Human League

Octopus

Consistent and enjoyable

Review Score:

(6/10)
Octopus, released in 1995, is a good and energetic disc from the Human League. Altogether, there are nine tracks--one being an enjoyable instrumental ("John Cleese; Is He Funny?"). All of the material is in a synth-pop musical direction. I don't hear any guitar work throughout the album. I find every one of the cuts to be worthy. Overall, the musicianship is solid, the songwriting is good, and the sound quality is dynamic, polished, and crisp. I like Philip Oakey's vocal delivery--it's clear, unique, and suave. Joanne Catherall and Susan Ann Sulley also do well with the vocal duties. My favorite songs are "Filling Up with Heaven," "Never Again," and "These Are the Days." The uplifting, well-written "Filling Up with Heaven," one of my favorite compositions from the Human League (and in general), is a melody-filled, engaging piece that features beautiful, lush harmony vocals and sunny, sparkly keyboard playing. The notable, pleasing ballad "Never Again" displays tight vocals from Oakey, soaring keyboard textures, and a smooth, attractive chorus. The lively, futuristic-flavored "These Are the Days" is a catchy and atmospheric tune that exhibits interesting-sounding keyboard colors. Examples of other tracks that I like are "John Cleese; Is He Funny?" and "Words." "Words," almost six minutes long, is a brooding, mellow-moving, ambient song; even though it takes its time, it isn't boring. The gratifying and bouncy instrumental "John Cleese; Is He Funny?" sports appealing, smeary keyboard soundscapes. The CD booklet contains the song lyrics--I like the lyrics to "These Are the Days" and "House full of Nothing"--and an individual illustration of each member of the group. The disc is just over 45 minutes in length. I think that this release from the Human League is pleasurable.

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