In celebration of my friend Tom Robinson’s birthday I thought I’d review a song that was his first big hit – 2468 Motorway. Every time I hear it I usually have my headphones on and as is customary I turn it all the way up to 11 and play air guitar with TRB’s legendary maybe even mythical guitarist Danny Kustow. It’s explosive those two chords over the big drums by Dophin Taylor flamming that snare and then you hear Tom slide that bass into the first note then twice round with the organ distorted into the band coming in.
You hear Tom’s gruff vocals and that’s my favourite part of the song, it’s got the rock energy but also he’s carrying with him the blues tradition. It’s a contradiction in terms that Tom was 26 and this song was his first hit – but then he sounds like a seasoned veteran on this.
The chorus will trigger the memories of so many people from the 1970s onwards because in true rock fashion it’s one that could be bellowed in a packed pub or from the terraces of a football stadium and it’s more than likely been the case in its nearly 50 year history.
Danny comes in for a guitar solo that will melt your face off and make you pump the air – this is the reason why he’s an important part of the TRB folklore he helped shape the sound.
This is guitar hero stuff.
Having seen Tom play this live at Blackheath Halls, I know he can call forth a generation with just that one chord, or as fans who know his music well all you have to say Martin (Martin!) and you evoke the war cry of that one song – it’s got a touch of the music hall to it so it’s quite a switch.
On a personal note Tom handed over the keys to Fresh On The Net to me 2 years ago, and I’m eternally grateful to him and his kindness and generosity. When I started my show I wanted to mirror the same format that he had on BBC Introducing and give independent artist the platform that is so needed. Tom, you’re a legend to so many people, your tireless work as an activist for human rights and as an advocate for independent artists is a true inspiration.
Thankyou sir.
