Album Info
| Artist: | Graham Parker |
| Album: | Howlin' Wind |
| Released: | Australia, 1977 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | White Honey | |
| A2 | Nothin's Gonna Pull Us Apart | |
| A3 | Silly Thing | |
| A4 | Gypsy Blood | |
| A5 | Between You And Me | |
| A6 | Back To Schooldays | |
| B1 | Soul Shoes | |
| B2 | Lady Doctor | |
| B3 | You've Got To Be Kidding | |
| B4 | Howlin' Wind | |
| B5 | Not If It Pleases Me | |
| B6 | Don't Ask Me Questions |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne's North (Australia)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- All pictures of the second hand/used vinyl records are actual pictures of the album in stock.
- We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post.
- Free Shipping for orders $150 and over.
- You can also pick up your order in store, just select Local Pickup at the checkout.
- We also ship internationally - prices vary depending on weight and location.
- We ship vinyls in thick, rigid cardboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- We almost always ship in stock vinyl next business day (excluding pre orders)
- We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn't arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record.
- If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store.
- You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at info@funkyduckvinyl.com
- Happy Listening!
Description
Graham Parker's debut album, "Howlin' Wind," released in 1976, is a seminal work that marked the arrival of a distinctive voice in the rock and roll landscape. Produced by Nick Lowe, the album is a vibrant blend of rock, R&B, and soul, showcasing Parker's raw energy and lyrical prowess. At a time when punk was beginning to take hold, "Howlin' Wind" offered a different kind of rebellion, one rooted in the traditions of classic rock and roll but infused with a fresh, biting edge.
The album opens with the title track, "White Honey," which immediately sets the tone with its driving rhythm and Parker's gritty vocals. The influence of American R&B is evident throughout the album, with tracks like "Soul Shoes" and "Back to Schooldays" highlighting Parker's ability to channel the spirit of his musical influences while crafting something uniquely his own. The Rumour, Parker's backing band, provides tight, energetic support, with Brinsley Schwarz and Martin Belmont's guitars adding a sharp, melodic edge to the arrangements.
One of the standout tracks on the album is "Don't Ask Me Questions," a song that combines Parker's knack for storytelling with a powerful, gospel-inflected chorus. The song's lyrics reflect Parker's frustration with societal norms and personal relationships, themes that resonate throughout the album. "Howlin' Wind" is also notable for its production, with Nick Lowe's influence evident in the album's crisp, punchy sound. Lowe's production helps to highlight the dynamic interplay between Parker and The Rumour, creating a sound that is both polished and raw.
Critically, "Howlin' Wind" was well-received upon its release, with many reviewers praising Parker's songwriting and the album's energetic performances. It was seen as a promising debut that positioned Parker as a significant new talent in the music scene. The album's blend of rock and soul, combined with Parker's distinctive voice and incisive lyrics, set it apart from many of its contemporaries. While it did not achieve massive commercial success, "Howlin' Wind" has since been recognized as an influential work that helped pave the way for the pub rock and new wave movements of the late 1970s and early 1980s.
In terms of cultural significance, "Howlin' Wind" captures a moment in time when rock music was undergoing significant changes. Parker's music, with its roots in traditional rock and roll and R&B, offered a counterpoint to the emerging punk scene, providing a bridge between the past and the future of rock music. The album's themes of disillusionment and rebellion resonated with listeners who were looking for authenticity and passion in their music.
Over the years, "Howlin' Wind" has been re-evaluated and appreciated for its contribution to the rock genre. It is often cited as one of the best debut albums of its era, and its influence can be heard in the work of many artists who followed in Parker's footsteps. The album's enduring appeal lies in its combination of strong songwriting, passionate performances, and a sound that remains fresh and engaging decades after its release.
In conclusion, "Howlin' Wind" is a landmark album that introduced Graham Parker as a formidable talent in the music world. Its blend of rock, R&B, and soul, combined with Parker's incisive lyrics and The Rumour's dynamic backing, make it a standout work that continues to resonate with listeners. While it may not have achieved the commercial success of some of its contemporaries, its critical acclaim and lasting influence ensure its place in the pantheon of great rock albums.