Ron Mael
Sparks
Formed in L.A in 1970 by eccentric brothers, Ron and Russell Mael, Sparks have coloured the music scene with an array of different directons as well as their distinctive personalities. With Ron (keyboards), appearing on stage looking sober and stern, crossed with Russell (vocals)'s exuberant, outgoing performances, the band made their mark with breakthrough album, ''Kimono My House'' in 1974.
This album spawned the single: ''This Town Ain't Big Enough For The Both Of Us'' which reached No.2 in the UK.
Sparks relocated to England in 1973, releasing well-received albums: ''Propaganda'' and ''Indiscreet'', before returning to the States 3 years later to release ''Big Beat'' and ''Introducing Sparks'' for a more 'American' sound.
By 1979, the band had changed musical tack again, hooking up with producer, Giorgio Moroder, for the hit album: ''No.1 in Heaven'' which took in a more electronic sound.
In 1994, the pair had returned to music with the album: ''Gratitous Sax and Senseless Violons'', however the revival album, released in 2002, ''Lil' Beethoven'' with its classical sound was the one that really renewed interest in the band.
In 2008 Sparks played a 21 night residency in London, entitled: ''Sparks Spectacular'' where each of their albums were played live in chronological order.
With over 20 albums to boot, 40 years in the industry, taking in the musical forms of glam rock, ''West Coast'' sound and electronica and incisive lyrics Sparks are a band never to be forgotten.
Wendy Gabriel
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