The Names

The Names was a power pop band formed in Chicago in 1977 by Dave Galluzzo (lead vocals), Steve Hauser (keyboards), Rick Pemberton (guitars), Rick Szeluga (bass) and Matt Wynn (drums). Their only output was the 7" single 'Why Can't It Be', released in 1977 on the 1970s rock label from DeKalb (Illinois) Fiction Records. "Why Can't It Be" is an achingly beautiful number, sad enough to set even the most battle-scarred romantic cynic crying, though marred a tiny bit of the band's amateurish self-production. Still, it would be impossible to make Dave Galluzo's tender vocals sound unappealing, and a bit of the production pageantry comes through the good effect in the mix. The band's clever picture-sleeve spoof of the teen melodrama behind much power pop almost makes up for the dotish production: a beautiful girl sits at a table wiping away a tear, surrounded by an ashtray full of cigarette butts, a copy on "On Death And Dying", a wine glass and a revolver. [SOURCE: JEAN ROSEMBLUTH - Liner notes to Rhino's compilation 'DIY: Come Out And Play - American Power Pop I (1975-78)']