Exploring Men Without Hats' Prog Rock Journey: From "The Safety Dance" to "Sideways
Men Without Hats gained fame with their 1983 hit single "The Safety Dance," but there is more to this Canadian band than just synthpop. The band, consisting of singer Ivan Doroschuk and his brothers Stefan and Colin, all trained musicians, had a hidden love for progressive rock.
Their music video for "The Safety Dance," directed by Tim Pope, featured eccentric imagery reminiscent of folk revival and Morris dancing, adding a touch of prog to their pop image. With a strong presence of keyboards in their music, Men Without Hats' affinity for old-school prog became evident in their fifth album, "Sideways," released in 1991.
Collaborating with musicians from diverse backgrounds like Michel 'Away' Langevin from Voivod and John Kastner from Doughboys, Men Without Hats explored a more experimental sound on "Sideways." The album also featured a guest appearance by Ian Anderson of Jethro Tull, adding a touch of prog authenticity to their music.
Despite their prog leanings, Men Without Hats faced challenges with their album "Sideways" failing to gain traction in the US market. The band eventually disbanded, leaving behind an unreleased concept album titled "UFOs Are Real." Their journey into prog rock remains a fascinating chapter in their musical history.
In conclusion, Men Without Hats' foray into progressive rock showcased their versatility and willingness to explore new musical territories beyond their synthpop roots. While their prog endeavors may not have received widespread recognition, they left a legacy of experimentation and creativity that continues to intrigue fans and music enthusiasts alike.