Here’s a first – a pre-emptive Lost in the ’80s post to make up for a set of reissues that, while nice, will be missing something…
November 15th will see the (nearly) complete re-release of 8 of Eurythmics albums, remastered and chock full of bonus tracks and b-sides, some never before released. Each disc will feature one cover version as a bonus track, which is pretty neat. Here’s the scoop, along with track listings.
NOTE: I’ve just gotten word from Sony/BMG that these WILL be released in the U.S. on the same date, Nov. 15. Good show, Sony!
Now, what’s missing?
This:
After hitting paydirt in America with their 2nd and 3rd LPs (“Sweet Dreams” & “Touch”), Annie & Dave were invited to create the soundtrack for the dark, dreary, depressing film version of George Orwell’s “1984”. While the film was a drag, the songs weren’t – they were darker in tone, but then again, Eurythmics always played with darker elements. The first single, “Sexcrime (1984)” did well overseas, but conservative ears in America weren’t ready for this. Dance clubs (particularly gay ones – shocker) were though, and the track very nearly topped the dance charts.
“Sexcrime’s” follow up, “Julia”, was a complete 180 – a somber, slow ballad, mournful and bitter. While a beautiful song, it wasn’t what the charts were looking for. However, overseas charts went nuts for it.
So, why isn’t the “1984” soundtrack on the slate for reissue? Only the band and their label can say for sure, but I’m guessing it has to do with the vagaries of soundtrack rights – often the movie studio, not the record label, holds the rights to such things. A pity – these two songs alone are reason enough to set the album free.
But hey, that’s why I’m here.
Download “Sexcrime (1984)”.
Download “Sexcrime (1984) [extended version]”.
Download “Julia”.
“Sexcrime (1984)” peaked at #81 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and at #2 on the Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart in 1984.
“Julia” did not chart.
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