Small Faces' Decca Singles 1965-1967: A Journey Through the Band's Early Years
The Small Faces' Decca Singles 1965-1967 box set is a treasure trove for fans of the band's early work. It's not just a collection of songs, but a window into the band's dynamic and often tumultuous relationship with their manager, Don Arden, and their label, Decca. The box set features eight seven-inch singles, pressed to vinyl from the master tapes, and includes rare Dutch picture sleeves and other odds and ends from the band's archive.
What makes this box set particularly fascinating is the insight it provides into the band's creative process and their struggle for artistic control. The band's early singles, such as 'Whatcha Gonna Do About It' and 'I Got Mine', showcase their R&B and mod influences, while also highlighting their growing desire for independence. The release of 'Sha-La-La-La Lee' and 'Hey Girl' with credit given to the band's writers, Steve Marriott and Ronnie Lane, was a significant step towards this goal.
One of the most interesting aspects of this box set is the band's relationship with their manager, Don Arden. The band's desire to break free from Arden's control is evident in their decision to move to Immediate Records and their refusal to promote certain singles, such as 'I Can't Make'. The box set also includes singles released without the band's permission, such as 'Patterns' and 'E Too D', which further highlights the tension between the band and their manager.
From my perspective, what makes this box set truly special is the way it captures the band's early struggles and their journey towards independence. It's a testament to the band's resilience and their commitment to their art. The box set is a must-have for fans of the Small Faces and anyone interested in the history of British rock music.
In my opinion, the Small Faces' Decca Singles 1965-1967 box set is a fascinating glimpse into the band's early years and their struggle for artistic control. It's a must-have for fans of the band and anyone interested in the history of British rock music. The box set is a testament to the band's resilience and their commitment to their art, and it's a pleasure to hear their early singles in such high quality.
