Martha & The Muffins - Metro Music (1980) [RS, MU]

An incredible debut album, and one that both stands the test of time and serves as an excellent sampler of a distinct era and sound called new wave. Hailing from Toronto, though recorded in England by Mike Howlett, the Marthas (there were two Marthas in the original lineup, Johnson and Ladly), and their Muffins recorded energetic and fun pop songs. Just try standing still during the brilliant "Echo Beach" or "Paint By Number Heart." They also managed to write some pretty powerful and intelligent lyrics on this album; just listen to the beauty of "Saigon," featuring haunting vocals from the Marthas, and excellent playing from the band. Mark Gane stands out with his distinctive guitar, featured prominently throughout the album, and Andy Haas provides some very catchy, memorable sax solos. The album also features witty, almost silly songs, such as "Cheesies and Gum," simplistic and hilarious, with a heavy dance beat. Perhaps the only negative aspect of the album is the production; Howlett at times seems to want to focus on the pure pop aspect, while not allowing the band to have their own distinct sound. It is the production that dates the album, but nevertheless, the brilliance of the songs shines through.
Genre - Rock
Styles - New Wave
Time - 39:43
Format - mp3@192 Kbps
Size - 55 mb
Tracks
01. Echo Beach
02. Paint by Number Heart
03. Saigon
04. Indecision
05. Terminal Twilight
06. Hide and Seek
07. Monotone
08. Sinking Land
09. Revenge (Against the World)
10. Cheesies And Gum
Credits
Martha Johnson (keyboards, vocals)
Martha Ladly (keyboards, treble, trombone, vocals)
Mark Gane (guitar, synthesizer)
Andy Haas (saxophone)
Carl Finkle (bass)
Tim Gane, Mick Kent (drums)
Label
MSI Music Distribution, 1980
links
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