Classic Album Review: The Tubes-"Outside Inside"

Review by Alan Scott Plotkin

This brilliant 1983 release follows up The Tubes 1981 successful "The Completion Backward Principle," in smashing style. This record was a big favorite of mine — I played it to death...then when the vinyl was so worn that it was un-listenable I put it to bed and forgot about it. For more than a decade. About a year ago-I heard "She's A Beauty" on the radio and thought — "Man, I have to have this on CD." So I tried to buy it. No dice. No one had it. No where, no way, no mas. While hanging out with DJ Billy Brown and Russell of Hollywood DJ's, I had mentioned my failure in locating the CD. Russell said "I'll bet you I can find it on eBay!" And a year later (courtesy of Beats Go Round Records, a British import) — it's in my hands and playing at 120db in my control room.

Unbelievable...this record not only stands the test of time— it gets better...EVERY TIME you listen to it.

This imaginative and captivating album was produced by David Foster (Just imagine ANY artist worth producing and he's produced them!), and he leaves no stone unturned. He is relentless in his use of sonic-color and took no chances for anything less than perfection by having Humberto Gatica, Greg Ladany, George Massenburg and company engineer and mix.

The record opens up with the huge Radio success, "She's a Beauty," and doesn't let up for a moment. It was rumored that every track on this album was a parody (Zappa/Toto/Asia, Earth, Wind & Fire, etc.) you name it — the Tubes' did it, and beat them all at their own game. But don't let these tracks fool you — there is enough "Original Inspiration" to go around. "No Not Again" has a catchy hook, perfectly crafted backing vocals and dynamic changes that certainly captivate the listener. Give a good listen to track 6,"Wild Women Of Wongo." It's a "Funk-Crazed Killer" with some pretty bizarre twists that will leave any slap-happy bass freaks running for their axes. Track 9, "Drums," has an energy that drives and hypnotizes at the same time. I can only imagine the fun they had recording this — the fun literally pours through the speakers! Remember when music was fun?

I could rant all day about this album — it's perfect.

This CD is a must-have! Don't let the hassle of acquiring it stop you from owning it. It rocks from beginning to end.