Bark cover

Bark

Jefferson Airplane · 1971

44 min · 11 tracks · hard rock

A vibrant fusion of rock and folk elements, laced with introspective lyrics and the band’s characteristic harmonies.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    When the Earth Moves Again Start here — This opening track sets the tone with its energetic instrumentation and reflective lyrics about change, encapsulating the band's transitional state during this period.
  • →
    Crazy Miranda — The song features haunting melodies that highlight the band's psychedelic roots while also showcasing lyrical depth, making it a standout example of their evolving style.
  • →
    Feel So Good — This track combines upbeat rock rhythms with an infectious chorus, representing a moment of joy and liberation amidst the band's ongoing changes.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

44 /100
Lowland
Higher than 4% of albums we've rated

Bark showcases a blend of rock styles with shifting tempos and vocal dynamics, reflecting the band's transitional phase.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks feature a consistent mid-tempo groove, while the fourth track introduces a slower, more reflective pace.
  • Several songs incorporate layered vocal harmonies that shift between lead and backing parts, creating a dynamic interplay.
  • The album closes with 'War Movie,' which features an extended instrumental section that contrasts with the lyrical focus of earlier tracks.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

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, experimental listening sessions
  • dynamic emotional journeys
  • contemplative late-night vibes
  • steady, consistent energy levels

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Deep Cut — Represents a transitional phase with new members, but not widely recognized as essential.
Themes
personal transformation· psychedelic nostalgia· musical evolution
Career context
Released in September 1971, Bark was Jefferson Airplane's fifth studio album and marked a transitional phase for the band. It followed the departure of vocalist Grace Slick, who was replaced by new members, reflecting a shift in their sound and direction as they navigated through personal and artistic changes.
Stylistic neighbors
The Doors· Grateful Dead· Cream

Tracklist

  • 1 When the Earth Moves Again Start here 3:57
  • 2 Feel So Good 4:39
  • 3 Crazy Miranda 3:26
  • 4 Pretty as You Feel 4:33
  • 5 Wild Turkey 4:49
  • 6 Law Man 2:45
  • 7 Rock and Roll Island 3:46
  • 8 Third Week in the Chelsea 4:37
  • 9 Never Argue With a German If You're Tired or European Song 4:35
  • 10 Thunk 3:01
  • 11 War Movie 4:41

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata