"Sweet Jane" - Lou Reed Live

Lou Reed defined New York City Punk Rock in the early 1970’s and even pulled that weight long into the 1980’s and beyond. I was never a huge fan, but some of his stuff was stellar, like this song. Another highlight of his long career was the album “Coney Island” released in the late 1970’s.

Some folks dismiss him as a minor blip on the radar of Rock and Roll history, but I have to disagree. He was influential in taking the music he heard and turning that into something new and unique. His lyrics were always edgy, as in “Take a Walk on the Wild Side” which explored the gay sex scene just a few years after the Stonewall Riots in New York’s West Village. The man pushed envelopes.

Although not a guitarist along the lines of Eric Clapton or any of the other superstars he was able to gain and hold a fan base for over 40 years with only a few big hits to sustain him. His magic was in connecting with his audience and knowing how to reach them. Just listen to this song; I mean how many ways can you play 2 chords over and over again and keep it interesting? Somehow he does, which presents an equal challenge for the lead guitarist.

There is a much earlier version of this song recorded in Paris in 1974. Mr. Reed was decidedly under the influence of “glam rock” at the time; it shows in his stage dress. Contrast that video with the later, more mature version and see which you prefer. Both are very good, I just preferred to post the one above. I think it’s because of the more simple staging, and perhaps the sound quality. That video is at;

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hnZTarK9Ohc

And, if anyone knows when and where the video at the top was recorded, please let me know!

"Telstar" with Kevin Spacey and Con O'Neill (2009)

Before the Beatles, or any of the bands comprising the “British Invasion”, there was a group of talented; although a bit strange; young guys working in London to create a new sound. Their dream was to put a “sound” to the idea of what was happening in space with satellites such as Telstar. They sought to give the public a unique new audio vision of the space race. These guys were way ahead of their time.

The sounds associated with David Bowie’s “Major Tom” record originated with these guys dropping marbles into toilets, and anything else it took to achieve their vision. Working against all accepted principles of recording, they actually succeeded in accomplishing their goal with the 1962 hit record named, aptly, “Telstar”. While the rest of the country was listening to Rory Storm and the Hurricanes (with Ringo Starr on drums), and bands such as Cliff Richards and the Shadows, or Gene Vincent; Joe Meek, played in this movie by Con O’Neill;  stayed true to his vision, leaving behind a string of hits which eventually culminated in his rapid decline.

An excellent performance by Kevin Spacey, who has never made a bad film; at least in my opinion; along with a tightly wound script, based on the whirlwind career of a largely forgotten genius; make this film an informative, as well as entertaining one to watch. And, you will be surprised, if you are over 55, that you may remember hearing some of this music as a kid. Also; note the unique guitar sound that has permeated all of the “Spaghetti Westerns”, as well as films such as  “Pulp Fiction”, and you will realize just how far ahead of the curve Joe Meek and his band were.

This is the original recording of “Telstar” from 1962, courtesy; as always; of You Tube;