"Knife," released on September 21, 1984, is the second album by Scottish indie pop group Aztec Camera. It marked a significant moment in their career, reaching number 14 on the UK Albums Chart, their highest position at the time, and also charting at No. 29 in Sweden.
The original release of the album did not include their acoustic cover of "Jump" by Van Halen, which was initially the B-side of the single "All I Need Is Everything." However, due to the cover's growing popularity, it was later added to subsequent pressings of the album, showcasing the band's knack for blending their distinct style with well-known tracks. "Knife" is noted for its melodic pop sound and introspective lyrics, solidifying Aztec Camera's place in the 1980s indie music scene.
Shortly after New Year's Day in 1984, Aztec Camera underwent a significant lineup change, retaining frontman Roddy Frame and bassist Campbell Owens while adding drummer David Ruffy, guitarist Malcolm Ross from Orange Juice, and keyboardist Guy Fletcher of Dire Straits. This shift profoundly influenced Frame's artistic direction.
Drawing inspiration from Elvis Costello, Frame crafted the "far wordier, if no less obsessively introspective canvas" that became Knife, as noted by author Dave Thompson in his book Alternative Rock. The album was produced by Mark Knopfler, further elevating its musical quality; Thompson remarked that the collaboration between Frame and Knopfler "guaranteed musical standards to match Frame's aspirations." This combination helped solidify Knife as a pivotal work in Aztec Camera's discography, showcasing their evolution and ambition during this era.
