Buzzcocks “In A Different Kitchen” released on this day March 10, 1978, their first full-length LP release. This is original UK vinyl, issued with a black cardboard inner sleeve and color photo on front cover. Subsequent pressings substituted a black and white photo. Though generally categorized as punk owing to their infamous debut performance opening for the Sex Pistols second-ever concert in 1976 as well as singles like “Orgasm Addict,” their sound is more hard-hitting power pop, with more sophistication in both rhythm and melody. Vocally Pete Shelley is more snotty than snarly and the production value of their recorded releases shows more polish than most contemporary punk releases. That said, the attitude of the Buzzcocks lends more than a nod to punk.

Highlights of “In A Different Kitchen” include “Fast Cars,” “I Don’t Mind” (which charted at #55 in the UK) and “Autonomy.” We saw the Buzzcocks perform at the Rave in Milwaukee, WI in 1999 while they were on tour supporting “Modern” (which I’ve been unable to secure on vinyl). They showcased their power pop/punk roots while incorporating both rap and electronica but the highlight of the evening was their classics, which of course included “Autonomy” and “Orgasm Addict.”