The Fixx — 鈥楤eautiful Friction鈥�
It’s been recently pointed out that I’ve been stuck in the ’80s after I reviewed new albums by Soul Asylum, Asia, Joe Walsh, Joey Ramone and Blues Traveler.
The Fixx’s latest release continues my magical musical flashback as “Beautiful Friction” harkens back to the British band’s heyday after they emerged from London in 1979.
The Fixx debuted in 1982 with “Shuttered Room,” sparked by the singles “Stand or Fall” and “Red Skies.” I became a fan with the band’s second release, “Reach the Beach,” which reached number eight on the American Album chart fueled by “One Thing Leads to Another,” “Saved by Zero” and “The Sign of Fire.”
“Beautiful Friction” is the group’s 10th studio release and first since 2003’s softer edged “Want That Life.” Lead singer Cy Curnin is in fine voice as his mysteriously polished and sophisticated vocals sound passionately refreshed and energized on the 11 new arrangements. Album opener “Anyone Else,” an infectious song about self-reliance, is an instant classic as the band displays no signs of age or rust after 33 years together. The title track is soulful and carefully crafted as Curnin’s falsetto is pure stylish heaven. “Girl With No Ceiling” is a melodious standout track that contains voguish traces of Duran Duran.
Moving from the traditional synth-pop sound, the band delivers a guitar-driven rocker with “Take a Risk” by displaying a touch of punk rock vigor and attitude. Sounding popularly retro while remaining modishly modern, “Beautiful Friction” is brimming with tiny pleasures and surprises that only go to show that you really can’t get enough of a good thing.