Podcast Title: The 500 with Josh Adam Meyers
Episode: 161 - T. Rex - Electric Warrior
Host: Josh Adam Meyers
Guest: Luke Spiller (The Struts)
Release Date: May 14, 2025

Introduction

In Episode 161 of The 500 with Josh Adam Meyers, host Josh Adam Meyers, along with DJ Morty Coyle and comedian Evan, delve into Rolling Stone Magazine’s ranking of T. Rex’s seminal album, Electric Warrior, positioned at number 161 out of 500. Joining the discussion is Luke Spiller from The Struts, bringing a fresh perspective to this iconic record.

Background and Context

The conversation kicks off with an enthusiastic introduction of Luke Spiller, highlighting his performances at notable venues like the Beacon Theater's Love Rocks series. DJ Morty Coyle sets the stage by referencing the podcast's current exploration of T. Rex’s Electric Warrior and its significance in the glam rock movement.

Quote:
DJ Morty Coyle [02:36]: "We're going through stuff. We're just having fun."

Evolution of Mark Bolan and T. Rex

Mark Bolan’s transformation from the acoustic duo Tyrannosaurus Rex to the electrified T. Rex is a central theme. Luke Spiller shares his personal journey of discovering T. Rex through the film Billy Elliot, which reignited his appreciation for Bolan's music.

Quote:
Mark Bolan [07:32]: "I was one of the sort of like kids that sort of discovered those bands and it became like my own kind of thing because it wasn't around, you know, it wasn't."

Josh Adam Meyers provides a detailed narrative of Bolan's early career, emphasizing his shift from acoustic to electric instrumentation under the guidance of producer Tony Visconti. This transition was pivotal in defining the sound that would catapult T. Rex to fame.

Quote:
Josh Adam Myers [10:15]: "Basically, Tony Visconti is tired of writing Tyrannosaurus Rex. He just goes, T Rex, and that's when Mark sees it and decides to form a full band."

Musical Analysis of Electric Warrior

The discussion delves into specific tracks from Electric Warrior, with a detailed analysis of opening songs like "Mambo Son" and hits such as "Get It On" (retitled "Bang a Gong (Get It On)" for the U.S. release). The hosts and Luke explore the album's fusion of bluesy boogie guitar, sultry vocals, and innovative production techniques that set it apart from contemporaries.

Quote:
Mark Bolan [25:33]: "It's about reincarnation and living a full life. And got both of these when it was featured as the opening song to the wonderful 2001 film Billy Elliot."

Cultural Impact and Legacy

A significant portion of the conversation addresses the album's impact on British music and its enduring legacy. They compare Mark Bolan’s influence on artists like David Bowie and later generations of British rock bands, noting how Electric Warrior paved the way for glam rock and influenced the Britpop movement.

Quote:
Mark Bolan [41:23]: "If you're into mystical rock and roll with a filthy, bluesy, sexy rhythm to it, this is the album for you."

Personal Reflections and Anecdotes

Luke Spiller shares personal anecdotes about his experiences with Electric Warrior, including attending live performances and the album's influence on his own music with The Struts. The hosts reflect on the challenges T. Rex faced in breaking into the American market and the subsequent overshadowing by contemporaries like David Bowie.

Quote:
Mark Bolan [56:47]: "I think Mark was probably ahead of the curve of what was. What the Americans were ready for."

Technical Insight: Recording Techniques

The discussion touches on T. Rex’s unique recording techniques, such as starting songs with acoustic guide tracks before layering drums and electric guitars. This method created a distinctive feel that contributed to the album's dynamic sound.

Quote:
Mark Bolan [23:45]: "They would literally have marked with his acoustic guitar in his own time and tempo. And then they would build on top of this guide track."

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

As the episode concludes, the hosts summarize the enduring appeal of Electric Warrior, emphasizing its blend of poetic lyrics, innovative production, and charismatic performance. They encourage listeners to explore the album’s timeless tracks and recognize Mark Bolan’s pivotal role in shaping the landscape of British rock.

Quote:
Mark Bolan [66:36]: "I would say if you're into mystical rock and roll with a filthy, bluesy, sexy rhythm to it, this is the album for you."

Additional Information

• Upcoming Projects: Luke Spiller announces his debut solo album, Love Will Probably Kill Me Before Cigarettes and Wine, and The Struts’ ten-year anniversary tour.
• Documentary Mention: A new documentary film, Angel Headed Hipster: The Songs of Mark Bolan and T. Rex, is set to release in July, offering deeper insights into Bolan’s legacy.

Notable Quotes Summary

• DJ Morty Coyle [02:36]: "We're going through stuff. We're just having fun."
• Mark Bolan [07:32]: "I was one of the sort of like kids that sort of discovered those bands..."
• Josh Adam Myers [10:15]: "Basically, Tony Visconti is tired of writing Tyrannosaurus Rex..."
• Mark Bolan [25:33]: "It's about reincarnation and living a full life..."
• Mark Bolan [41:23]: "If you're into mystical rock and roll..."
• Mark Bolan [56:47]: "I think Mark was probably ahead of the curve..."
• Mark Bolan [23:45]: "They would literally have marked with his acoustic guitar..."
• Mark Bolan [66:36]: "If you're into mystical rock and roll with a filthy, bluesy, sexy rhythm to it, this is the album for you."

This summary encapsulates the rich discussions and insights shared in Episode 161, providing both historical context and personal reflections on T. Rex's Electric Warrior. For those new to the podcast or the band, this episode offers a comprehensive exploration of one of rock’s most influential albums.