Sunday, September 28, 2025

China Crisis - Black Man Ray (Virgin)


I quite like this one. It's got a nice little melody to it. However, I don't like their image, which is as dismal as Julian Lennon. And unfortunately, it seems to rub off on their otherwise very pretty songs. (Marshall O'Leary, Smash Hits, March 14, 1985)

China Crisis are one of those semi-famous groups whose faces and songs you vaguely recognise but can never totally identify. The anonymity they unwillingly court is a drag, especially if their records aren't immediately catchy. However, 'Black Man Ray' produced by noted American musician Walter Becker, might help matters. It's sad, wistful air will appeal to audiences across the board, and China Crisis will remain in the shadows no longer. (Adrian Jones, No1, March 9, 1985)

Donald Fagen's old Steely Dan partner, Walter Becker, produces this soft rock effort - and it shows. Those soft harmonies and instrumental motifs show strong Steely Dan influences. Fortunately, like all Dan material, this easy-going opus grows with every play. (Mike Gardner, Record Mirror, March 9, 1985)

No comments:

Post a Comment

Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...