The Solo. A single performer showing off his/her musical talent and skill. Adding an interesting, alternative part to a song’s structure and, potentially, giving the audience a passage of music unlike what the rest of the song entailed.

Whether it’s a short-but-sweet 8 bars or an extended showcase that takes the listener on a long journey, a lot can be said in a short space of time with a talented human operating their instrument at the highest level.

In these new topical discussion episodes, we take a look at some of Rock ‘N’ Roll’s most iconic virtuosic moments and discuss what makes them so good, how significant they were and what legacy they left.

In this episode:

1. Sultans Of Swing (Mark Knopfler) - Alchemy: Dire Straits Live - Dire Straits (1984)
2. Heartbreaker (Jimmy Page) - Led Zeppelin II - Led Zeppelin (1969)
3. The End (Ringo Starr) - Abbey Road - The Beatles (1969)

Episode Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7elrTXqh3w0CqQ8qXDtZVh?si=3c9d085d1d4d48e3

• 'The End' drum solo, Drum Duet - Gregg Bissonette and Chris Whitten.

LONG LIVE ROCK ‘N’ ROLL

Following the introduction of Bruce Dickinson and his success on ‘Number Of The Beast’ and ‘Piece Of Mind’, Iron Maiden were the ones to watch in the early 80s. Progressing and developing Heavy Metal from its British roots in the 70s into the newly established New Wave Of British Heavy Metal that the likes of Maiden, Saxon and Angel Witch were pioneering.

In 1984, they presented us with an album boasting the same musical prowess as their previous albums, but with a maturity in the thematic concept and a developed complexity in their songwriting, arrangements and musicianship. ‘Powerslave’ remains a cornerstone of Iron’s Maiden discography and Heavy Metal in general - blending intricate musicianship, fast-tempo songs and captivating storytelling with themes of ancient Egypt, mythology and historical narratives!

Episode 71 Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6wYpgP4qxGBl4lLE2tEEIt?si=c77039371cd14108

LONG LIVE ROCK ‘N’ ROLL

'21st Century Progressive Band'

In 1969, a new Progressive Rock band stormed onto the scene. King Crimson made several appearances throughout the year and exposed themselves to large, attentive and accepting audiences with big, impactful live shows.

Following this success came an album that would pioneer, innovate and lay down the foundations for Progressive Rock. ‘In The Court Of The Crimson King’ showed to the world exactly what this fresh, new Progressive Rock was and how you could take all the external elements and amalgamate them into a singular, connected, seamless piece of art.

Is ‘In The Court Of The Crimson King’ the definitive Prog Rock album? We discuss!

Episode Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2vAkHj1QJRrTg76aqA3TiI?si=7b47f002f8f84f17

LONG LIVE ROCK ‘N’ ROLL