release date: Feb. 23, 1999
format: digital
[album rate: 2,5 / 5] [2,68]
producer: Craig Leon
label: Beyond Records - nationality: USA
Track highlights: 2. "Forgive and Forget" - 3. "Maria" (live)
7th studio album by Blondie released as the band's comeback album 17 years since its so far final album The Hunter (1982). Great expectations were attributed band and album, and a first (and only) fine single, "Maria" (written by Jimmy Destri) helped pave the way for the album, which eventually reached number #3 on the UK album charts list. As with the old classic Blondie hits, they share the signature of Jimmy Destri, and all three singles (tracks #3, #6, and #4) from the album were written or co-written by Destri.
To put it simple: the music here doesn't justify the expectations, and the fine sales around the world are the sheer result of a strong brand. However, with this contribution to the band's legacy it's also hard to release new material and still attract consumers. "Maria" and the second track, "Forgive and Forget" are the only fine songs on a well-produced album, which feature several mediocre and what's worse: several poor compositions almost putting it on level with the 17 year old predecessor The Hunter. This is really nowhere to start a Blondie collection but a must-have for fans - just to complete the collection.
[ allmusic.com, Rolling Stone 2,5 / 5 stars ]
