Secondhand Daylight  by Magazine

Secondhand Daylight, the second album by Magazine released in 1979, is a masterpiece of the post-punk sound. After leaving the Buzzcocks, visionary Howard Devoto wanted to break away permanently from the raw energy of traditional punk. The creation of the album was marked by the defining presence of keyboardist Dave Formula. His addition shifted the band onto more experimental paths, replacing guitar outbursts with icy, atmospheric synthesizers.

The musical style of the album is dark, introspective, and detached. Barry Adamson's complex, almost jazz-like basslines tie masterfully with Colin Thurston's production. The result is a work full of existential angst and grey, urban melancholy that flirts heavily with art-rock. The central visual on the front of the cover is a surreal, slightly eerie illustration by British artist Ian Pollock.

Despite its demanding and experimental nature, the record managed to leave its mark on its era. On the UK charts, it achieved notable success for its genre, reaching No. 30. Today, it is considered one of the most influential and underrated gems of the entire post-punk scene.