Guest Post by Patrick Bateman

Those familiar with the psychological thriller / slasher film American Psycho (based on the novel of the same name) will recognize Patrick Bateman as the sociopathic yuppie protagonist of the story who tries so desperately to fit into high society but finds it increasingly difficult to control his baser tendencies. As part of this mask he puts on to seem normal, he frequently entertains guests at his home with very detailed monologues centered about popular 80s musicians and their more well-known songs. Although the content of his dissertations are more shallow than they are insightful, these monologues provide an unexpected comedic respite in the midst of a macabre plot. So without further ado, here are Mr. Bateman's takes on three pop artists and their "hits".

Huey Lewis and the News

Do you like Huey Lewis and the News? [...]

Their early work was a little too 'new-wave' for my taste, but when Sports came out in '83, I think they really came into their own - commercially and artistically. The whole album has a clear, crisp sound, and a new sheen of consummate professionalism that really gives the songs a big boost. He's been compared to Elvis Costello, but I think Huey has a far more bitter, cynical sense of humor. [...]

In '87, Huey released this, Fore!, their most accomplished album. I think their undisputed masterpiece is "Hip To Be Square", a song so catchy most people probably don't listen to the lyrics - but they should! Because it's not just about the pleasures of conformity, and the importance of trends, it's also a personal statement about the band itself!

Phil Collins

Do you like Phil Collins?

I've been a big Genesis fan ever since the release of their 1980 album, Duke. Before that, I really didn't understand any of their work. Too artsy, too intellectual. It was on Duke where, uh, Phil Collins' presence became more apparent. I think Invisible Touch was the group's undisputed masterpiece. It's an epic meditation on intangibility. At the same time, it deepens and enriches the meaning of the preceding three albums. [...] Listen to the brilliant ensemble playing of Banks, Collins and Rutherford. You can practically hear every nuance of every instrument. [...] In terms of lyrical craftsmanship, the sheer songwriting, this album hits a new peak of professionalism. [...] Take the lyrics to "Land of Confusion". In this song, Phil Collins addresses the problems of abusive political authority. "In Too Deep" is the most moving pop song of the 1980s, about monogamy and commitment. The song is extremely uplifting. Their lyrics are as positive and affirmative as, uh, anything I've heard in rock.[...]

Phil Collins' solo career seems to be more commercial and therefore more satisfying, in a narrower way. Especially songs like "In the Air Tonight" and, uh, "Against All Odds". [...] But I also think Phil Collins works best within the confines of the group, than as a solo artist, and I stress the word artist. This is "Sussudio", a great, great song, a personal favorite.

Whitney Houston

Did you know that Whitney Houston's debut LP, called simply Whitney Houston, had 4 number one singles on it? [...]

It's hard to choose a favorite among so many great tracks, but "The Greatest Love of All" is one of the best, most powerful songs ever written about self-preservation, dignity. Its universal message crosses all boundaries and instills one with the hope that it's not too late to better ourselves. Since [...] it's impossible in this world we live in to empathize with others, we can always empathize with ourselves. It's an important message, crucial really. And it's beautifully stated on the album.

Just say the word,
Kelvin