Recorded in 1982, this was to be the band's fourth album in four years for CBS, but sadly it was never released, until now. The album appears as it was originally intended, with some bonus tracks, including some demos by band pianist and songwriter Peter Banks.
The music is new wave pop/rock of the polished variety. Opener 'Young Love' kicks off with a touch of 50s rock'n'roll (the kind that might be found in a 70s stage show) mixed with AOR. Young love is like a battery, apparently!
'Step By Step' is more new wave, and 'Don't Say Goodbye' is slow, strong with intricate keyboards. There's an element of the Police to 'Who Do You Think You?'.
Highlight of the album is the instrumental '1984-F', the opening chords reminiscent of Keith Emerson's take on 'Nutrocker Suite'. Uptempo and thoroughly enjoyable.
The album is good, polished, but not consistent with few outstanding highlights.
Well packaged with extensive notes and band photos do make for a good package that will please fans.
***** Out of this world | **** Pretty
damn fine |
*** OK, approach with caution unless you are a fan |
** Instant bargain bin fodder | * Ugly. Just ugly
