Is her search for comfort in technology successful or futile? The song’s final lyrics-”Tune in tonight/Try to think of nothing”-leave it up to the listener, but no matter how he or she interprets it, it’s evident that the contrast between the song’s peppy, electronic atmosphere and its bittersweet lyrics makes the story more interesting.Īnother track that demonstrates Dolby’s aptness for combing cutting-edge musical technology with songwriting skills is “Commercial Breakup.” Powered by an infectious bass line and featuring a wild carnival ride of a synth solo, it manages to include every ingredient in the recipe for a great song without seeming even vaguely formulaic. As Dolby entertains us with an assortment of sprightly technological noises, we’re presented with the tale of Caroline, a woman who is sitting in her car and listening to the radio while wondering whether or not her date has stood her up. One song that uses the instrument in a particularly fun way is “Radio Silence,” which is just as oddly cinematic as “She Blinded Me With Science,” but more profound. Always complementing the lyrical content of Dolby’s songs rather than serving as a flashy substitute for deeper meaning, Dolby’s synths shine bright on buoyant tracks and pensive tracks alike. Much of its futuristic vibe comes from its liberal, creative use of synthesizers-a choice that was quite daring at the time of the album’s release. The Golden Age Of Wireless is notable for the way it instantly brings the listener into a world that feels like a sci-fi comic book at some points and like a dystopian drama at others. Rather, it’s an innovative, often thought-provoking new wave exploration of topics like technology and history-one that still holds up 35 years later. The Golden Age Of Wireless isn’t a novelty record if you haven’t heard it yet, don’t expect to hear Dolby singing about a different school subject on each track.
until a revised edition with “She Blinded Me With Science” (which was originally from a separate EP) hit shelves. In the early ’80s, he released a stellar album called The Golden Age Of Wireless -a record that did relatively well in his native U.K., but failed to gain momentum in the U.S. Since “She Blinded Me With Science” has become his legacy, some might be surprised to learn that Dolby wasn’t just a gimmick. Billboard Hot 100 and cementing itself into pop culture for years to come. The American public appreciated its funky atmosphere and self-aware humor, and it ended up reaching #5 on the U.S.
THOMAS DOLBY RADIO SILENCE TV
With guest vocals from British scientist and TV personality Magnus Pyke, lyrics that name-checked biology and geometry, and the occasional shout of “Science!”, the song was clearly quirky-but not too quirky for success. Interspersed with snippets of dialogue that suggest a story about a scatterbrained scholar falling in love, the song almost seems like it was penned for a movie-and that’s because it kind of was.Īlthough most of the time, music videos are produced to promote a single, “She Blinded Me With Science” was written because Dolby wanted an excuse to make a cool short film about a mad scientist.
If you’re American and the name “Thomas Dolby” rings a bell for you, it’s probably due to 1982’s “She Blinded Me With Science,” a single that has been referred to as one of the best “one-hit wonders” of all time.
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