ISMISM [AKA: SNACK ATTACK]

Titled "Ismism" throughout the world except the USA where it was bizarrely re-titled "Snack attack", this may well be Godley and Crème's most accessible release.

Here we have two of Godley and Crème's best known songs, both of which were major hit singles. It took the duo many more years than I am sure they had anticipated to rediscover a formula which would send them back in the singles charts. Then, like the buses, along come two at once. "Under your thumb" is undoubtedly Godley and Crème's best recording of their entire career. Lyrically, the song is of the "I'm Mandy, fly me" type, telling a mysterious did it/didn't it happen story. The double paced rhythm throughout is a real masterstroke of production, the track having a real urgency while all the while adopting a dual identity.

"Wedding bells" is a highly orthodox pop song with straightforward "get me out of here" lyrics. The song has a real 10CC feel to it, proving that Godley and Crème could revert to such a style when they wanted to.

The opening "Snack attack" (which gives the US release its name), could well be described as rap, the song having a Pet Shop Boys ("West End Girls") feel. Saxophonist Bimbo Acock, the only artists other than G&C to appear on the album, adds some drifting sax to this extended rhythmic chant.

Unfortunately, it is by no means all good news, with tracks such as "Joey's camel" reminding us that the duo are frequently prone to putting cleverness before creating something which is actually listenable. If "Joey's camel" was bad for this, "The problem" takes things to a whole new height. Here we have one of those brainteasers, apparently requiring endless mathematical calculation, recited rap style and resulting in the question posed in the above heading. It really is all so pointless and excruciatingly dull. The latter part of the track is really a separate entity repeating the tedious mantra "The room is ready for Ralph".

"Lonnie" yet a again utilises the by now frankly annoying spoken word method of delivery. If it was not for Bimbo Acock's incisive sax bursts the track would have no redeeming features whatsoever. "Sale of the century" is a much more appealing retro ballad, marred only by the rather muffled vocals. The lyrics of the closing 8 minute "The party" describe what may well have been a real experience at such an event. With conversation stoppers such as "I don't like your stuff very much. . . I prefer a gentle and melodic touch" and ". . write yourselves a hit or three like "I'm not in Paris" or "The dean and me"". While the lyrics are undoubtedly amusing in a cringe-worthy way, once again the mumbled semi-spoken delivery completely destroys any potential for enjoyment.

In all, another album by Godley and Crème which has clearly been put together with an eye for detail, but which ultimately fails. Aside from the two irresistible singles, "Ismism" is an exercise in self indulgence and missed opportunities. A difficult album to rate given the extreme highs and lows.

By the way, I don't believe the bath will ever fill, the plug's not in.

Share this GODLEY & CREME review

Social review comments () BETA

---

---

Review related links

• Send comments to Easy Livin
• Report this review (#165525)
• Buy GODLEY & CREME music online with PA partners
• Show all GODLEY & CREME MP3/Stream
• Go to GODLEY & CREME page for videos, full discography with ratings, reviews and much more
• Go to Ismism [Aka: Snack Attack] page for more details, where to buy and ratings/reviews
• Search the Forum for GODLEY & CREME related discussions