The Glamour Kings, Long Island, New York natives, had an instant appeal for this writer. While their lyrics are not Earth shattering or particularly politically-fused comments, the words certainly strike the listener as thoughtful and comprehensive. In the prolific CD Front Row Seat To The End Of The World the Glamour Kings prove they can rock and create dance worthy songs, at the same time, encouraging the listener to think outside the box.
Duran Duran's Electric Barberella Meets Faith No More
The first track "Invest In Heaven" is somewhere between Duran Duran's Electric Barberella album, Faith No More and level five of the Double Dragon video game. The fast arrangement is heavily synthesized and the tight arrangement is fun. This song is great because the band did not bite off more than it could chew - the words are meaty, the song has spunk and a catchy chorus.
In "Generation Creed" has the same social messaging, this need to comment on the state of the world. The soul of the song is appreciated and the fast-paced, aggressive production takes a slightly different path than "Invest in Heaven." This song seems darker. "I Marry Money (Rebecca)" is danceable - yes - but has this different beat to it that is more of a sway than all out spasm. The song bridge has this heightened sense of electricity, while the refrain is perfectly timed.
In "Love, Kids, Marriage" the Glamour Kings take an interesting take on keeping up with the Joneses. The song is a bit close to Soft Cell and other New Wave songs. As the songs progress - "Sunday School," "Propaganda Obama," "Love You When You're Dead" the songs continue this sheer electrified, almost cartoonish fun. In "Night of Frankenstein" the backbeat is almost a bit cheeky. This song must explode onto dance floors in chic clubs.
Overall CD Review is A
Overall, this CD gets a solid A. There are many songs on this CD - and at times the pattern is evident. But, this writer is quite impressed with the subject matter and the song arrangements; these guys have some quirky ideas. The unexpected song "Cleopatra (F*ck Of The Century)" is insanely good. Strange, yes, but very good.
Listeners that enjoy Fountains of Wayne, Duran Duran, The Killers, Faith No More, Right Said Fred, Soft Cell, Violent Femmes and the Gorillaz will want to check out The Glamour Kings' Front Row Seat To The End Of The World.
Melissa Kucirek - Melissa L. Kucirek M.A. University of Nebraska - Omaha (2004) B.A. University of Nebraska - Omaha (2001) I'm a freelance writer ...
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