Back in the ’80s, Ultravox and Berlin were among the leading forces behind the so-called New Romantics’ movement in rock. Immensely popular at the time, this sub-genre had its re-appearance from time to time in the decades that followed. Still, it seems to be currently gaining attention with bands like Duran Duran, as well as the two aforementioned, having their output re-assessed in a positive light.
That just might be a reason for the joint re-appearance of John Crawford and Robin Simon, under the banner of JCRS. The former was the founder and principal songwriter of Berlin, and latter was the lead guitarist for Ultravox and Visage. The duo is back with “There’s Only You,” a single that precedes their forthcoming album that is billed as “a clash of ’80s songwriting, with ethereal synths and moody futuristic space echo guitar texture.”
So, based on the single, does the billing truly describe the music to be expected from the duo?
Indeed, particularly the way JCRS employ their obvious synth/guitar skills, along with the vocals and melody that harks back to the days when shoulder pads and fancy hairdos were as important as the music itself.
This time around, Crawford and Simon skip the fashion and concentrate on the music with their knowledge and experience, bringing back a sound that deserves to stick around.
