027: Sparks - No. 1 in Heaven (1979) - Tryouts for the Human Race

We return to Sparks’ No. 1 in Heaven with a deep dive into its powerful opening track, Tryouts for the Human Race. But first—live show recaps! All three hosts recently saw Sparks live, and the energy, intimacy, and smiles were unforgettable. From personal highlights to Russell’s incredible stage presence, we reflect on how well Sparks’ music (both new and old) connects with modern audiences.

Then it’s on to the main event—a breakdown of one of Sparks’ most dynamic and synth-driven songs. We explore the Giorgio Moroder collaboration, the groundbreaking use of sequencers and live drums, and what exactly the lyrics are about (hint: sperm). We also watch the rare music video and reflect on the song’s cult status today.