Album Info
| Artist: | Melanie |
| Album: | The Best ... |
| Released: | Australia, 1976 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Somebody Loves Me | 2:27 |
| Written-By - Ballard MacDonald, Buddy G. De Sylva, George Gershwin | ||
| A2 | Beautiful People | 3:35 |
| A3 | In The Hour | 3:04 |
| A4 | I Really Loved Harold | 4:05 |
| A5 | Any Guy | 2:50 |
| A6 | I'm Back In Town | 2:17 |
| B1 | What Have They Done To My Song Ma? | 4:02 |
| B2 | Lay Down (Candles In The Rain) | 3:46 |
| B3 | Peace Will Come (According To Plan) | 3:18 |
| B4 | Good Book | 2:33 |
| B5 | Babe Rainbow | 1:00 |
| C1 | Mr. Tambourine Man | 4:20 |
| Written-By - Bob Dylan | ||
| C2 | Carolina On My Mind | 3:37 |
| Written-By - James Taylor | ||
| C3 | Ruby Tuesday | 4:31 |
| Written-By - Jagger-Richards | ||
| C4 | Nickel Song | 3:04 |
| D1 | Christopher Robin | 2:35 |
| Written-By - A.A. Milne | ||
| D2 | Animal Crackers | 2:12 |
| D3 | I Don't Eat Animals | 2:10 |
| D4 | Psychotherapy | 4:55 |
| D5 | Leftover Wine | 4:42 |
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
Melanie Safka, known simply as Melanie, is a folk singer-songwriter who gained prominence in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Her album "The Best of Melanie," released in 1971, is a compilation that showcases her unique voice and songwriting prowess. This album is a delightful collection of her most beloved tracks, and it serves as a perfect introduction to her music for new listeners while also being a nostalgic trip for long-time fans.
The album features some of Melanie's biggest hits, including the iconic "Brand New Key," which became a chart-topping success. This song, with its catchy melody and playful lyrics, encapsulates the spirit of the early '70s and remains a staple of her repertoire. Another standout track is "Lay Down (Candles in the Rain)," which is a poignant reflection on love and hope, inspired by her experiences at the Woodstock Festival. The song's emotional depth and Melanie's heartfelt delivery resonate with listeners, making it a timeless classic.
Critical reception of "The Best of Melanie" has generally been positive, with many reviewers praising her distinctive voice and the sincerity of her songwriting. Major publications like Rolling Stone have recognized her contributions to the folk music scene, highlighting her ability to blend personal storytelling with universal themes. The album not only showcases her commercial hits but also reflects her artistic growth and the cultural significance of her work during a transformative era in music.
One interesting aspect of Melanie's career is her connection to the counterculture movement of the 1960s. She was part of the wave of artists who emerged during this time, and her music often addressed social issues and personal freedom. Her performances at festivals like Woodstock solidified her status as a voice of her generation. In fact, her live rendition of "Lay Down" at Woodstock is often cited as a defining moment in her career, capturing the essence of the peace and love ethos of the time.
The production of "The Best of Melanie" is noteworthy as well. The album was produced by the legendary producer and musician, Peter Yarrow of Peter, Paul and Mary fame. His influence can be felt throughout the album, as he helped to craft a sound that was both polished and authentic, allowing Melanie's voice to shine through. The arrangements are simple yet effective, often featuring acoustic guitars and gentle instrumentation that complement her lyrical storytelling.
In terms of awards, while "The Best of Melanie" itself may not have received specific accolades, Melanie has been recognized throughout her career with various nominations and honors. She was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2016, which speaks to her lasting impact on the music industry and her influence on future generations of songwriters.
Listening to this album can evoke a sense of nostalgia, as it captures a moment in time when music was a powerful form of expression and connection. Melanie's ability to convey deep emotions through her songs is a testament to her talent and artistry. For those who may not be familiar with her work, "The Best of Melanie" is an excellent starting point, offering a glimpse into the heart and soul of a remarkable artist.
In conclusion, "The Best of Melanie" is more than just a compilation; it is a celebration of a unique voice in music history. With its standout tracks and heartfelt lyrics, the album remains relevant and cherished by fans old and new. Whether you're revisiting Melanie's music or discovering it for the first time, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.