Preservation Act 2
The Kinks · 1974
77 min · 23 tracks · hard rock · garage rock · power pop
A theatrical exploration of societal issues, merging rock opera with biting social commentary and eclectic musical styles.
Why this album works
- Best for
- theatrical narrative experiences long, immersive listening sessions thought-provoking lyrical themes
- Context
- Released in January 1974, 'Preservation Act 2' is the second part of The Kinks' ambitious rock opera project, following 'Preservation Act 1'. At this point in their career, The Kinks were navigating a transition from their earlier pop rock sound into more complex thematic narratives, reflecting both personal and societal struggles. This album marked a significant moment as they sought to reinvent themselves artistically while facing fluctuating commercial success.
- If you like
- hard rock, garage rock, power pop
Preservation Act 2 is an album by The Kinks, released in 1974. A theatrical exploration of societal issues, merging rock opera with biting social commentary and eclectic musical styles. 'Preservation Act 2' received mixed critical reception but is notable for its ambitious narrative structure and social critique, which influenced subsequent rock operas. The album showcases The Kinks' commitment to storytelling in music, a concept that resonated with the growing progressive rock movement of the era, despite not achieving significant chart success. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Preservation Act 2 sound like?
A theatrical exploration of societal issues, merging rock opera with biting social commentary and eclectic musical styles. Rooted in hard rock and garage rock.
What makes Preservation Act 2 by The Kinks notable?
'Preservation Act 2' received mixed critical reception but is notable for its ambitious narrative structure and social critique, which influenced subsequent rock operas. The album showcases The Kinks' commitment to storytelling in music, a concept that resonated with the growing progressive rock movement of the era, despite not achieving significant chart success. Released in January 1974, 'Preservation Act 2' is the second part of The Kinks' ambitious rock opera project, following 'Preservation Act 1'. At this point in their career, The Kinks were navigating a transition from their earlier pop rock sound into more complex thematic narratives, reflecting both personal and societal struggles. This album marked a significant moment as they sought to reinvent themselves artistically while facing fluctuating commercial success.
Who is Preservation Act 2 for?
Preservation Act 2 works well if you're into theatrical narrative experiences, long, immersive listening sessions and thought-provoking lyrical themes.
How many songs are on Preservation Act 2?
Preservation Act 2 has 23 tracks, running approximately 77 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Announcement 0:41
- 2 Introduction to Solution 2:44
- 3 When a Solution Comes 3:41
- 4 Money Talks Standout 3:45
- 5 Announcement 0:55
- 6 Shepherds of the Nation 4:18
- 7 Scum of the Earth 2:45
- 8 Second‐Hand Car Spiv 4:02
- 9 He’s Evil 4:26
- 10 Mirror of Love Standout 3:27
- 11 Announcement 0:34
- 12 Nobody Gives 6:35
- 13 Oh Where Oh Where Is Love? 3:41
- 14 Flash’s Dream (The Final Elbow) 4:18
- 15 Flash’s Confession 4:07
- 16 Nothing Lasts Forever 3:43
- 17 Announcement 0:20
- 18 Artificial Man Standout 5:31
- 19 Scrapheap City 3:17
- 20 Announcement 1:06
- 21 Salvation Road 3:21
- 22 Mirror of Love Standout 3:30
- 23 Slum Kids (take 1) 6:29
Release Date
January 1, 1974
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Runtime
77 min 16 sec
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