The Wake

Big Star - #1 Record

The debut LP of the Memphis Tennessee power-poppers Big Star could be one of the greatest records you’ve never heard. In fact, this beautiful album review could easily be filled with paragraph after paragraph of the numerous artists and rock and roll outfits that have been shaped and influenced by the record’s prose. Teenage Fanclub, Elliott Smith and the Replacements are just a few of the more recognizable followers of Big Star’s genius. Released in 1972, Big Star’s #1 Record has become a crafty cornerstone to the world of forgotten pop gems.

#1 Record boasts the combined song writing efforts of Alex Chilton and Chris Bell. Although these two songwriters straddle noticeably different methodologies, their collaboration in Big Star uses their personal differences to create a range that is both sporadic and refined, consisting of jangly power pop to sentimental and beautifully composed ballads. One of the most powerful aspects of the album is the innocence and sincerity oozing from songs such as “Thirteen,” “When My Baby’s Beside Me” and “The Ballad of El Goodo.” It has become a rare occasion for an artist to reminisce while still making an emotional connection with the listener. #1 Record has perfected this combination. As Bell and Chilton harmonize listeners will find themselves comfortably snuggling beneath a beautiful blanket of Big Star’s naivety.

Upon a first listen it is easy to hear #1 Record as a dead relic of 70’s rock. Due to the frequent and often abominable bastardization of Big Star’s sound over the last 35 years, it is initially difficult to understand the genius of their debut. When observed in context however, the originality of their alluring power pop screams louder than any cock rock album that tried to bury it.

Although it was originally issued to positive reviews, #1 Record failed to become a success outside of well-read rock critics and musician circles. Nevertheless, since the bands implosion in 1975, their sound has influenced countless artists and lead to the creation of some of greatest music of our generation. There is much to be learned while spinning the eclectic and poppy goodness of Big Star on your home stereo.

Check this album out if you like: The Replacements, The Raspberries, The Kinks, Cheap Trick and Paul McCartney

To hear tracks from the #1 Record and hear other such poppy delights, tune into Radio K’s “Last Years Model” on Monday April 14th and 21st.