Customer Reviews

Kid Creole Redux

5 star:		(13)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Way back in the mid-80s, I saw Kid Creole's Endicott video. I initially liked it because it was funny, but gradually its unusual style and sound convinced me to buy a Kid Creole and the Coconuts album. Thus began a quest that would last several years. Since Kid Creole is, as far as I can tell, essentially unknown here in North Carolina, I all but gave up hope of ever finding this album. I must say it was well worth the wait. There is not a bad song to be found here. Even Kid Creole's cover of "If You Wanna Be Happy" is refreshingly good. I can't really describe this music because it is so different from anything else I have heard--it always gives me the distinct feeling of sitting on some Caribbean beach with my eyes closed, sipping a fruity drink, listening to the waves come in. It's fun and sure to make you feel good.

It really is difficult to understand why music this unique and enjoyable is not wildly popular--blame the radio stations who won't play it because Kid Creole delivers an incredible musical experience. I hope you will follow my lead and purchase this album despite any doubts associated with never hearing any or all of it; some of the best tapes and CDs I have are recordings I took a chance on, and this one is at the top of that list. Share it with your friends or simply enjoy it yourself while you feel sorry for all of the people who have been denied a chance to experience Kid Creole and the Coconuts.

The sound of Kid Creole & The Coconuts is typified by 2 things - fun Carribean music with lots of beat and funky horns that will throw you back to the last laid back holiday you took, and humorous lyrics that are bound to make you giggle when the words of the songs suddenly strike you. Here's a little sample for those who've not heard Kid Creole's music - "Oh Annie, I'm not your Daddy; if I was in your blood, then you wouldn't be so ugly!"

Eat your heart out, Michael! (reference to Billie Jean, of course).

For those who are into rap, Kid Creole does that too! Check out Stool Pigeon for some mean rap! Stool Pigeon was voted one of the best single of the year 1982 by New Musical Express.

Chart-wise, Kid Creole only managed 3 successful singles in the UK in 1982, namely "I'm A Wonderful Thing (Baby)", "Annie, I'm Not Your Daddy" and "Stool Pigeon". That was Kid Creole at its peak. Thankfully, all of them could be found on this CD.

Kid Creole and the Coconuts have spent years creating some of the most infectious music anywhere! A dazzling mix of R & B, salsa, big band jazz, and rock 'n' roll, with a stage show that is second to none (and used in major motion pictures). They fit into none of the commonly used categories of music. It seems they have not been properly promoted. As a result, they have been largely overlooked. A terrible shame. But don't take it from me - listen to the music. Hear for yourself! This CD has some of his (August Darnell's-he's the Kid) best music, although it would be great if they'd issue "In Praise of Older Women", and all their old albums, on CD. We can only wait and hope.

Why is Kid Creole not HUGE? I have NO IDEA! Let's examine the facts, shall we? He was sportin' his zoot suit when the CP Daddies were in underoos! He was throwin down' Anglo-Salsa before Ricky Martin was eating solid food! This cd is exhibit A. This collection clearly shows his genius. Every song is a gem that shows how mind-numbingly far ahead of their time Kid Creole and the Coconuts were. "Lifeboat Party" is a fiesta of neo-swing mayhem. "There's Something Wrong in Paradise" shows social awareness is undeniably tied to gettin' your groove on. I could go on, each song is wonderful. I, for one, am ready for the box set from the Sire years. Ska, Salsa, Swing, Mambo and Samba are all blended with more than a couple dashes of New York Attitude. Words do not due this cd justice. These songs are overlooked classics. Nothing less. Lets hope someone out there gets a clue bien vite and releases the Kid's Sire Catalog in its entirety (because my cassettes are dying). Buy this cd and join the Lifeboat Party, child!!!

He, not Bruce, not Michael, not Prince, was the best thing the 80's had to offer. I was hooked after hearing Endicott in late 84 on L.A.'s Kroq. His albums in the 80's just don't have fillers. I mean, my fav track from him is this unknown nothing from a tertiary project whaich says a lot about his standards and consistancy. I took a couple of avid concert goers who've seen everything, and they walked away speechless. His wordplay and ability to jump styles in the coolest way is unmatched. There will never be another like the Kid.

I agree with everything everybody else has written. Let me add that my major influences have been hard (Led Zep) and progressive (Yes) rock. I can't stand dance music. This music is nothing like those genres, but at the same time can't be categorized. It is the most hip, funky, bopping music you'll ever hear. I was given some tickets to go see Kid about 15 years ago and saw him in Detroit - of every concert I've been to - from The Ink Spots to Eric Clapton - the Kid puts on the best show I've ever ever seen - if you get the chance, see him live!

I never understood why Kid Creole never became a superstar. This collection shows off the group's stuff really well. It's a shame that Doppleganger isn't available on CD as it is probably his best. I often put this CD on at our parties and people always ask "who is that guy?" Buy it, play it, enjoy it!

This is the music you may have heard, but didn't know who wrote. These catchy island music/pop music hybrids are wonderfully crafted and hilariously irreverent. I cannot recommend this album enough. Just buy it. I have yet to meet someone who isn't charmed by these lost '80s pop gems.

I only wish more of Kid Creole an the Coconutz albums were available on CD.

Kid Creole & The Coconuts have a devoted cult following. That group of people do not need this compilation.

This record is perfect for those of us who want a little Kid Creole / August Darnell in our CD collections. This is great summer music: fun, light and bouncy. Tropical sounds and rhythms, with a light R & B touch, powered by clever songwriting/story-telling. "I'm a Wonderful Thing" should've been a mega-hit. "Annie I'm Not Your Daddy" and "Endicott" are pure fun. "Lifeboat Party" is one of the finest examples of nouveau lounge jazz out there.

I'm knocking off a star based on the failure to include the great ode to ED (as they call it in the commercials) ... "Mr. Softee." What, you thought that one was about ice cream?

Don't get me wrong, I'm a HUGE Kid follower from 1981. I'm not giving 5 stars based solely on the choice of pieces on this compilation. His albums were very story driven, as if he were writing musicals. Taken out of context, most of these songs hold well. I wish the songs were placed in chronological order. Like I said, Kid Creole's albums were stories and the stories were linked like a grand epic that involved paternity issues, gigaloism, cannibalism, corrupt law enforcement! I think it woulda painted a better picture if told in order. If you can find the original albums, grab 'em. This greatest hits will suffice until T.P.T.B. make a boxed set! P.S.: where the Hell is "My Male Curiosity" from the movie, "Against All Odds"????