Pulling Rabbits Out Of A Hat

Performer: Sparks
Engineer: Steve Bates
Producer: Ian Little; Ian Little
Distributor: Fontana Distribution

Notes: Sparks: Russell Mael (vocals); Bob Haag (guitar, synthesizer, background vocals); John Thomas (keyboards); Ron Mael (synthesizer); Leslie Bohem (bass, background vocals); David Kendrick (drums). Recorded at Oasis Recording Studios, Los Angeles, California. Personnel: Russell Mael (vocals); Bob Haag (guitar, electric guitar, guitar synthesizer, background vocals); John Thomas, John Thomas II (keyboards); Ron Mael (synthesizer); Leslie Bohem (bass guitar, background vocals); David Kendrick (drums). Audio Mixers: David Bianco; Mick Guzauski; Brian Reeves. Recording information: Oasis Recording Studios, L.A., CA. Illustrator: Stan Watts. Photographer: Jim Shea. Released in 1984 as the follow-up to IN OUTER SPACE, Sparks' biggest-ever commercial stateside success (thanks to "Cool Places," a hit-single collaboration with The Go-Gos' Jane Wiedlen), PULLING RABBITS OUT OF A HIT continues the trends set by the previous few Sparks albums. Bob Haag, Leslie Bohem, and David Kendricks-collectively known as Gleaming Spires-back singer Russell Mael and his keyboard-playing brother Ron. Together they create instantly catchy synth-pop topped by Russell's unique, often falsetto voice and Ron's prolix, deeply odd lyrics. The title track and the frothy, silly single "Pretending To Be Drunk" are the album's highest points, but the biggest surprise is "With All My Might," a sincere and emotional atmospheric ballad that's an unexpected departure for a band so noted for its sarcasm and satire.

From the very beginning Sparks was at odds with the conventional rock & roll archetype. Based around brothers Ron and Russell Mael, the band had an unusual sound and image, with Russell's freakishly high voice and Ron's glam-meets-cabaret keyboards and provocative Hitler moustache. After a few albums of quirky art rock that prefigured New Wave, Sparks hooked up with disco producer Giorgio Moroder in the late '70s for a danceable, synth-driven sound that proved well ahead of its time. Always more popular abroad than at home, the CA-born Maels were destined to remain beloved cult figures in America, but continued recording into the 21st century.

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