Sound Advice: CD Reviews - Big Star (#1 Record)

CD Review:
The first studio album (of three) the band produced in the '70s. Big Star began with Chris Bell (guitar, vocals), Alex Chilton (guitar, vocals), Andy Hummel (bass) and Jody Stephens (drums). They were formed in Memphis after Chilton moved back to the city (he went to high school there) after leaving the Box Tops, a blue-eyed soul group. Chilton replaced Steve Ray, the original guitarist when the band was known as Ice Water. With Chilton coming in they renamed the band Big Star.

Mostly ignored by the mainstream press and listening audience, Big Star was a doomed band from the beginning. If it wasn't from the numerous accolades from other bands who later mentioned them as an influence, the band might have been a blip on the power pop scene. You will see the implosion of the band on their third and last release Third/Sister Lovers and from that came another reason for their staying power in the minds of music critics and fans alike. That is, that album is one hell of a depressing and freaky album.

Anyways, the things that struck me when first listening to #1 Record was that the band continues to use an acoustical guitar in the faster songs, not dropping that instrument for an electrical guitar. It makes the sound of the album different, and reminds me, with the vocals, of Tom Petty. With addition of bells and other sounds on various tracks, the album is quite infectious. This release, as well as the two others, style the band, in my mind, as the type of band that doesn't grab you right away, but need a few listens before you begin to enjoy their music.

The lyrics reminded me of two things, in reference to two main subjects. The first is simple love. Coming out of the "free love" generation of the '60s, you can see an influence from that period in the songs dealing with teen love/emotion and references to natural occurrences. Songs like "Thirteen." "My Life Is Right," and "Give Me Another Chance" show the teen love. Songs like "Watch the Sunrise" and "The India Song" indicate the beauty in nature and the wanting of a more mature love and escape from the pains of life. The second thing the lyrics remind me of, is the subtle references to the Vietnam War which was ending at the time. The band doesn't blatantly put out an anti-war song, but, for example, in the song "The Ballad Of El Goodo" you can see the reference I am making.

Because of their importance in music history, mostly for bringing power pop back to respectability and by influencing future bands like R.E.M., Big Star should be heard. And, like myself, after a few listens you will see what made this band a critical success even though not a commercial one.

Scott D. Brown