Only A Lad by Oingo Boingo, released 12 February 1990.
This version of Only A Lad comes as a 1xCD. - W/ DANNY ELFMAN
"Only A Lad" is the debut studio album by the American new wave band Oingo Boingo, presented here in the classic CD format. Originally released in the early 1980s, it captures the band's highly energetic mix of new wave, ska-tinged rhythms and quirky, theatrical rock. The songs are characterized by fast tempos, sharp arrangements, unexpected melodic turns and ironic, often darkly humorous lyrics that comment on suburban life, morality and social norms. This CD edition offers the album in a convenient, durable format, making it ideal both for collectors of early-80s alternative music and for new listeners who want to discover a cult favorite of the new wave era.
Oingo Boingo, led by singer, songwriter and composer Danny Elfman, quickly built a reputation for their inventive, genre-blending sound and their explosive live shows. The band stood out from many of their contemporaries through their complex arrangements, punchy horn section and Elfman's distinctive, theatrical vocal style. Over the years, Oingo Boingo became a cult band, especially in the alternative and college-radio scenes, with tracks like "Only a Lad," "Little Girls" and others becoming staples for fans of off-beat, intelligent pop and rock. Their influence can still be felt in the way later bands mix dark humor, intricate arrangements and pop sensibility.
Danny Elfman himself went on to a highly successful career as a film composer, which further raised the profile of Oingo Boingo's catalog. His memorable scores for films and television helped introduce new audiences to his earlier work with the band, turning albums like "Only A Lad" into milestones for listeners who want to explore the roots of his musical universe. This makes the CD not only a snapshot of a particular moment in music history, but also an important starting point for understanding one of the most distinctive creative voices to emerge from the new wave movement.
The CD is released by A&M, a renowned record label known for its diverse and carefully curated roster of artists across rock, pop, jazz and beyond. Founded in the 1960s, A&M built a strong reputation for artist-friendly development and high production standards, helping many musicians reach international audiences. A&M's involvement underscores the quality aspirations behind this release: solid sound, reliable manufacturing and a catalog philosophy that favors distinctive, characterful artists over short-lived trends.
Rock&Pop
107.595
- Beat 219- Bombast Rock 123- Classic Rock 15.374- Glamrock 103- Latin Rock 213- Mainstream Rock 72.570- Rockpop 17.824- Soft Rock/Pop Rock 539- Westcoast 527Songwriter 3.446
