Ian Matthews

"Spot of Interference" 1980

With his previous outing, the overly polished Siamese Friends (1979), Ian Matthews failed to capitalize on the Top 20 success of "Shake It," from his 1978 release, Stealin' Home. He quickly returned the following year with a new U.S. label, a new direction, and a new album, Spot of Interference. His third straight record produced by Sandy Roberton, Spot of Interference leaves behind the MOR feel that had dominated his last four or five years, in favor of a power pop and new wave sound that fits him curiously well. Aside from pairing once again with Roberton, he also continues his work with Siamese Friends songwriting collaborators and musicians Bob Metzger and Mark Griffiths. These teamings yield some fine moments and performances, but it's covers like the frenetic pop/rock of "I Survived the '70s" and Jules Shear's "Driftwood From Disaster" that push Matthews, as well as his ordinarily sweet tenor, to the limit. And though this may seem a bit out of character, he never comes off like a misplaced folkie. Other highlights include former bandmate Richard Thompson's social rant, "Civilisation," as well as an updated version of the Left Banke's "She May Call You Up Tonight," which sounds as fresh here as it did in 1967. His one and only release for RSO Records, Spot of Interference was Matthews' best album since Some Days You Eat the Bear and Some Days the Bear Eats You in 1974. ~ Brett Hartenbach, All Music Guide