Changes to THey Might BE Giants?

here's how I'd change them:

replace drum machine w/bill bruford

Replace bassist w/john wetton

shoot singer. New bassist sings quite well.

replace guitarist w/robert fripp

draft in mellotron/violin player david cross.

I thought I'd get in first hehehe

xoxo

I think this is a really good question. I don't know enough about them to contribute any specific suggestions, but TMBG seem like a very good example of a band who write some fantastic songs that are spoiled by image/crappy instrumentation/voice etc (as well as being known for their most irritatingly quirky, novelty song). I'd love to hear someone cover something like 'I've Got A Match' or 'They'll Need A Crane' (Lincoln is the only album I own).

Solution: an earnest record. Listening to Apollo 18 and the period following, I can't see how anyone could deny that these guys have the ability to write some spot-on, stunning pop songs; if they could just wipe the goof off---that is, wipe it off completely, rather than half-assing it---I think they could make a record at least as solid and impressive as, say, the New Pornographers' (and probably in the same vein, I'd guess).

But if they have to goofy, I'd love to see them do some Limp Biskit covers. Seriously, wouldn't that rule?

That or it would take them back to same quirky level of juvinalia that earned them initial attention. I've always admired the scotch-tape and populist spirit (allowing callers to vote on songs recorded on their answering machine), but I've also wondered what they would sound like if they had a female singer? (A: Combustible Edison, perhaps?)

Some of the songs on Flood sound reasonably organic (Lucky Ball n' Chain, Letterbox, Women n' Men). Most of Lincoln and first album are way too midied. Can't beat "Rhythm Section Want Ad" tho.

But I generally agree with Mr. Hanle y: their records haven't held up that well, even tho many of the songs are above par.

Perhaps with next wave of music media (post-DVD audio) we'll be able to change/remix/tweak albums really easily! I'll add Fred Schneider to every song in my record collection! Wouldn't that be just kitschy?

no

I meant the colour of the type, not TMBG. ;-)

The multimedia file doesn't display at all in my browser. Hooray for Netscape 3.

They did? I guess I'll have to check them out again. I stopped listening 8 years ago. Too much Seinfeild bass!