UK Singles Chart 26th August 1972
Alice Cooper holds off the challenge of Rod Stewart, and stays at number 1 for another week, Rod's "You Wear It Well" is at number 2 this week.
Mott The Hoople climb 7 places to number 4, with ELO and Derek & The Domino's also continuing to rise in the chart.
3 artists enter the top 20 this week, Blackfoot Sue at number 14, Jackie Wilson at number 17, and Lyndsey De Paul at number 20, The New Seekers re-enter the top 20 at number 19.
UK Singles Chart 19th August 1972
The top 2 remain the same for a second week, which means another week at number 1 for Alice Cooper, whilst at number 2 we have Terry Dactyl & The Dinosaurs, with "Seaside Shuffle". Hawkwing make the top 3, climbing from number 7.
5 records enter the top 20 this week, including tracks by Rod Stewart, "You Wear It Well" and Mott The Hoople, "All The Young Dudes", a track written by David Bowie. The Bee Gees climb 10 places to number 9 with "Run To Me".
UK Singles Chart 12th August 1972
Donny Osmond had finally given up its stranglehold on the top of the UK charts, yielding to something altogether different in the form of Alice Cooper. The controversial rocker climbes to Number 1 with his first major international hit, "School's Out".
In addition to that track, just six other records were climbing within the Top 20 - the biggest leap coming from Hot Butter with their electronic instrumental "Popcorn", rising five places to Number 6. 2 records enter the top 20, The Bee Gees with, "Run To Me" and Faron Young with, "It's Four In The Morning", another track I have no recollection of!
UK Singles Chart 5th August 1972
Donny Osmond is still at number 1 and so far has held off the competition, to register a 5th week at the top of the charts, that said, Alice Cooper is a real threat moving up from number 6 to number 2, with "Schools Out".
Just one new entry into the top 20 this week and that is The Electric Light Orchestra with "10538 Overture", Hawkwind's "Silver Machine" rises 5 places to number 7 and Hot Butter's "Popcorn" moves up 8 places to number 9.
UK Singles Chart 29th July 1972
Donny Osmond is number 1 for a 4th week in a row, holding off Dr Hook & The Medicine Show, who climb to number 2 with "Sylvia's Mother". I really liked the Hawkwind track "Silver Machine" and that climbs from number 20 to number 12. Alice Cooper leaps from number 17 to number 6, with "School's Out. A great week for Bowie to, re climbs from number 18 to number 10.
The instrumental "Popcorn" by Hot Butter enters the top 20 at number 19, a very infectious track. It is also a good week for Terry Dactyl & The Dinosaurs, who climb from number 12 to number 5 and The Partridge family, who move into the top 5 at number 4.
UK Singles Chart 22nd July 1972
Donny Osmond manages to hold on to the number 1 slot for another week, despite both Gary Glitter and Dr Hook & The Medicine Show pushing hard to claim the top spot. The New Seekers and Johnny Nash continue moving up the chart.
This week Alice Cooper jumps into the top 20, at number 17 with the anthemic "Schools Out", oh I did like this record back then, his most recognizable and most successful track he recorded. Terry Dactly & The Dinosaurs also enter the top 20 at number 12 with "Seasise Shuffle", a track I am not familiar with.
One of my favourite Bowie tracks, "Starman", enters at number 20 and also hitting the top 20 this week are The Partridge Family, with, "Breaking Up Is Hard To Do".
UK Singles Chart 15th July 1972
No change in the top 3 this week, however, Dr Hook & The Medicine Show rises from number 13 to number 4, with "Sylvia's Mother" and pose a serious threat to the top 3. The New Seekers also move into the top 5 with "Circles".
One of my favourite Bowie tracks, "Starman", enters at number 20 and also hitting the top 20 this week are The Partridge Family, with, "Breaking Up Is Hard To Do".
UK Singles Chart 8th July 1972
No surprise Donny Osmond made number 1, a very popular track when it was first released, Gary Glitter is pushing Osmond hard with "Rock And Roll (Parts 1 And 2)", which climbs from number 5 to number 2. Another good track in this week's chart is "Sylvia's Mother" by Dr Hook & The Medicine Show, the same can be said of Johnny Nash, who enters the top 20 at number 12, with "I Can See Clearly Now", another song from the 70s I really liked.
UK Singles Chart 1st July 1972
Slade take over the number 1 position in this weeks chart, with Glam Rock tracks occupying 3 places in the Top 5, Slade, The Sweet and Gary Glittter. Elvis Presley fly's into the Top 20 at number 8 with "An American Trilogy". The New Seekers enjoy another hit with "Circles" (a track I don't remember at all), which is at number 11. Donny Osmond is a big mover on this week's chart with "Puppy Love", up from number 13 to number 3.
Gilbert O'Sullivan certainly had quite a few hits in the early 1970s, which I actuallyliked at the time!
Welcome to edition 146 of Maximum 80s here on White Lion Radio, a show that celebrates the 1980s 12 Inch Single!
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Playlist
Soft Cell - Bedsitter (12 Inch Version)UK Singles Chart 24th June 1972
Don McLean remains at number 1 but Slade and Michael Jackson are pushing hard to take the number 1 position, as is Gary Glitter, with his first big hit "Rock And Roll (Parts 1 & 2)", as it enters the Top 20 at number 6. The Sweet also enter the Top 20 at number 8 with "Little Willy". A track I really liked back in 1972 was "Puppy Love" by Donny Osmond and that enters the top 20 with a bullet, at number 13.
UK Singles Chart 17th June 1972
After just missing out on the number 1 spot with his previous single "American Pie", Don McLean reaches the top of the charts with "Vincent", Slade make another big move from number 14 to number 3, a potential number 1, maybe?
"Song Sung Blue" by Neil Diamond enters the top 20 and a track I enjoyed hearing in 1972, a classic tune, as Michael Jackson continues to rise with his single "Rockin' Robin".
UK Singles Chart 10th June 1972
T-Rex still hold top spot, as Elton John's challenge to top the charts appears to have come to an end as "Rocket Man" drops to number 5, Don McLean's "Vincent" is a serious contender to take over the number 1 position rising from 5 to number 2. Michael Jackson and Slade enter the top 20. I have never heard that Diana Ross track, what a hidious title!
UK Singles Chart 3rd June 1972
T-Rex remain at number 1, but Elton John is pushing to take top spot, moving up to number 2, Don McLean is a big mover on this weeks chart, with "Vincent", as are The Drifters, who move into the top 3 and The Move rise 9 places to number 11.
UK Singles Chart 27th May 1972
T-Rex enjoy another week at number 1 with "metal Guru", David Cassidy continues to rise in the charts, now at number 2. Don McLean follows up his hit "American Pie" with "Vincent" and enters the top 20 at number11. Procol Harum enter the top 20 with the classic "A Whiter Shade Of Light", later covered by Annie Lennox of the Eurythmics.
A couple of tracks in this weeks chart, that i also enjoyed hearing were, Paul Simon with "Me And Julio Down By The Schoolyard" and The Tempations track "Take A Look Around"
UK Singles Chart 20th May 1972
The Royal Scots Dragoon Guard's reign at number one is over, replaced by T-Rex with "metal Guru", which jumps from number 9 to number 1, one of my favourite tracks from 1972. Vicky Leaondros' challenge for the top spot seems over, dropping to number 4 with "Come What May".
Elton John moves into the top 5 with "Rocket Man", whilst Judy Collins re-enters the top 20 with her rendition of "Amazing Grace", surely, it must the first time that the same song recorded by different artists feature in the top 20 at the same time?
UK Singles Chart 13th May 1972
There is no shifting The Royal Scots Dragoon Guard from number 1, however, Vicky Leandros is closing in on top spot. My favoutite T-Rex track "Metal Guru" enters the UK chart at number 9, really liked it when I heard it back then. Another track I really enjoyed back then, was the Hurricane Smith track "Oh Babe, What Would You Say".
Another football song, this time by the Leeds United team, is at number 20, Leeds were a very successful team in the 70s.
UK Singles Chart 6th May 1972
The Royal Scots Dragoon Guard enoy their 4th week at number 1, Ringo Starr also keeps hold of the number 2 position. Elton John powers into the top 20 at number 12 with "Rocket Man", probably the first Elton John record I remember hearing. I loved the Drifters track "Saturday Night At The Movies", a couple in there I have no recollection of whatsoever, Jo Jo Gunne with "Run Run Run" and the Sly & The Family Stone track "Runnin' Away".
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
