This album is #474 on the Rolling Stone list, and if you’d asked me five minutes ago if this was a real album or made up, I wouldn’t have been able to answer. Yet again, a seemingly highly regarded album and artist has completely escaped my notice my entire life. I have no idea what to expect - however, for this album I decided to read up a little before jumping in, just to see how that affects my perception of the music.

The Rolling Stone review compares them to Bowie and Roxy Music, also noting that it “has been cited by countless musicians as a major influence on their careers and playing, including Morrissey (The Smiths), John Frusciante (Red Hot Chili Peppers) & Steve Jones (Sex Pistols)”. Interesting. I’m imagining some funk, some glam, and some off-the-wall guitar, but we shall see.

Off the wall was right. I got strong Bowie vibes from “Thank God It’s Not Christmas,” with the half-falsetto vocals and unusual arrangement. I’d recommend listening to this album with the lyrics pulled up - that made it way more enjoyable and funny at times. Without the lyrics (and perhaps a mind-altering substance) it’s simply a bit odd.

I can see how this influenced a lot artists, though. I think it must have been so unusual and jarring and tongue in cheek when it was released that it made people think a little differently about music. Today it sounds like a distant relic, a weird musical cul-de-sac. But it was enjoyable for the novelty, and I’ll trust the critics about the importance of this album. They normally have a great grasp on that kind of thing.

New Jams

“Hasta Manana, Monsieur”

Originally part of Objectivity In Rating Music, part 2.