Search - Squeeze :: Cosi Fan Tutti Frutti

Interesting Album

Doggymcnuggets | Bedford, IN USA | 10/23/2008

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This mid-eighties release by Squeeze is unique. Most reviewers back in the day gave it low marks primarily due to the cluttered, heavy-handed, and high-tech production by Laurie Latham. Squeeze was primarily revered for its intelligent songwriting and traditional (and often sunny) pop sensibilities and this album was certainly new sonic territory for the band. The organic pop sound of previous Squeeze records is replaced with synths, drum machines, and psychedelic Sgt. Pepper cello/string flourishes, all processed through tons of effects. The overall result is a dark, moody sound that was atypical of Squeeze.



As for the songs themselves, they are strong. Full of odd chord progressions that match the dark mood and make them less accessible than most of the band's other song sets, and tackling heavy subject matter like family strife, alcoholism, broken relationships, etc, this album will take repeated listens to appreciate but is worth it. "By Your Side," "I Learnt How to Pray," and "Last Time Forever" are all darker tunes than just about any Squeeze had done so far but they carry an emotional punch. "Big Beng," "No Place Like Home," and "Break My Heart" are quirky and disjointed but they are intentionally so and are really quite finely crafted tunes. "King George Street," "Heartbreaking World," and "Hits of the Year" are more straightforward melodically and are all quite good.



While this isn't the typical Squeeze, it is still good and deserves more credit than it has received. Not the best place to start if you're just getting into the band (see "East Side Story"), but for fans willing to explore new territory with the band this album has its rewards."

One of my favorite Squeeze albums

DKDC | Washington, DC USA | 07/29/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"No - it isn't as good as argy bargy or east side story, but it is very good and sounds very different from those albums. The 2007 rerelease with "extra tracks" is just one extra track - a live version of 'loves crashing waves' - from the Difford and Tilbrook duo album. Not worth the cost since the original is now available at not too steep a price. I have not heard the disc - maybe the sound is better - but it was pretty good on the original disc."

My Favorite Squeeze Album

Michael Goldman | East Rockaway, NY United States | 08/01/2007

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This album didn't sell and I rarely heard anything from it on the radio. Nonetheless, it's maybe my favorite album by Squeeze, (compilations not included).



What was originally Side 1 is especially good. Dark but good. Don't get any ideas though.



Good luck getting your hands on one of these babies.





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