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Leonard Cohen - Various Positions (LP) - 180g Vinyl

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$44.00
Condition:
New
Availability:
Available At Supplier. Ships in 2 - 4 weeks
Current Stock:
Original Release Year:
1984
Genre(s):
Rock, Pop, Folk Rock, Soft Rock, contemporary Folk
Format:
Vinyl Record LP
$44.00

Frequently Bought Together:

Leonard Cohen - Various Positions Vinyl Record Album Art
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Ex. GST

Album Info

Artist: Leonard Cohen
Album: Various Positions
Released: Europe, 24 Nov 2017

Tracklist:

A1Dance Me To The End Of Love
A2Coming Back To You
A3The Law
A4Night Comes On
B1Hallelujah
B2The Captain
B3Hunter's Lullaby
B4Heart With No Companion
B5If It Be Your Will


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  • Happy Listening!

Description

Leonard Cohen's "Various Positions," released in December 1984, marks a significant chapter in the Canadian singer-songwriter's illustrious career. This album, his seventh studio effort, showcases Cohen's evolving musical style and lyrical depth, blending elements of folk, pop, and synthesizer-based arrangements. Despite its initial lukewarm reception, "Various Positions" has since been recognized as a pivotal work in Cohen's discography, featuring some of his most enduring songs.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "Hallelujah," which has since become one of Cohen's most famous and frequently covered songs. The song's intricate lyrics and haunting melody have resonated with audiences worldwide, making it a staple in Cohen's repertoire. "Hallelujah" explores themes of love, loss, and redemption, encapsulating Cohen's ability to weave complex emotions into his music. The song's journey from relative obscurity to global acclaim is a testament to its enduring power and Cohen's masterful songwriting.

Another notable track is "Dance Me to the End of Love," which opens the album. This song, inspired by the Holocaust, uses the metaphor of dance to explore themes of love and mortality. The juxtaposition of its upbeat melody with its somber subject matter exemplifies Cohen's skill in blending contrasting elements to create profound musical experiences. The song has been widely appreciated for its poetic lyrics and has become a favorite among Cohen's fans.

"Various Positions" also includes "If It Be Your Will," a prayer-like ballad that highlights Cohen's deep spiritual reflections. The song's sparse arrangement and Cohen's solemn delivery create a meditative atmosphere, inviting listeners to contemplate themes of faith and surrender. This track, along with others on the album, showcases Cohen's ability to infuse his music with a sense of reverence and introspection.

The production of "Various Positions" marked a departure from Cohen's earlier, more acoustic sound. Produced by John Lissauer, the album incorporates synthesizers and more contemporary arrangements, reflecting the musical trends of the 1980s. This shift in production style was initially met with mixed reactions, with some critics and fans longing for the more stripped-down sound of Cohen's earlier work. However, over time, the album's production has been appreciated for its ability to complement Cohen's evolving artistic vision.

Despite its now-iconic status, "Various Positions" faced challenges upon its release. Columbia Records initially refused to release the album in the United States, deeming it commercially unviable. This decision was a significant setback for Cohen, who had to release the album through independent channels in the U.S. Nevertheless, "Various Positions" eventually found its audience and has since been reissued and celebrated as a crucial part of Cohen's legacy.

The album's cover art, featuring a black-and-white photograph of Cohen, reflects the introspective and contemplative nature of the music within. The simplicity of the cover contrasts with the complexity of the themes explored in the album, underscoring Cohen's ability to convey profound messages through understated means.

In conclusion, Leonard Cohen's "Various Positions" is a testament to his enduring talent as a songwriter and musician. The album's blend of poetic lyrics, diverse musical arrangements, and deep emotional resonance has solidified its place in Cohen's catalog as a significant and influential work. Tracks like "Hallelujah," "Dance Me to the End of Love," and "If It Be Your Will" continue to captivate listeners, demonstrating Cohen's unparalleled ability to explore the human condition through his music. Despite its initial challenges, "Various Positions" has rightfully earned its place as a beloved and essential album in Leonard Cohen's storied career.

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