📰 New Pop Singles – Reviews : Jan. 1973
- Sweet
- Jan 13, 1973
- 2 min read
A one‑page Melody Maker roundup in which Chris Welch reviewed the week’s new pop singles, offering sharp, fast‑paced commentary on a diverse slate of early‑’70s releases. The column covered everything from singer‑songwriters and glam‑rock contenders to soul, MOR and emerging art‑rock acts, reflecting the eclectic state of the UK singles market at the start of 1973.
Publication: Melody Maker
Date: January 13, 1973
Format: One‑page single review
Writer: Chris Welch
A moment of early‑’70s chart variety, glam‑era momentum and brisk, personality‑driven music‑press critique.
đź“° Key Highlights
• Reviews of new singles from Harry Chapin, Gilbert O’Sullivan and Electric Light Orchestra
• Coverage of glam‑leaning acts including Sweet
• Commentary on Family, highlighting their evolving sound
• A blend of pop, rock, soul and MOR releases reflecting the broad UK market
• Melody Maker’s trademark mix of wit, brevity and sharp judgement
đź“° Overview
This page captures the UK singles landscape in early 1973 — a period where glam was rising, singer‑songwriters were flourishing, and British rock bands were experimenting with new textures and arrangements. Chris Welch’s column delivered quick, incisive takes on each release, balancing humour with informed critique. The feature stands as a snapshot of a week when the charts were defined by stylistic diversity and rapid turnover.
đź“° Source Details
Publication / Venue: Melody Maker
Date: January 13, 1973
Format: One‑page single review
Provenance Notes: Based on the original Melody Maker “New Pop Singles” column.
đź“° The Story
The reviews highlight:
• The continued strength of UK pop craftsmanship
• The growing presence of glam‑rock in mainstream singles
• The rise of sophisticated arrangements in early‑’70s rock
• A mix of established artists and new hopefuls competing for chart attention
• Melody Maker’s role as a tastemaker during a fast‑moving musical era
The tone is lively, witty and chart‑savvy — a critic surveying the week’s releases with confidence and personality.
đź“° Visual Archive
đź“° Closing Notes
A vibrant early‑’70s singles snapshot, “New Pop Singles” stands as a crisp record of the artists, sounds and shifting tastes shaping the UK charts in January 1973.
Comments