Reviews (page 10 of 14)
J - 3/5 Best Track - "Sunday Morning" F - DNL
I really want to like this band. Femme Fatale is a gem, for sure, but the rest of this really doesn't do anything for me. Iconic album cover, one that I'm sure everyone has seen...but that doesn't make me want to listen to this more than once.
I'm disappointed here; this is one of the greatest albums of all time? In what way? While it did have its folk-rock charm, and a unique variety, it became a bit boring, and it wasn't easy hearing Lou Reed. Favorite Track: "Heroin".
3 maybe 4
It was fine! Not really for me, but sure!
Interesting, creative, weird, and touching on a number of genres. Being slightly lazy as I listened a week ago and can’t be bothered to listen again, so just dipped back into a few songs for a refresh.
Two Nico Albums in a row, lucky me!
overrated lul
Solid album, somewhat boring but overall not bad
Some legendary songs are supported by some, honestly, droning filler. The last two songs are painful. VU are rightly legends for their music, but Jesus - some of their output was pure scag.
Can’t listen to this anymore.
anschinend mega wichtig fürd musiggschicht als pionierwerch, und es tönt au immer wieder vil neuer als es isch. mer ghört halt aber trotzdem no recht d 60er dure, was weniger mis ding isch.
teilwiis no kuul, teilwiis sehr lärmig
Flummig men ok
It was ok
A big gap in my musical knowledge, pleased to have filled it. Unsure what to make of it though, avant-garde, some of it comes across as a bit pretentious even, especially the second half, but clearly a ground-breaking work.
Groundbreaking? Yes. Opened on an all-timer and closed on the worst sound I have ever heard? Also yes.
not listened to it properly
I have explored this 💿 multiple times. I think VU is a band I’ll make a playlist of. Greatest Hits… I can probably do that. There are some that are trippy and interesting here. Some just don’t land for me yet.
Influential <> Music I love Songs: Sunday Morning
Some great songs, some songs are very Lou Reed oddness -Sunday Morning -I'll Be Your Mirror
I think this album has been a tad overrated over the years. There are some undisputable great songs but the "edgy" stuff leaves me cold and, if I had to hear Nico sing the word "clown" one more time, I would have lowered it a star.
Highlights: Sunday Morning, Run Run Run. In a nutshell: deliberately freaking out the squares. Overall: 6/10
I've listened to this before, didn't love it. We'll see if I change my mind. I'm still overall indifferent. "Sunday Morning" is good.
Its interesting enough, don't know if there's enough there to exit the meh but it's not a dislike
To me the velvet underground ground are cheap knockoff of Bob Dylan. 3/5
the songs with nico do absolutely nothing for me but heroin & the last two tracks are so peak. 5/5 importance 3/5 music
Нормик
People say this album is super influential, and I don't doubt it - and maybe it's because I wasn't around when this came out - but it just doesn't hit too hard for me. I think Heroin is very cool, and I'm not too fond of the experimental bits, but I think it's supremely overrated if anything.
I was excited to listen to this, it was a new one for me. Right off the bat I recognized “Sunday Morning,” great song. I expected this to be more hard rock, but they were actually kinda pleasant easy listening pop rock songs. They still got weird there at the end with the more experimental instrumentation cacophony sounds. And hey, cool album cover.
Got 2 of the list's 3 Velvet Underground albums in the same week... I quite enjoyed The Velvet Underground (their 1969 album) so I was optimistic going into this one. I enjoyed parts of it, but I wasn't as enamored as I was with the 1969 album. Top track is probably "Heroin," which has the interesting approach of sort of musically emulating heroin usage.
Low 3
I got a bit behind on albums so only had time to give this one listen. It was okay, I didn't like it a lot but didn't dislike it either.
Decent album that is nice, but I don't have a lot of reason to revisit. Maybe though. 3/5
Good in parts
I really didn't much care for this album to be honest. It's not bad, just not for me.
I'm a fan of Nico. I appreciate the avant-garde style of some of these songs, but some are so jarring that it isn't the kind of thing I want to listen to more than once.
Easy classic, but doesn't grab me
Not what I'd pick, but not bad.
Psych en abrasive. Sound of the drug infused late 60s
Some highlights but not really my thing overall
Keith - 4/10 Ross - 7.5/10 Caylum - 7.5/10
Groundbreaking in its day, of course, but still surprisingly listenable today in a way that most of the "experimental" efforts of the late 60s are not. Lou Reed anchors it with a keen awareness of how to prioritize the music and assure the shock of the experimental parts are not overshadowing.
Overrated but not like "bad". Just keep doing the freak outs, not trying to force those parts and actual songs together?
👻
Alright interesting rock, similar tones to the Beatles, 3/5
Didn’t mind it.
No denying its influence and there are good moments on here. But this is also overrated and not one of the greatest albums ever made. It does belong in the book and on this list but I can't call it best ever like so many critics do.
First listen to VU & Nico. The only song I was familiar with is "Femme Fatale" because of the REM cover. Think I prefer the Lou Reed-sung songs to Nico's.
Very good.
I can see how this is as influential as it is, very unconventional for the time for sure. It's mostly the overall sound and experimental instrumentation that drew me in, Nico's vocals on Femme Fatal (probably my favorite song) stood out as well. Lyrics describing Heroin trips aren't my cup of tea at all, but I guess it was 'edgy' at the time... I don't think the album is nearly as good as it's generally rated, but it definitely was an interesting listen. It's one of those culturally significant records I've never checked out before, so I'm glad I finally did, although I'm not sure I'll feel the need to revisit it again.
I don't like Nico, but thankfully the VU tracks make up for it.
Velvet and nicos album does a great job of carving out a unique space midst the era of classic rock. It’s soothing and consistent and still experimental. I don’t think the experimental parts and some of the routines click for me but I’m glad to have revisited this as part of this journey
It’s ok, need a relisten. Probably suffering from Seinfeld syndrome.
Thankfully stuck with it as next tracks were more expansive and had a better blues like vibe for me. Some songs even had a (little less rocky) led zeppelin feel. Amazing this came out of 60s. It's a grower so maybe I could come around to this eventually.
I like some of the melodies, nothing stands out as amazing. It was overall enjoyable and I would probably listen to this again. Not a fan any of the Nico led songs though. Favorite songs were: Pale Blue Eyes After Hours 6/10
First half is really good, second half is very strange
It’s definitely good but feels pretty overrated
I liked the first song and could’ve sworn that I knew it from somewhere. I still might but I don’t know where
Well written songs held back by confusing changes in tone and randomly inserted annoying guitar sounds
There's a bit of an unhinged feeling to it at times, frenetic. Overall a perfectly fine listen, but the voice gets to feel a bit grating to me too.
Sunday Morning, All tomorrow’s parties, Heroin, I’ll be your mirror and Europe son are a must listen. Sadly, the remaining songs are repetitive and they do not contribute to the album. Europe son sounds like some experimental song from a Sonic Youth album, the whole sound of the album could be better with that specific sound.
I don’t get it. I’ve tried even before now to get into The Velvet Underground and I’m never able to. I’m not sure if there’s something I’m missing or they are just not that good?
I’m with Daria and her opinion of this record, “Should I file this under Self-Indulgent Posers or Underrated Geniuses?” I like weird, artsy, and innovative music, but something feels off about this record. Almost like it’s being weird, and artsy just for the sake of being weird and artsy, and the music is just the medium for a bunch of avant guard weirdos to do their thing. Maybe you just had to be there and catch this shit when it was fresh, but count me out. 2.5 ⭐️ rounding up. I get this album is generally considered influential, and I am probably a bit too dumb to properly appreciate it.
Very much of its time. Evocative and interesting lyrics. Some of the sounds a bit experimental - some too discordant and not enjoyable. I prefer the tracks with Lou Reed on lead vocal.
> The Beatles
I don't know what to do with this. 2.5-3ish?
Started off very strongly, unfortunately I think it is let down by the last couple of tracks, the black angels death song and European Son. Will definitely listen again after only ever listened to the well known tracks before.
I'm always surprised by how repetitive VU songs are... not in a bad way necessarily, but they really enjoyed letting songs play out for a long time. Surprising lack of nico in some of these tracks also. I like "All Tomorrow's Parties" a lot. Heroin was also deeply moving, really dark song that made me quite sad, but it works very well. I liked I'll be your mirror too. Not a huge fan of the experimental tracks but this is a solid record for sure. 3.5, higher for a few stand out songs
I understand this album was groundbreaking, but it's not really my cup of tea. It's ok.
Liked some of this, but not overly excited about it.
First? 3,5 /5 Again? 2/5
Run run run was almost a verge into country music. interesting structure with Nico being a sort of reprieve from the most rock elements.
A more psychedelic Beatles. Some classics, but inconsistent, and devolves into a closing jam sesh at the end.
Heroin was a great song. Can't stand Nico.
Feels weird to say, but I'm kinda iffy on this one. The tracks I liked, I really liked. Heroin in particular was a highlight. But there were other parts that didn't quite hook me the same way.
Idk. Maybe I just didn’t get it. I also didn’t feel great yesterday and this was a little overstimulating so maybe that impacted me. Might listen again! Favorite track: Venus in Furs
It gets a 3 but it almost got a 2 just because of heroin and European son
I have never been addicted to heroin so I don't really know to relate to this. I've listened to it many times but I just don't get it. In context it's probably a masterpiece but to my ears it just sounds bad. It's one of those albums that you have to like because the critics tell you you should
Turns out I’m I’m not as big on the VU as I thought I was.
Heroin is life changing.
Meh
Cool early alt. 3/5
Standouts: I'm Waiting For The Man, Run Run Run, Venus In Furs, Heroin. I think I like the band but not Nico but this is my first time really listening to them.
n/a
1. Listless regretful song about a sunday morning after a particularly hard Saturday. 2. Waiting for a fix with a constant percussive beat in the background creating anxiety. 3. Soft song about a seductive woman who will break your heart 4. Jam song about sadomasochism. Sound as though the writer would give up their life to serve in a bdsm relationship. 5. Song following characters who need to find their fix of various drugs after trying to stop. The guitar solos are increasingly out of tune and brash. 6. Another driftless song of a time I don't really understand. 7. First song that connected with me. Has a changing energy related to his drug use but isn't glorified in any way like most music. This sounds like the birth of the music that I listen mostly to now (punk) 8.Jam song related to prostitution. Ends with almost a modern type punk chord progression. 9. Another song with Nico. I for some reason cannot connect with the vocals when she is featured. Song mostly related to trying to show someone what they don't see. 10. Unsettling beat in the background while making a folksy/poetic style talk song about drug use. 11. Short song reference with a scratching noise to close out the album. Overall I think this album misses me. It has some pieces and the bright spot was the song Heroin but I don't think the avant garde pieces connected.
I thought this was just okay 3/5
good
From Google: The Velvet Underground & Nico is the debut studio album by the American rock band the Velvet Underground and the German singer Nico. Released by Verve Records in March 1967, the album underperformed in sales and polarized critics upon release due to its abrasive, unconventional sound and controversial lyrical content. Wikipedia Artists: The Velvet Underground, Nico Genres: Rock, Art rock, Psychedelic rock, Experimental rock. My score: 4.5 Liked the sound, it is a more alternative music, very nice to listen to, but not my favourite kind of music. Some songs are too alternative for me.
I know people love this album, but it just doesn’t speak to me.
Johnny Cash at his iconic best.
I've always been slightly underwhelmed by this particular album.
Velvet Underground is important in who they later influenced, but the band itself has always been sorta hit or miss with me. This album was more of a miss. 2.5
Liked the first half of the album- used to hear a bunch of those songs at Quiksilver but then it got really sketch and abstract lol - could have been 4 stars
Not bad.
Vocals didn't sound great to me, and instrumentals were alright.
Enjoyed it enough but won’t be revisiting.
Some good tracks for sure but also a few whiffs that went to much on the artsy side
While Sunday morning is a great song, I've never been especially impressed with the rest of the album. Nico is underutilized, and Lou Reed, while a talented musician, is not a vocalist or lyricist I prefer. Not bad overall but not amazing. 3/5
There's no denying the historical impact left behind by the Velvet Underground. They continue to influence bands and probably always will, which is why it's only sensible to include them among these albums. And they were good at what they did. Some of these songs are legendary, for better or worse. I've never been able to fully embrace them though, no matter how much respect I have for their legacy. I find some of the lyrics to be problematic, and some of the songs are kind of a mess. That's part of their identity, so I get it, but that doesn't mean I've got to love it. So if my personal rating seems low to you, that's because I've based it as much on the fact they're not entirely my taste as on their artistic merits.I'm glad they existed though, because a lot of artists I love wouldn't sound the same otherwise.
Probably groundbreaking for it's time. Now it's just fine.
gente, ele serve estética... e em algumas músicas. Mas é meio chatinho, né?
I noticed a lot of influences from oriental music. It almost sounded tantric with a single guitar note harmonizing in the back of the lead and rhythm to create an almost ethereal soundscape. I heard the album twice to understand it better and it seems to tell the story of a man who falls in love and slowly loses himself, falls for harder and harder drugs, ends up losing his sanity and becoming captive to his own emotions and problems. The longer you listen to the album, the more you see the music devolve into this raw display of feelings. The music itself feels like a form of protest. They seem to break a lot of rules of how a song should sound like with screeching guitars and notes that conflict with each other by the end as a way of them saying they reject what society wants them to be.
Schlechter als erwartet :( Bisschen enttäuscht, die fire moments sind gut der Rest ist einfach bisschen mittelmäßig
all i could think about while listening to this was all the smart, artsy people who think it's brilliant and also how i never really wanted to listen to it again
Have spent time listening to this album in the past because it was so influential. It’s ok, sometimes a chore to listen to. I think Heroin is my favorite.
It kinda drags on a bit. You can tell it lacks a proper producer for most of the tracks. I can see why it was panned when released but also why it is now considered a cult classic
Overrated. I do like the first few opening tracks, but then the album quickly drifts up it's own arse. Nico's droney vocals annoy me. The experimentation goes bonkers. Lou Reed carries what he can. Can't help but think Andy Warhol's peelable banana artwork concept gave the perception of greater musical value than it actually has. I don't hate it, I just don't see it as the masterpiece it's often lauded to be.
The first 2 tracks were nice, the rest mostly just got on my nerves.
interesting but not for me
I listed to this album a lot many moons ago but not for a while and was glad to hear it again, but it can go back in the vault again.
Bon bah voilà quoi... c'est très bon.
I’ve never personally been a huge fan of the underground. This album I felt was always about a grimy New York life that didn’t resonate with me in the slightest. This was the first time I’ve actually listened to this album in its entirety. While this may not be one I would find myself in the mood to revisit many times again, this is clearly a huge influential album. It really does feel like it transports you to NY in the 60s. The differing energies you find with each song a different facet of life at that time with Reed’s ability to speak to it plainly. I’m not sure what special power Nico has to sing that badly and have it be this enjoyable but she was an excellent addition here. I like Venus in Furs, Femme Fatale, All Tomorrows Parties. Heroin really takes you through that journey. The slowed down mellow with the anxiety-inducing speed up of the music really lets the listener in on the experience. The drums really feel like they’re mimicking different heart rates. Alternatively, Black Angels of Death and European Son are clear examples of why I think overall this band is just not for me. These are the kind of songs I think of when I think of VU and Lou Reed. It’s what has made me avoid them for most my life. I wrestled with giving it a 3 or a 4 because I was trying to make sure I was listening to my personal feelings about it and not being swayed by its legacy. But I know in my heart it’s not a 4 star album for me.
I can understand why it’s great and revolutionary and all that, but it’s not my thing. Also, the Nico songs sound like something straight out of SNL.
I completely understand how influential this album is, but I wouldn't say I really *enjoyed* listening to it. Not horrible, and a vanguard for art-rock to come after it, but I think it takes a concerted effort to listen to this and just *get* that it's revolutionary for so many genres of music.
Coole gitaar solos. Het ene lied vond ik nice, en dan de volgende niet. Het was dus 50/50
If you’ve not listened to this album then it’s better than you think it is. If you have listened to and like this album it’s not as good as you think it is. 3.5 stars.
Mixed
One of the most iconic album covers ever and an album which has also become iconic over the years. This album appeared in my youth but as it was American it made no immediate impression on me. But as the years progressed and Lou Reed and Nico became more famous so did the standing of this album. Even then and having listened I was never totally sold on it. More recently I did change my view on it and actually purchased it as really for a music collector it is a must have album. Best bits are those involving Nico who I have gone on to seek out her music. Love her doom laden voice which is unlike anyone else and instantly recognisable. 3/5 23/11/24
The voice of Nico is even worse than the one of Lou Reed. Some nice tracks like "Run Run Run" but also some sucker like "Heroin" and "European Son". 3,5
When I was a (very young) man of a certain age, I bought this album on CD and listened to it all the time. I thought it would teach me about life, music, everything. I think this will probably the be last time I listen to it. Not that it wasn't worthwhile or good. Just that I'm not that guy any more and this music isn't for the new guy I am.
Interesting sound. I like the vocals.
A couple of real standouts
Ahead of its time and influential to indie and alt rock. Highlights: "Sunday Morning" (tinkling music with Dylan-esque vocals), "I'm Waiting for the Man" (Dylan as a druggie...), "There She Goes Again" (jangle-pop Dylan) Not sure if I *like*, but it's certainly memorable: "Venus in Furs", "Heroin"
Bueno
There are some highlights and lowlights on this album. Lou Reed in general is a highlight - his composing, guitar playing, singing and songwriting is original and solid. Nico's singing is definitely a lowlight. I'm so happy I heard Japan's version of All Tomorrow's Parties first! Liked Songs Added: Sunday Morning
I don't get on with The Velvet Underground. Of course I know Warhol's iconic banana. I also hear the influence of The Velvet Underground on other bands and music that I love. Nevertheless, I am always unfamiliar with this band. And it's the same with this album. I listened with interest in some places. But the album didn't interest me enough to make me want to listen to it again. 3/5
It's okay, Heroin is interesting. Nothing bad, but I guess it's just not my thing. 2 seems unfair, so I'll give it a 3
don't listen to 'Herion' with a headache.
Meh.
Important, trail blazing, yeh yeh yeh but deathly overplayed at this point. 3 stars for the sake of legacy being established
I think if an album is listenable, then it should automatically get two stars. Then, if the album has anything noteworthy, it’s probably at least a 3. Beyond that the album must give something spirited that shoos them into another category. This album is probably a 3.5 for me. It was listenable, and at times even enjoyable, but then I don’t really resonate with a lot of it, and I think that’s necessary for it to be a 4 or above. It was a bit underwhelming especially since I’m still reeling from my love affair with Transformer from a few weeks ago!
Gotta say, I enjoyed it more than I thought I would... It was... Something...
# 356 : I don't love it, I don't hate it. It does get better with each listen, but just because people say this is the coolest album ever made, doesn't make it any better to listen to. It has its moments but is wildly overrated in my opinion. Have the people that rate something 5 stars actually listened/read/watched what they are rating? I liked Run Run Run the best.
The Velvet Underground & Nico has this cool beatnik poet vibe that feels a bit like The Beatles and The Doors but with its own edge. The songs stick to a simple, repetitive groove, which just pulls you in deeper. “Sunday Morning” is such an interesting opener—soft, subtle, and totally ’60s. It sets the mood right away for an album that’s laid-back but still leaves a lasting mark. This one’s got a unique feel that really captures that era
I like to think that, if I was a teenager when this came out, that I'd have been cool enough to be into it. In reality, I'd probably have been listening to the Monkees or the Archies or something. That being said, cool doesn't necessarily mean fun to listen to. There are definitely some good songs on here (Heroin, Sunday Morning, I'm Waiting for the Man), but many kind of droned on a bit too much for me.
I guess this is one of those that hits you or it misses you. Call me Tom Delong.
It's the Velvet Underground & Nico. Absolutely iconic. Buuuut a little boring, actually.
Never a big Velvet Underground fan but they were way ahead of their time. I think they were more popular in the 90s than they were in the 60s and 70s. Still, fun music.
Influential and ahead of it's time. At times haunting, and ethereal rhythms combined with Lou Reeds harsh real world lyrics (Heroin) and Nico's glass like voice, this album is a banger. Fun fact, Andy Warhol was their manager at the time.
Wirklich gut zu hörendes Album.
I get it, important album, inspired many… doesn’t mean I want to listen to it again. Surprisingly, for me, I liked the Nico tracks best. Perhaps, like a fungus, she is growing on me.
Not bad but I go for later Reed.
Groundbreaking in many ways, but…has it stood the test of time…?
Für ein so altes Album klingt es erstaunlich frisch. Ich finde es angenehm zu hören, ist aber jetzt auch nichts was mich mega begeistert. Solide 3/5
He da album isch bim lose zimli a mir cerbii zoche, has glaub okay gfunde
aso sunday morning und im waiting for the man sind seeeehr geil. ich glaub das album isch au afoch wegem cover und si legendär. und de dritt song isch etz au chli arsch wnl. shes a fämm fätäl ok sprecheds richtig uus bitteee. venus in furs isch recht geil mit striicher und alls chli verstimmt. all tomorrows parties isch au afoch wieder hee lueg es isch verstimmt aber s tönt ebe schono geeeeil. find afoch de monoton gsang chli schyze au wenn sie en funny dütsche akzent hett. ah stimmt sie uf drogo und de eint song heisst heroin. ischs revolutionär wells so sloppy isch? s het mega öpis. aber ich ha halt nöd sooo gern shoegaze. und shoegaze lüt liebed das album. ill be your mirror isch cool, aber sooo sloppy. ischs en song? black angels death song isch nice. european song isch huuuere lang und uuhuere lärmig
It's interesting enough, and obviously ahead of its time, but it doesn't make for a terribly exciting listening experience today. I guess you had to be there.
lyrics weren’t too great IMO. However the instrumentals were fantastic in some of the tracks. Not an album I’ll listen to.
This sounds like a British band heard eastern music for the first time and tried to replicate it by droning an out of tune single string melodies over and out of tune guitar chord over a shitty thumping bass over a shitty drum set with lyrics that’s have no substance How was this popular?
Good, but not great. Favs were “Femme Fatale” & “Heroin” initially.
Good album worth a closer look. Might take some time to digest this one.
Good album.
Kann man machen. War damals bestimmt krass. Fühlt sich bisschen nach Stoner Musik jetzt an.
hmmm
So smooth and interesting. I liked this album
A few memorable songs but quite a few forgettable ones. Some experimental songs and unusual sounding instruments that grate a bit on the ears, as do the vocal tomes over the course of the whole album. Starts strongly and fades
A little weird. Hard to dance to. Groovy but not rushing out to buy it.
I didn’t hate it and I almost liked it. I like the grungy classic rock vibe and the familiarity of the songs. The album starts strong but then ends with the absolute drag that is European Son.
I can see how this would appeal to some of the rock fans of the 60s. But, not all music holds up well over time and this didn't do it for me.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
monotonous but enjoyable
Honestly, I thought I was going to enjoy this more than I actually did. I knew "I'll Be Your Mirror" beforehand, and that's a song that I really enjoy, but the rest of the album was kind of disappointing. I mostly enjoyed the songs that Nico sang lead vocals on more than the ones with Lou Reed, and while I appreciate the fact that Andy Warhol being a producer meant that the album was always going to be experimental, I think it was not the fun kind of experimental.
Since this album allegedly influenced every sort of music I like, I've listened to it several times. The problem is, I don't like it as an album. I like some of the songs a lot but don't care for most of them, and I don't think it flows well. Even the songs I do like just make me want to listen to different Lou Reed songs. I'm sure there's something here that I just don't get, but I don't get it even though I've tried.
For the most part this was a half decent album. I was not a fan of the tracks Heroin and European Son. Those were more noise than music.
Goodness… this takes me way back to a different life. The first three songs are something I would have playing at a cool lounge, nice 60’s groovyness. Venus in Furs has always annoyed me a bit… maybe it’s the tambourine or the tempo… or the fact that it sounds a bit like a burnt-out rocker like Billy Mack in the movie “Love, actually” trying to have his moment again.
The Velvet Underground & Nico is an album that suffers from the exact opposite problem of The Fall's The Infotainment Scan (an album i did earlier in this project) whilst the latter album was pretty good musically (with the occasional hiccups) but lacking when it came to vocals. This album is pretty good vocally throughout the majority of the album but is lacking musically. The instruments have the issue of sounding very poorly recorded and that often tends to make them get annoying after a while. This album deserves a 2.5. Best Song: Sunday Morning Worst Song: European Son Side note: I do think the album art having the banana be peelable is a pretty neat idea.
Bothersome lyrics. Some good songs though.
I must be missing something
I gave this a couple listen's trying to understand what it is about this people love so much. The music on this is mostly good, but between Nico and Lou Reed's singing it's a hard listen. I'll say it again... Lou Reeds voice is like a low effort Bowie. I feel like it alone drags this album down.
Very fun, very weird, very arty.
Decent but every song is extremely samey
Nico's vocals and I do not mesh, but unlike her Chelsea Girl album, we are saved by Lou Reed providing the primary vocals. Outside of Nico, this album was rather middle of the road. It's certainly better than "White Light/White Heat" but not better than their self-titled. With this album as their debut, it's clear Velvet Underground had a clear vision of their unique sound. It's such an unrefined sound, and I'd even call it experimental because of how early it is with art rock, punk, and more genres. "Venus in Furs" isn't their most known song but should be. It shows how much Velvet Underground pushed the envelope and Reed's creativity too. Besides, the drum and tambourine driving the song is all consuming. I learned that VU believed "Venus in Furs" was the closest they got to their idealized sound.
I truly do understand Velvet Underground's impact on psychedelic and art rock, but for the life of me, I've never really been able to fully get into them. I will say though, they're probably essentially responsible for the birth of art rock via this album. This album is also chock full of other proto genres that were no doubt influences for the bands that would take them as inspirations and improve upon them. In this regard, this album is among one of the most influential in modern music.
Heroin’s okay, but it’s not as good as other Lou Reed stuff.
Iconische hoes. Knap dat die de tand des tijds moeiteloos heeft doorstaan. Andy Warhols hoogtijdagen liggen al meer dan 50 jaar achter ons. Die kunst vind ik nog wel interessant, de muziek die Velvet Underground maakt is een stuk minder interessant. Er zitten af en toe wel aardige melodieën in, maar die weten ze kunstzinnig te verkrachten met gepiel en nutteloze geluidmakerij. Het zware Duitse accent van Nico helpt ook niet mee. 1 bonuspt voor de iconische hoes
Sunday morning is a really famous song. IDK about the rest. some bangers! 3 or 4 depending on how generous I feel.
The VU may be the most overrated band of all time. “Venus in Furs” is a jam though and I also like “Sunday Morning”.
Can't really find much fault with this album, although its really not my cup of tea. So purely personal preference on the rating
I'm glad they were apparently influential for so many bands that came after them, but this didn't do much for me. It's fine for what it is and when it came out. 2.6
Never had the opportunity to listen to this album in its entirety before now. It’s another one of those you’ve heard of and heard about from waaay back. Although with this album you always heard “don’t waste your time - it’s not that good.” I enjoyed the experience (and wasn’t even drunk, stoned, or trippin’ on heroin.) Didn’t really get many of the songs and that might be why. Album has a strong Dylan vibe; Run Run Run is the best song, the cut European Son could be cut and the album would be improved. I’m not sure why it got such a bad rap, comes in at (3.1*s) for me. I plan to listen to it again front to back when I have the time…(Let’s see if that ever happens)
A gritty, filthy, darkly tinged pop-folk album that was very far ahead of it's time (in 1967), different than anything else in this era for sure. Reed's snide lyrics paint a world both terrifying and beautiful, it's truly fascinating. You can see how this influenced indie rock for ages to come. Trend-fuckers love this shit and I probably would have been all over it too if I were in my early 20's when it came out. It's the right combination of music, art, sleaze, poetry, drugs, and design; a culmination of New York minds that exists on this one specific album at this one very direct time.
I listened to this a lot back in the day but I never liked Nico’s voice with VU. Surprised O didn’t like this more
I’d listen to it again
Banana
Pretty easy to listen to but not going to be my choice
I like the other albums better
Some of these songs were great but others felt self-indulgent or just too 60s for my taste
Salvei Sunday Morning.
I think this is one of those cases where I lack the necessary context to fully appreciate this album. I love Lou Reeds drawling, deadpan vocals and subject matter of a number of the songs here -- I'm Waiting For The Man, Heroin, Venus In Runs, The Black Angel's Death Song. But a lot of other songs, while fine, kind of wash over me without any real effect. I've heard Heroin any number of times, and it is a fantastic song. Super sparse and crunchy, but it works so well. Venus In Furs is the other standout here for me. Love the slow trudge with the uncomfortable droning effect. Fine album, but in the grand scheme its a high 3 for me.
Everyone watch out. Angus just banana creamed his pants with this album. I liked the album until the last song, European Son. It was an annoying song to finish it out with. 3.5 stars overall for me
Solid first half of the album. Fell off toward the end around Heroin. The singer reminds me of Nude Party
Felt like this entire album was drugs and it made me quite uneasy the whole time. There were some pretty sweet musical parts to it though. Heroin was pretty appropriately named, I thought I was ODing. European Son melted my entire brain. Nothing I would choose to listen to again in my free time but it was a cool album to listen to because of the absolute weirdness.
I know this album is influential and legendary af. I've listened to a bunch of times throughout my life and never really "got it". Not bad stuff and I'm sure it was at the time it came out, but maybe I just wasn't paying attention enough. Really digging Venus in Furs. Heroin fuckin rules too. Just an experimental ass song. I could see Nude Party covering a bunch of these songs on here. I find myself liking the weird experimental songs a lot more than anything else on here. Some was great some I just still don't "get". I'll revisit again at some point in my life.
I quite enjoyed, don't really remember any of the songs though
Is this album important: certainly. Is it good: probably. Is it a fun listen: no.
I liked this more when I was younger.
One can’t argue the significance of this album. But if I’m honest, I don’t really love it. Some of the songs are iconic and in that way, I appreciate them. Others are just noisy and sloppy. Bless Nico for giving the ear something to relax into. I’m not a tastemaker though, and quite obviously Lou was. So, 3.9
its nice, but it made me sleepy. just seemed a little too low energy for me in places, even on songs with higher tempos.
Enjoyed this one a lot more when I was younger and first started smoking weed. It’s still good but my patience for songs like “Heroin” and “Venus in Furs” has eroded. Nico has a great voice though and it’s always a treat to hear her
Good
Beatles, maybe indian alike, 3 stars, not full listened
Some moments of genius but not as good as some people say
Love the poetic lyricism of this. Velvet Underground are one of my top bands, ahead of their time. Only turnoff is it can be too avant garde in spots. Reminds me of some intellectuals regarding avant garde jazz that those who dislike it aren’t smart enough to “get it.” Some like melodies and catchy tunes, not a ton of dissonance. I fall in the middle.
Interesting listen 3/5
Really good album. Not quite on the level as “Loaded” but still overall very good. “Sunday Morning” is an amazing song. 3.5/5 Will listen again
awesome
This is one of those hit or miss albums, as is the case with pretty much anything classified as "art rock". This sounds both of its time and ahead of its time if that makes sense. If I were to pick a specific track that encapsulates what The Velvet Underground is trying to sell here, it would probably be "Heroin". This track is a trip (pun intended) with its up and down tempo and eventual buildup into chaos with the backing instruments, eventually overtaking the vocals for the last minute or so. Likely simulating the feeling of taking heroin (not that I would know, please don't shoot up on heroin). The rest of the album is admittedly a tough listen outside of a few other songs. Much of it meanders too much in no particular direction for my liking. Groundbreaking for its time? That I can probably agree on. Would I listen again? Probably not. But what the hell do I know? I do know that having Andy Warhol design your album cover is pretty damn iconic. That's probably the most famous banana in history, next to the Bluth's Original Frozen Banana Stand.
Good, not my vibe.
Boring and monotonous.
The famous Banana album. I had ever actually The Velvet Underground. This album is extremely hyped so I was excited. Sadly it doesn’t quite live up for me. It’s impressive that this was released in 1967, it definitely sounds ahead of its time. There is an indie feel mixed with a much more standard 60s rock sound. I love the building tension in many songs. I much preferred the rawer guitar sounds on the Side B, Heroin and There She Goes Again stand out 6.9/10
I think the most iconic thing about this album is probably the artwork. The first 3 tracks are good, but then I lost interest. Tried listening a second time and the same thing happened.
I was pleasantly surprised and knew more songs than I thought I would. This album seems so familiar.. I feel like it must just be the picture and the handful of hits in it. I definitely enjoyed it, but felt like it tapered off in the second half.
It's okay, but it doesn't really do much for me.
Cooler than it is good. Just like heroin really. 3.4/5
Pretty good. Was worth the listen
No mis siis? Poisid tegid veits hero - hull asi nüüd, sa ei pea kohe turja kargama neile. Aga siin pladil on mingeid epic asju. 3.5
Very inventive and influential, but outside of a few songs (Sunday Morning, Heroin, European Son) this album is totally uninsteresting. I don't think I could name another song on here. But the 3 that are good are so good they are each worth a star
Nico ha una voce splendida, forse la cosa più bella di questo album. bella pure la copertina, e bravo Andy per questo.
Not my fave music but I appreciate its influence
I love this music, excellent ambience and sound. the way it feels like you're existing within a manufactured world created by the sounds of the music. the final track was interstingly a lot of noise, that got more musical and then not, could,ve been rated higher if not for that
Of it’s time. You can hear why it became a cult classic.
It's dated, but some of the material is still very good. However, the screeching guitar in the middle of Run Run Run was extremely unpleasant. Why would you do that?
3.5 Like Radiohead, this album existed in my head as a thing I was supposed to like that I had never actually listened to. Also like Radiohead, I wouldn't call it the greatest album of all time or give it the hate it gets from the other side of the fence. I generally lean toward less discordant stuff (Sunday Morning is my favorite on here) but Heroin is pretty cool.
pretty good kinda weird
Yep, enjoyed it.
3.5
One of the more overrated albums imo. The Nico tracks are pretty diar. Heroin probably the only standout. I get for it's time it was groundbreaking, but unlike a lot of similar groundbreaking albums around that time (from the likes of the Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, Stooges, Sabbath etc.) I don't think it's aged particularly well. It sounds like pretty bland dream-pop that would have been forgotten instantly were it released a decade later. 2.5*
3 based on I’ll be your mirror and Sunday morning. The rest is pretty average.
I understand how this was cool 6 decades ago, but by today's standards it doesn't hold up for me. That being said, I respect that it's just a bunch of kids doing drugs and making music. 2.5/5
3/5 - Nico was never my bag
It's harsh, but this album is nothing extraordinary. I realize it was 1967 when it came out, but there are just better bands from these times.
Boring but Sounds nice. Also Venus in furs is good
By 1967 the “summer of love” was in full swing on the west coast. However, New York has a different, and much darker scene filled with drug use and crime. Lou Reed attempted to capture that on this record. I commend him for discussing these topics in a time where everything was censored music-wise. However, there are some gripes I have with this record. I’m not a Nico fan. I don’t think she ruins the record, but her vocals take away some enjoyment for certain songs imo. The production is also very inconsistent, which is expected for the time. Still some cool stuff on here. The very beginnings of punk, noise rock, and avant-garde.
A bit psychedelic, liked the guitars more than the vocals.
I don't know about this. Like everyone else I've been preached to about this album for years, but I just don't get it. Some of the tracks are great, some are filler, and some feature Niko prominently, and should be ignored.
60’s easy listening soft rock.
Not bad.
aleady listened to it. pretty good
I liked a handful of the songs, but many were very uninteresting and faded into the background.
I remember thinking this album was pretty good, but on todays first listen, i was so unbelievably annoyed by the closing track European Son. Thats not a song, its a bunch of people mashing their instruments until a song ends. Woeful song, tainted my opinion on everything that came before, not just on this album, but in life
- I am not shocked that this was not commercially successful in 1967. There are some truly experimental moments on this record and you can feel the Velvet Underground pushing into what what would be more psychedelic rock. That being said, some of those moments, while interesting, are not particularly fun to listen to. - "Heroin" is fantastic. (Never thought I would say that.) Easily the best track. - Found "The Black Angel's Death Song" to be somewhat aggravating. And "European Son" goes on way too long. I see where the thought was behind both, they are never mindless, but I also was not feeling the groove.
Never heard this type of early alternative music. I think most of the songs are about a min too long. Not a fan of super repetative stuff. It's ok 3/5
“The Velvet Underground were largely ignored during heir original run from the mid-'60s into the early '70s“ - so maybe in a decade or two after a first listen I’ll appreciate them more? in the meantime I can be a bit underwhelmed. There are definitely some enjoyable tracks here but the album as a whole I can’t endorse when it includes the unpleasant listening experiences of heroin and European son along the way.
Very famous album which I had never listened to before but was surprisingly okay
Two Velvet underground albums in three days.. At least we got the good one last.
Sunday Morning 3.8 I'm Waiting for the Man 4 Femme Fatale 3.9 Venus in Furs 4 Run Run Run 3.5 All Tomorrow's Parties 3.4 Heroin 4 There She Goes Again 3.7 I'll Be Your Mirror 3.3 The Black Angel's Death Song 2.7 European Son 2 Score 3.481818182
The Velvet Underground & Nico: A Banana Peel on the Highway of Rock The Velvet Underground's 1967 debut album, with its iconic Andy Warhol banana plastered on the cover, is a landmark record. There's no denying its influence. It casts a long shadow over alternative rock, punk, and even noise music. But for all its historical weight, The Velvet Underground & Nico isn't always an easy listen. The album is a jarring mix of beauty and abrasion. "Sunday Morning" shimmers with a fragile hope, while "European Son" descends into a discordant howl. Lou Reed's vocals are as detached as a bystander on a subway, narrating tales of drugs, sex, and the fringes of society. These themes were shocking back then, and the music still retains a raw, edgy quality. Here's a mind-boggling fact: Some frogs have a truly unique way of seeing the world. Their eyes can actually retract into their skulls! This allows them to swallow large prey and even see underwater. Nature is wild, right? However, the album's charm can be an acquired taste. The lo-fi recording and unconventional song structures can feel like an acquired taste. Nico's Teutonic vocals, while adding a haunting counterpoint, can be a bit of a downer at times. Overall: The Velvet Underground & Nico is an important album, a true original. But its brilliance isn't always immediate. It's more like a banana peel on the highway of rock - unexpected, disruptive, and potentially messy. If you're looking for a smooth ride, this might not be it. But if you're open to a challenging and influential listen, The Velvet Underground & Nico rewards perseverance. 3 out of 5 stars.
Best song - Sunday Morning
3.5
Not my taste in music but couple of songs were ok
*it's not bad but sometimes it's boring and sometimes the discordant harmonies are too discordant and the lead singer's voice begins to grate. the guitars are good tho 4/7
Some solid songs on here but some questionable production. Some of the high pitched screeching noises hurt my ears. I realize it was made in '67 but I think they probably could have avoided the high pitched noises. I also think I have some Nico PTSD from the last Nico record. I find her music so incredibly boring. I think this is more a record to hand pick songs. Listening to the whole thing through really kind of hurt my ears.
good but showing its age a bit. Japan's "All Tomorrow's Parties" cover is still better though ....
Could not get into this at all. Stopped 3 songs in.
im kinda fw it Venus In Furs was really nice
Some stuff in here I like. I get how it was groundbreaking at the time, and divisive. Some cool stuff here. I'll probably check it out again someday. Not blown away, but not really my kind of music at the moment. Overall, definitely worth a listen.
One of those bands where it is interesting how they didn't catch on originally and became "Your favorite band's favorite band" in the 70's and 80's and caught on as a result of it. The stripped down sound of the album appeals to me, with an almost folkish quality to some of it due to the sing-speak style. As with anything a bit experimental there are highs and lows, but overall a lot to like. Highlights - Sunday Morning, I'm Waiting for the Man, Run Run Run
this is a classic album with iconic artwork. but is it a good album? the jury's still out on this. anyway, i wrote up some thoughts as i was listening to this at work: sunday morning - good opener, liked this waiting for the man - too long and too boring. more like “waiting for the song to end” am i right femme fatale - a bit boring now but i guess cool for the 60s? nice to have a bit of a darker side to the lyrics. feels like the evil twin of the carpenters or something venus in furs - kind of a creepy proto-residents vibe? i dig it run run run - meh. the jangly guitar with tremolo picking gets pretty annoying by like a minute in and just keeps going from there. lyrics are interesting but use the g-slur so not great nowadays all tomorrow’s parties - oops, was busy writing an email and didn’t really pay attention to this one. i don’t think i missed much. heroin - cool track. the off-beat drumming and repetitive-into-crazy strings actually pair well with the lyrical content and make this an interesting song. it’s a bit long but i guess that gives you more time to get into it there she goes again - kinda bob dylanesque i’ll be your mirror - if tiny tim had any chill the black angel’s death song - this is like the mountain goats but with insane, screechy violins european son - ????????? favorites: sunday morning, femme fatale, venus in furs
not a fan of lou reed
Oh look. It’s my favorite band’s favorite band. 3
Weird but I was into it
This self-aware, pop culture offering and quasi-performance art commentary maintains its ironic edge while the artistry of its individual songs only appears both more technically capable and yet simultaneously ersatz decades after its release. As a testament to its skillful use of a contemporary musical lingua franca, it frequently imitates the dominant, saccharine tones of its time to a degree of precision that generations then, now, and in the future could easily miss its subtle subtext as an incisive parody of popular songs of the day, characterized by trite lyrics, pollyannish and simplistic themes and observations, and conspicuously shallow and unsophisticated melodies. While many mainstream critics maintain (and I’m sure are correct in) the position that the album was groundbreaking in its frank discussion of controversial topics such as drug abuse and sexual deviancy, lines like, “I’m feelin’ good. Y’know, I’m gonna work it on out … I’m feelin’ good, I’m feelin’ so fine. Into tomorrow, but that’s just another time,” and, “Here she comes. You better watch your step. She’s going to break your heart in two. It’s true,” are unmistakably banal and derivative, and probably sounded just as vapid (or more so) in yesteryear. However, unlike yesteryear, when listening today, it’s almost impossible to interpret this seemingly intentional pabulum as anything other than parody, rather than actual music. A legendary work of iconoclastic art first, and an erstwhile album second, The Velvet Underground’s eponymous debut is too smart and cool to get five stars — that would be bourgeois. When listening in a decidedly “more modern” context, with the benefit (or detriment) of an age of irony now behind us, the listener cannot help but think that either the band or the audience is being taken for a ride. The only thing that seems certain to me is that Andy Warhol, creator of the iconic and enduring cover art, was in on the joke.
As someone who'd long known of The Velvet Underground without ever really knowing them, this was a treat. I was far more familiar with Lou Reed's "Walk on the Wild Side" and obviously have a ton still to hear. It's remarkable to think of their songs subject matter in the context of the 60's. The period is obviously well known for uprising counter-culture but my understanding of Velvet is that they took themes of depression, suicide, drug use, etc to the forefront of their music whereas previously, rock bands had to couch the content in massive layers of contextual obfuscation. I particularly like the songs sung by Maureen "Moe" Tucker, they remind me of some of the more B-sides work of Régine Chassagne within the confines of Arcade Fire. Overall a great listen, musically, historically, academically. But 3 stars and no less if I'm respecting my ear.
How high do you need to be for this to sound good?! There were definitely tracks I could groove to, but then European Son was just like a double middle finger that made me want throw it right back at them. “Sounding good is for squares!”
Pretty famous album that I have never actually heard. Not bad, some songs are really great. I would probably listen to this one again
Decent album but doesn't really blow you away at any point. Scrapes a 3.
I preferred the band with Lou Reed
I can see how this album was so monumental, and an inspiration for future generations of punk and rock music. With its riotous themes, guitars, and vocal style, this album is ahead of its time. I feel like nowadays the album is a little lacking compared to other rock albums, but nonetheless remarkable and innovative for the sixties. It is very interesting to hear the early evolutions of punk music.
This was fine. That is all.
When I saw this record, I was excited to finally listen to it. I used to work at a music store and this album was frequently talked about. I felt like I have listened to it vicariously through other people's comments on it. But I never did dive into it, myself. Not until now. I was surprised with the record. I wasn't expecting what I heard at all. Songs about Drugs abuse, S&M, prostitution and sexual deviance... Not something I'd expect from one of the most acclaimed art-rock records of all time. I'm not a fan of Lou Reed at all, so I was skeptical of this record. But he sounded pretty good. The music was pretty experimental and interesting. Over all, it was a decent record. Wouldn't make my top 100 that's for sure. But I didn't hate it. 🍌
This sounds way later than 60s, which is impressive. Stand-out: I'm Waiting For The Man
Expected I was going to like this more than I did. Perhaps listening to the self titled album first had set my expectations too high.
i don't really like rating albums so i'll just use this site as a guide for albums to listen. i understand the impact of this album, and how different it was at its time. i respect the band's ability to defy so many musical norms and to push the boundaries of what music is. there was experimental, cool stuff, as well as more mellow "normal" music. liked some songs, hated others - interesting listen for sure. liked first half of the album, but started to wilt later. (i'm rating this a 3 because I don't want to rate it)
Yeah yeah yeah. Take you're bonus stars for being heralded. This should be renamed to, "the art of the drone".
A very curious album because it's somehow both a product of its time, and ahead of its time.
I went to the Warhol museum in Pittsburgh in September. Highly recommended. Lots of VU nostalgia and artifacts. Not my thing but an important record
too out there. some of the songs didn’t vibe with me
Felt like the first-iteration of something that isn't fully conceptualized yet. Still persuasive enough for a full listen.
It's groovy? It's a "vibe". It made me turn it off halfway through. Too much of the same thing over and over. I suppose if I was stoned this would be awesome.
Good variety of songs each welcome in my playlist just not all together.
Instantly felt like a time and a place. Cohesive but I’m used to more dynamic listens. 3.5.
Heeeeeelt okey. Sista låten var bedrövlig.
Some good things, some tracks unlistenable,
Mild
C'était très cool. J'vais écouter d'autres albums.
It was ok, but not really my scene.
duplicate
Clearly influential, hard not to sound dated
Not really my thing.
It’s fine. There’s a couple good songs, but the album as a whole kinda drags on.
The song, Jesus, and a Drummer named Maureen, got us to a solid 3!
Mixing feels weird. Certain instruments are way louder than vocals. Mellow and hit or miss. Venus in Furs is a big miss
Okay
I like the unique style of Lou Reed’s voice. You can hear the influence of Dylan. They are a good band but it’s not something that I can listen to a lot of. Sad themes.
one of those records we'll probably have a lot of in this game, that I can understand how it is a Very Good And Important Album, but I gotta admit it doesn't do a whole lot for me as-is. Maybe I should start doing heroin
Le producteur aux portails a tenu toutes ses promesses, ramenant une nouvelle fois un attirail de portails des plus impressionnants au studio des Velvet Underground.
Somevsongs good guitars sounded bad
Interesting but not very moving
Have loved a couple of the songs for decades. Overall, though, the album just doesn't speak to me anymore. Radical AF when it was released, true, but some songs haven't traveled through time well.