One of the greatest bands of all time, who have blessed us with a reformation. There are many of us who see this as the pinnacle of the entire weekend, however there are just as many who have never even heard of this band who say, "Who the FUCK are The Stone Roses and why are they headlining?"
I imagine this as a brief introduction to the uninitiated. Feel free to delve into their history, far too brief, perhaps that's why this is such a big deal, not many people ever really saw them. Then peak at who they've influenced and been influenced by, some of the greats, but really it's all about the tunes! That's why they're headlining.
If you'd like to get into them, I suggest getting their first album, 1989's eponymous
The Stone Roses. (You can listen to the full US Version with that link)
Put on a nice pair of headphones, light one up, pour your favorite drink, or just grab some friends and DANCE, but enjoy the ride. A Masterpiece.
They were also a B-Side band, so make sure to check those out, I like
Turns Into Stone.
Their second and final album, Second Coming, is a change of direction and wasn't well received at the time, the bar was set so high, but there is much to like here, some big anthems and lots of groove.
Their first single from 1987:
Sally Cinnamon (single mix)
"When I heard Sally Cinnamon for the first time, I knew what my destiny was." Noel Gallagher
She Bangs The Drums
Maybe their biggest hit, still sounds so huge and fresh today.
Mersey Paradise
B-Side of She Bangs the Drums, sung from the perspective of a man who drowns and murders a woman over unrequited love. Exquisite guitar work from John Squire, who also painted all cover art for albums and singles.
Elephant Stone 7" Version
This is a non-album single which is included as track 3 on the US album. Euphoria in song form.
Ten Storey Love Song
Off Second Coming, proper sing-a-long in the desert anthem. For all of us who've ever had our heartbroken, and tried to put the pieces back together, you'll enjoy this one.
I Am The Resurrection
There are many ways to end an album, few can match this. (Fool's Gold 12" Version ends the US album) According to Mani, the bassist, the outro was recorded in a single take...incredible.
I'd like to offer a firm handshake to Goldenvoice for making this dream of mine come true.
Madchester is coming to Indio!
I can't wait for April! Who's with me??
And to those who had never heard of the Stone Roses and have recently given them a listen because of curiosity or their headlining status, what do you think?