Mick Ronson (May 23, 1974) Slaughter on 10th Avenue Review - Rolling Stone

May 20, 1974

2 min read

A full album review from Rolling Stone magazine dated May 23, 1974, written by Ben Gerson, examining Mick Ronson’s debut solo album Slaughter on 10th Avenue

SOURCE DETAILS Publication: Rolling Stone Date: May 23, 1974 Country: United States Section / Pages: Album Review Writer: Ben Gerson

THE STORY The review assesses Mick Ronson’s first solo effort following his time as David Bowie’s guitarist. Gerson notes that while the album showcases Ronson’s strong guitar playing and arrangements, it lacks personal expression and depth. He highlights “Love Me Tender” as a strong opening track but criticises several songs as space-filling or underdeveloped, describing the overall record as more of a showcase for Ronson’s musicianship than a fully realized solo statement.

CONTEXT AND NOTES Released in 1974, Slaughter on 10th Avenue came at the height of Ronson’s fame as Bowie’s right-hand man (the Spiders from Mars era). This Rolling Stone review reflects the high expectations placed on him as a solo artist and the challenge of stepping out from Bowie’s shadow.

FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS Event: Album review of Mick Ronson’s Slaughter on 10th Avenue Era: 1974 – Post-Spiders from Mars solo debut Tone: Mixed / critical but respectful Photography: Black-and-white portrait of Mick Ronson Audience: American rock music readers

WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS A single-column review with a prominent photo of Mick Ronson at the top. The text is laid out in classic Rolling Stone style, offering a detailed and opinionated critique of the album’s strengths and shortcomings.

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