The Knack’s debut album, “Get the Knack,” released in 1979, is an iconic piece of power pop that captures the exuberance and rebellious spirit of late ’70s rock. Produced by Mike Chapman, mixed by Pete Coleman, and recorded at MCA Whitney Studios in Glendale, California, the album is a dynamic blend of catchy melodies, infectious hooks, and youthful energy, making it an enduring classic.
“Get the Knack” is driven by the irresistible hit “My Sharona,” a track that quickly became an anthem with its pulsating rhythm, unforgettable guitar riff, and Doug Fieger’s charismatic vocals. “Good Girls Don’t,” another standout hit, is provocative yet accessible, complete with clever lyrics and tight musicianship.
Beyond these well-known singles, “Get the Knack” is packed with hidden gems. “Let Me Out” opens the album with an explosive burst of energy, setting the tone with its raw guitar work and driving beat, perfectly encapsulating the band’s edgy yet polished sound. Fieger’s vocal delivery is both urgent and compelling, drawing listeners in from the very first note.
“She’s So Selfish” combines biting lyrics with a punchy, rhythmic groove. The song’s commentary on self-centered relationships is delivered with a snarl, underpinned by Berton Averre’s sharp guitar lines and Bruce Gary’s impeccable drumming. It’s a track that balances attitude with melody, making it a memorable and impactful part of the album. Tracks like “Your Number or Your Name” and a cover of Buddy Holly’s 1958 song, “Frustrated” are both musically sophisticated and immediately appealing. The band’s tight instrumentation and Fieger’s distinct vocal style shine through on every track, creating a cohesive yet diverse listening experience.
The release of “Get the Knack” occurred against a backdrop of significant social and political change. The late 1970s were marked by economic difficulties, including inflation and high unemployment rates. This economic uncertainty contributed to a sense of disillusionment and frustration. The late 1970s saw significant cultural shifts as well. The counterculture movement of the 1960s and early 1970s had given way to a more conservative cultural atmosphere in some respects. Disco music was hugely popular, but there was also a burgeoning punk and new wave movement that was reacting against the perceived excesses and superficiality of disco.
Youth rebellion and a desire for authenticity were significant themes in this period. Punk rock, in particular, represented a raw and unpolished response to the slick production of mainstream music. Bands like The Knack, though more polished and pop-oriented, tapped into this desire for straightforward, energetic, and rebellious music. The political climate was characterized by a decline in public trust in government following events like the Watergate scandal and the Vietnam War. President Jimmy Carter’s administration was dealing with the Iranian hostage crisis and energy crises, which further contributed to a sense of malaise and uncertainty.
The late 1970s were also a time of shifting gender roles and social dynamics. The feminist movement had made significant strides, but there was still considerable debate and tension around issues of gender equality and sexual liberation. Some of The Knack’s lyrics, with their frank and sometimes provocative treatment of relationships and sexuality, can be seen as reflecting and responding to these changing dynamics. The late 1970s were a transformative time for media and technology, with the rise of FM radio and the increasing influence of television on popular culture. Music videos were starting to become an important promotional tool, setting the stage for the MTV era in the early 1980s.
In this context, “Get the Knack” emerged as a fresh and exciting album. Its energetic sound and catchy melodies provided a sense of escapism and fun, while its edgy lyrics and raw energy captured the spirit of rebellion and change that characterized the era. The Knack managed to bridge the gap between the polished pop of the mainstream and the raw energy of the burgeoning new wave and punk scenes, making their debut a significant cultural moment in 1979.
“Get the Knack” captures the essence of youthful exuberance and angst. Each track is meticulously crafted, blending elements of rock, pop, and punk to create a sound that is uniquely their own. This album is not just a collection of songs but a vibrant snapshot of an era, filled with passion, wit, and undeniable talent. Whether you’re revisiting it after many years or discovering it for the first time, “Get the Knack” is an album that continues to captivate and inspire, solidifying The Knack’s place in rock history.