China Crisis - Wishful Thinking

January 1984 saw another Scouse monopoly with seven of the UK top 20 hailing from Merseyside. Paul McCartney jostled with Frankie Goes to Hollywood for number 1, alongside  the classics  "Killing Moon" by the Bunnymen and "Love is A Beautiful Colour" from the Icicle Works.  A proud moment for the musical city.

At number 9 were China Crisis with the sublime "Wishful Thinking". Highlighting another trend, that apart from the Beatles and Roxy Music / Captain Beefheart influences, of electronic and fey pop, from OMD, Lotus Eaters and Flock of Seagulls.

China Crisis, emerged from Kirby, as a typical 80s synths new wave band, always comprising of Gary Daly and  Eddie Lundon. For their second album, "Working with Fire and Steel", they expanded their sound, moving away from electronica,  by adding a real drummer, bass and crucially an oboe player. Heralding the start of a brief but glorious age of smooth China Crisis classics.

I have never paid too much attention to the lyrics of "Wishful Thinking", but on inspection, it is an intriguing and emotive meeting between former lovers (Human League covered similar ground on "Louise"). The man suddenly suspects that her son may be his ("I see the likeness in his smile"), so he gently brooches the subject with the tearful mother ("Forgive me for asking").  

Normally Daly would sing the lead vocals, but on this occasion it is Eddie Lundon, and does a fine job. The keyboard backing is rich and attractive, but the highlight is a wonderful oboe part from Steve Levy. 1980s pop groups were eager to try different sounds, and an oboe also featured in the Dream Academy.

With their increasing confidence, they approached Walter Becker (from their heroes Steely Dan) to produce their third and best album Flaunt the Imperfection, spawning another two excellent singles "Black Man Ray" and "King in a Catholic Style". 

The hits may have dried up, but China Crisis are still touring today with Daly and Lundon in place. A fondly remembered but underrated band, with a mellow and laid-back vibe, typical of 1980s.

Hear Now - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oj20LKdg8-8

Hear Next -  Either " Working with Fire and Steel" or " Flaunt the Imperfection ".