1974
Rejuvenation and Beyond: The Meters' Epic 1974
This post explores The Meters and their legendary 1974, a year filled with collaborations, chart-topping hits, and the release of their masterpiece, "Rejuvenation." From backing Dr. John and Labelle to creating their own funky magic, The Meters were unstoppable.
Not feeling like reading? That's alright! 😎 Here is their infectious hit, "It Ain’t no Use." 🔊
There is such a thing as "New Orleans Funk": a distinct sound, authentic to its roots yet infused with the joyous energy of a vibrant street march. 🎉 And it's embodied by the legendary Meters, formed in the late 60s by Art Neville (keyboards, organ, and vocals), Leo Nocentelli (guitar), George Porter Jr. (bass and backing vocals), and Joseph "Zigaboo" Modeliste (drums).
“The Meters funk” is instantly recognizable both on their own recordings (8 albums in total between 1969 and 1977) as well as on many backing sessions they did for other artists. And if I could board a train traveliing through time and select any year to get off… I would do so at 74 to hang around The Meters all year long! It would be Dr.John, Robert Palmer and Labelle recording sessions & I am not even starting to talk about Rejuvenation album to be released in the same year. I would be ecstatic.
The Meters begin their epic year of 74, working with the late great Dr. John, a.k.a. the Night Tripper, on his album "Desitively Bonnaroo." Dr. John 🎹🌟 is the musical medicine man, mixing tall tales about voodoo queens and jazz cats 🎶 His music is a melting pot of influences, from Mardi Gras horns to psychedelic swirls. This collaboration on "Desitively Bonnaroo" comes after the enormous hit "Right Place, Wrong Time" of the year before. Songs like "Quitters Never Win" and "Desitively Bonnaroo" demonstrate The Meters' versatility as musicians in addition to showcasing the tight grooves and catchy rhythms that characterize their sound.
Then in May 74, The Meters collaborate with King Biscuit Boy, a Canadian blues musician; on what is widely referred to as "The Brown Derby Album".
The collaboration streak continues with Robert Palmer in September 74 when they work together on Palmer's debut solo album, "Sneakin' Sally Through the Alley." Robert Palmer: 💖 the epitome of smooth sophistication, icon of cool elegance… Palmer's soulful vocals are perfectly complemented by the tight rhythm section of The Meters, creating notable pieces like "From a Whisper to a Scream" and the title track "Sneakin' Sally Through the Alley."
To cap off this monumental year, The Meters serve as the backing band for Labelle's smash hit "Lady Marmalade."
Labelle: 🌟 the vocal powerhouse of the 70s vocal scene, not just a group! They combine awe-inspiring beauty and power with incredible stage presence, their dazzling costumes and accessories making them fashion idols too. Their music combines elements of gospel, soul, and funk to create an exciting experience that goes beyond simple entertainment. When "Lady Marmalade" is released in November 74, it quickly becomes one of Labelle's most well-known and popular songs. The song has a funky and rhythmic base thanks to The Meters' signature tight musical beat, which also adds to the song's overall lively and danceable vibe.
And then there is “Rejuvenation” - a testament to The Meters' ability to craft catchy grooves and redefine the funk genre. This masterpiece of funk showcases the band at the peak of their creative powers. Tracks like "People Say," "Africa," and "Just Kissed My Baby" become instant classics, and it is the infectious groove of "Hey Pocky A-Way" an adaptation of Mardi Gras Indian material that truly propelles the album to success, becoming a hit track.
I have huge love for this album for almost every song… but my all time favorite is “It Ain’t no Use”, 11+ minutes long, it is a quintessential Meters experience. The song's hypnotic rhythm section is led by Joseph Modeliste's intricate drumming and George Porter Jr.'s pounding bass. Leo Nocentelli's synchronized guitar work adds another level of complexity. 'It Ain't No Use' is a timeless gem.
Gülben - 03/2024
📖 John Swenson @ Relix Magazine / The Meters
🎶 Genre: Funk
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