Burning The Ground Exclusive
In March 1989, Swiss electronic duo Yello returned with a single that perfectly encapsulated their offbeat brilliance. Lifted from their sixth studio album Flag, “Of Course I’m Lying” may not have stormed the charts like “Oh Yeah” or “The Race,” but it stands today as one of the duo’s most fascinating deep cuts — a track that rewards those willing to lean in and listen closely.
From the opening moments, the song unfolds like a scene rather than a traditional pop record. Boris Blank constructs a lush, cinematic soundscape built on exotic samples, hypnotic rhythms, and finely detailed textures. It’s classic Yello, but more restrained — less bombast, more atmosphere. The groove simmers rather than explodes, pulling you into a world that feels equal parts neon-lit cityscape and late-night reverie.
At the center of it all is Dieter Meier, whose vocal delivery blurs the line between narration and performance. He doesn’t so much sing the lyrics as inhabit them, offering a sly, detached monologue that feels like a private joke shared with the listener. The title itself — “Of Course I’m Lying” — is a riddle wrapped in a smirk. Is he confessing, deceiving, or simply playing a role? With Meier, it’s never entirely clear, and that ambiguity is precisely the point.
Adding another layer of intrigue are the backing vocals by Billy MacKenzie of The Associates. His unmistakable presence subtly elevates the track, weaving an emotional undercurrent beneath Meier’s cool detachment. It’s a pairing that works beautifully — theatrical, mysterious, and slightly surreal.
Commercially, the single found modest success, reaching No. 23 on the UK Singles Chart in April 1989 and remaining there for eight weeks. While it didn’t chart in the United States, its impact has proven far more enduring among fans. Over time, Flag has grown into a cult favorite, and “Of Course I’m Lying” remains one of its standout moments — a track that exemplifies Yello’s ability to exist just outside the mainstream while quietly influencing everything around them.
The 12″ release itself is also notable. Issued in the UK and Europe as a two-record set, it offered collectors an expanded listening experience, including the sought-after “Metropolitan Mixdown.” I currently have the second release in hand, but I’ve tracked down the first — which includes Part One of the Metropolitan Mixdown — and will be sharing that as soon as it arrives.
“Of Course I’m Lying” isn’t a song that demands attention. It doesn’t shout or chase trends. Instead, it whispers, lingers, and leaves a trace long after it ends. Nearly four decades on, it still feels singular — a testament to Yello’s unique place in electronic music: always slightly off-center, always ahead of the curve, and always playing with the listener just enough to keep things interesting.
SIDE A:
Of Course I’m Lying 5:59
Written-By –B. Blank, D. Meier
Bostich 3:34
Written-By – B. Blank, D. Meier
SIDE B:
The Yello Metropolitan Mixdown 1989 Part II 10:14
Remix – Paul Dakeyne*
Written-By – B. Blank, D. Meier
B.1 Dakeyne Intro
B.2 The Rhythm Divine
B.3 Goldrush
B.4 Desire
B.5 La Habanera
B.6 Blazing Saddles
B.7 Domingo
B.8 Live At The Roxy
B.9 Pin Ball Cha Cha
B.10 Swing
VINYL GRADE:
Vinyl: Near Mint
Sleeve: Near Mint
| Chart | Peak Position | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Switzerland | #30 | 1989 |
| Australia (Kent Music Report) | #123 | 1989 |
| Germany | #48 | 1989 |
| U.K. Singles Chart | #23 | 1989 |
RELEASE INFORMATION:
Label: Mercury – YELLO 322, Mercury – 872 947-1
Format: Vinyl, 12″, 45 RPM, 2/2
Country: UK & Europe
Released: 1989
Genre: Electronic
Style: Synth-pop
CREDITS:
- Backing Vocals [Backing Chorus] – Billy MacKenzie (tracks: A1)
- Composed By [Music], Arranged By – Boris Blank
- Cover – Ernst Gamper
- DJ Mix [Megamix, Uncredited] – Paul Dakeyne* (tracks: B)
- Lyrics By, Vocals – Dieter Meier
- Percussion – Beat Ash (tracks: A1)
- Producer, Engineer – Yello
- Remix – Paul Dakeyne* (tracks: B)
NOTES:
This is “Record II” of a 2-record set. “Record I” (sold separately) was housed in gatefold packaging with space for this
Track B remixed for DMC.
From the album YELLO FLAG
Made in England
Buy the 12″ at DISCOGS
VINYL TRANSFER & AUDIO RESTORATION:
-DjPaulT
for BURNING THE GROUND
THE GEAR:
Turntable: Technics SL-1200MK7
Cartridge/Stylus: Ortofon Concorde Music Black
Phono Pre-amp: Pro-Jec Tube Box DS2
Tubes: Genalex Gold Lion 12AX7 ECC83/B759 Gold Pins Vacuum Tube – Matched Pair
Audio Interface: MOTU M4
Turntable Isolation Platform: ISO-Tone™ Turntable Isolation Platform
Platter: Pro Spin Acrylic Mat
Stabilizer: Pro-Ject Record Puck
Record Cleaning: VPI HW 16.5 Record Cleaning Machine
Artwork Scans: Epson Workforce WF-7610 Professional Printer/Scanner
SOFTWARE:
Recording/Editing: Adobe Audition 25 (Recording)
Down Sampling/Dither: iZotope RX Advanced 2
Artwork Editor: Adobe Photoshop CS5
Click Removal: Manual
FLAC/MP3 Conversion: dBpoweramp
M3U Playlist: Playlist Creator
RESTORATION NOTES:
All vinyl rips are recorded @ 32bit/float
FLAC (Level Eight)
Artwork scanned at 600dpi
**24bit FLAC Only Available For Seven Days!
Password: burningtheground
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Thank you for this wonderful memory (and I’ve never heard the Metropolitan Mixdown on the B-side). Always thought it was really audacious of Yello to follow up “The Race” with the almost perfect pop of “Of Course I’m Lying”. It showed their other, non-techno/dance, side beautifully. One of pop music’s leading Borises… not to mention pop’s leading Dieter!
Thanks Paul for the Yello, they are always much appreciated, they were releasing 12″s in style back in the day, right from the beginning they were always worth following, I remember buying the “Pumping Velvet” US 12″ when it came out first, Best Wishes.
You’re welcome, Conor. “Pumping Velvet” is a fantastic 12-inch, and I appreciate you sharing your thoughts.
Thank you Paul. And again you uploaded another 12″ which is/was missing in my collection. I read below that you’re waiting for Record 2 and I am really looking forward to that. I wanted to buy this set, but there are currently none available in Germany on Discog. Other European sellers have such high shipping costs that it’s unfortunately not worth buying.
You’re welcome, Toxicaudio. I was lucky to find a US seller with a Near Mint copy, which doesn’t happen often—especially when it comes to imports from US sellers. I’m looking forward to posting it.
I have this on CD Single. It will be good to compare the fidelity with the Vinyl rip. Thanks.
Thanks, Wes!
That’ll be a fun comparison. I’ve found over the years that CD singles can sometimes come across a bit flat or sterile, while the vinyl tends to open things up — more depth, more warmth, and a bit more life in the low end and textures.
Curious to hear what you think once you’ve had a chance to A/B them. This is the kind of track where those subtle differences can really stand out.
Appreciate you checking it out!
Admittedly I was only familiar with Yello from two songs: Oh Yeah and Unbelievable (Theme From “Ford Fairlane”). This single is not what I would have expected from them! As you mentioned, it lingers, it leaves a trace long after it ends. It grows on you with repeated listens and rewards you with its smooth textures. Thank you Paul!!
Thanks, Retro Hound! That’s a great way to come into Yello — most people know them from “Oh Yeah” or “Unbelievable,” so hearing something like this can definitely feel like stepping into a completely different world. That’s one of the things I’ve always loved about them… they’re never just one sound. You nailed it — this one really reveals itself over time. It’s not immediate, but once it clicks, those textures and that groove just pull you in deeper with every listen. Definitely more of a late-night headphone track than a dancefloor moment. Really glad you gave it a chance… Read more »
This is great, Yello is amazing. Ever since hearing those first few seconds of Oh Yeah I have been a fan. Of Course I’m Lying is such an underrated track – its got that smooth soulful flow to it, I always think it’s channeling 10cc’s I’m Not In Love (and this came out a year before Will To Power brought that track back to the limelight). Really enjoyable single with both Bostich and the second part of the epic massive megamix! All meat and no filler. I think I like your transfer better than the CD single Paul, thank you… Read more »
Thanks, JP! I love that comparison to 10cc — I hadn’t thought of it in exactly those terms, but you’re right, there is that same kind of smooth, almost hypnotic emotional undercurrent running through it. Not identical, of course, but definitely tapping into that late-night, introspective vibe in a very Yello way. And yeah, once those opening seconds of “Oh Yeah” get into your brain, it’s pretty much game over — they had a way of pulling you into their world instantly. Totally agree on this 12″ too — it really is “all meat and no filler.” Having “Bostich” alongside… Read more »
Hey JP! I loved what you had to say about the song! 10cc’s “I’m Not In Love” is my favorite song of all time. It’s the atmosphere of the whole track and that haunting production! I can’t believe the song came out in the 1970’s! It is a groundbreaking record. There are remakes, I’m a fan of Olive’s version. But my very favorite cover is by, George Monroe. He transforms the song from a tender ballad to a dancefloor scorcher. It’s amazing! I also like the song you shared the other day with us too. Maybe Paul might have it… Read more »
Jeff – Thanks for saying all that!! And I really enjoyed your comment about Yello below as well. Reading it was electric!! Such a great story, thanks for sharing.
And I’ll use any opportunity to bring up that 10CC track – love it so much. So many covers but nothing beats the original. I totally forgot Olive did a a cover! Her big hit You’re Not Alone is something else.
Some great taste from you too 🙂
I just love the bulk of Yello’s work. Thank you for sharing this one!
Thanks, VanceMan!
I’m right there with you — Yello’s catalog runs deep, and there’s so much to discover beyond the big hits. They really had a knack for creating their own little universe with every track.
Glad you enjoyed this one — always happy to share more of their gems!
Thanks, Paul!
You’re very welcome, Ashley! 😊
Really glad you enjoyed it — more Yello (and other surprises) on the way!
Absolutely wonderful.
A spellbinding track from their unreleased film ‘Snowball’.
Always adore Billy’s vocals in any Yello track, it’s a match made in heaven.
Absolutely, Paul! That Snowball connection just adds another layer of mystique to it, doesn’t it? It already feels cinematic, but knowing it was tied to an unreleased film makes it even more intriguing — like we’re only hearing part of a bigger story. And I couldn’t agree more about Billy — Billy MacKenzie had such a unique, expressive voice. Paired with Yello’s sound, it truly feels like a perfect match. He brings a subtle emotional weight that beautifully balances out Dieter’s cool, detached delivery. Really glad you mentioned that — it’s one of those details that makes the track even… Read more »
Nice one, I’ve felt for a long time that Yello was inspired by Leonard Cohen, and later on, Leonard Cohen was inspired by Yello. This sounds like something from a movie, like the closing scene, when the recurring background theme plays and the singing describes a pivotal existential moment in the film. Billy Mackenzie’s voice really adds to the mood, his presence is so strong, and gives the song an extra depth, like a spice.
Thanks, Joey! That’s a really interesting take — I can definitely hear what you mean about that cinematic, end-credits kind of feel. It does play like a closing scene where everything just hangs in the air for a moment. Yello always had that knack for making tracks feel like they belonged to a film that didn’t quite exist. The Leonard Cohen comparison is fascinating too. That spoken, reflective delivery — especially the way Dieter Meier approaches it — does tap into that same kind of poetic, almost philosophical tone. Not something you’d immediately associate with Yello, but it’s there beneath… Read more »
Oh man, I can’t wait to to have both Metropolitan Mixdowns in top DJ PaulT quality! THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!!
Haha — thanks, Axel!
I had a feeling you’d be excited about that😊 The Metropolitan Mixdown is such a beast, and having both parts in proper quality really makes it feel complete.
As soon as the first record arrives and I get it cleaned up, I’ll get it posted. Definitely looking forward to hearing the full thing the way it was meant to be heard.
Appreciate the enthusiasm — you’re going to enjoy this one!
The context: If “Oh Yeah” was Yello’s fun and playful side, “Of Course I’m Lying” is its seductive and melancholic counterpart. Boris Blank’s arrangements are impeccable, creating a soundscape that feels like walking through a rainy European city at three in the morning.
In short: It’s one of the most elegant electronic tracks ever recorded. It’s ironic, it’s sophisticated, and above all, it’s deeply atmospheric.
That’s beautifully put — and I think you’ve absolutely nailed the contrast. If “Oh Yeah” is all wink and swagger, then “Of Course I’m Lying” really is that after-hours comedown… quieter, more introspective, and a lot more mysterious. Boris Blank had such a gift for painting those sonic environments, and that “rainy European city at 3 a.m.” image fits perfectly. You can almost see the reflections on wet pavement as the track unfolds. And yes — elegant is the word. Yello always had a sense of sophistication that set them apart from their peers. Even when they were being playful,… Read more »
The sublime Yello. The instruments and aural soundscape they produced is utterly amazing even when listening some forty years later.Truly ahead of their time. Many thanks Paul!
Thanks, DJ Robski! Absolutely — that’s what blows me away every time I revisit Yello. The level of detail in their productions still feels modern, even decades later. Boris Blank was layering sounds in a way that a lot of producers wouldn’t fully explore until years down the line. And it’s not just technical — it’s the atmosphere they create. These tracks don’t age because they were never chasing trends to begin with… they were building their own world. Really glad you enjoyed this one — it’s a perfect example of just how far ahead of the curve they really… Read more »
Yello is, along with Soft Cell and Depeche Mode, my ultimate favorite artist! I fell in love with them by hearing the great single, “Bostich” on New York City radio! It was strange but really caught my ears and made me want to dance like there was no tomorrows! From there it was, “I Love You” which made me seek out their albums. This started an obsession for me. In a music shop in New Hope, Pennsylvania, I lucked out by discovering their magnificent collection, “The New Mix In One Go.” This compilation led me to the land of cinematic… Read more »
Jeff — this absolutely made my day reading it! I love hearing stories like this, because it’s exactly how Yello pulls people in — one track, one strange little moment on the radio, and suddenly you’re down the rabbit hole. “Bostich” was that record for so many people — weird, hypnotic, and completely unlike anything else out there at the time. And then going from that into something like “I Love You” and eventually The New Mix In One Go… yeah, that’s the full immersion right there. Once you get into their albums, you realize it’s not just songs —… Read more »