Marc Bolan (August 27, 1972) – “Marc Bolan is No Mick Jagger” Feature – Democrat and Chronicle (Rochester, New York)*

This Democrat and Chronicle review from 27 August 1972 critiques T. Rex and Marc Bolan’s album The Slider, comparing Bolan’s glam‑rock persona to Mick Jagger’s swagger. Written by Mark Starr, the piece dismisses claims that Bolan could succeed Jagger as England’s next rock icon, describing The Slider as “almost a parody of top 40 rock.”

Publication: Democrat and Chronicle   Date: 27 August 1972 Country: United States

The review opens by noting the wave of publicity surrounding T. Rex’s arrival in America, then quickly challenges the notion of Bolan as Jagger’s heir. Starr calls The Slider “ridiculous” as evidence of that claim, arguing that Bolan’s formula relies on repetitive guitar riffs and simplistic lyrics such as “Metal Guru is it you?” 

He acknowledges Bolan’s alluring vocals and the polished production, including backing vocals by Howard Kaylan and Mark Volman, but concludes that Bolan’s sexuality and lyrical depth fall short of Jagger’s intensity. The article contrasts Bolan’s teenage appeal with Jagger’s adult magnetism, suggesting that Bolan’s music demands little from listeners. It ends with a brief review of Ramatam’s self‑titled album, noting its competent musicianship but lack of standout songs.

CONTEXT AND NOTES

This review reflects early American skepticism toward glam rock’s theatrical style.

While British critics celebrated Bolan’s flamboyance, U.S. writers often viewed it as superficial compared to the blues‑based authenticity of the Rolling Stones.

The piece captures that cultural divide — glam’s glittering artifice versus rock’s traditional grit — at a moment when T. Rex was breaking into the U.S. market.

Starr’s comparison to Jagger underscores how Bolan’s charm and simplicity were misunderstood by critics expecting overt sensuality and lyrical complexity.

In hindsight, The Slider became one of Bolan’s most acclaimed works, but this review shows how its brilliance was initially dismissed as pop excess.

FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS

Event: Review of The Slider album by T. Rex  

Era: 1972 – Glam Rock / U.S. Reception Era Tone: Critical, analytical, and skeptical Photography: Black‑and‑white portrait of reviewer Mark Starr accompanying the column

WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS

• Newspaper review titled “Marc Bolan is No Mick Jagger”

• Critique of The Slider and Bolan’s glam‑rock persona

• Comparison between Bolan and Mick Jagger’s musical and sexual charisma

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