Graham Parker – Vertigo

Graham Parker – Vertigo

A comprehensive retrospective of one of Britain’s most acclaimed and emotionally charged songwriters, Vertigo traces Graham Parker’s rise from the gritty pub rock scene of the 1970s through his sharp, soulful fusion of rock, rhythm & blues, and new wave energy. Spanning studio classics, live recordings, and key fan favourites, the compilation captures Parker at his most urgent, witty, and passionate.

Backed for much of his early career by The Rumour, Parker developed a distinctive sound that blended raw rock intensity with sharp lyrical observation and deep soul influences. Tracks such as Howlin’ Wind, Heat Treatment, and Discovering Japan showcase his energetic songwriting and razor-sharp delivery, while more reflective songs like You Can’t Be Too Strong reveal a thoughtful and emotionally complex lyricist.

The collection also highlights Parker’s exceptional live performances, with fiery renditions of White Honey, Soul Shoes, and covers including Chain Of Fools and You Can’t Hurry Love demonstrating the loose, high-energy chemistry of his touring band. Across both discs, the set moves effortlessly between pub rock grit, soulful balladry, and punchy late-70s new wave.

Packed with standout tracks from Parker’s most celebrated era, Vertigo serves as both an excellent introduction and a rewarding deep dive into one of Britain’s most respected cult rock artists.

Tracklist:

Disc One

1. Between You And Me
2. I’m Gonna Use It Now
3. You’ve Got To Be Kidding
4. Howlin’ Wind
5. Back To Schooldays
6. White Honey (Live)
7. That’s What They All Say (Live)
8. Back Door Love (Live)
9. Back To Schooldays (Live)
10. Silly Thing (Live)
11. Chain Of Fools (Live)
12. Don’t Ask Me Questions (Live)
13. You Can’t Hurry Love (Live)
14. Soul Shoes (Live)
15. Kansas City (Live)
16. Heat Treatment
17. Hotel Chambermaid
18. Black Honey
19. Fool’s Gold
20. Hold Back The Night
21. (Let Me Get) Sweet On You

Disc Two

1. The New York Shuffle
2. Watch The Moon Come Down
3. The Raid
4. Lady Doctor
5. I’m Gonna Tear Your Playhouse Down
6. The Heat In Harlem
7. Gypsy Blood
8. Discovering Japan
9. Local Girls
10. Nobody Hurts You
11. You Can’t Be Too Strong
12. Passion Is No Ordinary Word
13. Saturday Nite Is Dead
14. Love Gets You Twisted
15. Protection
16. Waiting For The UFOs
17. Don’t Get Excited
18. Mercury Poisoning
19. I Want You Back (Alive)