The Bonzo Dog Band - Keynsham (2007 Remaster) (1969)

The delightfully clever humor of the Bonzo Dog Band's prior releases almost totally eludes the group on this record. Songs here still parody familiar styles, but generally do so in a leaden and unengaging manner. A number of the selections here burlesque the late Beatles, Buffalo Springfield, and similar bands (see the songs "You Done My Brain In," "Quiet Talks and Summer Walks," "The Bride Stripped Bare [By the Bachelors]," and "What Do You Do?" for examples). "We Were Wrong" is derived from 1950s doo wop (without the full vocal harmony to pull it off), "Mr. Slaters' Parrot" shows clear Spike Jones influences, "Sport (The Odd Boy)" is a faux-baroque period selection, and "Look at Me, I'm Wonderful" lampoons lounge singers. Unfortunately, a number of these selections are poorly paced; certain songs, such as "Busted" and "Mr. Slaters' Parrot," are either too long or too repetitive to maintain listener interest. Lyrics and performances are bland and pedestrian by past group standards, and a noticeable lack of enthusiasm permeates this disc. This weak release is only recommended to completists.~David Cleary