Album Info
| Artist: | Neil Diamond |
| Album: | Serenade |
| Released: | USA, 1974 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | I've Been This Way Before | 3:50 |
| A2 | Rosemary's Wine | 2:40 |
| Arranged By, Conductor - Sid Feller | ||
| A3 | Lady Magdelene | 6:57 |
| A4 | The Last Picasso | 4:23 |
| B1 | Longfellow Serenade | 3:50 |
| B2 | Yes I Will | 4:35 |
| B3 | Reggae Strut | 3:35 |
| B4 | The Gift Of Song | 2:22 |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne's North (Australia)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- All pictures of the second hand/used vinyl records are actual pictures of the album in stock.
- 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 cardboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- We almost always ship in stock vinyl next business day (excluding pre orders)
- 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
Neil Diamond's "Serenade," released in September 1974, is a testament to the singer-songwriter's ability to craft deeply emotional and resonant music. This album, his ninth studio effort, showcases Diamond's signature blend of pop, rock, and folk influences, and it stands as a significant entry in his extensive discography.
"Serenade" opens with the track "I've Been This Way Before," a song that immediately sets the tone for the album with its introspective lyrics and lush orchestration. This track, like many on the album, features Diamond's rich, baritone voice, which conveys a sense of earnestness and sincerity that has always been a hallmark of his music.
One of the standout tracks on the album is "Longfellow Serenade," which became a major hit for Diamond. The song reached number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number 1 on the Easy Listening chart, showcasing Diamond's ability to create music that appeals to a wide audience. "Longfellow Serenade" is notable for its poetic lyrics, inspired by the works of American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, and its catchy, melodic hooks.
Another highlight is "The Last Picasso," a song that blends introspective lyrics with a haunting melody. The track's arrangement, featuring strings and a gentle piano accompaniment, complements Diamond's reflective vocal delivery. This song, like many on the album, explores themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, which are recurring motifs in Diamond's work.
"Serenade" also includes the track "Lady Magdalene," a song that stands out for its gospel-influenced arrangement and powerful vocal performance. The song's spiritual undertones and uplifting message make it a memorable and impactful part of the album.
Critically, "Serenade" received positive reviews upon its release. Critics praised Diamond's songwriting and vocal performance, noting that the album showcased his growth as an artist. The production, handled by Tom Catalano, was also lauded for its polished and sophisticated sound, which helped to elevate the emotional impact of the songs.
In terms of historical and cultural significance, "Serenade" is an important album in Neil Diamond's career. It came at a time when Diamond was transitioning from his earlier, more pop-oriented work to a more mature and introspective style. This album helped to solidify his reputation as a serious and respected artist, capable of creating music that resonated with listeners on a deep emotional level.
While "Serenade" did not win any major awards, its commercial success and critical acclaim helped to further establish Neil Diamond as one of the leading singer-songwriters of his generation. The album's success also paved the way for Diamond's continued popularity throughout the 1970s and beyond.
In conclusion, Neil Diamond's "Serenade" is a beautifully crafted album that showcases the artist's ability to create music that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. With standout tracks like "Longfellow Serenade," "The Last Picasso," and "Lady Magdalene," the album remains a significant and enduring part of Diamond's discography. Its positive critical reception and commercial success are a testament to Diamond's talent and his ability to connect with listeners through his music.