T’Pau - Bridge of Spies (Remastered - Expanded Edition)

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T-Pau to that!!!

T’Pau, one the 80's power ballad masters have re-released a deluxe version of their debut album ‘Bridge of Spies’ into a new box set. Not content with just giving us the same album again this is a 2x CD and 1x DVD version with some added bonus material. It was the album that spawned the majority of their commercial success with hits such as ‘China in your Hand’ and ‘Heart and Soul’.

Now being a bit of a cynic but ‘best of’ and re-releases never fill me with much enthusiasm and they always seem to be (coincidentally I am sure) released not too much before Christmas. However, my skepticism was in this case brushed aside quite quickly.

Radio 2 and commercial radio is full on songs of the 80’s and I am sure T’Pau get a regular airing but you realise that is because they make songs that stand the test of time. I was surprised that is didn’t sound too dated and a few of the songs could have jostled for position on the recent charts.

Though I think the ‘Heart and Soul (Dub Mix)’ would struggle to convince me it wasn’t a product of thirty years ago but that is just that genre having moved on too. Having said that T’Pau are still releasing new material themselves.

While it is what makes it the ‘Deluxe’ version I would question the need to hear or see five different version of ‘China in your Hand’ across one piece of material, none of which are overly different to be honest. But this was a good listen, Pop not pretending to be anything else, for lover of 80’s Pop who want to get out the shoulder pads and big hair it is perfect. 

Also for those that want to relive the days of their youth. Back to my point about the timing of the record, yes it would be a great present to put under the tree for mum or your auntie, but take a listen yourself too as this was a good album that instantly cemented their bands place in musical history.  

Review by Jon Cooper 

Check Out! the Video for 'Heart and Soul' Below...