Monday, May 5, 2008

The Hitmen - Aim for the Feet

From way back in 1980, here are the first released recordings of Ben Watkins, as far as I know, as the lead singer and secondary guitarist of The Hitmen (not the Australian band). This first album, Aim for the Feet, was released on Urgent Records, a division of Columbia (in the U.S., at least, where my copy of the album comes from). Let's first take a look at the promo sheet for the album (click image for full size and readable text):

Sounds great, doesn't it? Who wouldn't want to listen to an album produced by Rocky Burnett's producer? They needn't have worried about being buried in platinum: unfortunately it's rather generic-sounding New Wave, and barely New Wave at that. There are a few hummable tunes, but overall it's pretty ho-hum. Still, it's essential listening for the Ben Watkins completist. Get it here or here. The second Hitmen album, coming soon, is a great improvement.

6 comments:

Anonymous said...

Oh my god, thanx for this treat!!! Can't wait for "Torn Together" which is far superior. Thanx in advance for that one. You are a saviour as I've been looking for these LP's for years.

Fantod said...

Wow, I think that's the first time I've been called a saviour! You're quite welcome. Torn Together will be coming along shortly.

Anonymous said...

Well, you have now been called "saviour" again. I have this vinyl, but no turntable; and my LP-to-cassette transfer is getting rather rickety.

I have many fabulous memories connected to this release -- especially one of watching my then-infant daughter (who's now 26!) delightedly bouncing in her highchair to the Hitmen. Stray Cats got her all wound up, too.

"Thank you" isn't strong enough!

Fantod said...

You are welcome too! Funny how music is such a powerful aid to memory-- my record collection is (was, rather) just as good as a diary.

Unknown said...

"She's All Mine" was the only cut I liked from this LP a friend of mine bought me from a "cutout" bin.

Anonymous said...

I always liked them! Thanks.