Sunday, May 6, 2007

Lollipops with Bitter Centers



I am amused at the popular success enjoyed by Howard Jones [top] in the '80s. No one listened to his lyrics beyond the catchy choruses, but his bouncy, infectious synth-pop style often decorated words of pain and failure.

Now I find a parallel in the work of newcomer Mika [bottom]. Critics describe his hit single "Love Today" as "candy-coated pop," and the teeny-boppers lick it up. But a careful look at those lyrics unravels the rather creepy tale of a young girl whose parents would be stunned to learn she's turning tricks. Fooled ya!

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