We continue to remember the best rock operas in history: selection, performers, interesting facts
Содержание
In today's article, we continue our look at the legendary rock operas in the history of the genre - this is the second part of our vision, largely based on the readers' opinion. So: we've already had time to talk about Pink Floyd's iconic "The Wall", The Who's heartbreaking "Tommy", the legendary creation of two young guys called "Jesus Christ Superstar" and some other gems. All of them are classics, and we are sure their status will be preserved for many, many years to come... Who are we going to talk about today?
Before we get to the list, we'd like to remind you that rock operaFirst and foremost, it is an album. It's a unique form of storytelling built on music - it's the sound that plays a critical role here. And then there are tours, films and so on and so forth (which, as a rule, comes after the global success of the record). So we suggest you to pay special attention not only to the lyrical message, the plot, but also to the sound, because sometimes it can tell much more than the lyrics...
The Who - "Quadrophenia" (1973)
Of course, "Tommy." remains the world's number one in listening and overall popularity. But released a few years later. "Quadrophenia." can also lay claim to the title of legendary rock opera - at least in the career of The Who. The only album written entirely Pete Townsend, "Quadrophenia" is a much more focused story that seems more relevant to the British youth culture of the time, as it follows the Jimmy, a fashionista and party boy who struggles with his personalities (each of the 4 is represented by a member of The Who).
A film was also made based on Quadrophenia, and it was the debut for the Sting at the cinema!
The Pretty Things - "S.F. Sorrow" (1968)
"S.F. Sorrow." groups The Pretty Things is considered one of the first rock operas. Although it never reached the same critical and commercial heights as The Who's recordings, it is an album that is definitely worth a listen. The story follows the main character Sebastian F. Grief/Sadness (Sorrow) through birth, love, military service and its aftermath, tireless work in the "Misery Factory" and ultimately old age and loneliness. The liner notes for this psychedelic LP included short chapters accompanying the narrative of the songs that the British musician's Arthur Brown read aloud between tracks during the band's early shows.
Alas, EMI would not release the record in the US, and it was eventually bought by the Motown Records label in 1969, but by then The Who had already released the record "Tommy.". It was too late, and a substantial part of the potential success was lost.....
"In a way it died at birth. This album was never properly released...", the members of The Pretty Things later remarked.
David Bowie - "The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars" (1972).
It's an album about Martian Ziggy Stardustwho comes to Earth to free all humans from their stupidity, and to give them hope. Ziggy is a typical idealistic rock star: he is wild and disorderly, but still carries a message of peace and love. In the end, however, his own irresponsibility, excessive substance use, and overreliance on love dramas destroy his...
In many previous albums. David Bowie attracted to sci-fi themes, but that's where he put his best foot forward, dressing up as "alien Ziggy" on tour.
Genesis - "The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway" (1974)
Genesis' latest album featuring their flautist extraordinaire Peter Gabriel, "The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway." presents a surprising story utilising abstract narrative and recurring themes from Greek folklore. The album presents a surreal storyline in which a juvenile delinquent descends underground to face strange creatures and frightening dangers in a quest to save his brother John.
This rock opera demonstrates Genesis Peak: the lyrics and music are extremely complex and beautiful. This is their most notable and best selling release to date, and yet its sound has nothing in common with any of their other albums.
Queensrÿche - "Operation: Mindcrime" (1988)
Roaring "Operation: Mindcrime" touches on political themes, mainly attacking the Ronald Reagan era and shedding light on the corruption of many contemporary leaders. Critics regularly emphasise that it is the most breakthrough work of his career Queensrÿche. This time the band decided to get rid of the meaningless lyrics and make more meaningful songs. And they definitely succeeded.
The story detailed in the album follows a man disillusioned with modern culture. He intends to fight the crooks who call themselves leaders by any means necessary - even if he has to shed blood... The rock opera also features big orchestra led by a Hollywood composer by Michael Kamen, which further embellishes the musical and partly crime drama....
