Following the release of their latest single 'Another Time', Flex caught up with London-based rock band X-Ray Love. Known for their eclectic gritty rock / post-punk sound the band has been making waves in London's rock scene since their relocation from NYC. If you enjoy X-Ray Love's picks be sure to check out 'Another Time' at the end of the article.
1. Ella’s Pick (frontwoman, singer, guitarist, songwriter): Betty Davis - They Say I’m Different
I wanted to find a live performance of this but she was pretty censored. And I could not. If anyone has found one from back in her day let me know. I love this song for the attitude, it is just so her and I don’t think enough people know about her. Betty was a rebel and a fashion power house. She influenced the likes of Miles Davis (who she also married) and Jimi Hendrix and this track for me on Vinyl is a dream.
2. Mark’s Pick (Lead Guitar, backing vocals): Iggy Pop – Rock and Roll Party
I selected this live version as it’s one of my favourite all time performances. I love the way its shot with audience crammed around the stage and Iggy prancing around in a motorcycle jacket, stockings & heels not batting an eyelid as if it’s perfectly normal. I could've chosen a plethora of tracks but decided on this one as I think it's unfairly overlooked in contrast to the "cooler" Bowie related tracks or those from The Stooges.
3. Chris’ pick (Bass): Shocking Blue – Send Me a Postcard
A song I can listen to and enjoy whatever mood I'm in. Everything about it is perfect, from the strident vocals and fuzz guitar to the frantic organ solo near the end. It's garage rock and psychedelia shot through with a European sensibility, and surprisingly intricate with each instrument doing interesting things.
4. Rick’s pick (Drummer): The Who - The Real Me
Keith Moon’s adrenaline is on full display here. He fills in the space perfectly between Pete’s rather sparse guitar, and John’s extremely melodic bass, which perfectly backs up Roger’s words and delivery. He is one of my favourite drummers, for his ability to be in the pocket and provide unusual but fitting grooves. I love how the rhythm section in The Who holds it down and I’m inspired to work on ways to do that with Chris - my favourite bass player I’ve ever had the pleasure of playing with.
5. Ella’s Pick (frontwoman, singer, guitarist, songwriter): Lou Reed Perfect Day.
Truth is the Transformer album version is my fave. But this song is just so beautiful and it reminds of New York. There is something extra for me when he sings you’re gonna reap just what you sow. Just changing it slightly from the biblical it somehow resonates more with me when he sings this. I like this live version coz it looks so great with that vintage amp and how he is sitting and delivering so intimately for such a large crowd; like he shrunk it all down. I love Lou.
Listen to X-Ray Love 'Another Time'
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