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THE REVIEW
In the landscape of "synthetic" bands from the early '80s, the Swiss group Yello stood out for their originality and experimentation compared to the average of their peers. Their way of playing was an intelligent and refined caricature of the fashion of the time, a cultured amusement that gave shape to sparkling and unpredictable miniatures, far from the monotony and pretentious poses that prevailed at the time.
The "mastermind" of the project was Dieter Meier, an artist devoted to multimedia performances (very popular at the time) who decided to unleash his imagination accompanied by Boris Blanck on the synth and Carlos Peron on tapes.
The adventure therefore began with this memorable debut, immediately presenting the first single release: the captivating schizophrenia of "Bimbo". The parodic tone of the operation is noticeable right from the title, a squeeze of electronic gags at a syncopated rhythm creates a devolved and futuristic reggae, a caricature version of Kraftwerk's robotic mechanics.
The hypnosis of the following "Night Flanger" rises on an epic chorus, with sharp guitar notes outlining the entire piece, spicing it with psychedelia. In short, a truly successful hybrid. Their strength was precisely to be found in this medley of styles, blended with extreme elegance.
The drum intro in the manner of a march of the frantic "Bostich" (the second hit of the album) preludes to an industrial-techno rhythm with echoes of house (and we're in the '80s) audible in the samples in the background. A concise track, almost punk in duration (2 minutes).
There's also room for Spanish-flavored suggestions over the electronic backdrop of "Blue Green", as if the Durutti Column met the second Klaus Schulze.
Describing this work as creative and intelligent seems almost obligatory in view of such an interesting ensemble, certainly distinguishable from the duller and more inconsistent commercial panorama. Especially today, 25 years later, it’s easy to discover how it has aged better compared to many of its contemporaries.
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Summary by Bot
Yello's Solid Pleasure debut stood out in the early 80s for its originality and inventive blend of styles. Led by Dieter Meier, the album offers a cultured, playful take on synth music with memorable tracks like 'Bimbo' and 'Bostich.' Its inventive mix of genres and sharp production have aged better than many contemporaries. The album's eclectic and refined sound remains engaging even decades later.Tracklist Lyrics Videos
Yello
Yello are a Swiss electronic music group from Zurich, formed in 1979. Initially a trio with Boris Blank, Dieter Meier and Carlos Perón, they became a duo after Perón’s departure in 1983. They are known for meticulous sampling, witty arrangements and Meier’s deep baritone.04 Reviews
Other reviews
By assurdino
The world is so absurd that it is worth it to be more absurd than it.
Little songs with appropriately (and mirably) titles, like 'Bimbo' or 'Bananas'... delightful useless machines in love with their gears of joyful madness.
