Dr Feelgood
Down By The Jetty

Release Date: 1975 | Tracklist

Dr Feelgood were a rhythm and blues outfit that achieved moderate commercial success in the UK during the 1970's. Their 1979 hit 'Milk and Alcohol' is probably their most famous song but prior to this the mark one incarnation featuring guitarist Wilko Johnson had churned out some pretty fine hard edged pub rock albums and had been a huge influence on British rock music. 'Down By The Jetty' is their debut release and undoubtedly captures some of the energy that made them such a celebrated live act.

A lot of people who have never heard of Wilko Johnson have probably seem him starring as Ser Ilyn Payne in HBO's 'Game of Thrones' adaptation. In that series he plays a big guy with a big sword that lops people's heads off. Since Wilko was renowned for his cutting rhythm guitar style this seems rather apt. He is actually one of the forgotten greats. The best guitar players are revered for several reasons including their technical ability and the feel and phrasing in their playing. However, the real greats are the ones who have developed such an inimitable style that you immediately know who is playing from hearing a piece of their music. David Gilmour with his feel, tone and incredible control is instantly recognisable, as are the likes of Hendrix, Lifeson and Beck. So is Wilko Johnson with his highly percussive style and the way he used his pickless right hand to interweave solos and licks alongside his jagged rhythms. Also known at the time for his robotic on stage persona and strange fashion sense Wilko was undoubtedly the creative force behind the early incarnation of the band due to being the primary songwriter. The co-founder member alongside Wilko was charismatic lead singer Lee Brilleaux and his nicotine growl and inspired harmonica work also helped in giving the group it's distinctive sound. Highlights on here include the relentless 'Roxette' with it's spiky riff and manic harmonica solo and 'All Through The City' which features Wilko in fine form whacking out solos and licks while still maintaining a thick rhythm sound.

The ideals of bands such as Dr Feelgood and Eddie & The Hot Rods, eschewing the prog and glam scene of the time and getting back-to-basics, were a catalyst for the punk rock movement of the late 70's. The likes of The Ramones and Paul Weller have acknowledged the influence of this album and even if you are not an R&B fan it's worth a spin just to see why.

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