Tom Tom Club began life as a side project in 1981, formed by husband-and-wife team Chris Frantz and Tina Weymouth, known for being the drummer and bass player, respectively, of Talking Heads. The band adopted a light, tropical dance style that is evident on this album, which eventually reached gold album sales. Critics rave about this album, so I guess I just don't understand it. Genius Of Love is one of my favorite songs of the '80s, but I don't think this holds up as an album. I don't hate it; I just don't like it much.
Press of the time:
- Rolling Stone (★★★½): "light but learned entertainment"
- Smash Hits (6½ out of 10): "gets a mite monotonous"
- Stereo Review: "trendy drivel"
- Trouser Press: "maybe they'll try something more ambitious"
- Robert Christgau (A-): "I enjoy every cut"
Album chart peaks:
- US Billboard 200: #23
- CashBox: #21
- Rolling Stone: #20
Tracks: Genius Of Love is the best cut. The long version of Genius Of Love is the second-best cut.
Personal Memory Associated with this CD: You haven't fully enjoyed the glory of Genius Of Love until you've seen 50+ people in a country/western club line dancing to it. "Who needs to think when your feet just go?"
It's been awhile since I heard this one all the way through but I remember it as a good listen.
ReplyDeleteCannot say the same for their follow-up albums, though.
Adding it to Summer Playlist