The first of two albums by the Damned featuring both the guitar and songwriting work of original guitarist Brian James, Damned Damned Damned is an entertaining blast of brisk first wave UK punk still, from its messy album cover photo to Nick Lowe’s unfussy, sharp production. Dave Vanian already shows hints of the horror-movie charisma that would establish him even more strongly, as on the moody build of “Feel The Pain,” but otherwise it’s giddy breakneck catchiness, with “New Rose,” “Neat Neat Neat” and “I Fall” among the great highlights.

– Ned Raggett