Oingo Boingo Album: “Dark at the End of the Tunnel”

One of the most underrated albums I know about; pretty close to flawless. "mellow" (as I heard one person describe it) compared to most other Boingo material, but that doesn't detract a bit from the strength of these fantastic songs. There's a charged, new depth here to their commentaries on American life and L.A. freeways, and it gives DATEOTT much of its richness, making it an eminently pleasurable, repeatable listen. On my list of perfect travelling music, as well as on my list of favorite albums ever.

In what is easily the best studio album that Oingo Boingo ever produced, Danny Elfman has shown a sophisticated side. Obviously, all of the movie soundtrack music has changed him, for the better. One, evidently, can only live on party music for so long. Dark at the End of the Tunnel is mature, brilliant masterpiece.

You can't go wrong with Oingo Boingo ...that is until they become just "Boingo"

This album didn't hit me as being great until the 10th time I listened to it in my car. I had the impulse to just skip to the songs I knew...yet I resisted because I KNEW Danny Elfman was a master of music. At least that is what I had always thought of him, and for some reason listened to every album he has ever made except this one, until last year that is. I think he is this century's Mozart. An extremely talented musician, even if you don't appreciate his style you must appreciate his talent. This album will make you happy when you listen to it. Every song is perfectly done, and you can't argue with Danny. Honestley, from Sam Phipps to Danny Elfman this album just works PERFECT.

An underappreciated release from an underappreciated band. While the boys eased up on the wild brilliance and rhumba-phones, true Boingo fans will see the character of the band coming through. Dark at the end of the tunnel reflects a seasoned band still unafraid to express themselves as they see fit. A pensive, well-crafted side of Boingo that will grow on you.

Dark definately presents a change from some of Boingo's earlier work. The band's music is mellower and more melodic, and some of Danny Elfman's best songs lyrically are included on this album. "Skin," "Out of Control," and "Right to Know" alone make this CD worth the purchase price, and all of the other great songs make it one of my favorite CDs overall.