Level 42 (Thousand Club)

Originally released in 1981, Level 42 introduced one of the most distinctive British bands of the decade, bringing together jazz-funk, sophisticated pop, and tightly crafted grooves with an unmistakable sound of their own.

The album captures the group’s early musical identity in full force, driven by Mark King’s remarkable bass playing alongside Mike Lindup’s keyboards and vocals, Phil Gould’s precise, propulsive drumming, and Boon Gould’s guitar work. Their combination of technical musicianship and strong songwriting gives the record an energy and sophistication that still sounds fresh today.

Featuring early favourites including “Love Games,” “Turn It On,” “Starchild” and “Staring at the Sun,” Level42 laid the foundations for the band’s subsequent international success while showcasing the jazz-funk roots at the heart of their sound.