sparks

In the 1970's Russell and Ron Mael were responsible for some of the most quirky and unusual pop music of the time. An unlikely blend of almost vaudevillian theatrics with Brecht like bite to the lyrics and a stage personality of straight man and clown.
In the 1980's, were one of the first groups to redefine their music into a duo format that became popular with other groups in the decade. Having a cult following rather than a mainstream pop fan base, they influenced many bands and musicians in those and following decades (to name a few, Kurt Cobain, Franz Ferdinand, Arcade Fire, Sonic Youth, Ramones, Bjork, Def Leppard etc).

So in 2011, they surprisingly show up on an arts channel that produced a series of live performances in the recording studio called In 'The Basement'.
After 4 decades and more of working together the Mael brothers proved they had lost nothing in the way of inventive song writing.
Here they play their song "Strange Animal". A bizzarre mix of early 20th century cabaret, opera and (steam) punk. Atmospheric, full of invention, intelligence and superbly played.
It will also remain largely unnoticed by a pop world that has no interest in originality. Long may the Mael brothers continue.