Faces

Formation

Faces, an English rock band, was formed in London in 1969 as a successor to the Small Faces after lead singer Steve Marriott departed to form Humble Pie. The remaining members—bassist Ronnie Lane, drummer Kenney Jones, and keyboardist Ian McLagan—recruited lead singer Rod Stewart and guitarist Ronnie Wood, both previously of the Jeff Beck Group. This lineup marked a significant shift, leading to the band's name change from Small Faces to Faces, reflecting the new members' stature and the fresh direction of the group.

Key Releases and Touring

The band quickly gained traction, releasing their debut album, "First Step," in 1970, followed by several other notable albums including "Long Player," "A Nod Is as Good as a Wink… to a Blind Horse," and "Ooh La La." Faces became known for their energetic performances and distinctive sound, blending hard rock with a touch of blues and folk influences. They toured extensively across Britain, Europe, and the USA from 1970 until their disbandment in 1975, solidifying their reputation in the rock scene.

Legacy

Despite their relatively short career, Faces left a lasting impact on rock music, influencing numerous bands and artists. Their unique blend of rock and roll, combined with Stewart's charismatic vocals and Wood's guitar work, helped define the sound of the early 1970s. The band's legacy continues to resonate, with compilations like "The Best of Faces: Good Boys… When They're Asleep…" and "Five Guys Walk Into a Bar..." celebrating their contributions to music.