Stands for Decibels (1981)

About this title: On their debut, the dB's combined a reverence for British pop and arty, post-punk leanings that alternate between minimalism and a love of quirky embellishment, odd sounds, and unexpected twists; Stands for Decibels is clearly a collegiate pop experiment, but rarely is experimentation so enjoyable and irresistibly catchy. Singing and songwriting duties are shared equally by Chris Stamey and Peter Holsapple -- Stamey, more quirky and psychedelic-leaning with a winsome, pure-pop whine, is nicely balanced by Holsapple's more earthy drawl and straightforward approach. The album stands not only as ... read more

Tracks:

1. Black and White [Holsapple]
2. Dynamite [Holder/Holsapple/Ri]
3. She's Not Worried [Starney]
4. The Fight [Holsapple]
5. Espionage [Stamey]
6. Tearjerkin' [Starney]
7. Cycles Per Second [Starney]
8. Bad Reputation [Holsapple]
9. Big Brown Eyes [Holsapple]
10. I'm in Love [Stamey]
11. Moving in Your Sleep [Holsapple]

Note: This is a general synopsis. Each listing is further described below.