FM

Exploring FM's "City Of Fear"

Released in 1980, "City Of Fear" is the fourth studio album by the Canadian band FM. This album marks a significant evolution in their sound, showcasing a blend of electronic rock, prog rock, and synth-pop. The band, hailing from Toronto, Ontario, was known for its futuristic approach to music and its innovative use of synthesizers.

Production and Sound

The album was produced by Larry Fast, a notable figure in electronic music known for his work with Synergy and Peter Gabriel. Fast's influence is evident throughout the album, which features a wide array of synthesizers, including the Sequential Circuits Prophet-5 and various Moog models. The instrumentation is rich, with Cameron Hawkins handling lead vocals and synthesizers, while Ben Mink adds depth with his electric and acoustic violins. Martin Deller rounds out the lineup with his dynamic drumming and percussion, utilizing both acoustic and electronic elements.

"City Of Fear" includes ten tracks that explore dystopian themes and showcase the band's lyrical sophistication. The opening track, "Krakow," introduces listeners to the album's Eastern European influences. Following this are tracks like "Power" and "Truth Or Consequences," which maintain the energetic pulse of the album. The title track, "City Of Fear," is a chilling centerpiece, while "Surface To Air" serves as an instrumental powerhouse that highlights the band's technical prowess.

Visual Presentation

The album cover features striking neon lighting captured by Eric Staller, a famous light artist known for his unique light painting photography. The inner sleeve includes photographs of the band taken by a young Bob Rock, who would later gain fame as a producer for several major acts. This visual aspect complements the album's thematic elements and futuristic sound.

Recording Locations

Recording for "City Of Fear" took place across multiple studios, including Soundstage and Phase One Studios in Toronto, as well as the House of Music in West Orange, New Jersey. The mastering was handled by Bob Ludwig at Masterdisk in New York, ensuring high-quality sound production.

FM's "City Of Fear" was released under Passport Records, catalog number PB 2004, and features a variety of synthesizers and instruments integral to its sound.