By Kevin Price, Editor, US Daily Review
In the vibrant landscape of late 1970s and early 1980s music, few bands managed to bridge the gap between the cutting-edge sounds of New Wave and the nostalgic allure of retro rock as seamlessly as The Cars. Hailing from Boston, Massachusetts, this quintet, comprised of Ric Ocasek, Benjamin Orr, Elliot Easton, Greg Hawkes, and David Robinson. Combined they crafted a distinctive sound that married the futuristic synths and angular guitars of New Wave with the timeless melodies and song structures of classic rock. One of their standout tracks, “Touch and Go” (see the video below) perfectly epitomizes this duality and serves as a prime example of their innovative approach.
The New Wave Aesthetic
The Cars burst onto the scene in 1978 with their self-titled debut album, featuring iconic tracks like “Just What I Needed” and “My Best Friend’s Girl.” Their music was undeniably part of the New Wave movement, characterized by its experimental, post-punk sound and a penchant for electronic instrumentation. The band was known for their use of synthesizers, which added a futuristic edge to their music, a hallmark of New Wave bands.
A Retro Vibe: Nostalgia and Timeless Melodies
Meanwhile, despite their embrace of New Wave elements, The Cars also demonstrated a deep appreciation for the timeless appeal of classic rock. And when I say “classic,” I mean an era reminiscent of the 50s and 60s. When I hear “Touch and Go” I think of the music from an older TV Western like Bonanza. The Cars had a unique connection to the retro sound. This influence is evident in their use of traditional song structures, memorable hooks, and the emotive vocal stylings of Benjamin Orr. Tracks like “Drive“ and “Let’s Go” harkened back to the golden age of rock ‘n’ roll, showcasing a keen understanding of the genre’s enduring power.
“Touch and Go”: A Perfect Fusion
“Touch and Go,” released in 1980 as part of their third album “Panorama,” stands as a brilliant testament to The Cars’ ability to blend the seemingly disparate worlds of New Wave and retro rock. The song opens with a pulsating synth riff, immediately establishing a modern, edgy tone that is characteristic of the New Wave sound. This is coupled with Ric Ocasek’s distinctive vocals, delivering enigmatic lyrics that are a staple of the genre.
However, what sets “Touch and Go” apart is its masterful integration of classic rock elements. The driving bassline, courtesy of Benjamin Orr, provides a solid foundation that nods to the rhythmic precision of 1970s rock. Elliot Easton’s guitar work, while still exhibiting some of the angularity of New Wave, employs a melodic sensibility reminiscent of classic rock guitar heroes.
The Bridge Between Eras
In many ways, “Touch and Go” serves as a microcosm of The Cars’ entire discography. It captures their remarkable ability to seamlessly meld the forward thinking spirit of New Wave with the enduring charm of retro rock. This dualistic approach allowed them to appeal to a wide audience, bridging the generational gap between those who grew up with the classics and those eager to embrace the new sounds of the era.
The Cars’ ability to straddle the worlds of New Wave and classic rock is a testament to their musical prowess and innovation. Through tracks like “Touch and Go,” they demonstrated that these seemingly different genres could coexist harmoniously, creating a unique sonic landscape that continues to resonate with listeners to this day. The band’s enduring legacy lies in their ability to transcend temporal boundaries, leaving an indelible mark on the history of rock music.
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