In what could only be considered the funniest practical joke ever perpetrated against me — I suspected by Blogcritics’ illustrious boss Eric Olsen, and if not him then by the Universe at large — I have had the new Crazy Frog Christmas single fling its way, unbidden by me, through my letterbox.
My immediate thoughts were that, after having a lengthy discussion with Eric — involving removing my own ovaries with a splintered wooden spoon rather than even CONSIDER listening to it — he thought it would be funny to tell the PR people that I would review it. Now that I have cleaned up all the blood from my burst ear drums, and the vomit from laughing my self sick at the thought of Eric doing this to me, I have decided to write up the review to end all reviews! I have always said that some jokes are too obvious to take advantage of but I think this time I will.
First I should explain the cultural importance of the Christmas number one in Britain. Every year there is a race by numerous pop wannabe’s, has-been crooners and other various — frequently vacuous — musical “artists” to get that coveted chart spot on Christmas day. To be forevermore known as a Christmas number one artist. Sounds ridiculous I know, but this most-lusted-after honour is preceded and subsequently followed by overwhelming media attention, including coverage in every single tabloid newspaper in Britain. The race can and has launched careers.
This cultural idiosyncrasy has even been immortalised in the film Love Actually, in which Bill Nighy’s character, Billy Mack, remakes “Love Is All Around You” by The Troggs — most recently and famously covered by Wet Wet Wet (15 weeks at UK number one in 1994) — in an attempt to re-launch his career. Even The Darkness have attempted to grab the festive top spot. Indeed every year you can place a bet on who you believe is most likely to be the holder of said dubious honour. Last year’s Christmas number one was Shayne Wards’ “That’s My Goal”; the year before it was Band Aid 20’s re-make of “Do They Know It’s Christmas Time”.
Article comments
1 - Snarkattack
Aural syphilis about sums it up! I was never a fan of the Crazy Frog (much to my brother and mother's shock) and its various incarnations have forever traumatised me. There is some small comfort in knowing I'm not alone.
Bill Nighy's character in said film about was very funny.
Ah poo, now I miss Christmas in Britain... :(
2 - A.L. Harper
I love Bill Nighy! He is easily one of my favourite actors! Certainly my favourite British actor!
3 - Jules 7
Crazy Frog's version of Wham's 1984 single 'Last Christmas' is hilarious. Take the single with a pinch of salt, but be warned, it will probably go Top 10 this Xmas. Ding Ding!
4 - Rock Nose Inc.
Hey, consider it a homage to George Michael and Wham. It's got the festive spirit. In the video Santa is kidnapped by evil demons and Crazy Frog saves the day. The only thing missing is George smoking a spliff. Give the frog a break, willya?
5 - A.L. Harper
That doesn't stop it being pish! Don't waste your money honestly!
6 - Diary of a Mad Housewife
My kids love Crazy Frog. All their mates are playing this song at school. It's fun. Give the kids what the want. Actually, it's a pretty good cover of Wham's 1984 hit. If it shuts the kids up, I'm all for it.
7 - Wake-Me-Up-Before-You-Go-Go
Dear Mrs. Scrooge,
I think you are taking this song too seriously. Have you seen the video? It's really cute and ties in nicely with the festive spirit.
Ding-Ding!!