Album Info
| Artist: | The Velvet Underground |
| Album: | The Velvet Underground |
| Released: | Europe, 16 Mar 2015 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Candy Says | 4:04 |
| A2 | What Goes On | 4:54 |
| A3 | Some Kinda Love | 4:03 |
| A4 | Pale Blue Eyes | 5:39 |
| A5 | Jesus | 3:23 |
| B1 | Beginning To See The Light | 4:40 |
| B2 | I'm Set Free | 4:04 |
| B3 | That's The Story Of My Life | 2:03 |
| B4 | The Murder Mystery | 8:54 |
| B5 | After Hours | 2:07 |
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
The Velvet Underground's self-titled third album, released in 1969, marks a significant evolution in the band's sound and approach, showcasing their willingness to experiment and push boundaries. Following the groundbreaking "The Velvet Underground & Nico" and the more polished "White Light/White Heat," this album presents a more introspective and melodic side of the band, while still retaining their avant-garde roots. It’s a record that often gets overshadowed by its predecessors, but it deserves its own spotlight for its unique contributions to rock music.
From the opening track, "Candy Says," the listener is greeted with a gentle, almost haunting melody that sets the tone for the album. Sung by Doug Yule, who had recently joined the band, the song is a poignant reflection on identity and longing, showcasing the band’s ability to blend personal narratives with universal themes. The lush instrumentation, featuring a soft guitar and delicate strings, creates an atmosphere that feels both intimate and expansive. This track alone is a testament to the band’s growth, as they explore softer dynamics while still maintaining their edge.
One of the standout tracks, "What Goes On," features a driving rhythm and a hypnotic guitar riff that captures the essence of the Velvet Underground’s sound. The song is a perfect example of how the band could fuse rock with a more experimental approach, creating a sound that feels both raw and polished. The interplay between the instruments is mesmerizing, and the repetitive structure of the song draws the listener into a trance-like state, a hallmark of the band’s style.
The album also includes the iconic "Pale Blue Eyes," a song that has become a fan favorite over the years. With its melancholic lyrics and beautiful melody, it’s a song that resonates deeply with anyone who has experienced love and loss. Lou Reed’s vocal delivery is tender and reflective, and the understated instrumentation allows the lyrics to shine. This track exemplifies the band’s ability to convey deep emotion through simplicity, a quality that has influenced countless artists in the decades since.
Another notable moment on the album is "Jesus," a track that showcases Reed’s lyrical prowess. The song’s themes of faith and doubt are explored with a raw honesty that is both refreshing and challenging. The instrumentation is sparse, allowing Reed’s voice and lyrics to take center stage. It’s a bold choice, and one that reflects the band’s willingness to tackle complex subjects without shying away from vulnerability.
The production of the album is worth mentioning as well. Produced by the band themselves, it has a more polished sound compared to their earlier works, yet it still retains that unmistakable Velvet Underground edge. The use of studio techniques, such as layering and reverb, adds depth to the tracks, creating a rich listening experience. The album was recorded at T.T.G. Studios in Hollywood, where the band experimented with different sounds and arrangements, resulting in a collection of songs that feel cohesive yet diverse.
Critically, the album received a mixed reception upon its release, with some praising its artistic ambition while others found it lacking the raw energy of their earlier work. However, over the years, it has been re-evaluated and is now often regarded as one of the band’s finest achievements. It has influenced a wide range of artists across genres, from indie rock to alternative music, and its legacy continues to grow.
In conclusion, The Velvet Underground’s self-titled album is a beautiful exploration of sound, emotion, and identity. It captures a moment in time when the band was transitioning into a new phase of their career, and it showcases their ability to innovate while remaining true to their roots. With standout tracks like "Candy Says," "What Goes On," and "Pale Blue Eyes," this album is a must-listen for anyone interested in the evolution of rock music. It’s a testament to the band’s enduring influence and a reminder of why they remain one of the most important acts in music history.
