Artist: Dr. Feelgood Album: Down by the Jetty

Year: 1975
Duration: 41:00

A Critical Review of Dr. Feelgood's Album: Down by the Jetty

Dr. Feelgood is one of the most influential and successful bands in the British pub rock and British R&B music scene. Their debut album, Down by the Jetty, released in 1975, is considered a cult classic. The band's music was inspired by American blues and R&B, and this is reflected in the album's sound, but with a distinct energetic and raw British touch. In this critical review, we will dive deeper into the album's history, the genre of music it belongs to, the best songs of the album, the most innovative parts, and the criticism that this album has received.

The genre of music that Down by the Jetty belongs to is pub rock, which emerged in the UK in the early 1970s. Pub rock bands were known for their raw, lively, and energetic sound, which was influenced by American roots music, including R&B and rock and roll. Dr. Feelgood's music is considered a quintessential example of British pub rock. The band influenced a generation of British punk rockers, including The Clash and The Sex Pistols.

The album itself is an energetic and lively collection of songs that embodies the band's commitment to their roots music influences. From the opening track, She Does It Right, to the final track, The More I Give, the album features driving rhythms, bluesy guitar riffs, and Lee Brilleaux's growling vocals. The band's musicianship is impressive, and each song is tightly performed and evocative.

The standout tracks of the album include Roxette and Back In The Night, which were both released as singles and became hits in the UK. Roxette is a catchy, upbeat track with a memorable chorus, while Back In The Night is a driving rock number with an infectious riff and powerful vocals. Other notable tracks include I Don't Mind, which features a memorable harmonica line, and All Through The City, a song that captures the band's raw energy and powerful blues playing.

The most innovative parts of the album are the band's use of harmonica and the distinctive vocal style of Lee Brilleaux. Dr. Feelgood's harmonica playing was heavily influenced by the blues harmonica of American blues artists, and the harmonica solos on Down by the Jetty are some of the most memorable moments on the album. Lee Brilleaux's vocals are also a standout feature of the album. His rough, bluesy voice perfectly complements the band's raw and energetic sound.

The criticism that Down by the Jetty has received centers mainly around the production quality of the album. Some critics have argued that the album suffers from a lack of polish and that the raw sound of the album can be grating. However, others argue that this rawness is precisely what makes the album powerful and authentic.

Dr. Feelgood's Down by the Jetty is a classic example of British pub rock. The album is a powerful and energetic collection of songs with memorable harmonica playing and distinctive, rough-edged vocals. While the album may not be polished in its production, it is precisely this rawness that makes the album stand out and gives it authenticity. If you're a fan of blues and rock and roll music, Down by the Jetty is an album that you should definitely check out.

Dr. Feelgood's Down by the Jetty is a classic example of British pub rock. The album is a powerful and energetic collection of songs with memorable harmonica playing and distinctive, rough-edged vocals. While the album may not be polished in its production, it is precisely this rawness that makes the album stand out and gives it authenticity. If you're a fan of blues and rock and roll music, Down by the Jetty is an album that you should definitely check out.