A. More – Flying Doesn't Help

A. More – Flying Doesn't Help

Released in 1979, Flying Doesn't Help is a distinctive solo album from Anthony Moore, the experimental British musician, composer, and former member of the avant-garde group Slapp Happy. Blending art rock, experimental pop, new wave, and understated electronic textures, the album occupies an intriguing space between accessible songwriting and Moore's more unconventional musical background.

Moore's work had already crossed paths with the European avant-garde and experimental scenes before Flying Doesn't Help, and this album demonstrates his ability to bring those influences into concise, melodic songs. Rather than relying on conventional rock arrangements, Moore uses unusual structures, atmospheric instrumentation, and subtly disorientating production to give the record its individual character.

The album opens with "Judy Get Down" before moving through the quirky "Ready Ready", the sparse and reflective "Useless Moments," and "Lucia." "Caught Being In Love" closes the first side with another example of Moore's ability to combine unconventional ideas with a strong pop sensibility.

Side two begins with "Time Less Strange" and "Girl It's Your Time," followed by the darker "War." "Just Us" and "Twilight (Uxbridge Road)" complete the album, leaving the listener with a more atmospheric and introspective impression.

Flying Doesn't Help is an excellent example of the adventurous art-pop and experimental rock emerging in Britain around the end of the 1970s. Moore's distinctive songwriting makes the album particularly appealing to collectors interested in music that sits between avant-garde experimentation and melodic pop.

A strong recommendation for fans of Slapp Happy, Robert Wyatt, Brian Eno, The Residents, David Sylvian, and experimental British art rock, Flying Doesn't Help is an intriguing and often overlooked release for adventurous vinyl collectors.

Tracklist

Side A

1. Judy Get Down
2. Ready Ready
3. Useless Moments
4. Lucia
5. Caught Being In Love

Side B

1. Time Less Strange
2. Girl It's Your Time
3. War
4. Just Us
5. Twilight (Uxbridge Road)