Mar 04 2024 43 mins 5
Did MTV make Duran Duran, or did Duran Duran make MTV? Perhaps a little of both. What is beyond doubt is that Rio, the band's second studio album, would propel Duran Duran into a worldwide new wave and dance phenomenon, and would be a major offensive of the Second British Invasion in the United States.
Duran Duran had found success in the UK with their self-titled debut album in 1981, and expectations were high for the group. Rio would find the band leaning heavily on upbeat tracks, a couple of synth-heavy ballads, and more experimentation with musical sounds and instruments than their first album. Many tracks also had accompanying videos, leaning into the MTV market. The photogenic appeal of the band also bolstered the popularity of their videos.
Critics were neutral to negative on the album when released, but the commercial appeal was stunning. Duran Duran would dominate American charts from the back half of 1982 throughout 1983, and the band would become an icon of 1980's music.
The album was released in May of 1982, but was recorded in January through March of 1982, resulting in our placement of the album in this month.
Brian joins us in Wayne's absence, while Rob brings us this iconic New Wave album for today's podcast
Rio
The title track was the third single released from the album. Bassist John Taylor came up with the title, reflecting optimism and an exotic feel for the album. Sounds at the start of the song were created by throwing small metal rods onto the strings of a grand piano. Andy Hamilton is the saxophone soloist on this track.
New Religion
This deeper cut leads off side two of the album, and is a dialogue between the ego and the alter-ego, featuring conflicting voices in the chorus. The song is a bit darker than others on the album. "I'm talking for free, I can't stop myself - It's a new religion. I've something to see, I can't help myself - It's a new religion."
Last Chance on the Stairway
Another deeper cut, the lyrics to this song talk about taking chances and testing limits. "And please don't say leave till later, I've had my last chance on the stairway."
Save a Prayer
This ballad was Duran Duran's biggest hit in the UK at the time, though not originally released as a single in the US. The lyrics depict two strangers falling into a one-night stand, living in the moment and letting the consequences wait for a later time. The synthesizers create a beautiful but haunting sonic landscape.
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Main Theme from the motion picture “The Thing”
Not to be confused with the Fantastic Four character, this John Carpenter film depicts a research team in Antarctica encountering a hostile extraterrestrial who can assimilate then imitate humans.
STAFF PICKS:
Leather and Lace by Don Henley and Stevie Nicks
Brian brings us a duet from alumni of the Eagles and Fleetwood Mac. Stevie Nicks wrote this song about a relationship between two very different individuals, based on her own experiences in relationships with both Don Henley and fellow Fleetwood Mac member Lindsey Buckingham.
Love is Like a Rock by Donnie Iris
Bruce features the second single from Iris's second album, "King Cool." It has an infectious riff. It went to number 37 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song originated as an instrumental jam, with lyrics added afterwards.
Physical by Olivia Newton-John
While Lynch takes some grief for bringing such a pop song into this rock broadcast, the single was a monster hit in the 80's. While the video would portray scenes of exercise in the gym, the lyrics were considered much more sexual and controversial at the time.
Addicted by Le Roux
Rob closes out the staff picks with a rocking hit lost in time. Le Roux is a band from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Roux is a cajun thickening base for gumbo.
INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
I Advance Masked by Andy Summers & Robert Fripp
Police guitarist Andy Summers and long time King Crimson guitarist Robert Fripp had this instrumental rock track out on which we end the podcast.
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