Album Info
| Artist: | Leonard Cohen |
| Album: | Songs From A Room |
| Released: | Europe, 2016 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Bird On The Wire | |
| A2 | Story Of Isaac | |
| A3 | A Bunch Of Lonesome Heros | |
| A4 | The Partisan | |
| Written-By - Anna Marly, Hy Zaret | ||
| A5 | Seems So Long Ago, Nancy | |
| B1 | The Old Revolution | |
| B2 | The Butcher | |
| B3 | You Know Who I Am | |
| B4 | Lady Midnight | |
| B5 | Tonight Will Be Fine |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne, Australia (North of Northcote, between Thornbury & Reservoir)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post.
- Free Shipping for orders $150 and over.
- You can also pick up your order in store, just select Local Pickup at the checkout.
- We also ship internationally - prices vary depending on weight and location.
- We ship vinyls in thick, rigid carboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- In stock vinyl is usally shipped next business day, please check the availability field at the top of the product page to see whether the record is currently in stock or if it is available from the supplier as well as estimated shipping times.
- If you order an in stock item together with a pre order or back order (listed as available from supplier rather than in stock) then the order will be shipped together when all items arrive. If you would like the in stock items shipped first please place two separate orders or contact us to arrange shipping items separately.
- We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn't arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record.
- If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store.
- You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at info@funkyduckvinyl.com
- Happy Listening!
Description
"Songs From a Room" is the second studio album by Canadian singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen, released in April 1969 by Columbia Records. Following the success of his debut album, "Songs of Leonard Cohen," Cohen continued to explore themes of love, loss, and existential contemplation in this follow-up effort. The album is often noted for its stark, minimalist production and introspective lyrics, which have cemented its place in the canon of folk music.
The album opens with "Bird on the Wire," one of Cohen's most enduring songs. The track features a simple yet haunting melody, accompanied by Cohen's gravelly voice and sparse instrumentation. The lyrics, which speak of personal freedom and redemption, have resonated with listeners for decades and have been covered by numerous artists, including Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson.
"Story of Isaac" is another standout track, drawing on biblical themes to explore the complexities of faith and sacrifice. The song's narrative structure and vivid imagery showcase Cohen's talent as a storyteller, while the acoustic arrangement underscores the song's somber tone.
"A Bunch of Lonesome Heroes" and "The Partisan" continue the album's exploration of themes related to war and resistance. "The Partisan," in particular, is notable for its historical context, as it is a cover of a French Resistance song from World War II. Cohen's rendition, with its mournful delivery and evocative lyrics, pays tribute to the resilience and courage of those who fought against oppression.
The album also delves into more personal territory with songs like "Seems So Long Ago, Nancy" and "You Know Who I Am." "Seems So Long Ago, Nancy" tells the tragic story of a woman who takes her own life, while "You Know Who I Am" is a more introspective track that grapples with themes of identity and self-awareness.
One of the more unique tracks on the album is "The Old Revolution," which blends political commentary with personal reflection. The song's cryptic lyrics and unconventional structure make it one of the more challenging listens on the album, but it also rewards repeated listens with its depth and complexity.
"Songs From a Room" was produced by Bob Johnston, who had previously worked with artists like Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash. Johnston's production is characterized by its stripped-down, intimate feel, which allows Cohen's voice and lyrics to take center stage. The album's arrangements are sparse, often featuring little more than acoustic guitar, harmonica, and occasional backing vocals. This minimalist approach serves to highlight the emotional weight of Cohen's songwriting.
Upon its release, "Songs From a Room" received mixed reviews from critics, some of whom found it less accessible than Cohen's debut. However, the album has since been re-evaluated and is now considered a classic of the singer-songwriter genre. Its influence can be heard in the work of countless artists who have been inspired by Cohen's poetic lyrics and distinctive voice.
In conclusion, "Songs From a Room" is a deeply introspective and emotionally resonant album that showcases Leonard Cohen's talents as a songwriter and storyteller. Its minimalist production and haunting melodies create a sense of intimacy that draws the listener in, while its themes of love, loss, and resistance continue to resonate. Though it may not have been as immediately accessible as his debut, "Songs From a Room" has stood the test of time and remains a vital part of Cohen's discography.
