ALBUM: Nite City (self-titled 1977)
MVC Rating: 3.5/$$$
This is better than I thought. I bought this brand new in Athens, Ga., at about 17 or 18. I heard the song ‘Summer Eyes” on the radio and then trained my ears on the DJ’s voice as he said ‘New one from Nite City, which features on keyboards Ray Manzarak of the legendary Doors.
I like ‘Summer Eyes” still, Nite City and ‘Love Will Make You Mellow.’
I’m not sure if that’s what the radio guy said or not. But it’s pretty much what happened. I’d say half of my inclinations to buy something new came from either radio– which should be no surprise — or hearing a new one at the record store and asking who was on the turntable. This usually endeared me to most record store clerks except the orneriest ones.
“Hey man, what’s that playing,” I’d ask.
“Little band called Kid Creole and the Coconuts,” he’d say back. “You might also check out Dr. Buzzards Savannah Dance Band.”
“Cool, thanks,” I said.
I do have this one and Kid Creole and Dr. Buzzard thank you very much. Several great albums from those guys.
So how about Nite City? Doors collectors definitely. Like I said it was better than I remembered, and Summer Eyes could have been a hit. But overall this slice of 70s rock had lyrics that were too clilche’. Jim Morrison was slinging W.B. Yeats next to some of these lyrics:
When i walk in your fantasy/ Do I look like reality?
When I start talking like a Bantam cock/does your heart start beating rock rock rock.
From Allmusic.com: Manzarek’s keyboard work is as intelligent as ever, while guitarist Paul Warren and bassist Nigel Harrison (later of Blondie) play with gusto throughout. The weak link is Noah James, a decent vocalist who strains far too hard for a dash of the late Morrison’s lyrical abilities.
Sounds like we are on the same page.