The definition of guilty pleasure (just look at that album cover!) but I can't deny that Colour by Numbers is a masterpiece of bubblegum pop (as long as we agree that a masterpiece of bubblegum pop probably still can't go beyond a 4 stars out of 5 rating). When I first listened to this record, I did find Boy George's whiny, 'soulful' vocals to be grating and didn't really give it a proper listen. But then "Karma Chameleon" was stuck in my head for long enough that I eventually decided it was worth giving it another chance. And indeed, pretty much every song here is memorable and catchy (in a good way), which satisfies the first (and maybe only) requirement of a great bubblegum record. Shockingly, they summon up some real soul as well on tracks like "Church of the Poison Mind" with great backing vocals from Helen Terry. Anyways, if you've heard "Karma Chameleon" and found it obnoxious, stay away. If you've heard "Karma Chameleon" and found yourself secretly enjoying it, then don't be afraid to pick up Colour by Numbers.
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