Reviewed by Jim Coursey
Released: 1981 FX (NY) FX Genre: Hard Rock / Art Rock / New Wave Rating: 3 out of 5 Highlights: Stimulation Fever FX was a New York band that included the rhythm section of Robert Palmer’s touring band. It’s a solidly professional affair, plenty tight and heavy on chops. Sadly it’s not terribly memorable – neither distinctive or hooky enough to catch on. There are two marginal highlights here. Leadoff song “Stimulation” sets the stage, the hard rock guitar licks pushing their sound towards Loverboy or Aldo Nova, the rhythm section towards some sort of Fripp-damaged art rock, and the synths taking it straight into the 80s. Put it all together and it’s something like the Tubes circa the early 80s. “Stimulation” is followed by an intentionally soulless version of Little Willie John’s “Fever,” reminiscent of Devo’s treatment of “Satisfaction” but only half as mechanical. A few more songs here are tempting; “The Same”, “Vertigo”, and “Insomnia” are all built on tight grooves and sonically interesting keyboard textures, but end up verses in search of a good chorus and fail to take off. They are worlds better that the lamentable white boy reggae of “The Observer,” and also a good step better than any of the dregs that close out the second side. Rather than spend the better part of an hour on FX’s lone album, you’d be better served by watching their video for “Stimulation”. [1] It’s kinda cool (and very of its era) but proves that whatever their other shortcomings, the band is probably at least a makeover away from chart success. Set against a bright color bar TV test pattern, the band has a good time with it. Unfortunately, I can’t escape the feeling that the backing band all met while working the floor at a Circuit City. They ooze with “a little bit nerdy, but trying to look slick to move those entertainment centers.” ********** 1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7GguYo-o3ec
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