Hurts - Wonderful Life

  by Anthony Strutt

published: 26 / 3 / 2010

Label: Vier Music
Format: 12"

intro

1980's-influenced electro pop on debut twelve inch vinyl only release from hotly tipped Manchester duo, Hurts

This is the debut release from new hotly tipped Manchester duo, Hurts, who are one of the names currently by being pushed by ‘NME’. It has been issued in Germany only on limited release in a black sleeve on 12 inch only and appears as a picture disc. Most of its 1 000 copies have already sold out. ‘Wonderful Life’ is an 1980’s style pop number that takes its influences from the Pet Shop Boys. A lot of people say that singer. Theo Hutchcraft, sounds like Ian Curtis but I can't hear it at all. Both the tracks that are on it are Arthur Baker remixes of the same song. While not a cover of the song by Black, it does suggest the same sort of mood. Midway through there is a very long instrumental remix break, which was obviously aimed at the club market to get a buzz around the band. The B side is a remix instrumental, which works better for me because I can't say that I like Theo’s voice that much. This version sucks you in more and makes perfect background music. It also adds some superb Cure-style guitar on top as well as some smooth brass. It is is the best side of Spandau Ballet. Their album is now due out on August 16th.

Track Listing:-