T. Rex (September 29, 1991) – “Marc Bolan and T. Rex: The Ultimate Collection” Review - The Independent
This short review assesses Marc Bolan and T. Rex: The Ultimate Collection, a newly issued compilation bringing together many of T. Rex's best-known recordings. While the reviewer is unimpressed by the packaging, the contents are praised as a reminder of Bolan's exceptional talent for creating memorable hit singles.
Publication: The Independent
Date: September 29, 1991
Country: United Kingdom
The review focuses on Marc Bolan and T. Rex: The Ultimate Collection (Telstar TCD2539), describing it as a compilation that the world may not necessarily need but one that listeners would nevertheless enjoy. The writer immediately criticises the cover artwork, commenting that its use of stills from a television commercial is irritating.
Attention quickly turns to the music itself, where the tone becomes considerably more positive. The reviewer argues that Bolan understood the craft of the three-minute single as well as any songwriter before or since. To illustrate the point, the piece quotes lyrics from the 1971 hit "Hot Love", highlighting the playful imagination and instantly recognisable style that defined Bolan's songwriting.
The review also notes the inclusion of "Plateau Skull", described as a previously unreleased recording intended for fan-club members only. The writer characterises the track as an acid blues piece and presents it as an added attraction for collectors and long-time fans.
CONTEXT AND NOTES
Published fourteen years after Marc Bolan's death, the review reflects the continuing demand for T. Rex compilations and retrospective releases. Rather than reassessing Bolan's place in music history, the article assumes his importance and focuses on the enduring appeal of the songs themselves.
The review's strongest observation is that Bolan's gift lay in transforming unusual ideas and imagery into highly effective pop singles. Although critical of the presentation, the writer ultimately regards the compilation as an enjoyable reminder of the qualities that made T. Rex one of the defining acts of the glam rock era.
FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS
Event: Review of Marc Bolan and T. Rex: The Ultimate Collection
Era: 1991 compilation release era
Tone: Appreciative with mild criticism of the packaging
Photography: No photography discussed beyond criticism of the compilation cover artwork
WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS
• Review of Marc Bolan and T. Rex: The Ultimate Collection (Telstar TCD2539)
• Praise for Marc Bolan's mastery of the three-minute pop single
• Reference to the inclusion of the previously unreleased track "Plateau Skull"
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