Albums
the velvet underground & nico 45th anniversary - the velvet underground

The Velvet Underground & Nico 45th Anniversary

The Velvet Underground

1967
11 tracks
48 min
proto-punk

Album Description

Step into the raw, unfiltered world of The Velvet Underground with their seminal 1967 debut, "The Velvet Underground & Nico." This isn't just an album; it's a sonic revolution that blends the grit of proto-punk with the avant-garde sensibilities of art rock, creating a sound that was as influential as it was polarizing. The Velvet Underground, under the guidance of Andy Warhol, crafted an album that was a stark departure from the mainstream, reflecting the counterculture movements of the time, including Beat poetry, Pop Art, and French New Wave filmmaking.

The album kicks off with the jangly "Sunday Morning," a stark contrast to the dark, provocative lyrics that follow. Tracks like "I'm Waiting for the Man" and "Heroin" delve into the seedy underbelly of urban life, while "Venus in Furs" and "Femme Fatale" explore themes of desire and dominance. Nico's haunting vocals on songs like "All Tomorrow's Parties" and "I'll Be Your Mirror" add a layer of ethereal beauty to the album's raw edge.

This 45th-anniversary edition is a treasure trove for fans and newcomers alike. It includes the original stereo version of the album, along with five alternate versions, practice sessions recorded at Andy Warhol's Factory, a live recording, and a remaster of Nico's solo work. The six-disc set is housed in a 90-page hardcover book with an original peelable banana sticker, paying homage to the iconic album cover designed by Warhol.

Despite its initial underperformance in sales and mixed critical reception, "The Velvet Underground & Nico" has since been recognized as a groundbreaking work that laid the foundation for countless bands to come. The Velvet Underground's uncompromising approach to both sound and lyrics continues to inspire, making this anniversary edition a essential addition to any music collection.

Tracks

Sunday MorningThe Velvet Underground, Nico
2:55
I'm Waiting For The ManThe Velvet Underground, Nico
4:39
Femme FataleThe Velvet Underground, Nico
2:39
Venus In FursThe Velvet Underground, Nico
5:12
Run Run RunThe Velvet Underground, Nico
4:22
All Tomorrow's PartiesThe Velvet Underground, Nico
5:59
HeroinThe Velvet Underground, Nico
7:13
There She Goes AgainThe Velvet Underground, Nico
2:41
I'll Be Your MirrorThe Velvet Underground, Nico
2:14
The Black Angel's Death SongThe Velvet Underground, Nico
3:12
European SonThe Velvet Underground, Nico
7:47

PLAY ON SPOTIFY

About The Velvet Underground

The Velvet Underground, formed in New York City in 1964, are an American rock band renowned for their experimental and influential music that transcended conventional boundaries. Led by the iconic Lou Reed and featuring the talents of John Cale, Sterling Morrison, and Moe Tucker, the band's provocative lyrics and avant-garde sound laid the groundwork for punk rock, new wave, and alternative music. Their association with Andy Warhol and the New York art scene further cemented their status as cultural pioneers. With a legacy defined by their pioneering approach to rock music, The Velvet Underground's impact resonates through their experimental sound and provocative lyrics, making them one of the most influential bands in rock history. Their debut album, featuring the German singer Nico, is considered a cornerstone of rock and pop music, blending elements of avant-garde, experimental, and proto-punk styles. The band's story is vividly chronicled in the 2021 film "The Velvet Underground," directed by Todd Haynes, which offers a deep dive into their incandescent world and enduring legacy.

2,067,672 Followers