Volume Two cover

Volume Two

Soft Machine · 1969

33 min · 17 tracks · progressive rock · psychedelic rock · jazz rock

An avant-garde fusion of jazz, rock, and experimental soundscapes that defy conventional structure.

Why this album works

Best for
dynamic exploration of soundscapes short interludes and transitions immersive listening experience
Context
Soft Machine's 'Volume Two' is their second album, released in September 1969, following their self-titled debut. At this point, the band was solidifying their experimental approach within the burgeoning Canterbury scene, infusing jazz elements into rock music. This album marked a significant evolution from their earlier work, showcasing more complex compositions and a range of influences.
If you like
progressive rock, psychedelic rock, jazz rock

Volume Two is an album by Soft Machine, released in 1969. An avant-garde fusion of jazz, rock, and experimental soundscapes that defy conventional structure. The album received critical acclaim for its innovative blend of genres and helped establish Soft Machine as pioneers of progressive rock. It has influenced countless artists within the genre and continues to be referenced in discussions about experimental music from the late '60s. Notably, it charted in the UK, further solidifying the band's presence in the music scene. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Volume Two sound like?

An avant-garde fusion of jazz, rock, and experimental soundscapes that defy conventional structure. Rooted in progressive rock and psychedelic rock.

What makes Volume Two by Soft Machine notable?

The album received critical acclaim for its innovative blend of genres and helped establish Soft Machine as pioneers of progressive rock. It has influenced countless artists within the genre and continues to be referenced in discussions about experimental music from the late '60s. Notably, it charted in the UK, further solidifying the band's presence in the music scene. Soft Machine's 'Volume Two' is their second album, released in September 1969, following their self-titled debut. At this point, the band was solidifying their experimental approach within the burgeoning Canterbury scene, infusing jazz elements into rock music. This album marked a significant evolution from their earlier work, showcasing more complex compositions and a range of influences.

Who is Volume Two for?

Volume Two works well if you're into dynamic exploration of soundscapes, short interludes and transitions and immersive listening experience.

How many songs are on Volume Two?

Volume Two has 17 tracks, running approximately 33 minutes.

Tracklist

17 tracks·33:33

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Pataphysical Introduction, Part I 1:00
  • 2 A Concise British Alphabet, Part I 0:09
  • 3 Hibou, Anemone and Bear Standout 5:59
  • 4 A Concise British Alphabet, Part II 0:12
  • 5 Hullo Der 0:54
  • 6 Dada Was Here 3:25
  • 7 Thank You Pierrot Lunaire 0:48
  • 8 Have You Ever Bean Grean? 1:19
  • 9 Pataphysical Introduction, Part II 0:51
  • 10 Out of Tunes 2:34
  • 11 As Long as He Lies Perfectly Still 2:34
  • 12 Dedicated to You but You Weren’t Listening Standout 2:32
  • 13 Fire Engine Passing With Bells Clanging 1:50
  • 14 Pig 2:09
  • 15 Orange Skin Food 1:47
  • 16 A Door Opens and Closes 1:09
  • 17 10:30 Returns to the Bedroom Standout 4:13

Release Date

September 1, 1969

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Runtime

33 min 33 sec