Shut La Bouche! (Greatest Hits - La Bouche)

Member Name: benlepensive

Product:	Greatest Hits - La Bouche
Date:	01/09/09 (16 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: solid euro

Disadvantages: samey

La Bouche were at the peak of their fame in the mid nineties. Although they were not hugely successful in the UK, they were very big across Europe. Their music was released in the UK, with some of the singles being released more than once, though they never quite took off.

Tragedy struck the group when singer Melanie Thornton was killed in the 911 disaster a few years back.

'Sweet Dreams' kick starts the proceedings. Delightful vocals wash over the eurodance beat and it whips you up into a frenzy as the synth riffs arrive with gusto. The song brings to mind The Real McCoy and Maxx, both of whom were making similar music at the time. A spicey male rap adds some balance too.

The strongest track is 'Be My Lover' which has a really addictive chorus, in which Melanie sings 'La da da dee da da da' over and over. It sounds hideous, but it is actually catchy stuff and will be nagging away in your head for most of the day.

'Fallin' In Love' offers up something more subdued. A mid tempo ballad with swooning vocals and rather sickly lyrics. It is well produced but does not have much kick to it. Head to 'SOS' which is quite a feisty affair. The vocals are up to scratch on here and they pulsate over a disco beat; less abrasive than 'Be My Lover' they showcase Thornton's ability to tackle some very high notes too.

'In Your Life' sounds a bit like a Snap song. It starts in a bold fashion then zooms off into a euro riff. I like the bassline in this one and it would get me onto a dancefloor. The best part is the anthemic chorus which is full of lift and positive notions.

The album closes with the sumptuous 'You Won't Forget Me' which is an apt title. A sterling vocal drives it forward and it is a perfect closer to a solid selection of euro dance.

16 tracks and average cover artwork complete the package.

Summary: not bad