Complete List Of Wire Albums And Songs

Feature Photo: Fergus Kelly, CC BY-SA 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Wire was formed in October 1976 in London, England. The band originally consisted of Colin Newman (vocals, guitar), Graham Lewis (bass, vocals), Bruce Gilbert (guitar), and Robert Gotobed (drums). Wire’s music has spanned several genres, including punk rock, post-punk, art punk, and experimental rock, significantly influencing the development of alternative music.

Wire released their debut album, Pink Flag, in 1977, a seminal work that differed from the prevailing punk rock of the time due to its minimalist approach and abstract lyricism. This was followed by Chairs Missing in 1978 and 154 in 1979, each showcasing a progression towards more complex structures and broader sonic palettes. After a hiatus in the early 1980s, during which members focused on solo and collaborative projects, Wire reformed in 1985 and released a series of albums with a greater electronic influence. As of 2020, Wire has released 18 studio albums, several live albums, and numerous compilations and EPs. Their later albums include Red Barked Tree (2010), Change Becomes Us (2013), and Mind Hive (2020).

WIRE STUDIO ALBUMS

Pink Flag (1977)

Released: November 1977

Pink Flag was Wire’s debut studio album, significantly influencing the punk and post-punk genres. It features a stark departure from extended jams typical of the era, opting instead for concise, sharply defined tracks. The album includes 21 tracks that challenge the conventions of rock music with their brevity and angular approach.

Produced by Mike Thorne and recorded at Advision Studios in London, England, the album didn’t chart significantly at the time but has since been recognized as a groundbreaking work in rock music.

CD Track Listings:

“Reuters” – 3:03
“Field Day for the Sundays” – 0:28
“Three Girl Rhumba” – 1:23
“Ex Lion Tamer” – 2:19
“Lowdown” – 2:26
“Start to Move” – 1:13
“Brazil” – 0:41
“It’s So Obvious” – 0:53
“Surgeon’s Girl” – 1:17
“Pink Flag” – 3:47
“The Commercial” – 0:49
“Straight Line” – 0:44
“106 Beats That” – 1:12
“Mr. Suit” – 1:25
“Strange” – 3:58
“Fragile” – 1:18
“Mannequin” – 2:37
“Different to Me” – 0:43
“Champs” – 1:45
“Feeling Called Love” – 1:22
“12 X U” – 1:55

Chairs Missing (1978)

Released: August 1978

Chairs Missing is Wire’s second studio album, where they began to experiment more with studio effects and more complex song structures, moving slightly away from the stark minimalism of Pink Flag. This album includes tracks like “Outdoor Miner” and “I Am the Fly,” which showcase a developing sophistication in their sound.

Produced by Mike Thorne and recorded at Advision Studios in London, England, this album received critical acclaim and is noted for its innovative approach to punk and post-punk music.

CD Track Listings:

“Practice Makes Perfect” – 4:11
“French Film Blurred” – 2:34
“Another the Letter” – 1:07
“Men 2nd” – 1:43
“Marooned” – 2:21
“Sand in My Joints” – 1:50
“Being Sucked in Again” – 3:14
“Heartbeat” – 3:16
“Mercy” – 5:46
“Outdoor Miner” – 1:44
“I Am the Fly” – 3:07
“I Feel Mysterious Today” – 1:57
“From the Nursery” – 2:38
“Used To” – 2:23
“Too Late” – 4:15

154 (1979)

Released: September 1979

154 marked further evolution in Wire’s sound, incorporating more electronic and experimental elements. Named after the number of live gigs Wire had performed by its release, this album features complex tracks like “Map Ref. 41°N 93°W” and “The 15th,” which fuse melodic elements with their trademark intellectual approach.

Produced by Mike Thorne, this album was recorded at Advision Studios and RAK Studios in London, England. It reached number 39 on the UK Albums Chart, reflecting a growing appreciation for their innovative sound.

CD Track Listings:

“I Should Have Known Better” – 3:52
“Two People in a Room” – 2:00
“The 15th” – 3:05
“The Other Window” – 2:07
“Single K.O.” – 2:23
“A Touching Display” – 6:55
“On Returning” – 2:06
“A Mutual Friend” – 4:28
“Blessed State” – 3:28
“Once Is Enough” – 3:23
“Map Ref. 41°N 93°W” – 3:40
“Indirect Enquiries” – 3:36
“40 Versions” – 3:28

The Ideal Copy (1987)

Released: April 1987

The Ideal Copy marks Wire’s reformation after a brief hiatus and their first studio album since 1979’s 154. It introduces a stronger electronic influence, integrating synths and drum machines alongside their traditional guitar work. The album’s sound is reflective of the then-emerging industrial and electronic music scenes.

Produced by Gareth Jones and Wire, The Ideal Copy was recorded at Hansa Tonstudio in Berlin, Germany, and Blackwing Studios in London, England. This period represented a significant shift in their musical direction, exploring new textures and production techniques.

CD Track Listings:

“Point of Collapse” – 3:20
“Ahead” – 5:00
“Madman’s Honey” – 4:28
“Feed Me” – 5:57
“Ambitious” – 4:11
“Cheeking Tongues” – 2:08
“Still Shows” – 4:10
“Over Theirs” – 5:23

A Bell Is a Cup (1988)

Released: May 1988

A Bell Is a Cup continues the electronic experimentation of The Ideal Copy but with a clearer, more polished sound. This album contains some of Wire’s most melodically rich work, including tracks like “Kidney Bingos” and “The Queen of Ur and the King of Um.”

Produced by Gareth Jones and Wire, the album was recorded at Preussen Tonstudio in Berlin, Germany. It was well-received critically for its sophisticated use of electronic instrumentation and thoughtful lyrics.

CD Track Listings:

“Silk Skin Paws” – 4:51
“The Finest Drops” – 4:56
“The Queen of Ur and the King of Um” – 4:02
“Free Falling Divisions” – 3:39
“It’s a Boy” – 3:59
“Boiling Boy” – 6:23
“Kidney Bingos” – 4:08
“Come Back in Two Halves” – 2:43
“Follow the Locust” – 4:21
“A Public Place” – 4:29

It’s Beginning To And Back Again (IBTABA) (1989)

Released: May 1989

It’s Beginning To And Back Again (IBTABA) is an innovative album by Wire, consisting largely of live material that was reworked and heavily edited in the studio, incorporating samples and loops. This approach gave the album a unique sound that blurs the line between live performance and studio production.

Produced by Paul Kendall and Wire, the album was recorded at various live venues and then extensively reprocessed at Blackwing Studios in London, England. This album showcases a creative phase of the band, utilizing technology to reshape the context of live recordings.

CD Track Listings:

“Eardrum Buzz” – 4:15
“German Shepherds” – 4:37
“Public Place” – 6:22
“It’s a Boy” – 3:59
“Illuminated” – 6:50
“Boiling Boy” – 6:23
“Over Theirs” – 5:23
“Eardrum Buzz” (Reprise) – 1:34

Manscape (1990)

Released: May 1990

Manscape explores further into electronic and digital production techniques, reflecting the influence of techno and synth-pop sounds prevalent at the time. The album features a more programmed approach to music-making, with an emphasis on digital synthesis and sequenced rhythms.

Produced by David M. Allen and Wire, Manscape was recorded at RAK Studios in London, England. This album represented a divisive shift for the band, with its experimental nature receiving mixed reactions from fans and critics.

CD Track Listings:

“Life in the Manscape” – 4:01
“Stampede” – 4:16
“Patterns of Behaviour” – 4:39
“Other Moments” – 3:49
“Small Black Reptile” – 3:20
“Torch It!” – 7:28
“Morning Bell” – 5:01
“Where’s the Deputation?” – 4:17
“What Do You See?” – 7:11
“Goodbye Ploy” – 5:16

The Drill (1991)

Released: April 1991

The Drill is an experimental album by Wire, consisting entirely of variations on their live performance piece also titled “The Drill.” This album is characterized by its minimalistic and repetitive structure, focusing on rhythmic experimentation and sonic textures.

Produced by Paul Kendall and Wire, the album was recorded at Worldwide International, The Greenhouse, and Swanyard Studios, all in London, England. The Drill is a departure from conventional song structures, showcasing the band’s interest in conceptual and process-based compositions.

CD Track Listings:

“In Every City?” – 7:04
“What’s Your Desire?” – 4:51
“Arriving/Staying/Going?” – 7:04
“(A Berlin) Drill” – 5:14
“Do You Drive? (Turn Your Coat)” – 5:11
“Where Are You Now?” – 5:40
“(A Chicago) Drill” – 5:10

The First Letter (1991)

Released: October 1991

The First Letter continues Wire’s exploration of electronic landscapes but with a more subdued and atmospheric tone compared to their previous work. The album, known in some regions as “Wir,” was produced after drummer Robert Gotobed’s departure, which led to the band briefly renaming themselves Wir.

Produced by Paul Kendall and Wire, the recording took place at Blackwing Studios in London, England. This album is noted for its introspective lyrics and minimalistic approach, utilizing sparse arrangements and digital production techniques.

CD Track Listings:

“Take It (For Greedy)” – 5:28
“So and Slow It Grows” – 4:12
“A Bargain at 3 and 20 Yeah!” – 5:17
“Footsi-Footsi” – 4:19
“Ticking Mouth” – 6:11
“It Continues” – 3:53
“Looking at Me (Stop!)” – 4:03
“Naked, Whooping and Such-Like (Extended on and On)” – 6:22
“Tailor Made” – 5:15
“No Cows on the Ice” – 4:53

Send (2003)

Released: May 5, 2003

Send marks a return to Wire’s more aggressive and raw sound, reminiscent of their earlier punk-influenced work but with a modern, post-punk edge. The album includes high-energy tracks that blend minimalist punk with electronic noise elements, reflecting the band’s continued evolution and experimental approach.

Produced by Colin Newman and Wire, Send was recorded at Swim Studio in London, England. This album is considered a powerful comeback, showcasing Wire’s ability to remain relevant and innovative in the new millennium.

CD Track Listings:

“In the Art of Stopping” – 3:34
“Mr. Marx’s Table” – 3:02
“Being Watched” – 2:57
“Comet” – 2:51
“The Agfers of Kodack” – 3:12
“Nice Streets Above” – 2:46
“Spent” – 3:56
“Read & Burn” – 2:34
“You Can’t Leave Now” – 3:41
“Half Eaten” – 1:58
“99.9” – 7:44

Object 47 (2008)

Released: July 7, 2008

Object 47, the band’s 47th release including albums and EPs, sees Wire continuing to explore a mix of punk, rock, and electronic sounds. This album focuses on concise songwriting combined with experimental electronic landscapes, featuring accessible yet deeply layered tracks.

Produced by Colin Newman, Object 47 was recorded at Swim Studio, reflecting a refined approach to digital production and sound design, while maintaining the band’s signature edge.

CD Track Listings:

“One of Us” – 3:45
“Circumspect” – 3:13
“Mekon Headman” – 2:58
“Perspex Icon” – 3:16
“Four Long Years” – 3:46
“Hard Currency” – 3:51
“Patient Flees” – 5:23
“Are You Ready?” – 4:36
“All Fours” – 4:06

Red Barked Tree (2010)

Released: January 10, 2011

Red Barked Tree reverts back to a more traditional rock format, diverging from the electronic-heavy sounds of their previous works. The album blends melodic guitar lines with thoughtful, introspective lyrics, showcasing the band’s versatility and depth.

Produced by Colin Newman and recorded at Swim Studio, Red Barked Tree resonates with fans for its blend of classic Wire elements with contemporary influences, further solidifying their status as pioneers in alternative rock.

CD Track Listings:

“Please Take” – 3:50
“Now Was” – 2:23
“Adapt” – 2:51
“Two Minutes” – 2:00
“Clay” – 3:12
“Bad Worn Thing” – 3:33
“Moreover” – 4:34
“A Flat Tent” – 2:15
“Smash” – 3:55
“Down to This” – 4:56
“Red Barked Trees” – 5:34

Change Becomes Us (2013)

Released: March 25, 2013

Change Becomes Us explores unfinished material from their earlier career, reimagined and reworked into new compositions. This approach brings a historical depth to the album, blending past ideas with contemporary production.

Produced by Colin Newman, the album was recorded at Swim Studio and offers a complex and layered listening experience, bridging the gap between Wire’s formative years and their current creative output.

CD Track Listings:

“Doubles & Trebles” – 3:50
“Keep Exhaling” – 1:39
“Adore Your Island” – 2:45
“Re-invent Your Second Wheel” – 3:45
“Stealth of a Stork” – 1:54
“B/W Silence” – 4:39
“Time Lock Fog” – 5:45
“Magic Bullet” – 3:41
“Eels Sang” – 2:24
“Love Bends” – 4:01
“As We Go” – 4:36
“& Much Besides” – 6:12
“Attractive Space” – 3:29

Wire (2015)

Released: April 13, 2015

Wire sees the band continuing to refine their sound with a focus on minimalist structures and detailed production. The self-titled album features a collection of succinct tracks that emphasize melody and atmosphere over aggression.

Produced by Colin Newman, the album was recorded at Rockfield Studios in Monmouthshire, Wales. It is praised for its artistic coherence and the seamless integration of electronic and organic sounds.

CD Track Listings:

“Blogging” – 3:23
“Shifting” – 2:53
“Burning Bridges” – 3:51
“In Manchester” – 3:20
“High” – 2:56
“Sleep-Walking” – 3:27
“Joust & Jostle” – 2:12
“Swallow” – 4:51
“Split Your Ends” – 3:34
“Octopus” – 3:01
“Harpooned” – 8:18

Nocturnal Koreans (2016)

Released: April 22, 2016

Nocturnal Koreans is a mini-album that features more experimental and intricate soundscapes compared to their 2015 self-titled album. It consists of material that originated during the same sessions but was considered too divergent to include on the main album.

Produced by Colin Newman, the recording sessions took place at Rockfield Studios. This release focuses on detailed production and sound exploration, providing a deeper dive into the band’s creative processes.

CD Track Listings:

“Nocturnal Koreans” – 2:50
“Internal Exile” – 2:50
“Dead Weight” – 3:16
“Forward Position” – 3:36
“Numbered” – 3:47
“Still” – 3:35
“Pilgrim Trade” – 4:16
“Fishes Bones” – 3:16

Silver/Lead (2017)

Released: March 31, 2017

Silver/Lead is the fifteenth studio album by Wire, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of their debut performance. This album juxtaposes reflective lyrics with melodic, often somber musical themes, demonstrating the band’s continued relevance and innovation in the post-punk landscape.

Produced by Colin Newman, it was recorded at Rockfield Studios. Silver/Lead is noted for its mature, thoughtful approach to songwriting and production, featuring tracks that explore themes of existence and reflection.

CD Track Listings:

“Playing Harp for the Fishes” – 3:14
“Short Elevated Period” – 2:54
“Diamonds in Cups” – 4:07
“Forever & a Day” – 4:05
“An Alibi” – 3:17
“Sonic Lens” – 3:27
“This Time” – 4:16
“Brio” – 2:44
“Sleep on the Wing” – 3:25
“Silver/Lead” – 3:34

Mind Hive (2020)

Released: January 24, 2020

Mind Hive is another testament to Wire’s enduring ability to innovate within the rock genre. The album blends melodic rock with electronic elements, creating a sound that is both contemporary and reflective of their extensive legacy.

Produced by Colin Newman and recorded at Rockfield Studios, Mind Hive has been praised for its richly textured layers and introspective lyrics, continuing the band’s exploration of new sonic territories.

CD Track Listings:

“Be Like Them” – 3:49
“Cactused” – 3:49
“Primed and Ready” – 3:28
“Off the Beach” – 3:17
“Unrepentant” – 4:28
“Shadows” – 3:18
“Oklahoma” – 3:47
“Hung” – 6:59
“Humming” – 3:24

10:20 (2020)

Released: June 19, 2020

10:20, initially intended as a Record Store Day exclusive, features tracks that were previously difficult to fit on earlier albums due to their differing styles or production approaches. The album showcases Wire’s capacity for versatility, with songs that vary in tone and structure, reflecting different phases of their career.

Produced by Colin Newman, 10:20 was recorded at various locations, continuing the band’s tradition of evolving their sound and experimenting with new musical ideas.