Lou Reed: Transformer - Top Glam Rock Albums

Lou Reed's second solo album, released in November 1972. Here's an in-depth look at this pivotal work in Reed's career:

Background:

Post-Velvet Underground: After the disbandment of The Velvet Underground, Lou Reed embarked on a solo career. His first solo album was somewhat underwhelming commercially, but "Transformer" would change his trajectory significantly.

Collaboration with Bowie and Ronson: The album was produced by David Bowie and Mick Ronson, who were at the height of their glam rock fame with Ziggy Stardust. This collaboration was crucial in shaping the sound and style of "Transformer."

Production and Recording:

Venue: Recorded at Trident Studios in London, the production took advantage of Bowie's recent success with glam rock aesthetics, giving Reed's music a new, more accessible sheen.

Musical Style: The album combines elements of glam rock, pop, and Reed's characteristic lyrical depth. Ronson's arrangements, including lush string sections, added a layer of sophistication to Reed's often raw songwriting.

Key Tracks:

"Walk on the Wild Side": Perhaps the album's most famous track, known for its catchy bassline and its candid depiction of the New York City underground scene. It became Reed's only Top 20 hit in the US.

"Satellite of Love": A song with an orchestral arrangement, showcasing Reed's ability to blend rock with more traditional pop structures.

"Vicious": Starts with a deceptive simplicity, then builds into a rock number that captures Reed's biting wit.

"Perfect Day": Later became one of Reed's signature songs, known for its irony and simplicity, offering a contrast to the album's more overt glam rock elements.

Themes:

Urban Life and Subculture: Reed's lyrics on "Transformer" continue his exploration of urban decay, sexual ambiguity, and the fringes of society, themes he had touched upon with The Velvet Underground but now in a more polished format.

Identity and Performance: The influence of Bowie is evident not just musically but thematically, with songs exploring identity, performance, and the fluidity of self.

Reception and Impact:

Commercial Success: "Transformer" was Reed's commercial breakthrough, reaching No. 13 in the UK charts and No. 29 on the Billboard 200 in the US. This success helped cement Reed's reputation as a major solo artist.

Critical Acclaim: The album was well-received by critics, who praised the production, Reed's songwriting, and the fusion of his underground sensibilities with mainstream pop appeal.

Legacy: "Transformer" is often cited as one of the defining albums of the glam rock era, influencing a generation of musicians. It's also seen as a key work in Reed's discography, showcasing his unique blend of art and commerce.

Later Influence:

Cultural Impact: Songs from "Transformer" have been covered extensively by various artists, and "Walk on the Wild Side" remains a cultural touchstone for discussions about the 1970s New York City scene.

Reissues: The album has seen numerous reissues, often with bonus tracks like live performances or alternative versions, indicating its lasting significance.

Summary:

"Transformer" not only marked Lou Reed's commercial peak but also solidified his artistic vision in a way that resonated with a broader audience. Its blend of glam rock glamour with Reed's gritty, poetic songwriting has made it an enduring classic, capturing the zeitgeist of the early '70s while maintaining relevance through its exploration of identity, society, and music.