Heroin is probably my favorite track on the whole thing. It paints such a vivid picture of addiction. I've been struggling with an addiction for a little while so it cuts like a knife every time I hear it, but it's a solid reminder to myself that I can't allow myself to slip into that state again. Thanks for everything, Lou.
This is a "band's band." The are (were) a huge influence on many rock bands. Their music was, literally, revolutionary at that time. Listen to it within the context of the time and you'll find it phenomenal. They have been my favorite band ever since I first heard them over 40 yrs ago.
They're the face of influence pretty much. They've influenced and inspired literally thousands of bands our most loved ones to the unheard ones to be different thats how different they were. Today's age needs a velvet underground.
John Cale was to Velvet Underground what David Gilmour was to Pink Floyd. PD: Nico’s vocal contribution is also one to be praised. “Femme Fatale” and “I’ll be your mirror” are two high points in this record.
Aladdin Sane by David Bowie Remain in Light by Talking Heads Radiohead's Ok Computer Joy Division's Unknown Plesaures Pink Floyd's Animals. There are a lot of classics to review yet, dude.
VU IS the most important band ever period end of story. They were punk before there was punk they were completely and totally indie before there was indie. I still listen to them almost daily.
@@TheeStoicc I know right, it definitely has a late 60's vibe, but it sounds so fresh and unique and it doesn't feel dated at all. If anything it's one of those albums where it's age makes even exceed in quality.
Felipe Syderas 2 years too late, but wanted to say my thoughts on it. That song is so amazing. The song has a purpose, and that purpose is to make you feel that giddyness and that anxiousness you get in that situation. You want “your man” to get there. The ways the guitars work and the beat. Its so amazing.
Could you review Definitely Maybe by Oasis? I grew up with Oasis being my favorite band of all time and they still are so I recognize my immense bias when speaking about this album. There are a lot of people who consider it the greatest british album like ever haha so I just would like to hear a relatively unbiased review. Much Love
Acquiex that's a great idea! Though perhaps I'm biased as I bought that album recently, I think it's one of the best british albums of all time - I'd put it in the top 5.
I bought this album when I was 15 and I still love it. I've chilled out on Velvet Underground a little bit over the years, but this is my favorite album they've done.
yeah, it's easy to make yourself a little sick of stuff when you've been listening to it for that long. dead kennedys is definitely like that for me to an extent.
loved everything you said in this video it definitely has me listening with a different mindset. I just bought the album because i really enjoyed "Sunday Morning" and i wanted to "feel" the album as a whole. much to my surprise all the songs are COMPLETELY different. At first listen i was taken back and was unsure if i liked it or not. "Heroin" in particular gave me an uneasy feeling and i wasn't sure if the music was enjoyable. (also that song is 7 minutes! HolySHIT 7 minutes of emotional ups and downs) but now giving it a second thought, i think its incredible that music can move you this much.
it's definitely one to sit with. there's tons of people who hate it on first listen and never go back to it. All 4 of their albums are really incredible btw, it's arguably the best 4-album-run ever imo. White Light/White Heat is ma faaav tho.
You're not gonna like this album until u start getting into punk, new wave, and alternative music. When you do, you'll realize this is where it all started and only then will u appreciate it fully
This album is in my top ten albums of all time. Heroin is a song that is and always will be one of my favorite songs, and I absolutely love every track on this, from Sunday Morning to European Son. The segments of Nico's violin-fueled proto-noise Rock type playing are my favorites of the album, mostly because noise rock is arguably my absolute favorite genre of all time (Dinosaur Jr is my favorite band, so it's only natural).
This is without a doubt one of my favorite albums of all time, and 'Heroin' is a particular favorite. I love how it keeps building and getting faster and faster and crazier as it goes on, eventually turning into some kind of psychobabble when it breaks down.
How about the wild child younger cousin of 'Pet Sounds', the sublime revolutionary pop of 'Eli and the Thirteenth Confession' (1968) by the Bronx genius Laura Nyro. The main theme of Side 2 is sex - 'my lovers mouth been good to me, it promised joy for a jailhouse' (Women's Blues). Or 'super ride inside my lovething..love my lovething' (The Confession). And the first lesbian love pop song (Emmie).Nyro passed 1997 from cancer, inducted into the Rock Hall of Fame 2012. See Todd Rundgren's and Elton John's discussion of Nyro and her album. Her 3rd LP 'New York Tendaberry' (1969) was placed No.63 this week on Pitchfork's best 200 LP's of the 1960's. The Velvets and Nico was rated No.1 and Pet Sounds No.2.
Kid A would be a great choice for classic week or Animals by Pink Floyd... But man, Velvet undergound and nico is along with those two in my favorites of all time!
Only if he does the mono mix, otherwise, he's going to criticize the production and not give it a fair rating. The mono mix came out an entire month before the stereo, has a lot more effects ("Flaming", "Pow R Toc H), a heavier sound, better mixing and balance, and even more instrument parts (e.g. the organ intro in "Interstellar Overdrive"). In fact, I'd say it's the most state-of-the-art and professional mono mix ever produced in the 60's (tying with The Beatles' albums, of course). And it's the number one 60's album with the biggest differences between mono and stereo. A LOT moreso than "Sgt. Pepper's". It's the one Syd Barrett actually was involved with mixing. The stereo mix was done without any band members and was rushed in 8 hours just using the bare elements. When you claim to be the Internet's busiest music nerd, you have to know this stuff. This mixing differences are common knowledge among the really big aficianados. Peter Jenner, their manager at the time, has gone on record saying the mono mix was the real version of the album. To be honest, I fear Fantano giving this album a review at all. He'll just end up trashing it, and of course, criticizing the mix without hearing the mono. My best educated guess is he'll give it a 6. An 8 at the very best. For me, it's an easy 10/10. If he's literally going to give Death Grips' "The Money Store" his best rating, but not this, I'll lose any amount of respect I have for him.
I personally love it. That guitar sound hasn't left my head since i first heard it. It's like a fever dream. I also love Sister Ray, which is even "noisier" but man they sound like the greatest band of all time on that track. They deserved so much and got so little.
I listened to this album for the first time early in my college days and it honestly ended up changing me completely. I had been a music nerd for some time before that, but VU was a band I just hadn't quite "got around to" yet. First time I heard it, I wasn't so sure. But I couldn't stop listening and re-listening to it. It was a slow burning love at first, but one that's lasted a long time and its still in many ways my benchmark for anything outside the mainstream. This album changed my perspective on music forever.
Pshhhhhhhhh I just listened to this album for the first time and had to remind myself that it wasn't Canadian art rock from the 90's. Seriously this is crazily ahead of its time. Also the first time I heard Nico's voice I thought it was Lou singing with a gay lisp.
Nice to see you're putting your favorite/least favorite tracks in the description! This is one of my favorite albums of all time, too bad it kind of falters on the last 2 tracks. Still a 10/10 in my eyes, Heroin and I'm Waiting for the Man are among my favorite songs ever.
This is one of my favorite reviews of yours, Anthony. Not only is this probably my favorite album of all time and it's always great to hear it get talked about positively, but you just conveyed all your points really well.
I love that you're doing another classic's week, and I know that you surely have all your albums picked out already. But please, PLEASE do a Radiohead album.
Listened to this album a couple times. Didn't like it on my first couple of listens but whats fascinating about this album is that with each new listen, I gain an appreciation for a different song. Heroine, Venus in Furs, Sunday Morning and Run run run are fantastic tracks. I still have not been able to appreciate the album as a whole yet, but I feel like there is a strong possibility that I will eventually.
If suggestions are even necessary (if not I'll just list these anyway) Siamese Dream has aged very well with its shoegaze and dream pop elements that really established alternative rock for the time. I also think one of Outkast's earlier records specifically the first 3 are seminal classic hip-hop listens. Each one had a lot of intricate wordplay, lavish production, and fantastic hooks.
Mex Zesty I will agree with you about Siamese Dream. I would also add that the Verve's A Storm in Heaven aged incredibly well with elements of shoegaze, psychedelia, post rock, dream pop and jazz.
It's intresting you suggest Outkast's first 3 albums, because if it was me I'd have picked Stankonia to review as a classic. Although to be fair aquemini would work just as well. Siamese Dream is a great shout too! Such a faultless album!
Yeezy Smalls Stankonia is great and it's Outkast's last true album, but Idk Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik, ATLiens, and Aquemini (my personal favorite obviously) just really seem to hit me in the right spot.
***** I have always thought Outkast has been the most musically talented Hip Hop duo or have made some of the best Hip Hop in general. Biggie was amazing R.I.P., and like Fantano said Eminem is still very "technically proficient" which has him almost on par with Big Boi and Dre as far as his producing goes (I don't think Dr. Dre produced Marshal Mathers LP 2 but correct me if I'm wrong).
Very good review! Our feelings toward that record seem so alike! As in how tracks like "All Tomorrow's Parties", and "Venus and Furs" have this ancient, ominous vibe of sorts, as if playing at the background of some subversive gathering.
I don't really understand how European son is his Lear favorite song on the album. It's definitely a little long to the point where the constant aggression gets excessive and exhaustive and can get over wrought but I think that's what it's going for. It's an offensive experience in sonic violence in a death grips kinda way
One thing that contributes to Sunday Morning being so gorgeous sounding, is it was slightly sped up. well maybe not sped up, put pitch shifted, one of those. either way. Great review. I found you before watching the drunken peasants, but was glad to see you appear on there as well.
Paisley I think it was. Lou Reed's voice sounded way too high, even on the rest of the album he didnt sound nowhere near like that. And when you try to play along to it on guitar you cant quite find the right pitch. Because it was pitch shifted. And oh god you again. Communism > Bittersweet Symphony
Paisley Thats a possibility, but why werent the rest of the songs on the album online i listened to pitch shifted? Anyways, im also a VU fan, and i wouldnt call myself an expert, i have a decent amount of knowledge on them, and i dont have proof it was pitch shifted, but ive seen other people suggest it as well. You can listen to Lou's old records "Cycle Annie, "The Ostrich", "Your Love" etc... and those were the days when he actually really tried to sing, and did it fairly successfully, but still it didnt sound anything like his voice on Sunday Morning. Ive seen people suggest that someone else sang on it, and thats complete bullshit, you can tell by the word phrasing and delivery its Lou, but something is off about it. Still a beautiful song either way.
My next suggestions Talk Talk - Spirit of Eden or Laughing Stock REM - Murmur or Automatic for the People Portishead - Dummy or Massive Attack - Blue lines
If you're a fan of The Velvet Underground you may have already checked out Lou Reed's great solo albums, but have a listen to John Cale's Paris 1919 for a truly underrated masterpiece.
At different times of my life I have called every album of theirs my favorite, but as I get older I think this one has the best of all their varied stylistic shifts.
interesting that you notice the Dylan influence. In fact there is an acoustic recording from 1964 i think that came out in the box set "peel slowly and see what´s inside"where Lou Reed almost sounds like a parody of Dylan. It is good to point out to these influences when usually what is emphasized of this album is its being "ahead of its time". As far as "Sunday morning" it is clearly a very important antecedent to the "Dream pop" sound of the eighties
Back in the seventh grade I was listening to a lot of grunge and alt rock. It came time to do a Night of the Notables thing. I did Kurt Cobain (had to fight so hard for that one) and a friend of mine did Andy Warhol. She brought a record player and a vinyl copy of this album (her dad used to own a record store, one of the coolest people I've ever met) and I was immediately transfixed with how interesting this album was. I bought a copy on iTunes as soon as I got home and my life was basically changed forever. I agree that their later (but not last) albums are better. But for me, this is where my interest in more interesting music began.
This is my favourite album of all time. People rightly call VU "proto-punk". It was ahead of its time addressing themes like BDSM, Prostitution, Smack, etc. Like you said, "Sunday Morning" is just a really pretty song. It's also super aggressive and noisey and cathartic for me. A fucking electric viola?! Fuck ya! I really like how droney they were and how their first song ever was just a drone. Brilliant.
Wow, I'm surprised how much I enjoyed this review. It's a pretty accurate description, and the transition of track to track was clever and well formatted. Could have talked about "European Son" a little bit more but I guess a brief summary of that particular song is appropriate since there's like 4 lines in that song lol. Their third album is probably their best though, but this one is always viewed as their magnum opus because "revolutionary" and blah blah blah. Anywho, good job!
Review In Utero, or an early black sabbath album or a radiohead album or homogenic or or an outkast album or an early the roots album, maybe illadelph halflife? so many albums man so many
One of my favorite albums, i couldn't have put it in words nearly as well as Anthony, great review. i think what i like the most about VU&Nico is its variety and juxtaposition of super pretty melodies with twisted chaos. ive sampled a few of the songs for hiphop beats too, they were a lot of fun to play with
This album is too sick for words (as is the t shirt where the banana here replaces the dick on the no love deep webb album cover), but my personal favourite is the insane, vivid, disgusting, deeply affecting world that is White Light/White Heat. Who doesn't want to hear about murder going on whilst sailors are busy getting head from drag queens, and an obsessive man sending themselves in a box to get a cutter put through their heads? I'm gonna still push for it - Frank Sinatra Sings For Only The Lonely! One of the best of all time! What would also be very cool is Reign In Blood, Metal Box and maybe College Dropout/Late Registration to surprise all of those who think you're a Kanye hater
Love how you have a "classic" album review section as well. Can you review Can - Future Days? One on my favorites. Noticing the Roland Kirk album in the background too. Have you heard The Roland Kirk Quartet - Rip, Rig,& Panic album? Absolutely amazing and one of RK's best . Also, I have an original copy of this Velvet Underground & Nico album in a record frame. It's for sale so if anyone is interested hit me up, it's a valuable record.
Could never get into it. My older brother made fun of me in high school for digging this band - A couple years later his favorite band covered the entire Loaded album he was so pissed
It's a myth that it took years for people to "get" this great record. I was born in 1950 and when I was a teenager everyone I knew owned it. According to Discogs there were 23 different versions released in 1967-68 alone(and 180 versions over the decades). It's been popular since the day it came out. It's never been hard to find and I don't believe it's ever gone out of print.
According to a 60-years-old friend and music nerd, yeah this is true. Anyone interested in art rock at the time knew about this album. As he keeps telling me, there wasn't as many releases as today, and you could technically listen to almost EVERY SINGLE RELEASE.
I am given to understand approximately 60,000 copies of the original "Banana" were sold in the US in the first two years. It reached no. 171 on the Billboard album chart in December 1967. I am afraid the Discogs reference you use is unreliable as analysis of their data suggests several of those versions are duplicates as well as international releases. Don't forget the original pressing faced legal issues due to the Eric Emerson "torso" displayed on the rear cover which resulted in a factory recall shortly after release and three covers subsequently being available in 1966/1967 (torso, sticker and airbrush).
Holy shit, just one of my favorites albums ever! What a incredible journey this is. Whenever I put this on, to me, is like walking through an really bad neighbourhood in NY after midnight. And then you have all this vivid images of what the protagonist is seeing in the streets he's walking in and being drunk or totally wasted. I think Lou Reed, as a lyricism, really shines on this one. "I'm Waiting for the Man" is probably the coolest song to walking around in the morning (along with maybe "Summer Babe (Winter Version)" and "Rock & Roll" also by the Velvets). And now I cannot stop want it to IMMEDIATELY listen to this album after seeing this video with your great detailed thoughts on it hahuaaha :D. Awesome review, Anthony!
My dad used to always play this to me when I was a little kid and it's still one of my favorite albums of all time. Just doesn't get old, no matter how many times you listen to it
i read somewhere that lou reed tuned his guitar so that each string was the same note. definitely adds to the psychedelic feel of this album. Venus in furs is one of my favorite songs, period
There are only three times I've ever cried listening to a song: 1. Heroin - The Velvet Underground 2. Mr. Tambourine Man - Bob Dylan 3. Birdland - Patti Smith
+Sultans Of Zing It's hard to remember when I've cried to songs as I don't keep track. Telephone Line by ELO, Pale Blue Eyes, and Stay by Hans Zimmer did it for me
If Kid A is not reviewed, I will stage an irritating and ineffectual youtube comment spam crusade that will alter nothing and be endorsed by no-one but myself. Having made it clear I am not a man to mess with, you know my demands must be met.
Re-watching this in 2015. I just love how articulate and spot on you are on your reviews. One of my favs. Props on a stellar effort reviewing this classic! :)
"backing beat mixed far into the left channel" - Only if you're listening to the stereo version. I think the mono version is a lot better because it centers all the instruments.
This is an amazing album, a mainstay of my college music diet. Thank you for the memory lane trip. As for next, I think an introduction to Black Monk Time is in order. Forever.
iconic, one of the best albums ever, the feel of the songs and how you can pretty much close your eyes and watch this record like a movie. shocking, haunting and beautiful all in one fell swoop.
you should review a classic from, swans, metallica, gabriel era genesis, sonic youth, death, comus, patti smith, portishead, suicide, joy division, yes, atheist... pretty much any of troughs would be cool.
it was PAUL MORRISSEY that were their manager. Barbra Rubin the filmmaker brought the attention to PAUl and andy. la monte young. IT WAS PAUL M. WHO WANTED NICO. don't the forget the original drummer angus maclise
Twid THESE ARE ABSOLUTELY NOT CONTEMPORARIES OF LOU REED'S 60s SONGWRITING... are you kidding me? This is music for teenagers 40 years later that ripped off his tone without replicating any of the feeling, transgression or integrity of his work.
I hope you consider a Sunn O))) or Swans album a classic. Would love to hear a Sunn review, and Swans just are classic experimental rock with albums like Soundtracks for the Blind.
an especially succinct review of an excellent album, what's hilarious is that i've never heard anyone bash VU or Lou Reed with the same level of coherence
This album's certainly got some good songs on it - Heroin is fucking brilliant - but apart from the good ones, Run Run Run is boring, the viola in Black Angel's Death Song is just grating, and European Son is good... for about 1.5-2 minutes.
+shonkywonkydonkey You really don't understand this kind of music. Velvet underground is highly inspired by Schoenberg. Listen "verklaerte nacht" by him. As VU this really isn't for everyone.
Heroin is probably my favorite track on the whole thing. It paints such a vivid picture of addiction. I've been struggling with an addiction for a little while so it cuts like a knife every time I hear it, but it's a solid reminder to myself that I can't allow myself to slip into that state again.
Thanks for everything, Lou.
European Son!!!!
Heroin remains my favorite song by The Velvet Underground
you should check out spacemen 3 - perfect prescription
@kkh369 those 3 you just listed were my go to favs in the album. It's like ur reading my mind lmao
So take heroine then listen to it? I guess if that’s what you recommend.
your room mate looks just like you
best comment ever!
Quality
You’re delusional
No shit Sherlock
That joke went right over your head, huh?
My girlfriend got me an original pressing of this LP. Needly to say one day I'm gonna marry that girl.
Mondriantestpattern are you still with her
They're both dead now
PLEASE TELL ME YOU MARRIED HER
Are you married yet?
sweet full banana or was it peeled? mono stereo? emerson on the back or not?
The shirt matches the banana
Well done
thanks, bb.
the banana is gonna eat your shirt
Yes
@@theneedledrop i shipped both of u guys.
Mustard shirt.
SHINY SHINY SHINY BOOTS OF LEATHA
COMES IN BELLS
YOUR SERVANT DON'T FORSAKE HIM
STRIKE DEAR MISTRESS
AND CURE HIS HEART
That’s my favourite song ;_;
This is a "band's band." The are (were) a huge influence on many rock bands. Their music was, literally, revolutionary at that time. Listen to it within the context of the time and you'll find it phenomenal. They have been my favorite band ever since I first heard them over 40 yrs ago.
'Only 50 people bought that album..... but of those 50 people, 30 started a band.'
youngest TVU fan
Wow, what an original thought (of Brian Eno)
They're the face of influence pretty much. They've influenced and inspired literally thousands of bands our most loved ones to the unheard ones to be different thats how different they were. Today's age needs a velvet underground.
You shoulda given John Cale a little more credit for the sound of this album.
Agreed.
True
He should review your profile pic
John Cale was to Velvet Underground what David Gilmour was to Pink Floyd.
PD: Nico’s vocal contribution is also one to be praised. “Femme Fatale” and “I’ll be your mirror” are two high points in this record.
John Cale has done some amazing work with the stooges, the VU, nico, his solo work, etc, man’s a legend
Aladdin Sane by David Bowie
Remain in Light by Talking Heads
Radiohead's Ok Computer
Joy Division's Unknown Plesaures
Pink Floyd's Animals.
There are a lot of classics to review yet, dude.
LOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOL
He ended up doing one of those.
@@thatsnotrightproductions7633 most of those
I have those albums in my playlist. tf
You forgot Dark side
"Venus in Furs" is one of the Greatest Psychedelic Songs of All-time.
I wouldn't call it psychedelic but yeah, it's so greaaat
@@natelivas3961 I'd call it a "Lou Reed" song in the "Lou Reed" subgenre cause there is nothing like Lou Reed.
@@dizzee6089 More John Cale musically though
@Vodoo Child What does most Psychedelic Rock sound like? 🤔🤔🤨🤨
@@UnexpectedWonder pink floyd
Femme Fatale is one of my favourite tracks on the album, I just really like Nico's voice.
Can't believe I just realised he's sitting down in these videos...
+Benjamin Roche :O
What
Liar
He is
!?!?
VU IS the most important band ever period end of story. They were punk before there was punk they were completely and totally indie before there was indie. I still listen to them almost daily.
I just listened to the album,my god i cant believe the record is 51 years old.
53 years actually. it's shocking
It certainly sounds its age but man is it edgy. I've recently discovered it myself
@@TheeStoicc I know right, it definitely has a late 60's vibe, but it sounds so fresh and unique and it doesn't feel dated at all. If anything it's one of those albums where it's age makes even exceed in quality.
It’s 55 years old now
It's 56 now.
heroine is low-key my favorite song of all time
Heeeeeeeeeeeeerrrooooooiiiin
It's my wife, and it's my life haha
Because a mainline into my vein
@@nerdycat9180 Leads in the center in my head
@@3badthebad lmao the haha has to be included
my favorite is waiting for the man,i just love these kind of situation painting songs(especially with such great instrumentation)
Felipe Syderas 2 years too late, but wanted to say my thoughts on it. That song is so amazing. The song has a purpose, and that purpose is to make you feel that giddyness and that anxiousness you get in that situation. You want “your man” to get there. The ways the guitars work and the beat. Its so amazing.
Mine too! Never get tired of it...
WOOOOOOOO!
please review remain in light anthony
He popped a molly
Could you review Definitely Maybe by Oasis?
I grew up with Oasis being my favorite band of all time and they still are so I recognize my immense bias when speaking about this album. There are a lot of people who consider it the greatest british album like ever haha so I just would like to hear a relatively unbiased review.
Much Love
SentitneS and he's sweatin'
Acquiex that's a great idea! Though perhaps I'm biased as I bought that album recently, I think it's one of the best british albums of all time - I'd put it in the top 5.
I bought this album when I was 15 and I still love it. I've chilled out on Velvet Underground a little bit over the years, but this is my favorite album they've done.
yeah, it's easy to make yourself a little sick of stuff when you've been listening to it for that long. dead kennedys is definitely like that for me to an extent.
loved everything you said in this video it definitely has me listening with a different mindset.
I just bought the album because i really enjoyed "Sunday Morning" and i wanted to "feel" the album as a whole.
much to my surprise all the songs are COMPLETELY different.
At first listen i was taken back and was unsure if i liked it or not.
"Heroin" in particular gave me an uneasy feeling and i wasn't sure if the music was enjoyable. (also that song is 7 minutes! HolySHIT 7 minutes of emotional ups and downs)
but now giving it a second thought, i think its incredible that music can move you this much.
+Keely Gonzalez (Ohhkeely) If you like Nico's vocals on this album, you should also check out her solo album Chelsea Girl.
+labotamysausagedog thanks! I definitely will.
+OhhKeely (Ohhkeely) Chelsea Girl and Desertshore are both fantastic Nico albums
it's definitely one to sit with. there's tons of people who hate it on first listen and never go back to it.
All 4 of their albums are really incredible btw, it's arguably the best 4-album-run ever imo. White Light/White Heat is ma faaav tho.
You're not gonna like this album until u start getting into punk, new wave, and alternative music. When you do, you'll realize this is where it all started and only then will u appreciate it fully
Could you PLEASE review "Is This It" by The Strokes?
We're still waiting
Sentry Turret lmao yup
5 years later
@@rhys2275 ughhhh CMON MELON BOI
Lol
This album is in my top ten albums of all time. Heroin is a song that is and always will be one of my favorite songs, and I absolutely love every track on this, from Sunday Morning to European Son. The segments of Nico's violin-fueled proto-noise Rock type playing are my favorites of the album, mostly because noise rock is arguably my absolute favorite genre of all time (Dinosaur Jr is my favorite band, so it's only natural).
The Velvet Underground & Nico - Self-Titled (a.k.a. Peel Slowly And See) ALBUM REVIEW
May you please review Kid A next? OK Computer perhaps? Or any radiohead album....
jaketyler11 Yessssssss!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
jaketyler11 Yes KID A
Ok Computer or Kid A
Can you review Endtroducing.... by DJ Shadow?
This is without a doubt one of my favorite albums of all time, and 'Heroin' is a particular favorite. I love how it keeps building and getting faster and faster and crazier as it goes on, eventually turning into some kind of psychobabble when it breaks down.
Anthony, can you do a review of Pets Sounds??
+Rebecca Walker ^
Yessss
He'll probably do it when Brian Wilson dies.He did a Ziggy Stardust review right after Bowie died.
How about the wild child younger cousin of 'Pet Sounds', the sublime revolutionary pop of 'Eli and the Thirteenth Confession' (1968) by the Bronx genius Laura Nyro. The main theme of Side 2 is sex - 'my lovers mouth been good to me, it promised joy for a jailhouse' (Women's Blues). Or 'super ride inside my lovething..love my lovething' (The Confession). And the first lesbian love pop song (Emmie).Nyro passed 1997 from cancer, inducted into the Rock Hall of Fame 2012. See Todd Rundgren's and Elton John's discussion of Nyro and her album. Her 3rd LP 'New York Tendaberry' (1969) was placed No.63 this week on Pitchfork's best 200 LP's of the 1960's. The Velvets and Nico was rated No.1 and Pet Sounds No.2.
wouldn't it be nice if anthony reviewed it
Kid A would be a great choice for classic week
or Animals by Pink Floyd...
But man, Velvet undergound and nico is along with those two in my favorites of all time!
PIPER AT THE GATES OF DAWN PLEASE!
Seconded!
third...ed?
Brian Fantana yesssss!!!!!
Brian Fantana or Meddle
Only if he does the mono mix, otherwise, he's going to criticize the production and not give it a fair rating. The mono mix came out an entire month before the stereo, has a lot more effects ("Flaming", "Pow R Toc H), a heavier sound, better mixing and balance, and even more instrument parts (e.g. the organ intro in "Interstellar Overdrive").
In fact, I'd say it's the most state-of-the-art and professional mono mix ever produced in the 60's (tying with The Beatles' albums, of course). And it's the number one 60's album with the biggest differences between mono and stereo. A LOT moreso than "Sgt. Pepper's". It's the one Syd Barrett actually was involved with mixing. The stereo mix was done without any band members and was rushed in 8 hours just using the bare elements. When you claim to be the Internet's busiest music nerd, you have to know this stuff. This mixing differences are common knowledge among the really big aficianados. Peter Jenner, their manager at the time, has gone on record saying the mono mix was the real version of the album.
To be honest, I fear Fantano giving this album a review at all. He'll just end up trashing it, and of course, criticizing the mix without hearing the mono. My best educated guess is he'll give it a 6. An 8 at the very best. For me, it's an easy 10/10. If he's literally going to give Death Grips' "The Money Store" his best rating, but not this, I'll lose any amount of respect I have for him.
Shiny shiny, shiny boots of leather
yea
Kiss the boot of shiny shiny leather
+rubix187 LOVEEEEE
"taste the whip, in love not given lightly, taste the whip, now pleeeeeeeeeeeeaad for meeee"
*CHAAAA CHA CHAAAA CHA CHA CHA CHA CHA CHAAAAAAAAAAAA*
Geez. I never knew european son got so much hate. I wish there was a non noise version but the noise is part of it and a great end to it
My fav track. Minimal singing and powerful lyrics. Let the instruments do the rest that's rock n roll.
I used to really hate it but became a fan eventually. Love the maddening bassline that starts right at the beginning
I personally love it. That guitar sound hasn't left my head since i first heard it. It's like a fever dream.
I also love Sister Ray, which is even "noisier" but man they sound like the greatest band of all time on that track. They deserved so much and got so little.
I listened to this album for the first time early in my college days and it honestly ended up changing me completely. I had been a music nerd for some time before that, but VU was a band I just hadn't quite "got around to" yet. First time I heard it, I wasn't so sure. But I couldn't stop listening and re-listening to it. It was a slow burning love at first, but one that's lasted a long time and its still in many ways my benchmark for anything outside the mainstream. This album changed my perspective on music forever.
CAL DROPPED HIS MIXTAPE NAME A YEAR BEFORE ITS RELEASE 😱
ScorpionSlayer66
Illuminati confirmed!
Pshhhhhhhhh
I just listened to this album for the first time and had to remind myself that it wasn't Canadian art rock from the 90's. Seriously this is crazily ahead of its time.
Also the first time I heard Nico's voice I thought it was Lou singing with a gay lisp.
Nice to see you're putting your favorite/least favorite tracks in the description! This is one of my favorite albums of all time, too bad it kind of falters on the last 2 tracks. Still a 10/10 in my eyes, Heroin and I'm Waiting for the Man are among my favorite songs ever.
This is one of my favorite reviews of yours, Anthony. Not only is this probably my favorite album of all time and it's always great to hear it get talked about positively, but you just conveyed all your points really well.
If you wore a bucket hat you would look like Johnny Depp in Fear and Loathing lmao
I love that you're doing another classic's week, and I know that you surely have all your albums picked out already. But please, PLEASE do a Radiohead album.
YESYESYESYESYESYESYESYESDYESYESYESYESYEDSYEDSYEDSYEYDSYEDSYw diepsiayfiure yaor8 y'e[oyrp
OK Computer! Please! :")
Listened to this album a couple times. Didn't like it on my first couple of listens but whats fascinating about this album is that with each new listen, I gain an appreciation for a different song. Heroine, Venus in Furs, Sunday Morning and Run run run are fantastic tracks. I still have not been able to appreciate the album as a whole yet, but I feel like there is a strong possibility that I will eventually.
So.... do you?
If suggestions are even necessary (if not I'll just list these anyway) Siamese Dream has aged very well with its shoegaze and dream pop elements that really established alternative rock for the time. I also think one of Outkast's earlier records specifically the first 3 are seminal classic hip-hop listens. Each one had a lot of intricate wordplay, lavish production, and fantastic hooks.
I would love to hear your thoughts on any of these. Sorry for not typing that with the rest of my comment.
Mex Zesty I will agree with you about Siamese Dream. I would also add that the Verve's A Storm in Heaven aged incredibly well with elements of shoegaze, psychedelia, post rock, dream pop and jazz.
It's intresting you suggest Outkast's first 3 albums, because if it was me I'd have picked Stankonia to review as a classic. Although to be fair aquemini would work just as well.
Siamese Dream is a great shout too! Such a faultless album!
Yeezy Smalls Stankonia is great and it's Outkast's last true album, but Idk Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik, ATLiens, and Aquemini (my personal favorite obviously) just really seem to hit me in the right spot.
***** I have always thought Outkast has been the most musically talented Hip Hop duo or have made some of the best Hip Hop in general. Biggie was amazing R.I.P., and like Fantano said Eminem is still very "technically proficient" which has him almost on par with Big Boi and Dre as far as his producing goes (I don't think Dr. Dre produced Marshal Mathers LP 2 but correct me if I'm wrong).
Very good review! Our feelings toward that record seem so alike! As in how tracks like "All Tomorrow's Parties", and "Venus and Furs" have this ancient, ominous vibe of sorts, as if playing at the background of some subversive gathering.
I don't really understand how European son is his Lear favorite song on the album. It's definitely a little long to the point where the constant aggression gets excessive and exhaustive and can get over wrought but I think that's what it's going for. It's an offensive experience in sonic violence in a death grips kinda way
Precisely. Short and powerful lyrics allow the instruments to take the forefront. Not to mention the groovy bassline throughout.
One thing that contributes to Sunday Morning being so gorgeous sounding, is it was slightly sped up. well maybe not sped up, put pitch shifted, one of those. either way. Great review. I found you before watching the drunken peasants, but was glad to see you appear on there as well.
Paisley I think it was. Lou Reed's voice sounded way too high, even on the rest of the album he didnt sound nowhere near like that. And when you try to play along to it on guitar you cant quite find the right pitch. Because it was pitch shifted. And oh god you again.
Communism > Bittersweet Symphony
Paisley Thats a possibility, but why werent the rest of the songs on the album online i listened to pitch shifted? Anyways, im also a VU fan, and i wouldnt call myself an expert, i have a decent amount of knowledge on them, and i dont have proof it was pitch shifted, but ive seen other people suggest it as well. You can listen to Lou's old records "Cycle Annie, "The Ostrich", "Your Love" etc... and those were the days when he actually really tried to sing, and did it fairly successfully, but still it didnt sound anything like his voice on Sunday Morning. Ive seen people suggest that someone else sang on it, and thats complete bullshit, you can tell by the word phrasing and delivery its Lou, but something is off about it. Still a beautiful song either way.
My next suggestions
Talk Talk - Spirit of Eden or Laughing Stock
REM - Murmur or Automatic for the People
Portishead - Dummy or Massive Attack - Blue lines
Agreed. Especially Dummy and Blue Lines
I think its time for the long awaited review of Phil Collins - ...Hits.
best of?
theneedledrop have you ever thought about reviewing odelay by beck
+Wiener Schnitzel I'm anoyed by BeCkk. Becasu JeffBegg owndem that nanme beföre tehm
That's fucking hilarious.
What about "Selling England By The Pound" though 💷?
I'm really hoping for an "Unknown Pleasures" review. Also, a review of a classic metal album would be awesome.
Greatest album ever. Decades ahead of its time, and there's really no comparison.
(Pet Sounds) But yeah, this is number 2 ! Absolutely fantastic album
@@mellifluentefax
@@mellifluenteAbby Road
I love Abbey Road, but I much prefer Pet Sounds And The Velvet & Nico. Abbey Road is flawless though...
The 60s man... just a great fucking decade for music
It’s definitely between Venus in Furs and Heroin for me, it’s just so hard to choose a favourite.
Charles Mingus' The Black Saint & The Sinner Lady
If you're a fan of The Velvet Underground you may have already checked out Lou Reed's great solo albums, but have a listen to John Cale's Paris 1919 for a truly underrated masterpiece.
John cale is a p a b word
You should review 'Five Leaves Left' by Nick Drake.
Gabriel Tiller Ayy! Nick Drake is truly underrated
review Slint- Spiderland
He did
This is probably my fave rock album and you managed to describe it so well, and get its vibes spot on!
Cheers, class review
Do Closer by Joy Division!!!
Seconded!
I've always been confused as to whether it's supposed to be pronounced closer as in "come closer" or as in "album closer"
I love that t-shirt!
@@Violetcas97 closer as in "come closer"
At different times of my life I have called every album of theirs my favorite, but as I get older I think this one has the best of all their varied stylistic shifts.
OMG how the fuck is anthony wearing his swagulous shirt yet it's simultaneously in his wardrobe?
interesting that you notice the Dylan influence. In fact there is an acoustic recording from 1964 i think that came out in the box set "peel slowly and see what´s inside"where Lou Reed almost sounds like a parody of Dylan. It is good to point out to these influences when usually what is emphasized of this album is its being "ahead of its time". As far as "Sunday morning" it is clearly a very important antecedent to the "Dream pop" sound of the eighties
Back in the seventh grade I was listening to a lot of grunge and alt rock.
It came time to do a Night of the Notables thing.
I did Kurt Cobain (had to fight so hard for that one) and a friend of mine did Andy Warhol. She brought a record player and a vinyl copy of this album (her dad used to own a record store, one of the coolest people I've ever met) and I was immediately transfixed with how interesting this album was. I bought a copy on iTunes as soon as I got home and my life was basically changed forever. I agree that their later (but not last) albums are better. But for me, this is where my interest in more interesting music began.
This is my favourite album of all time. People rightly call VU "proto-punk". It was ahead of its time addressing themes like BDSM, Prostitution, Smack, etc. Like you said, "Sunday Morning" is just a really pretty song. It's also super aggressive and noisey and cathartic for me. A fucking electric viola?! Fuck ya! I really like how droney they were and how their first song ever was just a drone. Brilliant.
Wow, I'm surprised how much I enjoyed this review. It's a pretty accurate description, and the transition of track to track was clever and well formatted. Could have talked about "European Son" a little bit more but I guess a brief summary of that particular song is appropriate since there's like 4 lines in that song lol. Their third album is probably their best though, but this one is always viewed as their magnum opus because "revolutionary" and blah blah blah. Anywho, good job!
Review In Utero, or an early black sabbath album or a radiohead album or homogenic or or an outkast album or an early the roots album, maybe illadelph halflife? so many albums man so many
But this album is so good in its own right
Favorite album of all time
Mike Sieger imo it’s not only one of the best rock albums of all time but one of the best albums of the 20th century
One of my favorite albums, i couldn't have put it in words nearly as well as Anthony, great review. i think what i like the most about VU&Nico is its variety and juxtaposition of super pretty melodies with twisted chaos. ive sampled a few of the songs for hiphop beats too, they were a lot of fun to play with
This album is too sick for words (as is the t shirt where the banana here replaces the dick on the no love deep webb album cover), but my personal favourite is the insane, vivid, disgusting, deeply affecting world that is White Light/White Heat. Who doesn't want to hear about murder going on whilst sailors are busy getting head from drag queens, and an obsessive man sending themselves in a box to get a cutter put through their heads?
I'm gonna still push for it - Frank Sinatra Sings For Only The Lonely! One of the best of all time!
What would also be very cool is Reign In Blood, Metal Box and maybe College Dropout/Late Registration to surprise all of those who think you're a Kanye hater
Heroin just blew me away. Like it felt so vivid, picturing thru instruments. Like he was channeling thru instruments. Art.
For this year's classic's week I think you should review Nico's Marble Index!
Love how you have a "classic" album review section as well. Can you review Can - Future Days? One on my favorites. Noticing the Roland Kirk album in the background too. Have you heard The Roland Kirk Quartet - Rip, Rig,& Panic album? Absolutely amazing and one of RK's best . Also, I have an original copy of this Velvet Underground & Nico album in a record frame. It's for sale so if anyone is interested hit me up, it's a valuable record.
I would recommend listening to Loaded. I feel it's the most accessible and in my opinion, their best. But, this is a verrrrrry close second.
Could never get into it. My older brother made fun of me in high school for digging this band - A couple years later his favorite band covered the entire Loaded album he was so pissed
the velvet underground is awesome
It's a myth that it took years for people to "get" this great record. I was born in 1950 and when I was a teenager everyone I knew owned it. According to Discogs there were 23 different versions released in 1967-68 alone(and 180 versions over the decades). It's been popular since the day it came out. It's never been hard to find and I don't believe it's ever gone out of print.
Jeff Williams INteresting (not sarcasm)
According to a 60-years-old friend and music nerd, yeah this is true. Anyone interested in art rock at the time knew about this album. As he keeps telling me, there wasn't as many releases as today, and you could technically listen to almost EVERY SINGLE RELEASE.
Interesting
I am given to understand approximately 60,000 copies of the original "Banana" were sold in the US in the first two years. It reached no. 171 on the Billboard album chart in December 1967. I am afraid the Discogs reference you use is unreliable as analysis of their data suggests several of those versions are duplicates as well as international releases. Don't forget the original pressing faced legal issues due to the Eric Emerson "torso" displayed on the rear cover which resulted in a factory recall shortly after release and three covers subsequently being available in 1966/1967 (torso, sticker and airbrush).
to get this ''great'' record...
WHOOOOOOOT?! Never thought I would see Velvet Underground & Nico, awesome video Fantano. :)
Hinting the New Calassics mixtape since 2013. God damn Fantano
Holy shit, just one of my favorites albums ever! What a incredible journey this is. Whenever I put this on, to me, is like walking through an really bad neighbourhood in NY after midnight. And then you have all this vivid images of what the protagonist is seeing in the streets he's walking in and being drunk or totally wasted. I think Lou Reed, as a lyricism, really shines on this one. "I'm Waiting for the Man" is probably the coolest song to walking around in the morning (along with maybe "Summer Babe (Winter Version)" and "Rock & Roll" also by the Velvets). And now I cannot stop want it to IMMEDIATELY listen to this album after seeing this video with your great detailed thoughts on it hahuaaha :D. Awesome review, Anthony!
SUNDAY MORNIN
BRINGS THE DAWN IN!!!
My dad used to always play this to me when I was a little kid and it's still one of my favorite albums of all time. Just doesn't get old, no matter how many times you listen to it
Jeff Buckley - Grace?
Great review, greetings from uruguay
URUGUAY!
THANKS! :-)
Finally, classics week!
i read somewhere that lou reed tuned his guitar so that each string was the same note. definitely adds to the psychedelic feel of this album. Venus in furs is one of my favorite songs, period
Heroin is the best song on the album. Way better than Sunday morning and waiting for the man and Venus in furs and yes even European sun
Kyle jeboss Either that or All Tomorrow's Parties
There are only three times I've ever cried listening to a song:
1. Heroin - The Velvet Underground
2. Mr. Tambourine Man - Bob Dylan
3. Birdland - Patti Smith
+Sultans Of Zing It's hard to remember when I've cried to songs as I don't keep track. Telephone Line by ELO, Pale Blue Eyes, and Stay by Hans Zimmer did it for me
I'll be Your Mirror, that's my favorite. Such a beautiful sentiment sung beautifully.
If Kid A is not reviewed, I will stage an irritating and ineffectual youtube comment spam crusade that will alter nothing and be endorsed by no-one but myself.
Having made it clear I am not a man to mess with, you know my demands must be met.
Radiohead fans am I right
@@isaiahromero9861 Ahh yes. Radiohead fans love Radiohead.
Re-watching this in 2015. I just love how articulate and spot on you are on your reviews. One of my favs. Props on a stellar effort reviewing this classic! :)
Unknown Pleasures or Closer by Joy Division
Trevor Johnson I’ve got good news for you...
BRO. JUST A GUY HERE TEXTING. YOUR REVIEWS ARE NOTHING BUT PURE EXCELLENCE. FROM MY HEART ALL THE BEST
Where is Cal Chuchesta's top 10 albums!!!!
Reviews of Is This It, Doolittle or Marquee Moon would be great.
"backing beat mixed far into the left channel" - Only if you're listening to the stereo version. I think the mono version is a lot better because it centers all the instruments.
I thought this immediately after he said left channel
Do Pet Sounds! PET SOUNDS!
anthony banano
This is an amazing album, a mainstay of my college music diet. Thank you for the memory lane trip. As for next, I think an introduction to Black Monk Time is in order. Forever.
Me: _searches for "Sunday Morning"_
"Sunday Morning": _starts_
Me: Oh shit, that's gonna be a good one.
iconic, one of the best albums ever, the feel of the songs and how you can pretty much close your eyes and watch this record like a movie. shocking, haunting and beautiful all in one fell swoop.
you should review a classic from, swans, metallica, gabriel era genesis, sonic youth, death, comus, patti smith, portishead, suicide, joy division, yes, atheist... pretty much any of troughs would be cool.
it was PAUL MORRISSEY that were their manager. Barbra Rubin the filmmaker brought the attention to PAUl and andy. la monte young. IT WAS PAUL M. WHO WANTED NICO. don't the forget the original drummer angus maclise
You've probably chosen already, but it would be awesome if you could review some of Lou's contemparies *Cough* Interpol *Cough* The Strokes...
Twid THESE ARE ABSOLUTELY NOT CONTEMPORARIES OF LOU REED'S 60s SONGWRITING... are you kidding me? This is music for teenagers 40 years later that ripped off his tone without replicating any of the feeling, transgression or integrity of his work.
I hope you consider a Sunn O))) or Swans album a classic. Would love to hear a Sunn review, and Swans just are classic experimental rock with albums like Soundtracks for the Blind.
Review Captain Beefheart - trout-mask replica
shut up
imterry1355 keyboard warrior here^
yeyayayayaya!
This is definitely one of my favorite albums of all time. The first time I heard "Heroin" I was blown away.
I don't blame you, sir. As was I. I've never heard anything like it. Definitely a 10/10 A+ classic album.
PLEASE TELL ME YOUR DOING TROUT MASK REPLICA!!!!!!
Have I got good news for you, pal...
@kkh369 It hates you
That album sucks
Can you do a classic album review of Led Zeppelin IV or any Zeppelin album?
+CARPE DIEM /Not In/Support Of/Delta Blues
wow
not ok
YAYAYAYA CLAASICS WEEK!!!
an especially succinct review of an excellent album, what's hilarious is that i've never heard anyone bash VU or Lou Reed with the same level of coherence
This album's certainly got some good songs on it - Heroin is fucking brilliant - but apart from the good ones, Run Run Run is boring, the viola in Black Angel's Death Song is just grating, and European Son is good... for about 1.5-2 minutes.
Those songs are basically my favorites. I love the grating.
You just didn't understand it- of course you love the only hit off the record.
+shonkywonkydonkey You really don't understand this kind of music.
Velvet underground is highly inspired by Schoenberg. Listen "verklaerte nacht" by him.
As VU this really isn't for everyone.