Patti Smith - Outside Society (2LP)

Patti Smith's compilation album "Outside Society" was released on August 23, 2011. This album is a retrospective collection that spans her career from 1975 to 2007, featuring 18 tracks that highlight her evolution as an artist and her impact on the rock and punk music scenes.

"Outside Society" is not just a greatest hits album; it’s a carefully curated journey through Patti Smith's musical legacy. The album includes some of her most iconic songs, such as "Gloria," "Because the Night," and "Dancing Barefoot." Each track is a testament to her unique blend of poetry and rock, showcasing her ability to weave powerful narratives with raw, emotive music.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "Because the Night," co-written with Bruce Springsteen. This song became one of Smith's biggest hits and remains a staple in her live performances. Its inclusion in "Outside Society" serves as a reminder of her ability to create timeless music that resonates with audiences across generations.

The album also features "People Have the Power," a song that encapsulates Smith's enduring commitment to activism and social change. Released in 1988, this anthem of empowerment and hope is as relevant today as it was then, reflecting Smith's belief in the transformative power of music.

Critically, "Outside Society" was well-received, with reviewers praising its comprehensive selection of tracks that capture the essence of Patti Smith's career. Rolling Stone highlighted the album as a "powerful reminder of Smith's influence and artistry," while other publications noted the thoughtful sequencing of the tracks, which allows listeners to experience the evolution of her sound and lyrical themes.

One interesting aspect of "Outside Society" is that it includes liner notes written by Patti Smith herself. These notes provide personal insights into each song, offering fans a glimpse into her creative process and the stories behind the music. This personal touch adds depth to the listening experience, making the album not just a collection of songs, but a narrative of Smith's artistic journey.

The production of "Outside Society" was handled with care to ensure that the remastered tracks retained their original energy and authenticity. The album was produced by Lenny Kaye, Smith's longtime collaborator and guitarist, who has been an integral part of her sound since the beginning of her career.

In terms of cultural significance, Patti Smith is often referred to as the "punk poet laureate," and her work has had a profound impact on the punk and rock genres. Her fearless approach to music and her ability to blend poetry with rock have inspired countless artists and musicians. "Outside Society" serves as a testament to her enduring influence and her role as a trailblazer in the music industry.

Overall, "Outside Society" is a must-listen for both longtime fans of Patti Smith and newcomers to her music. It offers a comprehensive overview of her career, highlighting her most significant contributions to music and culture. Whether you're revisiting these classic tracks or discovering them for the first time, "Outside Society" is a powerful reminder of Patti Smith's legacy and her unwavering spirit as an artist.