Introduction to The Alarm: The Shouting Eighties Band

The Alarm, a significant act in the 1980s, left a unique mark on the British and Irish music scene. Despite mixed reviews, particularly from my personal experience, the band's raw energy and distinctive sound have garnered a dedicated fanbase. This article delves into the band, my personal opinions, and what listeners might find enjoyable about their music.

A Short Flare of Popularity

There was a time when groups like The Alarm, along with fellow bands U2, Simple Minds, Big Country, and The Waterboys, seemed to represent a new stage in British and Irish pop music. However, the group was a mirage, and other bands like U2 and The Waterboys stood well above the others. The Alarm and Big Country had their moments, but they were often overshadowed by U2's undeniable prowess. These bands, especially The Alarm, were often shrouded in an air of being outsiders, a concept they tried to exploit with their Welsh and Scottish roots but often fell flat.

Personal Observations and Preferences

Despite my admitted love for The Alarm during a short phase, the group's sound quickly became tiresome to me. Their approach to music, particularly their shouting style, was a turned-off point. The Alarm's reliance on their Scottish and Welsh heritage did little to elevate their music and instead came across as forced and overly obvious. Still, two members, Mike Peters and Dave Sharp, possess real talent. Their cover of 'Bells of Rhymney' is moving, and 'Caroline Isenberg' offers an upbeat Bo-Diddley beat that is commendable. Among their more typical songs, 'Absolute Reality' stands out as the standout gem on their discography.

Favorite Tracks and Albums

Reflecting on my favorite tracks, I particularly enjoyed songs like 'Rain in the Summer Time,' 'Rescue Me,' 'Sold Me Down the River,' and 'One Step Closer to Home.' These compositions showcased the band's ability to blend heartfelt lyrics and catchy melodies. Among their albums, 'Declaration' (1984) and 'Eye of the Hurricane' (1987) are most notable. Both of these albums featured some of their most memorable tracks and are generally considered their best work. Interestingly, Mike Peters and Dave Sharp remain active in the music industry, with Peters continuing to front a revamped version of The Alarm and Sharp exploring his solo career.

Context and Legacy

Looking back, most of The Alarm's output hasn’t aged particularly well. Critics and fans alike often see their music as a limited reflection of the U2 era, attempting to mimic their success with a Welsh accent. While their song '68 Guns' remains a solid performance, much of their other work is now often viewed critically. The band's emphasis on a loud, shouty style and their use of mullets contribute to a dated image that some find off-putting.

Conclusion

The Alarm's legacy is marred by both their successes and their shortcomings. While they had their moment in the 80s, their overselling as a Welsh equivalent to U2 ultimately did them a disservice. Nonetheless, their contributions to the musical landscape of the 1980s are noteworthy, and their core members continue to make music in various forms today. Whether others will find joy in The Alarm's music is subjective, but the band's history and impact on 80s pop music are undeniable.