Boo Radleys in General

Review also posted on Ciao As the 80s dragged itself into the 90s, one ill-looking band ruled the insular indie roost: My Bloody Valentine, who had the utter misfortune to become the unfortunate forefathers and harbingers of the 'shoegazing' scene. The Boo Radleys, although never completely seen as shoegazers, released their debut mini-album, Ichabod and I, on a small Northern indie label called Action Records, and were clearly held in thrall by the crazed sounds that their guitar pedals could create. Listening to the tracks that open this chronological collection ('Catweazle' and 'Happens To Us All'), this doesn’t seem such a good start. There are tunes here ...  Read the complete review

Boo Radley's? Didn't their contribution to good music begin and end with "Lazarus" off of 'Giant Steps'? Well, no. Nothing else they did attracted the same attention as that platter, and they kind of fizzled out after that. This, their last album (and one of the last worthwhile releases on Creation) didn't seem to do too much. For my money, this probably isn't a better record than 'Giant Steps', though the poppier offerings are more polished, more sophisticated than the high-points on 'Wake Up Boo!' Just check the Barry-esque arrangements on "The Old Newstand At Hamilton Square", or the ...  Read the complete review

One Giant Leap For Mankind For many the Boo Radleys will always be remembered for their throwaway hit 'Wake up Boo'. This song does not even come close to defining what an important band they were. Its success proved to be a double edged sword. Those looking for more of the same were disappointed, while those looking for something a bit more tangible would have been put off. Martin Carr, much admired drinker and now steering the Brave Captain ship was able to conjure melodies at will and provided the ammunition for Sice's magnetic choirboy vocals. 'Giant Steps' released in 1993 represents the Boo's at their imperious zenith and ...  Read the complete review