T.Rex: "Electric Warrior" Album (1971)

T.Rex: "Electric Warrior" Album (1971), it is widely regarded as a cornerstone of the glam rock movement and one of the band’s defining works. Below is a comprehensive overview of T. Rex and a detailed look at Electric Warrior, including its context, production, tracklist, impact, and legacy, with specific reference to the September 24, 1971, UK release.

T. Rex:

The Band and Their Journey

Formation and Early Years (1967–1970):T. Rex began as Tyrannosaurus Rex, a psychedelic folk-rock duo formed in 1967 by Marc Bolan (vocals, guitar) and Steve Peregrin Took (percussion). Their early sound was whimsical, rooted in acoustic folk with mythological and poetic themes, as heard on albums like My People Were Fair and Had Sky in Their Hair... (1968) and A Beard of Stars (1970).

The duo’s early work appealed to the UK underground scene, with Bolan’s warbling vocals and intricate guitar work earning a cult following. After Took’s departure in 1969 due to creative differences, Mickey Finn joined as percussionist, and the band began transitioning toward a more electric sound.

Transition to Glam Rock (1970–1971):

By 1970, Bolan shortened the band’s name to T. Rex and embraced electric guitars, a tighter rock sound, and a flashier image. The single “Ride a White Swan” (October 1970) marked this shift, reaching number 2 in the UK charts.

The self-titled album T. Rex (1970) bridged their folk roots with rock, setting the stage for their breakthrough. Bolan expanded the band to include bassist Steve Currie and drummer Bill Legend, with producer Tony Visconti playing a key role in shaping their sound.

Peak and Glam Rock Dominance (1971–1973):

T. Rex’s peak came with Electric Warrior (1971) and The Slider (1972), albums that defined glam rock with their catchy hooks, sensual lyrics, and Bolan’s androgynous charisma. Hits like “Get It On” (UK number 1) and “Telegram Sam” cemented their stardom.

The band became a cultural phenomenon, with Bolan’s glittery outfits, corkscrew curls, and theatrical performances influencing artists like David Bowie and Roxy Music. They scored four UK number 1 singles between 1971 and 1972: “Hot Love,” “Get It On,” “Telegram Sam,” and “Metal Guru.”

After 1973, their commercial success waned as punk emerged, but Bolan

continued to innovate until his tragic death in a car accident on September 16, 1977, at age 29.

Legacy:

T. Rex’s influence spans glam, punk, and indie rock, with artists like The Smiths, Oasis, and Bauhaus citing them as inspirations. Their music remains iconic for its blend of raw energy, pop sensibility, and Bolan’s unique lyricism.

The band’s catalog has been reissued extensively, including vinyl picture discs like the 2024 “Telegram Sam” release mentioned in your previous query, reflecting their enduring appeal.

Electric Warrior (Fly UK HIFLY 6, Released September 24, 1971)

Context and Creation:

Electric Warrior was T. Rex’s sixth album (second as T. Rex) and their commercial breakthrough. Recorded between March and June 1971 at studios like Trident and Advision in London, it was produced by Tony Visconti, who helped refine Bolan’s vision of blending raw rock energy with pop accessibility.

The album followed the success of “Ride a White Swan” and “Hot Love,” with Bolan fully embracing electric guitars and a glamorous image. It was a deliberate move to capture a wider audience, combining Chuck Berry-inspired riffs, Bo Diddley rhythms, and Bolan’s sensual, poetic lyrics.

The band lineup for the album included Marc Bolan (vocals, guitar), Mickey Finn (congas, bongos), Steve Currie (bass), and Bill Legend (drums). Guest musicians included Ian McDonald (saxophone) and Rick Wakeman (keyboards on “Get It On”), with Flo & Eddie (Mark Volman and Howard Kaylan of The Turtles) providing backing vocals.

Tracklist (UK Vinyl, HIFLY 6)

Side A:

“Mambo Sun”

“Cosmic Dancer”

“Jeepster”

“Monolith”

“Lean Woman Blues”

“Bang a Gong (Get It On)”

Side B:

“Planet Queen”

“Girl”

“The Motivator”

“Life’s a Gas”

“Rip Off”

Total Runtime: Approximately 39 minutes.

Musical Style and Themes:

Electric Warrior is a quintessential glam rock album, characterized by infectious guitar riffs, driving rhythms, and Bolan’s sultry, charismatic delivery. The sound blends rock ‘n’ roll, boogie, and subtle psychedelic elements, with Visconti’s production adding lush strings and polished arrangements.

Lyrically, Bolan evokes a dreamlike, mythological world with cosmic and romantic imagery. Songs like “Cosmic Dancer” explore existential themes (“I danced myself right out the womb”), while “Get It On” is a swaggering anthem of desire.

Standout tracks include:

“Get It On” (titled “Bang a Gong (Get It On)” in the U.S.):

A UK number 1 single, driven by a slinky riff and saxophone, it’s one of the defining songs of glam rock.

“Jeepster”: A boogie-infused hit (UK number 2), notable for its raw energy and Bolan’s playful vocals.

“Cosmic Dancer”: A reflective, string-laden ballad that showcases Bolan’s poetic depth.

“Life’s a Gas”: A wistful acoustic track that hints at Bolan’s folk roots.

Release and Reception:

Released on September 24, 1971, by Fly Records in the UK (HIFLY 6) and Reprise Records in the U.S., Electric Warrior was a massive success. It reached number 1 on the UK Albums Chart for six weeks and peaked at number 32 in the U.S. Billboard 200.

The album was praised for its infectious energy and Bolan’s star power. Critics lauded its simplicity and charm, with Rolling Stone later calling it “the album that essentially kick-started the UK glam rock craze.”

The singles “Get It On” (July 1971) and “Jeepster” (November 1971) were major hits, with “Get It On” also reaching number 10 in the U.S., T. Rex’s only significant stateside chart success.

Vinyl Details:

The original UK pressing (HIFLY 6) was a 12-inch vinyl LP with a gatefold sleeve featuring a striking photo of Bolan bathed in a golden glow, amplifying his rock-star mystique. The vinyl was standard weight for the era, and original copies are now collector’s items, often valued at £50–£200 depending on condition.

The album’s artwork and sound quality were tailored for the vinyl format, with Visconti’s production emphasizing warm, analog textures.

Cultural Impact and Legacy:

Electric Warrior is considered a landmark album, not only for T. Rex but for rock music broadly. It crystallized glam rock’s aesthetic—glitter, androgyny, and theatricality—paving the way for artists like David Bowie, Roxy Music, and later punk and new wave acts.

The album’s influence extends to modern indie and alternative bands, with covers of its songs by artists like The Power Station (“Get It On,” 1985) and Blondie (“Cosmic Dancer”).

It has been reissued multiple times, including deluxe vinyl and CD editions with outtakes and demos.

Critical Acclaim:

In 1971, reviews in NME and Melody Maker hailed Bolan as a rock poet, with Electric Warrior praised for its accessibility and swagger. Modern retrospectives rank it among the greatest albums of all time, with Rolling Stone placing it at number 160 on its 2020 “500 Greatest Albums” list.

The album’s blend of raw rock and polished pop continues to resonate, with “Get It On” and “Jeepster” remaining radio staples.