Ultravox!

Released in February 1977, the self-titled debut from Ultravox! (then featuring an exclamation mark as a nod to Neu!) is a pivotal art-punk record. Produced by Steve Lillywhite with significant input from Brian Eno, the album was recorded at Island Studios during the height of the UK punk explosion. While it shares the energy of its contemporaries, it distinguishes itself through its sophisticated arrangements and dystopian lyrical themes. John Foxx's vision of 'the machine' and urban isolation set the band apart from the more populist punk acts. The album features a unique blend of instrumentation, most notably Billy Currie's electric violin, which is often treated with effects to sound like a synthesizer or a lead guitar. Despite poor initial sales, the record became a massive influence on the New Romantic and industrial scenes. It represents the first phase of the band's career, characterized by a darker, more experimental edge than the Midge Ure-led era that would follow in the 1980s.