"Primitive Man" is the second studio album by Australian rock band Icehouse, released on September 20, 1982. Initially conceived as a solo project by Iva Davies, the album was co-produced with Keith Forsey, who contributed additional percussion. Davies took on a multifaceted role, providing vocals, lead guitar, keyboards, and programming the Linn drum machine.
The album marked Icehouse's international breakthrough, featuring the hit single "Hey Little Girl," which reached number 7 in Australia and charted in multiple countries, including Switzerland and Germany. Another notable single, "Great Southern Land," also performed well, peaking in the Australian top 5 and becoming one of the band's signature songs.
To support the album on tour, Davies reassembled Icehouse with a new lineup, introducing members like Bob Kretschmer and Guy Pratt. The album represented a shift from the band's earlier rock sound to a more synth-driven, atmospheric style. This transition is exemplified in tracks like the introspective "Hey Little Girl" and the dance-oriented "Mysterious Thing."
The music video for "Street Café" was filmed in Tunisia, where the crew faced numerous challenges, leading to a memorable but arduous filming experience for Davies. Primitive Man was later re-released as Love in Motion in 1983, with a different track order and cover art. The album remains a significant part of Icehouse's discography, showcasing their evolution as artists.
