Sidewalk (1984)
Sidewalk seemingly has become the black sheep of the early Icehouse records and it has controversially divided fans and critics of the band alike. Sidewalk marks a further evolution in Icehouse's sound, with the band exploring a range of musical influences and styles. While some have criticized the album for drawing heavily from the sounds of Brian Ferry, Roxy Music, and David Bowie, I view it as more of a love letter to the band's musical inspirations. I believe it should be viewed as an expression of flattery rather than the band is ripping off these popular music pioneers.
The album opens with the upbeat and catchy Taking the Town, which features an infectious guitar riff, a driving beat, and a chorus hard to not sing along with. The song sets the tone for the first half of the record, which is characterized by upbeat pop-rock tracks that showcase the band's knack for crafting catchy hooks and memorable melodies. Songs like This Time and Someone Like You have these powerful synth hooks that scream the 80s and you’re going to want them IV pumped into your veins.
However, the preprogrammed drum machines can be a drawback for some, as they sound a bit dated and can detract from the overall impact of the songs. Nothing beats a live drum kit and Sidewalk does not benefit from the computerized and uninspired drum programming. Nonetheless, tracks like Don't Believe Anymore and Dusty Pages remain standout tracks that highlight the band's musicianship and pop sensibilities. The former driving it home with one of the most powerful saxophone accompaniments you’ll ever hear in any song, and the latter being a toe tapping, head bopping ear worm that you can’t get out of your head.
The second half of the record is a bit weaker in comparison. The songs on this half are generally slower with more of a focus on atmospheric textures and moody melodies. While there are some standout tracks here, such as On My Mind, the back half lacks the energy and immediacy of the first half. The Mountain and Java being the biggest culprits of this and it pulls the record down in terms of its start to finish playability. Shot Down and Sidewalk also have this David Bowie and Simple Minds-like vocal aggression to them that doesn’t quite work too well for Iva Davies and Icehouse. Again, it doesn’t feel like a copy or a rip off, but more of a tribute to the influential source material.
Musically, Sidewalk draws on a range of influences, from '70s glam rock to '80s synth-pop. The band's use of guitar, synths, and electronic percussion creates a varied sonic palette that is engaging and immersive. However, as noted earlier, the drum machines can be a drawback on this record, but is made better when played live with a full band. While the album may draw heavily from the sounds of the band’s influences, it remains a fairly strong album that showcases Icehouse's musical prowess and eclectic influences.
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Highlight Song:
Don’t Believe Anymore
Someone Like You
Dusty Pages
On My Mind
This Time
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Own it, Stream it, Forget about it?
It is definitely the weakest of the first three Icehouse records, but there is still so much to love here. It is absolutely worth owning and absolutely deserves to be played many many times.
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Overall Rating:
4 Stars
