Producers: Thomas Dolby, Jon Kelly, Paddy McAloon, Andy Richards
Epic
BFE 44208
Intelligent U.K. band should boost its stateside following with this adept
third effort. Cool, simply stated playing propels McAloon's wry, smart songs:
"The King of RockīnīRoll" and stinging "Cars and Girls"
(which takes Springsteen to task) are good bets for alternative airplay. Pete
Townshend guests on "Hey Manhattan".
Framed
by subtle, Dobly-ized production flourishes, this newest and strongest
release from these canny British popsters marks a return to the clever, ethereal
songcraft with which they made their reputation.
Highlights of a distinctive set include the offbeat strains of "Wild
Horses", the poignancy of "We let the stars go", and the good
groove of "Machine Gun Ibiza". Ideal for alternative formats, although
some material is well-suited even for adventorous ACs.
