HBO’s ‘Vinyl’: An Illustrated Review of Season 1 Episode 3, ‘Whispered Secrets’
Indiewire has commissioned artist Jess Rotter to draw her reactions to the new HBO drama “Vinyl,” which features Bobby Cannavale as a record executive in search of personal salvation as well as the next big music sensation.
READ MORE: HBO’s ‘Vinyl’: An Illustrated Review of Season 1 Episode 2, ‘Yesterday Once Again’
The noses keep on snortin’ and the belts are tightened as American Century Records’ demise is affecting all involved. In an attempt to trim the fat on some of the artists on the label, Richie decides a Christmas album will bring in the big stacks. He also drops most of the label’s artists, but keeps Johnny Winters (because he is an albino, of course).
To stay relevant and busy, housewife Devon gets involved in fundraising: When she can’t play her role in dropping cash for an event, she makes the decision to sell her unsigned Andy Warhol portrait/gift, a gutting move that says goodbye to her Factory party past. Meanwhile, after being inspired by two old men poking fun at a DJ Kool Herc, Lester decides it’s time to go back to what he knows best: playin’ the music. But the highlight of this power hour was definitely Clark trying to scheme Alice Cooper into signing with his label, only to be fooled by the godfather of shock rock, who humiliates the hapless A&R guy with a guillotine prop that was used for his show. We should also mention – a certain body has been found…
Informed by a deep knowledge and love for the world of 1970s rock ‘n’ roll, artist Jess Rotter was inspired by her dad’s vinyl covers and comic books growing up in New York. Now based in Los Angeles, Rotter’s intricate hand-drawn psychedelic illustrations have appeared on everything from books to public murals to album covers. Her musical cult shirt line Rotter and Friends has led to official band merch for acts like The Grateful Dead, Sly Stone, Rodriguez, Big Star, Mavis Staples and more. Follow her on Instagram at @rotterandfriends.
“Vinyl” airs Sunday at 9pm on HBO.
