Day 30 of the 31 in 31 features a review of an album released in 2019, but that shouldn't hold us back,, because as we are about to enter another Covid lockdown, what is needed is a Glam Rock album. I'm often told that I live in 1974, despite all the new stuff here, well this album makes it feel like it really is 1974.
Velvet Vortex is the second album from Los Angeles quartet, Hammered Satin. However, this is totally UK Glam Rock of 1973 and 1974. I'm told by many US music fans that Glam Rock (or Glitter as they called it) didn't make that much of a splash in the States. It certainly seems to have influenced later generations.
This could be a Chinn and Chapman album. All the pre-requisites of that era are present. Big Chords, hand claps, call and response and chants. If the songs remind you of others from the time, that's because they sound just like them in a Rutles sort of way.
The Title Track is like The Glitter Band backing Marc Bolan. Dynamite has a chorus as catchy as the Mud Song, but isn't a cover of the Chinnichap effort. Satin Stomp could be Kenny and there are hints of lesser known Glam bands, such as Chicory Tip and Hello.
As well as the songs being set in the period, the lyrics are too. double entendres and key phrases of the time. Although the album is very very Glitter Band, the playing offers much more than the originals necessarily provided.
There are some fine Guitar Solos and the final song, Starchild is a crackerjack effort, it still sounds dated, but is not like anything else on show. It could easily appear on one of the later 70's Pop Rock albums. Velvet Vortex is great fun. it may take you back to simpler times, but that's no bad thing in 2020.
You can listen to and buy the album here.
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