Mr. Tambourine Man

Always been a bit confused by The Byrds..... do they really deserve reverence for being a band that took Dylan songs and made them janglier?

Can you imagine being the type of person who’d start this record and then listen to “I’ll Feel a Whole Lot Better” eleven times in a row before letting the album continue? I can, because that’s exactly what I did.

What a great debut album with an electrifying distinctive original sound mainly due to Roger McGuin's chiming 12 string Rickenbacker. The songwriting is obviously bolstered by four Dylan covers, but they sit nicely alongside the originals and the other covers. It's a mature album with themes like Welsh mining disasters (the majestic 'Bells of Rhymney') and oppression (Dylan's 'Chimes of Freedom'). There's plenty of lovely west coast vocal harmonies but they never sound sappy. Other highlights include the title track, 'All I Really Want To Do' (even better on the mono 45 mix), 'I'll Feel A Whole Lot Better' and the Bo Didley beat on 'Don't Doubt Yourself Babe'. They even make the standard 'We'll Meet Again' fit their jangly sound. The songs all benefit from Terry Melcher's crystalline production. And how cool is the fisheye lense cover art.

Ah, 1965. Everyone wanted to sound like the Beatles and Bob Dylan, and the first song on this album manages to do both. A pleasant album.

Every song on this album sounds basically the same. There's muddy words, a 60's sounding guitar, and a tambourine. Although the sound is fine, it doesn't really change that much over the course of the album. Favorite track: It's No Use

Boring but not unpleasant. Was kinda disappointed by the We’ll Meet Again cover but alas. 6

Day 24 of Albums You Must Hear… The Byrds, an American band, were a short lived, yet extremely popular collective in the mid 60’s. Their album Mr. Tambourine Man was able to shine amongst the British acts that invaded American air waves during this era. I won’t go deep into the history of this band, but they are worthy of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, in which they were inducted in 1991. The lyrics are clear and simple, the harmonies are spot on and the satisfying 12 string Rickenbacker guitar exemplifies the sound of the flower child years. Mr. Tambourine man has a lot of Bob Dylan covers, which is a little odd, but perhaps thats why this band was coined as Folk Rock. I love 60’s music, much of which I’m familiar with because of my favorite television show from the 80’s, The Wonder Years. I first heard songs from The Byrds watching that show as a kid. Much of Mr. Tambourine Man’s non-Dylan songs are about adolescent romance, not unlike early music from The Beach Boys and The Beatles. My Favorite song is I’ll Feel a Whole Lot Better (When You’re Gone), I mean, who can’t relate at some point to that feeling in their past. The harmony of the vocals is very catchy and very 60’s. The song I least like is All I Really Want To Do, a Dylan cover. It’s about only wanting to be friends with a girl. It’s so damn stupid to me, like, is this a former lover or a girl that has a crush on you? Either way, why write a song and record it for the whole world to hear? Poor girl, dumb song. The title track, Mr. Tambourine has been recorded to death by many artists over the years, but I might like this version the most, while Stevie Wonder’s cover is cool as shit. I am probably safe in assuming this song is about the neighborhood dope man. She Has a Way is a sweet song, again, about adolescent love and wanting to settle down. The majority of kids these days will probably shit on this music for the lack of WAP and electronic drums, but it’s a good album and I enjoyed the majority of it. I appreciate the music of years past and I had fun with Mr. Tambourine Man! Please share your thoughts, memories and opinions!

There's a bit in the doors film where manzerik says 'bit like the byrds man' and it's not a complement. Jingle jangle boring. 2

I was never a fan of the jingle jangle guitar of the title track. I was trying to ignore the beta-cuck energy of be friends with you to give a safe 3 stars. But finishing with we’ll meet again push me from passive annoyance to activate disdain.

This album showcases the amazing Roger McGuinn and that 12 string guitar sound - the songs are fun, pop and definately for their time but the songwriting is strong and the harmonies are great. In amongst the songs you'll find Chimes of Freedom which is far from lightweight pop take a listen. The hit from the album is All I Really Want To Do but the album enjoyable even 58 years on from its original release.

It's got a lot of covers, but my God, they're good covers. The absolute balls to open with Mr Tambourine Man and then end with We'll Meet Again with jangly, British invasion styles is incredible. The sheer influence of the album can't be denied, especially in my favourite genres, and it's a great time to boot. Definitely a summer album, maybe smoking a joint in a back garden. 04/03/23

What a influential album not only at the time but for years afterwards. Jim (Roger) McGuinn's 12 string jangly Rickenbacker sound is iconic and is still being echo today. Though what really stands out for me are 2 of the Gene Clark songs, Here with out you is just so dark and complex. The gem of the album for me I'll Feel a Whole Lot Better, it's pop perfection, I just love this song and unlike most of the album which has that 60's era sound (they did invent it) this song sounds almost timeless. Tom Petty also does a great version too, not surprising given how this band influenced him.

The debut album from The Byrds and it's possibly their best album, but with their solid run from this album to Sweetheart, any of those albums could've taken top honours (not Turn! Turn! Turn! though, that one wasn't so good). It does rely on covers more than most of their other albums but that shouldn't be a detraction to the quality of the songs here.

Nr. 112/1001 Mr. Tambourine Man 3/5 I'll Feel A Whole Lot Better 4/5 Spanish Harlem Incident 3/5 You Won't Have To Cry 4/5 Here Without You 5/5 The Bells Of Rhymny 2/5 All I Really Want To Do 4/5 I Knew I'd Want You 4/5 It's No Use 4/5 Don't Doubt Yourself, Babe 3/5 Chimes Of Freedom 3/5 We'll Meet Again 3/5 She Has A Way 3/5 Average: 3,46 Good

Not really my cup of tea but obvious that they paved the way for a lot of American bands in the folk/country rock genre

this list needs more byrds albums i think

An easy classic

Jingly jangly excellence. I love it. Five stars and an addition to my Tidal library.

Really enjoyed that toe-tapping sound of the sixties!

Hokey and earnest but good.

Excepțional, really good vibes

This is a great album by The Byrds! The depth of arrangement and the jangle in tone make this a n enormous classic

How a group became a legend after a cover. They perfectioned and invented folk rock.

jangle

Iconic!

The beginning of folk rock and an absolutely wonderful album. That 12 string guitar (especially that riff on Tambourine Man) creates some of the most iconic guitar sounds to come out of the sixties, and the harmonies are incredible. Gene Clark does not get enough credit for his pop genius along with Crosby and McGuinn, and I'll Feel A Whole Lot Better is a near perfect song.

Mega ***

Listening to this album I can't help thinking that The Byrds really paved the way, sonically, for bands like R.E.M., Let's Active, Green on Red, to name a few. I guess maybe my enjoyment of the album has something to do with this being the remastered version, but the sound production is perfect- vocals in front and each instrument comes through crisp and clear. I dont know if that made me like the album even more then I would have but I simply love the jangling guitar and the amazing harmonies. A new favorite.

if they're a byrd im a byrd. downloaded 1,2,4,5,7,8,9,10,12 and 13

Great!

Byrds fan from their beginning. Still follow individual members in their new endeavors.

Fine

Introduction: Released in 1965, "Mr. Tambourine Man" marked a pivotal moment in the history of folk and rock music. The Byrds, a band from Los Angeles, skillfully blended folk and rock elements, creating an album that not only defined the folk-rock genre but also influenced countless artists that followed. In this in-depth review, we will delve into the album's lyrics, music, production, themes, and its lasting influence on the music industry. Lyrics: The album's title track, "Mr. Tambourine Man," is a lyrical masterpiece, written by the legendary Bob Dylan. The poetic and surreal lyrics take the listener on a dreamlike journey, filled with vivid imagery and introspective reflections. The opening lines, "Hey, Mr. Tambourine Man, play a song for me," serve as an invitation to escape reality and embrace the power of music. The Byrds' interpretation of this song set a high standard for cover versions, with its harmonious vocal delivery and jangly guitars capturing the essence of Dylan's original while adding a distinctive touch. The rest of the album's lyrics maintain a similar poetic quality. Tracks like "I'll Feel a Whole Lot Better" and "Spanish Harlem Incident" showcase the band's ability to craft emotionally resonant and evocative lyrics. The themes explored in the songs range from love and heartbreak to existential pondering, reflecting the social and cultural changes of the 1960s. Music: The Byrds' musical prowess shines throughout "Mr. Tambourine Man." The use of the 12-string Rickenbacker guitar, a signature sound of the band, creates a shimmering and distinctive sonic palette. This jangly guitar sound, showcased prominently in tracks like "All I Really Want to Do," became a hallmark of the folk-rock genre and influenced countless musicians. The vocal harmonies, a key element of The Byrds' sound, are a standout feature. The seamless blend of Roger McGuinn, Gene Clark, and David Crosby's voices creates a rich and melodic tapestry that elevates the album to a higher artistic level. The vocal arrangements in songs like "I'll Feel a Whole Lot Better" and "Chimes of Freedom" demonstrate the band's vocal prowess and their ability to deliver emotionally charged performances. The inclusion of Dylan's material, in addition to other covers and original compositions, showcases the band's versatility. From the upbeat folk-rock of "All I Really Want to Do" to the introspective "I'll Feel a Whole Lot Better," The Byrds demonstrate a range of musical styles that contribute to the album's dynamic appeal. Production: "Mr. Tambourine Man" benefits from the production work of Terry Melcher, who skillfully captures the essence of The Byrds' sound while ensuring a polished and balanced mix. The clarity of each instrument, from the distinctive Rickenbacker guitars to the harmonious vocals, contributes to the album's overall sonic quality. The decision to include both original compositions and covers in the album's tracklist demonstrates a thoughtful curation of material. The production choices enhance the thematic coherence of the album, creating a cohesive listening experience that takes the audience on a journey through the various facets of folk and rock music. Themes: The album reflects the cultural and social shifts of the 1960s. The lyrics often touch on themes of individualism, introspection, and a desire for change. The title track, "Mr. Tambourine Man," encapsulates the countercultural spirit of the time, where music served as a means of liberation and escape from societal norms. Tracks like "I'll Feel a Whole Lot Better" and "Here Without You" delve into the complexities of love and heartbreak, capturing the personal struggles and emotional landscapes of the era. The inclusion of Dylan's socially conscious "Chimes of Freedom" adds a layer of political and cultural relevance to the album. Influence: "Mr. Tambourine Man" had a profound impact on the music industry, influencing the development of the folk-rock genre and shaping the sound of subsequent bands. The use of the 12-string guitar and vocal harmonies became defining elements of the folk-rock movement, with bands like The Byrds paving the way for others, including The Mamas & the Papas and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. The album's influence extends beyond its immediate genre, touching on the broader landscape of popular music. Artists from various genres, including Tom Petty, R.E.M., and The Bangles, have acknowledged the impact of The Byrds and "Mr. Tambourine Man" on their own musical journeys. Pros: Innovative Sound: The use of the 12-string Rickenbacker guitar and harmonious vocals created a unique and influential sound that defined folk-rock. Lyrical Depth: The album features thought-provoking and poetic lyrics, particularly in the iconic title track. Versatility: The inclusion of both covers and original compositions showcases the band's musical versatility. Lasting Influence: The album's impact on the folk-rock genre and its influence on subsequent generations of musicians solidify its place in music history. Cons: Limited Original Material: While the covers are well-executed, the reliance on outside material may be seen as a limitation in terms of showcasing the band's songwriting abilities. Uneven Quality: Some tracks, while competent, may not reach the same level of excellence as the standout moments on the album. Sonic Similarity: The jangly guitar sound, while iconic, is consistently present throughout the album and might become monotonous for some listeners. Conclusion: "Mr. Tambourine Man" stands as a landmark album in the evolution of folk and rock music. The Byrds' innovative sound, coupled with their thoughtful interpretation of diverse material, resulted in a timeless collection of songs. The album's influence is immeasurable, shaping the folk-rock genre and leaving an indelible mark on the broader musical landscape. While not without its minor flaws, "Mr. Tambourine Man" remains a testament to The Byrds' artistic vision and enduring impact on the world of popular music.

Just classic. The sound of the 60’s setting a high standard for those that came after. Each musician is excellent.

Despite loving the song Mr. Tambourine Man I actually never listened to the whole album before. Really great!

Love this album. The Byrds harmonies are so comforting.

Amazing album full of folk rock. Some of the songs didn’t age well, but the covers are good. 4.8/5 Fav: “I’ll Feel a Whole Lot Better” Least Fav: “Spanish Harlem Incident”

i'm a huge byrds fan, so no shock that i love this album. although i don't think it is their best effort, it is their first and arguably, their most monumental. although really, the credit goes to the title track, this album shifted the direction of popular (rock) music from british invasion merseybeat style stuff to something brand new, folk rock, taking the songs of folk music and combining them with a then-modern rock sound. in modern contexts, perhaps this album does not sound impressive or is particularly interesting, but within context, this album is a watershed moment in 20th century popular music.

I am listening this album with the great pleasure again . The folk rock is very nice.

Classic 4,5

A good album, I liked their cover of We'll Meet Again and the instrumental song on the album You And Me. My favourite songs on the album were Chimes of Freedom and Mr Tambourine Man.

Album 261 of 1001 The Byrds - Mr. Tambourine Man Rating : 5 / 5 (Rounded Up) At the core, this is the period/genre of music I enjoy most. It was released just a couple of months before I was born, surely in anticipation of my arrival. Such a classic sound. Sort of Beatle-esque? Sure but still they are their own. Listening through the 1001 Albums playlist from the beginning to around number 830 (and still going), I have heard a lot of The Byrds. More than maybe should be on the list. This album encompasses their sound the best. Everything else was just gravy. I'm surprised at the low number of plays many of these songs have on Spotify. This is a very, very good album. I wish more would listen.

This is so freaking good! Love it. Smooth as butter

love the byrds

Ah, here are the jangly Byrds I was looking for! After three albums from their 1967-68 era (worth listening to, mind you, but so so very different) I was very happy to finally hear an album of what I always thought of as the Byrds' signature sound. In the jingle jangle morning I'll come following you! Yay!

This is the album I expected from The Byrds. Packed with the songs I know and love along with other tunes that were new to me but very much sounded like they belonged here. It’s amazing how they made the Dylan songs their own. Easy to take this for granted now, so it was good to listen with fresh ears and hear the tsunami of musical influence flowing from this album to this day.

I really enjoyed this one too

I like far too much stuff influenced directly by this jangle pop to not give a perfect score, even though the Vera Lynn cover is shite.

idk yet

I love The Byrds, and this is a fantastic album. While most of these songs are covers, they're all great, as are the few originals. My favorites are "Mr. Tambourine Man," "I'll Feel a Whole Lot Better," and "Chimes of Freedom."

They’re THEM

5-

I am old.

This album starts with one of the most iconic riffs ever and introduced me to the Rickenbacker 12 string guitar. Roger McGuinn was my first ‘favorite guitarist’. With this album The Byrds helped me understand and appreciate Bob Dylan Their harmonies are great, and the guitar work throughout is so good.

Oooh some good 60s oldies. I can dig it! There's something very special with these older pioneers of rock. This album was incredible!! Absolutely loved it.. I love music that can transport me back in time, and this record definitely did that for me. This had the unmistakable sound of the 60s, every track on this record was excellent!

Not got the most amount of bangers. But if you like all the songs then it's got to be a 5 right? Mr tamboomrine man 🤦‍♂️

Nice album!

Very good, very like. Great harmonies. Alot of stuff I liked.

This is a perfect classic 60's album. This guitar sound is so influential it can still be heard in lots of indie rock records to this day. Perfectly crafted songs carried by lush jangly 12 strings guitar and gorgeous harmonies. 9,5/10

This one's a beaut from start to finish. Clean, precise, instrumentation with impeccable vocals and harmonization. Maybe a bit tame for any younger audience but for an old goat like me, it's mana from the gods.

Fun old classic rock.

I loved this album (finally got a good one) and I have wonder how much that dates me.

Adoro i Byrds. Jingle jangle, jingle jangle.

Wonderful album!

A classic

приятное ретро, которое как будто уже где-то слышал

Too many favourite things here

Love this album and happy that i had further recommendations of 60’s music that had that feel good factor 👍🏻

Parecido com The Beatles

It's been a long time since I listened to this album. It's very enjoyable and holds up well after all this time. I completely forgot about "We'll Meet Again." It's a great cover of a song I always liked.

This album was great, although sometimes I wished the mixes were a little different (some voices stuck out more than I wanted them to- maybe I'm spoiled by Crosby's perfect harmonies with CSNY?) but that is a very small quibble. It was simultaneously upbeat and mellow, offered plenty of Dylan covers, and was exactly the vibe I wanted last night.

10/10

This is what to me is the classic Byrds album Belongs in every music lovers collection. Ringing guitars, beautiful harmonies, rich production overall and the songs....wow. The Dylan covers like the title track, Chimes of Freedom and All I Really Want To Do are beautifully rendered and the originals; I'll Feel a Whole Lit Better and Here Without You show a maturity ro their writing that would develop even more on later albums.. favourite track; The Bells of Rhymney. 5 🌟 (note my copy is a Sundazed Vinyl pressing that includes two very good bonus tracks so that's what I'm commenting on and rating.)

This is what to me is the classic Byrds album Belongs in every music lovers collection. Ringing guitars, beautiful harmonies, rich production overall and the songs....wow. The Dylan covers like the title track, Chimes of Freedom and All I Really Want To Do are beautifully rendered and the originals; I'll Feel a Whole Lit Better and Here Without You show a maturity ro their writing that would develop even more on later albums.. favourite track; The Bells of Rhymney. 5 🌟 (note my copy is a Sundazed Vinyl pressing that includes two very good bonus tracks so that's what I'm commenting on and rating.)

Really great. Love the 60's.

Another album I already own on vinyl. I'll never tire of the Byrds.

spookily like the one that precedes it

Love that 12 string sound, and the songs are so earnest and soulful. Iconic.

Super

INCREDIBLE

I've heard this one a zillion times, and it's a favorite. Chimes Of Freedom is outstanding! The best Dylan cover ever, tho Hendrix's All Along The Watchtower comes close!

Suuuper easy listening. Great to pop on and get stuff done

Now we're talking! Love the Byrds. Love Dylan. This is THE 60s. Eight miles high is a classic too.

Really enjoyed this album! They sound very similar to The Beatles.

WOW, what a fantastic album. Classic 60s sound with song like their cover of Mr. Tambourine Man and All I Really Want to Do, to a heavy song with It's No Use and the downtrodden I knew I'd Want You. This is front to back great.

Mr. Tambourine Man is the debut studio album by the Byrds, originally released in 1965. The Byrds are so legendary. That signature 12-string sound just hits different. This is their debut record, and while not as strong as their other releases, it's pretty damn good. You can definitely hear the seeds of Psychedelic rock being planted. This is also one of the albums that basically invented folk rock. I do think they relied a bit too much on Dylan covers on this record, which brings the score back a little bit. They were perfectly capable of making original hits. See "I'll Feel a Whole Lot Better", one of my favorite 60s pop tracks.

December 17, 2024 saving the jangliest for last, it's Byrds no. 5 (...no. 5) “Feel a Whole Lot Better” is one of my favourite songs from the 60’s So they CAN release consistently great albums! Very much stays in its lane, though as I already know from Notorious Byrd Brothers and Younger Than Yesterday, they pretty quickly find ways to expand on the formula. Speaking on that latter album, I was kinda dismissive of it but it might be my favourite Byrds now lol

Amazing Folk Rock Roots.

It's like Beatles Rubber Soul era

Fun folksy rock and roll. Recognized a few of the songs. Worth a listen or two.

Favorite Track: Mr. Tambourine Man

While Roger McGuinn's jangly guitar is clearly a defining feature of the Byrds, their harmonies are on another level. The first two tracks are magic (I might even suggest "Mr. Tamborine Man" rivals "Watchtower" as the most compelling cover of a Dylan tune). I felt the material fell off a bit from the opening, but the sound and import of the album never wavers, and for that it gets the 4 stars. I'm a little put off that there are five Byrds albums on the 1001 list, that seems excessive, but as a chronicle of the band's debut, this is a welcome inclusion.

Psychedelia that’s sweet and harmonic. Always adored this album

After Bob Dylan blurred the lines between folk and rock, the Byrds walked into the space created and defined "folk rock." Appropriate that their first single, and first album's title, was a Dylan cover. The band's other popular single on the album, "All I really Want to Do," is another Dylan cover. The Byrds distinct 12-string guitar leads and layered harmonies made folk rock into a dominant part of pop music of the mid to late 60's. These songs sound of the 60's "hippie counterculture," and all of the diverse music the band has inspired in the decades that followed.

I knew a lot of these songs and both the ones I knew and the others were great. That jangly guitar is so classic to my ears and I love their vocal harmonies. Really groovy 60's vibe to the whole thing and lots of fun to listen to, but only really palatable in small doses for me (i.e. I only listened to the album once through and then was happy to hear something else). Four stars.

This isn't my taste, as a generally don't like folk, it's a little too "pretty" for me. That said, this album is chock full of classics, and it's a lot easier to listen to these guys play these songs than it is to listen to Bob Dylan singing them.

Classic harmonies and guitar sound.

80% Best: Mr. Tambourine Man; I'll Feel a Whole Lot Better; All I Really Want to Do; Don't Doubt Yourself, Babe; Chimes of Freedom Must-Hear? Not quite. It's a solid record and I get why it was so influential, but listen to what it inspired instead.

Thought about 5 but actually a very solid 4 I reckon. Still hearing the influence of some stuff on hear in the 2010s Best track - Bells Of Rhymney

Beatles wannabe