Gene Loves Jezebel 

Gene Loves Jezebel achieved international “pop star” status in the ‘80s with classic dance hits such as “Desire,” “Heartache” and “Motion Of Love,” to name a few. In 1990 came Kiss Of Life, a poignant album combining driving rock ‘n’ roll and heartfelt ballads. The single, “Jealous,” gained tremendous airplay, both on radio and in clubs, but visa problems prevented a supporting tour and the album never got the full recognition it deserved. This year marks the full-fledged, no-holds-barred return of Gene Loves Jezebel, now a tight four-piece unit.

Led by dynamic frontman Jay Aston, GLJ recently performed a couple of shows in New York City to test the waters for their album Heavenly Bodies which is slated for release in January. On Thursday, October 29th, they took the stage at club Tilt, giving the crowd a taste of the new material in addition to the standard favorites they were screaming for. Original band members Pete Rizzo (bass), James Stevenson (guitar), and Jay (guitar/vocals) were known for their flamboyant stage attire during the glam hey-dey of the 1980s. Still today both male and female concertgoers find themselves enthralled by their presence. However, the present day Jezebels can attribute their riveting persona to more than mere physical attraction. They, along with newest Jezebel, drummer Robert Adams, create an electricity that manifests itself in the excitement of the audience. 

Jay’s stage antic ran the gamut from lighthearted to suggestive to sensual, reflecting the mood of the music. The passionate classic “Suspicion” was the perfect vehicle for the frontman’s visual innuendoes. And the mastery of the other band members became increasingly evident as they continued to crank out their unique trademark sounds, undaunted by the playful prancing of their vocalist. 

One of the main elements of Gene Loves Jezebel’s special chemistry is the rapport Jay establishes with the audience. He reaches out physically (at one point he leaned into a girl in the front row and purred “You smell so good, just like the Velvet Underground”) and is a natural at enticing crowd participation in hits like “Desire” and “Jealous.” 

Anthemic rocker “20 Killer Hurts” and the always captivating ballad “Kiss Of Life” were sure to please, and it was apparent by the end of the set that Heavenly Bodies is no exception to the pleasure rule. The first single, “Josephina,” will move rapidly up the charts, I predict, with its winning combination of somber Rizzo bass, distinct Stevenson solos and traditional heartwrenching lyrics, compellingly presented by the moody frontman. “Voice In The Dark,” a hauntingly comforting tale of having someone unconditionally there for you, is another ‘Heavenly’ tune that will win the hearts of the masses. 

I could go on and on about this show and about Gene Loves Jezebel, but I don’t really need to. The music speaks for itself. Be sure to listen. And be sure to see them live in ’93 before you have to wait on line at the Garden. 

W/pic Glam slammin’ Gene Loves Jezebel rocked at Tilt for CMJ. Singer Jay Aston had us in his hands with snakey experto guitar from James Stephenson. 

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