Released in 1982, Primitive Man became a landmark album for the Australian band that had been formerly billed as Flowers. While the name change may confuse newcomers, this second release under the name Icehouse, led by frontman Iva Davies, is not only an evolution but includes Australia’s unofficial national anthem; Great Southern Land.
Adding more sophistication and production qualities, when compared directly to their debut album, Primitive Man offers music lovers a sensory experience that explores a variety of musical styles. The pristine production enhances the clarity of each instrument and allows the atmospheric and electronic elements to shine. Perhaps most importantly, Primitive Man, as with all of Icehouse’s recordings, sounds exceptional via both legacy and modern formats. Although, I will say that the 2017 vinyl reissue, pressed from the 2012 digital remasters, has a slight edge over the digital counterpart. It’s simply the analogue warmth (distortion) of the format that is the differential aspect here as it just smooths the overall presentation of the album.
Visually, Primitive Man is striking and as solid as the stream or CD releases can be, none are quite as impactful as when this album is released on the larger vinyl canvas. While I’ve yet to compile a list of the best album covers of all time, Primitive Man would certainly be at the top of the list for Icehouse’s artwork has always been exceptional, but Primitive Man certainly plays into the overall thematic elements of the album and is a perfect visual counterpart to the audible journey.
Further reflecting on the music itself, while not entirely void of new wave rock influences, that were a focal point of their debut, Primitive Man certainly focused more on the synth-pop elements that would further catapult the band to mainstream success. While newcomers to the band would be advised to check out White Heat: 30 Hits; make sure you check out the music that makes up not only this album but Icehouse’s entire back catalogue as the album-only songs as as pivotal to the band’s success as the hits. Hence, join me as we take a look at the songs that make up this landmark Australian release.
Great Southern Land is Icehouse’s magnum opus. While it wasn’t the only standout hit from Primitive Man, it has remained in the social consciousness since its release, for there likely isn’t an Australian who hasn’t heard this incredible tune. Perhaps they don’t know the artist or never purchased the album or the single, but one thing is for certain, every Australian knows the song when they hear it. Few songs are so influential in this way that when a tune such as Great Southern Land comes along, you need to sit up and take notice. Characterised by a haunting melody, atmospheric instrumental backing, and sweeping arrangements, Great Southern Land captures the soul from the very first note to the last. While some may lament the use of synthesised elements, to do so would be at their peril for this classic tune is representative of some of the very best synthesised music in all of recorded music history.
Uniform appears after a longer fadeout than one would normally expect, but the slow build ensures that it isn’t a jolt to the senses following the melodic Great Southern Land as Uniform has a rhythmic dance vibe that is quite different to the album’s opening tune. Nevertheless, Uniform is a fantastic song from the era and while it likely isn’t a standout for many people, Primitive Man wouldn’t be the same without it.
Hey, Little Girl again shifts the tone for it’s a more relaxed and introspective inclusion. At this stage, I’ve been enjoying Primitive Man for well over three decades and I truly have a love/hate relationship with Hey, Little Girl. In some ways, it reminds me of Love In Motion; another song that I have mixed feelings about. It isn’t that these tunes are bad, anything but, I’m just not a fan of ballad-styled tunes when Icehouse records them as I feel Davies’ vocals become a little too campy throughout. It’s not the synth-pop element either as I simply adore the musical bed and the short instrumental passage about three-quarters of the way through the song. Nevertheless, Hey, Little Girl is one of Icehouse’s most popular tunes and yes, dear reader, I do enjoy it as part of the album’s structure; I’m just unlikely to play it outside of the album’s intended sequencing.
Street Cafe is one of my all-time favourite Icehouse songs for its soft rock at its very best as Davies knocks his vocals out of the park on this track. Add to that the chosen guitar licks, and shifting rhythm between the verse and chorus, and you’ve got what can only be described as the perfect track.
Glam is a thoroughly enjoyable dynamic tune infused with energy and a danceable rhythm. Featuring a combination of electronic and rock elements, Glam quickly becomes an earworm (an enjoyable one) that you’ll find yourself humming along to all day.
Trojan Blue opens with atmospheric synth textures and a slower tempo that perfectly suits the second half of the album. It’s a beautiful song and while never destined to be a hit, it’s most certainly a hidden gem.
One By One is a mid-tempo track with a pulsating rhythm that is addictively good. Yes, it’s another album-only tune, but it’s songs such as this that ensure Primitive Man is a memorable album experience.
Break These Chains is a killer rock song. If you’re not head-bopping and toe-tapping, or up on your feet bouncing around; you’re listening wrong. While Icehouse has an incredible legacy, Break These Chains is yet another hidden gem that has to be heard firsthand; it’s extraordinary!
Mysterious Thing flows beautifully in the intended sequencing and adds to the album’s overall atmospheric quality. Album-only tracks are seldom this enjoyable, but if you listen past their well-known hits, you’ll find that Icehouse has much to offer for the music that never hit the radio waves is just as enjoyable, sometimes more so, as some of their better-known tunes.
Goodnight Mr Matthews (USA Re-record) closes the album beautifully. Featuring some of the most magical guitar work I’ve ever been fortunate to hear, Goodnight Mr Matthews will leave you in a reflective mood while also encouraging you to play the album again for it is a rarity when I listen to Primitive Man only once.
Overall, Primitive Man stands as a pivotal album in Icehouse’s discography, showcasing artistic growth and experimentation with a more polished and sophisticated sound. The combination of memorable melodies, introspective lyrics, and innovative production makes this record a timeless classic that continues to resonate with fans; particularly those of us who are nostalgic for the music of the 80s. Synth-pop has never sounded so good!