Hey there, music lovers! Remember the 1970s, when groovy tunes and far-out bands were all the rage? Well, guess what? Our pal, Mike McCready, the legendary guitarist of Pearl Jam, has some incredible insights to share about the underrated bands and artists from that era. During the 1970s, various musical genres and styles converged in the mainstream—for better or worse. And during the decade, there were certainly special musical moments that either flew under the radar, were overshadowed, or weren’t appreciated. Let’s dive into Mike McCready’s top 20 hidden gems of the 1970s!
1. Fanny
You might not have heard much about them, but Fanny was a trailblazing all-female rock band that deserves way more recognition. Their fiery guitar riffs and killer harmonies were groundbreaking.
2. Nektar
Nektar, a British progressive rock band, created mesmerizing, otherworldly music that still captivates listeners today. Their album “Remember the Future” is a must-listen.
3. Spirit
Spirit was a psychedelic rock band that pushed the boundaries of music with their blend of rock, jazz, and blues. Songs like “Taurus” and “Nature’s Way” are timeless classics.
4. Little Feat
Don’t let the name fool you; Little Feat was a big deal in the ’70s. With their unique fusion of rock, funk, and blues, songs like “Dixie Chicken” and “Willin'” are pure gold.
5. The Groundhogs
This British blues-rock trio was a powerhouse, and their album “Split” is an underrated gem.
6. Manfred Mann’s Earth Band
With their progressive rock sound and epic cover of Bruce Springsteen’s “Blinded by the Light,” this band is definitely worth a listen.
7. The Sensational Alex Harvey Band
Known for their theatrical live performances, this Scottish band brought a mix of glam rock and hard-hitting lyrics to the scene.
8. Rory Gallagher
Mike McCready is a huge fan of Rory Gallagher’s bluesy guitar work. Songs like “A Million Miles Away” showcase his extraordinary talent.
9. The Move
With their catchy tunes and the incredible voice of Roy Wood, The Move left an indelible mark on the ’70s music landscape.
10. Montrose
Led by the legendary Ronnie Montrose, this band rocked the ’70s with their self-titled debut album, featuring Sammy Hagar on vocals.
Mike McCready’s love for these underrated ’70s bands is contagious, and exploring their music will transport you back to a groovier time. So, why not give these hidden gems a spin and discover a whole new world of musical magic?
Leave a Reply