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Tall Stories (album)

by Johnny Hates Jazz

Released: June 11, 1991

Pop, synth-pop, sophisti-pop

musicOnOff editorial

Why This Album Matters

This album matters because its strongest editorial story is: Breakthrough.

The Album

"Tall Stories" represents the second studio album by Johnny Hates Jazz, released by Virgin in 1991. Serving as a follow-up to their successful debut "Turn Back the Clock" from 1988, this album underwent significant changes within the band. The album, while not achieving the same level of success as its predecessor, remains a testament to Johnny Hates Jazz's resilience and musical prowess during a challenging period in their career.

Inside the Recording

With the departure of frontman Clark Datchler, producer and songwriter Phil Thornalley stepped into the role of lead singer for "Tall Stories." However, on the brink of the album's release, Thornalley and keyboardist Calvin Hayes were involved in a serious car accident, dealing a blow to the band's momentum and promotional efforts.

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Explore the Album

Johnny Hates Jazz - Tall Stories (album)

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Then

Reception

Despite the talent involved and the contributions from notable musicians like XTC's Dave Gregory on lead guitar and Kasim Sulton of Utopia on backing vocals, "Tall Stories" failed to make an impact on the charts. This lack of commercial success, combined with the setbacks the band faced, led to their eventual dissolution.

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The Complete Album Story

The album, while not achieving the same level of success as its predecessor, remains a testament to Johnny Hates Jazz's resilience and musical prowess during a challenging period in their career.