Let’s talk about “Domino Dancing.” While “West End Girls” rightfully basks in the spotlight as a defining Pet Shop Boys track, it’s time to shine a light on another gem from their illustrious catalog – the euphoric, dreamy, sensual, and escapistic pop masterpiece that is “Domino Dancing.” It’s been over two decades since its release, and its magic remains as potent as ever.
My introduction to “Domino Dancing” was typical for many of my generation: MTV in 1989. I only caught a snippet of the video, interrupted by a parental request, but that brief glimpse was enough to leave an indelible mark. The Pet Shop Boys, Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe, exuded an effortless cool. Surrounded by beautiful people in a sun-drenched, visually arresting video, they themselves remained subtly in the background, radiating an aura of modesty and intrigue. And the song? It was everything the adjectives suggest – and more. Captivated, I rushed out and bought “Introspective” on vinyl, my very first Pet Shop Boys album. That was the beginning of a long-lasting musical love affair, all sparked by “Domino Dancing.”
Like any favorite song, there’s a risk of overexposure. While I wouldn’t say I ever grew tired of “Domino Dancing,” its constant rotation did, perhaps, diminish its immediate impact for a while. The magic seemed to fade slightly, as happens when you overindulge in something wonderful.
However, the beauty of a truly great song is its ability to resurface and resonate anew. For me, “Domino Dancing” staged a significant comeback in the summer of 1997. That entire season was soundtracked by a daily dose of its infectious rhythm and melancholic undertones. Through the highs and lows of life, “Domino Dancing” has consistently held a special place. It became my all-time favorite, a sonic touchstone anchoring me through good times and offering a comforting promise of more to come.
Even now, “Domino Dancing” is back on my regular playlist, enjoying near-daily spins. Perhaps it’s the resurgence of similar chord progressions in contemporary music, like Johnny Hates Jazz’s “Wonderful Life,” that reminds me of its enduring brilliance. Whatever the reason, “Domino Dancing” sounds as fresh and vital today as it did upon its release.
So, here’s to “Domino Dancing” – a testament to timeless pop craftsmanship and enduring personal resonance. It’s more than just a song; it’s an experience, a memory, and a feeling that continues to move us.
