NEW MUSIC EAR : Album Reviews

THE POLIC E "REGGATTA DE BLANC" 1979     MESSAGE IN A BOTTLE - One of the first songs I heard of The Police as an 11 year old lad.  One of those songs that stay in your head.  Great guitar Pop Rock with a repetitive engaging drumbeat and pumping bass.  Add to that a catchy chorus and this couldn't fail to be a hit.  The guitar melody throughout is similar to that of Blue Oyster Cult's "Don't Fear The Reaper".     REGGATTA DE BLANC - The title track is a mostly experimental instrumental Ska/Reggae/Rock crossover with various tribal chants by Sting.  It is almost Punk sounding in parts too. IT'S ALRIGHT FOR YOU - This is a punchy pumping Punk/Mod Rock hybrid based on a repetitive drumbeat and guitar riff.  A foot tapper if nothing else. BRING ON THE NIGHT - A New Wave/Reggae Pop track, it is quirky bu pretty unremarkable. DEATHWISH - A funky Ska based track that bounces along nicely until the drums kick up a beat a

MEN AT WORK "BUSINESS AS USUAL" 1981   WHO CAN IT BE NOW? - The debut single opens this first album by the Australian New Wave band.  Elements of Ska and Pop combine in this bouncy track, ironically about paranoia and seclusion! The saxophone by Greg Ham and singer Colin Hay's vocal interplay are masterful and ingenious.  Great track and should have been a bigger hit in the UK. I CAN SEE IT IN YOUR EYES - A typical New Wave Pop Rock song akin to the The Cars and The Police.  Some delightful guitar keeps this engaging. DOWN UNDER - The massive global hit, a number 1 in the UK and the USA and many other countries.  The quirky Reggae style and comical lyrical content plus the hilarious video made this a favourite on MTV.  An absolute classic 80s track and the most famous by the band.   UNDERGROUND - Another New Wave Pop Rock track that unlike "I Can See It In Your Eyes" doesn't need saving by guitar.  A great composition all round and brilliant track. HELP