The Basement Tapes
Bob Dylan · 1975
77 min · 24 tracks · blues · folk rock · jazz
A collage of Americana, blending heartfelt storytelling with loose, spontaneous instrumentation and playful lyricism.
Why this album works
This album is significant for its influence on the Americana genre and has been critically acclaimed for its authentic sound and lyrical depth. It has inspired countless artists across genres, reflecting a shift towards more roots-oriented music in the 1970s and earning a spot on numerous 'greatest albums' lists.
- Best for
- playful storytelling with spontaneity for casual gatherings short tracks for quick enjoyment
- Context
- Released in 1975, 'The Basement Tapes' marked a pivotal moment in Bob Dylan's career as it was his first official release after a period of semi-retirement. Recorded in 1967 with The Band, the album showcases a raw and unpolished side of Dylan, highlighting his artistic evolution following the tumultuous mid-60s.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Tom Waits· Frank Zappa· Prince· Chicago· Blood, Sweat & Tears· Bette Midler· The Pointer Sisters· Steely Dan
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
Disc 1
- 1 Odds and Ends 1:47
- 2 Orange Juice Blues (Blues for Breakfast) 3:39
- 3 Million Dollar Bash 2:33
- 4 Yazoo Street Scandal 3:30
- 5 Goin’ to Acapulco 5:29
- 6 Katie’s Been Gone 2:45
- 7 Lo and Behold! 2:47
- 8 Bessie Smith 4:18
- 9 Clothes Line Saga 2:57
- 10 Apple Suckling Tree 2:49
- 11 Please, Mrs. Henry 2:34
- 12 Tears of Rage Standout 4:12
Disc 2
- 1 Too Much of Nothing 3:03
- 2 Yea! Heavy and a Bottle of Bread 2:15
- 3 Ain’t No More Cane 3:57
- 4 Crash on the Levee (Down in the Flood) 2:05
- 5 Ruben Remus 3:15
- 6 Tiny Montgomery 2:47
- 7 You Ain’t Goin’ Nowhere Standout 2:42
- 8 Don’t Ya Tell Henry 3:14
- 9 Nothing Was Delivered 4:24
- 10 Open the Door, Homer 2:50
- 11 Long Distance Operator 3:40
- 12 This Wheel’s on Fire 3:50
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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