Traffic

Enjoyable.

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

3/5

Enjoyed it

A classic rock classic! Traffic has a unique sound and blends a lot of genres. Steve Winwood doesn't get the praise he deserves. The hits are great, the b-sides are mostly also good. Overall- 3.5/5

8/10

Likte best Shanghai Noodle Factory

Это странный альбом. Забавно что жанровый тег в википедии вам лжёт, готовя к исключительно фолковому звучанию (а ето ложь). А вот на сайте уже все правильно. Это очень интересная смесь блюза, фолка, джаза, прога и психоделики. Первый трек уже было заставил закатить глаза, готовясь к очередной "фолковой-кантри-скучнине", НО НЕТ. Тем дальше - тем лучше. Ваще, мне не сколько даже этот альбом понравился, сколько я поставил на карандашик Траффик, ибо посмотрев их дискографию, они дальше и с прогом и с джаз-фьюженом более основательно игрались, и вот это вот было бы уже интересно послухать.

I only vaguely knew about Traffic and after listening to this I'm surprised they don't get mentioned more. This album was a super eclectic mix of styles and influences but shows off the band's musical and songwriting talent the whole time. There's obviously a bit of a psychedelic late 60's influence here but also some tracks that lean heavy, some with a serious soul vibe and a few that were more poppy. It feels like these guys were still trying to find their sound but created some fun good time music.

I’m kind of surprised I’ve never listened to Traffic before because I would have absolutely loved this when I was a teenager when all I listened to was psychedelic and/or bluesy classic rock. It doesn’t quite do the same thing for me now, but I still really enjoyed this album.

Another nostalgic band for me and also a work that absolutely could not exist without the work of black artists that came before. This is a great representation of what this flavor of rock/country/blues fusion had to offer at the time but it does bring that fact in very sharp relief. The vocals are really nice and the lyrics are mostly very thoughtful. Overall an album that flows well and scratches the 60s itch really effectively but I wouldn’t blame other people for lacking patience with it. My reviews for this type of band are always going to be especially biased.

The Grateful Dead wish they could jam like this, with a jazz flair to blues rock. Granted, there's a couple songs here that could go in the wood chipper, but this band is a total vibe, and did the blues-jazz fusion better than anyone. Good stuff.

Traffic

I didn't like the first track, but enjoyed the rest. It was cleaner and less psychedelic than I expected. It's no surprise to hear that they split up straight afterwards, though, as Mason and Winwood's songs sound like different bands

70's rock not yet in the 70s. great album and writing. Influences from rock/pop/jazz/psychedelic. Really well done. 4.

Way better than other stuff I've listened to by them

I know this band. I like their stuff, not sure if I have quite listened to an album

Saved? ✅ Would listen again? ✅ Would recommend to anyone? ✅ Would buy on Vinyl? ✅

Good if you like this kind of thing, and I clearly do - it was very obviously an influence on Wild Wood by Paul Weller, and that's getting at least four stars when it comes up too.

+1 Meets notability guidelines.

3.5 but I'll go 4 for some sporadic gems of tracks and licks, grooves, melodies, especially in the voc&bass or drum kit.

Traffic is a cool band, I however haven't listened to this record as much as John Barleycorn Must Die (also on the list) and Low Spark of High Heeled Boys (NOT on the list, what the fuck?). It's a solid record (aside from cringe ass Vagabond Virgin) by a group of great musicians. Their other aforementioned records are definitely better.

Knowing nothing about this album going in, I gotta say -- what a fun collection of eclectic grooves. Great variation here, with plenty to hold my interest. I'll certainly revisit this.

Previously rated: #941 - John Barleycorn Must Die (4/5) ****************************************** Album #1,073 Listened to just the original 10 track album. Winwood's songs are for the most part better than the other guy's, especially in the vocal department, but Feelin' Alright might be the best track on the album. Other standouts: Pearly Queen and Who Knows What Tomorrow May Bring. Some of the mixing didn't seem too good, with drums or vocals too far back in the mix. I'd have to listen to both albums again to know which was better.

First time I've heard this and when your previous exposure to Stevie Winwood is his 1980's comeback pop hits, this album vastly exceeds your expectations.

Hard to believe Stevie Windwood was an early teen and had such a soulful voice.

The West Midlands had it nailed in the late 60s, so much music pouring out

A loud, bombastic party album typical of the era. They remind me very much of ZZ Top and the Doors. This album is either the best or the worst album to play for a depressed person, and I can't tell which. Either way it's straight forward but enjoyable. Ithe first few songs elicit joy in a pure form. Oh, I have heard Feelin' Alright many times before. I feel like I've gone 'round the mulberry bush and through the Shanghai noodle factory.

Knew a few songs, most were new though. Gives early zeppelin vibes, with some Jethro tull thrown in. Good instrumental jams, worth a relisten

Traffic’s self-titled record feels like a perfectly preserved late-60s time capsule. It’s pastoral without being precious, exploratory without completely drifting off the map. The blend of rock, folk, light psychedelia, and jazz touches gives it a richness that rewards attentive listening. Steve Winwood’s Hammond work is a real highlight, woven into the songs rather than dominating them. It’s instructive if you’re paying attention to how keys can sit inside a rock arrangement without overwhelming it. The textures, flute accents, and shifting moods capture the era beautifully. The first half is especially strong, with a sense of curiosity and freshness that pulls you in. The second half loses a bit of momentum and focus, and while nothing is outright weak, it doesn’t quite sustain the same spark. It may not hit the emotional resonance needed for a five, but it’s a very cool record that captures its moment with style and musicianship. A solid four.

Ok, there were some good songs on this!

Frekar næs miðað við djammband frá 1968, góð grúv, engir stefnulausir instrúmental kaflar, söngvarar sem skiptast á. Ég keyri þetta í tæpan fjarka.

Pretty enjoyable

Almost funky

that was a lovely listen. so much talent in one group, so much great work in such little time

Never heard these guys before…some groovy-ass hippy shit!

4.5? Considered a 5. I liked the slight psychedelic + rock vibe, mostly fun songs.

Probably more like 3.75, but I quite liked it. It’s rock, feels like something mom would listen to. A couple bops, a couple slightly odd ones but none that are too super weird

It's a fuckin' TRAFFIC JAM!!!!

This project is ferreting out so many little musical blind spots. Such as the entire Steve Winwood oeuvre.i gotta say, this album wormed its way in through my earholes and burrowed straight to my heart. Perhaps a bit on the long side, but these are some beautiful little melodies. Hard to say what direction this will grow in my esteem over time, but I’ll start it off at a very solid 4.

8 I like it!!! Listen again sometime I think!!

"Traffic" is the second studio album by English rock band Traffic. Wiki lists folk rock as the sole musical genre but also describes their music as a departure from the psychedelia of their debut album, displaying eclectic influences from blues to folk to jazz. The album was produced by Jimmy Miller. Bandmembers included Dave Mason (vocals, guitars, bass, harmonica, organ), Steve Winwood (vocals, organ, piano, guitars, piano), Jim Capaldi (drums, vocals, percussion) and Chris Wood (saxophones, flute, vocals, sleigh bells, Coke tin). The album reached #9 in the UK and #17 US Billboard Top LP's Chart and, critically, was well received. The album opens with "You Can All Join In." Acoustic guitar strumming and tenor sax fills. Mason on lead vocals. Laid back with a Grateful Dead vibe. Liberation, self-creation and inclusiveness. Winwood takes over lead vocals on "Pearly Queen." This song is harder with a bluesy guitar and driving rhythm. The song turns psychedelic with a flute. Psychedelic lyrics too as the narrator is pointed to a destiny by mystical queens and kings. The only single was "Feelin' Alright?" Mason with shaky vocals in a personal song about unrequited love and a recent break up. Piano, various percussion and a tenor sax solo. Mason said he tried to make his acoustic guitars sound like a sitar. The piano, a swirling organ and a soprano sax give "No Time to Live" a jazzy feel. Winwood with delicate and heartfelt vocals on the fleeting nature of life. The loudness builds with a dramatic ending. The album closes with the bluesy-country rock in "Means to an End." Layered vocals by Winwood. A bouncy piano and a country-tinged guitar. The one thing that stands out about this album is the variety: From jam band to bluesy pyschedelia to folksy rock to psychedelic rock to jazz to country blues. I think that probably stems from the three chief writers of Winwood, Mason and Capaldi. That also probably explains the departure of Dave Mason not too long after this album. That's unfortunate since the variety of styles is one of the strengths of this really good album. The lyrics range from pyschedelic tales to more personal songs. Overall., there's a lot here to like from the styles to the overall talent of musicianship and the strength of songs. A solid recommendation.

I had not heard of the band Traffic before. A wonderful album with great diversity across its 10 tracks. A mix of rock, folk, pop and jazz jamming. I’ll have to check out the bands other work because this was great.

This was overall a good album. I liked the folk and jazz elements, as well as the psychedelic feel. The only thing was the lack of hooks on some of the songs.

1/1001 I really enjoyed some tracks (Shangai Noodle Factory, Who Knows What Tomorrow May Bring, Pearly Queen, Whatever the Hell They Were About With 40.000 Headman) but hated the opener so much I was getting ready to rate it 2/5. It's a 4, but I like my 60s groovier and trippier.

Funky classic ambient rock, with a few radio jams for good measure

It took a little to get going, but it got quite fun with a bluesy edge. I didn't like Cryin' To Be Heard very much, but I liked the harpiscord on it.

You couldn't draw a more "1968 British rock" album cover if you tried. The four mismatched shirts and pants, the long not-quite-shaggy hair, the fuzzy resolution and glowy, post-psychedelia lighting. It's all there. A full, warm, folky sound from the opener, You Can All Join In. It suffers from a stereo mix (at least for me; my left ear is pretty debilitated). At least the scaffold of the song is in the right ear. It's darn catchy and Traffic's clearly having a ton of fun. Or putting on a convincing act, what with all the chuckles and "yeahs" and slightly suspect moans and "ka-cha-ka"s. The folky, almost American country sound continues with Pearly Queen, where the vocalist straight up plays an unconvincing cowboy. (I guess that explains the funny hat.) The instrumental panning is a little bonkers yet at the same time completely apropos for 1968. Almost Hendrix-esque. Even the guitar playing is pretty similar (but less good, obviously). Solid bass playing, too. There's a double bass somewhere in the mix, and a double bass is always a win. Another new vocalist in Don't Be Sad. This guy sounds like Christine McVie, but he probably isn't Christine McVie. It's joyful – maybe a little too much so – and the vocal harmonisation is laid on thick. Why isn't popular music this carefree nowadays? Who Knows What Tomorrow May Bring is notable for its excellent guitar and bass lines, using just a couple of chords but bringing a ton of flavour. Also, the organ and vocals exude soul here. Feelin' Alright? is another two-chord number, but dang it, it's so feel-good. Like soul food for the temporal cortex. Vagabond Virgin generally lacks melodic hooks, but it has a dense, complex arrangement characterised by its flutes and tapped percussion. Good acoustic guitar playing. I don't know what genre this is supposed to be, but it's pretty good. Around this point in the album the tracks get less interesting simply because they sound like previous tracks. (Roamin' Thro' The Gloam' With) 40.000 Headman gets the award for clunkiest title of any 60s song (runner-up: that one Pink Floyd track from Ummagumma, you know the one). It also has similar standout instruments to Vagabond Virgin (mainly the percussion and acoustic guitar). It's still passable though. Cryin' To Be Heard has messy, unremarkable verses, but choruses that put most of the rest of the album to shame. Pure emotion in those vocal harmonies. You know what all of these tracks lack so far? Any element of sadness, contemplation, even so much as a ballad. I sometimes have the same problem with CCR, though interestingly I don't have as much of an issue when music is consistently negative or reflective. (Strange.) No Time To Love resolves this problem somewhat, but as ballads go, it's not the strongest. A nice piano part and some interesting chords are what carry the track. It should also be noted that many songs on the record lack harmonic variation, and that's a pretty big minus for an album competing with late-career Beatles, the Zombies, Hendrix, Zappa, and others. A 4, but a very strong 4. 4/5 Key tracks: You Can All Join In, Who Knows What Tomorrow May Bring, Feelin' Alright

Not quite up to John Barlycorn or Low Spark but still an excellent album. Close but not quite a 5. 4.5 if possible.

Fun and inventive classic rock. Unlike Bad Company this feels worthy of inclusion even if its not the greatest thing I've ever heard.

Don't remember much about the other Traffic album my group has gotten, but I dug this one regardless. 4.5 bumped down to 4.

I’m right at a 4. It’s been about 4 months since we got “John Barleycorn Must Die”, & that’s an album mostly written by Steve Winwood. A little indulgent perhaps, since it was sort of conceived as a solo record that got converted into a Traffic reunion out of a desire for a good backing band. This album is meant to represent more of the “real” Traffic, as this album includes their original guitarist / songwriter, Dave Mason. I don’t mind Dave Mason at all; his voice isn’t as technically sound as Steve Winwood’s, but it has a nice little shaky rasp that keeps his more folksy tracks grounded as a good contrast to the more bombastic stylings of Steve Winwood, and they both harmonize together well. The only real miss on the album, at least from a writing standpoint, is “Vagabond Virgin”, which is a Dave Mason-led track. I tried really hard to parse these lyrics as something *other* than weirdly creepy, and I just can’t really do it. “It’s just a game, love, you can learn how to play” & “You just wanted to scream out my name” as it relates to love & a 13-year-old who’s clearly being exploited for money & cash? I’m taking a stab and assuming it’s someone forced into call girl service against her own real desires / will, but why would you even write a song that touches on anything remotely pedophilic in nature without a clear cut condemnation? It’s not that compelling, since the “story” is shallow & doesn’t say anything of note. It sounds nice, with a really calm instrumental & some wood block percussion that underlines some good guitar work, but lyrically, it’s fucking suspect at best & awful at worst. Other than that miss (which is most of the reason I’m at a 4), there’s a few other little things that just made this feel less satisfying than it could’ve been; “You Can All Join In” feels a little bit TOO Beatles-y as an opener, in a way that feels… not really ‘cheap’, but too noticeably derivative. “Feelin’ Alright?” does that Beatles-y style better, and it doesn’t feel as derivative. “Don’t Be Sad” feels a little repetitive with the outro (and overall, repetition / looping lyrics is an issue throughout the whole thing). I think the soft/loud back & forth of “Cryin’ To Be Heard” is really nice, especially from an instrumental standpoint, but I can’t help but wonder if Steve Winwood would’ve gotten more of an emotional pull from the (pretty damn good) lyricism, since Dave Mason’s voice didn’t quite hit that mark for me. I still enjoyed it though – not as dazzling as “John Barleycorn Must Die”, but that doesn’t mean it’s devoid of energy. I think Dave Mason & Steve Winwood’s approaches to music are fair, and their tracks (save for Vagabond Virgin) do work well & flow pretty cohesively here, mostly due to an instrumental style that knows how to give both their space. Seriously, really good instrumentals across the board here. I *prefer* Steve Winwood’s style, but I can’t deny that “Feelin’ Alright?” is probably the best track here. There’s one single miss (although it’s a REALLY bad miss), & along with a pile of small, but notable little things that don’t align with my tastes, has me at a 4. It’s still a good 4, and maybe if “Vagabond Virgin” wasn’t here, I might be a 4.5 worth contemplating over, but for now, just a solid, recommended 4. The floor is a 3.

This is a great rock record with no misses. Strong songwriting paired with good production. 8/10

"Who knows what tomorrow will" bring ist ja voll der Banger :-D Generell n sehr cooles Album mit tollem 70er Sound

“Pearly Queen” and “40,000 Headmen” are probably my two favorite Traffic songs, such a unique blend of styles in both. Like almost every Traffic album, though, there are a few tracks that fall short. They’re one of those bands that still boggles my mind with the sheer diversity in the quality of their songs. It just not quite a 5 star album.

I enjoyed this one a lot. It's standard 60s pop/rock, but I like 60s pop/rock

cool

Chill

Doesn't stand out too much, but enough none touches to be better than average 60s rock.

This is a superb band which made unique and very well crafted music in the late 1960s. Stevie Winwood was still a teen when he made this album which is crazy. His voice was so mature for his age. Great album, 4.5 stars.

4/5 for this bit of nostalgia.

Favorite Track: Feelin Alright

Fun late sixties rock. Never heard of them but it was still pretty enjoyable. They hit all the right notes but maybe blend in a little too well with their contemporaries. Its one of those albums thats so familiar I'm certain I heard growing up but cant single out a particular song or anything. Pretty good for the most part.

Your uncles favorite rock album by a band “no one’s ever heard of”. A lot of this was enjoyable but this list is overloaded with dad rock from the 60s and 70s

mostly 70s folk rock stuff but with some amazing tracks in there, cryin to be heard and no time to live foreshadow talk talk's post rock stuff

You’re fucking with me right??? Lmao

A pretty cool record. I haven’t heard it before but was pleasantly surprised.

Blues Rock inspirado no folk, Traffic é um bom album, para ouvir tomando uma cerveja gelada,

This must have been quite the bucket of everything back when it came out. It's really fun to listen to.

Good album.

Just the kind of 60's rock I like with a lot of folks and blues. I really love about half the songs. 4/5

7/10… Blues rock / 60s / *1968

hell yeah brother

Nice

A little dated, but still great

It’s good and all but not as good as their other albums.

First quarter I was like "yeah this is decent but then they really brought it home for the middle section.

Felt like a classic 70s banger, really liked it

4, has some bowie like vibes

4/5

Interesting mix of British Blues and British folk whimsy with some real funky moments. I can’t say it all works but it is interesting and pretty solid. You can definitely hear Cream influences or they may have inspired Cream as well. The whole scene was very incestuous so who knows for sure. You definitely hear how Blind Faith came to be. 4/5

I dig Steve Winwood's voice, and the record is remarkably clear, probably a testament to Jimmy Miller as one of rock's great producers.

Yeah i liked this. It feels a bit samey at times, i mean the 60s in general really. Great voice, some great riffs. Would’ve been a 3 but that last track blew me away. 4.0/5.0 Best Song: Shanghai Noodle Factory

In spite of the name, this is the 2nd album by Traffic. They got some of their stoner goofiness out in their first, "Mr. Fantasy", but some psychedelic weirdness persists. In my opinion, Traffic delivered peak psychedelic rock on vinyl in , better than The Beatles, The Stones, or The Dead in 1968 (live performances notwithstanding). My favorite track on this album is "Who Knows What Tomorrow Will Bring," which is less psych and more Spencer Davis Group blue-eyed soul. I think Side 2 drags a little, but I still putting this record on regularly.

A nice listen. A bit like light Cream. I was feelin Feelin Alright and Medicated Goo. And some spicy guitar parts on songs like Pearly Queen had me spinning it back.

Some really great tracks on this

Good rock but felt a little too hippie rock at times, 3.5 stars rounded up to a 4

First I've heard of the group even though I've definitely seen the "The Low Spark of High Heeled Boys" album while crate digging. It caught me completely off guard. Loved this and I'm shocked I haven't heard more about this band. I'm definitely gonna be coming back to many of the songs on this album. I think it has some points that are for sure higher than others. I think this should've been only 8 or 9 songs. Not because I was tired of it by the time it was over, but some of the songs held it down a little I think. At around song 9 I was ready to give the album 5 stars, but there were a few songs later that didn't hook me in the same way the entire first half did. Loved the soulfulness throughout. The instrument choices and parts are consistently awesome and never leave me wanting more or less. Excited to hear more of them

Pretty good, has that 70s sound but well written. Can come back to it 4.3

I enjoyed this album quite a bit, especially the first half. I haven't heard much Grateful Dead-esque soft rock before but it was so easy to listen to, not in a smarmy Everly Brothers sort of way either. The vocal embellishments on the opening track were surprisingly awesome. As you might expect from a band called Traffic, it was my jam!

I quite like this style of music - which is becoming blatantly obvious as go through the journey.

I think the only song I’d heard by them before was ‘Feelin’ Alright?’ Which has a great vibe to it. I really enjoyed this self titled album from Traffic with the 60s psychedelic and folk rock influences. I could definitely see myself listening to this album again in the future!

you know what hell yeah

Hadn't listened to this one. Winwood is very talented. Nice record

I was very surprised by this album. I thought it was going to be just another generic 60s rocker and it was so much better. Great jams, sick organ, interesting lyrics.

Great band, good record

Yeah, this was excellent stuff in the main. It's probably a little bit situational - I was listening in a nice chair on the first morning of a holiday, looking out over the Welsh hills at the drizzle, so was already in an excellent mental space. This was a good accompaniment, it's quite groovy, with super guitar work and admirable vocals from Winwood. It's not the kind of thing that will stay with you for a hugely long time, but it is, nevertheless, a lovely record to listen to.

I liked this album though it is pretty tonally all over the place. I think it gets stronger as it goes and the only song I even kind of recognized was Feelin' Alright. The first peak for me was No Time to Live, and I also like Shanghai Noodle Factory a lot, some great prog jamming tucked at the end there. Good album.

Lovely.

It’s ok.

Another album that I would have left out to make space for something else. I love Traffic, and this is a great album, but John Barleycorn Must Die or The Low Spark of High-Heeled Boys are a better representation. If a band’s sound only changes in tiny increments, one album is all you need to experience what they have to share. No complaint about the album at all - tight and loose at turns - you can feel the palpable joy of making good music together.

Really good almost all of the way thru. Better than expected

Love this chill late 60’s sound.

213/1089 - I'm feelin' alright about this one!

Nice rock album. Interesting theme for songs seemed like there was a deep meaning. Besides that not very unique.

Good album. It was nice to listen to, with generally a major vibe to it. Some songs stood out which i was happy about.

Struggling with this one. I like Traffic alright, and I enjoy Steve Winwood a lot solo, but this was very hit or miss. "No Time To Live" and "Shanghai Noodle Factory" were amazing songs that left a big impact, and I put them on repeat immediately after. But the rest was very... mid (as the youth say). And what the fuck was "Vagabond Virgin?" I realize I'm listening to this with a 2025 perspective, but singing a song like that about a 13 year old? So gross. Actually makes me want to rate it lower because of that song. This is really a 3.5 for me, but I'm rounding up only because of "No Time To Live" and "Shanghai Noodle Factory," which to me were brilliant songs. I wish there had been more like that.

Nice, bluesy

The good songs are REALLY good. The rest are just ok.

I liked it! No song necessarily stood out on my first listen, but I could tell that there was some interesting production that I liked and would like to hear more of. If be especially interested to compare it to contemporary Beatles albums to compare

Holy shit! Who was in charge of telling me about this album, because they messed up! Truly resonated with me. Just clean songwriting, production, and instrumentation. A delight. Will need to dig into their other work.

Decent 60's rock. Nothing that really grabbed me, but pleasant all the same.

honestly enjoyed this much more than i thought some great classic rock with other things mixed in

Within the ranges of "not at all bad" and "very good - but not amazing"and the ranges of "folk rock" and "early progressive rock", this album is wildly inconsistent. It's not so much a blend of different styles, as that it sounds like two different bands, depending on who wrote the track. An enjoyable, albeit somewhat weird album. Not convinced that it really belongs on this list, but well.

Джо Кокер сделал хороший кавер

I wasn't really familiar with Traffic before the 1001 and this is the second of their albums I've now listened to and really enjoyed. I feel they maybe deserved a bit more success but the late 60s were so packed with good classic rock, clearly some things just got lost in the noise. There are a number of songs I liked enough to add to my playlist and as an album it just continued to deliver satisfying hooks and a decent quantity of swagger.

Fun and funky, sounded a little basic but easy to see how it made the list, feels like a grandfather of an album

I have a much more recent Traffic album, but nothing from their earlier catalog, so I was interested to explore this record. The main thing that stood out to me was Steve Winwood's amazing voice. Dave Mason is a decent singer too, and a pretty good writer, but his voice pales in comparison to Winwood's, though most do if we are being honest. Still, having both of them on this album makes for an interesting contrast. Beyond this, throughout this album, I enjoyed the lead guitar work and the keyboards. And then there's that flute! Ok, seriously, you don’t often hear flute on a lot of songs (unless you are a Jethro Tull fan), so that was unique. A few songs which were highlights: I loved the way guitar bounced back and forth in Pearly Queen, great listen with headphones on. Who Knows What Tomorrow May Bring almost had a bit of a Motown feel to it, though this really soars because of Winwood's distinctive voice. Feelin' Alright? is a great song. No surprise it is one of their most recongizable, even if it was really made popular via the objectively better Joe Cocker version (speaking of distinctive voices). I thought 40.000 Headman was a great, great song, again carried by Winwood. Medicated Goo gives me an Almann Brothers kind of vibe. Very cool tune. Not everything on this album is great - You Can All Join In is a strange opener - but there's a lot to like. This is an excellent album.

Haven’t listened to this in 30 years. I dig it way more as a 43 year old than as a 13 year old.

Good tunes, good sounds, but some of it leans into jazz a bit much for me.

3.5 - Good

Dear Mr. Fantasy is a song that grabbed me when I heard it in a commercial like 20 years ago as a teenager. That song isn’t featured here, but it gave me an interest in Traffic from an early age. This is a very solid offering from Winwood and team. Its variety is probably its biggest strength, and arguably weakness. It’s not the most cohesive album ever, but it’s a fantastic collection of well performed songs.

I guess I really like Traffic. Not traffic, Traffic

Quelques temps morts mais une sacré découverte sinon.

Classic

Your dad was on drugs, bro. Liked it! Will for sure pick up a copy if I see one.

Traffic is a pleasant surprise. Easy on the ear and I actually knew one of their songs: Feelin' Alright?

333/1001 🌕🌕🌕🌗🌑

Was really diggin' the album and then CRYIN' TO BE HEARD really took it up a notch. Strangely enough, I hadn't listened to the entire album, but absolutely adore 'John Barleycorn Must Die.' Another startlingly groovy song, AM WHAT WAS OR AM I WHAT I AM. Super freaking catchy!!

Absolute chill vibes great campfire music. Was working with this in the background

Partially listened before Fav tracks: Roamin'..., Am I What Was..., Shanghai Noodle Factory

Sounds like all the other American ‘Nam music of the time. And that’s a good thing.

Ég skammast mín næstum því yfir að elska svona tónlist en ekki þekkja bandið. Þetta er mjög góð plata og alveg pottþétt eitthvað sem ég mun setja aftur í spilun. Mér finnst ég hafa misst af svo miklu um ævina.

begon zeer goed... daarna puddinggewijs wat in elkaar gezakt... toch goed voor 4 sterren

This was a decent album. I can tell they were starting to head in a more prog rock direction. It’s still psychedelic, but there’s also a good mix of jazz, blues, and folk rock. Like always, the organ was one of my favorite parts.

4/5

It's too bad that the other Traffic album on this list was one of the early albums that I got, while this one is among the last. I feel like I like this album better than the John Barleycorn album, but it would be better if I could compare them more directly in my head. Regardless, this album is cool overall. It feels like part of that transition from the 60s to the 70s in rock and roll. This album also does a lot to showcase Steve Winwood's songwriting ability 4/5

Decent album. I have a couple of their songs already liked on Spotify, but not from this album. I expected a little more because of them songs. I’d give a 3.5 if I could so I’ll err high.

A nice discovery and the album improved with each track.

I was pleasantly surprised with how much I enjoyed this record from a band I am ignorant of. It is possible that I feel this way because of how dang much the faces in that photo are flirting with me.

Enjoyable listen if not a bit long.

Never heard this album or band before. Pretty good. Vagabond virgin is kinda questionable politically

OK, first one put me to sleep, not the best opener. But Pearly Queen kinda slaps with jamming instrumental sections grounded by a simple refrain and don't get me started on the Hammond organ. I kinda dig this energy of pop and unusual sounds. Album progresses very nicely, maybe my fav moment right at the middle with No time to live, some great piano and organ work. I would see myself listening to this album again.

👍🏼

I really enjoyed this! Some really good classic stuff. Well written and fun. Would listen again

Early Steve Winwood and you can already hear that he is a production nerd. This sounds incredibly clean for early 70s rock. It is also apparent that he loves jazz which makes for an interesting rock album. The result is a little bit cold, but overall this is interesting and inoffensive.

I went into Traffic not knowing a single thing about the band, but this one really caught me off guard — in a good way. It’s a solid psychedelic rock album from start to finish. Trippy melodies, some jazzy touches, and that late '60s vibe that never gets old. Nothing felt too overdone, and even the weirder moments worked within the overall sound. Definitely one of those albums that makes you wonder why the band isn’t mentioned more in classic rock convos. Favorite track: Pearly Queen

I really enjoyed this album. It was a feelgood collection of chill songs that felt timeless despite the warm analog softness of the recording. Also never knew Steve Winwood started off here, very interesting.

Groovy 60s Brit rock band. Before listening to this album, only knew their song, “Dear Mr. Fantasy.” Recognized “Feelin’ Alright?” And really enjoyed “Don’t Be Sad”

I find it incredible that this album came out in 1968. Traffic seemed to be a good few years ahead of the 70s rock scene. Already they were taking psychedelic rock and blending it with complex structures, jazz, and a diverse range of instruments. What's impressive is how accessible it all is. How does an album with so many layers manage to include such a good single as "Feeling Alright?" There are hints of Steve Winwood's synth-layered jazz that would come later as well. I've been pleasantly surprised by how much I've come to enjoy Traffic, though I liked "John Barleycorn Must Die" a bit more.

A very pleasant sound universe.

Traffic is a great band and this is one of their best albums. Perfect balance between their psychedelic rock leanings with the interplay of guitars and reeds and drums around suitably ethereal lyrics and their folk rock compositions which are catchy and fun, Feeling Alright being the best known of the latter. A consistently satisfying listen. 4.5 stars

This is the better album. There’s a certain older English gentleman who reveres traffic and for the relatively short time they were together they did well. John barkeycorn must die is good but not essential. This could go on the list. 3.5

A likeable album. My interest waned towards the second half, but when I was paying attention it seemed top quality yet good fun. Nice flute and organ going on but no real standout tracks.

7/10

I liked it. Is it something I will listen to over and over again, no. Liked the different instrumentation, flute, organ, saxophone, nice variety. Liked the different vocals. Could've been a little shorter but otherwise quite liked this album.

I would say this is a low 4. First time I've listened to a lot of these songs with Shanghai Noodle Factory and Light Up Or Leave Me Alone being my faves.

A good piece of 60s rock. Didn't blow me away but I enjoyed it well enough.

Muet portent more

I didn’t know what to expect with this one, but I really enjoyed it!

an interesting work, mostly as a jumping off point for artists who had greater success (or influence) outside of the confines of the band

The first side is fantastic and has some catchy songs but the second side was a bit of a step down. A bit of a varied album in terms of quality and genre, but overall pretty good. Best tracks: Feelin' Alright, You Can All Join In.

That kinda classic late 60's early 70's sounds. Not aggressive, just here for the vibes.

äh vad fan. det får en fyra. fattar inte riktigt vad alla gnäller om detta. det är 60 tals rock utan att det är så mycket psykedeliskt. vad kan bli fel?

I was already familiar with this album. It's part of a string of great albums that also includes Mr. Fantasy, John Barleycorn Must Die, and The Low Spark of High Heeled Boys. This album is probably the most well-rounded out of all of them. It has some whimsical Dave Mason tunes but also some much more heavy sounding stuff in 40,000 Headman and No Time To Live. It's a nice listen, I would listen again for sure.

Braaf maar leuk album, kan bijvoorbeeld makkelijk in gezelschap opgezet worden. Zal hier vast nog wel eens naar luisteren.

Didn't know this was the 'Feelin' Alright'' band! Decent album.

late 60s post-summer of love disillusion "back to basics" british rock steeped in blues and folk is never rly one of my preferred vibes but tbh this might be about as strong as it gets for me (unless like, abbey road counts). maybe because that description is already a slight misnomer (there's definitely some notable psychedelic remnants on this, just not super garish or whatever), but its still definitely part of that stylistic transition from the 60s to the 70s marked by a resistance to the excess that had been building thru the decade's innovations. and yet somehow it doesnt feel one bit less creative tbh! i especially love the last three songs here as a sequence, some muscular stretching out of ambitions before collapsing into a humble earthy finale. rly great guitar licks and songwriting twists in general across the record, again maybe not exactly my idiom but it all feels idiosyncratic and melodically strong. the hammond organ on here also kicks ass, and the gruff vocals here are some of the better british rnb growls ive heard (sounds like damning with faint praise LOL but theyre good!). strangely unsurprising that this band eventually became a prog outfit

My favorite of the so-called British Invasion bands.

Favourite songs: Feelin' Alright?, Medicated Goo, (Roamin' Thro' The Gloamin' With) 40.000 Headman, You Can All Join In, Vagabond Virgin, Who Knows What Tomorrow May Bring, Means To An End, Pearly Queen, Am I What Was Or Am I What I Am Least favourite songs: Don't Be Sad, No Time To Live 4/5

Excellent grooves. One star for each ten thousand headmen.

Chill grooves for my Wednesday...kind of boring though...4

Not my favorite Traffic album but still good.

Some nice sixties rock always hits the spot!

Better than average

Awesome 60s rock, featuring Feelin' Alright

Absolutely loved this one, so many good songs, if there was 4.5 option it'd go there.

High and lows, overall really fucking good.

This album feels different than the 3-4 other Traffic albums I've heard. Seems less Wynwood-y, less psychedlic, less adventurous. I thought it started and ended strong, but withered in the middle. 4/5

Never heard traffic before, actually thought this album was really good craic

I really liked this. There's lots of variety on this album. Feelin' Allright? is a classic! Liked songs added: - Pearly Queen - Who Knows What Tomorrow Will Bring - Feelin' Allright? - Cryin' To Be Heard - Medicated Goo - Shanghai Noodle Factory

First time hearing of this band but it feels like I already know them - their music is a really cool mix of genres, and the album feels really balanced. Pearly Queen, No Time To Leave, and Shanghai Noodle Factory were good. It never got boring, despite being on the long side.

Never heard of these and thought it was mostly really quite good. Quite psychedelic in parts, but then some not so much so. Bit folky too which was good, I think I remember a flute too which I can get behind. Liked medicinal glue. 3.5

Some legit guitar work on this album. Nothing stands out as exceptional, but all very good.

Good folk album, enjoyed it, definitely embodies the era.

This is a really great album

Very creative and enjoyable.

great album, good listen better than john barlycorn im saying it squeaks a 4 Thanks

I love Steve Winwood, so of course I am going to like this! It's picking up the pieces of everything that was happening in the 60s, and making a great concise expression out of it. The songs tend to be a bit to long, without any good reason for them to be so long. I will also say that Winwood got better as he aged, but this is still an objectively great record.

A cool record from one of the coolest bands of the '60s, thogh not their coolest (that would be Barleycorn or Low Spark). "Don't Be Sad," the understated "Feeling Alright" and "Roamin' Thro' the Gloamin" and "Cryin' to be Heard" and "Shanghai Noodle Factory" are all plus cuts, though maybe the lack of a clear blockbuster or unforgettable hook holds this back slightly.

I really enjoyed it. I feel like giving it a four today.

These guys are great. Funky, jazzy, soul-y — just a classy blend of genres with solid songwriting and musicianship.

Had no idea who this band was, or that Steve Winwood was in it … instantly knew the opening track “You Can All Join In” — it’s one of those classic rock songs that I’ve always known but never knew who sang it. Same for the second track “Pearly Queen.” And I had no idea they originated “Feelin Alright,” which I’ve always known as a Van Morrison song (for the record, Morrison’s version is better). There are some massive songs on this album. I listened to this right after listening to The Zutons, so maybe I was just primed for saxophone, but I was immediately jamming to the first song (I think I’m realizing I just really like sax in rock — why did that die out?). The psychedelic blues jam on the second track kept it rolling, and even into the slower Neli Young-esque third track, “Don’t Be Sad,” I was grooving. This album is somewhere between the Jimi Hendrix Experience, Deep Purple, Cream, Stevie Wonder, Curtis Mayfield, and the Allman Brothers Band. All the vocal performances are fantastic. The sax solos are particularly great, as are the guitar solos, but all the musicians are on point. Vagabond Virgin is a big misstep on an otherwise great album — the lyrics are super creepy and the music is also kind of cringe. Probably would’ve been a 5 if not for this track. 4/5 (but really a 4.5) Psychedelic blues rock might be my bag. Note: This review concerns the original 10-track album. The re-release has another five tracks on it, and it’s pretty hit or miss. “Withering Tree” would’ve been a good track, but the vocals are too shrill. “Here We Go Round the Mulberry Bush” isn’t my thing, and the production on it is pretty bad. The other songs are decent.

Quite a mix here. Winwood's rock jams are a superb counterpart to Mason's folk-rock tracks. Very well produced, an easy listening.

This was kind of cool.

I became a big Steve Winwood fan in the 80s and had known he had made a name for himself in Traffic but that was about as far as my knowledge went. This is some fine 60s music - I can hear Steve clearly in the mix - so I liked it.

Solid composition, recording, and arrangement. Is far more interesting and refined than your typical pub band of the time, and manages to walk a fine line of just enough progressive rock, jazz fusion, folk, polka, and blues to keep it interesting but not too much to frighten off the mainstream pop rock listeners. A 70s proto record that was 2-3 years ahead of its time. At 57 minutes Traffic's second album TRAFFIC has great pacing, but begins to test one's patience. I mean, props to them for providing value for a time when you had to actually purchase an album for a sizable chunk of cash, so you couldn't help but be cautious about which albums you committed to buying. Favorite songs: "You can All Join In", "Feeling' Alright?", and "Medicated Goo".

Pretty solid. The stuff that doesn’t mean anything is better than the psychedelic stuff.

Enjoyed this one. Thought it had a lot of strong songs. 3.5/5

Not as good as I'd hoped, but Stevie Winwood is always worth listening to.

Was surprised by how much I like this album. Had some really cool sounds to it, and will definitely revisit a lot of the songs. Not every song was great, but a majority of them were.

4.0

Good, good album. The first gig I ever went to was Steve Winwood in the late '80s, and whilst his solo stuff is very different (and significantly less enjoyable) than this it's still his voice, and he really does have one of the great blues rock voices.

I really enjoyed this. Quite surprised I'd never heard of them, although Steve Winwood's name rang a bell. Thoroughly enjoyed the mix of blues, folk, and psychedelic. You Can All Join In was a strong opener, and Pearly Queen sounded like the authentic blues rock experience I was sorely lacking yesterday when I had to review The Black Keys. Feeling Alright is certainly a classic I'm not sure if I'd ever head the original. Not perfect by any means, but a very solid record IMO.

Far out.

Only got one listen, but really enjoyed the album. Will need more listens, but it just seems like a lot of rock stereotypes of today are from this album. 4/5!

Wasn’t sold on the album until the song No Time To Live. A fun album that covers some topics not so often covered in the late 60s. The lead singer has some good chops too. Album is a bit long but solid. Standouts: Who Knows What Tomorrow May Bring, Feelin’ Alright, 40.000 Headman, Cryin’ To Be Heard, No Time To Live, and Shanghai Noodle Factory.

Yes - love this band. Highly original and distinctive. OK, just like in this cover photo Steve Winwood was central to the whole thing, no Winwood no Traffic etc, but they were a really good band. And there was definitely better to come after this, their second album.

Liked it a lot

Day128 - it blows my mind that 20 year olds were making such great music

This was some fun late 60s British stuff I'd never heard. Again, please!

This is fine, like the other Traffic album on this list. I would characterize it as a better version of the Grateful Dead. But I don't really see why it deserves to be on this list; certainly two albums by this band is too much. What is great is the album cover. Seriously. What are they wearing? Each one of them is individually, uniquely, bonkers. Extra star for sartorial excellence.

The album was a lot of fun. I will listen to it again. 4/5

Standouts: Feelin’ Alright, You Can All Join In, Pearly Queen, Who Knows What Tomorrow May Bring, Vagabond Virgin, No Time to Live. 4/5

Blues folk rock. Un megahit. Un 4.

Really great album. Love the bluesy vibes and Steve Winwood’s soulful voice. Only thing that stops it from being perfect is the fucking organs…..what is it about late 60s / early 70s and fucking organs

Actually, very good

Interesting and certainly cool but lacks killer hooks and clear hits and gets a bit muddly to the middle. There are plenty of cool moments, just enought to merit a 4, one thinks and one will keep listening to Traffic long after this counting exercise gets completed. But, LBH, there's a bit more flute than any rock record should have. Lord knows it could do with crisper, cleaner production. The English folk tradition was better done by Fairport. "Don't Be Sad" is best cut, but one also digs this original version of lower-key "Feeling Alright" and "Roamin' Thro' the Gloamin" (title alone is great). "Cryin' to be Heard" has a minor majestly, with its Procul Harum vibes and liturgical notes. Not sure if "Shanghai Noodle Factory," was a B-side, outtake or deluxe version add-on or what, but its groovy, mellow jam-bandy groove clearly should have been on the record, perhaps even the centerpiece. Winwood's voice has never been a personal fave, really. It must also be said that JBMD is undoubtedly better and Low Spark of High-Heeled Boys might be, too, certainly offers a better showcase for their alleged virtuosity.

This feels like a weak album from a great band. I loved a lot of what I heard but it feels like less than the sum of its parts. First three tracks are all cool and different but don't really work for me together. I kept flipping between a weak 4 or a strong 3 but I've been giving mediocre rock albums a 3 in general and I think this is better than say War on Drugs or Foo Fighters. I'm looking forward to hearing their other albums on this list.

Mand, spand, vand, wuuuuh! Okay. Jeg nød det her. Kommer jeg til at huske den i fremtiden? - Nej, men jeg hyggede mig virkelig.

4 Feelin' Alright.

Saxophon, Folk-Rock und eine homöopathische Pertion Blues und schon fühlt man sich in die späten 60er versetzt. Unbefangene Songs auf einem Album, dass zunächst unspektakulär startet. Aber nach der Single-Auskopplung „Feeling Alright“ wird es abwechslungsreich. „Vagabound Virgin“, „40.000 Headman“, „Crying to the Heard“ und das verrückte Stück „Here we Go Round..“ sind kurzweilig und sehr zur Wiederholung geeignet.

1968???

The first song is awful, but if you push past that the album becomes more experimental and you can hear the clear influence this album had on many other artists. 3.5/5.0: Very Good

interesting listen

Never listened to this whole album before. It’s a beautiful album, so reflective of its time - a cross between jazz, blues & rock

Easy light classic rock. Nothing stands out as amazing, and only a few songs I’d add to a playlist. But it’s consistent.

Enjoyed

I love some blues rock. Will probably turn this on to rock out sometime

As I was listening to this album, I kept thinking "these dudes have to be American." It's got that CCR, Three Dog Night, Lynyrd Skynyrd southern rock vibe. Apparently, they're British and their lead singer is "one of the most gifted interpreters of American music around..." It shows. The songs a little long, but most of them are lyric heavy. The high pitch guitar riffs fit in perfectly. I didn't know that "Feelin' Alright" was their song! I only knew the Joe Cocker cover. A big hell yeah to this album, muted southern rock as presented by a bunch of brits.

At its best, this album is a great example of that specific style of prog rock. You know, the one that is a bit more engaging, has lyrics that make sense and some folk elements, but apparently still counts as prog? And based on my limited knowledge, it seems to be an early example too, so a good choice for the list. But then there are some random unserious songs (it's a 60s rock album, after all), and some tracks that don't seem to really go anywhere like they aren't as thought through. Now that I think of it, that might have been the majority of the album. Still, it's kind of adorable, so I can't give less than four stars.

Side A was incredible, but Side B slowed down significantly.

3.5** I enjoyed this one a lot! It showcased a decent range of musical styles from a band that I’m not too familiar with

I like the psychedelic feel on a lot of the songs. 3.9*

Standouts: Feelin' Alright Excellent 4/5

Si bien es cierto, combina las influencias del blues con el rock y el folk. Los arreglos son bastantes sencillos donde se cuentan historias cortas y precisas, la integibilidad de todo el disco es optima. Tiene una sonoridad muy estadounidense a pesar de ser británicos.

This really isn't what I was expecting to hear from a Traffic album. Nicely varied, some good tunes and I was expecting a great performance. Good stuff.

i was expecting a more classic 60s type album but this was way better. kind of like if King Crimson decided to be radio friendly for an album

Interesting. I know Steve Winwood. I got Dave Mason confused with Mason Williams.

Introduction: Released in 1968, "Traffic" is the second studio album by the British rock band Traffic. Comprising Steve Winwood, Jim Capaldi, Chris Wood, and Dave Mason, the band blended various genres, creating a distinctive sound that incorporated rock, jazz, folk, and psychedelia. This album, often referred to as the "Mr. Fantasy" album due to its iconic opening track, showcases the band's musical versatility and experimentation. Lyrics: The lyrics on "Traffic" demonstrate a fusion of introspective themes and psychedelic imagery. Steve Winwood, the primary lyricist, crafts poetic verses that delve into personal reflections and existential musings. The opening track, "Heaven Is in Your Mind," sets the tone with its dreamy lyrics, inviting listeners to explore their inner thoughts. The lyrical depth is evident in tracks like "Dear Mr. Fantasy," where Winwood and Capaldi delve into the complexities of life and the elusive search for meaning. However, one potential drawback lies in the occasional vagueness of the lyrics, leaving room for interpretation but potentially alienating listeners seeking more direct narratives. Despite this, the poetic nature of the lyrics adds a layer of mystique to the album. Music: "Traffic" stands out for its musical diversity and proficiency. The album seamlessly weaves together rock, jazz, and folk elements, showcasing the band's instrumental prowess. Steve Winwood's soulful voice and multi-instrumental skills shine throughout the album, especially on tracks like "Coloured Rain," where his Hammond organ playing takes center stage. The dynamic interplay between the band members, particularly the jazz-influenced flute of Chris Wood, adds a unique texture to the music. The use of unconventional instruments, such as the sitar on "Dealer," reflects the band's willingness to experiment and push musical boundaries. The instrumental sections are both intricate and spontaneous, giving the album a sense of improvisational freedom. However, some may find the extended instrumental passages a bit indulgent, potentially detracting from the overall cohesiveness for those seeking more concise arrangements. Production: The production of "Traffic" is a testament to the era's evolving recording techniques and the band's willingness to embrace studio experimentation. The album's sonic landscape is characterized by a warm, analog feel, with a notable absence of overproduction. The decision to record much of the album live in the studio contributes to the organic and authentic sound that captures the essence of Traffic's live performances. However, the production does have its imperfections. At times, the mix can feel uneven, with certain instruments overpowering others. This may be a deliberate choice to emphasize the spontaneity of the recording process, but it can be a drawback for listeners who prefer a more polished sound. Themes: "Traffic" explores a range of themes, from introspection and self-discovery to societal commentary. The title track, "Mr. Fantasy," is a standout with its exploration of escapism and the desire to transcend the mundane. "Dealer" delves into the complexities of addiction, offering a poignant portrayal of the struggles associated with substance abuse. The thematic diversity adds depth to the album, inviting listeners to engage with its content on multiple levels. However, the lack of a cohesive overarching theme may lead to a somewhat disjointed listening experience. While the individual tracks excel in conveying specific ideas, a more unified thematic thread could have enhanced the album's overall impact. Influence: "Traffic" is a pivotal album in the late 1960s rock scene, influencing subsequent generations of musicians. The band's ability to seamlessly blend genres and experiment with unconventional instruments paved the way for the progressive rock movement of the 1970s. The album's impact on the psychedelic rock genre is evident in its creative use of studio effects and ethereal atmospheres. Despite its influence, "Traffic" did not receive immediate commercial success. However, its critical acclaim and subsequent cult following solidified its place in the annals of rock history. The band's willingness to defy musical norms and explore uncharted territories set a precedent for future artists seeking to push the boundaries of genre conventions. Pros and Cons: Pros: Musical Diversity: The album's fusion of rock, jazz, and folk creates a rich and diverse musical landscape. Instrumental Proficiency: Each band member's instrumental skills contribute to the album's overall excellence. Experimental Approach: The willingness to experiment with unconventional instruments and recording techniques showcases the band's artistic courage. Influence: "Traffic" left an enduring impact on the rock genre, influencing subsequent generations of musicians. Cons: Vague Lyrics: The occasional vagueness of the lyrics may alienate listeners seeking more direct narratives. Extended Instrumental Passages: Some listeners may find the extended instrumental sections indulgent, potentially detracting from the album's cohesiveness. Uneven Mix: The mix can feel uneven at times, with certain instruments overpowering others. Lack of Cohesive Theme: While individual tracks excel thematically, the album lacks a cohesive overarching theme, resulting in a somewhat disjointed listening experience. Conclusion: "Traffic" is a landmark album that captures the spirit of the late 1960s, showcasing a band at the height of its creative prowess. Its blend of genres, instrumental proficiency, and experimental approach make it a timeless piece of musical art. While it may have its imperfections, the album's enduring influence and critical acclaim solidify its status as a classic in the rock canon. For those willing to embark on a musical journey that transcends boundaries, "Traffic" remains a must-listen, inviting listeners to explore the depths of its poetic lyrics and intricate musical arrangements.

Wunderbar vielseitig, verschiedene Genres. Nur unklar, ob ein Song tatsächlich so gut ist, dass er im Gedächtnis bleibt.

Un buen álbum con tres o cuatro canciones estelares.

Traffic is one of those bands I really like, they have a couple songs that are classics and I own a couple of their better albums (John Barleycorn.../...High Heel Boys), but I always felt there was something holding them back from being truly a great band. The early albums are good, but they also released several sub-par later records amongst many lineup changes. What elevates Traffic over other bands of the era is the sophisticated level of their musicianship. These were talented players and Steve Winwood and Dave Mason wrote some fine songs with Traffic (their second album) and their debut, Mr.Fantasy showcasing this best. Lots to love on this album with an eclectic mix of jazz, folk, rock and blues. A good, enjoyable listen!

El blues rock de Steve Winwood i cia començava a agafar embranzida. Havien de millorar-lo en posteriors treballs, però aquí la barreja poderosa d'arrels britàniques i sons nordamericans, juntament amb el talent de Winwood, Jim Capaldi i Dave Mason, arriba ja a quotes de qualitat molt rellevants

They are classics, but I was never as much a fan of Steve Winwood/Blind Faith or Traffic as Eddie V was

This record really highlights Traffic’s blend of jazz, folk, soul, and psychedelia. This was the last album they would release before their first breakup. It feels like a band on the verge of quitting in places. All the songs are strong, but the record lacks cohesiveness.

Surprisingly fresh 60s folk rock!

Traffic were an interesting band with an equally interesting history. In their last album before their initial dissolution, the band splits into a tale of two cities largely basing themselves on what was possible and what ended up becoming. The soul influence and pure rock and roll seesaw is what balances Traffic, bringing along realization amongst the familiar and shining a light towards the new. They'll be back soon enough. Favorites: You Can All Join In, Don't Be Sad, Who Knows What Tomorrow May Bring, Feelin' Alright?, Vagabond Virgin, Cryin' to be Heard, No Time to Live, Withering Tree, Medicated Goo.

Wow. No time to live is great. This album is good. 4/5

I've always found Traffic to be one of those bands best experienced by way of a greatest hits collection. They have some outstanding songs, which unfortunately are scattered among half a dozen or so albums. This album is like much of their discography, flashes of brilliance but with a dose of filler. The band's folk infused sound is soulful, earthy, a bit jammy, and amiable across the board. Always a solid listen. The tracks with Winwood on vocals are generally superior to Mason's, although "You Can All Join In" happens to be my favorite. Fave Songs: You Can All Join In, Roamin' Thru' the Gloamin' with 40,000 Headmen, No Time to Live, Pearly Queen, Means to an End, Feelin' Alright?

An album that has everything the sixties can offer, save for a hit single.

Good one

A great 60s album by a band id honestly never heard of - Steve Winwood bringing a great sound for nice casual listening.

Traffic’s first lineup was falling apart behind the scenes while this was being recorded, but hearing these songs you’d never know it: the band is tight and harmonious, their jazz and prog flourishes a joy to hear. Steve Winwood is one of the most soulful white boys in music for a reason.

Very solid, John barleycorn must die is better but still great stuff

Really good album. Never listened to Traffic much before but was definitely missing out. Lots of the aspects similar to Cream and other major blues inspired rock bands.

This has surprised me, I definitely hear the influence this band's sound must've had on music in general, especially some of their guitar riffs

Great Rock album.

Lots of quality catchy tunes on this album. I think I accidentally listened to this one twice and enjoyed it both times. Outside my usual taste, glad this album was on the list!

Great Album, lots of varied styles of music. Every track enjoyable. Favourite tracks. No time to live and Crying to be Heard.

Not terrible

Easy listening. A decent amount of songs I saved but a decent bit that were kinda forgetful. Rating: 3.9

This was a really solid blues/folk rock album. Though for some reason like a lot of other great albums has a very meh opening song. "You Can All Join In" is a fine song but nothing mind-blowing. They then follow it up with two of my favorite songs on the album "Pearly Queen" and "Don't Be Sad". "Who Knows What Tomorrow May Bring" is another solid track and then you get into the really good stuff. "Feelin' Alright", "(Roamin' Thro' The Gloamin' With) 40.000 Headman", "Cryin' To Be Heard", "No Time To Live" and "Means To An End" are all great tracks. "Vagabond Virgin" is good too but not on the level of the other tracks I mentioned. I knew this album was going to be good just by looking at the members of the band and the other groups they were a part of. My only other criticism is at times this album can be a little obvious in the decisions it makes. Still it is really good but even some of the better tracks on here feel like they could have been made by plenty of folk/jazz/psych. rock bands from this era and some probably could have done it better. Still though it is good enough to be a 9/10

I got a Jethrow Tull and Almand Brothers vibe.

I'm impressed by this, from the very first notes the album is hooky and groovy. Occasionally the lyrics veer into eye rolling hippie stereotypes, but the vast majority was simply enjoyable. The one I recognized, of course, was "Feelin' Alright?", but there were other standouts for me, including "You Can All Join In" "Who Knows What Tomorrow May Bring" and "Cryin' to be Heard." The bonus tracks made the album much too long but there were a couple good songs there too.

pretty groovy

This album just sounds great! Almost sounds like Grateful Dead in a way. Love the keyboard and the vocals. Never hit a low point in this album. Nice variety throughout the album. I would definitely listen to this one again.

Traffic shreds in the beginning of this album before it cools down before Feeling Alright, which I didn't know was by Traffic and is a jam. The whole album is some great rock with a little bit of trippiness sprinkled in. I really want some Medicated Goo. It sounds delicious and that song was a bop

honky-tonk beatlesque soft-rock? yes please

I really like Traffic because I've always felt they were unique and smart in their instrumentation and song craft. This self titled album was one I had placed on a list of music to check out and purchase years ago back before streaming had really taken off. I had forgotten about this and I'm glad I had the chance to check it out. Only really being familiar with John Barleycorn Must Die and onward, I was a bit surprised by how their sound had evolved. Dave Mason providing more psychedelic pop with Jim Capaldi and Steve Winwood focusing more on moody, introspective jamming. What I loved was hearing how these two dynamics (including voices) began to converge and take shape into places I didn't expect. It's a bit long winded, but this is a great collection of songs. For some reason this made me think of Robert Wyatt a little.

I never heard of them and I admit I came in skeptical, but this band captures a lot of what I love about 60s music: poetic lyrics, good vibes, harmonies, creativity, harpsichord… I enjoyed it!

Un álbum sumamente interesante que se adelantó a las tendencias del rock fusión de las siguientes décadas. Con una duración precisa y canciones atrapante, el homónimo de Traffic es sin duda un imprescindible de la música.

I can't come up with a reason to make this album 3 stars. Great guitar playing. Educated writing. It's good stuff.

Folky group hit home with this CCR lover.

A weaker 4 perhaps, but a 4 nonetheless.

One of the five best Brit bands of the era. Another case of almost too much individual talent and not enough room per album to showcase it. Solid delivery of a great product

Surprisingly good. Nice psychedelic solos, all tracks are good

A couple duds but solid

The second half of this LP made for one of the more interesting musical sound-scapes I've been immersed in lately. Not my genre but definitely see why it made the list

first listen great stuff man

Extremely well-done album. Each song is memorable in its own way and they all stick out. After all the repetitive albums I've gotten on this website, I"m so happy I got something genuinely original and exciting with each new song.

The eas way better than I thought it would be. Amazing, soulful blues rock

Some really great slightly country-inflected classic rock!

Really enjoyed this one - the opening track was particularly fun but the rest was still a great mix of folk, prog, and blues

Un bon album rock j aie la voix de winwood et les chansons en général sont top c'est pas loin du 5 mais 4.85

A funky blend of rock, funk, prog, psychedelia, folk, etc. that all feels way ahead of its time. A fun time! Definitely surpassed my middling expectations. I would listen to this again, and even seek out more tracks from Traffic.

Jolly music :) Great drumming going on too

Cool mix of 60's blues and British rock. I miss the psychedelic aspects but this is still really cool. Has a nice variety of sounds.

Like this! Esp the tracks for the soundtrack from 'Here we go round the mulberry bush!

Blues folk rock. Un megahit. Un 4.

It seems I haven't given this band enough of a chance. I've thoroughly enjoyed both of their albums on this list. Need to do a deep dive on them. Best track: Cryin' to be Heard

Switch to the non-album single “Here We Go Round the Mulberry Bush” was like a splash of cold water in the face, in how different it was to the actual album 💿 Two of these 60s albums back to back (following Chelsea Girl)- and aside from ripping off the brilliant Was (Not Was) to make “Pearly Queen”, this one is also more enjoyable than expected. More sweet, sweet harpsichord to be found in “Cryin’ To Be Heard” Less waffling here than in John Barleycorn Must Die HL: “Feelin’ Alright”, “Don’t Be Sad”, “Cryin’ To Be Heard”, “No Time To Live” June 9, 2023

funky folksy and fmixolydian fmelodiessss

Tiene aaaltos temas la primera mitad del disco, seleccione como 5, despues decae un poco pero es muy bueno. Es como un rock-country.