Album of the weekend

Motorhead-Ace of Spades

:: moment of silence for Lemmy:: 

It is sometimes difficult for Americans to understand the Queen of England. Her powers are difficult enough to grasp but what is more complex in some ways is the notion of how she "represents" what it is to be British. People are prosecuted in her name, laws are enforced in her name, and wars are fought in her name. No, I'm not an expert in English law (though ethnically I am English), so if I'm wrong-sorry it's just my understanding. Americans have the Flag and the Constitution that "represent us" and England has the monarchy. 

Lemmy is to metal what the Queen is to England. Lemmy represents all that is metal. From his lifestyle to his appearance to what matters most- his music-he is the embodiment of what metal stands for. Johnny Ramone was once "caught" driving a Cadillac and some snotnose said "That ain't punk!" His response was "I created punk! If I say it's punk, it's punk." Johnny was right. Lemmy didn't create metal, but if he said it was metal,  it was metal. There would be no argument. 

So you can see how his sudden death last December is still painful for his fans. 

Ace of Spades is the the epitome of a Motorhead song, so it's also the epitome of a metal song. The BBC also said that "we are the road crew is the sound of a grizzled veteran who has been there, done that." The BBC is right-the entire album has a been there, done that sound without sounding old and tired. It sounds more like the wise old grandfather giving advice on how to live to his obedient and dutiful grandchildren. Ace of Spades is the best song on the it's self titled album, but "we are the Road Crew" "Live to Win" and "The Chase is Better than the Catch" are all outstanding.

I'm toying with a new tattoo idea-I'd like an Ace of Space card on my leg. Just in honor of Lemmy. 

You don't like metal if you don't like Motorhead. If you don't like Motorhead (Shame! Shame!) try this album.