Album Info
| Artist: | The Long Ryders |
| Album: | State Of Our Union |
| Released: | Australia & New Zealand, 1985 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Looking For Lewis And Clark | |
| A2 | Lights Of Downtown | |
| A3 | WDIA | |
| Featuring - Snake Davis And His Longhorns | ||
| Guitar [Pedal Steel] - Vic Collins | ||
| A4 | Mason-Dixon Line | |
| A5 | Here Comes That Train Again | |
| A6 | Years Long Ago | |
| B1 | Good Times Tomorrow, Hard Times Today | |
| B2 | Two Kinds Of Love | |
| B3 | You Just Can't Ride The Boxcars Anymore | |
| B4 | Capturing The Flag | |
| B5 | State Of My Union |
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
"State of Our Union," released in 1985, is the second studio album by the American band The Long Ryders. Known for their fusion of country rock and alternative rock, The Long Ryders were part of the Paisley Underground movement, which sought to revive the sounds of the 1960s with a modern twist. "State of Our Union" is often considered one of their most accomplished works, showcasing their ability to blend traditional Americana with a punk rock ethos.
The album opens with "Looking for Lewis and Clark," a track that immediately sets the tone with its driving rhythm and jangly guitars. This song, which became one of the band's signature tracks, is a tribute to the spirit of exploration and adventure, both literal and metaphorical. The energy and urgency of the song capture the essence of The Long Ryders' sound, which is both nostalgic and forward-looking.
"State of Our Union" was produced by Will Birch, known for his work with bands like The Records and Dr. Feelgood. Birch's production brings a crispness and clarity to the album, allowing the intricate guitar work and harmonies to shine. The album's sound is a testament to the band's influences, which range from The Byrds and Gram Parsons to punk rock pioneers like The Clash.
One of the standout tracks on the album is "Lights of Downtown," a song that combines a catchy melody with introspective lyrics. The song's themes of longing and searching for meaning resonate with listeners, and its infectious chorus makes it a memorable highlight. Another notable track is "WDIA," which pays homage to the influential Memphis radio station known for its role in promoting African American music. This track underscores the band's appreciation for the roots of rock and roll and their desire to honor its history.
The Long Ryders' ability to blend different musical styles is evident throughout "State of Our Union." Songs like "Capturing the Flag" and "State of My Union" showcase their knack for storytelling, with lyrics that reflect on American life and identity. The band's use of traditional instruments like the banjo and pedal steel guitar adds depth to their sound, creating a rich tapestry of musical influences.
Critically, "State of Our Union" was well-received upon its release. It was praised for its authenticity and the way it captured the spirit of Americana. The album's success helped The Long Ryders gain a wider audience, particularly in the UK, where they found a receptive fan base. Although the album did not achieve significant commercial success in the United States, it has since been recognized as an important work in the alt-country genre.
The cultural significance of "State of Our Union" lies in its role in the evolution of alternative country music. The Long Ryders, along with bands like R.E.M. and The Replacements, helped pave the way for the alt-country movement of the 1990s, influencing artists such as Uncle Tupelo and Wilco. The album's blend of rock and country elements set a precedent for future musicians looking to explore the intersections of these genres.
In summary, "State of Our Union" is a landmark album that captures the essence of The Long Ryders' sound and vision. Its combination of energetic rock and heartfelt Americana makes it a timeless piece of music history. The album's influence can still be felt today, as it continues to inspire new generations of musicians who seek to blend the old with the new. For fans of the Paisley Underground movement and alt-country music, "State of Our Union" remains an essential listen.
