Dazzle Ships by Orchestral Manoeuvers In The Dark
(re-mastered 2008)
Product Number CDVR2261
Released 4th March 1983
Track Listing
Bonus Tracks
13. Telegraph (The Manor Version 1981)
14. 4-Neu
15. Genetic Engineering (312mm Version)
16. 66 And Fading
17. Telegraph (Extended Version)
18. Swiss Radio International
Although it was always going to be difficult to repeat the success of OMD's previous album 'Architecture and Morality', 'Dazzle Ships' was an album that 'killed [the band] dead', according to Andy McCluskey. Luscious ballads and thoughtful, unique lyrics had been replaced with just under thirty five minutes of odd synthesiser patterns, robotic voices and radio sounds, and as a result, the album was slammed by the majority of critics and fans alike (despite the inclusion of two single-worthy tracks 'Telegraph' and 'Genetic Engineering' on the LP). However, since it's initially poor reception, Dazzle Ships has been cited by many as not only a 'masterpiece', but also a 'buried treasure' (MOJO Magazine)- and rightly so. 'Radio Waves' (an updated version of a song written for OMD's predecessor band The Id) and 'Telegraph' are catchy and strangely uplifting, whilst more contemplative tracks such as 'Of All The Things We've Made' provide a mellow yet unique contrast to the others' pop 'bounciness'. Yes, it might take a few listens to appreciate it properly, but overall 'Dazzle Ships' still represents everything that OMD was - and still is- as a band.
Perhaps it was just a little too 'dazzling' for the listeners of 1983.
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