Reviews (page 6 of 9)
Warm music. Great compositions.
Every song is excellent!
It is simply impossible for me to start this album and not be singing "The Saga Begins" by Weird Al. I listened to the first song and then went and listened to Al for two hours. This is not Don's fault but I can't separate myself from that, so - sorry Don. American Pie is an absolutely legendary song, hopefully the rest of the album is as good. Putting your best song first is a bold move. The next few songs were not that exciting, but I am enjoying "Everybody Loves Me, Baby." It was all a little slow for me ultimately. American Pie was easily the best song. It would probably get a 5/10 but American Pie gives it a boost. 6/10
Everyone know American Pie, can’t say I was familiar with any of the other tracks. They’re okay, kind of all sound the same after a while.
God damn singer songwriters.
No thanks, beyond the title track— the songs are almost indistinguishable bog standard folk songs that are not my preference.
Great album with iconic songs
Really hippy
Aside from American Pie and a few highlights the rest of the album is pretty weak. In terms of American singer-songwriters he's not my favourite.
3 stars for one of the best songs of all time; 0 stars for everything else
An opening track most people, including me, like. Its then followed by a bunch of mostly dreck
There's american pie, which I dont mind but i've never loved, then the rest of the album is pretty but kinda boring
Honestly can't say I knew any of the other songs, but it was a great listen. 4.5
More than just American Pie, quite a soothing album and will listen again!
It would be a 5 for just the eponymous song. But the rest of the album I think also stands the test of time.
American Pie is a once in a lifetime song, unfortunately it’s also the first of the album so feels a bit top heavy.
Adorabile
I wouldn't be able to recall all the times that Bye Bye Mrs American Pie was belted out in favorite college bar back in the day, and truth be told I never noticed that the song was that long... guess that is what happens when you are having some drinks with good friends; time flies! And then we add Starry Starry night to the mix, and smiles appear. Misfortunate for the rating that several of the songs seem to be carbon-copies of others though... 4****
Börjar jätte bra men blir sämre därefter. Några helt ok låtar men inget jätte "memorable"
Es ist ein wahres Juwel im Stil von Simon & Garfunkel. Der Evergreen “American Pie” ist zweifellos das Herzstück des Albums und bleibt auch nach all den Jahren ein zeitloser Klassiker. Die harmonischen und melancholischen Songs auf diesem Album schaffen eine einzigartige Atmosphäre, die sowohl nostalgisch als auch berührend ist. Das Album wurde als einheitliches Werk konzipiert, inspiriert von den Konzeptalben der Beatles. McLean wollte mit American Pie eine ähnliche Wirkung erzielen und schuf ein Album, das die gesellschaftlichen Umbrüche und das Gefühl des Verlustes der 1960er Jahre einfängt. Die Widmung des Albums an Buddy Holly („ … the day the music died…“), einen seiner Kindheitshelden, unterstreicht die melancholische Stimmung und die spärlichen Arrangements. Dies zieht sich auch durch „Vincent“ und „Empty Chairs“. Toller Folk-Rock den ich Wiederhören werde.
I once sang American Pie at karaoke and got three rounds of applause. Not because I was any good, but because they kept thinking I was finished. That song really knows how to outstay its welcome. In the end, I just handed back the mic and shuffled awkwardly offstage. Bye bye, miss American Pie
Not a bad album. I think some of this could have been cut, but it was already on the shorter side. 3/5
This album is pretty mid. I think it's one of those albums held up by the title track (which is obviously brilliant). If American Pie wasn't on this song I'd give it a 2.
The title track is a bit of true Americana and Vincent is quite nice. The rest of the album just kind of blends together into the blurred background of Don McClean's masterpiece.
Du bon folk américain sans plus. Seulement la chanson titulaire est mémorable. Loin d'être mauvais mais j'ai l'impression que c'est uniquement pour cette chanson qu'on se souvient de lui et de cet album. 6/10
Pretty good. Except for title track not much stands out
Never before has an album cover suited an album less. I expected bruce springsteen so when I turned it on I was like oh... THIS american pie Great storytelling, pleasing songs even if it's not my usual thing. Walked in the dales today and this was a refreshing album either side
Don is a swell guy, he's a good substitute for Bob Dylan for people who like the cadence, but hate the vocal timbre. Just don't get him started on baked deserts, or he'll sing your ears off for over 8 minutes.
He struck gold with the title song of the album, however the rest of it is nothing special or exciting. Eh it was ok.
Could not stop singing Vincent.
Not much here except the title track. 3.3 stars
Iconic artist of my generation
The title track is the clear star, but I really liked “Crossroads” and never knew that he was the original songwriter of “Vincent” (both NOFX and Josh Groban have great covers). His lyrical style makes the album feel like a collection of short stories. Really interesting stuff.
Come for the pie but stay for the rest of the tunes!
Pretty solid, always loved American Pie
Outside of American Pie the album is a 1.5 - at best. But having one of the best all time singalongs earns it enough to give it a 3.
American Pie was a fluke of a hit. The rest is kind of boring folk music.
The hit, and then pleasant but unmemorable other stuff. He spent much of his career trying to remind people he wrote other songs too.
Boring. Trying to imagine the 70's dude or chick who throws this on the turntable and relaxes on the shag carpet without falling asleep immediately.
Waylon Jennings was hired by Holly to play bass for him on the Winter Dance Party Tour, which began January 23rd, 1959, in Milwaukee. Jennings, 21 at the time, had been in New York City recording sessions produced by Holly, and after taking a train to Chicago, met up with the rest of Holly’s band. Problems first arose when the tour buses hired to transport the group began breaking down. After a show in Clear Lake, Iowa, on February 2nd, Holly decided to charter a plane for himself, guitarist Tommy Allsup and Jennings so they could fly to Fargo, North Dakota, instead of taking the long, frozen bus trip. Richardson, who was suffering from the flu, asked Jennings for his seat on the plane, and Valens asked the same of Allsup. When Jennings told Holly that he was going to take the bus, Holly jokingly told him he hoped the bus broke down, to which Jennings replied, “I hope your ol’ plane crashes.” This story was a better use of space than a review of this ablum.
Some absolute classics on here
Album 480 of 1001 Don McLean - American Pie Rating : 3.5 / 5 I wouldn't be the first person - nor the last - to say this album starts off great with the title track but the rest just can't hold up. It doesn't suck but just doesn't hit too hard. Some tracks I would describe as Paul Simon light. Others made me think of the bank Big Star (hope their album from the list comes soon). I would recommend but don't expect it to rock your world.
Very good folk rock album. Very Dylany songwriting, but that's not really a bad thing. McLean has a great voice.
Beautiful and gentle.
One hit wonder, but some decent sounding ballads with smooth tones throughout
This album earns its place on the list (and its first 2-3 stars) early doors. You can't really argue with American Pie and Vincent as far as exquisite songwriting goes. In the middle it goes a bit earnest singer-songwriter-y - some nice lines and pretty melodies, but it does threaten to descend into blandness. Happily that changes towards the end, with Everybody Loves Me, Baby providing a welcome shot of light-hearted energy and the final 2 tracks exploring more sombre - yet more arresting - lyrical and musical territory. 3.5 / 4
Excelente.
Een album dat je op basis van het titelnummer en het verstilde Vincent al ongeluisterd meteen een 5 geeft. Wat hier verder nog van te zeggen? Eind jaren zestig werd de popmuziek volwassen, in de jaren zeventig was het oogsten. Ook voor de singer-songwriters, die gedeeltelijk uit de folk waren voortgekomen. Makers en publiek waren rijp voor muziek die met aandacht was gemaakt en andere onderwerpen aansneed dan de geijkte. En dan krijg je parels als deze. Er vielen nog wat andere heel mooie nummers te ontdekken op deze plaat (Crossroads, Empty chairs). Ik ga deze vaker draaien. In zijn toelichting bij Vincent voor de Top 2000 à gogo zei Don veel ware woorden over het kunstenaar- (en singersongwriter-)schap. Indrukwekkend: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eTGcyuEU6Wo
American Pie heeft iets bijzonders. Het nummer wordt gepresenteerd als een klein liedje, maar het is eigenlijk een heel catchy-poppy nummer. Het mag duidelijk zijn dat ik niet de eerste ben die dat was opgevallen. Maar het illustreert zo leuk de dunne muzikale lijntjes waarop Don balanceerd. Ook het raten gebeurt vaak met dunne lijntjes. Tussen de vraag of het kwalitatief goed is en de vraag of ik het met plezier luister. Dat lijntje is in dit geval niet zo dun. De kwaliteit is alom aanwezig. Het bovenstaande is maar één voorbeeld van een perfecte balans. Maar het is tegelijk zo saai. Ik houd het gewoon niet vol.
We hebben al best wat singer-songwriters van 50 jaar terug gehad, de ene beter dan de andere. Het balanceert vaak op een dun lijntje van te gedateerd en te saai, naar wonderschoon en iets waar je voor gaat zitten. Voor mij helt deze plaat over naar het laatste. American Pie is een beetje gesaboteerd door Madonna, maar het is natuurlijk een prima verhalend nummer. De echte schoonheid begint voor mij bij het typische top2000-nummer Vincent. Het zijn stille liedjes, met schitterende arrangementen. Zonder de extra akkoorden zou het net wat te weinig zijn, maar juist die extra paar akkoorden geven het zoveel kleur (bij Vincent het stuk met "Now I understand.."). De ene keer begeleidt hij zich op piano, de andere keer op akoestische gitaar. En overal komen die paar extra tierelantijntjes erbij, zoals Mark Knopfler dat later nog meer zou doen, maar nooit op een vervelende overdreven manier. Net op het moment dat je wel genoeg van die zoete liedjes hebt gehoord, gooit ome Don er weer een gezellig (Dylanesque) feestnummer in, om vervolgens gewoon ingetogen te eindigen. Ik vind dit fijn zo op een druilerige vrijdagochtend, in iets wat voor zomer door moet gaan.
It’s a hell of a song, there’s no denying. Don said it all when once asked what the song meant; “It means I don’t have to work anymore.” Damn near a 1 hit wonder though. The rest of the album; ho-hum. But what a wonder! 4 stars for the day the music died.
2 stars for American Pie and Vincent. The rest were guff.
Very energetic beginning, but slows down too much for my taste past the halfway point. 'American Pie', 'Vincent', 'Winterwood' I found (like most people) to be absolutely fantastic songs, and the whole thing ain't too long in any case.
What a great fuckin’ album. Hadn’t listened to whole thing previously.
Two songs do not justify this being on this list. Other than pie and gogh. Easy listening and an easy pass.
The problem when the title tracxk of an album is so HUGE that song sends to detreact from anything else on the long player. In fact, 'Vincent' is almost as big as a song too. And, in an era of singer-songwriters, Mclean managed to vsomehow stand out. In a sense, if you've herd the epic title track you've pretty much heard everything. All the other songs has elements of what is in that all-encompassing opening monolith. Passable stuff but, ultimately, standing on the shoulders of a giant.
Which song gets sung more? American Pie or Sweet Caroline. It doesn’t matter, they are both great. This album starts with a banger and has a couple of other great songs and some mediocre.
American Pie is still a great song, most of the rest of this album is so so at best
Bit of a snoozer for me other than the first track. Will I listen to again: 1%
Kinda mellow and nice
Great Album! 4 stars
The music (besides the title track) reminds me a lot of Simon & Garfunkel. But the poetry seems to be trying to much on some of the songs, like "Sister Fatima" and "The Grave". "Babylon" I liked as a canon, it fit well, and "Til Tomorrow" I could have used another verse of or two. So the album itself is a bit of a hit or miss. Then there's the title track. If you're of a certain age, there's no way you don't know this song. It was everywhere. I have heard a bunch of bands cover it when I was growing up, and honestly I thought tis song was longer. I didn't realize it was (only) 9 minutes, which these days is not a big deal. Back then, to be the single, it's impossible. But as with a lot of other albums, this song overshadows the others. Take it away and the other songs don't stand on their own as much. Some of them are ok, but it's a very different album, and lesser for it. Top tracks: "American Pie," "Vincent," "Til Tomorrow," "Babylon"
Man, the title track is one of the most iconic and beloved folk rock songs of all time. A true classic. But the rest of the album does not reach the same highs. So is it just average or better than that? I think the next three songs Till Tomorrow, Vincent, and Crossroads are also very, very good - beautiful, sad, and great examples of pure folk. McLean's voice fills the ears and his soft acoustic plucking complements his vocals perfectly. Like me, you probably knew the middle one but not the other two. Winterwood reminded me of Jim Croce (one of my favorite folk artists) - a little more upbeat or at least not simply somber - a solid song. Empty Chairs is another good sad song. Everybody Loves Me Baby is probably where it took its big downturn. I just don't care for it and maybe it soured my feelings on the final three songs that followed it - also somber like earlier ones but they just didn't resonate as much. I was fully prepared to give this album a 3 but on my last listen (when I skipped American Pie) I stared to creep up to a 4. Probably 3.5 is what it really deserves.
2.5 besides American pie and Vincent the rest was kinda bland
Great music and lyrics
I love the title track so much that this album is getting a higher rating, but know it’s only from this one song. The rest of the album fell flat for me.
Just ok outside of the title track.
Except for the one song that holds up even on 10,000th listen, I won’t ever listen to these songs again. But, I’ll say it again, I still appreciate this project for forcing me to listen to this much-recommended album.
This is a great record and almost makes a 4 from me. The opening is especially good - Vincent, Crossroads, Winterwood is quite a triple-punch.
This album was beautiful, sad, seamless & soothing all at the same time.
Nice album. Love Vincent and Babylon.
I suppose this is one of the great singer-songwriter albums of the early 1970s. But it's really not my favoured genre, and I found it a bit dull other than the title track.
Good songs, Don McLean sings beautifully.
If you want someone to tug on your feelings....come here.
Followed a reviewer advice. Started at track 4 and then returned to the beginning. It probably worked to a point. Maybe even an extra star. Difficult to ignore the 2 mammoth hits. Bonus for an iconic cover too.
Средне
American pie SLAPS
Folk album containing two magnificient monster pieces of music - American Pie and Vincent - and lots more of mediocre stuff. Not bad by any means, but they aren't nearly as good as the two great ones, for which I'll give this a 3.5/5.
A classic for its time. Listen beyond the two more familiar songs.
American Pie, Vicent. Tranquilo. Con canciones que recuerdan a American Pie y a otras.
blegh
This is definitely in the running for one of the whitest white people albums on this list. As a white person, American pie is obviously great but the rest was just average 70s stuff to me. Sounded like an amalgam of all the 70s rock and folk singers to make a completely indistinguishable album aside from one all timer.
A lovely little album. Obviously a couple of the classic hits are there, not sure it would be as good without those.
The title track is a classic. The rest is the type of Americana folk that I dig. I'll listen to this one again and wonder why I never bought it in a swap meet parking lot 30 years ago.
Strong Folk album with Standouts in American Pie, Vincent, and Empty Chairs.
American Pie // Vincent // Everybody Loves Me, Baby // 3.5/5
I really love the song American Pie. I really do. And the track Everybody Loves Me, Baby was fun and sounded Bob Dylan inspired. The rest, though, is wimpy '70s folk I couldn't get into. So I can't give this more than an average rating overall.
some good folk, a great single
The last couple of songs did not impress me as much as the rest of the songs, but still a great album.
A classic, but didn’t like as a kid
Kind of just the one hit and then not much memorable after that. Great single though.
Can't say that I was blown away by this, but it was just a nice folk album that's easy to listen to in the background.
I listened to this album to death in my 20s. It's hard for me to objectively rate it at this point. I used to love it intensely. But save for Vincent, I don't care to ever hear it again.
If you don't know the title track of this album you must be new to music. Obviously it's one of the most overplayed classics of all-time, but it's overplayed for a reason. Don McLean is a really good songwriter but his music may not be for everyone. Even his faster songs are ballad-leaning so it can be exhausting for fans of faster tempos.
Excellent song writer. A bit too much sentimentality overall, but quite well crafted.
Sounds nice with a hit wonder
My dad had this album on CD when I was a kid, but other than the title track and "Vincent," I've never listened to it. My parents purged their CD collection many years ago, giving everything to my brother and I, but I can't remember if this one made it home with me or him, so I may actually own this album. I remember hearing the title track quite a bit as a kid on classic rock radio, and I seem to remember it making a bit of a comeback when I was a teenager and Weird Al released "The Saga Begins," and I think it made a bit of another comeback in the early aughts, when universities began to more broadly offer history of rock and roll classes. These days, I think people tend to crap on it as a bit of cheap nostalgia, cheapened by boomers who bemoan the state of the modern world. After all, "'remember when' is the lowest form of conversation" according to Tony Soprano. But I don't really see McLean being nostalgic on this song. I think he's mourning a legitimate tragedy, but he knows that even as art and artists come and go, culture moves on and evolves. Even loss and tragedy can shape our world, and while we may wonder about what could have been, others will come along and fill the voids. Personally, I think "American Pie" is still a fantastic song. The overtly obvious symbolism is still fun, and the jangly piano melody is incredibly catchy, making this song a timeless singalong. I was surprised by how much I enjoyed the rest of the album as well. The songwriting was really good, and I loved how the themes of solitude and loneliness were woven throughout the album. The musical arrangements were enjoyable as well, and I thought the piano parts stood out as being some of the best parts. There were plenty of other soft instrumental elements that filled out the sound as well. To top it all off, McLean has a great voice, and his vocals are strong throughout the album. One final note about an individual song: I found "Everybody Loves Me, Baby" to be particularly interesting, especially since McLean's family have said that he was a bit of tyrant as a husband and father. Was this song an admission, or a piece of tone deaf projection? We'll never know, but this song has certainly gotten more interesting in the last several years. I enjoyed this album more than I thought I would, but the first half definitely felt stronger than the second half. The musical arrangements on the second half didn't feel as rich, even though the songwriting didn't drop off much. Still, nothing really blew me away, and I think this album isn't as good as other folk or folk adjacent albums that were coming out around the same time. I don't know that I'd go back to this album, because I'd prefer something by Joni Mitchell or Nick Drake.
Good I guess?
Some really syrupy stuff in here (Vincent is bad), but the more upbeat stuff is fun.
This starts so strong with American Pie, then drops right off a cliff after that.
Standouts: American Pie, Till Tomorrow Very big fan of the song American Pie. I think it tells a good story of the end of an era referencing "the day the music died". I had not heard any of the other songs in the album, but Till Tomorrow was another song that I enjoyed. The rest of the songs were fine lyrically, and I really enjoyed the overall sound of the album.
The title track is great and rightly a classic and worth 5 stars as a song. The rest of the album is vaguely depressing folk singer-songwriter ballads crooned optimistically with spritely string arrangements. Its as if the Mamas and the Poppas were focused on decay and sadness but still put on an upbeat, summery face. The album is therefore a quixotic curio of its time and not really worth listening to.
I’ve always liked Don McLean. His voice is relaxing and his lyrics are thoughtful. Sometimes the execution is a little boring though, which was the case for a few songs on this album. But still, I enjoyed it. Vincent and Empty Chairs are undeniably beautiful songs.
This is the color beige in album form. Although in the most daredevil sections, it does attempt to make you fall asleep through some daring crooning about something or another. Miss American Pie is the most famous track off this album and it has always been grating to my ear. I don't know if it's the sadly saccharine tone and how it goes on about a changing America that has never existed for a lot of us, or maybe it's just the singer's nasal vanilla voice. It was a tough sit through the rest of the album.
merita anche la versione di michael e dwight. però carucciooo non me l'aspettavo <3
Sono molto affezionato a questo album, mi commuovo sempre quando lo ascolto. Nacque tutto in un normale giorno in ufficio, il mio capo stava guardando un catalogo di sedie e improvvisamente vide la donna della sua vita. Fu un colpo di fulmine. Un collega si mise alla ricerca di nome di lei e infine lo trovò, tuttavia si scoprì che era deceduta in un incidente stradale poco tempo prima. Uscimmo dall'ufficio e cantammo insieme American Pie, non dimenticherò mai quel momento. Bye bye, miss American Pie
A livello di sound è il fratello separato alla nascita di John Denver, ma non è una cosa negativa
A giudicare dalla copertina mi aspettavo un album hip hop/urban/rap, e invece… E invece si è rivelato un album folk/rock/indie/americana/singer-songwriter. Ok, accetto e porto a casa. In alcuni punti mi ha ricordato tanti artisti contemporanei dello stesso genere, come i The Decemberists e Iron & Wine, quindi non escludo che abbia avuto una certa influenza in questo filone. Molto carino, dai. Forse sono di parte perché alla fine dei conti mi faccio piacere quasi tutto ciò che rientra in questo genere, ops.
Adorabile
American Pie by Don McLean opens with its timeless title track, a folk-rock epic that captures the spirit of a generation with its poignant lyrics and memorable melody. However, the rest of the album doesn't quite live up to the brilliance of its opener or the iconic cover art, which remains a symbol of its era. While tracks like Vincent showcase McLean's introspective songwriting, they lack the same raw energy and impact as American Pie. Despite this, McLean's craftsmanship and ability to blend folk, rock, and pop influences shine through, influencing generations of musicians. Overall, American Pie holds cultural significance and remains a classic in American music, primarily due to its unforgettable title track. NUMBER OF BANGERS - 4 STAND OUT TRACK - American Pie
Some classic tunes. A few I've not heard before. 4
Lovely melancholy fragile songs.
De helt gode Singer/songwriter, rigtig føler, amerikansk
I can see now why this is a classic
Fantastic live no so live album
Title track is a classic though I admittedly could do with a shorter version. The other tracks range from okay but pretty forgettable to good but not great.
8/10 I didn't expect to like the whole album as much as I did. Good melancholy stuff. 5-30-2024
All downhill after American Pie, but American Pie keeps it at a 3
this album i've certainly heard before, and it's fantastic. it's very emotional, it's very poetic in the sense that it deals with heartfelt tributes and somber... maybe not melancholic lyrics but very very bittersweet and conscious ones about the realities of life. it's heavy to some. but it's great.
It's basically an album of American Pie, which isn't a bad thing.
Kaunista akustista. Yhdessä vaiheessa tää oli kovassa soitossa, vieläkin hyvä vaikka loppu levu ei niin hyvä. Parhaat: American Pie, Vincent
solid entry to the list. couple of tunes we have all heard
Endlich ein Singer/Songwriter Album das mir gefällt.
The title song is iconic and I can see why this album is appealing but heard its too evergreens too many times over the years and always found the rest of the album a bit too boring - has not changed this time.
Lovely songs, among which a couple of classics, delivered with a pleasant voice.
Wasn't bad, but don't think I'd listen to again.
The title track is a classic, and there are a couple of other great songs on here, but overall it's not my genre I'd say - the album is a little too slow paced to hold my interest fully
American Pie is an undisputed classic. Song. Seems a bit of a stretch to put the whole album on this list.
If “American Pie” wasn’t on this album, this record probably wouldn’t be anywhere near this list. I’m actually kind of annoyed by its inclusion.
Not a single bad track on this album!
Really enjoyed it -- he has a great voice and catchy songs
I think American Pie is kind of overrated. This album is alright overall. I like the singer's voice, none of these songs would make it onto a playlist of mine.
If Don McLean’s sole contribution to music was American Pie it would be enough to justify his induction into the HoF. But in point of fact the whole album is good and a perfect reflection of the early 70s and the fading hopes of the 60s. It was of its time but it stands the test of time.
Why is it that so many albums on this list have absolute fucking bangers as the first track and then just limp to the finish. The rest is fine but nothing special. But god damn is American Pie such a good fucking song.
First of all, it's insane to make a 10-song, 36 minute album and have the first song be fully 25% of the album's running time. Second of all, Don McLean is wack as hell. Billy Joel with an acoustic guitar without any of the charm. The only person to have been definitively bested by a Weird Al parody. An abusive piece of shit, too. Extorted his own wife and daughter, essentially. The day his music dies will be a joy.
Did you know Don McLean had other songs besides American Pie? May as well not. this is fucking boring.
Decent album, a little delicate for my taste but very pleasant for Sunday morning coffee
Very solid.
surprisingly lovely album with many good songs overshadowed by the massive hit that American Pie still is.
Just okay. It’s obviously in the list for “American Pie”, but the rest of the album doesn’t really go anywhere. 2/5 Probably won’t listen again
Today we find out if there is more than one song on this album. Our answer: Yes! I don't much care for tracks 2 through 4, but the rest of the album slaps! Lovely simple sound while still being out of the box and lyrical story telling.
The title track is an early entry in the canon of tedious boomer rock self mythologizing. The rest is like a hippy Billy Joel, or a best a saccharine Nick Drake with the dark pathos replaced by bland sentimentality. It's mostly gentle and inert acoustic guitar/piano open mic night crooning and insipid lyrics. The slightly more fleshed out arrangements like on Winterwood (with a shuffling snare, a bit of melodic bass, and some pretty electric piano parts) give it a bit more liveliness.
No thanks
did not expect the rest of this album to be somewhat moody and personal singer songwriter tracks based on what the song "american pie" is and has become. the rest of it was alright.
It's better than a 2 but not as good as a 3
Nostalgie bangers
3.14159265359 but in the imperial system, I don't know.
1971 may be the greatest year for music releases ever and you're bringing me Don McLean? Seriously?
Músicas bem executadas e com um tom de calmaria, algumas mais emocionantes que outras, mas ao mesmo tempo um album completamente “méh”. Dado o nome e capa, sinto que ele fala de questões que sejam mais tocantes ao povo estadunidense, mas sinceramente não prestei atenção em nenhum das letras. Talvez seja por isso que ele ganhou um lugar nessa lista, porque não vejo nenhum outro motivo para incluir ele nos melhores álbuns. Não tenho nenhuma critica a execução do álbum, mas ele não inova em nada e não me marcou de forma alguma.
Portada icónica, canción legendaria. Un disco con muy buenas canciones además de la titular, con coros de nada menos que Pete Seeger, James Taylor, Livingston Taylor y Carly Simon. Vincent y Winterwood son otras canciones imposibles de olvidar (entre Cohen y Elton John). Empty Chairs sirvió de inspiración para componer "Killing Me Softly with His Song" (que le ganó el Grammy al propio American Pie)... Escuche este disco (Everybody loves me, baby) y olvídese de la carrera de Billy Joel... Apuntes para valorar la dimensión de American Pie, para algunos La canción del Siglo XX: Debido a su larga duración (más de 8 munitos) en los antiguos singles de 45 rpm, la canción se dividió en dos partes; una ocupaba la cara A y la otra, la B. La letra escrita en papel se vendió hace unos años por más de 1 millón de dólares. Solo por eso, ya se hizo mítica (al margen de múltiples versiones desde la insulsa de Madonna hasta la descacharrante de Weird Al" Yankovic). Hubo algunos discos mejores, en un excelso 1971, pero por poco (con portadas memorables también): Led Zeppelin - Led Zeppelin IV, Marvin Gaye - What's Going On? David Bowie - Hunky Dory, The Rolling Stones - Sticky Fingers, The Who - Who's Next, Joni Mitchell – Blue, John Lennon – Imagine, T. Rex - Electric Warrior, Sly and the Family Stone - There's a Riot Goin' On, The Allman Brothers Band - At Fillmore East, Nick Drake - Bryter Layter, Can - Tago Mago, Black Sabbath - Master of Reality, Rod Stewart - Every Picture Tells a Story, Carole King - Tapestry, Leonard Cohen - Songs of Love and Hate, Paul and Linda McCartney - Ram, Funkadelic - Maggot Brain Flamin' Groovies - Teenage Head, Faces - A Nod Is As Good As a Wink... to a Blind Horse, The Doors - L.A. Woman, The Beach Boys - Surf's Up RORY GALLAGHER - Deuce, NINA SIMONE - Here comes the sun, IKE & TINA TURNER - Workin' together, BADFINGER - Straight up ,Jethro Tull - Aqualung, Janis Joplin - Pearl, David Crosby - If I Could Only Remember My Name, Pete Dello and Friends - Into your ears, Santana - Santana III Gene Clark - Gene Clark/White Light, Van Morrison - Tupelo Honey Isaac Hayes – Shaft y Black Moses, Nilsson - Nilsson Schmilsson Elton John - Madman Across the Water, Al Green-Al Green Gets Next to You, Kevin Ayers – Whatevershebringswesing, Sixto Rodriguez - Coming From Reality... Este de American Pie está a la altura de cualquiera de ellos.
“Vincent (Van Gogh)” is hands down one of the greatest songs ever written. It resonates with so many genius artists never commercially recognized. Musically beautiful as well. Pie is a cultural anthem and the rest is nothing short of a kumbaya hallelujah.
Gear: Fostex TH610 Artwork: 👍 Mix: unrein bis unangenehm zischende Vocals, nicht vorhandene Dynamik und Begeisterung 👎 Musik: ein unnötig überlanges aber eingängiges \"American Pie\" als Opener zu einem nur unnötigen Album... 🤷♂️ Wertung: 🥧(🥧)/5
I liked this, but the album overall is overshadowed by the two massive hits.
1. american pie - 2 2. tomorrouu - 1 3. vincent - 2 4. crozzroadz - 1 5. uuinter - 1 6. empty chairz - 2 7. lovez me baby - 0 8. fatima - 1 9. the grave - 1.5 10. babylon - 1
poignant and nostalgic
Ha spaccato
He wrote that one song I guess.
McLean's voice is so captivating. Listening to it is like a warm hug after coming in from the rain.
The titular song is just an absolutely brilliant one. Not listened to the full album before but definitely will again; we really enjoyed it.
Odd how the person responsible for one of the most famous songs of all time "fits" in a way with that song. See, American Pie (clearly so well known that the albun is named after that one song) is telling. It is an overlong song and it doesn't pull any punches as to its goal of being a sad song meant to be so. The entire album feels like this and I can't help feel somewhat manipulated, like I am intentionally trying to search up EMO before EMO was a thing... It is never a problem to seek out sad songs, listen to them, write them, perform them... but should I be compelled to go out and buy an album full of them? I can't fault McLean for being great at the one song at a time thing, but unless you are really in the mood, maybe not listen to an entire album at once?
Let's be honest: this is here for the title track. American Pie is a reflection of how American culture has been built in the modern era (post-WWII), with prom and rock n' roll and the war in the Vietnam. Things moved real fast in the '60s so when you stopped to look around in 1970, you'd realize America came out the other end a completely different nation. American Pie is McLean's numerous observations through poetic parable, which he only begins after he explains "the day the music died" in the first verse (the plan crash that killed Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and J. P. Richardson. To be clear, I reject the notion that music "died" with Buddy Holly or even that it was a loss of innocence for a generation, but McLean seems content in his analysis of American culture up to his point in time (1971). Fair enough. The second track, Till Tomorrow, exists in the aftermath of American Pie to the extent that it's basically filler in order to pace out the album to his next single, Vincent. This second single often gets overlooked but it's a frankly beautiful tribute to Vincent Van Gough and the ways in which people are often misunderstood. He interprets so much through Van Gough's art, it's a testament to the tenderness McLean conveys through his music. Much of this album is quite tender, with a couple of notable exceptions. I think the tone that McLean focuses on is one that suites his voice and songwriting style, so it's a welcome artistic choice. There are a few standout tracks but the album doesn't always grab me as much as American Pie does. I guess that's a hard act to follow so I assumed he put it at the top of the tracklist just to get it out of the way. Still, there's other gems in this album that are worth hearing.
Don McLean’s sweet voice, paired with enamoring songwriting makes this concise, 10 song tracklist hit as hard as it has to.
Honestly decently folky. Surprising.
There's no denying that this album's title track is one of the most iconic, cryptic and overall best songs of the 20th century. But that's the unfortunate part about having the first song be far and away the best on an album like American Pie. After 9 minutes, we see diminishing returns. The songs are GOOD, absolutely, but they'er a bit sleepy and repetitive after a while.
One delightful slice in an otherwise doughy, disappointing dessert.
American pie and Vincent being the songs of note.
Day103 - american pie and vincent and masterpieces
All time classic from one of the great singer/songwriters.
A staple of my youth, such that I tired of it's constant play. I was reminded today that Babylon on this album was covered by Manfred Mann later on in the 70s. 4 stars for longevity.
“American pie” is the single that everyone knows, but I particularly enjoyed “The Grave”
Outside of the title track (which I've heard countless times) I don't think I've heard most of the songs on this album more than once or twice before, if at all. There's some good stuff here, but it all has been (rightly, IMO) overshadowed by the iconic first song.
Although some tracks are the most seriously overplayed in history, it actually isn't that bad.
It's that one song I've heard, and a bunch of other nice ones. Calming.
https://youtu.be/8V_hCqO6UQs?si=ZDhCgwdJU3Nb2S_c
Despite having heard the song "American Pie" a zillion times, I'm not sure I've ever heard the rest of the album, so this is great. It's of course hard *not* to think of Don McLean as a one-hit wonder, given the well-deserved immortality of "American Pie", but his other hits on this album don't really compare, at least to me. But then again, I've never really warmed to most of the folk/ballad-style/easy-listening hits that seem to permeate 70s albums. (I did enjoy the sort of Dylanesque "Everybody loves me, baby," though, and I also enjoyed "The Grave".) It's fun to read a little bit about the recording of "American Pie" (the song), and it makes me appreciate the backing band style and execution. And very cool that he (likely) got Pete Seeger, James Taylor, Carly Simon and others for the backup refrain towards the end of the song. It's hard to know the best rating for this album. It's so much like "Alice's Restaurant", where there's just one (great) song that's stood the test of time, and the rest of the album kind of drags that song down in some ways. (Although "American Pie" is *so* much better than "Alice's Restaurant," I know.) So I'll settle for a wishy-washy 3 rating.
hadn't listened to this album in decades--used to check it out from the library when I was a kid. Enjoyed the whole thing, though, Vincent and American Pie are clearly the best of the bunch.
Tough to rate an album that contains a lot of never heard folk ballads along with one of the greatest songs ever written. Tough for anyone to top a masterpiece of storytelling and history for a complete album. However ..this is "mood" music if there ever was...and McLeans voice has a soothing and calm like no other. So...if you are into him and his sound Im sure the whole thing is a treat. Me personally it's not a good fit.
Not an album I’m listening to on the daily but it’s a lovely folk record that became a piece of Americana.
fine. obviously timeless classic song, but the rest was okay.
not bad, not bad. i knew the two singles off of this beforehand, the smash hit title track and 'vincent' both of which i think are great tracks. the rest of the album is a lot more like 'vincent' than 'american pie' - more slow, pensive folk-ish music, as opposed to folk-ish rock. that's not to say that there aren't more rock-y moments on this one, but it definitely is a lot more subdued of an album than the title track would lead you to believe.
Ok!
Classic! Vincent een van de mooiste nummers ooit
Geweldig, houd hiervan, dit is heerlijk. Wel mooi dat hij dit heet gemaakt, en daarna eigelijk alleen maar zeikmuziek heeft uitgebracht, niks meer echt gelukt. En natuurlijk even over Vincent van Gogh zingen doet mijn Nederlandse identiteit te goede
Gelijknamig album aan de beste film ooit gemaakt toen je 12 jaar oud was Ook een klassieker natuurlijk
American Pie and Vincent are great, not so much the rest
The hybrid of folk and rock so typical for early 70’s US rock scene. Obviously the title track is a classic, but in general its dated
meh
jaa, ganz nett aber nicht vom Hocker reissend
No me gusta el folk
american pie (song) is a masterpiece but the rest of the album doesn’t really match up. not necessarily bad.
I remember this album being a big deal back in the day and seem to remember discussing the song American Pie in music class. I've heard the two hits innumerable times but surprisingly never heard the rest of the album until now. McLean's voice and playing made for a pleasant listen and I enjoyed it. A solid 3/5.
The hits really stand out.
Titeltrack blijft prachtig, de rest haalt het er niet bij, maar ook niet slecht
Title track is one of the greats. Giving 4 stars purely on its strength. The rest I honestly could leave out.
Great album. McLean has some great lyrics.
Enjoyed it, relaxing. Definitely my vibe.
8/10. Talented song writing, talented singer. Guitar was soothing but not a creative standout for me.
Ожидал абсолютное дно, но альбом неплохой (э-э, в первую очередь судя по обложке). Очень приятный голос, но при этом будто бы сильный? Для меня заглавная песня не заигранная, послушал с удовольствием. Вижу потенциал на переслушать в определенном настроении. При всем при этом, трепета эта музыка не вызывает. Лучшая песня - Vincent.
Obviously the title track is something, but the rest is pretty mediocre
Kort sag. Hurtigt lyttet. Vild åbner. Resten er glemt igen.
Røv kedeligt
Some great tunes on here
American pie (song) made it not a 1
Why did every song sound like American Pie? Did he even try to make anything else? Also, the Me First and the Gimme Gimmes cover of Vincent is better than the original.
Only knew the two big hits. This guy is an incredible lyricist. Just when I was thinking the music was a bit repetitive he changed it up. Then he hit me with a song called “The Grave” that may be the saddest song I’ve ever heard. Reminded me the album was fun the Vietnam War era. Good listen overall.
Only two uptempo tracks, but otherwise a classic singer songwriter album of that era.
A couple of diamond tracks in a mine of meh.
I guess I knew more of these than I realized. Couldn't hear American Pie, just Heard Weird Al.
Saatana mikä renkutus toi avausraita, ei oikeen jaksanut. Muutenkin jätti kylmäksi. 2/5
Olipas turha levy hyvän avausraidan jälkeen. Tekisi mieli antaa ykkönen, mutta no ehkä avausbiisin takia se on kuitenkin 2/5
Ihan ok piano-folklevy. Avausraitaa on vaikea kuunnella miettimättä Weird Al-parodiaa :D
so much better than i was expecting. strong 7/10
Strong start with the monumental singalong title track, before the album falls into (debatably) an acoustic rut. It's just McLean and his guitar, baby. And you darn better feel emotional and all "countried out", even as you reach the fifth consecutive track with exactly the same texture. (Seriously – Till Tomorrow, Vincent, Crossroads, Winterwood, and Empty Chairs all have such similar feels that it's pretty surprisingly they were clustered so closely together, or indeed all placed on the same album to begin with.) Following this train of thought, it really does feel like Don McLean can only write songs with two textures: the slow, acoustic ballads with little to interest the ear other than lyrics (which are admittedly pretty touching), and the semi-joyous, pessimistic country singalongs (title track and Everybody Loves Me, Baby) In fact, Everybody Loves Me, Baby feels like a thinly veiled adaptation of the verses of American Pie, with similar vocal inflections, instrumentation, chord progression, and melody. Still, it's a pretty strong track. I won't end this review without giving a special shoutout to Babylon, the medieval-sounding closing track. Thick with self-harmonising, the track is a textbook use of canon and is honestly great. Very pretty. The album comes across as a slightly weaker and less varied Cold Spring Harbor (Billy Joel). It's a high 3, but a 3 nonetheless. Key tracks: American Pie, Vincent, Winterwood, Babylon
American Pie (the song) is great, but after Till Tomorrow it just gets uninteresting and most of it doesn’t have a lot to offer. It gets a bit better with the songs at the end (The Grave and Babylon are fun). This was ok, honestly.
Not bad
Disappointed to find that the rest of the album is nowhere near as good as American Pie and Vincent, but those two are good enough to earn this a 4
Toyed with a 4* for this, but not much other than American Pie sticks out. Simpsons: Yes
Took me a while to finish this album, as I couldn't stop playing American Pie on repeat. Ridiculously long track that somehow isn't long enough. What a tune. Rest of the album was a pleasant listen.
America pie is obviously a classic. I usually moan about long songs but because it is telling a story it never gets boring. Also love Vincent. The rest of the album is fine and pleasent to listen to but nothing else grabbed me.
I tried listening to this when it first came up. I found out my niece had passed away whilst listening to Vincent so that song and this album are difficult listens for me. I like American Pie even if I have no idea what he’s chatting about. Obviously Buddy Holly died but how does all the other stuff he’s talking about relate together? I still like it though. Vincent and Crossroads are sad listens but good. I like Everybody Loves Me, Baby. Babylon is a weird listen. I like it a lot but I have to listen to the Boney M version afterwards to resolve it almost. I like the album but it’s a weird one for me.
Forgettable, title track aside
Liked this more than I expected!
Rating: 9.5/10. Perfect/close. Must-listen. Genre-defining. Genre: American Folk Really good.
Pretty good tbh
American Pie American pie is brillant, it really is. Not just the lyrical allusions but a brilliant chorus, joyful exuberant playing and a tender melancholic feels to the words. The line about dancing in the gym is always very evocative to me Till tomorrow. Parts of this feel a lot like a Nick Drake song, particulate the verses and chorus. The middle eight not so much I do love Vincent, even if the lyrics on occasion are a bit on the nose. Lovely meldoy Not keen on crossroads, feels a little bit anodyne and inert. Everybody Loves Me, Baby is a bit unconvincing, not sure it quite works The Grave is very good, although the S&G production doesn’t quite fully land. It’s a good album, Vincent, American Pie and The Grave the obvious standouts, with some lovely melodies, but beyond that a lot of the songs do feel like variations of the same musical idea and the lyrics can be a bit lumpen and heavy handed. Production/sound wise it also feels pretty dated and a bit thin. Somewhere between a 3 and a 4, I’ll go 3, one all time classic song, a couple of great tunes and some nice but ultimately middling songs. ⭐️⭐️⭐️
I'm actually a tad shocked by this record, not only because I thought it would be all American Pie-esque tracks, when it was more so all Vincent-esque tracks, but because I found myself enjoying it pretty thoroughly, even American Pie, in all of its overplayed glory. It has some amazing sleeper hits on here, and even though there is some repeat tones that feel like Don McLean is copying off his own homework, when this recordtries boy does it try, with sweet little tracks aplenty, and even a Bob Dylan-esque track about ¾s of the way in that's pulled off pretty well. Its short and sweet, and I'm just impressed this bargain bin, at every record store in America-of a record is not only good, but I'd argue great.
It’s a shame that American Pie has been played to death. It’s a good song, but I can live a few years without hearing it. Meanwhile, what a pretty voice this man has! Vincent is his other famous song and it is utterly beautiful. Art inspired by art. One of the most ridiculously beautiful songs ever. It’s stupid how beautiful this song is. Can’t get over how pretty his voice is. So easy and gentle and sweet. Like, the music is nice, but his singing is fucking lovely as shit. Did not expect to like anything on this record, but I have been corrected. Don McClean has a great voice. Till Tomorrow, Crossroads, Winterwood, I’m upset at how good these are. Motherfucker. Fully expected to hate this record and I just cannot. It gets prettier and prettier. I normally hate this kind of stuff, but this bitch sings like an angel. The slower, the better. All that’s missing is a soul-crushing version of Oh Danny Boy.
Two iconic songs on this and the rest sounds like pale imitations of them until Babylon which is pretty unique and good!
Don McLean would easily be the best player at your local open mic. By miles even. American Pie is classic for a reason. Vincent is also great and I really enjoyed Winterwood, Sister Fatima, and The Grave. But I find the album to be wildly inconsistent. Empty Chairs should be a nice song on paper, but it's so vague there's just no gut punch to it. Don's finger picking is excellent. I have a ton of little tricks to go practice after this record, but they don't always feel musical. It's noodley folk solos which is interesting in a 'I didn't know that was possible' kind of way, but not in the good ways. All in all, I want Don to pick a lane more. The most interesting songs were the ones were he started to get political (The Grave and pieces of "Everybody Loves Me, Baby) or paints a unique portrait (American Pie, Vincent, Sister Fatima, even Winterwood) but it feels very minimal. Overall, I have the impression of a very talented musician and singer who just doesn't really have a point of view to share.
This was great, this kind of class of classic 70s and 80s songwriters were the exact kind of albums I was trying to force myself to get around to listening to wen I started this. This was great and it's always awesome to see how political music in the states progressed, Everybody Loves Me, Baby instantly went into the regular rotation, great song the still pulls on the melodic stylings of the decades prior but in a completely new context in terms of production and songwriting.
It was good, I’ll revisit this again in the future
It’s ight you know
Så himla bra!!! Älskar att det är en väldigt stor blandning av låtar, både lugna och med snabbt tempo.albumet var även i perfekt längd! Favoritlåt från albumet var SÅKLART American pie 5/5!!!
This album is all over the place. It starts off guns blazing with an all time American classic. Nobody can hate that song, it is the spirit of the American folk rock genre. After that the album feels oddly hungover for a while like it couldn't quite live up to the hype of the first track. I liked some of the slower songs but there was a total lack of energy and enthusiasm about them. Then the album ends with a couple oddly religious and almost monastic songs like Graves and Babylon which I was here for. American Pie weights up the rest of the album for me and it ended strong, but I can't vote it too high for that mid album lull.
American Pie is great but the rest of the album is just okay. “Vincent” other standout track
Liked it quite a bit
A product of a simpler time - even though there was war, poverty, etc...Aside from the two big hits on the album, the rest of the songs were a perfect soundtrack for this era in a folky, non-strident way.
American Pie + Vincent makes it hard for me to deny McLean 5 stars and yet I'm going to hold the line at 4 because the album as a whole experience doesn't appeal to me; in part because "Everybody Loves Me, Baby" hasn't aged well or was never that good to begin with.
Don McLean is known for one song (okay maybe 2) and you know what? That’s okay. American Pie will forever be cemented as one of the greatest ballads ever written and I’m sure that the 3 holy ghosts would agree. Its legacy is universal. I remember being in South Africa and even there people were singing along with our drunken voices. Besides that, this album is criminally overshadowed by its title song. So many great hits in this. 🥇American Pie 🥈Vincent 🥉Winterwood HM: Everybody Loves Me, Baby
An emotional roller coaster of an album that is incredibly moving. Like yeah it’s sad asf but it’s almost so sad it’s.. calming? Everyone talks about American Pie, but this album is full of absolute bangers. Till Tomorrow is my personal favorite, followed closely by Vincent.
This is sad this is so sad I just do not think it leaps past its title song and Vincent. I think the lyrics are what carry this record and I am glad I heard it the top song is enough to be on here. There are glimpses of amazingness here and I love them Crossroads and Everybody Loves Me baby win me over. I think I just wasn't in the mood for slow ballads but I will happily revisit!
1 massive hit and lots of filler
Good god no. Side note, never realised that 'starry starry night' tune was him. another thing to hold against him
Pretty solid
American Pie, Vicent. Tranquilo. Con canciones que recuerdan a American Pie y a otras.
For a prick of a human, this is a pretty great album
Excellent folk/rock album. 5 stars for American Pie and Vincent alone and most of the rest is pretty good as well
mostly bored
Was not expecting to enjoy the rest of the tracks as much as I did but the songwriting and singing is just so pleasant to listen to
RIP Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, J.P. Richardson, and music
How he gonna sing a whole song about Vincent Van Gogh and not mention the ear
Some bangers and a few more that don’t quite do it for me
Standouts American Pie and Vincent are classic. Never heard the rest of the album before - it's really easy to get into and enjoy. After listening many times, I consider it a favorite. 4.5
Me gustó, que gran control tiene con la voz. Me hubiera gustado que las canciones tuvieran estructuras un poco más comerciales.
Title track is an undisputed classic. Wasn't very familiar with his other work, but pleasantly surprised. Good folk-rock, solid lyrics and beautiful voice. (His voice sounds very similar to Rodriguez - and overall style I suppose). 3.5/5
I liked it a lot Qu’usité a few gems that aren’t American pie 3.5
The title track is still a banger, and reminds me of the time of my life when I knew every word to it. The rest of it is good, nothing earth-shattering except The Grave, which is beautifully haunting.
Leuk eerste nummer maar voor de rest slaapverwekkend
My friend opened for Don McLean
So many sentimental songs on this album, he touches on so many emotional notes in a tender way. Sonically not my favorite folky music but still enjoyed. Definitely a historic album
Surprisingly solid record. Everyone knows that title track. The other songs are way more mellow. “The Grave” was absolutely heartbreaking.
la voix du type rend incompréhensible toute note en dessous de 4 .
It was my first time listening to the album in full and it was a pleasant, easy-listening experience. Crossroads was a particularly beautiful piece which I wasn't previously familiar with. Of course the title track and Vincent are the standouts, but as nice as the remaining songs were, I wouldn't rush into a repeat listen... having said that, it's a strong 3/5.
Interesting. From the viewpoint of the listener the character in some of these songs is a real asshole. Some are short and meant to be profound, but there isn’t a thread that really ties them together. Plus a song about Van Gogh - again, meant to be deep like the singer has an understanding the rest of us don’t. Not a bad album altogether but I can’t shake the feeling that this is a painter who ended up writing songs.
Man, what an album for that period in life. It’s an existential masterpiece that draws you into asking questions about yourself and your understanding of others. Plus it has one of mine and 2Pac’s favourite songs of all time on it - Vincent.
Melancholy classic. Good guitar and piano. Solid album for a rainy day.
I need to listen to the rest, but the first half is really nice!
Great singer-songwriter album, with tracks that had become American classics. Worth a listen.
I resent being made to listen to any album where the best song is American Pie by Don McLean
His voice is pleasant enough, but this is just a little too light fm for me. I’d rather listen to Cat Stevens.
I'm not really a fan of folksy singer-songwriter, but Don McLean is winning me over.
Really enjoyed the entire album! Obviously "American Pie" & "Vincent" are among some of the best songs ever written (i.e. never knew that "Vincent" was about Vincent Van Gogh - who knew...), and also thought that "Crossroads" was incredibly well done as well... Decided to go with 3 stars instead of 4, as the top of this album is absolutely exceptional, but it is not as spectacular top-to-bottom...
American at it's best, great piano ballads
This album packs such an emotional punch in a short time. The songs "American Pie," "Vincent," and "Empty Chairs" have been long-time favorites for me, but I genuinely enjoyed listening to every song on this album again.
Outside of the classic American Pie, the remaining songs are quite different. They're slower and much more crafted. Great lyrics, with my personal favorite in "Vincent". For someone who doesn't particularly care of folk, I thought this was done quite well though I did wish it have some more energy to match the opening song. 8/10.
This is my first time listening to this album I can’t believe that American Pie is the hardest rocking song in the bunch by a long shot. The rest of it made me sleepy sad.
Nostalgic, but slow and uninteresting for me.
Mjög ljúf og þægileg plata sem reyndar gleymist furðuhratt miðað við hvað hún er áhlustanleg. Ég þekki Don McLean ekkert sérstaklega, nema þá titillag plötunnar en hann virðist vera bara fínn gaur. Þessa mun ég setja aftur á fóninn.
Brought back memories of the last 1000 times I've heard this.
Surprisingly disappointing Never listened to whole album so when I saw it as Album of the day I was excited but ended up underwhelmed
Interesting album
The title track is deservedly a classic but largely an anomaly style-wise on this album. The majority of the songs are simply arranged and beautifully sad. I felt incredibly drawn to McLean’s voice. Highlights: American Pie, Vincent, The Grave
It’s so hard for me to hear “American Pie” without singing the lyrics to the Weird Al Star Wars parody in my head (where he recounts the full plot of The Phantom Menace). I’ve listened to that song more than I’ve listened to “American Pie.” I’ve even sung it at karaoke. It cracks me up every time. But of course, “American Pie” is an incredible song. The rest of the album is mostly acoustic folk. The only song that even tries to capture some of that same energy is “Everybody Loves Me, Baby.” Sometimes Don McLean sounds like Simon & Garfunkel, sometimes he sounds like Bob Dylan. He’s a good singer and the songs are nice. But “American Pie” towers over everything else and the album seems to be designed this way.
"American Pie" is really the track here, but growing up and playing guitar, I constantly came across suggestions that every guitarist should learn "Vincent" at some point in their lives. "American Pie" is great, "Vincent" is beautiful. I don't think too many of the other tracks stand close to those two though, which makes it hard to rate too high even though those two are so great. There are a few other standouts, like "Empty Chairs" and "Everybody Loves Me, Baby", and I do like the storytelling lyrics. Sometimes it feels like they get a little too literal sometimes, where everything being described is exactly what it is, and there's moments where it's like "oh here's a sad lyric so it has to have a minor chord underneath it". I always think that's kind of corny.
Albumet ofullständigt
duplicate
Viele bekannte Songs dabei
Biggest mismatch between cover art assumptions and reality? American wuss, more like 😅
Vincent & American Pie push it almost to 5 stars
Good in parts but a bit bleh overall
I’m actually not a fan of the title track 🙃. And overall not a fan. It’s not interesting it’s just fine.
For American Pie 3.2
Starts with one of the most famous songs about the death of a hero, and it's just one track of filler before "Vincent", which is a similarly amazing. At just over half an hour, this is a perfect length for the type of album it is. Any longer would have been crass self indulgence. As it stands, it's great with just a bit of filler.
Eu já conhecia a música título e gosto muito dela. O álbum é agradável como um todo, tem diversos tipos de sonoridade e todas as faixas parecem familiares mesmo sendo a primeira vez escutando.
I expected this to be one of those albums with one incredible song and a bunch of filler (cough Tarkus cough), but nope, this is a really solid folk rock album! The title track is the obvious highlight, but even the lesser known songs still hit.
I really like the album.
American pie - a great emotional song.
Part of the soundtrack for the 1970s. Contains the massive hit "American Pie", and the not so massive hit "Vincent".
A real 70s gem
Folky & maudlin pop