Sound of Vinyl

Originally released in November 1994 following an unprecedented 6 year hiatus, Gratuitous Sax & Senseless Violins marked a return to the commercial success that had alluded the band for much of the 80s. Delivering some of their highest chart positions in 15 years and the now fan favourite single, When Do I Get To Sing “My Way”.

Their matchless flair for the avant garde and contemporary experimental ever present, Gratuitous Sax & Senseless Violins presented another reinvention in sound and style so typical of Sparks’s uniquely extra-ordinary career.

A 1994 NME review called the record one of ‘their finest moments’. Q declared the album a ‘triumph’. ‘a precious box of jewels’ said Melody Maker. Surprise and delight for the new unashamedly European dancefloor sound full of ‘style and wit’ was evident.

Gratuitous Sax & Senseless Violins is now reissued, for the first time, as a deluxe edition to coincide with the 25th anniversary of the original release.

Compiled, curated and designed by Ron & Russell Mael.

All formats feature the original album remastered.

Expanded editions include b-sides, live tracks and remixes from the likes of Bernard Butler and Vince Clarke.

The release also features a further 12 unreleased demos and 5 unheard tracks from the never released Christi Haydon EP. Plus special sleeve notes by Ron and Russell Mael.