OMD is set to celebrate the 40th anniversary of their acclaimed album Junk Culture with a special vinyl reissue, available on June 20, 2025, through UMR. Originally released in April 1984, Junk Culture marked the band’s fifth studio effort and secured a spot in the UK Top 10, featuring standout singles such as "Locomotion," "Talking Loud and Clear," and "Tesla Girls."
The new vinyl edition has been carefully remastered from the original half-inch reels and cut at half speed by Miles Showell at the legendary Abbey Road Studios. This meticulous process ensures that audiophiles will experience the album with enhanced clarity and fidelity, staying true to the original sound while taking full advantage of vinyl’s rich, warm tones.
A significant update in this reissue is the substitution of the "Tesla Girls" track. The band has replaced the original album version with an edit recorded at Wisseloord Studios during the initial sessions. Paul Humphreys explains that this choice reflects the arrangement the band performs live, offering what is considered the definitive version of the song. This adjustment aligns the vinyl release more closely with OMD’s live performances and artistic vision.
Junk Culture was produced by OMD alongside Brian Tench, with additional contributions from Tony Visconti. The recording process took place at various locations, including AIR Studios in Montserrat, where the band utilized their newly acquired Fairlight CMI sampler keyboard. The album's production and mixing at Wisseloord in Hilversum showcase the band’s commitment to innovative soundscapes and technical excellence.
The reissued vinyl maintains the original tracklisting, delivering both nostalgia and superior sound quality. This release not only honors OMD’s enduring legacy as pioneers of electronic synthesizer music but also provides a refreshed listening experience for both longtime fans and new listeners alike.
Tracklisting
Side A
Side B 6. Love And Violence 7. Hard Day 8. All Wrapped Up 9. White Trash 10. Talking Loud And Clear