Lene Lovich • Stateless
Stiff/Epic Records PE 36102
33-RPM LP
Although not strictly a one-hit wonder, Lene Lovich’s best known song, Lucky Number, was the second single to be released from her 1979 debut album, Stateless (the first single, Lovich’s cover of I Think We’re Alone Now, failed to chart; ironically, it was backed with an early version of Lucky Number). Here’s an interesting little titbit: although uncredited, Lovich and recording engineer Alain Wisniak wrote lyrics for Cerrone’s Supernature.
New wave in style, some of the Lovich’s vocals on this album remind me of Hazel O’Connor (of Breaking Glass fame), especially Sleeping Beauty.
Sound quality wise, this album isn’t bad at all. Yes, it’s a bit flat and the soundstage is a bit narrow (rarely, if ever, venturing beyond the edge the speakers), but I think that’s to be expected from what is essentially an ordinary commercial pop recording. I’ve certainly heard a lot worse!
I was fortunate enough to find a sealed NOS (new old stock) copy of this record, so it was in pristine condition with silent surfaces (the latter being a pleasant surprise!). If the genre appeals to you, give this one a try.