The Only Ones were a British rock band formed in London in 1976. Led by the charismatic frontman Peter Perrett, the band garnered critical acclaim for their unique blend of punk, new wave, and alternative rock. Their music was characterized by Perrett’s distinctive vocals, poetic lyrics, and the band’s melodic yet edgy sound.
Despite achieving only moderate commercial success during their initial run, The Only Ones are widely regarded as one of the most influential bands of the late 1970s and early 1980s. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1978, is considered a classic of the era, featuring standout tracks like “Another Girl, Another Planet,” which has since become an anthem of the punk and new wave movements.
The Only Ones disbanded in 1982 but have since gained a cult following, with their music continuing to inspire generations of musicians across various genres. Their influence can be heard in the work of artists ranging from alternative rock to indie and post-punk.
Despite their relatively short-lived career, The Only Ones left an indelible mark on the music world, with their innovative sound and timeless songs ensuring their enduring legacy in rock music history.
1. Another Girl, Another
“Another Girl, Another Planet” is a timeless and influential track by The Only Ones, a British rock band formed in the mid-1970s. Released in 1978 on their eponymous debut album, the song is considered one of the band’s most iconic and enduring hits.
Written by the band’s frontman, Peter Perrett, “Another Girl, Another Planet” is characterized by its infectious melody, driving rhythm, and raw energy. The song’s lyrics explore themes of love, longing, and escapism, with Perrett’s evocative vocals conveying a sense of urgency and emotion.
Musically, “Another Girl, Another Planet” features a distinctive guitar riff, courtesy of guitarist John Perry, that immediately grabs the listener’s attention. The song’s dynamic shifts and catchy chorus make it a standout track on the album and a favorite among fans of alternative rock and power pop.
Despite achieving only modest commercial success upon its initial release, “Another Girl, Another Planet” has since gained a cult following and is widely regarded as one of the greatest rock songs of all time. Its timeless appeal and influence can be heard in the work of countless bands and artists across various genres, cementing its status as a classic of the punk and new wave movements.
2. Lovers of Today
“Lovers of Today” is a poignant and melodic track by The Only Ones, a British rock band formed in the mid-1970s. Released in 1978 on their eponymous debut album, the song exemplifies the band’s unique blend of punk, new wave, and alternative rock.
Written by the band’s frontman, Peter Perrett, “Lovers of Today” explores themes of love, longing, and the complexities of modern relationships. Perrett’s evocative lyrics and emotive vocal delivery convey a sense of vulnerability and introspection, reflecting on the fleeting nature of romance and the passage of time.
Musically, “Lovers of Today” features a haunting melody and lush instrumentation, with the interplay of guitars, bass, and drums creating a rich sonic tapestry. The song’s dynamic shifts and melodic hooks draw listeners in, while its raw energy and emotional depth resonate on a profound level.
Despite its relatively understated commercial success, “Lovers of Today” remains a standout track in The Only Ones’ discography, beloved by fans for its poignant lyrics, memorable melody, and timeless appeal. It stands as a testament to the band’s songwriting prowess and enduring influence on the alternative rock genre.
3. The Whole of the Law
“The Whole of the Law” is a song by the English rock band The Only Ones. It appears on their eponymous debut album, released in 1978. The Only Ones, fronted by singer-songwriter Peter Perrett, emerged from the late 1970s punk and new wave scene with a sound that blended elements of punk, power pop, and alternative rock.
“The Whole of the Law” is characterized by its infectious melody, jangly guitars, and Perrett’s distinctive vocal delivery. The lyrics explore themes of desire, temptation, and the consequences of indulgence, with lines like “I’ll obey the whole of the law / But there’s a key I need you to find.”
The song’s catchy hooks and driving rhythm helped it gain popularity among fans of the burgeoning punk and new wave movements. While The Only Ones never achieved mainstream success on the level of some of their contemporaries, “The Whole of the Law” remains a standout track in their catalog and a favorite among fans of alternative rock. Its timeless appeal and infectious energy have cemented its status as a cult classic in the punk and new wave genres.
4. Miles from Nowhere
“Miles from Nowhere” is a song by British singer-songwriter Cat Stevens (now known as Yusuf Islam). It appears on his album “Teaser and the Firecat,” released in 1970. The album marked a significant shift in Stevens’ musical style, transitioning from his earlier folk sound to a more introspective and spiritually-oriented approach.
“Miles from Nowhere” is a contemplative and introspective song that reflects Stevens’ search for meaning and purpose in life. The lyrics express a desire to escape the pressures and constraints of modern society and find solace in solitude and simplicity. Lines like “Miles from nowhere, not a soul in sight / Oh yeah, but it’s alright” convey a sense of peace and contentment in being disconnected from the hustle and bustle of the world.
Musically, “Miles from Nowhere” features Stevens’ gentle acoustic guitar accompanied by subtle orchestration, creating a tranquil and dreamy atmosphere. His soft, soothing vocals draw listeners into the song’s reflective mood, inviting them to join him on his journey of self-discovery and inner exploration.
“Miles from Nowhere” has become one of Cat Stevens’ most beloved and enduring songs, cherished for its poignant lyrics and ethereal melody. Its themes of simplicity, solitude, and spiritual awakening continue to resonate with audiences around the world, making it a timeless classic in the singer-songwriter genre.
5. Oh Lucinda (Love Becomes a Habit)
“Oh Lucinda (Love Becomes a Habit)” is a captivating track by The Only Ones, a British rock band known for their eclectic blend of punk, new wave, and alternative rock. Released in 1980 on their album “Even Serpents Shine,” the song showcases the band’s signature sound and lyrical prowess.
Written by the band’s frontman, Peter Perrett, “Oh Lucinda (Love Becomes a Habit)” delves into the complexities of love and addiction. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a tumultuous relationship characterized by passion, obsession, and dependency. Perrett’s evocative storytelling and emotive vocals capture the highs and lows of romantic entanglement, while the band’s dynamic instrumentation adds depth and texture to the narrative.
Musically, “Oh Lucinda (Love Becomes a Habit)” features a driving rhythm, infectious guitar riffs, and melodic hooks that draw listeners in from the opening bars. The interplay of guitars, bass, and drums creates a rich sonic landscape, while Perrett’s distinctive vocal delivery imbues the song with a sense of urgency and emotion.
Despite its relatively understated commercial success, “Oh Lucinda (Love Becomes a Habit)” remains a fan favorite and a standout track in The Only Ones’ repertoire. Its raw energy, introspective lyrics, and infectious melody continue to resonate with listeners, cementing its status as a classic of the alternative rock genre.
6. The Immortal Story
“The Immortal Story” is a short novel by the renowned Danish author Karen Blixen, also known by her pen name Isak Dinesen. It was first published in 1958. The story is set in the port city of Macao during the mid-19th century and revolves around the enigmatic character of Mr. Clay, a wealthy merchant who becomes obsessed with making a legendary tale, “The Immortal Story,” a reality.
The central narrative of “The Immortal Story” follows Mr. Clay’s endeavor to orchestrate a real-life enactment of the tale, employing a young sailor and a local prostitute to play the roles of the characters. Through his pursuit, Mr. Clay grapples with themes of mortality, desire, and the illusion of immortality that storytelling provides.
Blixen’s narrative weaves together elements of folklore, mythology, and existential philosophy, exploring the power dynamics between individuals and the narratives that shape their lives. The novella delves into questions of authenticity, manipulation, and the human longing for transcendence through storytelling.
“The Immortal Story” has been lauded for its rich symbolism, evocative prose, and penetrating insights into the human condition. It has been adapted into various forms, including a film directed by Orson Welles in 1968, which expanded upon Blixen’s original story while retaining its thematic depth and narrative intrigue.
7. Trouble in the World
“Trouble in the World” is a poignant and socially conscious track by The Only Ones, a British rock band known for their eclectic blend of punk, new wave, and alternative rock. Released in 1980 on their album “Even Serpents Shine,” the song reflects the band’s willingness to address broader issues beyond personal relationships.
Written by the band’s frontman, Peter Perrett, “Trouble in the World” explores themes of societal unrest, political turmoil, and the human condition. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world in crisis, with references to war, poverty, and injustice. Perrett’s emotive vocals and thought-provoking lyrics convey a sense of urgency and empathy, urging listeners to confront the challenges facing humanity.
Musically, “Trouble in the World” features a melodic yet driving rhythm, complemented by atmospheric guitar work and dynamic shifts in tempo. The band’s tight instrumentation and Perrett’s impassioned delivery create a sense of tension and unease, mirroring the song’s thematic content.
Despite its relatively understated commercial success, “Trouble in the World” stands as a testament to The Only Ones’ willingness to tackle weighty subject matter and their ability to craft compelling and thought-provoking music. Its timeless message and emotive power continue to resonate with listeners, reaffirming the band’s status as pioneers of the alternative rock genre.
8. Flaming Torch
“Flaming Torch” is a classic R&B song originally recorded by The Crests, an American doo-wop group, in 1959. The song was written by the group’s lead vocalist, Johnny Mastrangelo, also known as Johnny Maestro.
“Flaming Torch” is characterized by its smooth vocal harmonies, catchy melody, and romantic lyrics. The song tells the story of a person who compares their love for their partner to a flaming torch that burns brightly and passionately. The lyrics evoke images of eternal love and devotion, with lines like “My heart is just like a flaming torch for you.”
Musically, “Flaming Torch” features lush orchestration and a melodic arrangement typical of the doo-wop genre. The Crests’ soulful vocals, led by Johnny Maestro’s distinctive voice, add depth and emotion to the song, creating a timeless appeal that resonates with listeners.
“Flaming Torch” was a moderate success upon its release and has since become a classic in the doo-wop genre, cherished for its romantic sentiment and melodic charm. It remains a favorite among fans of 1950s music and has been covered by various artists over the years, cementing its status as a timeless love song.
9. Cast Iron Arm
“Cast Iron Arm” is a spirited and energetic rockabilly track by Peanuts Wilson, originally released in 1958. The song exemplifies the raw and infectious energy of the rockabilly genre, with its driving rhythm, twangy guitar licks, and lively vocal delivery.
Written by Billy Gray and Gene LaVerne, “Cast Iron Arm” tells the story of a tough and resilient protagonist with a seemingly indestructible arm. The lyrics celebrate the character’s strength and invincibility, highlighting his ability to overcome any obstacle in his path. With its catchy chorus and upbeat tempo, the song invites listeners to join in the fun and embrace the rebellious spirit of rock and roll.
“Cast Iron Arm” became a popular hit in the rockabilly scene of the late 1950s, earning acclaim for its infectious groove and memorable melody. The song’s enduring popularity has led to numerous cover versions by artists across different genres, cementing its status as a classic of the rockabilly genre.
With its timeless appeal and irrepressible energy, “Cast Iron Arm” continues to captivate audiences and inspire new generations of rock and roll enthusiasts, reaffirming its place in the pantheon of rockabilly classics.
10. Language Problem
“Language Problem” is a song by the English rock band The Only Ones. It appears on their second studio album, “Even Serpents Shine,” released in 1979. The Only Ones, fronted by singer-songwriter Peter Perrett, gained acclaim for their distinctive blend of punk rock, new wave, and power pop.
“Language Problem” is characterized by its catchy melody, jangly guitar riffs, and Peter Perrett’s distinctive vocals. The lyrics explore themes of communication breakdown and misinterpretation in relationships, with lines like “There’s a language problem here, I know it / It’s the only reason you’re walking away.”
Musically, “Language Problem” showcases The Only Ones’ eclectic style, blending elements of punk energy with melodic sensibilities. The song features tight musicianship and a dynamic arrangement, with John Perry’s guitar work standing out alongside Perrett’s emotive delivery.
While “Language Problem” did not achieve significant commercial success upon its release, it has since become a fan favorite and a staple of The Only Ones’ live performances. Its infectious energy and relatable lyrics continue to resonate with listeners, cementing its status as a classic in the punk and new wave genres.
Edward Tomlin 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.
