Tropical Gangsters is the third studio album by Kid Creole & The Coconuts, released in 1982 on Ze Records, with UK distribution via Island Records.
The album continues August Darnell’s stylised fusion of new wave, Latin rhythms, swing, funk, cabaret, and post‑punk pop, presented with theatrical flair and sharp lyrical wit. While more streamlined than earlier releases, it retains the band’s signature retro‑modern aesthetic and dance‑floor sophistication.
Key tracks include Annie, I’m Not Your Daddy, I’m a Wonderful Thing, Baby, Imitation, and I’m Corrupt. Production was handled by August Darnell, maintaining the polished yet playful sound that made the group one of the most distinctive acts of the early 1980s.
This copy is a UK pressing, identifiable by:
Pink Ze Records label
Catalogue number ILPS 7016
Stereo, 33⅓ RPM
℗ 1982 original sound recording
“Licensed through Island Records Ltd”
“Island Music Ltd” publishing credit
The iconic sleeve artwork — featuring the band posed as stylised gangsters with tropical styling — is one of the most recognisable images of early‑1980s art‑pop and New York new‑wave culture.
Format: 12” LP
Label: Ze Records
Catalogue No.: ILPS 7016
Country: UK
Year: 1982
Condition: VG+ / VG+
