Encyclopedia of Modern
Pop
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Encyclopedia of Modern
Pop
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BIG STAR | |
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Venerated by rock fans who otherwise have no use for power pop, Big Star's influence far outstrips its commercial clout. #1 Record (Ardent, 1972) is largely a democratic affair, with Chris Bell (deceased 1978) and Alex Chilton (formerly with the Box Tops) exploring their fascination with mid-60s Beatles, Kinks, and Byrds. Bell quit after the album sank without a trace, leaving Chilton the opportunity to explore his unique Anglo pop vision. More twisted and personal than #1 Record, Radio City (Ardent, 1974) is the group's power pop masterpiece, with a cornucopia of should've been hits. 1978's 3rd/Sister Lovers (most recently on Rykodisc) is usually lauded as the greatest of Big Star's oeuvre. As a work of harrowing emotionality, it is groundbreaking. But for power pop, the first two releases are the ones to get. --Rick Gregory | |
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