Consisting of lead singer
Molly Johnson and multi-instrumentalist Norman Orenstein, the Canadian duo released this major-label debut in 1991. Their core sound of hard pop is one whose commercial popularity was beginning to flag at the time, not that there is much on
Infidels that merits attention. "Love It When You Smile at Me" has a new wave feel to it (and some cool "Mony Mony"-like background vocals) and "Celebrate" has a pleasing mid-tempo melody. However, most of the album, beginning with the lead track "100 Watt Bulb," is woefully pedestrian and generic.
Johnson has a powerful set of pipes, but lacks distinction. She isn't given much help lyrically, either, as the lyrics are cliché-ridden. They try to incorporate elements of funk and dance into "Without Love" and "Hold Me Tight," but it sounds forced and processed.
Infidels missed its opportunity by about three years and ten songs. ~ Tom Demalon