Who could possibly have imagined the revolution this relatively unknown 21-year-old (outside of Memphis) was to have on popular music when he released his debut album back in 1956. Elvis' eponymous debut was an amalgamation of different recording sessions throughout January at his new record label RCA with additional material supplied from his first label, Sun Records.
Protocol of the 1950s dictated that the ‘better’ songs, with greater selling potential, were released as singles; whereas albums were usually filled with lesser qualities songs. Therefore this album is by no means perfect, in fact given today’s standards of albums it comes across as a rather clumsy record in production and execution.
However, that should not detract from some greatness contained within. There is no mistaking Elvis’ idiosyncratic vocals and the overall energy of the album is infectious, such as the cover of Charles’ ‘Ive Got A Woman’, Richards’ ‘Tutti Frutti’ and ‘I’m Gonna Sit Right Down’. The energy is not only contained to Elvis, but also his great musicians; the pioneering Scotty Moore, Bill Black and D J Fontana. There simple yet effective arrangements work perfectly for Elvis and together they venture on quite a wide range of genres which is admirable in itself; covering country, rockabilly, R&B, blues and pop.
Proceedings start off excellently with the infamous ‘Blue Suede Shoes’ (only included as Perkin’s had already released the song himself and Elvis was contractually obliged to wait until he could release it as a single himself). In saying that I still enjoy Perkins' version as much if not more than the Kings. Some of the Sun recordings included, such as ‘I Love You Because’ and ‘I’ll Lever Let You Go’ come across as less than impressive. Also, although Tutti Frutti’s frenetic pace is a great effort, I would still rather listen to the original any day.
Yet there are gems included. ‘Trying To Get To You’ is one of the best early recordings Elvis ever made. Similarly, Elvis’ stripped rendition of ‘Blue Moon’ complete with falsetto oohs is exemplary. The final track ‘Money Honey’ starts off like Mancini’s ‘Pink Panther’ theme tune but transforms into a fantastic R&B number.
The albums cover is similarly a landmark. It is one of the most iconic photos of Elvis and was subverted by the Clash for ‘London Calling’ twenty years later.
Stand-out tracks: ‘Blue Suede Shoes’, ‘Trying To Get To You’, 'Blue Moon’, 'Money Honey’
Rating: 7/10
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