Cockney Rebel, Harley - Human Menagerie

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Music reviews of Human Menagerie

Music Review: When artsy was "in" and "glam" was a good thing
Rating: 4 Stars

Singer Steve Harley wrote artsy, fey lyrics that worked well with the unconventional instrumentation of the early Cockney Rebel recordings. "Hideaway" kicks off the CD with a bang. The formula of drums, bass, acoustic guitar, keyboards, and violin is introduced in a tight, driving song that Harley punctuates with campy phrasing and clever lyrics. Let's just state right up front that Harley's voice was limited, but he was very good at phrasing and could deliver some memorable moments. "What Ruthy Said" and "Loretta's Tale" are the perfect follow up songs - catchy, dramatic, and original. These two songs also introduced Harley's lyrical technique of storytelling using names like Ruthy, Sebastian, Mona, and Loretta that he continued using for many years.

"Crazy Raver" is a completely over the top, well, rave if you must. It is one of the weaker songs on the CD, but not a complete loss. "Sebastian", the notorious hit single, is Harley at the height of his drama queen stance, complete with full orchestra and choir. Listening to it then and now, I could never believe it was ever played on the radio in Europe or anywhere else much less America. It is slow, long, and unconventional. It was the signature song of their concerts for many years.

"Mirror Freak", one of the best songs on this CD, was the real hook. It worked its way into my brain and I would find myself mentally replaying it or remember snippets of the lyrics for years and years. "My Only Vice" and "Muriel the Actor" are standouts as well with their vaguely Gypsy-esque, outdoor carnival style using violins and marimbas. "Chameleon" and "Death Trip" closed the original album with a dark, dramatic ending. The remastered CD includes the modest hit "Judy Teen" and "Rock and Roll Parade".

While "The Human Menagerie" was an impressive, original debut, the follow up work, "Psychomodo" solidified Harley and company's reputation as a major act. Harley's influences were many, including David Bowie, Nico, and Lou Reed, but his willingness to try unconventional, offbeat instrumentation and lyrics set Cockney Rebel apart from so many other arty bands in the early and mid-70s. For those wanting to explore the music of the early 70s, "The Human Menagerie" is a less explored path that deserves to be followed.

Description of Human Menagerie

Classic Rock CDs

• Music > Styles
• Pop
• Rock