1,2,3,4, Modern English

Please note that we cant legitimise the Autographs we have not reflected this in price. 

Fluorescent Yellow coloured vinyl. 

Modern English – 1, 2, 3, 4

Artist: Modern English

Title: 1, 2, 3, 4

Album Type: (Special Edition)

Original Release Date: 1984

Label: Sire Records / 4AD

Genre: New Wave / Post-Punk / Synth-Pop

Background & Production Released during the peak of the band's international success following the global hit "I Melt with You," the 1, 2, 3, 4 EP (often categorized as a 12" single or mini-album in various territories) serves as a vital bridge in the Modern English discography. Produced largely by Hugh Jones—the architect behind their most celebrated sounds—the record captures the band as they moved from the dark, brooding post-punk of the 4AD label toward the more polished, rhythmic pop-sensibilities of the mid-80s.

Musical Composition & Style This release highlights the band's ability to layer atmospheric textures over driving, danceable rhythms.

• The Lead Track: "Hands Across the Sea" (frequently the lead track associated with this era) is a prime example of their expansive, melodic New Wave sound, featuring Robbie Grey’s distinctive vocals and the lush, chorused guitar work that defined the early 80s UK scene.

• The "4AD" Sound: Despite the move toward a more commercial sound, the B-sides and secondary tracks on this release often retain the moody, art-rock edge of their earlier work, utilizing synthesizers to create a sense of cinematic space.

• Rhythmic Focus: As the title suggests, the EP emphasizes the "beat," with a tighter focus on the interplay between Stephen Walker's keyboards and the driving percussion that made the band a staple in New York and London dance clubs.

Legacy & Collector Notes For collectors, the 1, 2, 3, 4 release is a prized item because it often features different mixes or tracklists depending on whether it is the UK 4AD pressing or the US Sire version. It captures the band in their prime "big-screen" New Wave era. The artwork, consistent with the high-aesthetic standards of the early 80s, makes it a visually striking piece for any Shopify store catering to fans of the "Second British Invasion."

• Keywords: Modern English, 1 2 3 4, Hands Across the Sea, 4AD Records, Sire Records, 1984 Vinyl, New Wave, Post-Punk, Robbie Grey, 12 Inch Single.

• Collection Ideas: 80s New Wave Rarities, 4AD Label History, Post-Punk Essentials, British Invasion 12" Collection.

• Related Artists: Echo & the Bunnymen, The Psychedelic Furs, The Cure, Tears for Fears, Simple Minds.

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