SUR LA MER

The Moody Blues: Justin Haywood (vocals, guitar, keyboards, programming); John Lodge (vocals, keyboards, bass, programming); Patrick Moraz (keyboards); Graeme Edge (drums). Additional personnel: Tony Visconti (programming). Recorded at Good Earth Studios, Soho, London, England. Personnel: Justin Hayward (vocals, guitar, keyboards); John Lodge (vocals, keyboards); Patrick Moraz (keyboards); Graeme Edge (drums); Tony Visconti (programming). Audio Mixer: Tony Visconti. Recording information: Good Earth, Soho, London, England. Unknown Contributor Role: Graeme Edge. The Moodies' last album of the '80s is very much of its time--its layered synths and drum programming are at times oppressive--but there's more than enough of the band's trademark lush romantic melodicism to compensate. The big hit here is the opening "I Know You're Out There Somewhere," one of singer/guitarist Justin Hayward's best wistful romantic plaints. Other highlights include "Vintage Wine," a catchy bit of '60s nostalgia with a singalong chorus; "Miracle," in which the band attempts to get funky ala Phil Collins; and "Here Comes the Weekend," which has a sound reminiscent of early '70s glam rock and represents the closest the Moodies have ever gotten to an all-out party anthem.

• Genre: Pop
• Format: CD
• Released: 10/25/1990