Everything

Southern California’s the Bangles went from being among the highlights of L.A.’s Paisley Underground scene to superstars in the highly stylized ‘80s. Unlike their first EP and album, Different Light and Everything were heavily produced affairs that suited up the ladies for radio play. It worked, since tunes such as “In Your Room” and “Eternal Flame” continued the group’s streak of pop hits. The productions emphasized the group’s vocal harmonies alongside keyboard-embellished back-ups. There are still traces of their ‘60s influences. Bassist Michael Steele takes a dominant role with the easy jangle of “Complicated Girl,” the swooning vibe of “Something to Believe In,” and the look back at her days in the Runaways (“Glitter Years”). The Peterson sisters contribute the psychedelically influenced “Bell Jar.” The album does feature an unusual amount of musical guests, but the overall result, while not as personally satisfying for the group, is a smooth, attractive sound that serves as a bridge between the pop music of the ‘60s and ‘80s.