The Associates ‎– The Affectionate Punch (1980)

The Affectionate Punch is a 1980 album by Scottish duo The Associates. Joining the team of Billy Mackenzie and Alan Rankine for this debut offering is Cure frontman Robert Smith, who sings backup vocals on the chordally scrambled title-track.

Sporting a clean, refined, and vocally suave sound reflective of the duo’s image, the album is highlighted by the lurching, airy gust of “Deeply Concerned.” 

Tracklist:
A1. The Affectionate Punch
A2. Amused as Always
A3. Logan Time
A4. Paper House
A5. Transport to Central
B1. A Matter of Gender
B2. Even Dogs In The Wild
B3. Would I… Bounce Back
B4. Deeply Concerned
B5. A

Credits:
Billy Mackenzie – vocals
Alan Rankine – guitar, bass, keyboards, miscellany

Robert Smith – backing vocals (A1)
Nigel Glockler – drums
Chris Parry – production