WHO'S HE THINK HE IS WHEN HE'S AT HOME?
Glen Matlock Creation Records

Glen Matlock's first solo album is the real appetizer for the Sex Pistols' reunion tour that comes around this week. Matlock' allegedly booted out of the original Pistols lineup for liking the Beatles' proves himself' ironically' to be the true heir to the Pistols' "sound." This import CD is the first rumble of activity from the one Pistol who actually started off with musical ability' which comes through most clearly in the tight song structures. Hardcore Pistols fans will revel in the grinding and squealing guitar -- a unique combination of angry thrusting and melodic drive. No other former Pistol has captured that same musical fury since the group's "Never Mind the Bollocks . . ."

Two standouts on the album are "My Little Philistine'" which is catchy from the get- go' and the defiant "Don't Put Me On'" which sounds like the Pistols if they hadn't taken an 18-year sabbatical. What are these songs about? For starters' there's lots of self-deprecation (not a classic Pistols theme)' some surprising revelations about Matlock's personal life (the courageous "My Man" -- not a Billie Holiday remake) and laments over communication problems with other people (maybe references to the former bandmates).

The problem is that Matlock' like Steve Jones on his two solo albums' is insecure about his singing. His style is a cockney swagger' especially on the confessional "Story of Your Life'" which refers to his earlier career downfall. Lines like "You get to miss out on the action' miss out on the fun/If there's gonna be a fall guy/guess who's gonna be the one" are complemented by a punk version of "Abbey Road"- style hooks. Some things never change -- let's hope the reconnected Pistols can use Matlock's songwriting abilities as an asset for some new songs. (The Sex Pistols play Great Woods in Mansfield' Mass.' Saturday).

Review by Jude L. Schwendenwien

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