Marc Bolan / T. Rex (May 5, 1977) “Dandy in the Underworld” Album Review – Swindon Advertiser

The May 5, 1977 edition of the Swindon Advertiser publishes a highly critical review of T. Rex’s album Dandy in the Underworld, dismissing it as repetitive and boring.

Publication: Swindon Advertiser Date: May 5, 1977

Country: United Kingdom Location: Swindon

The reviewer sarcastically questions whether Marc Bolan fans still exist or if they “died with the tyrannosaurus”. He describes the album as a “waste of vinyl”, criticising the repetitive lyrics (noting one line chanted eight times) and suggesting Bolan is “saving energy” by not writing many new lines.

CONTEXT AND NOTES

By 1977, T. Rex’s commercial peak had long passed. This harsh local review reflects the declining popularity and changing musical tastes of the era, as punk and new wave were rising while glam rock’s star was fading.

FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS 

Event: Negative album review

Era: 1977

Tone: Sarcastic, dismissive Photography: Text-based review (no photo in clipping)

WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS

• Bold headline “T. REX — Dandy in the Underworld”

• Sarcastic commentary on Bolan’s fanbase and songwriting

• Criticism of repetitive lyrics and lack of originality

• Typical local newspaper album review layout

All magazine scans, newspaper cuttings, scrapbook items, photographs and original text excerpts remain the property of their respective copyright holders. This entry is a transformative, non-commercial archival summary created for historical documentation and educational reference.

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