80’s rockers The Psychedelic Furs
NEWTON — New wave 80's Rockers The Psychedelic Furs will perform at the Newton Theatre on Thursday, April 10.
The Psychedelic Furs, led by vocalist and songwriter Richard Butler, and his bass-wielding brother Tim, won over fans and critics alike by combining poetic lyrics, innovative rhythms and melodies driven by an aggressive, punk desperation.
The band scored major hits with "Love My Way," "Pretty In Pink," "Heaven," "The Ghost In You" and "Heartbreak Beat" and released seven studio albums, spawning several compilations, a boxed set, and a live concert DVD.
The Furs debut, a self-titled album from 1980, quickly established the band at radio in Europe and was a top 20 hit in the United Kingdom. The album also found success in Germany, Italy, France, Spain, New Zealand and Australia.
The Furs found success in the U.S. with their next release, 1981's "Talk Talk Talk," which saw the band making its debut on the US album charts. In the UK, the album charted the original version of "Pretty in Pink," which served as inspiration for the 1986 John Hughes film of the same name, and was re-recorded for the film’s platinum-selling soundtrack.
In 1982, the Furs recorded "Forever Now," with producer Todd Rundgren in Woodstock, N.Y. This album included hit "Love My Way." The Furs' 1984 release "Mirror Moves" featured the songs "Heaven" and smash hit "The Ghost in You."
By the mid-80s, the band had become a staple on both U.S. college and modern rock radio stations. Simultaneously, they were experiencing consistent mainstream success, placing several singles in the pop charts on both sides of the Atlantic.
Their album "Midnight to Midnight," featured the single "Heartbreak Beat," which became the Psychedelic Furs biggest Top 40 hit. The album also featured drummer Paul Garisto and sax player Mars Williams, both of whom continue to tour with the band.
The band went on extended hiatus in the early 1990s. After spending most of the decade apart, the Butlers reignited The Psychedelic Furs in 2000, and released a live album "Beautiful Chaos: Greatest Hits Live." Since then, lead singer Richard Butler has released an eponymous solo album produced by Jon Carin, and has hinted at the possibility of a new Psychedelic Furs album.
Currently, the band continues to tour around the world. The Psychedelic Furs touring lineup remains Richard Butler (vocals), Tim Butler (bass), Rich Good (guitar), Mars Williams (saxophone), Amanda Kramer (keyboards), and Paul Garisto (drums).
Tickets for the Psychedelic Furs are $44 for premium seating, $39 for orchestra and $34 for balcony. Purchase tickets by visiting www.thenewtontheatre.com or contact the box office at 973-383-3700.
The historic Newton Theatre, located at 234 Spring Street in Newton, N.J.