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Duran Duran
"Rio"
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1982
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Rio
My Own Way
Lonely in Your Nightmare
Hungry Like the Wolf
Hold Back the Rain
New Religion
Last Chance on the Stairway
Save a Prayer
Chauffeur
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From its Nagel cover to the haircuts and overall
design - and first and foremost the music -Rio is as
representative of the eighties as it gets, at its
best.
The original Duran Duran's high point, and just as
likely the band's as a whole, its fusion of style
and substance ensures that even two decades after
its release it remains as listenable and danceable
as ever.
The quintet integrates its sound near-perfectly
throughout, the John and Roger Taylor rhythm section
providing both driving propulsion and subtle pacing.
For the latter, consider the lush semi-tropical sway
of "Save a Prayer" or the closing paranoid creep of
"The Chauffeur," a descendant of Roxy Music's
equally affecting dark groover "The Bogus Man." Andy
Taylor's muscular riffs provide fine rock crunch
throughout, Rhodes' synth wash adds perfect sheen,
and Le Bon tops it off with sometimes overly cryptic
lyrics that still always sound just fine in context
courtesy of his strong delivery.
Rio's two biggest smashes burst open the door in
America for the New Romantic/synth rock crossover.
"Hungry Like the Wolf" blended a tight, guitar-heavy
groove with electronic production and a series of
instant hooks, while the title track was even more
anthemic, with a great sax break from guest Andy
Hamilton adding to the soaring atmosphere.
Lesser known cuts like "Lonely In Your Nightmare"
and "Last Chance on the Stairway" still have pop
thrills a-plenty, while "Hold Back the Rain" is the
sleeper hit on Rio, an invigorating blast of
feedback, keyboards and beat that doesn't let up.
From start to finish, a great album that has
outlasted its era. |
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