I hold in my hands three letters

Ah yes. Obscure b-side lyric references. The title of this entry is a line from "Alphabet Soup", the b-side of ABC's debut, UK single, "Tears Are Not Enough". That single launched the landmark album, "The Lexicon Of Love", and spawned three further hits - "The Look Of Love", "Poison Arrow" and "All Of My Heart". 

Only two of the four singles became hits in the US. But they spearheaded the then fledgling music video channel, MTV. Thus, a generation of image obsessed youths were unleashed on an unsuspecting public in the early 80s. Yours truly, was one of them.

Now, as it always happens, the 20 year cycle of nostalgia rears its ugly head. "The Lexicon Of Love" was released 27 years ago. Can you feel me cringing from there? Even so, it's still a stunning example of pop music at its best.

Tonight, I will get to experience the luxury, glamour and sophistication of "The Lexicon Of Love" in a live setting at the Royal Albert Hall. Yes, folks! The Rewind is in London for this special occasion. 

I flew into London this morning on the red eye. I'm super jet lagged but that isn't going to stop me from seeing Martin Fry and co. put on one helluva show.

ABC are going to perform the entire album from beginning to end with the BBC Concert Orchestra under the direction of Anne Dudley. Anne is not only an original member of the Art Of Noise, she also wrote all the original string arrangements for "The Lexicon Of Love" way back when vinyl was still the audio configuration for every nation.
 

And there is no better venue for this special event than the Royal Albert Hall. Let's take another peek at its magnificent architecture and interior.





I hear that collective gasp. Doesn't the RAH just SCREAM super bad, poshy posh, red velvety amazement? If you're going to relive the 80s, you've got to do it right!

Now, I'm going to pop down the pub for a pint, have a bit of a chinwag with the locals, and then take the tube over to the concert. Stay tuned for reports from the show. This week, there just might be more 80s related stuff than you can shake a glow stick at.