Ten Years After: A Hidden Gem of the 1960s
Versatile Musicianship
Ten Years After, led by the extraordinary Alvin Lee, remains a largely overlooked band from the 1960s. Known for their fusion of blues, jazz, and rock, the quartet showcased remarkable versatility, creating a unique sound that set them apart from their contemporaries.
Alvin Lee’s Unique Style
Alvin Lee, a guitar prodigy, didn’t rely on effects pedals. Instead, he crafted his signature sound by plugging directly into his amp and manipulating his technique, such as using his mic stand as a slide. His Gibson ES-335, affectionately called “Big Red,” featured a custom pickup that enriched their boogie blues style.
“The sound I like is a valve overload,” Lee explained, emphasizing the distinct harmonics produced during distortion.
Signature Sound
Their crisp sound distinguished them from rock legends like Hendrix and Page, even earning their admiration. While they never produced a defining masterpiece, early albums like Ssssh (1969) and Cricklewood Green (1970) are praised for their innovative blend of covers and originals, successfully pushing the boundaries of blues rock.
Live Performances
Ten Years After thrived in live settings, as evidenced by their two live albums. The track “Woodchopper’s Ball,” originally a big band classic, transformed into a stunning seven-minute showcase of speed and skill. This improvisation hinted at the birth of musical fusion, inspiring artists like John McLaughlin.
Noteworthy Recordings
Their live album, Recorded Live, is hailed as their best, featuring rich sound from a meticulously mixed array of tracks. Highlights include engaging covers and playful interludes, showcasing their ability to blend genres for fun.
Legacy and Influence
Despite their eventual decline in the mid-70s, Ten Years After left a lasting impact on rock music. Their high point, A Space in Time (1970), introduced a folk rock element and produced their only U.S. hit, “I’d Love to Change the World.”
Even their lesser-known tracks contain gems waiting to be discovered by newer fans. The band remains a testament to a unique, yet often unrecognized, chapter in rock history.
Chrysalis’s 2013 reissue of Recorded Live added to their legacy, although Alvin Lee had passed away just months prior, leaving a void in the music world he helped shape.
