Magic and Loss
Lou Reed · 1992
58 min · 14 tracks · alternative rock · folk rock · psychedelic rock
A haunting exploration of mortality woven through sparse arrangements and Reed's introspective lyrics.
Why this album works
The album received critical acclaim for its poignant exploration of death and loss, marking a significant moment in Reed's career. It influenced a wave of artists who began to address similar themes within alternative rock, and it has been cited in numerous retrospectives as a key work in Reed's discography.
- Best for
- haunting reflections on mortality wave-like pacing with introspection dynamic exploration of themes
- Context
- Released on January 14, 1992, 'Magic and Loss' came after Lou Reed's commercial resurgence with 'New York' (1989). This album represented a shift towards deeply personal themes, reflecting on loss and grief following the death of his friend and collaborator. It was a pivotal moment as Reed leaned into more avant-garde elements in his songwriting.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Green Day· Alanis Morissette· Yoko Ono· Neil Young· No Doubt· The Roots· Cake· Kevin Rudolf
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Dorita (The Spirit) 1:07
- 2 What’s Good (The Thesis) 3:22
- 3 Power and Glory (The Situation) 4:23
- 4 Magician (Internally) 6:23
- 5 Sword of Damocles (Externally) 3:42
- 6 Goodby Mass (In a Chapel Bodily Termination) 4:25
- 7 Cremation (Ashes to Ashes) 2:54
- 8 Dreamin’ (Escape) 5:09
- 9 No Chance (Regret) 3:15
- 10 Warrior King (Revenge) 4:27
- 11 Harry’s Circumcision (Reverie Gone Astray) 5:29
- 12 Gassed and Stoked (Loss) 4:18
- 13 Power and Glory, Part II (Magic Transformation) 2:57
- 14 Magic and Loss (The Summation) 6:39
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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