Five of the best from T-Rex

• Electric Warrior (1971) - This album is often regarded as T. Rex's best work and includes hits like "Get It On" (also known as "Bang a Gong (Get It On)"), which significantly boosted their popularity.
• The Slider (1972) - Featuring songs like "Telegram Sam" and "Metal Guru," this album continued the band's success and solidified their status in the glam rock scene.
• Tanx (1973) - While it didn't reach the same heights as its predecessors, "Tanx" still produced popular tracks and maintained T. Rex's commercial viability.
• T. Rex (1970) - This self-titled album included hit singles that contributed to their rise in popularity during the early 1970s.
• Bolans Zip Gun (1975) - Although it marked a decline in their commercial success compared to earlier works, it still achieved respectable sales and featured tracks like "Light of Love."

1. Electric Warrior (1971)

Released in 1971, Electric Warrior is one of the most defining albums of the glam rock era. Led by frontman Marc Bolan, the album features a distinctive blend of rock, pop, and boogie, helping the band move away from their earlier folk influences and cementing their place in rock history. With its catchy hooks, smooth guitar riffs, and Bolan's unique vocal style, Electric Warrior was a commercial and critical success.

The album includes one of T. Rex's biggest hits, "Get It On" (also known as "Bang a Gong (Get It On)"), which became a staple of 1970s rock music. Bolan's use of electric guitar, combined with lyrical themes that mix romance and mysticism, makes this album stand out. Electric Warrior topped the UK charts and has had a lasting influence on future rock and glam bands. The album's production, energy, and Bolan's charisma make Electric Warrior a must-listen for fans of 1970s rock music and anyone exploring the origins of glam rock

2. The Slider (1972)

The Slider (1972) is a key album in the evolution of glam rock, solidifying Marc Bolan and his band as major figures in the genre. Following the success of Electric Warrior, The Slider delivers more of Bolan's signature sound: catchy guitar riffs, playful lyrics, and his unmistakable vocal delivery. The album was a commercial hit, particularly in the UK, where it reached high chart positions and produced some of T. Rex's most enduring tracks.

Produced by Tony Visconti, the album showcases a refined blend of rock and pop, driven by Bolan’s confidence as both a performer and songwriter. The Slider helped push T. Rex to international fame, with its mix of energetic and introspective songs. Bolan’s distinct style and use of electric guitar continue to influence rock musicians.

For fans of 1970s rock and glam, The Slider is essential listening, highlighting the peak of T. Rex's influence on the music scene.

3. Tanx (1973)

Released in 1973, Tanx marked a shift in T. Rex's sound as Marc Bolan explored new musical directions beyond the glam rock formula that had brought the band massive success. While still retaining elements of glam rock, the album introduced funk, soul, and orchestral arrangements, reflecting Bolan's desire to evolve musically. Though it did not achieve the same commercial success as Electric Warrior or The Slider, Tanx still charted well in the UK and maintained the band's strong fan base.

Bolan’s songwriting on Tanx delves into darker, more complex themes, with a mixture of rock ballads and upbeat tracks. The production, handled once again by Tony Visconti, is lush and layered, adding depth to the album's experimental feel.

For fans of T. Rex and 1970s rock, Tanx represents a transitional period for the band, highlighting Marc Bolan's willingness to take creative risks while still delivering the signature T. Rex sound.

4. T. Rex (1970)

Released in 1970, T. Rex marked a pivotal moment for Marc Bolan as his band transitioned from the acoustic, folk-driven sound of Tyrannosaurus Rex to the electric glam rock style that would define their later success. This self-titled album was the first to fully embrace electric guitars and rock arrangements, moving away from the duo’s earlier psychedelic folk roots. It laid the foundation for T. Rex's rise in the early 1970s.

With catchy melodies, Bolan's distinctive voice, and more mainstream appeal, the album introduced listeners to the emerging glam rock scene. Though not as commercially successful as Electric Warrior, T. Rex still resonated with audiences, giving the band their first chart success in the UK. The album showcases Bolan’s growing confidence as a rock frontman and hints at the direction T. Rex would take in the coming years.

For fans of classic rock and glam rock, T. Rex is an essential listen, capturing the band’s transformation into a leading force in 1970s rock music.

5. Bolans Zip Gun (1975)

Released in 1975, Bolans Zip Gun departed from T. Rex’s earlier glam rock dominance as Marc Bolan experimented with funk and R&B influences. This album reflects Bolan’s attempt to adapt to changing musical trends while maintaining his signature style. The sound is more polished and leans heavily on funk grooves, showing his growing interest in American music. Despite this stylistic shift, the album struggled commercially compared to earlier releases.

Though Bolans Zip Gun did not match the massive success of Electric Warrior or The Slider, it remains an important part of the band’s discography, illustrating Bolan’s willingness to take risks creatively. The album received mixed reviews then but has gained recognition over the years for its adventurous production and distinct sound.

For fans of T. Rex, Bolans Zip Gun represents a period of transition, offering a glimpse into Marc Bolan's evolving artistry during the mid-1970s rock scene.