What makes Mythical Kings and Iguanas by Dory Previn notable?

The album is significant for its critical reception, with Rolling Stone praising Previn's lyrical depth and emotional honesty. It showcased her ability to tackle complex themes and solidified her reputation in the burgeoning singer-songwriter movement of the early '70s. Released in March 1971, Mythical Kings and Iguanas was Dory Previn's third studio album, following her successful debut, On My Way to Where. At this point in her career, Previn had established herself as a notable singer-songwriter known for her confessional lyrics and unique blend of pop and folk influences.

How many songs are on Mythical Kings and Iguanas?

Mythical Kings and Iguanas has 10 tracks, running approximately 36 minutes.

Mythical Kings and Iguanas

Dory Previn · 1971

36 min · 10 tracks

Dory Previn's poignant storytelling intertwines with eclectic arrangements, creating a hauntingly introspective musical landscape.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Mythical Kings and Iguanas — The title track sets the tone for the album with its vivid imagery and exploration of fantasy versus reality, encapsulating Previn's lyrical prowess.
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Lady With the Braid — This song features intricate storytelling through its character-driven narrative, illustrating Previn’s talent for weaving personal experiences into broader social commentary.
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Mary C. Brown and the Hollywood Sign — A sharp critique of Hollywood culture, this track blends humor with biting social observation, showcasing Previn’s skill in merging satire with melodic sophistication.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

53 /100

Foothills

Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong lyrical storytelling and eclectic arrangements, though its cohesion is somewhat uneven.

What we noticed

The album opens with a title track that features a slow build, layering orchestral strings over Previn's vocal lines.
Lyrically, the songs often feature narrative storytelling that explores complex themes of identity and personal struggle.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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.

Tracklist

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

1 Mythical Kings and Iguanas 3:25
2 Yada Yada La Scala 2:33
3 Lady With the Braid 3:56
4 Her Mother's Daughter 4:06
5 Angels and Devils the Following Day 2:36
6 Mary C. Brown and the Hollywood Sign 3:45
7 Lemon Haired Ladies 4:40
8 Stone for Bessie Smith 2:38
9 The Game 4:25
10 Going Home (Mythical Kings and Iguanas) 4:50

What to play next

Listen next

Mary C. Brown and the Hollywood Sign

1972

Go back to

Reflections in a Mud Puddle

1971

Full Dory Previn discography Artists like Dory Previn

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata