The Jam-Sound Affects (1980)

As the 1970s drew to a close, many artists emerged in the UK who, influenced by 1960s sounds such as British mod, American garage rock, new-generation synthesizers, rock and roll, and street rock (punk rock), proposed a style that would soon be called new wave. Among a multitude of bands, about a hundred stood out, such as The Jam, who considered The Who one of their biggest influences, with a simple musical approach and a basic lineup of guitar, bass, and drums. Led by guitarist Paul Weller, they released several albums in the late 1970s, including the seminal "In The City" (1977), and the still somewhat inconsistent and immature "This Is The Modern World" (1977) and "All Mod Cons" (1978). The more developed "Setting Sons" (1979) showcased greater creativity and quality in its compositions, as well as improved instrumental refinement. This musical evolution would be rewarded with their fifth album, "Sound Affects" (1980), where both Weller's lyrics and the trio's instrumental growth are truly remarkable. Tracks like the powerful "Set the House Ablaze", the pessimistic "That's Entertainment", the rhythmic "Pretty Green", the ominous "Scrape Away", and the frenetic "But I'm Different Now" would bring The Jam the recognition and popularity they deserved, creating a magnificent album and the crowning achievement of the British trio.