If you like Big Star, and we most certainly do around these parts, then you probably know that Alex Chilton's counterpart in the band was one Chris Bell. The two were co-frontmen in the eventually doomed 1970's quartet, but not before they made some of the most formidable power pop that the world has ever known. After the band's demise, Chilton went on to a long solo career, and eventually reunited Big Star. Bell however, wasn't quite so lucky, and (sadly) died in a car crash at the much-to-young age of 27.
Before the unfortunate event, however, he managed to get one solo record down on tape, and it's a doozy. Hidden in the vaults for years, I Am The Cosmos was eventually released by Ryko in 1992, the record is a piece of pop mastery. It is all the parts of Big Star that Chilton was not, and illustrates perfectly why the two were such a solid songwriting team. Moreover, Chilton makes a guest appearance on the tune "You And Your Sister", and it's Big Star magic all over again.
Perhaps you've already heard the record, in which case you know exactly what we're talking about. But if you haven't heard it, and you heart some Big Star, then today's your lucky day. Chris Bell's I Am The Cosmos is a complete dose of the classic Big Star sound, recorded in the heart of the 70's . Check it out for yourself, and we think you'll agree that it's very, very, good.
