Song In My Head

Japan - "Quiet Life"
The title track from Japan's 1979 album was a departure for the previously glam-punk outfit, and it set in motion much of the new wave sound of the 1980s. It's pretty clear Duran Duran liberally borrowed from this track for their entire catalog (but at least they gave credit where credit is due.)

Birmingham's Best - Do You Agree?

I stumbled on this listing from the Birmingham Mail -- the top 10 bands from Birmingham. And I'd love hear what you think:
#1 - Black Sabbath
#2 - Duran Duran
#3 - ELO
#4 - Ocean Colour Scene
#5 - The Move
#6 - The Beat (The English Beat)
#7 - The Moody Blues
#8 - UB40
#9 - The Twang
#10 - The Streets

I think it's hard to argue with the first two. Personally, I'd move the Beat and UB40 higher. I think Ocean Colour Scene and The Move can come down a bit. The Twang have promise, but haven't been around long enough. And I think you know how I feel about The Streets. Mike Skinner's the man.

Here's the link to the full article.
http://www.birminghammail.net/news/top-stories/2011/10/05/birmingham-s-top-ten-bands-do-you-agree-with-our-list-97319-29542854/