The Belle Stars: A Reissue of an Iconic 80s Pop-Ska Fusion Band
The Belle Stars, an all-girl band that emerged from the two-tone/ska revival scene in the early 1980s, has been reimagined through a new 3CD, 7-inch-sized box set by Edsel Records. This compilation, titled simply 'The Belle Stars', offers a comprehensive look at the band's discography, including their self-titled debut album, non-LP singles, and remixes. The set is a testament to the band's unique sound, which blended pop and ska influences, and their ability to create catchy, memorable songs.
The Belle Stars' story begins with the dissolution of The Bodysnatchers, a two-tone/ska revival band, when five of its members decided to venture into a new musical direction. Guitarists Stella Barker and Sarah-Jane Owen, alto saxophonist Miranda Joyce, keyboardist Penny Leyton, and drummer Judy Parsons joined forces with bassist Lesley Shone and lead singer Jennie Matthias. Their sound, a fusion of pop and ska, caught the attention of Stiff Records, who signed them in early 1981. The band's early singles, produced by Clive Langer and Alan Winstanley, failed to chart, but their unique sound persisted.
The turning point for The Belle Stars came with their cover of The Dixie Cups' 'Iko Iko', which gave them their top-forty debut. They followed this with a revival of Shirley Ellis' 'The Clapping Song' and a rendition of the Inez and Charlie Foxx oldie 'Mockingbird'. However, it was their self-written track 'Sign of the Times', produced by Peter Collins, that truly broke them through. 'Sign of the Times' reached the UK Singles Chart's top three and the US Hot 100, as well as top-ten placements in several other countries. The dance remix of the song also charted in the US, further solidifying their success.
The new Edsel release showcases the band's evolution, from their early singles to their breakthrough hits. It includes the original studio LP, mastered by Phil Kinrade, along with eighteen non-LP sides, all nine 12-inch remixes, and two remixes of 'Iko Iko'. The set also features 'Live Signs, Live Times', a concert recorded at the Birmingham Odeon in 1983, and three songs produced by Anne Dudley for an abortive second album. The packaging, in a seven-inch format, includes a ten-page booklet with photos, credits, and a brief note, making it a must-have for fans of The Belle Stars and 80s pop-ska fusion.
In my opinion, this reissue is a testament to the enduring appeal of The Belle Stars' music. Their ability to blend pop and ska, create catchy melodies, and write memorable lyrics is what sets them apart. The band's influence on the 80s music scene, particularly in the UK, is undeniable, and this compilation serves as a reminder of their impact. Personally, I think it's a shame that the group had already broken up when they scored their first US smash hit, 'Iko Iko', but it only adds to the allure of their music. The Belle Stars' legacy is one of innovation and fun, and this box set is a celebration of their unique sound and lasting impact on pop music.
