1234 is the second studio album by Propaganda. Released in 1990, Michael Mertens was the only remaining member of the group from their previous album A Secret Wish, though original member Susanne Freytag made a guest appearance on two tracks, and the album includes some songs co-written by Ralf Dörper. New group members included Derek Forbes and Brian McGee, both formerly of Simple Minds and whom had both toured with the first incarnation of the band, and vocalist Betsi Miller. The album was produced by Ian Stanley and Chris Hughes, most notable for their work with Tears For Fears in the 1980s. Hughes and Miller would later marry.
Production and reception
The first single from the album, "Heaven Give Me Words", reached the UK Top 40 and also reached No. 22 on the U.S. Adult Contemporary chart. "Your Wildlife" reached No. 32 on the U.S. Dance Music/Club Play Singles chart. Both songs were co-written by Howard Jones.Heaven Give Me Words. Propaganda. AllMusicYour Wildlife. Propaganda. AllMusic Another single, "Only One Word" (which featured Pink Floyd guitarist David Gilmour), peaked at No. 71 in the UK.
The album itself peaked at No. 46 on the UK Album Chart.
The cover art is a close-up of part of the sculpture Unique Forms of Continuity in Space by Umberto Boccioni.
Track listing
Personnel
Propaganda: Betsi Miller – vocals Michael Mertens – keyboards, electronics Derek Forbes – bass guitar Ian Stanley – Fairlight synthesizer Chris Hughes – computer Brian McGee – drums
Supporting musicians: Neil Taylor, Andy Ross, David Gilmour – guitar Ross Cullum – rhythm guitar David Paton, Pino Palladino – bass guitar Jürgen Dahmen – keyboards Andy Richards, Blue Weaver – Fairlight synthesizer Simon Clark – Hammond organ, keyboards Greg Hawkes – synthesizer Mel Collins – soprano saxophone Alan Lee Kirkendale – trumpet Susanne Freytag – vocals ("Vicious Circle", "Ministry of Fear") Howard Jones, Tessa Niles – backing vocals
Notes
References