“The Only Ones” is a British rock band formed in London in 1976. They were known for their distinctive blend of punk rock and power pop influences, creating a sound that was both melodic and raw.
The band’s lineup consisted of Peter Perrett (vocals, guitar), John Perry (guitar), Alan Mair (bass), and Mike Kellie (drums). Their music often explored themes of love, addiction, and existentialism, with Peter Perrett’s introspective lyrics and distinctive vocal delivery being notable features of their sound.
The Only Ones gained popularity in the late 1970s and early 1980s with songs like “Another Girl, Another Planet,” which became their most well-known and enduring track. Released in 1978, “Another Girl, Another Planet” is praised for its infectious guitar riff, catchy melody, and Perrett’s wistful yet urgent vocals.
Despite their relatively short-lived career and limited commercial success at the time, The Only Ones garnered a cult following and influenced subsequent generations of alternative rock and indie bands. Their music continues to be appreciated for its blend of punk energy with pop sensibilities, cementing their legacy as one of the seminal bands of the punk and new wave era.
1. Miles from Nowhere
“Miles from Nowhere” is a song by Cat Stevens (now known as Yusuf Islam) from his 1970 album *Tea for the Tillerman*. It is a reflective and introspective song that captures Stevens’ exploration of life’s journey and the search for meaning and purpose.
Lyrically, “Miles from Nowhere” portrays a sense of wanderlust and a desire for escape from the constraints of everyday life. The lyrics depict a journey through nature, seeking solitude and freedom while contemplating existential questions. Stevens’ poetic lyrics and gentle vocals evoke a sense of introspection and longing, resonating with listeners on a deeply personal level.
Musically, “Miles from Nowhere” is characterized by its acoustic guitar-driven melody and Stevens’ soulful voice. The song’s stripped-down arrangement allows the lyrics to take center stage, emphasizing the song’s introspective and contemplative themes.
“Tea for the Tillerman” marked a significant album in Cat Stevens’ career, showcasing his evolution as a singer-songwriter and earning critical acclaim for its introspective lyrics and melodic compositions. “Miles from Nowhere” remains a poignant and timeless track that continues to resonate with audiences, reflecting Stevens’ ability to capture the essence of the human experience through his music.
2. The Whole of the Law
“The Whole of the Law” is a song by The Only Ones, featured on their 1978 self-titled debut album. It’s a post-punk track known for its raw energy, infectious melody, and distinctive vocals by Peter Perrett. The song’s lyrics reflect themes of desire, obsession, and the intensity of romantic relationships, delivered with a sense of urgency and emotion. Musically, “The Whole of the Law” combines elements of punk rock with a melodic sensibility, showcasing The Only Ones’ unique sound and Perrett’s songwriting prowess. The song remains a standout in the band’s discography, admired for its raw emotion and memorable hooks.
3. Another Girl, Another Planet
“Another Girl, Another Planet” is a song by The Only Ones, released as a single in 1978 and later included on their self-titled debut album. It’s considered one of the band’s most iconic tracks and a classic of the punk and new wave genres. The song features catchy guitar riffs and a driving rhythm, complemented by Peter Perrett’s distinctive vocals. Lyrically, “Another Girl, Another Planet” explores themes of love, longing, and escapism, with its title evoking a sense of searching for something new and exciting. The song’s infectious energy and memorable chorus have made it a favorite among fans and critics alike, solidifying its status as a timeless classic.
4. City of Fun
“City of Fun” is a song by the British post-punk band The Only Ones. It was released as a single in 1979 and later included on their second studio album, *Even Serpents Shine* (1979). The song is characterized by its energetic guitar work, driven rhythm, and Peter Perrett’s distinctive vocals.
Lyrically, “City of Fun” explores themes of urban life, nightlife, and the allure of excitement and escapism. The lyrics depict a cityscape filled with nightlife, parties, and the pursuit of pleasure, reflecting both the exhilaration and the darker aspects of urban existence.
Musically, the song blends elements of punk rock with a melodic sensibility, showcasing The Only Ones’ ability to combine raw energy with a catchy, memorable melody. The band’s tight instrumentation and Perrett’s emotive vocals contribute to the song’s dynamic and engaging sound.
“City of Fun” is regarded as a standout track in The Only Ones’ discography, known for its infectious energy and insightful lyrics about urban culture. It captures the band’s unique blend of punk attitude with sophisticated songwriting, solidifying their reputation as pioneers of the post-punk era.
5. Out There in the Night
“Out There in the Night” is a song by The Only Ones, featured on their second studio album “Even Serpents Shine,” released in 1979. The track showcases the band’s blend of punk rock and new wave influences, characterized by its raw energy and introspective lyrics. Peter Perrett’s vocals convey a sense of mystery and introspection as the song explores themes of loneliness, longing, and the search for meaning in the night. Musically, “Out There in the Night” features driving guitar work and a dynamic rhythm section, capturing the atmospheric and emotional depth that defines The Only Ones’ music.
6. From Here to Eternity
“From Here to Eternity” is a song by The Only Ones from their debut self-titled album, released in 1978. The track is known for its energetic punk rock style infused with elements of new wave and power pop, characteristic of the band’s early sound.
Lyrically, “From Here to Eternity” explores themes of passion, desire, and the fleeting nature of time. Peter Perrett’s introspective lyrics delve into the intensity of human emotions and relationships, reflecting the band’s introspective and poetic approach to songwriting.
Musically, the song features driving guitars, a catchy melody, and Perrett’s distinctive vocals that convey both urgency and vulnerability. The Only Ones’ blend of punk energy with melodic sensibility sets “From Here to Eternity” apart as a standout track on their debut album, showcasing their ability to combine raw intensity with thoughtful songwriting.
Overall, “From Here to Eternity” exemplifies The Only Ones’ early sound and lyrical depth, contributing to their reputation as influential figures in the punk and new wave music scenes of the late 1970s and early 1980s.
7. Programme
“Programme” by The Only Ones is a song from their 1980 album “Baby’s Got a Gun.” The track reflects the band’s eclectic mix of punk, new wave, and alternative rock influences. Peter Perrett’s vocals convey introspective and often cynical lyrics, exploring themes such as personal identity and societal critique. Musically, “Programme” features a blend of energetic guitar riffs, a driving rhythm section, and atmospheric elements that characterize The Only Ones’ distinctive sound. The song is noted for its depth and complexity, showcasing the band’s evolution and experimentation with different musical styles during the early 1980s.
8. Why Don’t You Kill Yourself
“Why Don’t You Kill Yourself?” is a song by The Only Ones from their self-titled debut album, released in 1978. The track is characterized by its raw, punk rock energy and provocative lyrics, typical of the band’s confrontational style. Peter Perrett’s vocals convey a sense of disillusionment and defiance, addressing themes of frustration and alienation. Musically, the song features aggressive guitar work and a driving rhythm, capturing the intensity and rebellious spirit of punk music. “Why Don’t You Kill Yourself?” is emblematic of The Only Ones’ willingness to challenge societal norms and provoke thought through their music.
9. Me and My Shadow
“Me and My Shadow” is a song by The Only Ones from their second studio album, *Even Serpents Shine*, released in 1979. The album featured a departure from the punk rock sound of their debut towards a more polished and diverse musical approach.
Lyrically, “Me and My Shadow” explores themes of introspection and personal reflection, with Peter Perrett’s introspective lyrics delving into themes of loneliness and self-awareness. The song’s melancholic tone is underscored by its haunting melody and the band’s trademark blend of rock and post-punk influences.
Musically, The Only Ones showcase their musical versatility with layered guitars, a driving rhythm section, and Perrett’s emotive vocals. “Me and My Shadow” stands out as a poignant and introspective track on an album known for its exploration of darker themes and more sophisticated songwriting.
Overall, “Me and My Shadow” reflects The Only Ones’ evolution as a band and their ability to capture complex emotions through their music, solidifying their reputation as influential figures in the post-punk movement.
10. Language Problem
“Language Problem” is a song by The Only Ones, released on their 1979 album “Even Serpents Shine.” It’s a notable track that showcases the band’s punk rock and new wave influences. The song features energetic guitar riffs, a driving rhythm, and Peter Perrett’s distinctive vocals. Lyrically, “Language Problem” explores themes of communication breakdown and interpersonal conflict, reflecting the band’s introspective and sometimes ironic approach to songwriting. The track is recognized for its catchy hooks and raw energy, making it a standout in The Only Ones’ discography.