Hi guys, my name is Tom, Tom Petty. What did you say? Petting?? No, Petty. I lived in Gainesville, a nice little place in Florida, America. But let's not digress; today I'm here to talk to you about this not-so-recent album of mine called "Damn The Torpedoes". Being a simple, honest, and balanced guy, very attached to the roots of my land and American rock, in 1979 I felt the need to make this nice revival record to remind you that rock (the real one) is not underground yet. Now try putting on "Refugee", the opening track, and you'll see I'm not lying. My friend Mike (Campbell) and I jump right in with this old-time rock ballad. I must say that the other "Heartbreakers" aren't joking around either. In "Here Comes My Girl" I let myself be cradled by the memory of the sixties, but when I want, I pull out a nicely angry little voice. "Even The Losers" is among my favorites and, if you will, it reflects exactly my personality and my homeland; a good southern rock. But let's move on to "Century City" which is a great driving track to launch yourself at full speed on your motorcycle across the southern lands without knowing exactly where to go. "Don't Do Me Like That", which everyone tells me is my chart-topping hit, is actually a bouncy rock song with a touch of Hammond that will grab you from the first listen. When you're about to head home at sunset after a hard day's work in the fields (ahem, office), put on "You Tell Me" and it will be as if I'm welcoming you to my home.
If you still have some energy left and want to jump into a truly American dance, "What Are You Doin' In My Life?” is just what you need. With the last track of the album, I'll surely get you and maybe even move you a little (I'm a bit moved myself) with this beautiful country piece that talks about land, women, and sun and women and land and women...
Well, I hope I've convinced you...
I wanted to thank:
The Heartbreakers, Bob, Warren, Johnny, mom (I promise I won't speed with the bike anymore), God, America, Southern Comfort (I know, but mom won't let me drink the stronger stuff), and everyone who loves me.
Thanks Tom
The beginning is simply devastating: 'Refugee,' 'Here Comes My Girl,' and 'Even The Loser' are songs of surprising beauty.
Tom Petty would find greater fame 10 years later with 'Full Moon Fever,' but already by the '70s, we could place him on the same level as the Boss without any problem.