Ep 1. Pilot

The first season of Vinyl is a drama television show set in 1970s New York music scene. The opening episode, titled "Pilot," introduces us to the world of Richie Finestra, played by Bobby Cannavale. Richie is a music executive who has built his record company, American Century Records, from the ground up. The episode opens with Richie on the brink of a major decision that will alter the course of his career and life.

Driven by his passion for music, Richie has always been committed to finding the next big thing. But his company is struggling and his personal life is in shambles. He spends most of his time drinking, doing drugs, and cheating on his wife, Devon, played by Olivia Wilde. As he contemplates selling his company to German conglomerate Polygram, Richie experiences a life-changing event that makes him reevaluate his entire existence.

The first episode of Vinyl is a whirlwind of sex, drugs, music, and drama. We are introduced to a range of colorful characters, including Richie's right-hand man, Zak Yankovich (Ray Romano), and his assistant, Jamie Vine (Juno Temple). Jamie is a young woman looking to make her voice heard in a male-dominated industry, and her story adds a refreshing dimension to the show.

The episode also features several notable music performances, including an electrifying scene in which Richie watches New York Dolls perform at a club. The band's raunchy style and raw energy captures the essence of the 1970s music scene and sets the tone for the rest of the series.

Despite its edgy subject matter, Vinyl is ultimately a show about the human experience. It explores themes of greed, passion, and the cost of success. We see Richie grappling with his own desires and weaknesses, while also trying to navigate the cutthroat world of the music industry.

Overall, the first episode of Vinyl is a promising start to the series. It sets up a number of intriguing storylines and introduces us to a range of complex characters. The show's immersive setting and strong performances make it a must-watch for fans of drama, music, and 1970s culture.