why Numan ???
MUSIC FOR CHAMELEONS The first and foremost attraction is the music. Its not something that can easily be described, and I'm not going to try to here. The nearest comparable work is possibly by bands such as Depeche Mode, although in reality there's only really one person doing this type of music! It's a unique experience. Each new album generally brings a new style, however subtle. There are scores of imitators, and many tribute bands. Another factor is the sheer volume of published songs. Well over 300 tracks have been released so far - not including of live versions. Many of my colleagues who have been won over to his music have started their interest from the instrumental tracks - a good example would be the 'Human' album of film music, available anywhere!
THE IMAGE IS This has changed many times over the years - as each album is released, the 'look' will change. The look for the 'Sacrifice' album of the mid 1990s has now been adapted for the 'Exile' album and on again for 'Pure'.
THE MACHMAN If you've been lucky enough to meet him, you will remember the experience I'm sure! I have been a fan since 1980, and first saw him on the Teletour. I met him first during 1983 only half a mile from my house - over at our local coastal Sussex airfield. I remember a few things about the conversation even now - the usual fan questions!
I have since been lucky enough to travel with the 'Pete and Frank coachload of dedicated fans' on the past few UK concert tours, and have consequently had the opportunity to have a word now and again. However, in that environment you see the man at work, as it were, and you know when to speak and when to hold back and leave the man alone. Not everyone knows when not to speak, since their enthusiasm may get the better of them, especially at the after-concert gatherings in hotel bars. Gary and Gemma and the band make themselves available at certain times during the tour - these have been excellent times. Not all people in Gary's position would do this, and so the fans should be thankful this occurs, and not abuse the privilige!
I'M AN AGENT When you buy a GN album or single you know that its not just the music that Gary is involved in. When you view the package, you know that's his idea all the way through - the design, typeface, graphics have all been done 'in-house' - the music has been recorded, mixed, produced as well as composed by Gary. There's no dilution of idea. In the past there have been - say on Machine and Soul for example - but now it is pure. With 'Sacrifice', 'Exile' and 'Pure' you feel as if there have been no blocks between the original idea and the final work. Two variants of albums are now produced, with an extended mix following the original which further explores the themes and styles of the original.
I DREAM OF WIRES Even in the ever-increasing age of the internet, I'm willing to bet there are few 'rock-stars' (if that is the correct noun?) who keep such a close involvement in their official internet page, (Nu_World) Indeed there is an excellent provision of information for fans - the Official Fan Club is well run from within the family.