Album Info
| Artist: | Steppenwolf |
| Album: | Steppenwolf |
| Released: | Europe, 14 Jan 2013 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Sookie Sookie | 3:09 |
| Written-By - Don Covay | ||
| A2 | Everybody's Next One | 2:53 |
| Written-By - Gabriel Mekler, John Kay | ||
| A3 | Berry Rides Again | 2:45 |
| Written-By - John Kay | ||
| A4 | Hootchie Kootchie Man | 5:07 |
| Written-By - Willie Dixon | ||
| A5 | Born To Be Wild | 3:28 |
| Written-By - Mars Bondfire | ||
| A6 | Your Wall's Too High | 5:40 |
| Written-By - John Kay | ||
| B1 | Desperation | 5:35 |
| Written-By - John Kay | ||
| B2 | The Pusher | 5:43 |
| Written-By - Hoyt Axton | ||
| B3 | A Girl I Knew | 2:38 |
| Written-By - John Kay, Morgan A. Cavett | ||
| B4 | Take What You Need | 3:28 |
| Written-By - Gabriel Mekler, John Kay | ||
| B5 | The Ostrich | 5:43 |
| Written-By - John Kay |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 211 High St, Preston in Melbourne, Australia (North of Northcote, between Thornbury & Reservoir)
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- Happy Listening!
Description
"Steppenwolf," the debut album by the Canadian-American rock band Steppenwolf, was released in January 1968. This album is a seminal work in the rock genre, often credited with helping to define the sound of late 1960s rock music. The band, formed in late 1967, consisted of John Kay (vocals, guitar), Michael Monarch (lead guitar), Rushton Moreve (bass guitar), Goldy McJohn (organ, piano), and Jerry Edmonton (drums).
The album opens with the track "Sookie Sookie," a high-energy song that sets the tone for the rest of the record. Written by Don Covay and Steve Cropper, it showcases the band's ability to blend blues and rock seamlessly. The song's driving rhythm and catchy chorus make it an excellent introduction to Steppenwolf's sound.
One of the standout tracks on the album is "Born to Be Wild," which has since become an anthem of the counterculture movement and a staple of classic rock radio. Written by Mars Bonfire, the song's lyrics and powerful guitar riffs capture the spirit of rebellion and freedom that defined the era. The phrase "heavy metal thunder" from the song is often cited as the first use of the term "heavy metal" in rock music, highlighting its influence on the genre.
Another notable track is "The Pusher," written by Hoyt Axton. This song takes a darker turn, addressing the issue of drug addiction with a raw and unflinching honesty. John Kay's gritty vocals and the band's haunting instrumentation create a powerful and somber atmosphere. "The Pusher" has been praised for its bold social commentary and remains one of Steppenwolf's most impactful songs.
"Steppenwolf" also features "Desperation," a track that showcases the band's versatility. The song's slower tempo and introspective lyrics provide a contrast to the more aggressive tracks on the album. Goldy McJohn's organ playing adds a layer of depth to the song, demonstrating the band's musical range.
"Your Wall's Too High" is another highlight, with its bluesy guitar riffs and John Kay's soulful vocals. The song's lyrics explore themes of isolation and emotional barriers, resonating with listeners on a personal level. The band's tight musicianship and dynamic arrangements are evident throughout the track.
The album closes with "The Ostrich," a song that addresses social and political issues with a satirical edge. The track's upbeat tempo and catchy melody make it an engaging end to the album, while its lyrics encourage listeners to question authority and think critically about the world around them.
"Steppenwolf" was produced by Gabriel Mekler, who played a significant role in shaping the band's sound. Mekler's production emphasizes the raw energy and authenticity of Steppenwolf's music, capturing the essence of their live performances. The album's production quality has been praised for its clarity and balance, allowing each instrument to shine.
Upon its release, "Steppenwolf" received positive reviews from critics and quickly gained commercial success. The album peaked at number 6 on the Billboard 200 chart, and "Born to Be Wild" reached number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. The success of the album helped establish Steppenwolf as one of the leading rock bands of the late 1960s.
In conclusion, "Steppenwolf" is a landmark album that has left a lasting impact on the rock genre. Its blend of blues, rock, and social commentary, combined with the band's powerful performances, make it a timeless classic. The album's standout tracks, including "Born to Be Wild" and "The Pusher," continue to resonate with audiences today, cementing Steppenwolf's legacy in the annals of rock history.
