At The Drop Of A Hat

Michael Flanders and Donald Swann began their musical comedy act in 1956 and continued to delight audiences with their concerts until 1967. In this short time they achieved international renownment with their three albums, of which At the Drop of a Hat was the first. Whether extolling the joys of riding a London omnibus in "A Transport of Delight" or sorting out the complexities of stereo equipment in their "Song of Reproduction," Flanders and Swann always found a skewed view of any topic they touched. The absurdities of interior decorating in "Design for Living," the hypocrisy of social mores in "The Reluctant Cannibal," and the troubles resulting from kitchen gadgetry in "Too Many Cookers" were typical targets for their lighthearted barbs. Yet some songs stand out as classics, and it is small wonder that "The Gnu Song," "Misalliance," and the naughty "Madeira M'Dear" have acquired special status among fans. But of all these, the joyous song of "The Hippopotamus" is the best known and loved around the world. This album was recorded in 1959 at the Fortune Theatre, London, and was produced for Parlophone by George Martin. In 1991, it was included in the EMI box set, The Complete Flanders and Swann.

A perfect evening of British cocktail piano wit, this live performance at the Fortune Theatre in London should delight any fan of such classic BBC radio shows as My Word and My Music. It shares with them same droll narrative, dry wit, and sparkling piano. "A Gnu" and "Hippopotamus" both became justly famous among adults and children alike, particularly for the former's punning malapropisms: "I'm a G-nu /How do you do/You really ought to K-now W-ho's W-ho." "Design for Living" gives a wry look at two bachelors attempting to redecorate a house, and the leering "Madeira, M'Dear?" is a cheeky account of that oldest of seduction ploys. Charming and witty, this album deserves to be far better known. ~ Paul Collins