Arguably the peak of "Brix Smith-era" Fall--rousing, almost commercial, loaded with killer riffs-- Bend Sinister is still one of the band's most rounded and satisfying records. As the group alternate edgy bubblegum pop and crepuscular experimentalism, Mark E Smith flits between playful ("Terry Waite Sez", "Riddler") and disgruntled ("Gross Chapel", "Shoulder Pads" and the fuming hymn of hate to the nanny state that is "US 80s and 90s"). It even boasts one of The Fall's mid-1980s hits and still maybe the group's best-known recording, their evergreen take on The Other Half's 1960s amphetamine anthem "Mr Pharmacist". One of the most advisable points of entry for Fall novices and a favourite of long-time devotees, Bend Sinister is probably the best example of The Fall as a great rock group: rumbling, potent and direct. -- Taylor Parkes
Track Listing
ROD Dr Faustus Shoulder Pads Mr Pharmacist Gross Chapel US 80's 60's Terry Waite Sez Bournemouth Runner Riddler Shoulder Pads 2
