Built to Last
Grateful Dead · 1989
49 min · 9 tracks · psychedelic rock
A seamless blend of reflective lyrics and gentle melodies, capturing the band's enduring spirit in their later years.
Why this album works
- Best for
- reflective listening moments gentle melodic flows gradual emotional builds
- Context
- Released on October 31, 1989, 'Built to Last' was the Grateful Dead's final studio album before Jerry Garcia's passing in 1995. This album marked a period of renewed energy for the band, following a decade characterized by fluctuating popularity and internal struggles. It showcased a more polished sound compared to their earlier work, reflecting both their evolution and the challenges they faced as they approached the twilight of their career.
- If you like
- psychedelic rock
Built to Last is an album by Grateful Dead, released in 1989. A seamless blend of reflective lyrics and gentle melodies, capturing the band's enduring spirit in their later years. 'Built to Last' is significant as it reached No. 49 on the Billboard 200 chart, demonstrating that the Grateful Dead maintained commercial viability even in their later years. The album also received mixed reviews from critics, with some appreciating its introspective lyrics while others viewed it as lacking the improvisational spirit typical of earlier releases. Its release contributed to ongoing discussions about legacy and artistic direction within the jam band scene. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Built to Last sound like?
A seamless blend of reflective lyrics and gentle melodies, capturing the band's enduring spirit in their later years. Rooted in psychedelic rock.
What makes Built to Last by Grateful Dead notable?
'Built to Last' is significant as it reached No. 49 on the Billboard 200 chart, demonstrating that the Grateful Dead maintained commercial viability even in their later years. The album also received mixed reviews from critics, with some appreciating its introspective lyrics while others viewed it as lacking the improvisational spirit typical of earlier releases. Its release contributed to ongoing discussions about legacy and artistic direction within the jam band scene. Released on October 31, 1989, 'Built to Last' was the Grateful Dead's final studio album before Jerry Garcia's passing in 1995. This album marked a period of renewed energy for the band, following a decade characterized by fluctuating popularity and internal struggles. It showcased a more polished sound compared to their earlier work, reflecting both their evolution and the challenges they faced as they approached the twilight of their career.
Who is Built to Last for?
Built to Last works well if you're into reflective listening moments, gentle melodic flows and gradual emotional builds.
How many songs are on Built to Last?
Built to Last has 9 tracks, running approximately 49 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Foolish Heart Standout 5:10
- 2 Just a Little Light 4:42
- 3 Built to Last 5:03
- 4 Blow Away 6:09
- 5 Standing on the Moon Standout 5:20
- 6 Victim or the Crime Standout 7:33
- 7 We Can Run 5:30
- 8 Picasso Moon 6:40
- 9 I Will Take You Home 3:45
Release Date
October 31, 1989
Artist Origin
United States
Runtime
49 min 52 sec
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