by Richard Kennedy - SGN A&E Writer

Pet Shop Boys
Sunday, November 5 - 8pm
Paramount Theatre - $35-$62.50 www.ticketmaster.com <http:www.ticketmaster.com>

British synth-pop icons Pet Shop Boys make a rare appearance in Seattle this weekend. In fact, for the past few years they have only played a scattering of concert dates sporadically around the world. This is the first full-out North American tour in five years, an outing that finds them promoting their newest album, Fundamental. While they will be introducing new material, they will also be performing songs from their 20-year career.

Many of the band's Gay fans are sure to be at the show. Neil Tennant is openly Gay, and Chris Lowe has always been tight-lipped about his sexuality, but their songs have very often been about Gay romances and lifestyle. With tracks like "Can You Forgive Her" and their cover of The Village Peoples' "Go West" in the 90s, the music was a welcomed acknowledgment of their pro-Gay sexuality in mainstream pop culture. They have also worked with many Gay icons, such as Dusty Springfield, Liza Minnelli, Madonna and Kylie Minogue. With the main floor of the Paramount open, it's sure to be filled with dancing retro-fags and their 80s loving fag-hags in tow.

Like their music that has always remained cutting edge, Pet Shop Boys tours are also known for spectacular lighting and imaging. Their first road show in 1987 was an enormous production with film images directed by acclaimed Gay director Derek Jarman. After talking with a friend who saw the Pet Shop Boys recently in Dallas, he assured me they cover many of their hits, erect a grand stage set, and even bring a chorus of dancers. The Paramount Theatre's bottom floor will be for those 21 and over, so be ready for a dance party down there!

In case you are wondering what else the Pet Shop Boys have been up to, check out their official site at www.petshopboys.co.uk <http:www.petshopboys.co.uk>. A new double-CD live recording, performed with an orchestra is out, as well as a documentary of the duo's two decade-long career. In addition, you can hear song samples of their fantastic new album, Fundamental.  R. Kennedy

Pre-concert CD recommendations: Fundamental featuring "I'm With Stupid" and "The Sodom and Gomorrah Show." Also, try Pop Art featuring "West End Girls" and "It's a Sin."