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The Rolling Stones in the press: “Hot summer on Main St.” (by Norm Jopling)

EXILE ON MAIN ST.: RAW AND UNFILTERED
The Rolling Stones’ Exile on Main St. got major props in Record Mirror back in ’72, called a “Hot summer on Main St.” Critics loved its raw, messy energy—way different from polished albums before. Packed with rock, blues, soul, and gospel, it perfectly captured the chaos, grit, and rebellious spirit of the Stones during a wild, turbulent period. Pure, unfiltered rock that still hits hard decades later.

*From the Record Mirror, England, June 3 1972

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‘Hot Summer on Main St.’: The Rolling Stones’ Raw Breakthrough

The Exile on Main St. album by The Rolling Stones received a memorable review in Record Mirror in 1972 (“Hot summer on Main St.”), marking a significant moment for the band’s career. The review praised the album for its raw, unpolished sound, noting that it was a departure from the more polished productions of the past. The album, recorded during a tumultuous period for the band, was lauded for its blend of rock, blues, soul, and gospel, capturing the gritty, chaotic energy that defined the Stones’ spirit.

The review also highlighted the album’s dense, layered production, which reflected the band’s evolving style. Critics noted that while Exile on Main St. might be harder to digest than previous records, its complexity and authenticity were what made it a true masterpiece. Tracks like Tumbling Dice and Happy were singled out for their infectious rhythms and memorable hooks.

Despite the challenges the band faced during the recording—particularly their time in exile in France—the Record Mirror review acknowledged Exile on Main St. as a bold, fearless album that solidified The Rolling Stones’ place as rock’s most influential band. The review’s recognition of the album’s depth and significance was prophetic, as Exile on Main St. is now considered one of the greatest albums of all time.

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