Falco - Falco 3

Released in 1986

Falco (Johann Holzel) was an Austrian-born synth-pop artist that produced unique and catchy music throughout the 1980's. Although he caught the attention of American dance clubs with his moderately popular track Der Kommissar (which was later redone by the English band After The Fire) from his debut album, Einzelhaft, it wasn't until 1986 with his release of Falco 3 that the star became a true pop sensation overseas.

Rock Me Amadeus, a quirky yet appealing fusion of synth-pop and classical, was by far the musician's greatest hit, skyrocketing up the pop charts and receiving steady airplay on radios and MTV. Even to this day Rock Me Amadeus remains one of the most definitive 80's synth-pop pieces ever created.

Some of the album highlights are:

• Rock Me Amadeus – This is the ultimate guilty pleasure within the synth-pop realm. It's maddeningly addictive, creative and simply brilliant.
• Vienna Calling – Though not as well known as his former hit, Vienna Calling was a solid slice of pop ear candy that hit the Top 20 in the charts.
• Manner Des Westens (Any Kind of Land) – Certainly not one of his better-known tracks, but almost as powerfully entertaining as Rock Me Amadeus.

The fact Falco became a hit in the United States speaks volumes of his proficiency at creating ultra-appealing synth-pop, for his songs are spoken/sung in his native tongue rather than English – generally a decidedly unpopular choice for American audiences. Falco's two major hits alone are worth the price of admission, but the sheer quality and consistency prevalent throughout the entire album makes Falco 3 one of the 80's best synth-pop pleasures.

Rating: 9 stars

Track List Rock Me Amadeus America Tango The Night Munich Girls Jeanny Vienna Calling Manner des Westens (Any Kind of Land) Nothing Sweeter Than Arabia Macho, Macho It's All Over Now, Baby Blue

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