Big Star, Keep An Eye On The Sky

Disc One

“Every Day As We Grow Closer” is a modern classic with ivories tickled. The piano sails effortlessly over a solid bass line and synth comes in, without a bit of coldness. This track remains absolutely organic.

If you are asked what Big Star sounds like, you can point the curious in the direction of “Feel,” included on Disc One of this collection. I feel like I’m dyin’/never gonna live again/you just ain’t been trying/it’s gettin’ very near the end. We’ve all been there, but this has soaring guitar, ridiculously catchy hooks, and drum rolls and fills that ease the pain of heartbreak. The vocal inflection works perfectly and does not come off as cheesy. Nobody does it like Big Star.

“Try Again” was one of the first songs Bell and Chilton wrote together. It’s a simple tale of a singer/songwriter who is exasperated and his explanation of his desire to be understood, one with which we can all identify. You can hear the magic beginning to form at this early stage. He’ll try again, and so will we if we put this on repeat.

“In the Street” has a couple of versions included. Yes, this was covered by Cheap Trick as the theme song of That 70s Show, and was possibly the inspiration for the genius film Dazed and Confused as well. At least, I’ve always dreamed it was so.

“Thirteen” features the classic lines, won’t you let me walk you home from school/won’t you let me meet you at the pool/maybe Friday I can get tickets for the dance/and I’ll take you. It was a simpler time, when “spin the bottle” and “seven minutes in heaven” reigned supreme.

“Don’t Lie To Me” is a rollicking, almost southern fried blues rocker. Don’t lie to me/don’t push me ’round/don’t cross me babe. We wouldn’t dream of it. Now, launch into a blues guitar solo.

“Watch the Sunrise” is an ode to a sunny day, as simple as that, but it joins us all in our humanity. That’s hard to do successfully. And when it’s done with music, it’s absolutely magical. Plus there are hand claps, always a welcome bonus.

“The India Song” is a bit Byrds, and a bit Donovan (it even begins a little like “Jennifer Juniper”). It has catchy hooks and there are three versions included here. Chris Bell wants to go to India and write about what sickens his heart, and we want him to

“When My Baby’s Beside Me” is a tambourine-infused pop confection/love song with gooey goodness including the line, when my baby’s beside me I don’t worry. And you sure believe it.

The demo version of “Got Kinda Lost” is also included, and after an inspired performance, the producer casually remarks, “It’ll do.” Indeed it will.

Click to read more about. . .

Disc One
Disc Two
Disc Three
Disc Four

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