Album Information Section
Album Title: Come Dancing With The Kinks: The Best of The Kinks 1977–1986
Artist: The Kinks
Original Release Date: June 1986
Label: Unknown Label
Genres: Rock, Pop, New Wave
Track Listing:
- 1. Come Dancing (3:57)
- 2. Low Budget (3:50)
- 3. Catch Me Now I’m Falling (6:00)
- 4. A Gallon of Gas (3:50)
- 5. (Wish I Could Fly Like) Superman (disco edit) (6:00)
- 6. Sleepwalker (4:05)
- 7. Full Moon (3:53)
- 8. Misfits (4:43)
- 9. A Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy (5:00)
- 10. Do It Again (4:13)
- 11. Better Things (2:59)
- 12. Lola (live) (4:48)
- 13. You Really Got Me (live) (3:40)
- 14. Good Day (4:35)
- 15. Living on a Thin Line (4:17)
- 16. Destroyer (3:48)
- 17. Don’t Forget to Dance (4:39)
- 18. Father Christmas (3:44)
Recording Information
The album “Come Dancing With The Kinks: The Best of The Kinks 1977–1986” was recorded at various studios, primarily in the United Kingdom and the United States, as the band traveled extensively during this period. While specific studio locations for each track are not always documented, The Kinks frequently utilized notable studios such as Konk Studios in London, which was owned by the band itself.
The recording sessions spanned from the late 1970s through to the mid-1980s, capturing the essence of the band’s evolving sound during this dynamic period. The producers involved in this compilation included Ray Davies, the band’s frontman and principal songwriter, who played a crucial role in shaping the band’s distinctive sound. Other contributors included notable engineers and production teams that helped refine their studio recordings.
Throughout this period, The Kinks incorporated various recording techniques, blending traditional rock instrumentation with emerging styles like new wave and disco. The use of synthesizers and layered vocal harmonies became more pronounced, especially in tracks like “(Wish I Could Fly Like) Superman,” showcasing their ability to adapt to contemporary trends while maintaining their unique identity. An interesting production note is that “Come Dancing” was inspired by Ray Davies’ nostalgic reflections on the dance halls of his youth, which added an autobiographical layer to the song’s narrative.
Band Context
At the time of the album’s original release in 1986, The Kinks were experiencing a resurgence in popularity, largely due to their ability to reinvent themselves stylistically. The lineup during this period consisted of Ray Davies (lead vocals, guitar), Dave Davies (lead guitar, vocals), Jim Rodford (bass guitar), and Mick Avory (drums). This lineup was crucial in delivering the blend of rock and pop that characterized their later work.
Prior to the release of this compilation, The Kinks had navigated various ups and downs, including the challenges of the music industry and internal conflicts. The late 1970s were particularly pivotal, as the band faced management issues and fluctuating commercial success. However, the early 1980s saw them regain their footing with albums like “Low Budget” and “Give the People What They Want,” both of which contributed significantly to their renewed commercial appeal.
Significant events during this time included their performance at the 1985 Live Aid concert, which exposed their music to a new generation of fans and reignited interest in their catalog. This compilation served as a testament to their enduring legacy, encapsulating a decade of creativity and evolution.
Track Commentary
The album features a diverse array of tracks that highlight The Kinks’ ability to blend various musical styles. The opening track, “Come Dancing,” is a memorable anthem that captures the spirit of nostalgia, with its catchy melody and relatable lyrics about the joys of dancing and youthful romance. This song became one of their most recognized hits and exemplifies their knack for storytelling.
“Low Budget” and “Catch Me Now I’m Falling” reflect the band’s commentary on contemporary life and the struggles faced by the working class, with sharp lyrics and infectious hooks. The incorporation of disco elements in “(Wish I Could Fly Like) Superman,” especially in the disco edit version featured on this compilation, showcases their willingness to experiment with different genres.
Other standout tracks include “Better Things,” which has been lauded for its optimistic outlook and poignant lyrics, and “Father Christmas,” a seasonal favorite that combines humor with social commentary. The live renditions of “Lola” and “You Really Got Me” provide a glimpse into the band’s energetic performances, capturing the essence of their live shows and the connection they had with their audience.
The critical reception of “Come Dancing With The Kinks” was generally positive, as it served as an excellent introduction to both new listeners and longtime fans, encapsulating the band’s evolution and highlighting their most significant works from the late 1970s to the mid-1980s. The album remains a vital piece of The Kinks’ discography, reflecting their resilience and artistic creativity during a transformative era in music history.
