It’s interesting to contrast the two versions of Cars, the 2001 take being almost baroque in its rendition. Metal is also particularly kick-ass. (Can you call Numan kick-ass?)
It’s interesting to contrast the two versions of Cars, the 2001 take being almost baroque in its rendition. Metal is also particularly kick-ass. (Can you call Numan kick-ass?)
Gary Numan – The Complete John Peel Sessions
http://www.bertus.com/ http://www.cookingvinyl.com/ (under license from BBC music)
Okay Numanoids, I am sure you are aware you get three sessions here, one amounting to a mini gig in the studio, replete with whoops and hollers from the crowd… Whatever next?
The two sessions from 1979 introduced (and indeed showed off) the classic glacial, alienated and awkward Numan image. The first is the better of the two; (with Me, I Disconnect from You the superb Down in the Park and the symphonic I Nearly Married a Human), a brilliantly evocative set that captures all you really need to know about this man’s early work. The second is more hesitant (maybe it’s the change from a three piece to a five piece band) and exploratory; the rendition of Cars feels like a demo but the set ends with a great take on Conversation.
Last up is the 2001 gig, promoting the Pure LP. This is a thumping set, awash with guitars and snarling very intense vocals. It’s interesting to contrast the two versions of Cars, the 2001 take being almost baroque in its rendition. Metal is also particularly kick-ass. (I wonder though… can you call Numan kick-ass?)
A good investment if you’re a fan I’d say.
Words: Richard Foster