My Top 2000 Songs #1141: I Found That Essence Rare

Gang Of Four are on the shortlist of bands for which I have tremendous respect which doesn't necessarily translate into significant playtime on my stereo (see also, e.g., PIL, Pere Ubu, Mission of Burma, etc.).While their brand of jagged, angular post-punk is immediately recognizable, I can find it a little jarring in more than small doses. But when I'm in the mood for that small dose, "I Found That Essence Rare," off 1979's debut Entertainment!, is the one I find most approachable, the closest to a catchy, more traditional punk song.

The guitars still sound wholly unique, the minimalism of Wire's early music given a funkier dance vibe, but some bits you can almost hum--or at least shout along with.

Live, this year!

The Wedding Present's double-speed cover:

Band Of Susans: