Sparks, the iconic duo consisting of Ron and Russell Mael, will release their 26th album on May 26th, The Girl Is Crying In Her Latte. This release marks a return to their roots with Island Records, the label that helped break their seminal record, Kimono My House, in 1974. While most musicians at this stage of their career would be resting on their laurels, Sparks continue to push boundaries with their music.
Ron and Russell Mael stated, “We’re happy that after so much time, we’ve reconnected with Island, sharing the same spirit of adventure that we all had way back when, but with our new album, The Girl Is Crying In Her Latte.” The album is a bold and genre-defying work that showcases the band’s unique style.
Louis Bloom, Island Records President, expressed his excitement for the release, stating, “Sparks have always been one of the most original, ground-breaking, and creative groups in pop, and their longevity is partly down to their ability to constantly reinvent themselves.” The label is honored to have Sparks back and looks forward to celebrating 50 years since the release of Kimono My House next year.
To coincide with the album’s release, Sparks will embark on a world tour as well as a U.S. tour which includes a headline show at the Hollywood Bowl on July 16th, which is expected to be the band’s largest to date. Unfortunately, their tour does not include a Seattle area date at this time.
Sparks’ career has spanned more than 50 years, with their music evolving through various genres, from art rock and glam to new wave and synth-pop. Their influence on the music industry cannot be overstated, with artists such as Joy Division, Depeche Mode, and Bjork citing them as a significant inspiration.
Sparks’ renewed popularity in recent years can be attributed in part to the release of the Edgar Wright-directed documentary, The Sparks Brothers. The film delves into the band’s extensive history, exploring their creative process and their influence on music. It has introduced Sparks to a new generation of fans and helped to solidify their status as a cult band.
As they continue to push boundaries with their music, Sparks remains a unique and innovative duo that refuses to rest on their laurels. The Girl Is Crying In Her Latte is a testament to their unwavering commitment to their art, and a nod to their past as they return to their roots with Island Records.
If you aren’t as familiar with Sparks as you would like to be, here are a few of their definitive works:
“This Town Ain’t Big Enough For Both Of Us” (from the 1974 album Kimono My House)
Sparks’ hit song “This Town Ain’t Big Enough for the Both of Us” was released in 1974 as part of their album “Kimono My House”. The song, which is known for its powerful synth and vocal arrangements, reached the top 20 in both the UK and the US charts. The lyrics of the song explore themes of power dynamics and competition in a small town, where two people are vying for control. The track has since become a cult classic and is often cited as an influential piece of music in the art rock and new wave genres.
“The Number One Song in Heaven” (from the 1979 album No. 1 In Heaven)
Sparks released “The Number One Song in Heaven” in 1979, marking a shift in their music style towards electronic disco. The song was produced by Italian disco icon Giorgio Moroder, who also co-wrote the track with Sparks’ members Ron and Russell Mael. “The Number One Song in Heaven” features a pulsating beat, catchy hooks, and a futuristic sound that was ahead of its time. It received positive reviews from critics and became a hit in the UK, reaching #14 on the charts. The song’s success helped establish Sparks as pioneers in the electronic dance music genre.
“Angst In My Pants” (from the 1982 album Angst In My Pants)
This track was included on the album of the same name and features a driving rock beat and catchy synth hooks. The lyrics touch on themes of romantic frustration and sexual tension, with lead vocalist Russell Mael singing in a dramatic, theatrical style. The song received some commercial success, peaking at number 12 on the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart. “Angst In My Pants” has since become a fan favorite and a staple of Sparks’ live performances.
“Cool Places” (from the 1983 album In Outer Space)
“Cool Places” featured lead vocals from Jane Wiedlin of The Go-Go’s. The track was released as a single in 1983 and later appeared on the band’s album “In Outer Space.” The upbeat synth-pop track was produced by Giorgio Moroder and peaked at number 49 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. The lyrics describe the excitement of exploring new and exciting places with a lover, highlighting the desire for adventure and spontaneity in relationships. The song’s catchy melody and playful lyrics have made it a popular choice for inclusion in various films, TV shows, and commercials over the years.
“When Do I Get to Sing ‘My Way‘” (from the 1994 album Gratuitous Sax & Senseless Violins)
“When Do I Get to Sing ‘My Way‘”, released in 1994, is known for its catchy synth-pop melody and introspective lyrics, exploring themes of loneliness and self-identity. It was included on the band’s album Gratuitous Sax & Senseless Violins and became a moderate hit in Europe. The song received critical acclaim for its innovative sound and poignant lyrics, cementing Sparks’ reputation as pioneers in the art-pop genre.
“Lighten Up, Morrissey” (from the 2008 album Exotic Creatures of the Deep)
“Lighten Up, Morrissey” was released in 2008 and appears on the album Exotic Creatures of the Deep. The song features a mix of electronic and rock music, with a catchy chorus and playful lyrics that gently poke fun at the British musician Morrissey. The track was well-received by critics and has become a fan favorite. Overall, “Lighten Up, Morrissey” is a fun and upbeat song that showcases Sparks’ unique sound and sense of humor.”
“Edith Piaf (Said It Better Than Me)” (from the 2017 album Hippopotamus)
The song is a tribute to the French singer Edith Piaf, and her ability to convey strong emotions through her music. The track features a mix of electronic and orchestral elements, and is known for its catchy chorus and lively energy. It has received positive reviews from music critics, who have praised the song’s upbeat tempo and clever lyrics.
