Preflyte cover

Preflyte

The Byrds · 1969

93 min · 40 tracks · folk rock

A melodic blend of folk rock and country influences, layered with harmonies that evoke the spirit of the 1960s.

Top tracks — play these first

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    The Reason Why (version II) Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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    Mr. Tambourine Man (electric) — This track exemplifies The Byrds' innovative blend of folk melodies with electric instrumentation, setting a precedent for future folk rock artists.
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    You Showed Me (electric) — Featuring poignant lyrics and a haunting melody, this song showcases the band's early songwriting prowess and emotional depth.
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    I Knew I'd Want You (electric version II) — This track captures the intricate harmonies and jangly guitar sound that would become synonymous with The Byrds' signature style.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic exploration of familiar themes
  • early morning reflective mood
  • waves of melodic harmonies
  • brief tracks for casual listening
  • nostalgic vibes with jangly guitars

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking extended musical journeys
  • prefer aggressive, high-energy sounds

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — Compiles early works that laid groundwork for The Byrds' influential sound.
Career context
Released in January 1969, Preflyte was The Byrds' debut collection of recordings, showcasing their early sound before hitting mainstream success with Mr. Tambourine Man. This compilation draws from their formative years, including tracks from their time as The Jet Set, marking a significant transition in their creative journey.

Tracklist

Disc 1

  • 1 The Reason Why (version II) Start here 2:39
  • 2 You Won’t Have to Cry (electric) 2:18
  • 3 She Has a Way (version IV) 2:29
  • 4 You Showed Me (electric) 1:53
  • 5 Here Without You (version II) 2:29
  • 6 Don’t Be Long 1:58
  • 7 I Knew I’d Want You (electric version II) 2:15
  • 8 Boston (version II) 2:15
  • 9 Tomorrow Is a Long Ways Away (electric) 1:59
  • 10 For Me Again (version II) 2:39
  • 11 It’s No Use (version II) 2:21
  • 12 You Movin’ (version III) 2:09
  • 13 Please Let Me Love You 2:26
  • 14 The Airport Song 2:04
  • 15 Mr. Tambourine Man (electric) 2:26
  • 16 She Has a Way (version III) 2:34
  • 17 I Knew I’d Want You (electric version I) 2:32
  • 18 Boston (instrumental) 2:16
  • 19 You Showed Me (instrumental) 2:06
  • 20 The Times They Are A Changin’ (instrumental) 2:26

Disc 2

  • 1 The Only Girl I Adore – The Jet Set 2:27
  • 2 Tomorrow Is a Long Ways Away (acoustic) 2:02
  • 3 You Showed Me (acoustic) 2:05
  • 4 I Knew I’s Want You (acoustic) 2:19
  • 5 You Won’t Have to Cry (acoustic) 2:22
  • 6 Mr. Tambourine Man (acoustic) 2:14
  • 7 Willie Jean 2:09
  • 8 Come Back Baby 2:26
  • 9 Jack of Diamonds 1:47
  • 10 Get Together 2:35
  • 11 She Has a Way (version I) 2:23
  • 12 Here Without You (version I) 2:30
  • 13 For Me Again (version I) 2:33
  • 14 It’s No Use (version I) 2:18
  • 15 You Movin’ (version I) 2:11
  • 16 Boston (version I) 2:10
  • 17 She Has a Way (version II) 2:33
  • 18 You Movin’ (version II) 2:12
  • 19 The Reason Why (version I) 2:32
  • 20 It’s No Use (version III) 3:38

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata