Metamatic/Ultravox

[steve]

I offen wonder what Metamatic might have sounded like if it have been done by Ultravox...heres a live track from the album before the split Hes a Liquid

I think it would have been better and Shaun knows why

[Dubsounds]

I know why you think its would be better but the jury is still out on this one mate.

I understand this recording is particularly rough as it's a VERY early version before the band split (sounds like half the band haven't rehearsed it at all) but I don't think you're gonna convert me from sublime minimalism to this very easily mate.

Superb idea for discussion none-the-less ;D

[spoonz]

Are we talking the Billy factor Steve.
That viola is sweet.

Better as Ultravox - I don't think so.
It's a different mood with Ultravox performing it as apposed to John on his own.

The Metamatic version suits the album with it's cold stark theme whereas ultravox were more Anthemic and became more so as time went on.

Not better just different.

[lemonkid1]

Great that Steve, very different indeed isnt it! Foxxy on top form and I loved Billys Viola solo (sort of Mr X, ish) top drumming as usual from Warren, but the guitar parts sounded awful imo.

[steve]

Try this one and I'll explain why I think it could have been a better album later


Touch and Go

[Dubsounds]

lemonkid1 said:

...but the guitar parts sounded awful imo.

#funny# Might have been better had the guitar actually been in tune #bigdube#

[spoonz]

I think guitar had always been an issue in Ultravox pre Midge from what i've read.

Not sure that song changes much for me except the Dynamic of a band playing their own instruments as opposed to a solo artist adds some dimension to the song.

Bit like some of Gary Numans stuff had a new dimension when someone like Denis Haines came in with a more classical slant and added something for me.

In my mind Billy Currie was the Denis Haines for Ultravox. He added something that only he could do. Nobody else before or since plays like Billy does. On stage he looks like he needs the toilet urgently but boy can he play.

Louis Gordon seems to have filled that role for John now. John is still minimalist but Louis is the excitable extravagent one.

I've probably completely missed your point but I think your saying the band maketh the performance.

[labouch]

Those are great clips - never heard them before. The good old Elka 610 sounds great.