Squeeze Unearths a Lost Gem: Revisiting the Haunting Beauty of ‘Trixies’
For fans of bright, emotionally resonant pop, the news is exhilarating. Squeeze, the iconic British songwriting duo, is about to unveil a long-lost album, ‘trixies,’ originally recorded in 1982 but shelved until now. This isn’t just a re-release; itS a rediscovery,offering a engaging glimpse into a pivotal moment in the band’s creative evolution.
The story of ‘Trixies’ is one of timing and circumstance. Completed during a period of intense creativity following the success of albums like ‘New Gold Standard,’ the record was ultimately deemed too different from their established sound for immediate release. Now, decades later, it’s poised to take its rightful place in the Squeeze discography.
A Darker Shade of Squeeze
You might be familiar with Squeeze’s knack for witty observation and melodic brilliance.However, ‘Trixies’ reveals a more introspective and, at times, darker side to their songwriting. Consider “The Dancer,” a poignant portrait of a nightclub performer grappling with inner turmoil, or “The Place We Call Mars,” which opens with a stark and unsettling scene.
This shift in tone wasn’t accidental. Chris Difford, one half of the songwriting partnership, cites David Bowie‘s interpretations of Jacques Brel as a key influence. He also acknowledges a personal resonance with the album’s themes, reflecting the complexities of young adulthood.
Rediscovering Lost Potential
Revisiting the original demos has been a revelation for both Difford and Glenn Tilbrook. They were struck by the strength of the material and the potential that lay dormant for so long. Producer Owen Biddle, also Squeeze’s bassist since 2020, brought a fresh perspective, suggesting a revised track order that unlocked a new narrative flow.
Tilbrook describes Biddle’s suggestion as a pivotal moment, recognizing the power of a carefully curated listening experience. It’s a testament to the enduring quality of the songs that they continue to inspire new interpretations.
Bringing ‘Trixies’ to Life
So far, the songs “Hell on Earth” and “You get the Feeling” have been previewed live, generating considerable excitement among fans. Inspired by Elton John’s acclaimed performances of ‘Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy,’ Squeeze plans a full tour dedicated to performing ‘Trixies’ in its entirety.
This commitment to the album as a cohesive work underscores its artistic significance. It’s a chance for audiences to experience ‘Trixies’ as the songwriters originally intended.
A Journey Continues
Tilbrook expresses immense pride in the youthful ambition and vulnerability captured on ‘Trixies.’ He believes you can hear the hopes and dreams of the band at a crucial juncture in their career. Difford echoes this sentiment, emphasizing that their creative journey is far from over.
Indeed, even as they revisit the past, Squeeze remains firmly focused on the future. A new album of original material is already in the works, proving that this iconic duo continues to evolve and inspire.
Ultimately, ‘Trixies’ is more than just a lost album found. It’s a reminder of the power of artistic exploration, the enduring strength of a songwriting partnership, and the timeless appeal of music that dares to delve into the depths of the human experience.
‘Trixies’ is released on March 6th. The single ‘Trixies Pt 1’ is available now.
