Small Faces

Overview

Small Faces were an English rock band from London, heavily associated with the movements of mod and later psychedelic rock. They were formed in 1965 and quickly emerged as one of the most influential bands of their era. The band is widely regarded for its unique sound that amalgamated R&B, pop, psychedelic rock, and soul. Despite their initial short-lived tenure between 1965 and 1969, the Small Faces left an indelible mark on the music scene. Their powerful stage presence and infectious hits set them apart, and they played a significant role in the Swinging London scene during the mid to late 1960s.

The Small Faces carved out a distinct niche with their highly energetic performances and catchy melodies, gaining a devoted fanbase. Although their original run was relatively brief, they achieved significant success and are remembered as one of the pioneering bands that shaped the sounds of the 1960s. Members of the band included Steve Marriott, Ronnie Lane, Kenney Jones, and Jimmy Winston, who was later replaced by Ian McLagan. They are often associated with the emergence of psychedelic rock owing to their groundbreaking album 'Ogden's Nut Gone Flake,' which displayed their musical innovation and creativity.

Throughout their career, Small Faces produced several hit songs that have become classics. Their ability to blend different musical influences into a cohesive and energetic sound distinguished them in the music industry. Songs like 'Itchycoo Park,' 'Lazy Sunday,' and 'All or Nothing' showcased their impressive songwriting skills. Even after the band disbanded, the members went on to influence subsequent musical acts, with some pursuing successful musical careers in other bands or solo projects.

In the years following their disbandment, the legacy of Small Faces continued to grow, bolstered by a resurgence of interest in their music. As time went on, their contributions to rock music were increasingly recognized, leading to various accolades and continuing appreciation from both fans and critics alike. Their innovative blending of genres and energetic presentation has made them an iconic band that remains influential to this day.

Formation and Early Years

The Small Faces were founded in 1965 by Steve Marriott, Ronnie Lane, and Kenney Jones, initially with Jimmy Winston as a member. The band was formed in London and quickly rooted themselves in the local mod scene. Inspired by American rhythm and blues as well as the burgeoning British rock movement, the Small Faces sought to create a sound that would resonate with the energetic youth culture of the time.

Steve Marriott's commanding vocals and dynamic stage presence became defining elements of the band, while Ronnie Lane's bass playing and songwriting added depth to their music. Kenney Jones provided the steady, driving beat that characterized their sound. The original lineup was rounded out by Jimmy Winston on keyboards, but he was soon replaced by Ian McLagan, whose keyboard skills complemented the band’s developing style.

The band secured a record deal with Decca Records and quickly released their debut single, 'Whatcha Gonna Do About It,' which caught the attention of music lovers and climbed the UK charts. This early success helped establish their reputation as a formidable live act with a penchant for memorable melodies and vibrant performances.

During their formative years, Small Faces worked tirelessly to craft a distinctive style that fused the influences of soul, R&B, and British beat music. They were thrust into stardom at a remarkably rapid pace, gaining a following that appreciated their authentic sound and enthusiastic energy. These foundation years were defined by a spirit of exploration and creativity that would come to characterize their music throughout their career.

Career Highlights

Small Faces experienced a meteoric rise in popularity during their active years, crafting numerous hits that solidified their status within the British music scene. Their single 'Sha-La-La-La-Lee' was a commercial success, propelling the band further into the limelight and earning them appearances on popular UK television shows.

A pivotal moment came with the release of ‘Itchycoo Park,’ a single that expertly captured the band’s evolving sound and psychedelic influences. The song’s innovative production techniques, combined with its catchy melody, ensured it became one of the band’s most well-known hits. 'Lazy Sunday' and 'All or Nothing' further demonstrated their appeal, showcasing a broader range of musical influences and lyrical sophistication.

The band’s third and most ambitious album, 'Ogden's Nut Gone Flake,' released in 1968, represented the zenith of their creativity. The album was structured as a concept piece for its second side, incorporating elements of storytelling and psychedelic rock in a groundbreaking manner. It topped the UK Albums Chart and is often hailed as a landmark in the rock genre.

Despite their achievements, internal tensions and the pressures of fame led to the band’s dissolution in 1969. However, these career highlights helped establish the Small Faces as a fundamental influence in rock music, with their work continuing to be celebrated by music historians and fans around the world.

Musical Style

The musical style of Small Faces is characterized by a unique blend of mod, rock, psychedelic, and rhythm and blues influences. Early in their career, they embraced a Mod aesthetic, drawing heavily on American R&B and soul music, which they infused with British pop sensibilities to formulate a distinct sound that appealed to the youth culture of the 1960s.

Their music often featured strong hooks, vibrant melodies, and an energetic beat, making their songs instantly recognizable and relatable. The compelling and soulful voice of Steve Marriott was frequently complemented by harmonizing backing vocals, adding many layers to their sound.

With their later works, particularly 'Ogden's Nut Gone Flake,' Small Faces ventured into the realm of psychedelic rock. Collaborating innovative studio techniques and whimsical lyrics, they showcased their willingness to experiment and push the boundaries of traditional pop and rock music.

The band’s musical style consistently reflected the changing landscape of the 1960s music scene, echoing the broader cultural shifts that were taking place. By incorporating a wide range of influences and remaining open to experimentation, Small Faces contributed significantly to the evolution of rock music during their time.

Most Important Albums

Small Faces' discography is compact but impactful, with several albums that have attained critical acclaim and cultural significance. Their self-titled debut album 'Small Faces' was released in 1966 and captured the raw energy and drive of their early sound, featuring tracks that showcased their rock and R&B roots.

The release of 'From the Beginning' and their second eponymous album in 1967 marked a transition phase for the band as they began to infuse their music with more complex songwriting and varied instrumentation. These records stand out as fine examples of 1960s British rock, mixed with the soul and mod ethos the band was known for.

'Ogden's Nut Gone Flake' emerged as their most lauded work. A concept album, it pushed the boundaries of what an album could achieve both musically and thematically. Its mix of psychedelic rock and storytelling was avant-garde for its time, contributing to its legendary status.

Though their output was concentrated within a few years, each album demonstrated growth and innovation, marking them as a band willing to evolve and experiment. These albums have since experienced enduring appreciation, with many considering them essential to any collection of 1960s rock music.

Legacy and Influence

The legacy of Small Faces transcends their relatively brief period of activity. Despite their short tenure, they had a significant impact on the mod scene and paved the way for the development of British psychedelia. Their music resonated strongly with the changing cultural tides of the 1960s, incorporating elements of rebellion and experimentation that defined a generation.

Artists across a spectrum of genres have cited Small Faces as an influence, appreciating their ability to innovate within the constraints of pop and rock music. The band’s pioneering use of concept albums and intricate studio techniques were formative for future generations of musicians and producers, particularly those in progressive rock and Britpop.

The posthumous interest in Small Faces has only grown with time, reflecting a renewed admiration for their powerful, emotive sound. Various line-ups of the band reformed in later years, with members pursuing projects that kept the spirit of Small Faces alive. Their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame further cemented their stature as icons of rock music.

Today, Small Faces remain an enduring symbol of 1960s rock, celebrated for their innovation, their embodiment of mod culture, and their fearless exploration of various musical genres. Their work continues to be discovered by new audiences, ensuring that their influence persists in the ever-evolving world of music.