K is for The Kinks

The second best British Invasion band of the sixties, (in my opinion), The Kinks combined a uniquely British world view, sophisticated satire, creative song writing, and sometimes sloppy, sometimes searing musicianship. Lead by the sardonic wit of leader Ray Davies and the guttural guitar playing of brother Dave Davies, The Kinks inspired more than one generation of rockers. They influenced groups on both sides of the Atlantic in the sixties, inspired both heavy metal bands and punk rock, and were a major source of inspiration to later day Brit Pop bands like Oasis, Blur and Pulp.

But I think The Kinks were at their best when making music about the poor working slobs, and the modern day struggle for individuality and dignity in a world dominated by phonies, bureaucrats, and corporations. I have heard it said that Ray Davies wrote about the universal condition of man as observed from the windows of his London flat.

Ray and Dave Davies

So here's to those well respected men, those dedicated followers of fashion, The Kinks.


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