Looking up it's a silver screen
And I don't know what it is I've seen
I only know that it made me cry
Some connection from another time
I lost control and I lost my mind
I only know that it turned me round
But it's alright now
It's alright now
It's just a sad film
A sad film
A sad film crossed my mind
I saw the names and the faces change
Like moving targets out of range
I only know that it changed my mind
Then other forces were stepping in
Reminding me of way back when
I only know that it changed my mind
But it's alright now
It's alright now
It's just a sad film
A sad film
A sad film crossed my mind
It's alright now
It's alright now
It's just a sad film
A sad film
A sad film crossed my mind
It's alright now
It's alright now
It's just a sad film
A sad film
A sad film crossed my mind
It's alright now
It's alright now
It's just a sad film
A sad film
A sad film crossed my mind
Possibly most peoples' introduction to the world of New Musik B sides is 'Sad Films' which rode shotgun to 'Living by Numbers' on the 7". This is one of NM's more conventional tracks. Standard-ish pallet of sounds, formulaic verse/chorus arrangement, a fairly simplistic structure. On paper it may sound a bit unexciting but, true to form, New Musik present another choice cut of pop music. The strumming guitars, the multilayered vocals, just enough synth electronics, and an infectious hook all combine to produce an essential piece of the jigsaw.
(Graham G)
Although not one of my favourite tracks, I don't think it's the worst they did either. I suspect this is one of the band's earlier tracks, as I would say the sound is just a little more 1979 than 1980. But because it's one of the most conventional NM tracks there are fewer of my favourite Mansfield magic touches here to behold.
It kicks off with an unusually abrupt vocal - no intro, which is unusual. Quite a 'band' sound to it with the electric guitar, drums etc: rock elements. For me those nice repeated piano chimes at the 0:42 mark (and thereafter) set with the rising/falling bass are my favourite feature, providing that 'yearning' feel.
The lyrics are (for once) quite simplistic, describing Tony's interest of film. The track approaches its subject in a similar way as he would write about his love of playing guitars on the track of that name.
Considering the sadness / melancholy which is often a characteristic of New Musik, is it likely that the emotions of these "Sad Films" are one of Tony's musical inspirations?
83/100
(Richard M)
I agree that this one must have been an earlier tune, probably like under attack and and. Not my favourite b-side, but if this is the worst it gets then we're onto a winner from the start. The piano stabs are my favourite bit.
(Rich E)
I actually rate Sad Films as one of my favourite B sides! (I'm not just courting controversy here, honest) I think, though, what you can definitely hear are elements of Nick Straker in it.
(David L)