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Released 1983

Like their Athens, Georgia counterparts the B-52's, this unusual band used dance beat music as the platform for its intriguingly eccentric style -- but while the former group gleefully exploited the kitschy aspects of this aesthetic, Pylon explored the spare, arty, new wave side of the genre. All the songs on this album are composed of short, static, obsessively repeated riffs propelled by dance mix drums, over which vocalist Vanessa Briscoe chant-sings surrealist lyrics. Within this seemingly narrow ambit, however, the group manages to find a fair bit of variety. "Italian Movie Theme" is an instrumental number featuring surf-derived guitar playing. "Gyrate" has a heavier, thumping, rock-oriented beat and a modest funk-derived feel. "Yo-Yo" exhibits a Devo-like mechanical quality, while "K" shows the gloomy influence of Joy Division or early Siouxie and the Banshees. Hints of Go-Go's girl group touches are audible on "Crazy." The odd aural idea of R.E.M. as a dance mix group is suggested on one of the album's best tracks, "No Clocks." The group went on a lengthy hiatus after this platter and would not release another album for seven years. This odd record may take a few listens to reveal its merits, but it's worth the effort. ~ David Cleary, All Music Guide

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