Album Summary
Traffic is the second studio album by the English rock band of the same name, released in 1968 on Island Records in the United Kingdom as ILPS 9081T (stereo), and United Artists in the United States, as UAS 6676 (stereo). The album peaked at number 9 in the UK albums chart and at number 17 on the Billboard 200. It was the last album recorded by the group before their initial breakup. The album was somewhat of a departure from the psychedelia of Traffic's debut, featuring a more eclectic display of influences from blues to folk and jazz. It was voted number 312 in Colin Larkin's All Time Top 1000 Albums 3rd Edition.
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Reviews
Traffic dares to beg the question: "What's worse than 70's boomer rock?" It's 60's boomer rock. I could see any one of these tracks being used in a movie that somehow makes it enjoyable. This is old bar music through and through. Another case of "It's not terrible, but not good either" This album started off ok, but it just keeps getting worse further in. I could listen to this if it was playing on a speaker in a building, but probably wouldn't like to be stuck in a car playing it on a road trip This is a strong 2/5 I think I'm becoming more jaded as this goes on...
I have a very important announcement to make: Traffic is the band that Grateful Dead fans think the Grateful Dead is.
I've always liked Traffic quite a bit, but not quite as much as my friend Mike who was in a band with me. Mike played keyboards and tried to sing like Steve Winwood. His favorite song to play was Low Spark of High Heeled Boys. One day Mike met this girl and fell in love. I can't remember her name but she was pretty wild. Mike would have threesomes with her and another girl and tell us all about it when we would get together for jam sessions. One night, Mike's girl showed up and hung out with us during our jam session. When she left to go get us some beer, Mike lashed out at our drummer, claiming he was flirting with Mike's girl and was planning to sleep with her. It put a damper on the whole evening and ultimately broke up the band. Mike got engaged to this girl but the morning of the wedding he called me up to tell me the wedding was canceled because they had gotten into a big fight and broken up. I haven't really talked to Mike much since then, I hope he's doing okay. Anyway, I've always liked Traffic but hadn't really listened to this album much. I honestly thought the song "Feelin' Alright?" was by Buffalo Springfield or CSNY - had no idea it was Traffic. This was good, but I think the following two albums - John Barleycorn Must Die and The Low Spark of High Heeled Boys - are better. Still, I'm giving it 4 stars.
good old american rock1!! ai olikin englanti. heh.. VITTU PEDOFIILI HÄH?????????? miksi aina pitää olla.. little girl... ei koskaan ole söpöistävä lemmikkinimi aikuiselle naiselle... aina aktuaalinen little girl.... miksi... . I did enjoy "Vagabond Virgin" though; lil bro how. melkein hyvä yritys psykedeelisestä rokista, ei edes kuulostanut vitun hirveältä.. vitsi vaan. Uskomaton albumi.. raskas.... vitsi vaan.. hyi vitty pearly queen
Great, great album. I’m starting to love this band so much! Very good mix of classic rock with a dash of prog and folk. And Steve Winwood is crazy talented. 8,5 out of 10
10/10 all of Traffic’s albums are so creative and good, but done in such a fun, easy-listening kind of way
Had expected to see Mr Fantasy in this list butthen we got JB Must Die, and now their second album appears. All three albums are 5 stars, but Mr Fantasy impressed me the most and hope it is still included in the list.
Ah, UK rock. Surprisingly I liked this album, songs did not sound the same which was a huge plus. But still felt like something that you'd just see in the clearance section. Not sure why it's on here.
It was ok
Couldn't be more MOR if it had yellow lines painted down the middle of it.
It's called Traffic because every song is a jam. Just super tight playing and writing.
I have never heard about Traffic more than a few words, and I don't think I listened to more than 1 or 2 songs. Now I'm in love with this album. It started so "standard", sounding like any other rock band from the '60s/70s, but it increased and doubled the bet on a strange (and familiar at the same time) mix of blues, classic rock, and a bit of experimentalism that really catches me. I hope to see more Traffic on the list since I got "John Barleycorn Must Die" some months ago, and it was far from the work I see here at this album.
Uskomaton albumi.. raskas....
This was a very well produced album featuring mostly blues rock. There were tinges of jazz and folk influence as well giving the music a more sophisticated sound. The songs felt balanced, well layered, and had an almost Grateful Dead like feeling of spontaneity though Traffic are a much tighter band (at least in the studio). Overall, the album was very light and I enjoyed it quite a bit.
Good album
This album was seriously so fun! All of the high-energy, positive, vibes. Definitely adding to my record collection someday.
No. 282/1001 You Can All Join In 3/5 Pearly Queen 4/5 Don't Be Sad 3/5 Who Knows What Tomorrow May Bring 3/5 Feelin' Alright 4/5 Vagabond Virgin 3/5 40.000 4/5 Cryin' To Be Heard 3/5 No Time To Live 3/5 Means To An End 4/5 Average: 3,4 Really diverse album. All songs are pretty good. Felt like it had even more potential with better production.
It is a pleasure every time I listen to Traffic. I've owned a few of their records going back to the late 80's. I could go to the swap meet with $5 and come home with five albums. The collection grew considerably. Lying on the floor with headphones plugged in, looking at the cover, reading line notes and lyrics. I read a lot of great books back then too. A real bright spot in a low point. But anyway, this album is just exactly perfect. Musically these four guys were magic.
That was a great folk rock album with catchy tunes.
Solid album. It's more like a 4.5 for me, but I bet if I re-listened I would get even more out of it, so I'll round up.
This is really the sweet spot for me for the band Traffic. The folk and jazz leanings of their later albums are distractions from what they are really great at -- cooking versions of catchy songs. The Dave Mason songs really stand out on this record. they are much more tuneful and straightforward than the Winwood/Capaldi numbers, which can tend to provoke a "huh?" reaction in me. But, in fairness, this album isn't too psychedelic or folk or jazz or other muso-indulgent waffle. Everyone is playing really well. Winwood's singing is the standout, but the tracks where he and Mason trade leads are typically the standout for me. It didn't chart for Traffic at the time, but Feelin' Alright was recognized as an instant classic. if you look at the list of cover versions by A-list artists that were released within two years. I love the live version by the Jackson 5 on their "Going Back to Indiana" TV special in 1971. It's totally worth a look to see the Jacksons at the height of their powers, kickin' it out live (https://youtu.be/6EtxrIpyuQY?si=P4nePLoltq0c8_bZ&t=139) Back to Traffic, this is a great record, would buy.
And the award for the worst band name ever goes to… Traffic! I haven’t heard of them before, but why would you name a band after rage-inducing street congestion? Each to their own, so let’s find out if the music is good. Songs I already knew: none Favourites: Who Knows What Tomorrow May Bring, Vagabond Virgin This was really good! It reminded be a fair bit of a lot of southern rock bands like 38 Special, so I was surprised to see they’re from Birmingham. To my ears they sound very American, but that would be me being wrong! The music is enjoyable here. There were no songs at all that I didn’t enjoy, but there were only a few that stood out as fantastic. Overall, a good album. Give it a try.
Sidste album med dem var lidt bedre, men stadig godt
Rock n roll clásico. Me recuerda mucho a Creedence. Guitarras poderosas y un bajo que se vuelve loco (para bien) en muchos momentos. 7/10
This was a pretty standard 60s psychedelic/prog rock album and it had some good tracks (who knows what tomorrow, medicated goo). Don’t have much else to say but it’s hard to decide between a 3 and 4.
Traffic is a band that I'm aware of and could name one track from the band (not on this album), but I haven't listened to them much. I have seen others refer to Traffic as a band that they have enjoyed exploring, but I haven't been able to catch that spark to ignite my personal interest. I feel like my understanding of the band hasn't found its context in my personal listening experience or my understanding of where their music fits within pop culture. Overall, the album was okay. I listened to the extended version of the album and was fine with that. I think Joe Cocker has ruined "Feelin' Alright?" so that track is a drawback to the album. As long as I don't have to think about the lyrics to "Vagabond Virgin" I can round to 3 stars.
Traffic était déjà venu nous laisser un souvenir des plus périssables et remet le couvert avec ce projet déjà oublié.
Quel plaisir de voir que tout est rentré dans l'ordre, et que Robert nous propose de nouveaux albums insipides. C'est important de revenir aux bonnes vieilles habitudes !
Head tuned this one out, so I'm guessing it must be between a 2 and a 3.
So I’m a fan of Traffic, but have never worked my way through all of their albums – but the bulk of the catalog that I’ve heard, I have enjoyed… They seem to be one of those bands that have a few outstanding tracks per album, so their goodness is spread across the catalog… I get that this was their 2nd album, but the songs seem to be all over the place – and I was partial to the sound on the debut album “Mr. Fantasy”… Looks like it was the clash between Dave Mason’s more pop orientation, and Winwood & Capaldi’s more jazz and blues influence – with mason eventually leaving… Regardless, there are a couple of gems on here – even if it really doesn’t flow like most albums… Liked “Feeling Alright” obviously, but also enjoyed “Roamin’ Thro’ The Gloamin’”, “Withering Tree”, with the best track on the album IMO being “No Time To Live”… Guess I’m a “Mr. Fantasy” & “Low Spark” kinda guy… Solid 2 for sure…
this is the second album by rock band traffic, and also the last album release with a lot of the original members. it was up there with the top 10 uk music charts way back when. compared to their first album mr fantasy, they wanted to try something a little less surreal and psy with this one. a little more folky, kinda poppy. it's not really country but it's almost country-inspired when it comes to the sound. sounds like being in a farmhouse. a small town. i really like albums where you can just pick up and play it. i'm... well, i picked it up, and i'm actively picking up what's being put down. kick off your shoes, lean back a bit and just enjoy yourself when this plays... that's all i really have to say about it.
I really liked the album and the band oof
Classic band, classic album. So many great songs!
this is a good website
Wonderful musicians and special music
Really good album. Definitely one of Traffic's lesser-known albums. It's criminally underrated, though. Traffic has a distinct sound that branches out in this album and it's really cool how they incorporate other ethnic music in here. Vagabond Virgin is definitely the best song on here. It's very underrated and I think it's one of Traffic's best.
Never heared them before and this was a great discovery. Great infectious melodies, cool arrangements, it's wholesome, it varies and it rocks.
Funky, lovely
Loved it from start to finish.
I love Traffic all day every day
My parents first played me this many years ago. I love it more each time I hear it.
Half of this album (Mason) is brilliant and half is pretty good (Winwood). I'll round up.
Used to rock this back in high school…. in 2007.
FANTASTIC ALBUM! Brings me back to younger days : )
Top
Big fan of Traffic so 4.5 for me.
Very Nice Album - definitely worth a listen
Dreamy, earthy, and quietly trippy in that late-60s countryside-psychedelia way. Rating: 4.7/5 Short Review: This album feels loose and organic, like friends experimenting in a room rather than chasing hits. Folk, rock, and light psychedelia blend into something warm and reflective. It drifts, but in an intentional way. Favorite Track: Dear Mr. Fantasy. Soulful, wistful, and beautifully emotional.
oneonta
It starts slow but quickly accelerates with many nostalgic and well written songs. Great throwback album to listen to when in a 60's mood.
A sublime experience. I entered the ethersphere every time the Hammonds came in.
Super fun and fresh
Steve Winwood is probably one guy may be forgotten which is extremely unfortunate for anyone missing out on any work from him. Very well put together album with some quality knee slappers.
Another classic rocker. "Felling Alright?" is on here and that's oretty cool.
Top notch piano/organ and guitar playing in this album. A few timeless classics - Feelin Alright, Who Knows What Tomorrow May Bring, Medicated Goo. This was already a favorite album of mine and this isn’t the first time I’ve listened straight through. Big Winwood Guy and Traffic is my favorite Winwood project and this is my favorite Traffic album. Other guys in our group think it’s too out there but I love this shit.
Another top tier/favorite album for me…Steve Winwood and Dave Mason cooking; that’s really all you need to know. Great mix of soul, psychedelica, and 60s rock but doesn’t really sound dated. I love the guitar turnaround on “Am I What Was or Am I What I Am”, the groove on “Who Knows What Tomorrow May Bring?”, the breakdown on “Medicated Goo”, etc. So many great moments. Could pretty much listen to Steve Winwood sing anything.
“Mr Fantasy” was Traffic’s first album, and is a classic psychedelic pop/rock album that really belongs on this list. It’s totally unfair that people are entering eternity without hearing it, apparently due to some sort of Traffic quota. But this, their self-titled second album, is equally deserving. By just their second album, the band had expanded their sound — I hear rock, soul, blues, and maybe-even-jazz fusion here. It sounds like a certain strand of 70s rock, but full of life and heart and oh so good. Stevie Winwood made great music with several bands in this era. But it’s clear he’s not the only talent; the whole band contributes wonderfully. This is an excellent artifact from a great year in music, 1968. Enjoy!
I just merged into Traffic... and I don't mind being tied up for almost an hour of solid rock and roll. There are only a couple of tracks I recognized, and it didn't matter at all. This is a great album of classic rock and roll that is creative, fun, energetic and true. No sophomore slump for this near supergroup.
Loved this one all the way through. Multiple of the best new songs that I've heard in a while. Would write more but i gotta go and need to see this next album
Vandeweek had ik al Stef Winhout, waar ik nog nooit van had gehoord, solo en nu krijg ik hem dus met z'n ploeggenoten. En dan denk ik nog nooit van Traffic gehoord te hebben, maar die blijk ik dan al eens eerder te hebben gehad in deze lijst. Volgen jullie het nog? Verder kan ik hier niet teveel over zeuren. Ik vind dit gewoon lekkere muziek. Het is natuurlijk ontzettende ouwelullenmuziek, maar het is ook gewoon fijne rock met duidelijke blues invloeden, een goeie drummert, goed gitaarspel, een orgeltje en iets van een harmonica. Jimi Hendrix-achtige lickjes op de gitaar. Alles er op en er aan. Kwaliteitsmuziek. Een 4,5 afgerond naar 5 sterren. Lekkere muziek.
I hadn’t heard this before and am pumped to know about it!
Groovy
There is more than 1 music type. Some music consumes you and grabs your attention full force and fury. Some music is gentle and sweet and sleepy. Traffic is another type. You can hear and recognize it in the background. It stays and you feel the ambition and confidence. Comforting. 5 stars!
Me gusta
Stevie Winwood
Great 'dad rock' with a bit of funky vibes
Rock. Muy bueno para su tiempo, muy completo, apasionado.
I love Traffic
I actually loved this. I can’t believe, in all my years of guilty-pleasure yacht rock listening, I have never heard of these guys. Multiple songs will be making it into my rotation.
This was great. Each track felt epic in its own way, but it also connected nicely as an album.
Ended up really enjoying this album.
Feel like Traffic is a sixties act that has been quite unfairly forgotten so many decades after. I'm not a huge fan of Steve Winwood's solo career, but his first band had a pretty impressive run of albums during the early sixties / early seventies era, and this second LP is probably my favourite in that group of LPs. Of course, "Feelin' Alright" is a massive hit with an infectious chorus, and its inclusion right in the middle of the tracklist helps propel the whole thing until the end. But each and every other cut is worth the detour here. The songs are varied, lively, heartfelt, the arrangements are either fun or sophisticated, and it's just a pleasure for anyone who is interested in that particular era of rock music. 4.5/5 for the purposes of this list of essential albums 8.5/10 for more general purposes (5 + 4.5) Number of albums left to review: around a hundred, as I've gone over the 1000 line and this generator is including albums from all editions of the book Number of albums from the list I find relevant enough to be mandatory listens: 444 (including this one( Albums from the list I *might* include in mine later on: 267 Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 323
Pearly Queen is really good don't be sad was just ok who knows what tomorrow may bring is cool feelin' alright is a great cover Roamin Thro The Gloamin was pretty cool too Means to an end, good Overall I really enjoyed this album, I've never heard anything from Traffic before besides Mr Fantasy, which was not on this album. I think I'll be revisiting this for sure.
Man, take me back! This is so good! I'm Feelin' Alright!
Good album, long ago
Great, lovely album
My kind of music! Good rock album to do a road trip. I didn't know that Steve Winwood and Jim Capaldi came out of this band. No wonder that's so good! I knew Steve from his solo song Higher Love (on the soundtrack of GTA V) and Jim from a cover of a Brazilian song called "Anna Julia" (very popular here) with the participation of George Harrisson. It was a good surprise and i'll leave 5 stars.
Traffic deserves to sit in the pantheon of British rock with The Who and the Beatles.
Stunning album. Love it
Big Album !
just a beautiful record ........
Traffic sound like one of those groups who split up then had seperate bouts of outrageous success. Not the case but this is a very tight album. Bloke got some serious soul in his voice. Trying to place this somewhere in the Country Music time line (I finished the Ken Burns doco btw the way - more on that later) but all I got to was r&b blues country psych rock
Sounds great
This just fucking slaps. It's like Kansas, but turned down to like and 8, rather than an 11. I was really worried the album would fall flat a bit as it went on, but it constantly surprised me and some of the back half was even better (not all of it). This is saved, added to playlists, and I can't wait to listen to it again.
cool
Well, Traffic rock. Loved it.
4.6/5
Rootsy and bluesy compared to the debut. Love the piano and winds playing.
Splendid stuff that.
Amazing blues rock album with the right amount of folk mixed in. Great range of instruments including flutes and organ add a unique sound that I think is quite ahead of it’s time. 9/10 but rounds up.
early pysch rock with some super solid jams.
For some reason never checked out this band, but this album sounded great. Good mix of rock, funk, and folk, and even some progressive rock that reminded me of early Genesis (especially on No Time to Live).
Not sure why this particular Traffic album was chosen - hopefully some of the others will make an appearance later on. Very 1960's but hints of what's to come.
I really enjoyed this one. I’ve never heard anything by traffic before, so this was a great introduction
There's a book to be written about the, in my words, "great encheesification" of acts in the 1980s. Chicago/Peter Cetera, Journey, Aerosmith, Jefferson Airplane/Jefferson Starship/Starship, and Steve Winwood formerly of Traffic all sought pop stardom while abandoning thetype of music that made them great to begin with. Was it the record labels pushing great musicians to make bland music that would not age well? Was it the influence of MTV? To be fair, Steve Winwood's 1980s output isn't terrible, he had some good songs that, with their 1980s production values, felt like a huge step down. Also, comparing Winwood's Traffic output to his 1980's output is a bit unfair. Traffic was a great band with interesting music.
Mollto interessante. Per niente scontato. Determinante la presenza del flauto, voce meravigliosa.
You could hear the band evolving from the beginning, and even inside this album. Great start to a long career.
There’s always exceptions to hard and fast rules, and as someone who kinda hates 60s psychedelia, Traffic seems to be that exception for me. Idk why, but I just like this band! The songs are strong, fun, well developed. The production is really crisp. These guys always fill up the bargain bins at record stores, but they’re genuinely good!!!
Waaaait this is really good. It started horribly then by no time to live is was loving it
4.5