The Raven
Lou Reed · 2003
75 min · 21 tracks · alternative rock · folk rock · psychedelic rock
A haunting blend of narrative spoken word and melodic rock, steeped in gothic imagery and literary references.
Why this album works
- Best for
- dynamic journey with narrative peaks haunting themes of gothic imagery thoughtful exploration of literary references
- Context
- Released in 2003, 'The Raven' marked Lou Reed's exploration of literary themes, particularly his fascination with Edgar Allan Poe. This album came six years after his critical success with 'Set the Twilight Reeling' and showcased Reed's continued evolution as an artist willing to merge music with storytelling.
- If you like
- alternative rock, folk rock, psychedelic rock
The Raven is an album by Lou Reed, released in 2003. A haunting blend of narrative spoken word and melodic rock, steeped in gothic imagery and literary references. 'The Raven' is notable for its ambitious concept, intertwining Reed's music with Poe's poetry, which led to a unique reception. While it did not achieve commercial success on the charts, it was praised for its artistic daring and has influenced artists aiming to blend literary elements with music. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does The Raven sound like?
A haunting blend of narrative spoken word and melodic rock, steeped in gothic imagery and literary references. Rooted in alternative rock and folk rock.
What makes The Raven by Lou Reed notable?
'The Raven' is notable for its ambitious concept, intertwining Reed's music with Poe's poetry, which led to a unique reception. While it did not achieve commercial success on the charts, it was praised for its artistic daring and has influenced artists aiming to blend literary elements with music. Released in 2003, 'The Raven' marked Lou Reed's exploration of literary themes, particularly his fascination with Edgar Allan Poe. This album came six years after his critical success with 'Set the Twilight Reeling' and showcased Reed's continued evolution as an artist willing to merge music with storytelling.
Who is The Raven for?
The Raven works well if you're into dynamic journey with narrative peaks, haunting themes of gothic imagery and thoughtful exploration of literary references.
How many songs are on The Raven?
The Raven has 21 tracks, running approximately 75 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Overture 1:05
- 2 Edgar Allan Poe Standout 3:20
- 3 Call on Me 2:07
- 4 The Valley of Unrest 2:26
- 5 A Thousand Departed Friends 4:58
- 6 Change 2:18
- 7 The Bed 3:32
- 8 Perfect Day Standout 3:27
- 9 The Raven Standout 6:30
- 10 Balloon 1:01
- 11 Broadway Song 3:12
- 12 Blind Rage 3:25
- 13 Burning Embers 3:22
- 14 Vanishing Act 5:23
- 15 Guilty 4:54
- 16 I Wanna Know (The Pit and the Pendulum) 6:58
- 17 Science of the Mind 1:36
- 18 Hop Frog 1:46
- 19 Tripitena's Speech 2:19
- 20 Who Am I (Tripitena's Song) 4:31
- 21 Guardian Angel 6:51
Release Date
January 1, 2003
Artist Origin
United States
Runtime
75 min 11 sec
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