Classic Albums - Lou Reed: Transformer (2001)

This installment of the Classic Albums series looks at the making of Lou Reed's seminal glam-rock solo album, Transformer, featuring a relaxed Reed (though decidedly less glam than he was in '72) looking like he's having the time of his life as he reminisces and isolates separate tracks to illustrate how the album came together. Bassist Herbie Flowers demonstrates how he recorded the swingy, impossibly catchy bass riff in "Walk on the Wild Side," and coproducer David Bowie makes a brief appearance, as do many of Reed's contemporaries and fellow musicians. Many express delight that the tracks sound as fresh as they did when they were recorded, especially "Vicious" and "Perfect Day." DVD bonus interviews include a fascinating tale from Reed on how he first met Andy Warhol--while he and the Velvet Underground were playing in a seedy Village café, being attacked by drunken sailors offended by one of their songs. --Anne Hurley Amazon.com

Very enjoyable

Very informative and enjoyable piece. Made me enjoy the album even more, given the fresh insights from the players. Neat bits with Herbie Flowers (bass), Ken Scott (engineer), and others, including Lou, of course. Reed seemed quite human, approachable, and humble. Only brief snippets of interviews with Bowie. A special treat was the chance to see some brief interview clips with Mick Ronson and to hear Lou talk about him. I want an entire DVD of Mick!

Well worth a watch or three. March 18, 2005

A velvet goldmine of glam must-own!!

I tip my hat again and again to the makers of the Classic Albums series for including Transformer, a seminal album in the career of Lou Reed and of the glam rock genre. As in the other titles of this series, you are treated to interviews with the session musicians, producers, and engineers who took part in making the record, as well as rock critics who, as always, are more than happy to interpret another's intentions.
The true highlight of this DVD is the input of Reed himself, who seems to be completely enjoying himself, talking about the making of the album, sitting at the mixing board isolating various tracks, and playing some of the tunes solo. His dry wit will break you up, guaranteed. On top of this, there is plenty of concert footage from the early seventies, although sadly with no audio. Bowie fans should also take note that there is some very rare Ziggy Stardust footage here, but unfortunately the only Bowie interview clips to be found are few and far between, taken from the PBS biography of Reed produced five years ago. But this is a small gripe. If you have any interest in Reed you should see this.
Now.. If they would only do Ziggy Stardust.... February 17, 2002

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