Album Info
| Artist: | Leonard Cohen |
| Album: | Songs Of Leonard Cohen |
| Released: | Europe, 2016 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Suzanne | |
| A2 | Master Song | |
| A3 | Winter Lady | |
| A4 | The Stranger Song | |
| A5 | Sisters Of Mercy | |
| B1 | So Long, Marianne | |
| B2 | Hey, That's No Way To Say Goodbye | |
| B3 | Stories Of The Street | |
| B4 | Teachers | |
| B5 | One Of Us Cannot Be Wrong |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne, Australia (North of Northcote, between Thornbury & Reservoir)
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- Happy Listening!
Description
Leonard Cohen's debut album, "Songs of Leonard Cohen," was released on December 27, 1967, and it marked the beginning of a remarkable journey for one of the most revered singer-songwriters of the 20th century. This album is not just a collection of songs; it’s a profound exploration of love, loss, and the human condition, delivered through Cohen's deep, gravelly voice and poetic lyrics that resonate with listeners even today.
From the very first track, "Suzanne," listeners are drawn into Cohen's world. The song, inspired by a real woman named Suzanne Verdal, is a hauntingly beautiful piece that captures the essence of longing and spiritual connection. The imagery Cohen weaves is vivid and evocative, making it a standout track that has been covered by numerous artists over the years. It’s no wonder that "Suzanne" is often cited as one of his signature songs, and it set the tone for the introspective nature of the album.
Another highlight is "So Long, Marianne," a poignant farewell to a romantic partner that showcases Cohen's ability to blend personal narrative with universal themes. The song's melancholic melody and heartfelt lyrics create a sense of nostalgia that many listeners can relate to. It’s a testament to Cohen’s songwriting prowess that he can evoke such deep emotions with seemingly simple words.
The album also features the track "Master Song," which is a more complex and layered composition. Here, Cohen delves into themes of power dynamics in relationships, showcasing his knack for storytelling. The instrumentation throughout the album, primarily featuring acoustic guitar and subtle orchestration, complements Cohen's voice perfectly, allowing the lyrics to take center stage.
Critically, "Songs of Leonard Cohen" received a warm reception upon its release, though it didn’t achieve immediate commercial success. Over time, however, it has been recognized as a classic, often appearing on lists of the greatest albums of all time. Major publications like Rolling Stone and Pitchfork have praised the album for its lyrical depth and emotional resonance. In fact, it has been included in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's list of the 500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll, highlighting its cultural significance.
Cohen's unique blend of folk, pop, and literary influences set him apart from his contemporaries. His background as a poet is evident in the way he crafts his songs, often blurring the lines between music and poetry. This album laid the groundwork for his future works, establishing themes that would recur throughout his career, such as spirituality, existentialism, and the complexities of love.
Interestingly, Cohen was not initially a musician; he was a published poet and novelist before he turned to music. This transition is fascinating, as it shows how his literary background informed his songwriting. In interviews, Cohen often spoke about the challenges of moving from the written word to the musical form, but he managed to do so with remarkable success. His ability to convey profound truths through song has left a lasting impact on the music industry.
"Songs of Leonard Cohen" has also been recognized in various award nominations over the years, including being inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame. Cohen himself received numerous accolades throughout his career, including Grammy Awards and the prestigious Prince of Asturias Award for Literature, which further cements his legacy as a cultural icon.
In conclusion, Leonard Cohen's "Songs of Leonard Cohen" is more than just an album; it’s a timeless piece of art that continues to resonate with audiences around the world. Its exploration of the human experience through Cohen's unique lens is both haunting and beautiful. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to his music, this album is a must-listen, offering a glimpse into the soul of one of the greatest songwriters of our time. It’s a journey worth taking, and one that will leave you reflecting on the complexities of life and love long after the final note fades.
