Cowboy

This release is part of Erasure's 30th anniversary campaign and is pressed on 180 Gram vinyl with original artwork and packaging. After 1995's expansive, experimental 'Erasure' album, and its subsequent poor sales and decidedly mixed reception (even among fans), Erasure returned to their roots on 1997's 'Cowboy.' The emphasis here is on hooks, melodies and catchy arrangements (Andy Bell said "Cowboy" is "ultrapop") - nothing deep, nothing innovative. And it works perfectly. With Vince Clarke's melodic gifts still in fine form and Andy Bell's voice as clear and pristine as ever (in addition to his romantic, occasionally awkward lyrics), 'Cowboy' is the fourth straight near-perfect pop album from Erasure. Some bands fade creatively as the years go by - Erasure continues to improve.