Oh Erasure, where did our love go? In this age of 80's remakes and 80's bands taking another stab at what put them on the map, Erasure's position is unique. Unlike Depeche Mode and other bands that moved through the 90's with a certain grace, Erasure hasn't been that visible in the US, aside from one of their hits on the radio now and again.
A new release might conjure up an image of Andy Bell's polished vocals coupled with synthmaster Vincent Clarke's signature sound revamped with a techno twist without relinquishing what makes Erasure. And as this is a cover album of songs singers as diverse as Elvis Presley and the Boggles, even better! Sadly, that is not the case. While the sound is unmistakably Erasure, it hasn't been updated. The result is more curious than must-have.
Highlights of the record include a sleek version of Peter Gabriel's "Solsbury Hill". 60's hit "Everyday" is a great choice and sounds like it's just been waiting to be Erasurized. Elvis Presley's "Can't Help Falling in Love is another version of a song that will be remade into infinity and beyond but thanks to Bell's sentimental vocals is touching nonetheless.
And then the kitch begins. Maybe it's tongue in cheek and just plain fun, but it's more evocative of karaoke. Just listen to the synths on Buddy Holly's "True Love Ways". The Righteous Brothers "You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'" is fun enough, but that's one of those songs that's still heard far too often to illicit any real joy. "Video Killed The Radio Star" is an odd choice, quite frankly, and a disappointing carbon copy of the original. And while the production of "Walking in the Rain" sounds faded, it's certainly an interesting choice lyrically that would fit into Jack's CD player on Will and Grace.
Erasure certainly haven't lost their knack for painting musical pictures of cheery rainbows, but maybe it's time to drop some of the neon for more nuanced color.
Erasure Other People's Songs
