Best of Oingo Boingo: Skeletons in the Closet

Performer: Oingo Boingo
Distributor: Universal Distribution

Notes: The first of several Oingo Boingo compilations--this one released to capitalize on leader Danny Elfman's early success as a film composer--1989's SKELETONS IN THE CLOSET is a handy precis of Oingo Boingo's several albums, all of which are uneven to varying degrees. This 12-song compilation focuses on their earlier, better releases, with quirky, horn-powered new wave gems like "Little Girls," the semi-hit "Private Life," "Only a Lad" and the career-defining "Nothing to Fear (But Fear Itself)" particular highlights. John Hughes fans will be disappointed to learn that their film theme "Weird Science" is not to be found here, however. The two-disc ANTHOLOGY is more inclusive, but for casual fans, this may be all the Oingo Boingo you'll need.

Oingo Boingo began in 1972 as the Mystic Knights of Oingo Boingo, a cabaret-influenced musical theater troupe. In 1980 they pared down to an octet and changed their sound to reflect new wave, ska, post-punk, and world music elements. Their eponymous EP spawned the hit single "Only a Lad," and a full-length by that name appeared in 1981. The hit "Nothing Bad Ever Happens to Me," from 1983's GOOD FOR YOUR SOUL, continued the band's winning streak, as did 1985's DEAD MAN'S PARTY. Songs from the album appeared in several films, including WEIRD SCIENCE and BACK TO SCHOOL. Four less successful album followed, including BOINGO, which featured a more guitar-driven sound. Around this time, original member Danny Elfman left to pursue a successful career in film composing. Oingo Boingo disbanded in 1996.

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