FUNDAMENTAL
The Pet Shop Boys album "Fundamental", their ninth studio album, was released on May 22, 2006, in the UK and various other countries, with a later release in the US on June 27, 2006. The album marked a significant collaboration with renowned producer Trevor Horn, known for his work with Frankie Goes to Hollywood and ABC, bringing a grand, orchestral, and richly textured approach to the duo's synth-pop foundation. Recording took place primarily at Sarm West Studios in London during spring, summer, and early autumn of 2005.
"Fundamental" was conceived with a thematic manifesto focused on contemporary issues of authoritarianism and fundamentalism, reflecting in the lyrics and mood throughout the album. Although initially intended to be a minimal electro dance record, the project evolved into a collection of epic songs with expansive arrangements, orchestrations, and a sonic depth reminiscent of the Pet Shop Boys' earlier acclaimed works like "Actually," "Behaviour," and "Very." The album balances political and social commentary with the duo's trademark witty, sophisticated lyricism.
The track list comprises eleven new compositions by Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe, along with one song, "Numb," written by Diane Warren, originally planned for an earlier greatest hits release. The album bears a dedication to two Iranian teenagers executed for homosexual behavior, reflecting its engagement with themes of intolerance and human rights.
Interesting elements of the album include its artwork inspired by Dan Flavin's fluorescent tube art, representing a minimalist yet striking visual identity. A limited-edition double CD version, "Fundamentalism," features remixes and additional tracks, including a new version of "In Private," a duet between Neil Tennant and Elton John.
Critically, "Fundamental" was well received for recapturing the grandeur and creativity of the duo’s peak years, earning two Grammy nominations in 2007 for Best Electronic/Dance Album and Best Dance Recording ("I'm with Stupid"). Despite modest commercial sales compared to earlier albums, it established "Fundamental" as an artistically ambitious album that reaffirmed the Pet Shop Boys' continued relevance and craft in 21st-century pop music.
Overall, "Fundamental" stands out as a powerful synthesis of classic Pet Shop Boys synth-pop with modern production polish, thoughtful socio-political themes, and Trevor Horn's signature lush, layered sound, making it a pivotal release in their extensive discography.
Psychological
Opens with a moody, suspenseful feel, reminiscent of a psychological thriller, with minimal synth layers and sound effects that evoke tension and mystery. Its thematic focus hints at fear, paranoia, and mental unrest.
The Sodom And Gomorrah Show
Features a circus-like, theatrical production with electric guitars, disco strings, and a lively rhythm. Lyrically, it satirizes sensationalism and moral panic, with a sharp critique of contemporary culture.
I Made My Excuses And Left
A slow, melancholic ballad built around dramatic synths and introspective lyrics about evasion, regret, and emotional withdrawal.
Minimal
An energetic, danceable track with a driving beat, minimalistic synth textures, and lyrics exploring themes of subtlety, control, and societal manipulation.
Numb
A powerful, emotionally raw ballad that delves into themes of disconnect and emotional numbness, with lush orchestration and tender vocals.
God Willing
An atmospheric, haunting instrumental that offers a moment of reflection, heavily influenced by orchestral and ambient sounds.
Luna Park
A slower, contemplative track evoking nostalgia, with lyrical themes of escapism and the fleeting nature of happiness, enhanced by the song's lush arrangement.
I'm With Stupid
A catchy, upbeat critique of political and social stupidity, incorporating dance beats, with ironic lyrics about authority figures and conformity.
Casanova in Hell
Darkly comic, it humorously discusses aging and sexual decline, with a theatrical production style.
Twentieth Century
An energetic, synth-driven anthem about modernity and societal change, with a playful yet critical tone.
Indefinite Leave To Remain
A reflection on immigration and identity, with lyrics emphasizing belonging and acceptance, set against a backdrop of subtle electronic textures.
Integral
The track criticizes the Identity Cards Act 2006. A statement from the band cited the issue as the reason that Neil Tennant ceased his well-publicized support of Tony Blair’s Labour Party.
Interesting facts: The album's cover art features stark, minimalist imagery, reflecting the serious themes contained within, and "Fundamental" was considered one of the duo's most political albums, addressing issues like terrorism, morality, and authoritarianism. It received positive reviews for its ambition and depth, though some critics felt the weight of its political commentary made it less accessible than their earlier, more playful work.
Overall, "Fundamental" combines sharp social critique with lush, cinematic production, showcasing the Pet Shop Boys’ ability to blend political insight with high-quality pop music.
Final thoughts….
A very good move to have Trevor Horn produce this album, his production style certainly suited the songs the duo wrote for this album and I felt they needed something special after a disappointing run of album releases and they have delivered with this album, although not on totally top form. “The Sodom And Gomorrah Show” should definitely have been a single.
TRACK RATINGS
Each track on the album is scored on the following basis, an excellent tracks scores 3 points, a good track scores 2 points, an ok track scores 1 point and an awful track, scores no points, the total is added up and divided by the maximum number of points that would be available and then times that by 100 to get your overall score. For example if an album scores 20 points and there are 10 tracks on the album, that means it can achieve a maximum score of 30, so divide 20 by 30 and times it by 100, it gives you a figure of 66.66, which is the final score rating for the album, in this case you would round it up to 67, if it was 66.33, you would round it down to 66. In the event there is a tie, the album with the most tracks rated at 3 ranks as higher.
Psychological 1
The Sodom And Gomorrah Show 3
I Made My Excuses And Left 2
Minimal 2
Numb 2
God Willing 1
Luna Park 2
I’m With Stupid 2
Casanova In Hell 2
Twentieth Century 1
Indefinite Leave To Remain 2
Integral 3
Score 23
FINAL ALBUM RATING 77
Current Album Chart
1. Actually - 80 (6 Tracks Rated As 3)
2. Please - 80 (5 Tracks Rated As 3)
3. Introspective - 78
4. Fundamental - 77
5. Behaviour - 73
6. Very - 69
7. Release - 57
8. Bilingual - 47
9. Nightlife - 42
