Search - Graham Parker :: Mona Lisa's Sister

The Maturation of an Artist

Barry Ellis | Pittsburgh, PA United States | 09/14/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Long considered by MOST GP fans as one of the three best albums done by him (along with "Squeezing Out Sparks", 1979's Rolling Stone Critic's pick for album of the year and 1996's "Acid Bubblegum", his last studio effort), "The Mona Lisa's Sister" signalled the arrival of GP as a truly independant artist as well as the resurgence (in quality at least) of a somewhat moribound career. While his loyal fans enjoyed his work of the early-mid 80's, it did seem as his sense of direction and earlier commitment to his music was somewhat lacking. "Mona Lisa" was GP's first TOTALLY personal record and established the pattern he was to follow for the rest of his career, making records that make HIM happy and all of his fans have benefitted from that artistic genesis. "Mona Lisa" includes some of his absolute greatest songs, and every song is an heartfelt and riveting performance. Some reviewers have quibbled with Buddha's remastering here, but I thank it really does a lot for the lower end which was somewhat subdued on the earlier production. A matter of taste, but a truly wonderful record regardless of which mix you prefer. As readers of GP's website (found at punkhart.com) know, it is a mystery when or if GP is going to release a new studio album. Myriad label changes and a refusal to subvert his musical philosophy have led to diminished sales and recognition over the years. I consider GP to be in the same league as Van Morrison and Bob Dylan as a song writer/performer. Unbelievers only need to peruse his work of the past 20 plus years and they MIGHT be converted, or at least acknowledge that GP is one of the most underrated and underappreciated artists of his time."

Probably GP's best of the '80's

J. Powell | New York, NY United States | 06/26/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"After Squeezing Out Sparks, GP released his last album with the Rumour "The Up Escalator" (now out of print) in 1980 and spent most of the 80's putting out very uneven albums, hitting rock bottom with "Steady Nerves"But in 1988, he turned things around and released this brilliant album.This is almost as good as GP's golden era (1976-79) - not quite, but almost. "Back In Time" may be the most poetic song he has ever written, though. It epitomizes the music of GP - cynical but beautiful."

Strong effort a repeated listen

Motown J | San Ramon, CA United States | 09/08/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Tremendous album which gets better and better with each listen. "Get Started (Start A Fire)" is an explosive single which did well on radio. The only disappointment when this album was released was that more songs did not make it to radio. Every song is a keeper, and you will not be disappointed with this disc."