"Supernova" was released on 22nd July 1991, again it was available 4 formats 7", 12", CD Single and Cassette Single (I have actually seen the cassette for sale a few times.....memo to self.....must buy it one day). Another Milton/ Bassett joint effort that was totally different from the previous single. In fact that is something I noticed with all of "Five Thirtys" singles, they could almost be made by different bands. This almost sounds disastrous, as though the album would sound disjointed. But it didn't, it added to the albums charm. When I first heard "Supernova" I was, dare I say it, disappointed. I loved the wah-wah funk and groovy bass of the last single and probably wanted a "13th Disciple Part 2". It sounded a lot more, how can I put it, poppier than I expected.
A few listens in however and the chorus had reeled me in. Altogether now...."You're a Supernova, it's too bad that you've gone. You're a Supernova, You can shine, but can you carry on?" Classic! The B-side was "Still Life", a tune that slowly burned it's way into your skull and could have been a definite contender the album. It reminds me of a softer bastard cousin to "Hate Male", catchier and less vitriolic (have I used that word right, I didn't get my CSE in English, bet you're all really surprised). Only three tracks on the 12" and CD (for the first and last time with "Five Thirty") this time round.
The bonus track was "Somethings Got to Give". This track first appeared on the compilation "Happy Daze 2", but this was a re-worked version. I think I prefer the "happy Daze 2" version to be honest. The opening "screeching horses" guitar intro was better than the B-side and I thought the vocals sounded better and stronger, still it all made up for another cracking release by "Five Thirty".
"Supernova" boasted yet another cool cover. I remember there being some confusion as to whose face graced the cover. A "Five Thirty" newsletter confirmed it was Syd Barrett of early Pink Floyd fame and not glam god Marc Bolan. Just like it's predecessors "Abstain" and "Air Conditioned Nightmare" (but not "13th Disciple" for some reason) the 12" record came with additional artwork. This time a bright pink "5:30" logo on one side and the lyrics to "Supernova" on the other. It is a shame that the artwork did not include the lyrics for the other B-sides. Maybe I will sit down and write them down for you one day......
While compiling this blog I have included all the scans, good and bad, that I have got (and all of those donated to me-thanks guys).
Most reviews are quite flattering but not all of the reviewers felt the same. Just where does the "chunky-knit pop" line come from in this review?
Oh.... I see...sorry about that Tara. Aran jumpers never looked so good....honest. Altogether now "You're a Superknitter...." or what about "Welcome to the Aran Conditioned Nightmare....". What about "Coming up for Knitwear"? I will leave it there for now. If The Sun newspaper ever need a headline writer they know where to come.....A few live reviews from around the time "Supernova" was released:
More treats! I have raided me scrapbook again. Below are another selection of reviews, adverts and newsletters from the "Supernova" period (PS Anybody know if the Dave Treasure as titled in "The Dave Treasure Newsletter" is the Dave Treasure who played bass on "Once Around the Sun?). Click the piccies to make them larger:
I prefer the "happy daze 2" version too.
ReplyDeleteThanks mate for all these Five Thirty materials you've posted here. They were an amazing band and should be heard by more and more people. And I wish there were more comments here on your blog and the band could get more recognition at least these days... Thanks very very much!
ReplyDeleteI saw Five Thirty (I think it was in 1990/91) I can only recall them singing a song called Supernova and Catcher in the Rye and they were BRILLIANT. I didnt know anything about them and I thought they were just an unknown band supporting whoever I had gone to see (funny how I cant remember THE band but I remember Five Thirty) anyway Ive mentioned them on occasions over the years and no one had heard of them, but now with the internet Ive at last been able to watch them again on You Tube and glad to have found Tara Milton on My Space. Why they werent a huge band I will never know as they were fantastic. Glad to have found your blog with some information about them X
ReplyDeleteI went to all the Marquee gigs and met the band in a drunken haze at one of them gigs. Mega band still and a damn crying shame they split, 'Bed' is still in my top 10 all great albums of all time - reform you buggers and get the fame you deserved!!!
ReplyDelete