"Tempted" by Squeeze

Song#:  0693
Date:  08/01/1981
Debut:  83
Peak:  49
Weeks:  11
Genre:  New Wave, Blue-Eyed Soul



Pop Bits:  Already successful in their native UK, the group was finally poised to get some attention in the US after their previous album produced the college radio hit "Pulling Mussels (From the Shell)." Their fourth album, "East Side Story," was co-produced by Elvis Costello and this first single became the group's first US pop chart entry. Although it just missed the Top 40, the song far outlived its peak position and has become an 80s music favorite.

ReduxReview:  I remember their album "Argybargy" as a college roommate used to play it quite a bit. I didn't quite get it, but did like "Pulling Mussels." Now I get it and I appreciate that album along with "East Side Story." I've always been surprised this song didn't do better. It's a terrific song that takes their pop/new wave and incorporates a bit of blue-eyed soul. I like many of their songs, but this is probably their best single.

ReduxRating:  8/10

Trivia:  After "Argybargy," the group's keyboardist, Jools Holland, left for a solo career. His replacement was Paul Carrack who was previously in the group Ace. They had a hit in 1975 with the #3 "How Long." It was Carrack who supplied the lead vocals for this song. He left the group after one album but would return years later for another short stint with the group.

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