Forgotten Songs of the '80s: Icicle Works

Forgotten Songs of the ‘80s: Icicle Works

It’s only just been recently that the Icicle Works have started to get recognition for being so diverse in the face of eighties new wave. The best place to start for anyone who is interested in getting to know the band is “Whisper to A Scream (Birds Fly).”

Kicking off with a memorable guitar riff courtesy of Ian McNabb, the band tread the ground a bit lightly at first before the tight rhythm section of bassist Chris Layhe and drummer Chris Sharrock come in with a bit of African rhythm that sets up the rest of the track. When McNabb’s light and heavy at the same time voice comes in, listeners know that they’re in for a different song than previously used to.

The chorus is absolutely barnstormingly brilliant and remains one of the most recognizable choruses of the eighties. By the time the breakdown comes in utilizing three part harmonies from the trio, one should know that this band is quite different than everything else around them. Just when you think that’s the best part, as the song starts to fade out, McNabb’s vocals plaintively cry out the title in a tone that can only be described as pitch perfect in regards to the song. In the end, Icicle Works made a half dozen records of varying quality but it never got any better than what you’re about to hear.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZIxgHu5U1v4

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