Marc Bolan was not just a musician, he was a phenomenon. In the electric haze of the ’70s, he emerged as the glittering comet of glam rock, leaving a trail of stardust in his wake. Bolan’s artistry was an intoxicating cocktail of rock ‘n’ roll tenacity and dreamy, otherworldly charm. Every guitar riff, every sultry lyric, felt like an invitation to a universe where fantasy and reality beautifully intertwined.
The groundbreaking album Electric Warrior by T. Rex wasn’t just my introduction to their unique sound, it was also the first album I ever purchased with my own money at the tender age of 10. I can still vividly recall the day “Bang a Gong (Get it on)” resonated from my local rock radio in St. Louis, Missouri. Its alluring call drew me irresistibly into Bolan’s mesmerizing world. And while the cassette tape has since worn, its label faded from non-stop play, the thrill of that initial discovery and pride of ownership endures.
Bolan’s untimely departure from this world left a void, but his melodies, his spirit, and his influence have proven indelible. Although I never had the privilege of seeing Bolan perform live, there was no way I would miss the 45th-anniversary concert commemorating his legacy. Held at the Shepherd’s Bush Empire in London last week, the event boasted a stellar lineup: T. Rextasy, The Dirty Pretty Strings directed by Tony Visconti, Neal X, Dana Gillespie, Richard Barone, Andy Ellison, Boz Boorer, and the ever-dynamic Marc Almond.
The evening unfolded masterfully. Marc Almond took the helm as the evening’s magnetic MC, introducing T. Rex’s legendary producer Tony Visconti and the Dirty Pretty Strings, who added a depth of orchestral resonance to the performances. T.Rextasy, hailed as the ultimate tribute to Bolan, not only opened the show but seamlessly wove their presence throughout the evening as the house band. Under the dynamic leadership of Danielz, they resurrected Bolan’s mystique with electrifying finesse. Their renditions of classics such as “Jeepster” and “I Love to Boogie” stood as a testament to their unparalleled homage to the music legend.
Neal X, recognized for his guitar contributions with Sigue Sigue Sputnik, Glen Matlock, and as a trusted collaborator with Marc Almond, graced the stage with his distinctive Gibson hybrid guitar. As a mainstay throughout the evening, his influence was unmistakable. His heartfelt rendition of “Beltane Walk,” which merged elements of Chris Isaak’s style with Bolan’s original charm, truly highlighted his profound admiration for Bolan.
Dana Gillespie, with her storied ties to British music greats like David Bowie, joined Marc Almond for a poignant rendition of “Life’s A Gas.” Their harmonies evoked memories connecting Bolan’s era to the present. As their voices merged, there was a shared sense of reverence in the air.
The evening’s crescendo arrived with every artist returning to the stage, uniting for powerful versions of “Get it On” and “Hot Love.” This collective tribute showcased Bolan’s enduring influence, leaving the audience awash in applause and deep appreciation for the legacy of Marc Bolan and T. Rex.
In sync with this event is the release of the documentary, Angelheaded Hipster, dedicated to Marc Bolan and T.Rex, set to debut later this month. For anyone captivated by Bolan’s spellbinding aura, this is a must-watch.
In essence, the concert was a transcendental experience, a reminder of Bolan’s immeasurable contribution to the world of music. It was a night where the past met the present, and the magic of Marc Bolan was, once again, alive and well.
