One of the great perks of being in Los Angeles and part of NARAS (the group that is famous for the Grammys) is that they do events for members to see things and network. Last night was such an event. There was a screening of a new musical comedy coming out called The Rocker. The premise is a drummer who started a band in the 80’s and was kicked out when they got signed.
On the surface, that doesn’t seem funny. However, what happens is that the band went on to massive fame and fortune. The drummer went on to be like Pete Best. If you’re not familiar with Pete Best… here’s a quick education: he was the original drummer of the Beatles.
Fish, the drummer in the movie spent the last 20 years seething from being booted from the band he helped build and name. Then thru crazy circumstances he winds up in his nephew’s band. In the process helps lead them to fame and fortune while fulfilling his dream to be a drummer in a successful band.
As a musician this movie is hilarious for all the little quips the happen in the dialogue and innuendos. I think there’s enough of non-music life in it that even non-musicians will get a kick out of it. Think of this idea: Will Ferrell starring in a story that mixes Spinal Tap with Josey and the Pussycats. Only it’s not Will Ferrell is not in the movie it’s another up & coming comedy actor named Rainn Wilson.
To put it mildly, I laughed my ass off. There are some cheesy moments but aside from those the movie is well worth the price of admission and the music in the movie is pure commercial fun. It’s that simple.
In spirit of the 80’s rocker vibe I’m digging out a band that I really respect. Actually I respect the guitarist more than anything. John Sykes is a smoking good player. If you’re a guitarist who studies other great players, you cannot overlook John Sykes. He can probably relate to the character in the rocker. John Sykes helped to make Whitesnake a commercial success and then got booted from the band. It was John’s playing and writing that defined Whitesnake in the 80’s. At least that’s what I learned.
John Sykes is now playing guitar for another long time band that is still enjoying success, Thin Lizzy. However, I think it’s his solo stuff where he really shines. This is one of the first songs I heard by John and I really enjoy the way the song rolls along. I also love the guitar tones. Smoking riff, driving beat and consistent. The other cool thing about the song is the way it morphs. Building, building, building, then suddenly it tapers off and mutates into something totally different. It’s extremely fun. I enjoy music that takes me for a ride. Not to mention that bounce it has in the beginning.
Go enjoy The Rocker. Then go satisfy your inner rocker by picking up Jelly Roll and exploring the world of John Sykes.