In a recent deep-dive video feature on Lou Gramm, a classic band dynamic the narrative is framed instead as classic rock-and-roll tragedy. The story goes that Gramm, the powerhouse voice behind Foreigner’s legendary anthems, was being “suppressed” by band leader Mick Jones. While Gramm wanted to keep the band’s feet firmly planted in the grit … Read more
In 1987, the musical landscape was shifting toward a digital horizon, and Manchester-based trio Living in a Box arrived with a debut that was less of a traditional “band” effort and more of a masterclass in FM synthesis. Formed by keyboardist Marcus Vere and Anthony Critchlow, the group found their voice, literally, after two failed … Read more
In 1987, the independent label 4AD made a gamble that shouldn’t have worked. And it didn’t. They paired two wildly different acts, the ethereal “dream-pop” duo A.R. Kane and the sample-heavy industrial group Colourbox, for a collaboration. The goal wasn’t to create a polished radio hit; in fact, the members of A.R. Kane specifically stated … Read more
There are many ways to start a band. One way, apparently, is to decide you’re a good-looking guy with talent and place an ad in a paper looking for other guys with the same qualifications. This is how the band Kajagoogoo began. Kajagoogoo means ‘good-looking guys’ in baby talk. The band started a bit of … Read more
Song: Brandy Artist: Looking Glass (1972) Album: Looking Glass (Epic) For a one-hit wonder, Looking Glass scored a huge one. Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl) was tremendously popular and is still a soft radio classic, not to mention a staple of Karaoke. It was, in fact, so big that it caused Barry Manilow to rename his song … Read more