Their new album (first in 20 years) came out today. I've only heard the title song "Funplex," but based on that I plan on getting the full album. It was fun (and eased my frustrations from the past few days) to listen to my guilty pop-music pleasure.

You can hear the new song here.

Cheers,

-P

Did you get the album? I have always liked this band, but was leary of listening after a 20 yr break. (although I did like the new REM)

To this day, I still think the B52s concert in DC back in 86 was the best I have seen. The really seem to have fun

Just downloaded the album from iTunes.

So far, so good.

Am I the only one here who likes them?

-P

Just got it. So far, it's the same flavor as they used to have. Of course, I've only heard 3 songs. I'll let you know what I think after I hear the full album.

It has two songs recorded live from the Roxy...That's the perfect venue for them. I'd make the trip if they went there again.

Cheers,

-P

Favorite song of the album so far:

Juliet of the Spirits.

It's also probably the least like their original format.

-P

Little known fact: the main guitar riff for the B52s hit "Rock Lobster" is essentially lifted from the middle section of Van Halen's song "On Fire", which was released several months earlier in 1978.

Ummmm.....not disputing the claim, but imagination-wise it's a bit of a stretch for me to make. The timing and phrasing are quite different but I'll allow that the melodies are similar. I've never heard this before, is this something the B-52's copped to? Just curious.

Saw them in Pontiac in '04. They sounded good but it was evident that Kate Pierson and Cindy Wilson weren't going to try to hit the high notes they used to. Might have been age-related, I don't know. It was a good show, even though I had to leave early.

Actually the timing and phrasing are quite close. It's the key that's different. As a longtime band roadie, I noticed this a few years ago, and just about every musician with whom I discuss this subject sees how similar the two riffs are.

The B52s have never commented on the subject (to the best of my knowledge). Having met Kate Pierson 12+ years ago, I think the band is too arty to admit they borrowed something, even if the source of inspiration was one of the most influential guitarists in rock history.

Being a B52's fan is one of my guilty pleasures. I had no idea they had released another album until I had heard "Funplex" on the radio a few days ago. I enjoyed it...I'll have to listen to the rest ASAP.

Juliet is a very good song. Very subversive, in a good way..

Just listened to both songs several times back and forth (I paused on the riff you mention). While slightly similar, they are each unique. I wouldn't go so far as to say it was lifted.

Cheers,

-P

I guess we'll agree to disagree but it was hilarious to watch one of my friends belt out the words to "Rock Lobster" during the middle section of "On Fire" back on New Year's Eve when I told him about it.

A local talk show played the entire album (Album of the day is a regular feature). They mix songs in after breaks. The album is typical B52 all the way. Not any bad cuts in my opinion.