Album Info
| Artist: | Cat Stevens |
| Album: | Catch Bull At Four |
| Released: | Germany, 2022 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Sitting | |
| A2 | Boy With A Moon & Star On His Head | |
| A3 | Angelsea | |
| A4 | Silent Sunlight | |
| A5 | Can't Keep It In | |
| B1 | 18th Avenue | |
| B2 | Freezing Steel | |
| B3 | O Caritas | |
| B4 | Sweet Scarlet | |
| B5 | Ruins |
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Description
Cat Stevens' 1972 album Catch Bull at Four represents a fascinating chapter in the artist's storied career. Released on September 27, 1972, this record followed the immense success of Teaser and the Firecat and Tea for the Tillerman, albums that had cemented Stevens as a leading figure in the singer-songwriter movement of the early 1970s. With Catch Bull at Four, Stevens took a slightly different approach, exploring deeper themes and incorporating a more diverse range of musical styles, while still maintaining the introspective and poetic lyricism that had become his hallmark.
The album's title is a reference to the Ten Bulls, a series of Zen Buddhist poems and illustrations that depict the stages of a practitioner's progression towards enlightenment. This philosophical underpinning is reflected in the album's lyrics, which often delve into themes of self-discovery, spirituality, and the search for meaning. Stevens was known for his interest in spirituality and mysticism, and Catch Bull at Four is a testament to his ability to weave these themes into his music in a way that feels both personal and universal.
Musically, the album sees Stevens experimenting with a richer and more layered sound. While his earlier works were often characterised by their acoustic simplicity, Catch Bull at Four incorporates more elaborate arrangements and a wider array of instruments. Tracks like "Sitting" and "Can't Keep It In" showcase this evolution, with their dynamic structures and vibrant energy. "Sitting", the album's opening track, is a standout, with its introspective lyrics and compelling melody. "Can't Keep It In", on the other hand, is an exuberant and uplifting song that captures the joy and urgency of expressing oneself.
Another highlight of the album is "Angelsea", a track that combines a driving rhythm with evocative lyrics and a haunting melody. The song's unique sound is a testament to Stevens' willingness to push the boundaries of his musical style. Similarly, "18th Avenue (Kansas City Nightmare)" is a dramatic and cinematic piece that showcases Stevens' storytelling abilities and his knack for creating vivid imagery through his music.
Catch Bull at Four was a commercial success, reaching number one on the charts in the United States, Canada, and Australia, and solidifying Stevens' status as a global superstar. The album's success was a reflection of its ability to resonate with listeners on a deep and emotional level, as well as its innovative and adventurous approach to songwriting and production.
While Catch Bull at Four may not have the same iconic status as Tea for the Tillerman or Teaser and the Firecat, it remains a vital and compelling part of Cat Stevens' discography. It captures a moment of artistic growth and exploration, and its themes of self-discovery and spiritual searching continue to resonate with listeners to this day. For fans of Stevens' music, as well as those who appreciate thoughtful and introspective songwriting, Catch Bull at Four is an album that deserves to be revisited and celebrated.
