The ultimate power pop band and record! A Million Miles Away is a track that deserved to be a massive hit. Released on Geffen Records and featured in the 1983 film Valley Girl, it’s a perfect blend of chiming Rickenbackers, 1960s imagery, Byrds-inspired fringes, shades, and effortless power pop cool.
When I was in LA, I saw Peter Case perform a post-Plimsouls solo concert and made a point to talk to him afterward. I shared how influential The Nerves and The Plimsouls were to me as a UK fan. When I asked him if he knew any British pop bands, he surprised me by mentioning Orange Juice! It made me realise that, while LA was steeped in 1960s influence, its scene was worlds apart from the mod pop sound of London. Instead, their view of UK music was shaped by what they heard on top 40 radio in the car or on the MTV-curated big-screen.
An unforgettable track from an unforgettable band!
