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Songs to Learn and Sing

by Echo & The Bunnymen

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Songs to Learn and Sing is a staple in the collection of post-new-wave rock. It was an era when the term progressive had just replaced the word alternative to describe music that was just too cool for American radio. This album is a compilation of Echo and the Bunnymen's British chart toppers from 1980 to 1985. The only song on this album that received attention beyond the band's cult following was "Bring on the Dancing Horses," made famous by its inclusion in the Pretty in Pink soundtrack. Echo and the Bunnymen are a tinny, twangy, ever-so-slightly-out-of-tune guitar band. What lead singer Ian McCulloch lacked in vocal range he made up for by embracing his comfort zone with full-force cracking, emotional yelps. A distinctive, recognizable sound, even to the barely initiated, this album marks an era yet is so enjoyable, it remains proudly timeless. --Beth Bessmer