T. Rex (March 18, 1971) "Soundings" - Album Review The Cincinnati Enquirer

The Cincinnati Enquirer album review of T. Rex’s self-titled album by Jim Knippenberg, reflecting early American reactions to the band’s transition from underground duo to electric pop act.

Publication:

The Cincinnati Enquirer

Date: 

March 18, 1971

Country: 

United States

Section: 

Album Review / Soundings Column

THE STORY	WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS
Jim Knippenberg reviews T. Rex’s self-titled album, describing it as soft-rock with occasional energy. He notes the duo format (Marc Bolan and Micky Finn), the departure of Steve Took, and finds some parts pleasant but overly familiar. He compares elements to Simon & Garfunkel and Ray Davies while acknowledging the album’s appeal to fans.	• Headline: “Soundings” column by Jim Knippenberg • Review of the T. Rex album (Reprise) • Discussion of the band’s shift from Tyrannosaurus Rex • Mixed assessment of the record’s originality and appeal

CONTEXT AND NOTES	RELATED MATERIAL
This early US review reflects how American critics were first encountering T. Rex during their transitional phase. While “Ride a White Swan” had some impact, the glam explosion had not yet fully hit America. The review shows the challenge of placing Bolan’s evolving sound within familiar US reference points.	For more similar posts, check out the tags at the bottom of the page.

FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS	SOURCES
Event: Album review Era: 1971 (Early US exposure) Tone: Mixed, cautious, observational Photography: N/A	• The Cincinnati Enquirer, March 18, 1971 • Writer: Jim Knippenberg

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