DR FEELGOOD As It Happens Live English Pub Rock Album Cover Photos & Detailed Description 12" LP Vinyl Record #vinylrecords

Dr. Feelgood - As It Happens (Live): Capturing the Raw Energy of Pub Rock

Album Description:

In the heart of the 1970s British pub rock scene, Dr. Feelgood's "As It Happens (Live)" stands as a testament to the raw energy and unbridled passion that defined the era. Released in 1979, this double live album encapsulates the band's electrifying performances and their unwavering commitment to their signature rhythm and blues-infused sound.

The mid-1970s marked a significant shift in the British music landscape. The excesses of glam rock and progressive rock were giving way to a back-to-basics approach that emphasized raw talent and authentic expression. Pub rock, with its stripped-down sound and emphasis on live performance, became the breeding ground for a new generation of bands, including Dr. Feelgood.

"As It Happens (Live)" captures the essence of Dr. Feelgood's live shows, showcasing their tight musicianship, charismatic stage presence, and unwavering connection with their audience. The album features a mix of original songs and covers, spanning their early career and offering a glimpse into their diverse influences.

The album's musical style is firmly rooted in rhythm and blues, with elements of rock and roll and pub rock thrown into the mix. Lee Brilleaux's gritty vocals, Wilko Johnson's distinctive choppy guitar riffs, and the tight rhythm section of John B. Sparks and The Big Figure create a sound that is both raw and infectious.

While "As It Happens (Live)" was met with critical acclaim and commercial success, it was not without controversy. Some critics argued that the album's sound was too raw and unpolished, while others praised its authenticity and energy. Regardless of differing opinions, the album solidified Dr. Feelgood's reputation as one of the leading lights of the pub rock scene.

The album was produced by the band themselves, along with Vic Maile, an experienced engineer and producer known for his work with artists like Jimi Hendrix and Led Zeppelin. The recording took place at various venues across the UK, including the Pavilion in Hemel Hempstead and Crocs in Rayleigh, Essex.

One interesting trivia about the album is the inclusion of the song "Milk and Alcohol," which became one of Dr. Feelgood's biggest hits. The song's catchy riff and energetic performance made it a staple of their live shows and a favorite among fans.

The Origins of Dr. Feelgood's "Milk and Alcohol": A Tale of Inspiration and Transformation

Song Description:

Dr. Feelgood's "Milk and Alcohol," released in 1979, is a raw and energetic pub rock anthem that has become a staple of the band's live shows and a beloved classic among fans. But the origins of this iconic song lie in a curious blend of personal experiences and musical inspirations.

The song was co-written by Nick Lowe, a renowned songwriter and producer, and Gypie Mayo, Dr. Feelgood's guitarist at the time. Lowe drew inspiration from his own experiences in the 1970s, where he witnessed blues legend John Lee Hooker performing while seemingly under the influence of Kahlua and milk. This observation, coupled with Hooker's own lyrics mentioning "milk, cream and alcohol," sparked the idea for the song.

Lowe initially penned the lyrics, focusing on the theme of a performer who is past their prime yet still trying to maintain their energy through a combination of milk and alcohol. The lyrics are filled with vivid imagery and a sense of disillusionment, capturing the harsh realities of the music industry.

However, it was Gypie Mayo who truly transformed the song into the rock anthem it is today. Mayo's heavy riffs and energetic guitar work added a new dimension to the track, injecting it with a raw power and urgency that perfectly complemented Lowe's lyrics.

The song's transformation didn't stop there. When Dr. Feelgood recorded "Milk and Alcohol," they infused it with their signature pub rock sound, characterized by Lee Brilleaux's gritty vocals and the band's tight, energetic performance. The result was a song that was both catchy and hard-hitting, a perfect representation of the band's raw talent and musical vision.

Watch Dr Hook performing Milk and Alcohol:

DR FEELGOOD - As It Happens Live High Resolution & Quality Photos

Front Cover Photo Of DR FEELGOOD - As It Happens Live

Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone )