Before punk became fashionable in the late 1970s, there were already bands that maximized their impact and kept their technique to a minimum. One of these was called The Modern Lovers, a group that existed briefly in the early 1970s and was led by the crazy bird Jonathan Richman. After the breakup of this band, Richman stated that he no longer wanted to make music that could hurt babies' ears. It
… must be said that Richman has kept his word and that his latest work will not make a baby cry. O Moon, Queen Of Night On Earth is an accessible album that fits his status as a cult hero. Only rarely does he penetrate the mainstream, such as during his role in the blockbuster There's Something About Mary (1998). Only assisted by his regular sidekick Tommy Larkins, the thirteen short songs focus on Richman's voice and guitar. The childish humor for which the singer is known has also been largely omitted, leaving only the rudimentary power of his songs. Empty, rarely exciting and yet good. Only the great can do that. (JE)more
