Ultravox • Quartet
Chrysalis Records CDL 1394
33-RPM LP
Released in 1982, Quartet was the third album from UK new wave/synthpop group Ultravox’s “Midge Ure” years, succeeding Vienna and Rage in Eden. The other band members from this era (which is often referred to as “the classic line-up”) were Warren Cann on drums, Chris Cross on bass, and Billie Currie on keyboards and violin.
Side one kicks off with the upbeat Reap the Wild Wind, and ends with the sermon-like Hymn. Reminiscent of Vienna’s title track, the haunting Visions in Blue is the first track on side two. Side two also contains what is arguably the album’s weakest track, We Came to Dance, but ends with two great numbers: Cut and Run and The Song (We Go). The frenzied drum solo from the latter was later featured in Ultravox’s Monument tour, at the end of The Voice.
With warm, driving bass and pounding drums, the sound quality on this record is surprisingly good. It has great dynamics, clean treble, and a wide sound stage. The latter isn’t as wide as the best studio recordings, but is a big improvement over some rock recordings which are so middle-centric that they almost sound like they were recorded in mono!
If you can find a copy of this record in good condition, I’d say it’s worth a try if you’re not familiar with Ultravox; and if you are familiar with Ultravox, it’s arguable that this record is a must-buy! Recommended, then, for the great music and sound.