Pulling Rabbits Out of A Hat

Conjuring fresh and original material out of thin air can be as tricky as pulling rabbits out a hat. But that’s just what Ron and Russell Mael of Sparks have been doing throughout their extraordinary career. The talented duo came to fame with ‘This Town Ain’t Big Enough For The Both Of Us’ in 1974 and went to create many more hit singles and extraordinary albums. ‘Pulling Rabbits Out Of A Hat’ is a fine example of their post-disco period, when they were moving into the realms of novelty electronica pop. And if that sounds a convoluted description of their art, that’s because Sparks have always been difficult to categorise - so why bother categorising! Just enjoy these eleven quirky and entrancing performances from a 1984 album that has Ron Mael let loose on hi-tech synthesizers and Russell singing with all his high pitched charm. Check out ‘Pretending To Be Drunk’ and ‘Kiss Me Quick’, with lyrics devoted to the odder aspects of love relationships, and tune into the freaky instrumental track ‘Sparks In The Dark’. The CD has detailed liner notes, original artwork and is expanded with 5 bonus tracks. Our verdict?....Big hat. Bigger rabbit!! 1984 recording from a group that is difficult to musically categorise, but always remained innovative, pioneering and much admired by generations of electro-pop musicians. This album is post-disco period Sparks, as they let loose on high tech synths and moved their quirky and entrancing songs into the electronic pop arena. Includes 5 bonus tracks from 1984 - 5 extended versions of songs from the album. Booklet with authoritative liner notes by respected author and journalist Chris Welch. Expertly remastered – superb sound - top quality reproduction. The best in the business!