Got to finally see The Wrecking Crew last night as part of the Vancouver International Film Festival. I went in with no expectations and was both greatly entertained and informed. The film is not just a history lesson about who played on what song, but delves into the personalities of the various musicians of The Wrecking Crew, including Hal Blaine, Carol Kaye, Tommy Tedesco, Glen Campbell, Earl Palmer, Plas Johnson, Al Casey, Joe Osborn, and many others. It is pointed out that there were many musicians involved, in the range of between 20 to 30, but the focus is on the main core.
The film brings a wonderful perspective of its director, Denny Tedesco, who is the son of the legendary guitarist Tommy Tedesco. He grew up with his dad as a musician, who left in the morning to go to work, but was not really aware of the significant role his father was playing in the music industry. He only got to know the other players during the making of this documentary.
The Wrecking Crew is playing the festival circuit internationally, and I highly recommend that you go to the website and check to see if it will be playing anywhere near you. From music fans to industry pros, this is a must see movie documenting a key period in pop and social culture of the late 50s and 60s. I loved it! I would also love to see the soundtrack released in a box set, complete with ALL the accurate credits for the musicians who played on so many hit songs of The Righteous Brothers, Frank Sinatra, The Beach Boys, The Association, Gary Lewis & The Playboys, The Monkees, and so many more. What a historical music document that would make! It would also finally set the record straight.
I was also really pleased to connect with Denny Tedesco. Denny got in touch with me prior to coming to Vancouver to do media publicity interviews for the movie and the film festival and we arranged to get together. Over appetizers and drinks after the screening, we had a great time talking about the making of the movie and the long and at times, difficult path it took to actually get the movie made. He told me there will be lots more when the movie is released on DVD, a bonus disc with more interviews than time allowed for in the movie. Can't wait.
My hats off and much appreciation to Denny Tedesco for making this film, and as a result of getting together after the show, I've made a new friend.
And be sure to visit The Wrecking Crew for much more information on the movie, the musicians and the songs.
