Originally released in 1975, Futurama was English rock band Be-Bop Deluxe's sophomore effort, following up the fine Axe Victim debut from a year prior. For the album, leader Bill Nelson (guitar, vocals, keyboards) changed the line-up, which now included bassist Charlie Tumahai and drummer Simon Fox. The sound however retained the bands blend of artful progressive rock, glam, and pop, with nine new songs that stand the test of time as some of the bands best. Esoteric Records' new remaster sounds great, and they have also included a bonus disc with a new stereo mix of the album as well as some previously unreleased material.
With a new rhythm section and Nelson free to let fly his guitar prowess, much of Futurama contains a wealth of six-string explorations, such as the killer "Sound Track" or the heavy, Jimi Hendrix inspired "Sister Seagull". The band's penchant for pop hooks backed up with prog-rock musical elements are in full force on "Stage Whispers" as well as the catchy "Maid in Heaven", while the charming "Music in Dreamland" is a must hear for any Queen or 10cc fan with its multi-layered vocal approach, quirky arrangements and orchestrations. "Between the Worlds" blazes from start to finish, a feisty prog number complete with stellar guitar & keyboard passages courtesy of Nelson and intricate drum fills from Fox, and closer "Swan Song" is another majestic rocker that will again appeal to any Queen fan with a wealth of hook laden vocal harmonies and layers of piano and guitars. Nelson's guitar solos on this cut are just a joy to behold...this guy was a bona fide guitar hero who never got the recognition he deserved.
Both the original stereo mix and the new one sound fantastic, with crisp, clear remastered sound that allows all the instruments to speak to the listener, and the vocals are presented in spectacular fashion. Esoteric have included a cool booklet packed with an essay from Nelson, one from Mark Powell, as well as plenty of photos and info on the album, plus a folk out poster of the album. Whether you are experiencing Futurama for the first time or considering upgrading your old CD copy, this will be a mandatory purchase for you.
Track Listing
DISC ONE: CD
FUTURAMA
THE ORIGINAL ALBUM REMASTERED:
1. STAGE WHISPERS
2. LOVE WITH THE MADMAN
3. MAID IN HEAVEN
4. SISTER SEAGULL
5. SOUND TRACK
6. MUSIC IN DREAMLAND
7. JEAN COCTEAU
8. BETWEEN THE WORLDS
9. SWAN SONG
BONUS TRACKS
10. BETWEEN THE WORLDS (SINGLE VERSION)
11. LIGHTS
DISC TWO: CD
FUTURAMA
THE NEW STEREO MIX:
1. STAGE WHISPERS (NEW STEREO MIX)
2. LOVE WITH THE MADMAN (NEW STEREO MIX)
3. MAID IN HEAVEN (NEW STEREO MIX)
4. SISTER SEAGULL (NEW STEREO MIX)
5. SOUND TRACK (NEW STEREO MIX)
6. MUSIC IN DREAMLAND (NEW STEREO MIX)
7. JEAN COCTEAU (NEW STEREO MIX)
8. BETWEEN THE WORLDS (NEW STEREO MIX)
9. SWAN SONG (NEW STEREO MIX)
BONUS TRACKS
10. BETWEEN THE WORLDS (SINGLE VERSION) (NEW STEREO MIX)
11. LIGHTS (NEW STEREO MIX)
12. MUSIC IN DREAMLAND (PHONOGRAM STUDIOS VERSION) (PREVIOUSLY UNRELEASED)
13. BETWEEN THE WORLDS (ALTERNATE SINGLE VERSION) (PREVIOUSLY UNRELEASED)
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