Derek Smalls, the longtime bassist and self-proclaimed "lukewarm water" of British hard-rockers Spinal Tap, has announced his first solo album, Smalls Change.
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Derek Smalls, the longtime bassist and self-proclaimed "lukewarm water" of British hard-rockers Spinal Tap, has announced his first solo album, Smalls Change.
To call Smalls Change a strictly "solo" album though, would overlook its truly astounding guest list, which features (to name a few) Steve Vai, Joe Satriani, Peter Frampton, Dweezil Zappa, Steve Lukather, Jeff "Skunk" Baxter and Richard Thompson. When asked how he was able to recruit so much top-tier talent for the album, Smalls simply replied, "Pity fuck."
Smalls described the album—which is set for an April 13 release via Twanky/BMG—as "halfway between ‘rage against the dying of the light’ and trying to find the light.”
According to a press release, Smalls was able to fund the album through a grant from the British Fund for Ageing Rockers. Of the grant, Smalls said “At least austerity was good for something.”
You can see the album's full tracklist (complete with notes on each song from Smalls himself) below.
You can preorder Smalls Change here, via Pledge Music.
SMALLS CHANGE tracklist
1. Openture - Derek with The Hungarian Studio Orchestra
The philosophy of this record, expressed in fewer words than I’ve taken to almost describe it.
2. Rock 'n' Roll Transplant - Derek with Steve Lukather (guitar, Toto), drum legends Jim Keltner (George Harrison) and Chad Smith (Red Hot Chili Peppers)
Whatever might be ailing you, rock ’n’ roll is the cure. Ask Dr. Derek!
3. Butt Call - Derek with Phil X (guitar, Bon Jovi) and Taylor Hawkins (drums, Foo Fighters)
In one lifetime, the telephone has gone from a miracle to a pain in the arse.
4. Smalls Change - Derek with The Hungarian Studio Orchestra,