In a Place Like This is the first LP by the Payolas, released in 1981.

[3] The band supported the album with a Canadian tour that included shows with ZZ Top.

[4] The Boston Globe wrote: "Payolas are a solid, competent band whose hard-driving punkish pop and socially conscious lyrics recall music made three years ago by the Clash and the Boomtown Rats.

Although they make a valiant attempt at becoming another major new wave voice, Payolas fall a bit short, mainly because they aren't quite as good as either of the bands they sound like.

"[6] Trouser Press opined that the album "is political (but not preachy), offering sophisticated punk with reggae seasoning, which makes it again reminiscent of the Clash without being derivative.