Various Positions
Leonard Cohen · 1984
35 min · 9 tracks · blues · folk rock · pop rock
A haunting blend of poetic lyrics and sparse instrumentation, evoking deep emotional resonance.
Why this album works
- Best for
- steady reflective emotional journey haunting melodies for quiet moments intimate listening in solitude
- Context
- By 1984, Leonard Cohen was transitioning into a new phase of his career after a prolonged hiatus. 'Various Positions' marked his return to recording, following the commercial disappointment of his previous album 'Recent Songs' in 1979. This release began to re-establish his presence in the music scene while showcasing a more introspective and contemplative sound.
- If you like
- blues, folk rock, pop rock
Various Positions is an album by Leonard Cohen, released in 1984. A haunting blend of poetic lyrics and sparse instrumentation, evoking deep emotional resonance. 'Various Positions' is significant for introducing 'Hallelujah', which would later achieve immense popularity and become a staple in popular culture through covers by various artists. The album did not chart highly upon its release but has since been re-evaluated as an essential work in Cohen's discography, influencing countless musicians with its lyrical depth and emotional weight. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Various Positions sound like?
A haunting blend of poetic lyrics and sparse instrumentation, evoking deep emotional resonance. Rooted in blues and folk rock.
What makes Various Positions by Leonard Cohen notable?
'Various Positions' is significant for introducing 'Hallelujah', which would later achieve immense popularity and become a staple in popular culture through covers by various artists. The album did not chart highly upon its release but has since been re-evaluated as an essential work in Cohen's discography, influencing countless musicians with its lyrical depth and emotional weight. By 1984, Leonard Cohen was transitioning into a new phase of his career after a prolonged hiatus. 'Various Positions' marked his return to recording, following the commercial disappointment of his previous album 'Recent Songs' in 1979. This release began to re-establish his presence in the music scene while showcasing a more introspective and contemplative sound.
Who is Various Positions for?
Various Positions works well if you're into steady reflective emotional journey, haunting melodies for quiet moments and intimate listening in solitude.
How many songs are on Various Positions?
Various Positions has 9 tracks, running approximately 35 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Dance Me to the End of Love Standout 4:40
- 2 Coming Back to You 3:35
- 3 The Law 4:28
- 4 Night Comes On 4:41
- 5 Hallelujah Standout 4:39
- 6 The Captain 4:10
- 7 Hunter’s Lullaby 2:26
- 8 Heart With No Companion 3:04
- 9 If It Be Your Will Standout 3:43
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