The Untold Story of Les Pattinson: The Bass Guitarist of Echo and the Bunnymen
Introduction
Les Pattinson is a well-known name in the world of alternative rock music. He is widely recognized for his unique bass guitar skills, which helped shape the sound of the iconic band Echo and the Bunnymen. Despite being an important member of the band, little is known about Les Pattinson’s personal life and contribution to the band’s success. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the untold story of Les Pattinson and his journey with Echo and the Bunnymen.
Early Life and Musical Influences
Les Pattinson was born on April 18, 1958, in Liverpool, England. He grew up in a working-class family and was heavily influenced by the music of The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and The Kinks. Les started playing the bass guitar at the age of 14 and quickly developed a passion for music.
Formation of Echo and the Bunnymen
In 1978, Les Pattinson joined forces with Ian McCulloch, Pete de Freitas, and Will Sergeant to form Echo and the Bunnymen. Les’s bass guitar became an integral part of the band’s sound, which was characterized by a mixture of post-punk and new wave elements. The band’s debut album, “Crocodiles,” was released in 1980 and became a huge commercial success, propelling Echo and the Bunnymen to international fame.
Les Pattinson’s Contributions to Echo and the Bunnymen’s Sound
Les Pattinson played a pivotal role in shaping the unique sound of Echo and the Bunnymen. His bass guitar was an integral part of the band’s music, providing the rhythmic foundation for their songs. Les’s influences included artists such as Paul McCartney, John Entwistle, and Chris Squire, which can be heard in his melodic and innovative bass lines. Les’s musical contributions to the band’s sound have been widely recognized by fans and critics alike.
The Band’s Success and Tours
Echo and the Bunnymen’s success continued throughout the 1980s, with the release of albums such as “Heaven Up Here,” “Porcupine,” and “Ocean Rain.” Les Pattinson played an important role in the band’s live shows, contributing to their energetic and dynamic performances. Echo and the Bunnymen’s tours were highly anticipated and greatly enjoyed by fans around the world.
The Final Years of Echo and the Bunnymen
The band went through several lineup changes over the years, but Les Pattinson remained a constant member until their breakup in 1993. The band reunited in 1997 and released several albums in the following years, but Les opted out of the reunion due to personal reasons. Despite this, his contributions to the band’s legacy remain an essential part of their history.
FAQs
1. What genre of music do Echo and the Bunnymen play?
Echo and the Bunnymen play a mix of post-punk and new wave music.
2. What albums did Les Pattinson play on?
Les Pattinson played on all of Echo and the Bunnymen’s studio albums, from “Crocodiles” (1980) to “Reverberation” (1990).
3. What were some of Les Pattinson’s musical influences?
Les Pattinson was influenced by artists such as Paul McCartney, John Entwistle, and Chris Squire.
4. Why did Les Pattinson leave Echo and the Bunnymen?
Les Pattinson left Echo and the Bunnymen after their breakup in 1993 due to personal reasons.
5. Has Les Pattinson played in any other bands?
Les Pattinson has not played in any other notable bands besides Echo and the Bunnymen.
6. What is Les Pattinson’s musical style like?
Les Pattinson’s musical style is characterized by melodic and innovative bass lines.
7. What was Echo and the Bunnymen’s most successful album?
Echo and the Bunnymen’s most successful album is “Ocean Rain,” which was released in 1984.
Conclusion
Les Pattinson’s contribution to Echo and the Bunnymen’s sound cannot be overstated. His innovative bass guitar playing helped create the band’s unique post-punk and new wave sound, which continues to inspire musicians around the world. Despite leaving the band after their breakup, Les’s legacy lives on through the band’s music and his influence on the rock music genre. Next time you listen to Echo and the Bunnymen, take a moment to appreciate the talented Les Pattinson and his contributions to the band’s success.