, included in their 1978 self-titled debut album. Written by Peter Perrett, the track features a blend of punk rock and power pop, with a catchy melody and introspective lyrics. The song’s narrative often delves into themes of isolation and self-reflection, with Perrett’s distinctive vocal delivery adding a layer of emotional depth. “Me and My Shadow” exemplifies The Only Ones’ ability to infuse their punk roots with melodic hooks and thoughtful storytelling, making it a notable piece in their discography.
10. Language Problem
“Language Problem” is a track by The Only Ones from their 1979 debut album, *The Only Ones*. The song is characterized by its blend of punk rock and new wave influences, with an emphasis on Peter Perrett’s distinctive vocals and the band’s energetic instrumentation.
The lyrics of “Language Problem” reflect themes of communication and alienation, exploring the difficulties of understanding and connecting with others. The song’s raw, emotive delivery and thought-provoking content are representative of The Only Ones’ ability to combine punk’s intensity with introspective and lyrical depth. It stands out as an example of their innovative approach to music during the late 1970s.