Visor, svarta och röda cover

Visor, svarta och röda

Cornelis Vreeswijk · 1972

32 min · 12 tracks · blues

A vibrant fusion of folk melodies and bluesy rhythms, steeped in poignant storytelling and cultural commentary.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Staffan var en stalledräng Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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    Desertören — This track serves as a powerful anti-war anthem, resonating with the political sentiments of the time while maintaining an engaging melody. Its poignant lyrics reflect Vreeswijk's ability to blend activism with artistry.
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    Djävulens sång — In this song, Vreeswijk cleverly adapts a classic melody to explore themes of morality and temptation, showcasing his knack for storytelling through music. The playful yet dark narrative captures his unique style.
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    Helena (She's An Easy Rider) — This track exemplifies Vreeswijk's ability to weave personal stories with broader social commentary, reflecting on relationships while embracing a carefree spirit. Its catchy chorus invites sing-alongs that enhance its memorable quality.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady mid-tempo storytelling flow
  • melodic charm for casual listening
  • engaging narratives for reflective moments
  • short tracks for breaks

Maybe skip if you

  • seekers of instant gratification
  • prefer standalone singles only

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Critical Peak — Showcases Vreeswijk's lyrical prowess and musical versatility, marking a high point in his career.
Themes
anti-war sentiment· Swedish folk storytelling· moral temptation narratives
Career context
Released in 1972, Visor, svarta och röda was Cornelis Vreeswijk's fifth studio album, arriving after his breakthrough success with earlier records. At this point in his career, Vreeswijk had established himself as a significant figure in Swedish music, known for blending traditional folk with contemporary themes.
Stylistic neighbors
Bert Jansch· Nick Drake· John Martyn

Tracklist

  • 1 Staffan var en stalledräng Start here 3:00
  • 2 Helena (She's An Easy Rider) 3:21
  • 3 Desertören (Le déserteur) 2:40
  • 4 Till herr Andersson 3:18
  • 5 Djävulens sång (Le Gorille) 2:21
  • 6 Ulla Winblad 1:36
  • 7 Menuett på Haga (Polka du roi) 3:03
  • 8 Jack uppskäraren 3:29
  • 9 Jenny Jansson (Jenny Jenkins) 2:22
  • 10 The Establishment 2:23
  • 11 Avanti Popolo 1:57
  • 12 Vaggvisa för Bim, Cornelis och alla andra människor på jorden 2:44

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata