Tuesday, April 15, 2014

UK Indie Hits: 1980-89 (No. 30)

I'm counting down my top 50 singles from the golden age of the UK Independent Charts.

30. The Lightning Seeds - "Pure"

Other Contenders: "Joy" was the only other charting single... at least in this decade.

Chart Entry: July 8, 1989

Peak Position: No. 1

Comment: Ian Broudie is one of my musical heroes. I just wish Care would have had a hit with "Whatever Possessed You." That would have looked really good nestled in my Top 10, but I digress. "Pure" was such a catchy piece of pop that in 1990 it even managed to crack the Top 40 here in America (for his only time). Broudie as the Lightning Seeds would go on to be quite a hit-making machine in the UK throughout the 1990s, but this first single was always my favorite. Now don't get me started with Broudie as producer. The list of those he's worked with is quite a who's who!

Buy "Pure" on 'Cloudcuckooland.'

7 comments:

Dirk said...

Oh, I haven't heard this for several years, will listen to it on the weekend again: thanks!

Echorich said...

The Lightning Seeds are like a comfortable chair. You know they are there and every time you fall into it, you get pleasure. This is what listening to The Lightning Seeds provide me. I have to say I would have a hard time choosing between Joy, Pure and Sense. The ongoing collaboration with Mr. Terry Hall has led to a great deal of pleasure for these ears.

Brian said...

Hey Dirk. Hope you enjoy it. It's pure and simple. I bet your son might even like this one. Well, the cover probably isn't too interesting to a youngster...

Greetings Echorich. Hall and Broudie... what a combo! I saw that you and I provided the lone comments when TVT highlighted the Colourfield last week. Even though I was on vacation I had to leave a note via phone. Too good.

Séamus Duggan said...

I remember this so well. Loved the sound and was already very aware of Broudie as a producer before this came out. Particularly with The Bunnymen and his part in the legendary Big in Japan. Have to say this was not what I expected from him - thought he'd be more brooding and post-punk, but it was irresistible none the less.

Brian said...

You're so right about the unexpected sound, Seamus. Pure pop. The thing I remember about Broudie was just that I kept seeing his name pop up on my records. Who is this guy? His work as producer was the key to getting me into his work on the other side of the glass. I have no idea what made him a good producer, obviously he had a great ear, but what was clear was everyone I liked wanted to work with him. Must be quite a fella.

george said...

Echorich's comments are absolutely spot on. An excellent pop song, insanely catchy, a pleasure to the ears.

Brian said...

George, Good to hear from you. Pleased you like this one. I have a feeling you won't be so happy with No. 29.

Congrats on a really great series over at your place.