The Mumps

[firefall]

Got recently the very fresh compilation of Mumps.Excellent stuff,very very similar to Kimono era Sparks,with theatrical vocals,funny-kitsch lyrics and catchy pop sensibility.I'm so amazed by them and especially the great underrated Lance Loud.A real treasure for 70s NY scene along with the Fast.Anyone have listened to them?

[O]

Yes, Mumps are GREAT. Also check out Kristian Hoffman's later band the Swinging Madisons (they released one 12" EP only).
The FAST were fantastic too. I guess you might have the Milk'n'Cookies re-issue, if not that's also recommended.

...and of course if the Mumps hadn't existed there'd be no Student Teachers. Their keyboard player Bill was the president of the Mumps fanclub.


http://www.thestudentteachers.com

[WolverineSyr]

Here's a nice website bout Lance Loud:
http://www.pbs.org/lanceloud/

I saw him a few years ago, still sharp & funny but it was sadly clear that his health was failing. I wasn't aware that he died.

[profpike]

Yeah-isn't it something? Lance was almost the first "reality TV" star. America fell in love with this odd, gay son of a dysfunctional Amercian Family and he parlayed it into a career.

Not that I'm saying that Lance had nothing on his on to go for. I like what I've heard of the mumps and I've read some of his writing. But, in a way, would Lance Loud have happened without the TV show?

www.blogomonster.com/profpike

[firefall]

Yes,it seems that Sparks clones in late 70s, were a lot-Fast,Milk n' Cookies,Mumps,Gleaming Spires,Quick.All great bands,but Mumps had the charisma of the talented Kristian Hoffman, and his trashy garage and mainstream pop roots-in some parts Mumps mimicked the extravaganza style of Abba-which built their individuality in new wave.I also like Hoffman's personal albums.Thanks O for the information about The Swinging Madisons.