The CD’s already in the drawer (it’s on the same disc as Another Music In A Different Kitchen) so let’s push on with Love Bites, Buzzcocks' second album of 1978. I was much more familiar with this one, from a tape someone did me (although listening now, I’m still expecting the record to jump on Sixteen Again)
There’s a low key opening and extended intro on Real World, a fine start before the classic Ever Fallen In Love, still sounding as fresh as 45 years ago. Operator’s Manual and Just Lust rock along, the first half ending with the wonderful Sixteen Again.
The second half opens with the short instrumental, Walking Distance, a rare Steve Garvey composition, before Steve Diggle’s Love Is Lies, then Pete Shelley takes back the songwriting reins for two great songs, Nothing Left and ESP, the album wrapping up with instrumental Late For The Train.
It feels a much more mature and fuller sound than their first album, and always welcome to these ears.
4* - Pete and the boys find their sound with a great set of songs.
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