what was the post-Knack backlash against Angelino power pop?

I just read Code Blue's entry on this website and the writer says that this was the fate they met. I am curious as to what the "post-Knack backlash against Angelino power pop" was. Especially since I am a big fan of the Knack's first record (not wild about their later stuff). Incidentally, any band that originated with the Motels probably can't be that good.



Post Edited (12-23-04 01:57)

In 1979, the Knack were suddenly everywhere- on TV (even though videos weren't common yet and MTV was still a few years away), in magazines, and seemingly on every radio station. Man, child and dog heard 'My Sharona' a million times that year whether they wanted to or not. It caused a surge in 'skinny tie' bands and a quirky-jerky/los angelino-new-wave signing fest at all labels. Music listeners saw this as an alternative to disco but without the commitment to punk. Of course, the market could not sustain it and there was a backlash caused by the mediocrity and surplus. So, looks like the writer was suggesting Code Blue got lost in the shuffle.



Post Edited (12-24-04 01:33)

Got it, thanks. Indeed, I remember My Sharona being everywhere in 1979 when I was 6 years old.

braggart!!


btw: ironically, that was label's demographic:

6-8 yr old males

The second guitar solo on My Sharona is one of the best of that era (along with Another Girl Another Planet).

Just a follow up on Code Blue's s/t record. I found it in some bargain bin yesterday and it's not bad. Nothing astounding either, but not as dull as I expected given that one of the members used to paly with the Motels.

Tim McGovern--who was also in the Pop and Burning Sensations, two other groups that don't suck total ass--was also a member of the Motels, so I don't think a minor association with the watered-down sound of the Martha Davis-led later-years is a reason to condemn a musician.

P.S. Of course, the Motels did suck.

P.P.S. But weren't they cute on "Bands Reunited" (a show that certainly deserves it own thread, by the way.)