"New Musik" that ages well
D. Hartley | Seattle, WA USA | 04/13/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Early 80's synth-pop at its very best. Group leader/producer Tony Mansfield has never been given proper credit for helping pave the way for the more commercially successful acts of the genre (Gary Numan,OMD, Howard Jones,Modern English, New Order & Co). U.S. music fans should rejoice that "Anywhere", (along with the equally fine "From A To B") is now available from Amazon, as previously we've had to make do with a lone,long out-of-print LP ("Sanctuary") that combined several cuts from each of the aforementioned U.K.-only releases. At any rate, synth-pop fans will revel in the sound-- a catchy, airy drum-machine/keyboard/acoustic guitar pastiche combined with a sometimes wistful, dreamy, Lennonesque melancholy in the vocal. Mansfield certainly doesn't write your typical "love you baby" lyrics ("They All Run After The Carving Knife" will probably never be covered by Celene Dion). Many of the songs have an enigmatic and recurring architectural/geographical theme ("Areas", "Churches", "Back To Room One"). With the recent "vintage synth" sound revival, perhaps New Musik will enjoy a rediscovery by a new generation of music fans."
Extremely extraordinary - glad it's available
Jeffrey J. Lyons | Pembroke, NH United States | 04/12/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"What a thrill it was to find an affordable copy of this long overlooked irrepressible techno-pop classic. Sure, the recording technology of 1980-81 cannot compare to the recording quality of today. Granted there are a few thin synth spots, lots of electronic beeps and blips, and a very obvious electronic drum kit. Forget all of that. Listen to what Tony Mansfield and company were attempting. Catchy melodies, experiments in sound, inoffensive, simple lyrics, and truly visionary of what the 80's and the 90's would ultimately branch off into. This has always been one of my all time favorite pop albums. I bought the original when it came out in 1981. Stand out songs include: "Churches," "While You Wait," "Changing Minds," and "Back to Room One." All the other are just plain good. Also included here are the B-sides to the two 45's released from the original album. Interesting that "From the Village" is sort of a tribute to one of my all time favorite TV shows, "The Prisoner." Be seeing you..."
Stop reading and get this CD now
Frayo | North Carolina | 01/24/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"They all run after the carving knife is one of the coolest songs in the world. The office is the best track on the CD.Another highlight: Luxury
Another album to get by New Musick is WarpThe ultimate in 80s synth. I love this album with a passion. I loved it so muc, I learned most of the keyboard parts to it. Its a perfect CD to drive away your Christian Pop listenin roommate while he tries to sleep. Awsome CD. You'll find these tracks appearing a lot on the live journal.
Peacewww.livejournal.com/users/frayo"
Track Listings (15) - Disc #1