Band of the Day (11.02.09): THE KINKS
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Artist:
Who?
One of the essential British Invasion bands, the Kinks made everything from garage rock to concept albums and modern folk. While they were popular during their heyday in the '60s, the band's stature has grown over time, with their songs finding a second life on quirky indie film soundtracks (Rushmore, Juno). The real reason for their longevity, though, is that the music still feels relevant and contemporary.
And I Care Because?
- They knew how to write a song. More than any other songwriter of his time, frontman Ray Davies stands up the era's heavyweights like John Lennon and Mick Jagger. With songs ranging from anthemic to sad and introspective, Davies could make art out of any subject matter.
- Their influence is still strong. Every subsequent generation of UK music has cited the Kinks as a major influence, especially Britpop acts like Blur and Oasis, and more recent bands like Franz Ferdinand. While the actual evidence comes from interview and covers, you can also hear it in their instrumentals and lyrical content.
- They're not looking to cash in. While many influential bands make a quick buck via reuinion tours, it looks as though the Kinks won't ever tarnish their legacy with an official full-band museum set. Member Dave Davies even says "It would be like a bad remake of Night of the Living Dead."
Hear their songs on MySpace, buy their albums, and watch this video of the band performing their classic "Waterloo Sunset" in 1972.
Comments (3)
Waterloo Sunset is one of maybe a half-dozen perfect songs from the whole rocknroll era. If they had never produced another track they would still be giants in my book. Though , as you so eloquently pointed out, they have a hefty & very worthy catalog. Has there ever been a more prescient satire of the whole "green" movement & it's adherents than "Apeman"?
Autumn Almanac. Picture Book. Dead End Street. Sunny Afternoon. Lola. Dedicated Follower of Fashion. Big Black Smoke. The list of amazing songs just goes on and on.
Thanks for the post. I discovered the Kinks through Wed Anderson's films. It's growing on me in a big way.