“The best band you’ve never heard of” is probably the most common description of this group of hard-working musicians that were behind most of the biggest hits of the 60s and 70s. They were so good at what they did they earned the nickname “the Wrecking Crew”.
This funny, bittersweet, and frankly mind-blowing documentary was put together by Dean Tedesco, the son of the late guitarist Tommy Tedesco, whose guitar has been heard on everything from the Beach Boys hits to the theme song for Bonanza to the soundtrack for Jaws. Dean made this doc as a tribute to his late father back in 2008, but the movie was only released this year after clearing the rights to the many songs in the film.
The movie is not only a tribute to Tommy, Carol Kaye, and the rest of the crew; it’s an insight into the life of a studio musician, into the workings of a music studio, and into music history itself. It’s a must see for any musician and lover of classic American rock and roll. I would recommend watching this, followed by another great doc, the bittersweet “Muscle Shoals“, and ending with Dave Grohl’s own studio tribute, “Sound City“. Then go watch “Love & Mercy“, the Brian Wilson biopic. There’s your weekend movie viewing right there, you’re welcome!
Imdb description of the Wrecking Crew
Official Trailer:
