The Rezillos - Can’t Stand The Rezillos
If it’s about music in the 1970s then there has to be a punk album included. This one by The Rezillos is fun, pacy, and clever. That's three words that don’t fit with many punk bands but are a perfect fit for this Edinburgh band and their album. Even the title Can’t Stand The Rezillos is tongue firmly in cheek.
The stand-out track was the single “Top Of The Pops” which appeared in the top UK BBC TV pop show at that time. Which the band duly did, helping the record reach number 17. It's a good example of the style of the album and a bright, energetic song too.
After the album's release, a tour came to an abrupt and early end when singer Fay Fife hit a voice problem. The band split up shortly afterward in November 1978 but agreed to reform briefly for one final gig that December. The gig was recorded for a live second album. If we ignore a compilation album and a new album years later in 2015 after more reforming, Can’t Stand The Rezillos is pretty much it all from the band in that punk late 1970s phase.
The Rezillos covered some 1960s songs in the album including a version of beat classic “Glad All Over” originally by the Dave Clark Five and the Merseybeat favourite from Gerry and the Pacemakers, “I Like It”. There was also what sounds much more like a traditional punk song "Somebody's Gonna Get Their Head Kicked in Tonite". That too was a cover of a 1969 track by Earl Vince and The Valiants, who were actually Fleetwood Mac under another name.
Thankfully it’s a joy and one to treasure. Less political angst and rage than typical punk records, it's a bit more mainstream and lighter, but still with a strong punk flavour. There is perhaps a similarity to the style of the B52s with a 50s and 60s rock and roll vibe. If you have missed this one, it’s worth your time for a play.