Retro Review: …But Seriously - Phil Collins

Released in 1989, '…But Seriously' is the fourth solo studio album by musician and former Genesis frontman, Phil Collins. And while it may not be as well-known as some of his other works, such as 'No Jacket Required' or 'Face Value', it is undoubtedly one of Collins' finest albums in terms of his songwriting and musicality. 

The album offers a mix of pop, rock, soul, and jazz influences, with Collins using his signature drumming and vocal style to great effect. One of the standout tracks on the album is "Another Day in Paradise", which was released as the lead single and went on to become a massive hit. The song deals with issues of poverty and homelessness and features Collins' heartfelt vocals and emotive lyrics that make it a timeless classic. 

Another standout track from ‘…But Seriously’ is "I Wish It Would Rain Down", which features lead guitar work from Eric Clapton. The song is an emotional ballad about heartbreak and loss, and the combination of Collins' voice and Clapton's guitar playing make for a truly moving experience. 

The album also features collaborations with other notable musicians such as David Crosby, Steve Winwood, and Dominic Miller, all of whom add their own unique touch to the music. 

One of the most impressive aspects of ‘…But Seriously’ is the way that Collins balances his pop sensibilities with more serious subject matter. The album features songs that deal with topics such as political corruption ("That's Just the Way It Is"), the environment ("Colours"), and war ("Do You Remember?"), demonstrating Collins' willingness to tackle tough issues through his music. 

Overall, '…But Seriously' is a fantastic album that showcases Phil Collins' artistry as a musician and songwriter. It is a great example of how pop music can be used to explore deeper themes and make a powerful impact on listeners. If you haven't already, I highly recommend giving this album a listen – you won't be disappointed!

Music on TV: Miami Vice

In the 1980s, no TV show captured the essence of Miami's glamorous and dangerous atmosphere quite like "Miami Vice." The show's signature style was defined by the cars, the suits, and the music. The music featured on "Miami Vice" was an integral part of the show's aesthetic, setting its tone and atmosphere perfectly.

The "Miami Vice" soundtrack was a mix of both popular hits and original compositions, often featuring moody synths and a distinctly '80s new wave sound. Some of the show's most iconic songs were performed by artists like Phil Collins, Jan Hammer, and Glenn Frey, whose "Smuggler's Blues" was even co-written by the show's creator, Anthony Yerkovich.

One of the most enduring musical moments from the show was its opening theme song, composed by Jan Hammer. With its steady electronic beat and catchy melody, the theme song perfectly captured the show's blend of action and drama. The theme song even became a hit in its own right, peaking at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1985.

Another standout track from the show was Phil Collins' "In the Air Tonight," which featured prominently in the pilot episode's infamous car chase scene. The song's haunting drum beat and Collins' powerful vocals made it the perfect accompaniment to the show's thrilling action sequences.

Other memorable tracks from the show include Glenn Frey's "You Belong to the City," which played over the opening credits of season two, and Peter Gabriel's "We Do What We're Told (Milgram's 37)," which was used to great effect in a climactic scene of season three.

The music of "Miami Vice" remains popular to this day, with many fans of the show still regularly listening to the soundtrack. Its blend of '80s new wave, pop, and rock music perfectly captured the show's tone and vibe, and helped to make "Miami Vice" one of the most iconic TV shows of the era.