TMBG Randomizer #345: Istanbul (Not Constantinople)
Audio: Istanbul (Not Constantinople)
Album: Flood
Release Date: 1990
Alright folks, it’s time.
It’s time to listen to one of TMBG’s most famous songs: “Istanbul (Not Constantinople)”. Just like with “Don’t Let’s Start”, I’m fairly nervous to tackle this song — not because of opinion, but simply because I want to get it right. I mean, this is a huge achievement from the band, and I can’t just half-ass my review.
Anyways, to business. This track was a part of the John’s live repertoire for a small while, before being translated to drum machine and released on Their breakthrough record Flood. As well as Flood being a commercial hit, this song (along with “Particle Man”) were included in episodes of Tiny Toons Adventures, which helped bolster both the song’s and the band’s popularity.
Moments of Interest: One of the coolest bits of trivia that I learned while studying this song was that the majority of the instruments used in this song are samples. According to Flans, the only two parts that were recorded were the violin (Mark Feldman) and trumpet (Charlie Sepulveda) solos.
The violin solo leads in the song. Its long and winding performance sets the tone of the song perfectly. My only problem with it is that, combined with the end of “Lucky Ball & Chain”, it provides an overly-long intro. Of course, that’s more the latter’s fault, and really the length it’s at is nice.
The violin is then joined by the trumpet for a joint-solo in the middle of the song (or really near the end of the song). This duet between the two is maybe the high-point of the song. With the rhythm track blazing along, the two can just fill the whole song with a giddy energy.
In all, the pacing of this song is really strange and therefore very interesting. It speeds and slows on a dime, and I rarely am bored by the song. One of the most memorable sections is easily the “Old New York” interlude. It provides a consistent change from the fast-paced blitz of the chorus, and I’ve met not a soul who doesn’t sing this section with joy.
Favorite Aspect: I’ve got to give Mr. Feldman and Mr. Sepulveda their dues; that solo is truly outstanding, and although I adore Their live performances of this song, nothing will ever top the original for me.
Score: Phew! Well, I think I was able to do this fantastic piece of work justice, don’t y’all think?
In conclusion, “Istanbul (Not Constantinople)” is one of TMBG’s masterpieces, and it deserves all of the recognition that it deserves. Even if I don’t think of it as one of my favorite songs, that doesn’t mean it isn’t worth a full-on 10/10.
If this song is so popular, why is it only ranked at #261 on TMBW?
Upcoming: Exquisite Dead Guy [Factory Showroom]