Skip to main content

Stones vs. Keys

So, in my excitement to discover more hidden gems, I'm breaking my promise of less chit chat. I could not wait to start talking to you again regarding Rock's Hidden Gems, B-sides from Rock Icons. Classic artists and more.

But, to keep things level, we don't forget the newer bands. Rock bands that are forging their way forward. Who knows, to be remembered 20 or 30 years from now.



Moving along. The Rolling Stones, who doesn't know or at least, know of them. At some point in our lives, regardless whether you are in your teens, twenties, thirties or older. We have been exposed.

Start me up, Paint it Black, Emotional Rescue, and so many more. But why are we here? We are here to discover. Rocks hidden gems. So today we look at a lessor known, if not, a great tune. "Loving Cup".


This song is one of their standout and deeper B-side tracks from the iconic "Exile on Main Street" album. It's a bluesy, soulful track that showcases the bands ability to blend Rock and Roll with gospel and soul influences.

A more recent band - The Black Keys - song, "Little Black Submarine". Now, if you've not given this band a listen, do yourself a favor. 

Not entirely a B-side, "Little Black Submarine" is a hidden gem on El Camino that isn't as widely known as their hit song "Lonely Boy".



It starts off with a haunting acoustic intro before launching into a powerful, electric guitar riff. This song is a great example of their blend of Blues-Rock influences, with modern, gritty production.

In comparison, we have the raw, classic Rock spirit of "Loving Cup", with the Blues-Rock revival style of "Little Black Submarine". Both tracks bringing together elements of Rock, Blues and Soul.

While the Rolling Stones approach is more rooted in the raw, 70's era, The Black Keys offer a more modern take on similar influences. Both songs contain a very unique energy.

There you have it, this week's take on B-sides. I'm still open to suggestions and will gladly, in our communal search, entertain your recommendations. Until then, I will continue in my quest. And, questions, ask away.

Next week I will introduce you to one of my favourite bands, who, excuse the pun, I believe should have waited five or so more years, nevertheless, The Who. And whoever we choose to pit them against. Until then, enjoy listening,  and Rock on!

Check out these songs on YouTube! But I'm most certain you will find them on Spotify, Deezer, Apple Tunes or any other favourite music app.



Comments

Popular posts from this blog

AC/DC: From Bon Scott to Brian Johnson

  The Evolution of a Rock Powerhouse Introduction AC/DC is synonymous with raw energy, electrifying riffs, and a no-nonsense approach to rock ‘n’ roll. But beneath their loud and rebellious exterior lies an evolution that saw the band transition from bluesy hard rock to stadium-filling anthems. With Bon Scott at the helm, AC/DC crafted a raw, streetwise sound that resonated with the working class. When Brian Johnson took over, they expanded their sound, blending their hard-hitting style with unforgettable melodies. This transformation didn't just make them bigger—it made them timeless. The Bon Scott Era (1974–1980): The Grit & Swagger of Early AC/DC Bon Scott wasn’t just a frontman; he was a storyteller. His raspy vocals and charismatic stage presence made AC/DC feel rebellious yet relatable. This era was defined by bluesy riffs, gritty lyrics, and a raw, almost punk-like energy. B-Side Gems from the Bon Scott Era "Carry Me Home" (1977, B-side of "Dog Eat Dog...

The Forgotten Gems Of Rock Opera

  Beyond Tommy and Queen: The Forgotten Gems of Rock Opera When we hear the term rock opera, the mind rushes to The Who’s Tommy or Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody. These iconic works set the bar for theatrical storytelling in rock, blending narrative arcs with sonic drama. But the history of rock opera is far more sprawling — and littered with hidden gems, misunderstood masterpieces, and B-side anthems that echo with raw storytelling power. Today, we dive into the lesser-known world of rock operas that dared to go big — and sometimes got lost in the noise. What Is a Rock Opera, Really? Rock operas are more than just concept albums. They're musical stories with characters, plots, and themes that unfold across an album — or even several. Unlike a concept album, which might explore a theme, a rock opera tells a story. Born in the late '60s and nurtured through the '70s and beyond, the genre blended the rebellious energy of rock with the theatrical weight of opera. But while Tommy an...

Wired For Revolution

  Wired for Revolution: How Rock’s B-Sides Demanded the Evolution of Sound “On the B-side, rock didn’t just play louder — it invented the tools to make louder possible.” There’s something about the B-side — that rougher, less-polished space where bands got weird, raw, and brutally honest. Free from the pressure of commercial hits, they stretched out, turned knobs too far, and often broke the rules... and sometimes the equipment. But here’s the twist: rock didn’t just shape culture — it reshaped the very tools used to make it. Especially through B-sides, where freedom led to experimentation, and experimentation led to evolution. Let’s plug in. The Guitar Couldn’t Take It When rock got louder, dirtier, and fuzzier, traditional guitars and amps just couldn’t cope. B-sides became a playground where sonic rebellion reigned. Take the Rolling Stones’ eerie B-side “Child of the Moon” — swirling psych-rock wrapped in distortion and reverb. That ghostly tone? It pushed engineers to experimen...