Roxy Music 1972-1974: A Glimpse into the Early Years Through Bob Carruthers' Documentary

I just watched this film, certainly thinking I knew a little bit about Roxy Music but as John Wingate (Jonathan Wingate worked as a spokesman for David Bowie and Sir Bob Geldof for many years before he became a music journalist and broadcaster) says in the film, most people know 4 or 5 songs like the back of their hand, the Best of Roxy Music or the tracks they constantly play on the radio and the rest gets missed completely.

It’s certainly true for me, I owned and listened to the Avalon album a lot in my teens and early twenties

Side 1

More Than This, The Space Between, Avalon, India: (instrumental) ,While My Heart Is Still Beating

Side 2

The Main Thing, Take a Chance with Me, To Turn You On, True to Life, Tara: (instrumental)

And of course if most people, me included were asked to come up with a Roxy Music track off the top of their head most would think think of More than This, Love is a Drug, Over You, Jealous Guy or Dance Away, maybe Slave To Love.

If you were a child of the 1980’s anyway.

Roxy Music, a band that dramatically reshaped the musical landscape of the 1970s, is revisited in Bob Carruthers’ compelling 2004 documentary, "Roxy Music 1972-1974." Available on YouTube, I've included the link in the snoop below, this film delves deep into the formative years of the band, providing fans and newcomers alike a rare look into their innovative beginnings. Central to this story is Bryan Ferry, whose working-class roots in Washington, County Durham, played a pivotal role in shaping his artistic vision.

The Journey of Bryan Ferry

Bryan Ferry's journey from a humble background to the frontman of one of the most stylistically forward-thinking bands of the 70s forms a critical narrative arc in the documentary. Born to a working-class family in the North East we share a good deal in common, Ferry's early life in the industrial landscapes of Northern England is portrayed not just as a biographical detail, but as a foundational element that influenced his unique approach to music and aesthetics. His transition from these modest beginnings to studying art at the University of Newcastle under Richard Hamilton, and eventually forming Roxy Music, is a testament to his drive and artistic ambition.

The Documentary's Rich Content

Carruthers’ documentary stands out due to its extensive use of rare archive footage and performances that chart the band's early days and their rapid evolution. These visuals not only serve as a nostalgic treat but also as a crucial historical record of the band's innovative use of music and theatrical stage performances. The film captures the essence of Roxy Music’s unique style, which combined glam rock with elements of modern art and fashion, setting them apart from their contemporaries.

Insights from Industry Experts

What enriches the documentary further are the insights from a host of music critics, fellow musicians, and producers. Notably, the film features commentary from Chris Turner, John Wingate, Mark Smith, and Les Davidson, each bringing their unique perspectives to the narrative.

When I watched the film which opens with bass Guitarist Mark Smith (The Waterboys) he played bass guitar with Roxy Music in 2003 narrating and he looks so young (born 1960) considering he was only 12 when the footage curated was recorded 1972 - 1974, I couldn’t believe I didn’t recognise a single track except maybe “Do The Strand” which I had heard before but never really listened to to the lyrics.

Chris Turner, a noted music producer, provides an in-depth look at the production techniques Roxy Music employed, shedding light on how their sound was crafted in the studio. His experience in the music industry gives him the authority to comment on the technical aspects of Roxy Music’s recordings, making his insights invaluable.

John Wingate, now a music journalist, but with massive experience in the genre offers context to the band's impact on the music and cultural scene of the 70s. His expertise helps viewers understand the broader cultural movements of the time and how Roxy Music both influenced and was influenced by these trends.

Mark Smith, not only a musician, also a respected figure in music criticism, adds to the documentary by discussing the band's legacy and their influence on future generations of musicians. His long-standing career provides a seasoned perspective on the lasting impact Roxy Music has had on the music industry. It was very interesting to see him in this context as he obviously knows Bryan Ferry very well.

Lastly, Les Davidson, a professional guitarist, speaks to the technical prowess and originality of Phil Manzanera and other band members. As a musician, Davidson offers a more technical analysis of the band’s style and musicianship, which will particularly appeal to viewers with an interest in the intricacies of musical performance.

"Roxy Music 1972-1974" by Bob Carruthers is more than just a documentary; it is a rich tapestry that combines rare archival footage with expert commentary to narrate the story of a band that was ahead of its time. For fans of Roxy Music, and for those who appreciate the fusion of art and pop culture, this documentary is a treasure trove of insights and entertainment, capturing a brief yet pivotal period in the band's history. Through this film, the legacy of Bryan Ferry and his colleagues is both preserved and celebrated, offering a window into the creative explosion that was Roxy Music in the early seventies.

This film is a whole other world and a deep dive into the origins of the band. Who knew there were 7 studio albums before Avalon.

Roxy Music: (1972)

For Your Pleasure: (1973)

Stranded: (1973)

Country Life: (1974)

Siren: (1975)

Manifesto: (1979)

Flesh + Blood: (1980)

Avalon: (1982)

If you think you are a big Roxy Music fan but like me thought they were eighties not seventies you need to watch this film. Not only do you get to see some really rare archive footage and performances likely you are going to hear tracks you never knew existed and find out not just how innovative Bryan Ferry himself was but also the genius of art haus producer Brian ENO and Pete Marannza too. The founding fathers of the whole Glam Rock movement. When I saw the

this footage it gave me a whole new perspective on who exactly Roxy Music were, and the massive body of work so far from the handful of songs we hear played repeatedly on the radio. So much “More Than This” I have just put A Song for Europe on my Spotify.