Monday, February 23, 2009

MusicBox 02.23.09

On this date, way back in 1983, Men at Work won the Grammy for Best New Artist. The band beat Asia, Jennifer Holliday, Human League and Stray Cats. (Yes, Asia was up for Best New Artist, even though most of the band were, like, 40 when they formed.) Other bands debuting in the magical year of '83 include; Duran Duran, Soul Asylum, Jesus and Mary Chain and Bon Jovi, none of whom were nominated for a freaking thing. But we are here to celebrate, not hate. Today, it's all about the Men from the Land Down Under. Beyond all the 80's affectation and Beatle-esque video antics, Men at Work were solid musicians playing well-crafted pop songs.


This is "It's a Mistake," off their second album, Cargo.



Check out this B-side, "Helpless Automaton," performed live at the peak of the band's popularity. You don't have to get though the whole tune, but listen enough to get a feel for it. This, kids, is what the 80's sounded like.


Finally, this is Colin's Hay's lovely, haunting version of "Overkill" performed for an episode of "Scrubs." Before you ask, we have no clue why the song is set to clips from "A Beautiful Mind."