Eyes Lips Eyes Cut an Instant Classic

Eyes Lips Eyes
Blue Red
2011

Presently this full length release, “Blue Red” from Eyes Lips Eyes is only available on vinyl and digital download. The band does something which is rarely achieved; they capture the energy of their live show in a recording. It’s near impossible to sit still while listening to ELE.
“Pretty” is the opening track on which singer Tony Hello muses on the nightlife of the beautiful people out and about in the city of Angels. Thoughts of mortality are as shallow as the city is sprawling and ultimately of no concern when he sings “Pretty enough to never say Good-bye/Pretty enough to die.” Is this the wry observation of an outsider or a moment of self awareness?
“Tickle” starts with one of the most memorable and playful guitar riffs ever recorded. Incessant, upbeat and sunny, “Tickle” is alight with movement. There’s no sense in attempting to resist. There’s disco and funk running throughout the song. In a just world this track would be a perfect piece of summertime pop; always on the radio.
“Bear Trap” is a subtle, slow burn of a song reminiscent of some of INXS’s quieter moments. With glistening guitar work and tension filled pacing, the song flutters lightly. Hello’s vocals are laconic and beautifully understated. But it’s the rhythm section who owns this song, making it a standout track. When it finally opens up, it’s like watching a dam burst.
A digital download of the release comes with a purchase of the vinyl LP, plus four bonus tracks, “Elect,” “Good Swimmer,” “False Prophet,” and the band’s outstanding cover of the Talking Heads, “Psycho Killer.” Their rendition is true to form and as energized as any of TH’s full band performances on “Stop Making Sense.”
Eyes Lips Eyes are a formidable band, and one whose career bears watching. This is a horse worth betting on.