Clues, Robert Palmer

Please note - There is an obvious Promo sticker removed on label.

Robert Palmer – Clues

Artist: Robert Palmer

Title: Clues

Album Type: Sixth Studio Album

Original Release Date: September 1980

Label: Island Records

Genre: New Wave / Synth-Pop / Rock

Background & Production Clues marks a sharp, experimental turn in Robert Palmer’s career, moving away from the blue-eyed soul and tropical funk of his 70s output and diving headfirst into the sleek, mechanical sounds of the New Wave. Recorded at Compass Point Studios in the Bahamas, the album is a collaborative tour de force. It features significant contributions from Gary Numan, who co-wrote "Found You Now," and Chris Frantz of Talking Heads, who played drums on "Looking for Clues." The result is a minimalist, rhythm-heavy record that perfectly captured the "post-punk" aesthetic of the early 80s.

Musical Composition & Style The album is remarkably concise (clocking in at just under 31 minutes), stripping away excess to focus on synthesizers, sharp guitar riffs, and Palmer’s versatile vocals.

• The Breakthrough Single: "Looking for Clues" is the album’s standout—a quirky, xylophone-accented synth-pop masterpiece that became an early MTV staple and a global hit.

• Rock Energy: "Johnny and Mary" remains one of Palmer’s most enduring songs. Its relentless, hypnotic synth pulse and melancholic lyrics became a signature sound of the era (and famously served as the theme for Renault car commercials for years).

• Experimental Covers: The album features a surprising and high-energy cover of The Beatles’ "Not a Second Time," reworked into a jagged, modern rock track.

• Technological Edge: With Gary Numan’s influence felt throughout, the album leans into "robotic" rhythms and icy textures, yet Palmer’s natural soulful charisma keeps the music from feeling cold.

Legacy & Collector Notes Clues is often cited by critics as Palmer's most cohesive and artistically successful solo work. It proved he was one of the few 70s artists who could successfully pivot to the New Wave era without losing his identity. For vinyl collectors, the original Island Records pressings are highly valued for their crisp, punchy production. The cover art—featuring a stylish, suit-clad Palmer—began the visual branding that would eventually lead to his massive Addicted to Love success. It is an essential item for any store specializing in 80s New Wave, Synth-Pop, or the history of Island Records.

• Keywords: Robert Palmer, Clues, Looking for Clues, Johnny and Mary, Gary Numan, Island Records, 1980 Vinyl, New Wave, Synth-Pop, Compass Point.

• Collection Ideas: 80s New Wave Essentials, The Compass Point Sound, Synth-Pop Classics, Robert Palmer Discography.

• Related Artists: Gary Numan, Talking Heads, Bryan Ferry, The Cars, Power Station.

MINT - sealed

NM - likely never played - almost perfect

VG+ - light scuffs, light scratches wont effect play

VG -  signs of wear, light scratches you can feel

GOOD -  surface noise, visible groove wear

POOR / FAIR- some damage, causing issues like skipping & distorted audio

OIS - original inner sleeve