Squeezing Out Sparks  by Graham Parker

Squeezing Out Sparks is the fourth album by British singer-songwriter Graham Parker and his band, The Rumour, which was released in March 1979. It is considered by many critics to be the pinnacle of his career and one of the most important albums of the post-punk and new wave era. 

Its style is characterized by a combination of pub rock, new wave, and intense lyrical aggression, with lyrics expressing anger, frustration, but also tenderness. The production was signed by the legendary Jack Nitzsche, who removed the brass and soul influences of previous records, emphasizing a more "raw," clean, and dynamic rock sound. It includes classic tracks such as Discovering Japan, Local Girls, Protection, and the particularly emotional You Can't Be Too Strong.

The album reached No. 18 in Great Britain and No. 40 in the United States.