Search - Missing Persons, The Motels :: Back to Back Hits

Tuneful pop that is more than just fluff

Sal Nudo | Champaign, Illinois | 05/17/2002

(4 out of 5 stars)

"The pairing of Missing Persons with The Motels on a greatest hits-type album was an interesting and astute choice. Though the groups have similarities in style and sound, there are also noticeable differences.



Missing Persons' "Destination Unknown" is a classic pop song, and even shines amid all the other hits and great songs on this "Back to Back" compilation. With syrupy vocals, an overtly pop sound and a surprisingly philosophical outlook, the song is a true 1980s gem that still sounds great and relevant. Missing Persons' lyrics are great; tunes like "Walking in L.A.," "Words" and "Windows" cut to the core and leave little room for misinterpretation. "Words" especially carries a lot of weight; it's a space-age sounding song with a theme of total isolation and being ignored in the great big wide world -- and in one's own relationship with someone else. The Missing Persons boast an otherwordly look and sound, and this song truly captures that essence -- new age and punk all at once. They're a tight band that practically bleed a 1980s aura, but you can't deny the fact that they write good songs. MPs' lead singer seems world-weary and street smart, while her message in "Give" is as generous and non self-involved as rock stars get.



The Motels have a slightly different focus. A little less sexy and more organic than Missing Persons, The Motels are nonetheless sonically playful at times, with lyrics that can be just as forlorn as what Missing Persons write. "Only the Lonely" and "Suddenly Last Summer" -- the band's two biggest hits -- could strike a nerve with anybody; they truly sound lonely. The Motels lead singer probably has a better, more natural voice than the woman in Missing Persons, and she brings a bit more soul to the table. Interestingly, her themes of isolation in a cruel world don't stray far from The Missing Persons' mantra. Though the last two Motels songs on this album are not well known, they are nonetheless great.



It's hard to pick who's better between the two bands; maybe there is no better. I prefer Missing Persons just slightly, but overall these are two classic groups from the '80s that beat out a majority of today's lesser pop bands."

Good block of 80's tunes

Sal Nudo | 03/21/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I initially bought this CD just for The Motels' "Only the Lonely", but the entire album soon grew on me being on inveterate fan of 80's music. For the low price of this double hits album, you really can't go wrong for you buck!"