Whipping Boy
Submarine

Today it's trendy to talk about new wave, shoegaze, and indie rock. Even MTV, more in this decade than in the grunge and techno '90s, seems to have carefully covered these not exactly "overground" phenomena. Shoegaze, however, was strong even in the last decade... it just didn't draw an endless amount of attention.

But let's get to the point: today all the kids, those who were waiting for the "next big thing," have started wearing schoolboy shirts, All Stars, Greg-style glasses (I mean the comedian who acts with Lillo), and tight jeans. They started, musically, with the reappraisal of what until yesterday they barely knew and perhaps snubbed: the '80s and what derives from it (I mean also productions after that decade but inspired by it).

So predictable and boring! Especially for those who, years ago, saw the discs of the Jesus & Mary Chain, rather than those of the Smiths and Joy Division, being cheerfully ignored. Giorgio Gaber, unfortunately, was right! When it's fashion, it's fashion!

It's a pity, however, that fashion and revival have not done justice to hundreds of '80s and '90s bands. Bands well known to certain star system foxes, but entirely unknown to the general public.

Let's talk about the Irish Whipping Boy: two great albums and a flop!

Okay, we may not be in the presence of hotties like Damon Albarn (who often makes my arms drop along with other parts), but neither are we in the presence of an anonymous and idea-less group.

Divine fortune decreed that a holy man, on these pages, reviewed their critical "Heartworm." A second album, rather easy listening and close to the catchiness of certain Brit pop. A well-built album full of sincere emotions. An album, and I'll stop with the romanticisms right away, preferably enjoyable in the company of your significant other.

Even more beautiful, in my opinion, is the debut titled "Submarine." A platter released in 1992 for the indie label Liquid Records and practically unattainable on the market.

Dark, cold, melancholy and feelings from the depths of the heart. This emotional kaleidoscope accompanies us in a long tunnel made of feedback, piercing riffs, and fascinating Anglo-Irish pop melancholy.

Take the often-mentioned Jesus & Mary Chain, the equally cited The Cure, the less known Chameleons, and two or three ideas borrowed from Ian Brown.

One could go on for hours with comparisons! But the Whipping were still the Whipping!

Well: a 43-minute journey into a decidedly rarefied and decadent dimension. No gothicism or industrial delirium! For heaven's sake! This was, and remains, gentle pop music, pop music seasoned with spleen and golden distortions.

Proof of what's been written is provided by tracks like "Beatle", "Favourite Sister", "Astronaut Blues", and the six minutes of the title track.

"Heartwork" will be released in the distant 1996 (which will grant a glimmer of fame to the group) and finally a last album released in 2000. And then? Nothing!

It makes you quite angry to see many talents having to "close up shop" because they came out in the open at the wrong time. However, it's nice to notice the distance of these guys from the possibility of gaining attention and recognition in a period, like the current one, where the wind is blowing in their favor.

Let's give the Irish a chance! Let's give "Submarine" a good listen and get "Heartworm." Ours, rest assured, will not be building pools or villas with our money and attention.