I is for Iggy Pop

As I write this post I am listening to the CD version of Raw Power by Iggy and the Stooges. It reminds me that the vinyl version, which I have in my collection, is responsible for me having a slightly irrational dislike of David Bowie.

Iggy and Bowie have a history of working together which has produced some very fine work, but Bowie's mix on Raw Power, which he did in collaboration with Iggy, makes it sound as if you're listening to it through a wall. I bought the vinyl version many years ago having read that it was a must-have for anyone who liked ballsy rock'n'roll. I liked it and still sing the songs to myself while walking my dog, but there was something missing from that recording. And then came Iggy's remix and lo! there was the most wonderful noise and Raw Power had turned in to what I was expecting all along.


In the sleeve notes for the CD Iggy Pop admits that a lack of technology, money, time and equipment led to the original version so it's fair to say my dislike of David Bowie, which is only slight really, is completely irrational, but I'm only human. On the back of the CD, Iggy says: "Everything's still in the red, it's a very violent mix." Yes, it is, it's brilliant. Let's listen to some of it.

You might want to sit quietly for a while after listening to that. Or try the Also-Rans.

Also-rans: Easy one, this...Summer Breeze by the Isley Brothers. It's a beautiful summer tune, even in winter.