GLORYDAZE Music - Articles: Stanley, Michael (Band)

ARTIST: Stanley, Michael (Band)
ALBUM: You Can't Fight Fashion
LABEL: EMI
SERIAL: ST-17100
YEAR: 1983
CD REISSUE: 1992, Razor And Tie, RE-2005

COUNTRY OF ORIGIN:

LINEUP: Michael Stanley - vocals, guitars * Kevin Raleigh - vocals, keyboards * Bob Pelander - keyboards * Danny Powers - guitars * Michael Gismondi - bass * Rick Bell - sax * Tommy Dobeck - drums

TRACK LISTING: 01 Hard Time * 02 Just Give Me Tonight * 03 Someone Like You * 04 Highlife * 05 My Town * 06 The Damage Is Done * 07 Fire In The Hole * 08 How Can You Call This Love * 09 Just How Good (A Bad Woman Feels) * 10 My Town (Live) * 11 Someone Like You (Live)

WEBLINKS: www.michaelstanley.com

Background
This is a case of a band sounding better with each subsequent release, and it seems kinda ironic that their best studio effort meets at the crossroads of that dreaded entity called EMI America. Seems EMI are like a big corporate disease, making their presence felt across the melodic rock landscape. However, MSB step up to the plate and deliver a great set of songs, regardless of the label and circumstances. With 'You Can't Fight Fashion', we see a slick production courtesy of Bob Clearmountain, and the introduction of lead guitarist Danny Powers. Again, the vocals are shared by our Michael, plus the exceptional vocal talent that is Kevin Raleigh. Honestly, this guy is right up there with the best of them. With so many musicians onboard, one would expect a pot pourri of styles, but no, it's straight ahead melodia Cleveland style, though without the Donnie Iris quirks. Lots of keyboards and melodic hooks throughout make it a captivating listen.

The Songs
Mostly, the music is punchy, full, and upbeat. All you need to do is listen to their more popular songs 'Highlife' and the rocked out 'My Town' for a graphic demonstration. But for an even better example try the triumvirate of 'Someone Like You', the fantastic 'How Can You Call This Love' and the album's best moment 'The Damage Is Done', all sung by Kevin Raleigh. Wonderful voice, and a very AORtastic sound a la Preview and Franke And The Knockouts.

In Summary
Most of Stanley's back catalgoue was released on CD by the Razor And Tie label during the early nineties, this one included during 1992. This release includes live versions of 'My Town' and 'Someone Like You'. You will find much of his music very palatable, and most of the EMI America releases are a great addition to your collection.

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