B52's odd album delivers (Time Capsule: The Greatest Hits - The B-52's)

Member Name: benlepensive

Product:	Time Capsule: The Greatest Hits - The B-52's
Date:	28/02/09 (38 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: love shack

Disadvantages: odd lyrics

This lot have always intrigued me, with their own brand of quirky pop music, never sliding easily into one specific genre. They have had a handful of hits, only one big hit single in the UK, yet continue to put out albums. This album gather some of their bigger hits.

Who are they:

US based group who have been around since the late seventies. They specialise in off the wall guitar pop, with a punky edge.

Highlights:

'Planet Claire' is a weird enough start, with zany sounding vocals and a tune which does not really click. I believe it is Fred on vocals here and his sneering voice does not seem to work with the lyrics, as he sings of a girl from another planet. There is a strong punk undercurrent running through this track.

'Rock Lobster' is the kind of song you could have a knees up to, with a chanty sounding chorus section and enthused vocals from Kate. It makes me think of Martha and The Muffins.

The obvious choice would be to head to the accessible 'Love Shack'. This track has become a staple part of a playlist down at the local friday night disco. It benefits from a cheerful set of verses and a thunderous chorus which encourages the listener to join in. The catchy pop appeal of this song gave them a big hit and it has stood the test of time.

I rather like the mellow 'Roam' which has a suitably wandering melody and slightly enigmatic vocals, which wail and duck and dive all over the place.

Their cover of 'Meet The Flinstones' is a short sharp burst of pop rock with tongue firmly in cheek, not one to play loads, but a small dose every now and then will make you grin.

Overall:

15 tracks and some stylish artwork add some clout to the package. An unusual group with odd yet interesting songs.

Summary: odd pop