Album Info
| Artist: | Au Pairs |
| Album: | Sense And Sensuality |
| Released: | UK, Aug 1982 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Don't Lie Back | |
| A2 | (That's When) It's Worth It | |
| A3 | Instant Touch | |
| A4 | Sex Without Stress | |
| A5 | Fiasco | |
| B1 | Intact | |
| B2 | Tongue In Cheek | |
| B3 | Stepping Out Of Line | |
| B4 | Shakedown | |
| B5 | America |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne's North (Australia)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- All pictures of the second hand/used vinyl records are actual pictures of the album in stock.
- We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post.
- Free Shipping for orders $125 and over.
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- We also ship internationally - prices vary depending on weight and location.
- We ship vinyls in thick, rigid carboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- We almost always ship your vinyl next business day (excluding pre orders)
- We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn't arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record.
- If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store.
- You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at info@funkyduckvinyl.com
- Happy Listening!
Description
The post-punk era, particularly the early 1980s, was a time of experimentation, energy, and rebelling against the norms. Amid this atmosphere, bands like Au Pairs made their mark, presenting their own blend of punk ethos, feminist perspective, and innovative musical ideas. "Sense And Sensuality," released in 1982, was the band's second and final studio album, but its themes, rhythm, and power resonate to this day.
From the outset, "Sense And Sensuality" showcases a departure from the raw punk energy of their debut album. Instead, there's a discernible move towards funk, jazz, and even reggae influences, delivering a matured sound. Yet, the record retains the Au Pairs' trademark urgency and socio-political commentary, particularly centered on gender roles and sexual politics.
"Instant Touch" opens the album with an intricate percussion and bass-driven beat. The song, with its rhythmic vibrancy, sets the tone for a more experimental sound that permeates the entire album. Singer Lesley Woods' distinct voice, characterized by its assertive tone, delves into themes of intimacy and connection in a consumerist world.
Songs like "Sex Without Stress" and "Shakedown" are prime examples of the band's feminist perspective. The lyrics challenge societal norms of relationships, offering a candid exploration of love and intimacy beyond the constraints of convention. Woods' vocals, alternating between confrontational and almost pleading, encapsulate the band's ethos—questioning, confronting, yet seeking understanding.
The rhythmic backbone provided by Jane Munro on bass and Paul Foad on guitar gives a danceable groove to the album. "Don't Lie Back" and "That's When It's Worth It" exude funk-infused beats that would not be out of place in a dance club. Yet, it's the lyrical content that keeps them firmly rooted in the post-punk sphere, tackling topics of personal agency and empowerment.
Another standout track, "Fiasco," delves into reggae rhythms, further showcasing the band's genre-blurring tendencies. Here, the emphasis is on the instrumentation, with Woods' voice adding an almost ethereal quality. The song's message, commenting on superficiality and the perils of complacency, is a recurring theme throughout the album.
Instrumentally, "Sense And Sensuality" is a masterclass in the fusion of genres. The infusion of jazz, particularly in the drum patterns and guitar licks, adds depth to the tracks. This is especially evident in "Piece of Mind," where the band explores a more introspective sound, culminating in a hauntingly beautiful saxophone solo.
One of the intriguing aspects of "Sense And Sensuality" is its ability to balance danceable tracks with profound, thought-provoking lyrics. The band doesn't shy away from addressing societal issues head-on, yet they package these messages in beats and melodies that captivate listeners.
In retrospect, "Sense And Sensuality" serves as a poignant reminder of Au Pairs' brief yet impactful presence in the post-punk scene. While they may have disbanded shortly after this release, their message and musical prowess left an indelible mark. The album stands as a testament to their ability to evolve musically while staying true to their roots, offering listeners a blend of energy, insight, and, above all, authenticity.