Album Information Section
Album Title: Love Among the Cannibals
Artist: Starship
Original Release Date: July 26, 1989
Label: RCA
Genres: Rock, Pop Rock
Track Listing:
- 1. The Burn (4:25)
- 2. It’s Not Enough (4:50)
- 3. Trouble in Mind (4:35)
- 4. I Didn’t Mean to Stay All Night (4:51)
- 5. Send a Message (4:50)
- 6. Wild Again (4:44)
- 7. Love Among the Cannibals (3:44)
- 8. We Dream in Color (6:27)
- 9. Healing Waters (4:58)
- 10. Blaze of Love (4:36)
- 11. I’ll Be There (5:32)
Recording Information
Love Among the Cannibals was recorded primarily at the renowned Bearsville Studios located in Woodstock, New York. The recording sessions took place in early 1989, capturing the band’s evolving sound as they transitioned further into the late 1980s rock scene.
The album was produced by the talented team of Peter Wolf and Jeff Lynne, both of whom brought their distinct styles to the project. Wolf, known for his work with the J. Geils Band, infused a fresh energy, while Lynne, a founding member of Electric Light Orchestra, contributed his signature melodic sensibility. The engineering was handled by several notable figures, ensuring high-quality sound that would characterize the album.
Noteworthy production techniques included the use of layered vocal harmonies and synthesizer arrangements, which were prominent in the sound of the era. Stories from the studio suggest that the band aimed to create a more polished and radio-friendly sound, reflecting the commercial pressures they faced at the time.
Band Context
At the time of the album’s release, Starship was riding the wave of their commercial success from the mid-1980s. The band had undergone several transformations, evolving from Jefferson Starship, a band with roots in the counterculture movement of the 1960s, to a more mainstream rock entity. This transition was marked by a shift towards pop-oriented songs that garnered significant radio play and commercial success.
The lineup during the recording of Love Among the Cannibals included Grace Slick, Mickey Thomas, Paul Kantner, and other supporting musicians. Slick, a prominent figure in the band’s history, lent her iconic vocals to several tracks, while Thomas continued to solidify his role as the lead vocalist following the departure of former members.
Prior to this album, Starship had experienced a series of hits and controversies, including the backlash from fans regarding their more commercial sound. However, they continued to find success, and Love Among the Cannibals was a testament to their ability to remain relevant in a rapidly changing musical landscape.
Track Commentary
The album opens with “The Burn,” a track that captures the listener’s attention with its dynamic instrumentation and emotive vocals, setting the tone for the rest of the record. “It’s Not Enough” follows, featuring a catchy chorus and a strong pop-rock vibe that exemplifies the band’s shift towards a more commercial sound.
Other notable tracks include “Wild Again,” which showcases a more traditional rock sound with a driving rhythm, and the title track “Love Among the Cannibals,” which blends melodic elements with deeper lyrical themes. “We Dream in Color” stands out as a lengthy exploration of sound and emotion, reflecting the band’s willingness to experiment with longer song structures.
The album’s singles, including “It’s Not Enough” and “I’ll Be There,” received mixed critical reception, with some praising their catchy hooks while others lamented the lack of the band’s earlier edge. Despite this, the album has since been recognized as an essential part of Starship’s discography, marking a significant moment in their evolution as artists.
Overall, Love Among the Cannibals serves as a bridge between the band’s storied past and their future, encapsulating the challenges and triumphs they faced during a pivotal moment in music history. Its blend of rock and pop elements continues to resonate with fans old and new, solidifying its place in the annals of 1980s rock music.
