Paul Kantner / Jefferson Starship - Blows Against The Empire (LP) - 180g Green Marble Vinyl

"Blows Against the Empire" is a seminal album released in 1970 by Paul Kantner and Jefferson Starship. This album is notable for being the first to use the "Jefferson Starship" moniker, although it is essentially a Paul Kantner solo project with a host of guest musicians from the San Francisco music scene. The album is a concept piece that tells the story of a group of people who steal a starship and leave a decaying Earth for a new life in space, reflecting the countercultural and utopian ideals of the time.

The album features contributions from several prominent musicians, including Grace Slick, Jerry Garcia, David Crosby, Graham Nash, and members of Jefferson Airplane. Grace Slick, Kantner's bandmate in Jefferson Airplane, plays a significant role, contributing vocals and piano. Jerry Garcia of the Grateful Dead adds his distinctive guitar work, while David Crosby and Graham Nash of Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young provide vocal harmonies.

"Blows Against the Empire" is often classified as a science fiction rock opera, and it was nominated for the Hugo Award for Best Dramatic Presentation in 1971, a rare honor for a music album. The album's narrative is inspired by Robert A. Heinlein's novel "Methuselah's Children," and it explores themes of rebellion, freedom, and the search for a better world.

The album opens with "Mau Mau (Amerikon)," a rousing call to arms that sets the tone for the rest of the record. The song features powerful vocals from Kantner and Slick, backed by a driving rhythm section and searing guitar work. The lyrics are a scathing critique of the political and social establishment, reflecting the revolutionary spirit of the late 1960s and early 1970s.

"Have You Seen the Stars Tonite?" is a more contemplative track, featuring lush harmonies and a dreamy, otherworldly atmosphere. The song invites listeners to look beyond the confines of their everyday lives and imagine the possibilities of space travel and exploration. Jerry Garcia's pedal steel guitar adds a cosmic touch to the track, enhancing its ethereal quality.

"Starship" is the album's centerpiece, a multi-part suite that tells the story of the starship's construction and launch. The song begins with a gentle acoustic section, featuring intricate guitar work and delicate vocal harmonies. As the track progresses, it builds to a powerful crescendo, with soaring vocals and a driving rhythm that captures the excitement and anticipation of the starship's journey.

"Blows Against the Empire" also features several shorter tracks that contribute to the album's narrative and thematic cohesion. "Hijack" is a tense, dramatic piece that describes the act of seizing the starship, while "Home" is a tender, introspective song that reflects on the concept of home and belonging. "XM" is an instrumental interlude that adds to the album's futuristic atmosphere, with its electronic sounds and spacey effects.

The album's production is a testament to the collaborative spirit of the San Francisco music scene. The musicians involved bring their unique talents and styles to the project, creating a rich, diverse sound that blends rock, folk, and psychedelia. The use of innovative studio techniques, such as multi-tracking and tape manipulation, adds to the album's otherworldly feel.

"Blows Against the Empire" is a landmark album that captures the idealism and creativity of its time. Its ambitious concept, innovative production, and stellar musicianship make it a standout in the discographies of Paul Kantner and Jefferson Starship. The album's themes of rebellion, exploration, and the search for a better world continue to resonate with listeners today, making it a timeless classic in the annals of rock music.