Supertramp's final album with the classic line-up of Hodgson, Davies, Helliwell, Thomson and Siebenberg was 1982’s ...Famous Last Words..., and the album found plenty of success on the charts.

Here we’re treated to this first record of the ’80s from Supertramp with greater fidelity thanks to a half-speed remaster that gives us the best possible experience for the nine tracks.

“Crazy” start with Rick Davies’ unmistakable voice alongside Helliwell’s saxophone and Hodgson’s pump organ that adds much to the melodic and rich climate. “Put On Your Old Brown Shoes” follows with Davies handling harmonica and piano, as Thomson’s frisky bass enters the grooves and soulful ideas.

“It’s Raining Again” and “Bonnie” land in the middle of first side. The former injects Hodgson’s glockenspiel and Davies’ melodica into the pop fun, while the latter benefits from Helliwell’s synth and Siebenberg’s skilled drums via the soft rock ideas. “Know Who You Are” exits the first half with Hodgson’s expressive pipes amid strong attention to atmosphere that emits dreaminess.

The back half leads with the mature and smooth “My Kind Of Lady,” which enlists, synth, sax and guitar strategically, as well as the warm spirit of “C’est Le Bon,” where Hodson’s meticulous string guitar and Helliwell’s clarinet won’t go unnoticed. “Waiting So Long” arrives late and might be the best tune, where distorted vocals and a plenty of progressive ideas enter the moody demeanor. “Don’t Leave Me Now” exits with a heartbreaking ballad that’s powerful and emotive.

Hodgson would leave the band after this record for a solo career, but his songs certainly helped the band see more mainstream success. Ann and Nancy Wilson contribute vocals on the album, which is a great addition, and the pop fueled moments fit in quite well on the FM dial.

…Famous Last Words… is an essential part of Supertramp’s history; though the band dynamics may have been crumbling during the recording sessions, the songs still sound great all these decades later.

Rating: B+

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