Shake Summation

Rip It Up, Issue 112, 1 November 1986, Page 32

Shake Summation

Wayne Gillespie Losing One/This Place (CBS 7” & 12”) Crafted by a perfectionist, these songs reaffirm Wayne Gillespie’s status as a contender for the big league. ‘Losing One’ has an immediate up feel, driven by a surefooted bassist and fun cooing BVs. Gillespie has a voice with character (a pop Lou Reed croak) and sings effortlessly. Immaculately produced by Trevor Lucas in NSW, this has feel, and it’s not lost in the technology. (Though on the 12” Bside ‘Sweet Angel’ the backing could have a lighter touch.) But if ‘Losing You,’ the first single off New Sensation, unlocks the hit single door for Gillespie, ‘This Place’ will kick it open, with both chorus and verses full of hooks, especially the haunting synth motif. Freeway

rock, perfectly executed. These two songs should be on every commercial radio station in the country. Texas Rangers Texas Rangers Live (Ode 12”) Recorded live at the Gluepot from desk to cassette, and it sounds it too — thick, blurred and distant. ‘Teenage Werewolf’ sets the tone for side one, a hokey piece of ominous horror, complete with wails and heaps of echo. ‘Backwater Billy’ is driven superbly by the drummer, with perfect stylised rockabilly guitar, while Jungle Juice’ has a chorus like a jingle. The B-side is for dancing, with spirited versions of live favourites ‘Johnny Reb,’ ‘Dancen No 9’ and ‘Cut Across Shorty,’ a good, fast R&B shuffle. With both the songs and the musicians being so accomplished, I can’t help thinking this EP is a wasted opportunity; all the elements are here for a great party record, so why throw it all away?

Chris Bourke