"gratuitous sax & senseless violins" became sparks most successful album in germany reaching #29 and scored three hits on the german singles chart. while the album only reached #150 on the uk albums chart, the singles did well enough to return the group to the top 40, the first time since "beat the clock" in 1979. the lead single "when do i get to sing 'my way'"; made #7 in germany, #38 in the uk (it was re-released in may 1995 and peaked at #32). the second single "(when i kiss you) i hear charlie parker playing"; retitled "when i kiss you (i hear charlie parker playing)" #61 in germany and #36 in the uk. the final single "now that i own the bbc" did less well making #81 in germany and #60 in the uk.