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It was a pleasure to be in cardiff on Tuesday to watch the premier of Upside Down the story of Creation Records.
Creation Records was an independent record label set up by the legendary Alan Mcgee which went on to change popular culture. This film documents the story of Creation Records with tales from Bobby Gillespie, Noel Gallagher, Mark Gardner and Andy Bell, Gruff Rhys and Alan himself. The story of Creation is one of believing in people and their ability to make music and change the world. This was an independent record label doing everything they could to fight the majors. The story is one of excess, including plenty of drugs. When listening to the tales of drug taking in work and Alan dancing on a railway bridge before 8am, it’s a wonder how any work ever got done or any records actually got released. This was a label that centred around partying, so much so that Alan had partied so hard that by the time Oasis were taking over the world, he was not able to join in that party having to stay clean or die.
There is no doubt in my mind that Creation Records is the greatest record label ever. OK, you could argue that Motown, Subpop, Rough Trade or Factory Records could make a claim to being the greatest. However, my belief is that creation is the greatest. Creation gave to the world, Jesus and The Mary Chain, Primal Scream, Ride, Teenage Fanclub, Super Furry Animals and Oasis. This was our 1960’s. It was an exciting time to be young and to be a part of.
Upside Down is a film anyone who has an interest in music has to watch. Whether you were there at the time or just want to hear the story relived. If you are new to this story you will be introduced to music that will change your world, like it did mine in the 90’s.
Steve Tay
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