Sparks’s second album and the last with the original LA-based backing band for the Mael brothers built on the wry, sharp approaches of their debut to create an even more distinct set of songs that stood out from the realms of boogie-rock stodge and Laurel Canyon musings surrounding them. The outrageous “Girl From Germany” is another album opening standout, Ron’s piano and Russell’s singing in full effect, but the hilarious “Whippings and Apologies” and the melodramatic “Moon Over Kentucky” are right up there.

– Ned Raggett