The Undertones – Hypnotised

The Undertones – Hypnotised

Released in April 1980, Hypnotised is the highly regarded second album from Derry's The Undertones, a band whose infectious combination of punk energy, melodic pop songwriting and youthful exuberance helped make them one of the most distinctive groups to emerge from the original British and Irish punk movement.

Following the success of their self-titled debut, the band faced the difficult challenge of producing a second record without losing the spontaneity and charm that had made them so popular. Produced by Roger Bechirian and recorded between Wisseloord Studios in the Netherlands and Eden Studios in London, Hypnotised demonstrates a more developed musical approach while retaining the directness, humour and irresistible melodies of their earlier work.

The album is packed with sharp guitar hooks, driving rhythms and Feargal Sharkey's instantly recognisable, expressive vocals. The Undertones had a particular gift for combining the urgency of punk with the melodic sensibility of classic pop, creating songs that were energetic, catchy and frequently infused with teenage humour, romantic frustration and everyday observations.

Among the standout tracks is 'My Perfect Cousin', one of the band's best-loved singles, a wonderfully infectious piece of guitar pop that reached number nine in the UK singles chart. 'Wednesday Week' is another highlight, showcasing their knack for bright, memorable melodies, while the title track, 'Hypnotised', and 'More Songs About Chocolate And Girls' capture the band's characteristic blend of youthful enthusiasm and sharp songwriting.

Elsewhere, 'See That Girl', 'Whizz Kids', 'The Way Girls Talk' and 'What's With Terry?' underline the strength of the album's songwriting. The band's spirited interpretation of the Drifters' classic 'Under The Boardwalk' adds a playful twist, revealing their affection for the pop music that influenced them.

Although rooted in punk, The Undertones occupied a distinctive place within the post-punk era. Their music was less concerned with aggression or political confrontation than with melody, character and the everyday experiences of growing up. This approach helped establish them as one of the great guitar-pop bands of their generation, influencing countless musicians who followed.

Hypnotised reached number six on the UK Albums Chart, becoming the band's highest-charting studio album. It remains an essential record from the period, balancing the raw excitement of punk with the craftsmanship of classic power pop and new wave.

A superb addition to any collection of late-seventies and early-eighties punk, post-punk and guitar-driven pop, Hypnotised is a reminder of just how effortlessly The Undertones could turn sharp observations and infectious melodies into enduring songs.

Tracklist

Side A
A1 More Songs About Chocolate And Girls
A2 There Goes Norman
A3 Hypnotised
A4 See That Girl
A5 Whizz Kids
A6 Under The Boardwalk
A7 The Way Girls Talk
A8 Hard Luck

Side B
B1 My Perfect Cousin
B2 Boys Will Be Boys
B3 Tearproof
B4 Wednesday Week
B5 Nine Times Out Of Ten
B6 Girls That Don't Talk
B7 What's With Terry?