It’s Genius, I Swear – Macks Faulkron of Wet Paint on Bobby Conn’s ‘The Golden Age’
What can I say? I discovered this record quite late, only in the last few years or so. Since then, I have always thought that Bobby Conn has not received the recognition he deserves.
As a musician it's easy to connect with this record due to its well crafted instrumentation and arrangements, its slight psychedelic interludes, intriguing storytelling and compelling vocal delivery. It's that perfect kind of late night record when you've just got home from a night out. You can just lose yourself in Conn's storytelling.
When I listen to this record I always imagine that I am in the band, picturing myself having a great time on guitar or drums. Parties, orgies after the show - you know the record has that power to it.
Musically this record is radical, it's like it's been scored by a composer, but I don't think that’s the case. You can feel the DIY approach. There are strings and brass, along with your usual rock'n'roll set up. I see Conn as a Prince-like character in the studio, getting irate with all the sounds and recording process, chain smoking, drinking Frangelico, smashing his glass on the floor telling the violinist to bow better and to make love to the violin and then get in the vocal booth and sing like a vunerable 14 year old school girl.
There songs on here are diverse and engaging, from ‘The Best Years of Our Lives’ with its Samba indie style, to ‘Winners’ with the signature Conn falsetto and ‘No Revolution’, an epic Indie Disco number. Take a seat and appreciate the wonder and craftsmanship of The Golden Age. Let's try and influence new artists to take this road and let the Kings of Leon generation fizzle out. I want the next band to enter my studio and say, "Hey man, can you make this sound more like that Bobby Conn guy?" Please, no more "I want that Kings of Leon guitar sound!" Come on, let's do each other a favor
Max Faulkron plays bass in Wet Paint. His debut solo EP Friends is out now – God Is In The TV have a free download from it.
Artists in this article: Wet Paint, Bobby Conn