BLONDIE TURNS 40!

Blondie has never been subtle or shy, and their 1976 self-titled debut is just the beginning.

Produced by Richard Gottenhrer for Private Stock Records, he took their punk background and complemented it with a hint of 1950s sensibility. It’s an odd combination on paper but comes to brilliant life on record.

Armed and ready right out of the gate, their first track and first single is “X Offender,” retitled from “Sex Offender” and not a favorite of commercial radio at the time due to its title and subject material. Penned by Gary Valentine and Debbie Harry, this is classic Blondie, and Harry is not afraid to sing controversial lyrics with self-confidence and a sneer.

Harry’s perception of women is showcased in “Little Girl Lies” with the title's play on words and triple meaning (at least). “Rip Her to Shreds,” the LP’s third single, is a more direct approach, and her cold voice is delicious.

Jimmy Destri showcases his love of keyboards and ethereal lyrics in “Look Good in Blue” and “A Shark in Jets Clothing.” The latter is clearly inspired by West Side Story, complete with finger snaps.

Chris Stein contributes “In the Sun” which is ready for any day at the beach. Stein’s “The Attack of the Giant Ants” lets us know that Blondie does not really take themselves or the business too seriously.

Harry and Stein share songwriting talents on the sole ballad and second single “In The Flesh.” It is a beautiful tune, but she sings with irony and distance, letting us know she is not a girl to be messed with.

The unique and undeniable percussion talents of Clem Burke is evident on every song here, and he will continue to get even better. 

Blondie will go through some personal and musical changes, but for now their impressive first album is a great start and a greater sign of things to come.