The Cars, those new wave icons of the late 70s and 80s, left an indelible mark on the music scene with their synth-driven melodies and Ric Ocasek’s distinctively cool vocals. But with seven studio albums under their belt, ranking them becomes a matter of personal preference as much as objective analysis. So, buckle up as we take a drive down memory lane and rank The Cars’ albums from good to greatest.
Revving Up: The Cars’ Early Days
The Cars burst onto the scene in 1978 with their self-titled debut album. This record is pure new wave gold, packed with instantly recognizable hits like “Just What I Needed,” “My Best Friend’s Girl,” and “Good Times Roll.” The album’s success was immediate, establishing The Cars as a force to be reckoned with.
The Cars debut album cover
Their sophomore effort, “Candy-O” (1979), continued their winning streak. This album saw the band experimenting further with their sound, incorporating heavier guitar riffs and more complex arrangements. Tracks like “Let’s Go” and “It’s All I Can Do” became instant classics, cementing The Cars’ status as hitmakers.
Shifting Gears: Experimentation and Evolution
With “Panorama” (1980), The Cars took a turn towards a more experimental sound. This album is often considered their most divisive, with some fans appreciating its ambitious scope while others found it a departure from their earlier work. Nonetheless, “Panorama” contains some hidden gems, including the atmospheric “Touch and Go” and the driving “Gimme Some Slack.”
“Shake It Up” (1981) saw The Cars returning to a more polished and accessible sound. The title track became one of their biggest hits, and the album also features the infectious “Since You’re Gone” and the ballad “Think It Over.”
Cruising to a Halt: The Later Years
1984’s “Heartbeat City” marked a commercial peak for The Cars. This album is packed with some of their most iconic songs, including “You Might Think,” “Magic,” and “Drive.” With its synth-heavy production and catchy hooks, “Heartbeat City” became synonymous with the 80s sound.
Following a five-year hiatus, The Cars returned in 1987 with “Door to Door.” While not as commercially successful as their previous albums, “Door to Door” still contains some strong tracks, such as “You Are the Girl” and “Strap Me In.”
After disbanding in 1988, The Cars reunited in 2010 and released “Move Like This” in 2011. This album proved that they hadn’t lost their touch, with songs like “Blue Tip” and “Sad Song” showcasing their signature sound.
The Final Lap: Ranking The Cars’ Albums
Ranking The Cars’ albums is no easy task, as each one offers its own unique blend of new wave energy and pop sensibility. However, here’s our attempt:
- Heartbeat City (1984): This album is The Cars at their absolute peak, with a string of unforgettable hits that define the 80s sound.
- The Cars (1978): Their debut album remains a classic, introducing the world to their signature blend of new wave and power pop.
- Candy-O (1979): Building on the success of their debut, “Candy-O” sees The Cars experimenting with a heavier sound while still delivering the hits.
- Shake It Up (1981): A return to a more polished sound, “Shake It Up” features some of their most commercially successful singles.
- Move Like This (2011): A surprisingly strong comeback album, “Move Like This” proves that The Cars hadn’t lost their magic after all those years.
- Door to Door (1987): While not their strongest effort, “Door to Door” still has its moments and is worth a listen for fans.
- Panorama (1980): Their most experimental album, “Panorama” is a mixed bag that some fans adore while others find it a bit too out there.
Parking It: The Cars’ Enduring Legacy
No matter how you rank their albums, there’s no denying The Cars’ impact on music. They helped define the new wave era and left behind a catalog of songs that continue to be enjoyed by generations. So, put on your headphones, crank up the volume, and let The Cars take you on a journey back to the golden age of synth-pop.
