Date: Fri, 29 Sep 2000 13:31:36 +0100 From: Gordon Bathgate To: kps Subject: The Spiv's Hello Everyone A few weeks back I reviewed the Great Lost KPS album and gave it a glowing report. At the time I didn't want to outstay my welcome and said I'd review the Spivs bonus CD later. I am a man of my word so here is my opinion - BRILLIANT! I'll share my thoughts on my favourite tracks. The Spivs start proceedings with a bang with their superlative version of 'See my friends'. They've taken the eastern mysticism feel of the original and expanded it tenfold. The arrangement reminds me of Monsoon's Indipop 1981 hit 'Ever so lonely'. I've played this one a couple of times on my radio show. Another one that's had an outing on radio is Olga's version of 'This strange effect'. I wasn't too familiar with this song but now it's fast becoming one of my favourites. I'm impressed by the sheer variety of styles and production on the CD. >From the Eurodisco styled 'Superman' to the sheer exuberance of 'Skin and bone'. Olga and the two Geoff's are no stoney-faced muso's though. One listen to their hilarious version of 'Alcohol' will confirm this. However, for me the biggest coup of the CD has to be the reappearance of the legendary French chanteuse Genevieve Fouqinelle. I don't how the band managed to persuade the renowned Diva to emerge from a lengthy retirement to sing 'Barque les Muses' but it was well worth it. I only hope Ms. Fouqinelle can be convinced to sing more songs from the Kinks canon, Any ideas or suggestions? The Great lost KPSA album is well worth the money on it's own but with the Spivs CD thrown in as a bonus how can you resist? Buy it now. Regards Gordon