Public Image Ltd - Metal Box

Decade - 1970's


Public Image Ltd - Metal Box (1979)

Public Image Ltd is an English post-punk band formed in 1978. The band has ever-changing members but was formed by John Lydon of the Sex Pistols and Keith Levene of the Clash.

Metal Box was released in 1979 and seemed to have been created amidst copious drug use, constantly changing drummers and general disorganisation. That's normally a recipe for disaster, but in this case the mix worked out fine, and Public Image Ltd released what is considered one of their best albums.

And I agree. It's a very good album. I'm not really a fan of post-punk but this is dark and introverted and strangely seductive. It's not an "easy" listen but it's not so difficult you won't enjoy it on a first listen. The bass lines and overall mood are compelling and unbelievably, I even like the two instrumentals. Great lyrics too, and great vocals from Lydon.


Score - 8.9/10

Genre - post-punk

Best Tracks - Graveyard, Swan Lake, Albatross

Recommended - Yes