Emotional Rescue レコード& CD

Review: Emotional Rescue is delighted to present the first of two EPs from British '80s band Furniture, starting with their much sought-after, six-song "mini-album" - as they were known then - which has recently been rediscovered by a new generation of DJs and collectors.

"Transatlantic Cable" compares the cliches of a certain type of American romance - Bogart, Sinatra, Dean - to the reality of life in West London. "They're On Me" is probably one of very few pop songs to feature double bass and the word "newsagent", while "Robert Nightman's Story" is powered by a riff on marimba and abrasive rhythm guitar.

"I Miss You", a torch song so good you'd think Julie London might have cut it. A highlight for many is "Why Are We In Love". This track is a key reason for the revival of interest in the band, with pattering rhythm part and the sweet clarinet melody, creating an atmosphere that has attracted a following among discerning DJs. "A Letter To Myself" introduced the band's new, expanded line-up adding Sally Still (bass, vocals) and Maya Gilder (keyboards), which would endure until the band stopped in 1990.

Review: Emotional Rescue return to the music of cult British group Furniture, shining a light on this unique band's extended 12" mixes and alternate takes. In the 80s tradition, these versions shrug off commercial concerns for something more exciting - long run times and space to tease FX and processes that a radio-friendly single wouldn't allow. "I Can't Crack (Broken Mix)" is an epic crescendo, while the instrumental mix of "Throw Away The Script" locks into a scratchy percussive workout anchored by a moody bassline. The sprightly piano lines and cascading sax on "Dancing The Hard Bargain" are a delight to lose yourself in, while "Bullet" strikes a somber but stirring tone to close the EP out.