The Boomtown Rats – The Fine Art of Surfacing (Rock/New Wave, Vinyl LP) JC‑36178

The Boomtown Rats – The Fine Art of Surfacing (Rock/New Wave, Vinyl LP) JC‑36178

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The Fine Art of Surfacing was recorded in 1979 during The Boomtown Rats’ peak period, following the commercial breakthrough of A Tonic for the Troops. The album reflects the band’s shift toward a more polished, rhythm‑driven new wave sound while retaining the social commentary and narrative writing that defined their earlier work. The sessions took place during a period of extensive touring, with the band developing many of the arrangements on the road before entering the studio.

The lineup for the album included Bob Geldof, Pete Briquette, Garry Roberts, Johnnie Fingers, Gerry Cott, and Simon Crowe. Their combined approach blended guitar‑based rock with keyboards and structured pop arrangements typical of late‑1970s new wave. “I Don’t Like Mondays,” written by Geldof and Fingers, became the band’s most internationally recognized song and marked their first major hit in North America. Other tracks such as “Someone’s Looking at You” and “Diamond Smiles” continued the band’s focus on observational writing and contemporary themes.

The album captures the Rats at a transitional moment, balancing their earlier punk‑influenced energy with more expansive production and melodic structures. It became one of their most widely distributed releases and played a significant role in establishing their presence outside the UK and Ireland.

Sleeve Condition (Out of 10) ~9 slight wear
Label Condition (Out of 10) ~ 10
Vinyl Condition ~ (Out of 10)
Side # 1 ~ 10
Side # 2 - 10

R19 / R31 - slight creasing in the cover

R81 perfect mint with inner sleeve