Artist: 10CC Album: How Dare You!

Year: 1976
Duration: 21:33

Why 10CC's How Dare You! is a Classic Album Worth Revisiting

As somebody who's recently started collecting vinyl records, I've been diving headfirst into some classic albums from various eras and genres. One album that particularly caught my attention was 10CC's fourth studio album, How Dare You!. At the time of its release, the album received critical acclaim and was a commercial success. But how does it hold up today? In this post, I'll be reviewing How Dare You!, providing a brief history of the band, discussing the music genre of the album, highlighting some of the best tracks, and critiquing the album as a whole.
First, let's start with some background information on 10CC. This band formed in 1972 in Manchester, UK, and consisted of four members: Lol Creme, Kevin Godley, Eric Stewart, and Graham Gouldman. They were known for their innovative and often experimental approach to songwriting and their wide range of musical influences. How Dare You! was released in 1976 and was the band's last album with the original lineup.
The music genre of How Dare You! is difficult to classify. It features elements of rock, pop, funk, and even classical music. The album's production is often described as lush and intricate, with layers of instrumentation and harmonies. The use of synthesizers and other electronic instruments was also ahead of its time. 10CC really pushed the boundaries of what was possible in the studio with this album.
Now, let's talk about some of the best tracks on How Dare You!. The album opens with How Dare You, a satirical song about a lover's quarrel that escalates into a court case. It's a catchy tune with a memorable chorus. Art For Art's Sake is another standout track, featuring a funky bassline and witty lyrics about the music industry. I Wanna Rule The World is a bombastic anthem with a choir backing up the band. And let's not forget Don't Hang Up, a hilarious phone conversation between a man and a woman that's been set to music.
One of the most innovative parts of How Dare You! is the use of sound effects and spoken word samples throughout the album. For example, The Second Sitting For The Last Supper features a snippet of a man talking about being struck by lightning. These little touches add to the overall atmosphere of the album and make it feel like a fully realized piece of art.
But no album is perfect, and How Dare You! is no exception. Some critics have noted that the album can feel a bit disjointed at times, with the different musical styles and themes not always seamlessly blending together. Additionally, some listeners may find the band's sarcastic lyrics and irreverent humor to be a bit off-putting.
Overall, I think How Dare You! is a classic album that's well worth revisiting. It's a shining example of what can happen when a group of talented musicians aren't afraid to experiment and push boundaries. The album's mix of genres and use of electronic instruments was ahead of its time and still sounds fresh today. While it may not be everyone's cup of tea, I highly recommend giving How Dare You! a listen. Who knows, it might just become your new favorite album.
Overall, I think How Dare You! is a classic album that's well worth revisiting. It's a shining example of what can happen when a group of talented musicians aren't afraid to experiment and push boundaries. The album's mix of genres and use of electronic instruments was ahead of its time and still sounds fresh today. While it may not be everyone's cup of tea, I highly recommend giving How Dare You! a listen. Who knows, it might just become your new favorite album.