Album Info
| Artist: | Cat Stevens |
| Album: | New Masters |
| Released: | UK & Europe, 9 Feb 2024 |
Tracklist:
| A | Canvas One | |
| A1 | Kitty | 2:23 |
| A2 | I'm So Sleepy | 2:23 |
| A3 | Northern Wind | 2:51 |
| A4 | The Laughing Apple | 2:39 |
| A5 | Smash Your Heart | 3:02 |
| A6 | Moonstone | 2:18 |
| B | Canvas Two | |
| B1 | The First Cut Is The Deepest | 3:01 |
| B2 | I'm Gonna Be King | 2:30 |
| B3 | Ceylon City | 2:29 |
| B4 | Blackness Of The Night | 2:31 |
| B5 | Come On Baby (Shift That Log) | 3:53 |
| B6 | I Love Them All | 2:12 |
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Description
Cat Stevens' second studio album, New Masters, released in December 1967, is an intriguing chapter in the artist's early career. Coming off the success of his debut album, Matthew and Son, Stevens was still in the process of finding his unique voice and style. New Masters showcases a young artist experimenting with his sound, blending pop sensibilities with hints of the introspective songwriting that would later define his career.
One of the standout tracks on the album is "The First Cut Is the Deepest", a song that has since become a classic, covered by numerous artists over the years. Stevens' original version is heartfelt and raw, capturing the emotional depth of the lyrics. It's fascinating to hear this song in its original form, knowing the impact it would go on to have in the music world. The song's enduring appeal is a testament to Stevens' songwriting prowess, even at this early stage in his career.
The production on New Masters is lush and polished, characteristic of the late 1960s pop scene. The arrangements often feature orchestral elements, giving the songs a grand, cinematic quality. However, some critics at the time felt that the production overshadowed Stevens' voice and lyrics, which were the true strengths of his music. Listening to the album today, it's clear that while the production is of its time, it also adds a certain charm and nostalgia to the record.
Tracks like "Kitty" and "Northern Wind" highlight Stevens' ability to craft catchy melodies and memorable hooks. There's a youthful energy to these songs that makes them enjoyable, even if they don't quite reach the emotional depth of his later work. The album as a whole feels like a snapshot of an artist in transition, experimenting with different styles and ideas as he searches for his true artistic identity.
New Masters didn't achieve the commercial success of Stevens' debut album, and it marked the end of his initial pop phase. After this album, Stevens took a break from music to recover from a bout of tuberculosis, a period that would prove to be transformative for him both personally and artistically. When he returned to music in the early 1970s, it was with a completely new sound and approach, leading to the creation of iconic albums like Tea for the Tillerman and Teaser and the Firecat.
Looking back, New Masters is an important piece of Cat Stevens' discography. It offers a glimpse into the early stages of his career and the development of his songwriting. While it may not be as celebrated as his later works, it holds its own charm and significance. For fans of Cat Stevens, it's a fascinating listen that provides context for the evolution of one of the most beloved singer-songwriters of his generation.
