Sparks playing live at the o2 Academy, Leeds. Sparks are an American pop and rock band formed in Los Angeles in 1972 by brothers Ron (keyboards) and Russell Mael (vocals). The duo formed in 1968 under the name Halfnelson. Known for their quirky approach to song writing,. Sparks’ music is often accompanied by intelligent, sophisticated, and acerbic lyrics and an idiosyncratic, theatrical stage presence, typified in the contrast between Russell’s animated, hyperactive front man antics and Ron’s deadpan scowling. They are also noted for Russell Mael’s distinctive falsetto voice and Ron Mael’s intricate and rhythmic keyboard playing style.