"Downtown Rockers" is an album by the American new wave band Tom Tom Club. Released on September 4, 2012, this album marked the band's return after a 12-year hiatus since their last album release. The album's title track, "Downtown Rockers," is a tribute to the early musicians of the New York music scene, particularly those from the downtown punk and new wave genres of the 1970s and 80s.
The Tom Tom Club was originally formed by husband-and-wife team Chris Frantz and Tina Weymouth, members of the legendary post-punk band Talking Heads, in 1981. While their earlier work had a significant influence on hip hop genre, "Downtown Rockers" sees the band returning to their roots, embracing a more rock-infused sound. The album was appreciated for its energetic and engaging tunes, embodying the raw energy of their early years while showcasing the band's professional evolution. It consists of six unique tracks and five remixes, offering a blending sound that is both retro and contemporary.
This album was recorded at the couple's home studio in Fairfield, Connecticut, and co-produced with Pablo Martin. The songs are rich with catchy, upbeat rhythms and thoughtful lyrics, making this album a valuable addition to the band's discography. The re-emergence of the Tom Tom Club with Downtown Rockers was a testament to their endurance and relevance, even after decades in the music industry.