Sings for Broadside cover

Released 50 years ago

Sings for Broadside

Phil Ochs · 1976

46 min · 12 tracks · folk music

A poignant blend of folk melodies and introspective lyrics that confront societal issues with a personal touch.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Pleasures of the Harbor Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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    Crucifixion — This track stands out for its powerful imagery and critique of societal norms, combining Ochs's signature storytelling with a haunting melody that underscores its serious themes.
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    Outside of a Small Circle of Friends — The song effectively balances humor and social commentary, illustrating Ochs's ability to address complex issues while engaging listeners through relatable narratives.
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    Changes — With its reflective tone, this song encapsulates the sense of uncertainty and transformation prevalent in Ochs's work, making it emblematic of his artistic evolution.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady pacing with reflective moments
  • poignant melodies for deep thinking
  • political commentary for engaged listeners
  • consistent progression towards emotional climax

Maybe skip if you

  • seek instant gratification tracks
  • prefer upbeat party anthems

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Experimental — Represents a shift towards introspective songwriting after the 60s political era.
Themes
post-1960s disillusionment· small-town social critique· intimate protest narratives
Career context
Released in 1976, 'Sings for Broadside' was Phil Ochs's first album after a significant career shift towards more introspective songwriting following the tumultuous political landscape of the 1960s. At this point, Ochs had already established himself as a prominent voice in the folk music scene but was navigating a transition from protest songs to more personal narratives.
Stylistic neighbors
Bob Dylan· Leonard Cohen· Tom Paxton

Tracklist

  • 1 Pleasures of the Harbor Start here 4:24
  • 2 That's What I Want to Hear 3:22
  • 3 I'm Gonna Say It Now 2:07
  • 4 Changes 4:22
  • 5 On Her Hand a Golden Ring 2:44
  • 6 Days of Decision 3:14
  • 7 Santo Domingo 4:38
  • 8 United Fruit 3:04
  • 9 Crucifixion 6:27
  • 10 Outside of a Small Circle of Friends 3:16
  • 11 What Are You Fighting For? 3:08
  • 12 Ringing of Revolution 5:23

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata