Originally released to a fanbase and music press unprepared for the band to evolve from the punk fury of “Crossing The Red Sea”, “Cast Of Thousands” by The Adverts is now considered a lost classic of the era. TV Smith's astute, observational lyrics and keen musical instincts allowed his songwriting to grow and go in unexpected directions.
The original thumping was replaced by dynamic and driving drums, acoustic guitars and sensitive solos emerged, and Tim Cross came in to add keyboards and complete the overall sound. The only constant was the pounding thump of Gaye Advertiss bass. Surprise producer Tom Newman (Mike Oldfield “Tubular Bells”) encouraged the band to experiment and get creative with both songwriting and recording techniques. On one song they struggled with recording a lit match, while on another they did a single take of a vocal over a microphone hung in the bathroom. Huge choruses were meticulously built up over multiple tracks, while the sound of a rat running through the echo chamber was captured forever. The result wrapped some of TV's best songs in strange and inventive sounds that complemented his anti-pop sensibilities and rock'n'roll heart. They didn't know it at the time, but the band was falling apart. Tensions soon went so far that replacements were hired for the last tour. The punk fans left them in droves.
Critics slated the album's singles. Their record label had moved on to the next big thing. The feeling of having reached a creative peak made the fall even harder. Time was kind, however, and fans who discovered punk after the first wave could hear “Cast” for what it is - a brilliant and biting collection of rock'n'roll. Still full of stomp and momentum, even when stripped down on “My Place” or the anthemic wave of “Television's Over”, with the TV hook factory on full display on the anti-love song “Love Songs”, and the band closing the album with the creeping ballad “I Will Walk You Home”; The Adverts had evolved from a great punk rock band to a great rock band.
1: Cast Of Thousands
2: The Adverts
3: My Place
4: Male Assault
5: Television's Over
6: Fate Of Criminals
7: Love Songs
8: I Surrender
9: I Looked At The Sun
10: I Will Walk You Home
