Summer has traditionally been a time for great record releases for rock ‘n’ roll bands. The Rolling Stones’ classic “Aftermath” in June 1966 is among the most memorable of those efforts.

The Stones were already among the most popular bands in the world, resting just behind the Beatles during the British Invasion. But “Aftermath” signaled a new maturity in the Stones, musically. It was also the last time Brian Jones, a founding member of the band, would make a significant contribution to a record before his untimely death.

The signature “Paint It Black” was an instant hit single for the band. The song remains a favorite of rock fans of every generation because of its somewhat sinister tone and outside-looking-in message that was widely embraced by the western world’s growing youth movement.

Jones contributes impressively on sitar, while bassist Bill Wyman turns in one his finest performances. Keith Richards’ guitar playing carries the song with unmatched energy next to Mick Jagger delivering one of his defining moments on vocals. Charlie Watts, as usual, was flawless on drums.

But the album is much more than a one-hit wonder. “Stupid Girl” and “Under My Thumb” were massively popular, although controversial among some fans because of their sneering dig at women in troubled relationships. The criticism was not the last the  Stones would suffer as the later releases of “Black and Blue” and “Some Girls” caused quite a stir.

Nonetheless, the Stones were establishing their reputation as the bad boys of rock ‘n’ roll. And musically, no one could argue that the Stones had arrived with a record that carried lasting value.

Songs such as “High and Dry” and “Think” are additional gems on “Aftermath.” The Stones had ascended into a creative drive that was still faithful to the roots of rock ‘n’ roll without the lush experimentation of the Beatles. In fact, the Stones were producing gritty, street-anthems that widely appealed to Americans. And when the punk music explosion arrived a decade later, songs such as “Paint It Black” — in tone — stood as obvious influences for the “no future” generation.

Few records have lasting appeal, 30 and 40 years beyond their release, but “Aftermath” is one of those classics that can play over and over without losing its shine.

 

‰ David Palmer can be reached by e-mail at dpalmer@cullmantimes.com, or by telephone at 734-2131, ext. 213