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The Ting Tings pop duo formed in 2004, consists of Jules De Martino (drums, lead guitar, bass guitar, vocals, piano) and Katie White (vocals, guitar, bass drums, bass guitar). The band originated in Salford, Greater Manchester, emerging from the Islington Mill arts hub in the Salford area of Greater Manchester. The Ting Tings are known for their energetic mix of indie pop, dance, and new wave sounds.
The duo has released four studio albums: We Started Nothing (2008), Sounds from Nowheresville (2012), Super Critical (2014), and The Black Light (2018). They have not released any live albums to date, nor have they put out any official compilations. We Started Nothing achieved significant commercial success, debuting at number 1 on the UK Albums Chart and number 78 on the US Billboard 200. The album included hits such as “That’s Not My Name,” which reached number 1 on the UK Singles Chart, and “Shut Up and Let Me Go,” which garnered international attention, including an iPod commercial, boosting their global profile.
The Ting Tings’ debut earned them a nomination for Best New Artist at the 51st Grammy Awards and won an Ivor Novello Award for Best Album in 2009. Despite a less commercially successful trajectory in their subsequent releases, The Ting Tings maintained a dedicated fanbase and continued to tour and record. The band’s style is distinguished by their minimalist setup, catchy hooks, and dynamic, high-energy performances. Their music has been featured in various commercials, movies, and TV shows, contributing to their widespread recognition.
THE TING TINGS STUDIO ALBUMS
We Started Nothing (2008)
Released: May 19, 2008
We Started Nothing is the debut studio album by The Ting Tings, an English indie pop duo consisting of Jules De Martino and Katie White. The album was a commercial success, driven by the catchy singles “That’s Not My Name” and “Shut Up and Let Me Go,” both of which contributed to the album’s energetic and playful vibe. It debuted at number 1 on the UK Albums Chart and reached number 78 on the US Billboard 200. The album was recorded at Islington Mill, Salford, UK, and was produced by Jules De Martino.
CD Track Listings:
- “Great DJ” – 3:23
- “That’s Not My Name” – 5:11
- “Fruit Machine” – 2:54
- “Traffic Light” – 2:59
- “Shut Up and Let Me Go” – 2:52
- “Keep Your Head” – 3:23
- “Be the One” – 2:58
- “We Walk” – 4:04
- “Impacilla Carpisung” – 3:41
- “We Started Nothing” – 6:22
Sounds from Nowheresville (2012)
Released: February 24, 2012
Sounds from Nowheresville is The Ting Tings’ second studio album, which showcases a shift towards a more experimental sound. The album did not achieve the commercial success of their debut but was praised for its bold approach to genre blending, including elements of funk, disco, and pop. Despite mixed reviews, it highlighted the duo’s willingness to explore new musical territories. It peaked at number 23 on the UK Albums Chart and number 87 on the US Billboard 200. The album was recorded in various locations, including Berlin and Spain, and produced by Jules De Martino.
CD Track Listings:
- “Silence” – 3:47
- “Hit Me Down Sonny” – 2:52
- “Hang It Up” – 3:11
- “Give It Back” – 3:36
- “Guggenheim” – 3:57
- “Soul Killing” – 3:17
- “One by One” – 3:45
- “Day to Day” – 3:34
- “Help” – 3:01
- “In Your Life” – 2:58
Super Critical (2014)
Released: October 27, 2014
Super Critical finds The Ting Tings experimenting with disco and funk influences, a noticeable departure from their earlier indie pop sound. The album was recorded on the Spanish island of Ibiza and produced in collaboration with Andy Taylor of Duran Duran. While Super Critical did not achieve high chart positions, it was recognized for its creative production and the duo’s continued innovation in integrating different musical styles.
CD Track Listings:
- “Super Critical” – 3:30
- “Daughter” – 3:17
- “Do It Again” – 3:54
- “Wrong Club” – 4:11
- “Wabi Sabi” – 3:58
- “Only Love” – 3:45
- “Communication” – 3:32
- “Green Poison” – 3:54
- “Failure” – 2:43
The Black Light (2018)
Released: November 16, 2018
The Black Light marks The Ting Tings’ fourth studio album, characterized by a blend of electronic and indie rock elements. The album reflects a more introspective and darker tone compared to their previous work, focusing on more mature themes and refined electronic arrangements. It was produced by Jules De Martino and recorded in a converted Finca in Ibiza, Spain. While it did not chart as highly as their debut, it showcased the duo’s ability to evolve their sound and artistic expression.
CD Track Listings:
- “Estranged” – 4:36
- “Basement” – 3:06
- “Fine & Dandy” – 3:19
- “Earthquake” – 3:44
- “Blacklight” – 3:41
- “Motorcycle” – 3:23
- “String Interlude” – 1:23
- “Wrong Side of the Tracks” – 3:10
- “Ashes” – 4:22
- “Mirrors” – 4:16
Read More: Top 10 Ting Tings Songs