The Kinks - The Kinks Are The Village Green Preservation Society (3LP + 3CD + 3x7")

"The Kinks Are The Village Green Preservation Society," released in 1968, is often hailed as one of The Kinks' most enduring and beloved albums. Despite its initial commercial failure, the album has since gained a cult following and is considered a quintessential piece of British rock history. It marked a departure from the band's earlier, more commercially successful work, showcasing Ray Davies' songwriting prowess and his ability to craft vivid, nostalgic narratives.

The album is a concept piece that reflects on themes of nostalgia, the passage of time, and the loss of innocence. It paints a picture of an idyllic English village, capturing the essence of a simpler, bygone era. This thematic focus was a stark contrast to the prevailing trends in rock music at the time, which were leaning towards more psychedelic and experimental sounds. Instead, "The Village Green Preservation Society" embraced a more traditional, pastoral sound, with influences from British folk music and music hall traditions.

One of the standout tracks is the title song, "The Village Green Preservation Society," which serves as a manifesto for the album's themes. It lists various elements of British culture and society that the narrator wishes to preserve, from "little shops" to "virginity." The song's whimsical and satirical tone sets the stage for the rest of the album, which continues to explore similar themes with songs like "Do You Remember Walter?" and "Picture Book."

"Picture Book" is another highlight, with its catchy melody and reflective lyrics about looking back at old photographs and memories. The song's upbeat tempo and infectious chorus make it one of the more accessible tracks on the album, and it has since been used in various media, further cementing its place in popular culture.

The album's critical reception at the time of release was mixed, with some critics praising its lyrical depth and musical craftsmanship, while others were less enthusiastic about its departure from the band's earlier sound. However, over the years, "The Village Green Preservation Society" has been re-evaluated and is now considered a masterpiece. It is often cited as a major influence on later artists and bands, particularly those in the Britpop movement of the 1990s, who admired its quintessentially British themes and sound.

In terms of cultural significance, the album captures a moment in time when British society was undergoing significant changes. The late 1960s were a period of social upheaval and transformation, and "The Village Green Preservation Society" can be seen as a reaction to these changes, a longing for a simpler, more stable past. This sense of nostalgia and yearning for preservation resonates with listeners even today, making the album timeless in its appeal.

Despite not winning any major awards at the time of its release, "The Village Green Preservation Society" has been recognized in various "greatest albums" lists over the years. It is often included in discussions of the greatest albums of all time, and its influence on subsequent generations of musicians is widely acknowledged.

In conclusion, "The Kinks Are The Village Green Preservation Society" is a landmark album that showcases Ray Davies' unique songwriting talent and the band's ability to create a cohesive and evocative musical narrative. Its themes of nostalgia and preservation continue to resonate with listeners, and its influence on British music is undeniable. Though it may not have achieved commercial success upon its release, its legacy has only grown with time, solidifying its place as a classic in the rock music canon.