The Small Faces, a legendary band from the swinging '60s, have had their Decca singles era immortalized in a new box set. But this collection is more than just a trip down memory lane; it's a window into the band's creative struggles and their battle for artistic control.
The cover photo, a black-and-white snapshot of the band in London's Westmore Terrace, captures their raw energy and ambition. It's a stark contrast to the polished image they presented to the world, and it hints at the underlying tensions within the band and their management.
The Rise and Fall with Decca
The band's journey with Decca began with a bang. Their first single, "Whatcha Gonna Do About It," an R&B-infused mod classic, charted successfully. However, the follow-up, "I Got Mine," failed to replicate this success, leading to a pivotal moment in their career.
Don Arden, their manager and Ozzy's father-in-law, had them record the more commercial "Sha-La-La-La Lee." This move, perhaps an attempt to assert control, marked the beginning of a power struggle. The band, particularly Steve Marriott and Ronnie Lane, fought to be recognized as the writers of their songs, a battle that would define their relationship with Arden and Decca.
Their masterpiece, "All Or Nothing," a perfect blend of pop and soul, became their first No.1 hit. But the success was marred by Marriott's fury over Arden's release of a demo without his approval. This incident led to a complete breakdown in their relationship, and the band moved on to Immediate Records.
Despite the split, Decca and Arden continued to release singles without the band's consent, including "I Can't Make" and "Patterns." The band refused to promote these singles, a clear sign of their dissatisfaction and desire for artistic freedom.
Keeping the Legacy Alive
Fast forward to 2021, and Kenney Jones, the last surviving member of the Small Faces, is ensuring their legacy lives on. The latest release on his Nice label, "Decca Singles 1965-1967," is a limited-edition collection of their Decca singles, pressed from the original master tapes. It includes rare Dutch sleeve designs and other archival treasures.
This box set is a testament to the band's enduring influence and the complex dynamics of the music industry. It reminds us that behind every great song, there's often a story of struggle, creativity, and the pursuit of artistic freedom.
Personally, I find it fascinating how a simple cover photo can tell such a rich story. It's a reminder that music is more than just notes and lyrics; it's a reflection of the human experience, complete with its joys, struggles, and complexities.
What many people don't realize is that the music industry, even in the '60s, was a battlefield of egos and control. This box set offers a unique glimpse into that world, and I, for one, am grateful for the opportunity to explore it further.
