|
During this past vacation, the trends in the ordinary day-to-day marketing of rock and roll records seems to have been noticeably different. Department stores such as Korvette's in New York (who advertise as having the world's largest record department) have begun to carry substantial New Wave selections. While none of the major commercial chain operations (such as Sam Goody's or Cavages) are carrying import singles yet, they are stocking most American album releases (that is, those on an American label). Everything from the Ramones to the Sex Pistols to Blondie and countless others are available and visible to the ordinary music buyer.
Elvis Costello has a screaming sell-out in Buffalo, and The Jam packs in countless fans at the old Anderson theatre, the Yiddish Theatre of the twenties, on Second Avenue and Fourth Street. It is now CBGB's Theatre, the second child of Hilly Krystal, the first being a little underground club of the same initials located on the Bowery.
During this vacation, some of the year's best releases became available in the same quantity as the year's most commercial. As many copies of Costello's This Year's Model were in the rack as Foot Loose and Fancy Free. Patti Smith's single, "Because the Night," is the hottest FM single, with Nick Lowe's "Breakin Glass" not far behind. Besides Model, Smith's Easter, Lowe's Pure Pop for Now People (christened Jesus of Cool in England), consider Ian Dury's New Boots and Panties and Street Hassle from Lou Reed, The Hounds a new Tom Petty release planned for April 17, Stiffs Live featuring Lowe, Dury, Costello, Wreckless Eric and Larry Wallis ... and more and more and more.
Due to advertising considerations, space for Music in The Spectrum is often limited. We will continue to try our damnedest to bring you reviews and other helpful information about these important artists. Buffalo has gained a reputation as a haven for New Wave artists and that is something to be proud of.
Elvis Costello, who couldn't get a reaction up in Brockport or Albany, returns to Buffalo on April 25, accompanied by Lowe and Mink DeVille (whose Capitol album Cabretta was one of last year's best). There is a tremendous amount happening musically that needs recognition. Keep all eyes and ears trained on word of these artists. The music is damned good and loaded with an almost disproportionate amount of talent and life. We will do our job with the maximum effort, and hope that as an audience, you do yours.
|
