What makes Like It Is, Was, and Evermore Shall Be by Donovan notable?

This album is notable for its critical reception, marking a point where Donovan's lyrical depth began to gain wider recognition. Tracks like 'Universal Soldier' contributed to the anti-war movement of the late 1960s, resonating with the era's social consciousness and earning acclaim in various music publications for its poignant commentary. By the time 'Like It Is, Was, and Evermore Shall Be' was released in January 1968, Donovan had established himself as a significant figure in the folk and psychedelic music scenes, following his breakthrough with hits like 'Catch the Wind' and 'Sunshine Superman'. This album arrived shortly after his commercial peak, showcasing his evolution as an artist embracing more complex arrangements and introspective themes.

Who is Like It Is, Was, and Evermore Shall Be for?

Like It Is, Was, and Evermore Shall Be works well if you're into dreamy acoustic melodies for reflection, steady mid-tempo flow throughout and short tracks for quick enjoyment.

How many songs are on Like It Is, Was, and Evermore Shall Be?

Like It Is, Was, and Evermore Shall Be has 11 tracks, running approximately 31 minutes.

Like It Is, Was, and Evermore Shall Be

Donovan · 1968

31 min · 11 tracks · folk rock

A delicate tapestry of whimsical melodies and introspective lyrics intertwining folk, pop, and subtle psychedelic influences.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Universal Soldier — This track stands out for its stark anti-war message, encapsulating the spirit of protest that characterized much of the 1960s music scene.
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Colours — The gentle melody and vivid imagery in this song exemplify Donovan's signature style, blending simplicity with profound emotional resonance.
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To Try for the Sun — This track showcases Donovan's introspective lyricism and melodic craftsmanship, reflecting his growth as a songwriter during this period.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

dreamy acoustic melodies for reflection
steady mid-tempo flow throughout
short tracks for quick enjoyment
introspective lyrics for deep thinking

Maybe skip if you

prefer high-energy listening experiences
seek lengthy, immersive albums

Where this album fits

Career context: By the time 'Like It Is, Was, and Evermore Shall Be' was released in January 1968, Donovan had established himself as a significant figure in the folk and psychedelic music scenes, following his breakthrough with hits like 'Catch the Wind' and 'Sunshine Superman'. This album arrived shortly after his commercial peak, showcasing his evolution as an artist embracing more complex arrangements and introspective themes.
Stylistic neighbors: Nick Drake· Simon & Garfunkel· Cat Stevens

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Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Universal Soldier

The narrator shifts to address the soldier directly, laying bare the futility of war through personal reflection on sacrifice.

This direct address breaks the narrative distance typical of earlier verses, making the soldier's experience immediate and deeply personal.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Summer Day Reflection Song 2:11
2 Do You Hear Me Now 1:45
3 Colours 2:44
4 Universal Soldier 2:13
5 Josie 3:24
6 Catch the Wind 2:53
7 Why Do You Treat Me Like You Do 2:54
8 To Try for the Sun 3:37
9 Hey Gip (Dig the Slowness) 3:05
10 The War Drags On 3:40
11 Sunny Goodge Street 2:55

What to play next

Listen next

The Hurdy Gurdy Man

1968

Go back to

Mellow Yellow

1967

Full Donovan discography Where to start with Donovan Artists like Donovan

folk rock folk-pop psychedelic rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata