Yes, I have the mullet and parachute pants pictures that prove I graduated from high school in 1985. And that’s why I try really hard to steer people away from the notion that ’80s retro is a good idea. But every now and again somebody sifts though the cultural horrors of the Reagan era and strikes gold. Though not exactly an ’80s revival band, Memphis’ The Clears borrowed heavily (and often brilliantly) from the synth-driven side of new wave, as did Portland’s The Epoxies, one of my favorite turn of the 21st Century bands. Now Memphis’ Twin Pilot has recorded The Sound of Love, a CD that sounds like some extraordinary union of the Psychedelic Furs and the Suicide Twins rocked up with a dash of guitar goth and the faintest memory of Simple Minds.
If you listen close to some of the longer droning passages on The Sound of Love you may even hear a famous arpeggio or two buried in the mix.
Just in case my commentary has lead anybody to believe that Twin Pilot is some bunch of gutless synth-pop revivalists it might be helpful to mention that TP features Harry Koniditsiotis of the Angel Sluts on vocals and guitars. So there’s nothing gutless about it. But don’t take my word for it, have a listen.
Then go check out their CD release party tonight (9/11/09) at Murphy’s with special guest Holly Cole.
