Sing No Evil – Half Japanese

On 1984's Sing No Evil, Half Japanese was in their prime. The band's punk roots were mixed with free jazz influences, creating a rowdy indie rock classic. Jad Fair's bratty, youthful vocals intermingle with horns on the opening track, "Firecracker Firecracker." "Dearest Darling" is a gritty and energetic ode to a lost love. "Tell Me I'm Wrong" is a vibrant redefinition of jazz-rock fusion. The title track is a catchy, horn-laced instrumental, while "Rub Every Muscle" and "Acupuncture" serve as mid-'80s do-it-yourself anthems. The music is breezy on "I Have a Secret," while "House of Voodoo" is, not surprisingly, eerie and challenging. "Ball and Chain" closes the disc. It is highlighted by Jad Fair's hearty screams. David Fair performs percussion and backing vocals, while Mark Jickling performs guitar and John Dreyfuss and Richard LaBrie check in on saxophone and drums, respectively. Howard Wuelfing rounds out the group on bass guitar. No fewer than seven guest musicians (including Don Fleming) are featured on Sing No Evil. Originally released on the Iridescence Records label, Drag City re-released the album in 2000. ~ Stephen Cramer, All Music Guide