What the Hell Is It This Time? Sparks: Live in London

Sparks' "What the Hell Is It This Time? Sparks: Live in London" is a testament to the unyielding creativity and infectious energy of the iconic brotherly duo, Ron and Russell Mael. Filmed in 2018, this exhilarating performance is a visual representation of their remarkable five-decade-long journey as musical visionaries. The concert, featuring 22 tracks, takes the audience on a captivating journey through the band's extensive discography, showcasing their unique blend of wit, intelligence, and musical dexterity. The concert begins with a series of standout tracks from Sparks' early work, including 'This Town Ain't Big Enough for Both of Us' and 'The Number One Song in Heaven.' These songs, taken from their 1974 release 'Kimono My House,' still radiate the same sense of quirky charm and playfulness that has endeared them to fans worldwide. The performance is marked by the distinctive, androgynous harmonies of Ron and Russell, which have become a hallmark of their distinctive sound. As the concert progresses, the band navigates their extensive discography, seamlessly transitioning from the glam rock of 1970s-era Sparks to the experimental pop of their 1990s work. Tracks like 'Cool Places' (co-written with Jane Wiedlin of The Go-Go's) and 'When Do I Get to Sing 'My Way'' showcase the duo's ability to craft hook-laden melodies that transcend generational boundaries. The live performance is elevated by the band's energetic stage presence, which has always been a key component of their showmanship. Ron and Russell exude a sense of joy and playfulness, interacting with each other and the audience in a way that is both charming and authentic. This camaraderie is infectious, drawing the crowd into the performance and creating a sense of communal celebration. One of the standout aspects of Sparks' live show is their ability to reinvent and reinterpret their classic songs in new and innovative ways. Tracks like 'I Can Tell the Fate of Man' and 'Tryouts for the Human Psyche' are given fresh arrangements, featuring intricate instrumental interplay and innovative production techniques. These reworked versions breathe new life into the original songs, demonstrating the Mael brothers' commitment to creative evolution and expansion. The concert also features a series of recent tracks, including 'Harmless Dream' and 'Dark Side of My Life.' These songs, taken from their 2017 release 'Hippopotamus,' showcase the band's continued relevance and innovation. The performances of these songs are marked by their characteristic blend of wit, intelligence, and musical sophistication, demonstrating why Sparks continue to be a major force in contemporary popular music. Throughout the concert, the Mael brothers are supported by a skilled and energetic band, featuring longtime collaborators like Todd Rundgren and Giacomo Mazzoli. This collective talent brings the music to life, injecting the performance with a sense of spontaneity and creativity that is characteristic of Sparks' live shows. As the concert reaches its close, the band takes the audience on a celebratory journey through their extensive discography, featuring a series of fan favorites and lesser-known tracks. The performance is marked by a sense of catharsis and release, as Ron and Russell share a sense of gratitude and appreciation with the audience for their enduring support. Ultimately, "What the Hell Is It This Time? Sparks: Live in London" is a testament to the timeless appeal and creative genius of Sparks. The concert is a vibrant and engaging visual representation of the band's enduring musical legacy, featuring 22 tracks that showcase their unique blend of wit, intelligence, and musical dexterity. This performance is a must-see for fans of Sparks and new listeners alike, offering a captivating glimpse into the band's remarkable journey and their continued relevance in contemporary popular music.