#1 Record

by Big Star

Overview

The problem with coming in late on an artwork lauded as "influential" is that you've probably encountered the work it influenced first, so its truly innovative qualities are lost. Thus, if you are hearing Big Star's debut album for the first time decades after its release (as, inevitably, most people must), you may be reminded of Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers or R.E.M., who came after -- that is, if you don't think of the Byrds and the Beatles circa 1965. What was remarkable about #1 Record in 1972 was that nobody except Big Star (and maybe Badfinger and the Raspberries) wanted to sound like this -- simple, light pop with sweet harmonies and jangly guitars. Since then, dozens of bands have rediscovered those pleasures. But in a way, that's an advantage because, whatever freshness is lost across the years, Big Star's craft is only confirmed. These are sturdy songs, feelingly performed, and once you get beyond the style to the content, you'll still be impressed. ~ William Ruhlmann

Product Details

Release Date:	09/15/2009
Label:	Concord / Universal Distribution
UPC:	0888072315730

Tracks

1. Feel
2. The Ballad of el Goodo
3. In the Street
4. Thirteen
5. Don't Lie to Me
6. The India Song
7. When My Baby's Beside Me
8. My Life Is Right
9. Give Me Another Chance
10. Try Again
11. Watch the Sunrise
12. St 110/6

Album Credits

Performance Credits

Big Star   Primary Artist
Terry Manning   Vocals (Background),Piano (Electric)
Andy Hummel   Guitar,Piano,Bass,Vocals,Guitar (Bass)
Alex Chilton   Vocals,Guitar
Jody Stephens   Vocals,Drums
Chris Bell   Vocals,Guitar

Technical Credits

Alex Chilton   Composer
John Fry   Executive Producer,Producer
Chris Bell   Composer
Tom Eubanks   Composer
Andy Hummel   Composer