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The B-52s - Funplex

March 17th, 2008

The B-52s Funplex cover

Official Site: http://www.theb52s.com
Official MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/theB52s

by Bambi Weavil

Loud, savvy and traditionally nontraditional, The B-52s are back with their first record of the 21st century called Funplex, being released on March 25th. Pumping rock and dance with their trademark vocal interplay between Kate Pierson, Fred Scheider, Keith Strickland and Cindy Wilson is showcased all over this album. There isn’t any point in this album where the mood isn’t upbeat and fun.

“Pump” and “Hot Corner” could easily be considered the call to auction to turn up the volume and ‘last call for action’ shout out songs. I can’t help but love a song that says “he’s a mess but he’s really pretty.” “Juliet of the Spirits” is just beautiful, describing a force of nature that should let her pleasure free - it could be a person, it could be a goddess - or both. I’d actually love to see Stevie Nicks cover”Juliet of the Spirits.”

I love the constant juxtapose of “Funplex” which is a fun poke at society in general right now. “Eyes Wide Open” is the trademark styling that’s made The B-52s apart of culture - the constant vocal styling repetition that is almost hypnotic. “Deviant Ingredient” would make a great music video, and I believe this will be a crowd favorite on their tour with lyrics like “I found my strip naked soul soup / With the deviant ingredients.” “Keep This Party Going” ends the album in the spirit that the album and The B-52s represents - partying and mixing punk rock and roll, pop, new wave and dance in what could be this Spring’s surprise hit comeback.