Is Naked II a good place to start with Golden Earring?

Yes, Naked II is recommended as a starting point for new Golden Earring listeners. A vibrant blend of classic rock and progressive elements infused with a distinctly Dutch sensibility and lyrical introspection. Released in 1997, Naked II marked Golden Earring's return after a five-year hiatus since their previous album, Face It. This album came during a period when the band was solidifying their legacy in rock while still experimenting with sound. The band had achieved major success in the 1970s and 80s, but by this time, they were focusing on mature themes and complex compositions.

Naked II works well if you're into wave-like pacing with peaks, introspective lyrics with depth and engaging dynamic journey experience.

How many songs are on Naked II?

Naked II has 13 tracks, running approximately 56 minutes.

Naked II

Golden Earring · 1997

56 min · 13 tracks · hard rock

A vibrant blend of classic rock and progressive elements infused with a distinctly Dutch sensibility and lyrical introspection.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Who Do You Love Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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When the Lady Smiles — This track stands out due to its haunting melody and provocative lyrics that explore themes of desire and vulnerability, showcasing the band's lyrical depth.
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She Flies on Strange Wings — With its expansive structure and ethereal quality, this song exemplifies Golden Earring's progressive rock tendencies, blending intricate instrumentation with emotional storytelling.
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The Devil Made Me Do It — This closing track is an ambitious exploration of temptation and consequence, featuring dynamic shifts that encapsulate the essence of the album's thematic explorations.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

wave-like pacing with peaks
introspective lyrics with depth
engaging dynamic journey experience
for reflective evenings

Maybe skip if you

seekers of instant gratification
prefer standalone hit singles

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Late Career Highlight — Shows the band's continued vitality after a five-year hiatus.
Themes: Dutch rock legacy· vulnerability in desire· temptation and consequence
Career context: Released in 1997, Naked II marked Golden Earring's return after a five-year hiatus since their previous album, Face It. This album came during a period when the band was solidifying their legacy in rock while still experimenting with sound. The band had achieved major success in the 1970s and 80s, but by this time, they were focusing on mature themes and complex compositions.
Stylistic neighbors: The Alan Parsons Project· UFO· Thin Lizzy

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

When the Lady Smiles

Longing transforms into a chilling confrontation with desire highlights a shift from admiration to darker implications.

This transition deepens the narrative complexity, contrasting earlier romantic sentiments with a sense of foreboding that enriches the listener's experience.