What makes Opel by Syd Barrett notable?

Opel has been recognized for its role in preserving Barrett's legacy as a pioneering figure in psychedelic music. The album was critically well-received, with many praising its intimate portrayal of Barrett's artistry, and it contributed to a resurgence of interest in his work during the late 1980s. Its influence can be seen in the continued fascination with outsider music and the exploration of mental health themes in rock. Released in 1988, Opel is a posthumous collection of Syd Barrett's unreleased tracks, capturing the last remnants of his creative output after years of mental health struggles. This album followed his previous solo works, The Madcap Laughs and Barrett, showcasing the evolution of his sound into more introspective and fragmented territory, reflective of his troubled state during this period.

How many songs are on Opel?

Opel has 20 tracks, running approximately 65 minutes.

Released 38 years ago today

Opel

Syd Barrett · 1988

65 min · 20 tracks · progressive rock

A kaleidoscopic blend of whimsical melodies and surreal lyrics that encapsulate Barrett's unique vision and emotional fragility.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Opel — The title track serves as a poignant introduction to Barrett's fragile psyche, encapsulating both beauty and melancholy in its dreamy soundscape.
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Golden Hair — This track features haunting melodies and abstract lyrics that evoke a sense of longing, reflecting Barrett's unique lyrical style inspired by James Joyce.
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Wouldn't You Miss Me (Dark Globe) — A deeply introspective piece, it showcases Barrett's vulnerability and offers insight into his emotional landscape, making it a highlight of the collection.

Tracklist

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

1 Opel 6:26
2 Clowns and Jugglers 3:27
3 Rats 3:12
4 Golden Hair 1:44
5 Dolly Rocker 3:01
6 Word Song 3:19
7 Wined and Dined 3:03
8 Swan Lee (Silas Lang) 3:13
9 Birdie Hop 2:30
10 Let's Split 2:23
11 Lanky, Part One 5:32
12 Wouldn't You Miss Me (Dark Globe) 3:00
13 Milky Way 3:07
14 Golden Hair (instrumental) 1:56
15 Gigolo Aunt (take 9) 4:02
16 It Is Obvious (take 3) 3:44
17 It Is Obvious (take 5) 3:06
18 Clowns and Jugglers (take 1) 3:33
19 Late Night (take 2) 3:19
20 Effervescing Elephant (take 2) 1:28

What to play next

Listen next

Octopus: The Best of Syd Barrett

1992

Go back to

"The Madcap Laughs" and "Barrett"

1974

Full Syd Barrett discography Artists like Syd Barrett

experimental rock progressive rock psychedelic rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata