Thursday, May 29, 2008

ABC - The Lexicon of Love (LP, 1982)

When I'm feeling particularly cynical, I have no problem writing Martin Fry off as nothing more than a poor man's Bryan Ferry. But, in the end, I don't think that's giving him enough credit. While he has certainly cribbed some of Ferry's moves, he plays up more of a thwarted wuss angle, and it works well for him.

Any semi-extensive knowledge I have of ABC pretty much begins and ends with this record, but as I sit here and listen to it, I can see why it was such a big hit back in '82. It manages to be both poppy and slightly sophisticated, while also incorporating some pretty ambitious arrangements.

And, when it comes down to it, "The Look of Love (Part One)" is just a delight to listen to.

"Poison Arrow"

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