ALBUM OF THE WEEK # 48 THE OUTFIELD - PLAY DEEP (1985)

[RJhog (Admin)]

 

This week we journey back to 1985 for some British Pop Rock.  I may be the only one here of this opinion, but I think The Outfield's Play Deep is really a pop masterpiece.  There isn't one bad song on the album.   According to Wikipedia, the album is certified Triple Platinum, which isn't too shabby.  There were 4 singles released (Say It Isn't So, Your Love, All The Love and Everytime You Cry), with Your Love making it as high as number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.  I do remember hearing 3 of the singles on the radio, but I honestly can't remember hearing Everytime You Cry on the radio.

 

As I said earlier, what you have here is basic British Power Pop.  And I like it.  If you listen closely, you can even hear some similarities in some of the guitar playing to that of The Edge (U2).  Check out the song I Don't Need Her and see if you agree with me.   Another thing that works well for me on this album is the multi-tracked vocals.  The two slower tempo songs, while I actually like 'em, just don't work as well overall as the more up-tempo tracks.

 

As I said, although this band is a long way from typical classic rock, I like the album and would definitely recommend it.  And you can pick up a used copy from Amazon Marketplace for 49 cents plus shipping and handling.  That's not bad at all.  One more thing, the art work is awful, so I included a banner at the top with much better work.

 

Best Song: Your Love/Taking My Chances (Hidden Gem)

 

Most Likely To Skip: Talk To Me

 

        ***click cover to listen***

1. Say It Isn't So

2. Your Love

3. I Don't Need Her

4. Everytime You Cry

5. 61 Seconds

6. Mystery Man

7. All The Love

8. Talk To Me

9. Taking My Chances

10. Nervous Alibi

 

 

[Jon]

I hated this band back then, but will give a listen. Actually saw them open up for Starship. Yes, Starship. I saw Starship.

[Niels (Mod)]

Did you see Starship???

[Jon]

Gave this a listen and still don't like it. I don't know what it is...his voice, the geetar sound or that every songs sounds the same. Sorry, but still not for me.

[RJhog (Admin)]

I do agree with you that the songs sound the same overall, but I still like it.

[Niels (Mod)]

My first thought, was a light-version of the Police or Big Country. The singer want's to be Sting, I think. 

It's an okay easy listening. Nothing special, but I've already forgotten about the album again.

[Scott]

Ah...  The Good ol' Outfield debut!  Your Love still takes on so many meanings, and it seems like everytime it comes on, it fits the situation.  I know Jon doesnt care for this band, but this album, Bangin and Voice of Babylon are real nice releases.  Plus my wife loves them, so no one, and I mean no one, should argue with her on this ...  (until I leave the room anyway)

 

I own this, so I dont need to listen to recommend it, but I woudl say if your into the heavier side of classic rock this will be a major disappointment because it is very poppy, but it is quite unique in the sound and prodcution and style or writing.

 

Nice post RJ - and Im glad to be back!

[RJhog (Admin)]

It's good to have you back.  Be sure and check in on the LAOTW thread and see how MSoTW man is still dominating the scene!!!

[Jon]

Is your wife out of the room? Good.

 

I don't like the Outfield.