Review of Bucks Fizz debut Album (1981) Track by Track

TRACKS + Bonus Mixes + Demos

Piece Of The Action- This was a killer second single from Bucks Fizz after Eurovision,  it was the first time we heard those synth drums that were to be come the trademark sound of Bucks Fizz. This was a highlight of the album, and this foursome really did grap a massive slice of the UK action at the time
Midnight Reservation- I have a real thing about train songs, (and not in an anarak- way either) the way the chorus  builds to perfect vocals - when I first played the LP I remember this was my favourite  (Abba's 'Nina' another example of Train Tracks- without train in the title)
It's Got To Be Love- Mike Nolan's debut slow ballad. If you didnt know,  Cheryl Baker confessed on BBC Radio 2 that she had a love at first sight crush on Mike,  during the band's early days.. a secret Cheryl never shared before with not even Mike. Well as the pair duet on that very subject Love-  this tune takes on a whole extra layer and new meaning.
Took It To The Limit- Another album highlight- the production is amazing on this  track. So how it ended up as a B side on the 'Piece Of The Action' in hindsight it could have been another single for the Fizz. It went off in a very funky jazz direction towards the songs close. One for the dance floor for sure.
One Of Those Nights- The third single from the album and a showcase of Bobby Gee's vocal style- and once again the shape of what was to come from the Fizz- anthems and terrific building giant chorus. It was never going to be another No:1 but a worthy follow-up hit. Making Your Mind Up-  This song just never seems to age to me, and has  so many hooks it's just not true. It was never an obvious Eurovison entry, yet the perfect example of taking one of the biggest risks in the song contest's history that paid off big time. Lady Of The Night- This track was Bucks Fizz pushing the boundaries of 1981, a song of ladies of the night, at the time I am sure I was not alone in never realising that was what the song was all about. It was later recorded by  Bardo as a B-side, however it did not compare with the B F original track for me. Getting Kinda Lonely- One of the best Fizz ballads, and this showcases Jay Aston's vocal power so well on this track, she always had a mature edge for the band's baby. Plus some great orchestral arrangements on this track. Shine On- Another favourite on the album for me. With a dose of Fizz funk on this uptempo track, it would be a great oldie for the band to bring back  into the Live shows they are doing all over UK and Ireland this summer. The Right Situation- This track has always been 'Making your...' part two- what a shame, there was'nt a third part, but I think the Rock n Fizz theme was dropped after this album? What a great album closer

Don't Stop- B side A worthy album track for certain this song and of course everyone whole brought the Eurovision single got this as a wonderful B-side  one of the Fizz's best.
Always Thinking of You- B side Another ballad with a difference, and Miss  Cheryl tugged on the heartstrings with just amazing vocal production.  Footnote Bardo did this track as well  in a completely different style that worked really well. I wonder if Bucks Fizz ever recorded 'One Step Further' -except the  boys, demo cut of course.
One Of Those Nights (Demo)- One Of Those Nights (Extended Mix)- This is an Extended single version that actually never was around back  in the 80s although the 2012 re-production is excellent, as well  as a stripped down demo version
Piece of The Action (Demo)-
Piece of The Action (Stephen Vaudin Dedication Mix)- An amazing 7 minute remix of Piece Of The Action'one of this deluxe  CD highlights I love it... The Right Situation (Early Mix)- a stripped down mix without the  JiveBunny effect, I actually like this more than the original album  version. It still has the party vibe but a lot more bass rythmn to it. Making Your Mind Up (Fat Dog Mix)- This is a bit of a Demo  Mix the vocals are fantastic and  the handclaps are all there - without those handclaps it's just not Making your mind up for me. Making your Mind Up (2011 Anniversary Mix)- Not as good as F at Dog Mix, but another great remix that takes the track off into an almost pulp fiction direction - if that is possible. Making Your Mind Up (Matt Pop's Bending The Rules Mix)- This  mix is a slow starter  but I love the way the Eurovision anthem is blended at the start!   It certainly is a sing-a-long mix more than get on the dance floor  Mix that Matt Pop is famous for...I think I still prefer the 90's Hi energy mixes of Eurovis' Classic.