Review
Get ready to revel in the glory of "Transformer", the 1972 game-changer that catapulted Lou Reed into the stratosphere of rock stardom. Produced by the iconic duo of David Bowie and Mick Ronson, this album dropped like a bombshell in the midst of the glam rock explosion, with Reed's unique blend of cabaret, doo-wop, and jazz flavours exploding against the vibrant, often dark backdrop of New York City.
The playlist is a treasure trove of iconic tracks, including "Walk on the Wild Side", "Satellite of Love", "Perfect Day", and "Vicious". These genre-bending anthems showcased Reed's enviable storytelling prowess and poetic lyrics, fearlessly tackling themes of androgyny, sexuality, and urban living that were scandalous at the time.
The Bowie-Ronson production magic added a slick, glossy finish to Reed's music, a marked departure from the raw, avant-garde sound of his Velvet Underground days. Love it or hate it, this slick update helped "Transformer" shake off its underground roots and claim its rightful place among the rock elite. The album's groundbreaking influence still reverberates today, a beacon of hope for pioneering souls pushing the boundaries of identity and artistic expression. - Leo
