Islington Tribune - by CHARLOTTE CHAMBERS Published: 2 May 2008
Sparks set for gigs marathon
AMERICAN glam-rockers Sparks are set to play a 21-day run at an Angel music venue to celebrate their 21-album career. The Californian brothers, Ron and Russell Mael (pictured), became a pop sensation in England in the 1970s before later finding fame in the US in the 1980s. Although their career has spanned five decades – they started out in the 1960s alongside the Doors and the Beach Boys in Los Angeles – it has enjoyed a revival in recent years following the release of their 20th album Lil’ Beethoven in 2002.
The remarkable Islington Academy shows, entitled Sparks – 21 Albums – 21 Shows, is thought to be the first time a band has performed each of their albums in a run of consecutive nights.
Among the albums the duo will be staging will be their breakthrough Kimono My House, as well as the more comically named Whomp That Sucker and Angst In My Pants.
The shows will run from May 16 to June 11. Their sold-out final date will see them perform their most recent album, 2006’s Hello Young Lovers.
Die-hard fans wishing to see all 21 nights can purchase “Gold Tickets” for £350, while one evening is £20.
They are expected to release their next record, Exotic Creatures of the Deep, later this year.