Sparks - Kimono My House (1974)

Leo was totally nuts about this album, which he blasted on his Rotel stereo every chance he got in the '70s. His more sedate older brother, who was into country, must have had fits each time this was whirring on the turntable.

'Kimono My House' sounded too much like a quirky comical affair to me, which was why I never ran out and bought a copy of the LP by the American group led by brothers Ron and Russell Mael. But listening to this weird art-pop ride on the recently-remastered CD after all these years, I can see why Leo was so turned on by the Sparks. I mean, these guys not only had a knack for cool irony but also dished out some truly wicked bits of wit!