Arlo Guthrie
Arlo Guthrie · 1974
31 min · 11 tracks · folk music
A blend of narrative storytelling and social commentary wrapped in melodic folk arrangements that reflect a deep sense of Americana.
Top tracks — play these first
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Deportees — This track stands out for its poignant lyrics addressing immigration and social injustice, making it a timeless protest song that encapsulates Guthrie's activism.
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Presidential Rag — Guthrie’s satirical take on political leadership offers sharp commentary on American society, showcasing his ability to blend humor with serious critique.
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When the Cactus Is in Bloom — This song highlights Guthrie's storytelling prowess, using vivid imagery to evoke themes of love and longing against a backdrop of American landscapes.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases strong storytelling through folk music but lacks a cohesive flow throughout its runtime.
What we noticed
- The first half of the album features more upbeat tracks, while the second half shifts to slower, reflective songs.
- Several tracks incorporate spoken word elements, blending narrative storytelling with musical accompaniment.
- The arrangements often include acoustic guitar and harmonica, creating a classic folk sound that supports the lyrical themes.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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6/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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5/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- playful melodies for lighthearted moments
- short tracks for quick enjoyment
- reflective storytelling with social themes
- easygoing background for gatherings
Maybe skip if you
- seekers of lengthy epics
- prefer high-energy performances
Where this album fits
- Career context
- In 1974, Arlo Guthrie was solidifying his place within the folk music scene, following the success of his 1970 album 'Alice's Restaurant.' This self-titled album marked his return after a four-year hiatus and showcased his growth as a songwriter and storyteller, reflecting on contemporary issues while maintaining his signature style.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Woody Guthrie· Pete Seeger· Bob Dylan
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Won't Be Long 2:40
- 2 Presidential Rag 4:29
- 3 Deportees 3:50
- 4 Children of Abraham 2:27
- 5 Nostalgia 2:54
- 6 When the Cactus Is in Bloom 2:20
- 7 Me and My Goose 2:01
- 8 Bling Blang 2:47
- 9 Go Down Moses 2:44
- 10 Hard Times 2:43
- 11 Last to Leave 2:34
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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