Name: Sparks
Brand: Sparks

Bonus disc

Bonus disc: No

Catalogue number

FRM00204

Colour

Orange

Colour details

Discogs ID

Format multiplier

Download code

Download code: No

Rough Trade Exclusive

Rough Trade Exclusive: No

Extended format

Extended format: Yes

Format detail

Gatefold, Limited Edition

Format Music US

Limited edition

Release date

2024-05-10

Signed copies

Signed copies: No

Supplier US

Orchard

Tax rate US

Sales:8.875

UPC / Barcode

829421002048

Total Cap

Orange LP

FRM95204

Turquoise

Aqua

2024-03-22

829421952046

Turquoise LP

Artist

Sparks

Genre US

60s & 70s

Label US

Friday Music Two

Brothers Ron and Russell Mael from Los Angeles, USA have been making diverse music since 1969 under various incarnations of Sparks. In 1979 they ditched the guitars and keyboards of glam geek rock and started working with Italian producer Giorgio Moroder, beginning a love affair with electronic music.
Since then they have collaborated with a variety of artists including Finitribe, Les Rita Mitsouko, Erasure, Faith No More and Franz Ferdinand. Their innovative approach to music has earned them a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim throughout their career.
With their unique blend of genres and unmistakable style, Sparks continue to push boundaries in the world of music. Whether it's through their captivating live performances or their thought-provoking lyrics, this iconic duo remains an influential force in the industry.

Restored classics, rare finds, and sought-after releases. Whether you're a vinyl enthusiast or a tape collector, we have something for everyone.

Reissues

Newest Listed Items

Sparks' eponymous 1971 debut presents the singular compositional, lyrical and singing voices of Ron and Russell Mael fully formed. Originally released under the moniker Halfnelson, Sparks' prescient debut prefigures Queen, power pop, and especially Southern California's late '70s skinny-tie explosion. It's a landmark of Todd Rungren's early production career, and clearly the backing band of brothers Earle and Jim Mankey brought Sparks' pop idiosyncrasies to their later work with The Dickies, The Quick and 20 / 20. Infectious, daring, and delightfully flaunting camp theatricality throughout, Sparks is the first installment in an unparalleled series of some of the decade's most classic albums. Careening melodies soar through space-detritus electronics on the strikingly original "Roger," which evokes the early solo work of Brian Eno, but the deranged art-rock closing track "(No More) Mr. Nice Guys" is the unequivocal classic of Sparks' early career and a staple of the band's live set ever since. Rundgren's restrained production wisely sets the Mael brothers at the fore of Sparks. With just subtly treated cymbal flourishes keeping the pace, album opener "Wonder Girl" is pared down and mixed to showcase two things: Ron's twinkling piano trill and Russell's fluttering high-register. As Rundgren perceived, and a multi-decade career confirms since, their fraternal chemistry is a consummate force.

Music US

Discover Sparks by Sparks. The eponymous debut album from 1971, featuring infectious melodies and camp theatricality. Available in LP format from Friday Music Two.