Lost in time: why the test of the old gray whistle rocked
Although “Whispering” Bob Harris was the second presenter to lead the Old gray whistle test (picking up from Melody maker‘s Richard Williams in 1972), it was the soft-spoken broadcaster who came to help define the show’s then-at-some-radical approach to booking guests for their studio shell. Quietly anarchic, even though Bob’s occasional questioning eyebrow was about as panicked as the presenter ever was, the OGWT music television redefined, his philosophy of letting music do the talk is still evident today in shows like the same run down Later … with Jools Holand.
From the memorable theme of the harmonica, Stone fox hunt, at the opening credits of the infamous, animated ‘Star Kicker’ man, anyone could guess where this week’s episode would take you. So here are six reasons (four recorded under the watchful eye of Bob Harris) why the Old gray whistle shaken.
Rory Gallagher – Walking on Hot Coals, 1973
The opening track of his acclaimed sound Plan album, Rory Gallagher and his band perform with the kind of electricity you think he would book for a sold-out theater somewhere in Donegal. Charismatic and seemingly effortless in his playing, this is a live Gallagher jam that is worth saving for the ages.
New York Dolls – Jet Boy, 1973
While Harris may have sounded offbeat (and awkward when this band entered the studio, no doubt) when he called New York’s best “simulated rock,” there’s no denying the impact that the band had. The band’s first performance on British television had, giving a favorable ripple effect which helped kickstart punk rock. And as for the inimitable hair of Johnny Thunders …
Judas Priest – Rocka Rolla, 1975
The OGWT was briefly transplanted to Beeb’s Pebble Mill Studios in the Midlands for an evening of Black Country music including this rare gem from Judas Priest’s debut album. American arenas, bulletproof belts and leather were a distant dream as Rob Halford laughed at taking the hair out of his eyes and KK Downing dressed like he was about to leave for the beach.
Heart – Dreamboat Annie, 1976
Another show exclusive with Heart making her UK TV debut with the title track from their debut album. Sublime and understated with Nancy Wilson playing the OGWT game with a ‘Star Kicker’ logo badge affixed to its guitar strap. That said, as Ann offers a brief smile into the camera lens, Nancy gives the impression that she’s about to punch the operator.
Gary Moore – Back in the Streets, 1979
A tour de force, a force of nature, call it what you want, but this live rendition of the title track from Moore’s solo album was a cold kick in the head. Phil Lynott and Don Airey had both been on the album, so it was no surprise to see them in the studio, but with Cozy Powell on drums and Scott Gorham running Moore to the end of the song, this sonic punch was intended for rattle televisions all over the country.
The Cult – Love Suppression Machine, 1987
Although the group appeared on the show in 1984 with a skillful interpretation of Resurrection Joe, by the time they returned three years later, their proposal was completely different. For one thing, where did all those Marshall piles come from and who was now styling Billy Duffy, Elvira? They were, you’ll excuse the pun, electrifying though. America and MTV may just as well have capitulated on the spot.