Jeff Beck's solo debut is a musical exercise in controlled chaos, forming the link between British blues groups like The Yardbirds (Beck’s former band) and American proto-punks like MC5. “Shapes of Things” kicks things off, its center constantly shifting between Beck’s distorted guitar, Mickey Waller’s lurching drums, and Rod Stewart’s howling vocals. On “I Ain’t Superstitious” (a Willie Dixon tune), the rhythm section locks into a heavy, start-stop blues groove, which Beck uses as a launchpad to rocket his guitar solos into the sky.
Audio Extras
- “Beck’s Bolero” is his signature tune and lasting legacy.
- Beck, Bogert & Appice
- The Yardbirds
- Johnny Winter
- The Rolling Stones
- Jack Bruce & Robin Trower
- Roy Buchanan
- Traffic