Big Flame, Cubist Pop Manifesto (12" EP)

Cubist Pop Manifesto (1986) is a German 12" collecting tracks from a couple of English Big Flame 7"s. The sound quality is murky for a 45 RPM 12", but the energy of the performance remains contagious and the political lyrics are inspired and funny when they cut through the din. Big Flame came after the Nightingales at a point when it's really too late to think of them as post-punk, but it's probably the most logical genre to force them into. At their best, their unforgettable melodies leap out, but they're always a fun engaging listen. The bright colors on the cover are (tastefully) a bit overwhelming.