The Stranglers “Rattus Norvegicus” released on this date, April 15th, 1977. A&M Records. Promotional copy with white label, pre-PMRC warning label “This album has not been edited for family listening. The tune “Ugly” contains explicit language. Beware!” Fair enough.  Content – they drop the F-bomb – along with threats of smacking you in the face, the dark vocal delivery and late 70′s timing put the Stranglers squarely in the punk category. That said, the oft-slow tempo tracks (i.e. “Princess of the Streets”) and the Doors-like keyboards (”Sometimes”) places the Stranglers altogether out of the traditional punk label and into a rock/power pop column.

The single “Peaches” charted in the UK at #8, helping to propel the LP to #4 on the album charts. My personal favorite track is “(Get A) Grip (On Yourself)” which has a propellant beat, swirling keyboards, saxophone and an infectious chorus…”but the money’s no good, just get a grip on yourself,” a little glimpse into the British New Wave movement of the early 80′s.