Like a phoenix, the group originally known as Jefferson Airplane seemed to rise from the ashes every decade through the 80s, reinventing their sound each time. The 60s saw Jefferson Airplane weaving their psychedelic sound tapestries, while the 70s saw Grace Slick and Paul Kantner forming Jefferson Starship as they set their course for rock music. Upon the departure of Kantner, the 80s saw Slick and Mickey Thomas drop the “Jefferson” from the name and Starship rose to stardom with their pop-rock tunes.
Knee Deep in the Hoopla marked a pivotal moment in the career of the American rock band Starship. Released in 1985, this album represents a significant departure from the band’s earlier work as Jefferson Starship and serves as a reflection of the changing musical landscape of the mid-1980s. While it received mixed critical reviews at the time, it left an indelible mark on pop music and is remembered for its catchy hooks, radio-friendly tunes, and the somewhat obnoxious hit single “We Built This City.” In celebration of Rhino Records’ 45th Anniversary, Rhino is reissuing classic titles from their catalog on “Rhino Red” vinyl. Each reissue includes a bonus 45” with two selections from the record and all titles were pressed at Third Man Records. The 45” includes the songs “We Built This City” b/w “Private Room.”
One of the standout features of Knee Deep in the Hoopla is its infectious energy. The album kicks off with “We Built This City,” which remains one of the most recognizable and memorable songs of the 1980s. With its pulsating synth beats, memorable chorus, and iconic lyrics, it’s a quintessential anthem of the era. The track’s chart-topping success catapulted Starship into the mainstream, and it continues to be a guilty pleasure for many listeners. While “We Built This City” is undoubtedly the album’s crowning achievement, there are other tracks that deserve recognition. “Sara” is a heartfelt and emotional ballad that showcases Mickey Thomas’s impressive vocal range. It’s a touching tribute to Slick’s late daughter and adds depth to the album. “Tomorrow Doesn’t Matter Tonight” and “Before I Go” are also worth noting, displaying a softer side of the band’s songwriting. Knee Deep in the Hoopla is not without its flaws. Some critics have criticized it for its overreliance on synthesizers and the glossy production values that were prevalent in the ’80s. While the album’s production may feel dated to some, it’s worth appreciating that it captured the zeitgeist of the era.
Knee Deep in the Hoopla may not be the most critically acclaimed work in Starship’s catalog, but it played a pivotal role in their evolution as a band and helped define the sound of the mid-’80s. The album’s undeniable catchiness and memorable singles make it a nostalgic trip back to a time when pop music was all about big hooks, big production, and big hair.
Ultimately, this is an album that encapsulates the spirit of its era. While it may not be a timeless masterpiece, it’s a fun and memorable slice of ’80s pop-rock that continues to entertain and resonate with listeners, thanks in large part to the enduring legacy (love it or hate it) of “We Built This City.”
