 |
Free Music Notes for The B-52'sFree Music Review: Dance This Mess Around! Hit: 5 StarsHas it really been 20 years since I first heard the B-52's self-released "Rock Lobster" 45 at my local record store; first saw Kate and Cindy in their bouffant wigs and Fred with his toy piano and walkie-talkie doing "all 16 dances" at my local new-wave bar; first fell in love with the B's beach-party movie blend of camp and kitsch that combined Henry Mancini, Duane Eddy, Petula Clark and Yma Sumac??? This record changed my life in 1979; my tastes in thrift store clothing, garage sale records, cheesy movies and, above all, DANCING began with the B-52's, and my approach to guitar playing was directly influenced by Ricky Wilson - his death in the 80's affected me more profoundly than John Lennon's. Twenty years after its release, this record can still make this shy tuna dance like almost no other. This is the one I'd need on my desert island for "twistin' round the fire, havin' fun..."
Free Music Review: Can I give this record six stars? Hit: 5 StarsI have owned this record since it came out (in '79?). Has there ever been another record that combines such clever lyrics with unfailingly dance-able music? I think not. Try "Planet Claire," with its Peter Gunn-like rhythm track and references to the 60's commercialization of space exploration ("She drove a Plymouth Sat-e-llite, faster than the speed of light."). Try "Dance this mess around," with Fred and Cindy naming about a dozen types of unusual dances (presumably from their native Athens, GA scene). Try "Lava," with Ricky's guitar building over and over to the inevitible eruption while Fred and the girls trade come-on lines (Fred: "I'm gonna jump in a crater." Cindy and Kate: "See ya later."). For a little introspection, try "Hero Worship," which chronicles a fan's obsession from her point of view ("A lock of hair, a belt he wore. It's not enough, I need more."). We all learn a lesson about idols wheh she comes to the realization that "... He deserves it. I deserve it." Of course, no review of this record would be complete without a nod to "Rock Lobster." Is it possible to hear this song and not dance? No song has ever evoked "The Beach Party" more successfully or completely. Fred rambles on about a fateful day at the beach while Cindy and Kate chime in with their best girl-group harmonies... and all the while Ricky's syncopated surf guitar carries us along for the ride, insisting that we shake it. "Love Shack" may be a better known party tune, but this one is the first, the best, the ultimate. That sentiment goes for the entire record. This CD is a party-in-a-jewel-box. One final note: When you get this disc in your player, be sure to follow the directions that were boldly printed on the original album's label, "PLAY LOUD."
Free Music Review: This album is da BOMB. Even I can dance to this! Hit: 5 StarsI can't say how much I love this album! It has so many gems, the most successful being "Planet Claire," "52 Girls," and "Rock Lobster." The album has 6 other gems to spare, which means that I can't say how much I love every song on this LP. I purchased it yesterday at a flea market, and it's stayed on my turntable since. From Kate Pierson's trashy organ cords, to Cindy Wilson's intense screaming on "Dance this Mess Around," and the rather disrespectful cover of "Downtown," the album remains a gem in its own right, and should be purchased by everyone! It's just one of those albums, like "Thriller" or the "Flashdance" soundtrack. Anyway, the bottom line is, buy this album on whatever you can, whether it be vinyl (on which it sounds wonderful), cassette, or CD, you need to own this!!!!
Free Music Review: A Must Party Album Hit: 5 StarsI was too young to appreciate this album when it came out. It is a must for any party, any punk rock fan, and for any hard core B-52 fan. Their sound is distinct from the late 80's Cosmic Thing or early 90's Good Stuff, but nonetheless just as catchy. "Planet Claire" "Dance This Mess Around" and "Rock Lobster" are unforgettable classics. This is a must buy!
More Free Music Notes: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
|
 |
|
|
|