Why “The Bangles” Sound Even Better to Me Now
Why The Bangles sound even better to me now. When I first heard the “The Bangles,” I essentially brushed them off as a novelty girl band. For me, they resembled a female version of a “hair band” which likely had more sparkle than substance. But their music told a different story, and they sounded like a band mature beyond than their years.
While visually they gave off a somewhat edgy persona, the music was actually soft rock/pop. And the song I first heard from them was “Manic Monday.” While it seemed reminiscent of “Monday, Monday” by The Mamas and Papas, it was not the same. Manic Monday’s message was different, and they definitely had a winner with it. Witten by Prince, under a pseudonym, he apparently gifted it to them. Which is a good thing as it brought them the recognition they needed.
YouTube / The Bangles
Origin of “The Bangles”
The Bangles were formed 1980, in Los Angeles, with Susanna Hoffs (Rhythm Guitar/Vocals), Peterson sisters Debbie (Drums/Vocals), Vicky (Lead Guitar/Vocals) and Annette Zilinskas (Bass/Vocals). Initially called The Bangs, they changed to The Bangles, as that name had already been taken. Their common musical tastes helped cement them further. For me, this lineup is the soul of The Bangles and what generates their best work.
Over the years the lineup would change. But while the band goes through various iterations, for me it’s their music that matters. Their success is helped on by big name mentors such as Prince, Paul Simon, and of course their own talent.
Different Light
The Bangles’ first album, All Over the Place, from 1984 is a rarity as the label they had signed up for went under. But it’s their second album, Different Light, released 1986, that took The Bangles up the charts. Manic Monday was from this album, and it broke into the top 10 position around the world. In South Africa where I heard it the first time, Manic Monday reached No. 1.
The other monster hit from this album, Walk Like an Egyptian, became an even bigger hit. To be honest, while it sounded good, I never knew what the big deal was about that song. It had an even cornier music video. Maybe I was just culturally sensitive, but not so much as to ban the song – as was done by some. Oh well. So, Different Light put The Bangles among the top artists in the mid-80s.
Everything
The Bangles’ third album, Everything, continued where the previous one left off. Once again, they proved they more than just a one-hit wonder by coming out with two more of my favorites on the album, which was released in 1988.
The first one was the quick tempo, edgy In Your Room. But my real favorite from Everything was Eternal Light. Apparently, the world agrees, because this one also raced to the top of the charts around the world. Listening to the lyrics, music, and Hoffs’ wonderful vocals, you realize it has a timeless appeal, and sounds just as good today, as it did back then.
YouTube / The Bangles
Group Effort
I consider these three albums as the most defining period for The Bangles. While they released other material and compilations, best decade of music has gone by. In the 80s, you needed some extraordinary talent to stand out among the eclectic artists. The Bangles managed to do that.
It’s often mentioned that Susanna Hoffs was the defining force or face of The Bangles. While she was definitely attractive, talented and a likely dominant personality, it would be unfair not to the credit the rest of the band. Their input was just important, and they were all good looking, and talented. This singling out the media may have added to their internal differences.
So Why Do I like them More Now?
The Bangles, through sheer brilliance of their music, won me over when I wanted to ignore them. In fact, they actually proved all-girl bands should not be taken lightly.
As I find myself listening more and more of the music from my youth, my favorite Bangles songs has that extra feel to them. They reminds me of how they won me over from a skeptic to a fan. Which is why my respect for them has grown exponentially. Hearing them, is not only a joy, but also an emotional experience which adds an extra layer of appreciation.
One Final One to Close Off
In closing let us check out one more song that defines them for me. Released in 1987 as a single, it was a cover of the Simon and Garfunkel song A Hazy Shae of Winter, which was used for the film “Less Than Zero.”
YouTube / Enhanced Music Videos
So this was an appreciation of The Bangles – a wonderful, and invaluable part of the soundtrack of our lives. A band that sound even better now than they did back then for some of their memorable hits.
More Detailed Bangles Discography
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