I literally just got off the phone with Nick Rhodes, keyboardist for Duran Duran.  The first megaband to come out of the music video era have an upcoming show at Orlando's UCF Arena, May 18, in promotion of their latest album, the Timabaland produced Red Carpet Massacre.  Yeah, that Timbaland. . . of Timberlake and Nelly Furtado fame. 

After listening to the LP in research for the interview, I have to admit I was very impressed with the mix.  I love DD's original MTV halcyon days catalog--they remain quintessential pop New Romantic perfection--but this beat driven material really does translate well for the group.  (I wonder when Timabaland will wear out his welcome and his deft hands in the recording studio will become staid?  He's producing everything these days.)

One track that stood out is the obvious single "Falling Down."  The accompanying video did not make it stateside but recieved a UK release.  Why, I haven't the foggiest.  These guys practically invented the music video.  They should be given the benefit of the doubt whenever they release a clip, given their accomplishments, and this is the best work yet.  Nick told me that the public missteps of celebrities like Britney and Kate Moss were influences for the song and video, but I love the fact that the DD are the rehab physicians dispensing treatment, and redemption, to their patients, a collection of strung out models. 

And stay for the very end.  I think you'll spot a "notorious" DD track that makes a perfect footnote to the theme of "Falling Down." 

Enjoy and catch my interview with Rhodes in our next issue, out May 5.