The Nectarine No. 9 - I Love Total Destruction (CD 2004)

This is what is so good about the internet. I was a fan of the 80s band Win and although I was an avid Melody Maker reader at the time, knew nothing of the fate of the creative force behind these 80s alternative pop stars. Although Win only released two albums, I have continued to listen to these since their release and not that long ago decided I should put the world-wide-web to some good use and see just what happened. And so a voyage began that opened up a whole host of new records for me to enjoy.

The history of the band Win is based in 80s cult-indie band The Fire Engines. When they split, Davey Henderson formed Win with a former Fire Engine and a group of other musicians. I believe they were fairly successful in their home country of Scotland, but never really did anything much in England. Their highest point of fame was having their single You've Got The Power as the music to the iconic 80s advert for McEwans lager - possibly the greatest advert of the decade, not just for the excellent imagery and music but it's potent politcal statement.

After just two albums and despite receiving critical acclaim, Win failed to make the waves that record companies demand and the band split-up. Until recently this was all I knew. Now I have discovered The Nectarince No.9.

This album takes us deep into Nectarine territory. It was the first Nectarine No.9 album that I bought and I'm glad I did. The album is full of quality pop songs that demonstrate how Davey has developed from his earlier years, but he still manages to throw in some great left-field lyrics and song themes. Reminiscent of Marc Bolan in places with his quivering vocals with lyrics that wouldn't go amiss on an early Brian Eno album. That said, the sound is 100% Henderson. He has his own style and I wouldn't want to put him a category.

I love Total Destruction is very well produced, something that is a marked improvement on the first Nectarine No.9 album. I've still got to make my way through all the albums inbetween which I have to say I am really looking forward to.

If you like imagintive, thoughtful and entertaining pop then you will find it not only here, but throughout Henderson's back-catalogue. If you haven't heard any of his material before, you are lucky as you have a so much entertainment ahead. A legendary songwriter who deserves to be known by far more people than he is.