Infinite Rider on the Big Dogma
Michael Nesmith · 1979
37 min · 10 tracks · country music
A whimsical blend of country, pop, and psychedelic rock that captures a sense of playful exploration and introspective lyricism.
Top tracks — play these first
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Dance — Opening the album with infectious energy, this track encapsulates the playful spirit of the record while showcasing Nesmith's knack for catchy melodies.
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Magic — This song features an enchanting blend of folk and pop elements, illustrating Nesmith’s lyrical depth and ability to create vivid imagery through music.
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Factions — With its experimental structure and engaging instrumentation, this track highlights Nesmith's innovative approach to songwriting and arrangement during this era.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album blends various styles while maintaining a playful yet introspective tone, showcasing Nesmith's unique approach.
What we noticed
- The first track, 'Dance', opens with a lively tempo and prominent rhythm section, setting an upbeat tone that persists through the first half of the album.
- Several tracks feature layered harmonies and instrumental experimentation, particularly in 'Flying' and 'Cruisin’', where unexpected shifts in melody occur.
- The album closes with 'Capsule', which employs a minimalist arrangement and a slower pace, creating a stark contrast to the earlier tracks.
- 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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5/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
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 explorations of whimsical themes
- short bursts of uplifting energy
- introspective moments with lightheartedness
- easygoing tunes for sunny days
Maybe skip if you
- prefer heavy, serious compositions
- want lengthy, sprawling albums
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 1979, Infinite Rider on the Big Dogma is Michael Nesmith's fourth solo album following his departure from The Monkees. By this time, he had established himself as a pioneering figure in blending country rock with more experimental sounds, pushing creative boundaries after the commercial success of his previous projects.
- Stylistic neighbors
- James Taylor· Gordon Lightfoot· John Denver
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Magic
The chorus shifts perspectives unexpectedly, inviting listeners into a world where wonder intertwines with reality.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Dance 2:30
- 2 Magic 3:37
- 3 Tonite 3:55
- 4 Flying 4:44
- 5 Carioca 4:05
- 6 Cruisin’ 3:49
- 7 Factions 3:22
- 8 Light 3:18
- 9 Horserace 3:22
- 10 Capsule 5:15
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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