Sparks

 

I first got into them via a Circus magazine review of the then-new Propaganda, back in what, 1974?

The review made them sound like good fun, and they sure were! Falsetto vocals, very funny, clever lyrics, and they RAWKED! From there, I went back to their classic (and perhaps best) Kimono My House, then got Indiscreet and Big Beat as they came out. I got all of my friends into them -- my buddy even saw them live in London during the Propaganda tour.

 

I lost touch with the band during their disco/dance era (I always liked their rocking guitar and Rickenbacker bass sound), and these days I only have Propaganda and Kimono My House on CD. I'd like to get the ultra-loopy Indiscreet as well, and I understand the recent Hello Young Lovers was a really good return to form for the "Brothers Mael," though I haven't heard it yet.

 

I just watched your video link for the 70s-era "This Town" and that led me to watching another one of them doing the same hit in 2008. Boy, they've still got it, haven't they? Ron looks much the same (a stiff unsmiling Hitler-meets-Chaplin at the keys), and while Russel may have lost the mane of curls, the voice is still very much there! Complex lyrics to remember, as well -- very impressive!

 

They spoke of an even newer album -- obviously, I need to check in with Sparks again!

 

Thanks for sharing, and for the wonderful memories! Sparks sure were/are unique! I can't see a new band like them getting a contract (let alone filling concert halls) today!