Artist: Big Star Album: Radio City

Year: 1974
Duration: 36:06

Radio City by Big Star - A Critic's Review of One of the Greatest Albums of Its Time

If there is one album that epitomizes the best of the power-pop genre, it would be Radio City by Big Star. Formed in Memphis in 1971, Big Star was a band that never achieved commercial success but gained a cult following in the music industry and influenced numerous musicians who followed. Radio City, their second album, was a critical success and is now considered to be one of the greatest albums of all time. So, let’s take a closer look at this masterpiece and consider what makes it stand out in the world of rock music.

The Music Genre of the Album:

Released in 1974, Radio City is a mix of guitar-driven rock and catchy power-pop with a heavy dose of melancholy. It is regarded as one of the most influential albums of the 1970s because of its unique blend of power pop, rock, and soulful ballads that showcase the band's underlying musical talent.

The Best Songs of the Album:

The album is filled with memorable tracks, but it's the first four that are the most recognizable with cult classic September Gurls leading the way. Back of a Car is a beautiful, romantic ballad with a touch of jangly guitar, while “Life Is White” is a powerful ballad with a haunting melody. “Way Out West” and Daisy Glaze are up-tempo rockers that showcase the band's formidable instrumental skills.

The Most Innovative Parts:

One of the most innovative aspects of Radio City is Alex Chilton’s guitar playing which is among the best in rock history. His unique style of mixing rhythm and lead breaks made him one of the most creative guitarists of the time. The album was also produced with emphasis on the vocal harmonies, creating a unique texture that is still emulated by modern bands today.

A Critic to the Album:

A Critic to the Album:

Some critics have pointed out that the album has flaws, and it's true that some of the tracks do not leave a lasting impression. The band's inexperience at the time means the sound quality is not always perfect, and this detracts from the album's overall value to some. Nevertheless, Radio City remains an essential listen for anyone interested in the power pop or indie rock genres.
Radio City by Big Star is an album that has stood the test of time and holds a special place in the hearts of music fans, musicians, and critics alike. The album provides an insight into the talent and artistic capabilities of the band and serves as an example of how innovative music can be. Its blend of rock, power pop, and soulful ballads have proved influential on countless musicians, and its significance has only grown with the passing years. If you haven't listened to Radio City, then there is no better time than now to discover this gem.