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Roxy Music - Avalon |
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ALBUM REVIEWSPick of the Chick: Our Favorite Releases, 1999-Present |
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Back in the '80s, I worked at a local college radio station. It was rumored that one of the DJs brought his girlfriend into the studio for a "little action" during his shift. The guy was too busy messing with his girlfriend to spin tunes, so he played one album in its entirety during his shift--Roxy Music's Avalon. For the counter culture, Avalon was the premier make-out album of the '80s. Originally released in 1982, Avalon marked a departure from the quirky, prog-tinged pop the band made in the '70s. This album is much smoother. Reverb and echo effects give Avalon a deep-sounding, dreamy quality--like it was recorded in the recesses of lead-singer Brian Ferry's love den. On classic tracks like "More Than This," "Avalon," and "Take A Chance With Me," soft keyboard sounds create a mellow atmosphere. Guitarist Phil Manzanera and Saxophonist Andy Mackay add sonic flourishes to the mix, while Ferry tops the songs off with his one-of-a-kind romantic crooning. The Virgin label has recently remastered the entire Roxy Music catalogue (with the exception of High Road). Although all of the Roxy Music albums have their shining moments, Avalon is the crown jewel of the catalogue. Just handle this one with care. It's more of an aphrodisiac than a plate full of Viagra-laced oysters. PIGEONHOLE: Dreamy '80s alt-pop.
Andrew Helminger |
ROXY MUSIC
