The Kessels’ Backstory
Part 1: The Forgotten Legends and Boston: A Hub of Punk and Beyond
In 2023, the belated release of "Loosen up with the Kessels" offered a rare glimpse into the hidden legacy of a band whose roots trace back through multiple transformations. This remarkable release, unearthed after decades, resurrected interest in a musical journey that began long before The Kessels and spanned the vibrant, tumultuous landscape of the Boston music scene.
Yet, this story is not just about one band. It echoes the broader phenomenon of influential club bands whose live performances shaped local scenes but whose legacies risk fading into obscurity. As time progresses, those who experienced these scenes grow older, memories become fragmented, and the vivid accounts of those nights in dimly lit, sweat-soaked clubs are lost. The fragility of oral histories underscores the need to document and preserve these significant cultural moments before they slip away entirely.
In the history of rock and roll, the spotlight often falls on bands with well-distributed vinyl records and chart-topping hits. Yet, the true heartbeat of music culture lies in the venues where legendary live performances took place. These bands, who may not have released full albums during their prime, were the soul of their cities, creating music that resonated deeply with their audiences and influenced generations to come.
In 1970s London, the pub rock movement brought raw, unfiltered energy back to live music. Dr. Feelgood, with Lee Brilleaux’s ferocious vocals and Wilko Johnson’s signature guitar style, became a cornerstone of this scene. Kilburn and the High Roads, led by the enigmatic Ian Dury, combined rock, jazz, and rhythm and blues to create a sound that was distinctly their own. At venues like The Tally Ho and The Marquee Club, these bands galvanized the local music scene, paving the way for punk rock.
Across the Atlantic, New York was experiencing its own musical upheaval. At iconic venues like CBGB and Max’s Kansas City, bands like Television and The Heartbreakers transformed the live music experience with their raw, aggressive performances. These clubs became the breeding grounds for punk rock, fostering a sense of community and rebellion that defined the era.
In Los Angeles, the Sunset Strip was alive with the sounds of groundbreaking bands performing at legendary venues like The Whisky a Go Go and The Roxy Theatre. The Nerves captured the spirit of power pop with their energetic live shows, while The Blasters brought rockabilly back to life with their intense performances. The Masque, a small underground club, was pivotal in the LA punk scene, hosting bands that would later become iconic.
Minneapolis was a hotbed of musical innovation in the late 70s and early 80s. The Suicide Commandos were trailblazers of the punk rock scene, known for their high-energy live shows at venues like First Avenue and The Longhorn. These bands influenced a new generation of musicians, laying the groundwork for the indie rock explosion.
Manchester was home to some of the most influential post-punk bands of the era. The Chameleons and Section 25 created atmospheric soundscapes that were brought to life in legendary venues like The Hacienda and The Electric Circus. These bands pushed the boundaries of live music, crafting performances that were both powerful and immersive.
In Sydney, bands like The Easybeats and Radio Birdman dominated the live music scene, performing at clubs that became iconic. Their high-energy shows and unique sounds left a lasting impact on Australian rock.
Among these legendary acts were bands like 007/Dub7 and The Kessels. Known for their dynamic live performances, these bands captured the essence of their local scenes. They may not have achieved widespread commercial success or released numerous albums, but their influence was deeply felt by those who witnessed their shows. Their music, often preserved in singles and compilations, remains a testament to their talent and the vibrant live music culture they helped create.
As time passes, the stories of these bands risk fading into obscurity. It’s crucial to document their histories, celebrate their contributions, and share their music with new generations. By doing so, we honor the spirit of these unsung heroes and ensure that their legacy endures.
In the ever-evolving landscape of music, the distinction between recorded music and live performances has profound implications on how artists are remembered. The promotion and distribution of recorded music through media channels—radio, television, and now streaming services—play a crucial role in sustaining public memory. Artists with substantial recorded output benefit from continued airplay and media coverage, keeping their music in the public ear. This ongoing exposure reinforces the artist's place in music history and helps new listeners discover their work.
In contrast, live performances are ephemeral by nature. A live show is a transient experience, existing only in the moment it occurs. While recordings of live performances can capture some of the magic, they rarely replicate the full energy and atmosphere of being present in the venue. For many local legends, their impact was felt most strongly in the immediacy of their live shows
### Boston: A Hub of Punk and Beyond (Continued)
The memories of legendary live performances are often kept alive through oral histories and personal anecdotes. While these stories can be powerful, they are inherently less permanent than recorded media. As generations pass, these oral histories can become fragmented or lost, leading to a gradual fading of the artist's legacy. Without substantial documentation or widespread media coverage, the memory of these live legends can become obscured over time.
The music industry itself tends to prioritize recorded music over live performances in terms of commercial viability. Record labels and producers focus on creating products that can be sold and distributed widely, often investing more resources into promoting albums than live shows. This commercial emphasis on recorded output further entrenches the public memory of artists with substantial discographies.
Boston’s music scene thrived in clubs like The Rathskeller (The Rat), The Channel, and The Underground. Bands like The Real Kids and Mission of Burma delivered explosive live performances that captivated local audiences. Among these local legends was 007/Dub7, a band that played a pivotal role in the Boston music scene of the early 1980s.
In the summer of 1980, Garry Miles and Lawrence LaFerla, who had played together since high school, formed 007. Steve Harrell, a jazz-trained Berklee dropout, placed a "players wanted" ad in the Boston Phoenix. His meeting with Dee Rail, another local musician, led to the formation of a band that seamlessly merged their material and influences. Inspired by punk icons like The Clash and Gang of Four, 007's early sound was characterized by raw energy and a stripped-down aesthetic.
But the band's music quickly evolved to incorporate elements of mod and ska, influenced by the UK's ska revival, driven by bands like The Specials. By 1981, 007 had become a formidable live act. Their performances were a whirlwind of punk, ska, and mod, attracting a diverse audience. They were known for their ability to blend genres effortlessly, creating a sound that appealed to punks, post-punks, and art rock enthusiasts alike. The band's live shows became more sophisticated with the addition of dub mixing and stage lighting and were often described as mesmerizing.
Dee Rail's growing interest in reggae led to another evolution in their sound. Moving away from punk bass lines, Rail's reggae-influenced rhythms were embraced by the band. Harrell's appreciation for reggae and ska further enriched their musical tapestry. By 1981/1982, contemporary dub elements had found their way into 007's music, adding another layer to their already eclectic sound.
### Part 3: Pivotal Moments and Internal Dynamics
A pivotal moment in their career came in 1982 when 007 opened for The Clash at the Cape Cod Coliseum. This high-profile gig provided significant exposure and the opportunity to perform before a large audience. The performance was well-received, with members of The Clash expressing admiration for 007's set. Mick Jones remarked that they "sounded like us," while Paul Simonon and Joe Strummer also offered positive feedback. This endorsement from their idols was a highlight for the band.
However, the departure of Dee Rail later that year marked a turning point. The band had to adapt, leading to the rebranding from 007 to Dub7. This name change was partly due to a trademark issue with United Artists, which had trademarked the number "007" in the music publishing world. The shift also signified an attempt to recalibrate their image and sound in the wake of Rail's departure.
As Dub7, the band continued to experiment, incorporating more dub elements and exploring a more spaced-out musical direction. Their live performances remained strong, but their identity began to blur. No longer fitting neatly into any specific scene in Boston, their sound became harder to categorize. This lack of a clear brand or context made it difficult to build a consistent following.
Their single "Gavel Groove," released around the end of 1982, reflected this experimental phase. The song's lyrics, inspired by a friend's experience of being bullied, aimed to convey social frustration and the impact of political decisions on individuals. Despite the band's enthusiasm for the song, the final mastered version came out sounding "small and tinny," a disappointment that underscored the challenges they were facing.
Internal dynamics also proved to be a source of tension. There was a struggle between those who wanted to pursue a more creative, spontaneous approach and those who sought commercial success. This creative tension, while sometimes beneficial, ultimately led to a lack of direction. The band's professionalization led to a sense of detachment from their original punk roots and the vibrant local scene they once thrived in.
Despite these challenges, the band continued to perform and record. Their participation in the Rock 'n' Roll Rumble in 1984 was a significant moment. They reached the finals, competing against The Schemers. Although they didn't win, the competition highlighted their talent and potential. However, the so-called "Rumble Curse" – a phenomenon where many bands that competed in the Rumble struggled to achieve broader success – seemed to affect them as well.
As the band continued to evolve, they eventually became known as The Kessels. This transformation marked a shift towards a more pop-oriented sound, characterized by melodic hooks and refined production. The song "Loosen up with the Kessels," recorded in the mid-1980s, exemplified this new direction. The recording, which had been shelved for decades, resurfaced in 2023 and was finally released, offering a glimpse into the band's later musical phase.
The process of restoring "Loosen up with the Kessels" was a labor of love. The master tape had been lost for over three decades and needed to be "baked" to stabilize it for playback. This intricate process involved carefully heating the tape to restore its playability, allowing the audio to be digitized and preserved. The song, with its catchy, infectious melody, showcased the band's ability to craft pop songs while retaining some of their new wave and punk roots.
### Part 4: Preservation Efforts and Tim O'Heir's Role
The Kessels phase, which occurred after the band was known as 007 and Dub7, is marked by a few significant events and highlights, primarily centered around the rediscovery and release of their previously shelved single, "Loosen up with the Kessels".
Rediscovery of a Lost Recording: The most significant event was the rediscovery of the master tape for "Loosen up with the Kessels" after it had been lost for over three decades. This tape, recorded in the mid-1980s, resurfaced after being forgotten in Boston.
The Recording of "Loosen up with the Kessels": The song "Loosen up with the Kessels" was recorded in 1986 at Polymedia Studio in Boston. The band, then known as 007/Dub7, meticulously crafted the song, spending hours honing it in the studio. The track was mixed by Tim O'Heir, who later received a Tony Award and a Grammy nomination for his work.
Initial Shelving of the Song: Despite the effort put into it, "Loosen up with the Kessels" was never released at the time of its recording. It was considered "too pop" for many of the indie radio stations in Boston. The band, known for their punk and new wave sound, was unable to reach their usual audience with this particular song, leading them to shelve it. The band broke up not long after.
Reconnecting through Social Media: The band members reconnected through social media. This reconnection eventually led to the rediscovery of the lost master tape.
Digitization and Restoration: The master tape was found and sent to Lawrence Laferla, the former singer of the Kessels. The tape was in need of restoration. The digitization process required a specialized technique called "baking" to make the tape playable. The Great Bear, a magnetic audiotape restoration expert in Bristol, UK, successfully restored the tape, making it possible for the song to be released.
Official Release in 2023: The remastered version of "Loosen up with the Kessels" was officially released in 2023. This marked the first time the song was available to a wider audience, after being shelved for 37 years.
Critical Acclaim: The song's release has garnered positive reviews, with critics noting its blend of new-wave and pop stylings, and its overall sense of nostalgia. It has been described as a "stunning blend between new-wave and pop stylings," and as a "radiant and melodically-driven slice of indie rock, with subtle psychedelic undertones".
Themes of the Song: "Loosen up with the Kessels" is about "unrequited love, tough love," with lyrics that were close to the bone for Lawrence Laferla. It reflects a moment of major transition in his life, with a desperate tone in the vocals. The song is also about caring about someone while also encouraging them to "go out and get around town," which actually means "please piss off".
Release of an Instrumental Version: An instrumental version of "Loosen up with the Kessels" was also released.
Band Members in The Kessels: The Kessels featured Steve Harrell on guitar, "Mr Kessel" on vocals (Lawrence Laferla), Matt Elmes on bass, and Garry Miles on drums.
Comparison to Other Artists: Critics and reviewers have compared the sound of "Loosen up with the Kessels" to that of Big Star, Kurt Vile, Eyelids, Elephant Stone, Robyn Hitchcock, New Order, and Juno Roome, suggesting the song fits into the indie pop realm.
Promotion: The release of "Loosen up with the Kessels" was part of a promotional campaign, including features on music blogs and inclusion on playlists.
### Part 5: Preserving the Legacy of 007/Dub7/Kessels
Tim O'Heir's Contributions: For this article, it’s noteworthy to highlight Tim O’Heir’s music career, which began with the recording and mixing of “Loosen up with the Kessels.” This was a significant milestone in his career as it marked his transition from commercial jingles to artistic production. Tim went from Polymedia (a jingle shop) to Boston’s coolest new studio, Fort Apache. The connection Lawrence LaFerla introduced Tim to Gary Smith of Fort Apache, beginning Tim’s long career producing at Fort Apache. Tim O'Heir's work includes collaborations with influential bands and artists such as Buffalo Tom, COME, Sebadoh, and J Mascis. He also worked on film and Broadway soundtracks.
Tim O'Heir's Notable Works:
- Sound Designer for the acclaimed 1995 American coming-of-age film KIDS.
- Nominated for a Tony Award for Best Sound Design for the 2015 Broadway musical Hedwig and the Angry Inch, which won the Tony Award for Best Revival Musical.
- Nominated for “Best Music” at the Independent Spirit Awards for his work on the soundtrack to the 2017 film The Little Hours.
- Soundtrack director of the movie The Farewell (2019), which won the Golden Globe Award for Best Foreign Language Film.
Restoration Efforts for "Loosen up with the Kessels":
- Rediscovery: The master tape for "Loosen up with the Kessels," recorded in 1986, was lost for over three decades before resurfacing.
- Digitization Challenges: The master tape required a specialized technique called "baking" to make it playable. The Great Bear, a magnetic audiotape restoration expert in Bristol, UK, successfully restored the tape.
- Final Mastering: After digitization, a final master was created by Sam Moses, completing the restoration process.
Live Recordings Restoration:
- Archival Audio: The band decided to release live audio from the early 1980s to create an online archive.
- Source Material: Recordings came from various sources, including a cassette tape recording of a show at the Cape Cod Coliseum on August 20, 1982.
- Digital Capture: The live audio from the Coliseum show was digitally captured from the original cassette tape.
- Audio Restoration: Tim Halle was responsible for restoring the live recordings for the album "007 Live In Boston And South Yarmouth: 1980, 1981, 1982." The recordings were made available for download in lossless formats to ensure high-quality listening.
Challenges and Considerations:
- Memory: Piecing together the band's history using old clippings, posters, and consulting with each other.
- Limited Data: The band members had very little data to work with, as they had not kept diaries or scrapbooks.
- Sound Quality: Some original recordings had sound quality issues. For instance, the single "Gavel Groove" sounded "small and tinny" after mastering.
- Tape Condition: The age and condition of the master tapes required specialized care and expertise to ensure successful retrieval and restoration.
### Revisiting the Phenomenon of Live Legends Fading in Public Memory
In the end, it’s the live performances—the sweat, the energy, the connection with the audience—that truly define the essence of rock and roll. These bands, with their unforgettable shows and local influence, remind us that great music is about more than just records; it’s about the moments that resonate long after the last note has been played.
As time passes, the stories of these bands risk fading into obscurity. The phenomenon of collective public remembering based on physical products versus the near-forgotten status of live local legends can be understood through the interplay of tangibility, archival nature, media influence, and the transient experience of live performances. Recorded music, with its lasting presence and tangible form, has a distinct advantage in maintaining an artist's legacy over time. In contrast, the ephemeral nature of live performances and the reliance on oral histories make it more challenging to preserve the memory of live local legends.
By acknowledging these dynamics, we can better appreciate the contributions of both recorded artists and live performers, ensuring that the rich tapestry of music history includes the voices of those who may otherwise be forgotten. The story of 007/Dub7/The Kessels is a testament to the enduring impact of live music and the importance of preserving these cultural moments for future generations.