Sparks (band)

Sparks is an American pop and rock duo consisting of brothers Ron (keyboards) and Russell Mael (vocals). Formed as the band Halfnelson in 1968 in the Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles, Sparks are noted for their quirky approach to songwriting; their music is often accompanied by sophisticated and acerbic lyrics—sometimes containing literary or cinematic references—and an idiosyncratic, theatrical stage presence, typified by the contrast between Russell's animated, hyperactive front-man antics and Ron's deadpan scowling. Russell Mael has a distinctive wide-ranging voice, while Ron Mael plays keyboards in an intricate and rhythmic style. Their frequently changing styles and visual presentations have kept the band at the forefront of modern, artful pop music.