This 12-track remastered release by British pop band 10cc includes the hit "The Things We Do For Love," and three bonus tracks.
When Kevin Godley and Lol Creme left 10cc in 1976 to pursue a solo career, many thought it was the death knell for the group. However, Eric Stewart and Graham Gouldman kept the group alive as a duo (with the assistance of percussionist Paul Burgess) and turned in a surprisingly solid album with 1977's Deceptive Bends. It may lack the devil-may-care wackiness that popped up on previous 10cc albums, but it makes up for it by crafting a series of lush, catchy pop songs that are witty in their own right. Deceptive Bends also produced a pair of notable hits for the group: "Good Morning Judge" told the comical tale of a career criminal over a hook-laden, surprisingly funky pop backing while "The Things We Do for Love" was an irresistible Beatles pastiche that showcased 10cc's mastery of pop vocal harmonies. "People in Love," a surprisingly straightforward ballad built on a gorgeous string arrangement, also became a modest chart success. The remainder of the material doesn't stand out as sharply as these hits, but each of the tracks offers up plenty of naggingly catchy pop hooks, oodles of catchy riffs, and surprising twists in their arrangements. Highlights among the non-hit tracks include "Marriage Bureau Rendezvous," a satire of dating services set to a lilting soft rock melody, and "You've Got a Cold," a portrait of illness-influenced misery set to a percolating pop melody. The only place where Deceptive Bends slips is on "Feel the Benefit," the lengthy medley that closes the album. Its excessive length and hazy lyrics make it less satisfying than the album's shorter tunes, but it is kept afloat by a catchy, mock-Spanish midsection and some lovely string arrangements. All in all, Deceptive Bends is the finest achievement of 10cc's post-Godley and Creme lineup and well worth a spin for anyone who enjoyed Sheet Music or The Original Soundtrack. ~ Donald A. Guarisco
Digitally remastered 1997 reissue of their top 40 1977 albumwith three bonus tracks: 'Hot To Trot', 'Don't Squeeze MeLike Toothpaste' & 'I'm So Laid Back, I'm Laid Out'. 12tracks total, also featuring the top five smash 'The ThingsWe Do For Love', the top 40 hit 'People In Love' and theclassic 'Good Morning Judge'. A Mercury Records release.
Oldie but a Goodie Quite a few hits off this albumn and they obviously had fun with the lyrics. My favourite is "Feel the Benefit" Submitted by fiona (Sydney, NSW, Australia) Was This Review Helpful? YesNo
"Godley"-ess & Less "Creme"-y, perhaps... ...however, 10cc proved they could still put out great albums! Their clever albeit quirky style of songwriting coupled with their superb music making and recording/producing command makes 10cc an absolute must listen! This was the first album I'd ever bought from the supergroup. But it led me to purchase more and more. Eric Stewart and Graham Gouldman had big shoes to fill indeed when half of their already established quartet left them to pursue their own musical ventures. But when this album came out, with their mega-chart-topping hit, "The Things We Do For Love", as well as "People In Love", their critics were silenced. I personally admired the group for some of their more obscure works, like "You've Got A Cold" and "I Bought A Flat Guitar Tutor" (A great song, by the way, to impress your guitar or vocal instructor with!!) But my most favorite song off this set is, "Feel The Benefit (Parts 1,2 and 3)" - a Jeff Lynne-ish sounding tune in places to be sure, but very excellently produced and versatile! Just get this thang! Submitted by berlinjeans (Thompson, IA) Was This Review Helpful? YesNo
Oldie but a Goodie
"Godley"-ess & Less "Creme"-y, perhaps...
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