The album’s standout tracks include “Edith Piaf (Said It Better Than Me),” “What the Hell Is It This Time?,” and “I Wish You Were Fun.” Each song is distinct and showcases the band’s ability to experiment with different genres.
One of the most remarkable things about Hippopotamus is its production. The album was produced by Franz Ferdinand’s Alex Kapranos, and his influence can be clearly heard throughout the album. The songs are crisp, well-defined, and catchy. The band’s performance is exceptional, with Ron Mael’s keyboard work and Russell Mael’s vocals shining in each track.
The lyrical themes on Hippopotamus are diverse, ranging from politics to love. “What the Hell Is It This Time?” is a commentary on modern politics, while “I Wish You Were Fun” is a plea for a more exciting relationship. The song “Scandinavian Design” features a witty price-of-a-hippopotamus” title=”What is the price of a hippopotamus”>price-of-a-hippopotamus” title=”What is the price of a hippopotamus”>take on consumer culture and the obsession with new products.
Sparks has been active since the early 1970s, and Hippopotamus is a testament to the band’s staying power. Rather than playing it safe and sticking to their tried-and-true sound, the band has continued to evolve and innovate with each album. This willingness to take risks is what makes them stand out from their contemporaries.
Despite being in the music industry for over 40 years, Sparks continues to push boundaries and challenge stereotypes. Hippopotamus is a testament to their creativity and talent, and it’s a must-listen for both longtime fans and newcomers to the band.
The album’s title track, “Hippopotamus,” is a standout moment on the record. The song is a mixture of theatrical pop and glam rock, with a sense of humor that’s distinctly Sparks. The band’s intelligence and wit shine through in the lyrics, with lines like, “I’m a / I can’t wait for next week / Archaeopteryx, your head is next / We’ll get together and we’ll make a trek.”
Overall, Hippopotamus is a strong addition to Sparks’ impressive catalog. It boasts unique production, catchy hooks, and thought-provoking lyrics. It’s a testament to the band’s enduring creativity and willingness to push boundaries. With its genre-blending sounds and clever wordplay, Hippopotamus is a masterpiece of modern rock.