The Sidewinders - The Sidewinders (1972)

Rock group from Boston, Massachusetts

Central to The Sidewinders is Andy Paley who has worn many hats in the music industry but is mainly recognised for his role as a producer from the late 70s on Madonna, The Ramones, Jonathan Richman, Debbie Harry, Brian Wilson, NRBQ, Mighty Lemon Drops, Jerry Lee Lewis and others.

Here, he is the vocalist and the main songwriter and his influence on the band comes clearly through on the record. On first blush the artists he produced later may appear to be diverse but this record certainly indicates that his producing tastes aren't necessarily based on monetary concerns but on personal taste, because on this record the band under his leadership cover many styles from the 50s through to the 70s though all are anchored in straight ahead rock and powerpop largely reflecting the acts he would produce later on. He also had a powerpop combo in the late 70s with his brother Jonathan, "The Paley Brothers". He obviously has a thorough knowledge of rock history...