1001 Albums Generator
Bringing It All Back Home by Bob Dylan

Bringing It All Back Home

Bob Dylan

1965
3.63
Rating
29561
Votes
1
4%
2
11%
3
28%
4
34%
5
24%
Distribution
Genres: Rock, Folk Styles: Singer Songwriter, Folk Rock

Reviews (page 7 of 14)

Good lord his voice is like nails on a chalkboard. I’d really like bob Dylan’s songs if he didn’t insist on singing them.

4/5 classic Bob dylan

After a grand trip in outer space with Jason Spaceman, and a escape from synthpop hell, the review writer found themself in crisis again: The air smells like harmonica. Flat singing filled the ear. Without a doubt, the reviewer is in the hell of “lovers of people with a beautiful voice”: deep in the muds of the Bob Dylan swamp. Before the reviewer can put on Subterranean Homesick Alien as a way of coping a sharp guitar riff blasted in from the depths of the swamp. It’s Subterranean Homesick Blues. But the reviewer is trained. The are trained in tolerating and accepting of all type of weird singing voice, so weirdly the most difficult condition of the Dylan swamp is not a hard condition anymore. But then it is the harmonica. The writer probably consider it as the only torture instead of his singing. The harmonica terrain is sparsely spreaded between the easier terrain of singing so they hurried their way on escaping from the wheezing instrument and the good news is that the song is lesser that three minutes As soon as the blues rock loving writer escaped from Subterranean Homesick Blues easily, they entered the relatively peaceful area of She Belongs To Me and Maggie’s Farm. The writer hated the former, but exploring the floras and faunas of the latter give them a really good time although they’re mostly stuck in the deep muds of harmonica. Love Minus Zero is also difficult to navigate for them. But Outlaw Blues is more exciting for them cause the guitar hits hard and the harmonica is almost functioning as the pure background soundscape filling in the sparseness of the swamp. On The Road Again made the air surreal like all other best surrealists of the century whereas the sharp blasts of harmonica made the writer hesitate as a fan of surrealism. The only problem is that it is too short. By the time Bob Dylan’s 115th Dream started the writer is having weird thoughts. They are thinking about how this is vaguely related to their upcoming exam. And their supporting football team’s allegation. Their leg had been submerged in the swamp for too long. The thought disappeared because Dylan messed up. Run. Thought the writer. But soon the swamp is again deep and the mud is again muddy. So they were left in this six minutes of wild hallucination while Dylan droned on and on. The previous experiences of wandering in the swamp now much helped in the best way as they lifted their leg and raced with time through the harmonica and the singing, with the strong rock beat after them. But they have run out of luck: scenery swapped radically as the second half of the record returned to acoustic. “Save me, Liam Gallagher!” The writer shouted without much hesitation as they sensed a figure in front of them: The tambourine man. Any knowledgeable person knows that the best way to counter a thing is using the same thing. But Liam, although being one of the most famous tambourine man in rock and roll, is still living and is a person rather than a god so he won’t help. By the way, Mr. Tambourine man don’t have any fucking tambourine. So it won’t work. But gladly they still managed to escape under the tense and imaginary atmosphere from the Tambourine Man. And everything else after that is almost the same long and tiring walk. As long as the exodus but it’s out the swamp and back into home. Collapsing on their bad after a warm bath, the reviewer happily went to sleep with a rating: 4/5. Might listen Again.

переоценённый мудак

I listened to this twice. I read the background on the album overall and on each song. I followed along listening with a copy of the lyrics. I tried really hard and whilst I think that it did increase my enjoyment of it, I just don't get what all the fuss is about with Bob Dylan.

First two thirds: yeah this is great. Last third: what the fuck is this

There are some good songs in here, but the covers are better. The Bob Dylan voice isn't for me. 2 star on the basis that there are some ok songs in here.

Much preferred the electric first half over the acoustic second Familiarity: 2 – Unknown album Songs I would actively choose to listen to: 1 - None What can I remember the next day?: 1 - None Best song: Outlaw Blues

this is the one, this is a great record. the live '64 philharmonic album and this. Gates of Eden and It's All Over Now are still in my rotation. the time with changing from pure folk to its influence in rock is evident. I don't love all these tracks, but as a whole, what a time to be alive. what would come of this is that era of him being called Judas, and responding by playing it fucking loud. Sub Home Blue is a banger bold open that tells fans and newcomers that this is a new style. his wandering vocals with a biting back beat and full band laid out anyone who wasn't ready. the progressive movement of the time wanted to hold him up as some poster child and he reacted appropriately. anyone who was upset that he didn't continue to parrot the talking points of the current day agenda was stupid. its 4/5 mainly cuz of what it represents more than what i love about the songs. the live in '64 is 100% better and 5/5. looking back, Outlaw Blues is great cuz its a song you wouldn't expect Dylan to be playing at that time. people wanted spoon-fed topics and this doesn't do that. that doesn't make it epic on its own, but its genuine. If You Gotta Go is prob my favorite song of his, and was recorded for this, but it prob didn't work as well as it did acoustic. he gives them half electric, half acoustic, and even that wasn't good enough. the second half is him proving he still got it. not gunna say wherever this led was something i care about or like, but right at this moment, it was the best course of action.

Этот альбом нравится, песни со смыслом, поёт слушабельно, по сравнению с некоторыми другими альбомами.

2.8 not my bag

More bob

4.6 - This album was the first exposure I had to Bob Dylan. Still amazing

I didn't like this. I was bored, the music is not interesting in the slightest. I would have liked to give Bob's words more respect and had a proper listen, but I'm a busy man. The last 2 tracks were my favourite. 2.7/5

love dylan

Seguimos con los discazos. Como pasó con In Rock estoy entre el cuatro y el cinco, y otra vez me voy a desencantar por el 4. Solo porque hay como 7 o 8 discos de Dylan que para mi son 5 estrellas. Este podría ser tal vez el disco que menos me gusta de él, de los que más me gustan de él, si es que eso tiene sentido. Como todo el mundo sabe la primera cara es eléctrica, la segunda acústica. Dylan estaba buscando expandir su paleta desde el disco anterior (Another Side of Bob Dylan), que me gusta bastante menos y acá termina de consolidar esa transición a una paleta nueva de sonidos, letras y sensaciones. Y creo que queda claro en la primera mitad del disco, con una selección de canciones que va para todas partes. Dylan se siente comodísimo haciendo este tipo de canciones. Aquí está mi canción favorita del disco, la clásica Love minus zero/No limit (que es una de esas canciones que le recomendaría a cualquiera que esté buscando adentrarse en la discografía de Dylan: es tan BUENA la melodía que duele). Pero son realmente fantásticas las cinco: Subterranean Homesick Blues es una de esas canciones que pasan una vez en la vida, una canción fantástica que podría ser el símbolo de la contracultura norteamericana de los 60s. Brillantemente poética y surrealista al mismo tiempo que refiere el zeitgeist de la época: palabras como verdades, crítica política, lírica beatnick: todo cantado rápido, sin dejar respiro; Maggie's Farm y Outlaw Blues son dos grandes canciones (especialmente la primera) en las que el maestro se acerca al blues como tal vez nunca antes y nunca después lo haya hecho; completa el primer lado la hermosísima She Belongs to Me y la surrealista Bob Dylan 115th Dream, que tal vez se hace un poco larga y se asemeja un poco a los experimentos líricos de Another Side of Bob Dylan pero, gracias a una mayor velocidad en la ejecución vocal y el acompañamiento musical la hacen mucho más entretenida que las canciones "largas" del otro disco. Quedó sin mencionar On the Road Again, la peor canción del primer lado (¿Y tal vez del disco?), que es afortunadamente breve. El segundo lado tiene solo cuatro canciones. Voy a comenzar diciendo que Mr. Tambourine Man no me gusta mucho (y es, junto Knocking on Heaven's Door el peor "clásico" de Dylan en mi opinión). Este tema y On the Road Again son las que hacen que me termine decantando por el 4. Los otros tres son temazos. El mejor sin dudas es It's Alright Ma (I'm Only Bleeding), una de las mejores canciones de este artista. Mi 2do tema favorito de este disco y merecidísimo clásico. Gates of Eden podría haber estado en Another Time of Bob Dylan. Es una canción que no desentonaría junto a Chimes of Freedom o My Back Pages, al mismo tiempo que es mejor que esas canciones. Y cierra con la bellísima y emotiva It's All Over Now, Baby Blue. Es curioso. Este disco me gusta menos que Highway 61 Revisited y Blonde on Blonde (y varios otros), pero al mismo tiempo, siento que es un disco con más clásicos que todos los otros, con la mayor parte de estas canciones habiendo sido tocada numerosas veces tanto en recitales de la época como en otros conciertos de Bob muy posteriores. Es de esos discos que nos dejan con la sensación de que cada canción es un clásico.

He has good songs but im just not a Bod Dylan kind of person

I think I finally clicked with Bob Dylan while listening to this album today. I own "Bringing it all back home" and I have listened it in the past, but got never attached. But it is a coherent record, interesting to explore musically and lyrically and after listening it twice today I can see it becoming a 5/5 for me in the future. The mixture of Folk Rock and more acousting Folk is very well balanced, although I tend to like the more classic Folk-oriented songs even more. I can see why this is a true classic! Highlights: I especially liked the trio of the last three songs, starting with "Gates of Eden" that creates a great open space with its lyrics. But I also like the fuller, heavier Blues Rock appeal of "Maggie's Farm". Fun Fact: One of the albums of my personal list of "classic German-speaking records" from Christiane Rösinger (and Andreas Spechtl) called "Songs of L. and Hate" does a great reenactment of the well-known "Bringing it all back home" cover. A great recommendation as well!

Some good songs on there

I enjoyed the song about a dream . Wonderful randomness.

It sure is county music.

Still not sure if I GET Dylan, but this wasn't horrible. 2/5

First half isn’t bad if you can get over the Bob Dylan vocals (I have a hard time with that). Back half goes back to more of his more traditional folk sound. I’m out.

Ah Dylan. The song writing is first class but the performance is like nails on a black board. I’ve never got the Dylan hype and so still don’t, maybe I’m not old enough, sure the classics are there but if the songs are more then 3 minutes it becomes like listening to white noise due to his grating nasal tones.

Outstanding on all levels. The perfect seamless transition giant leave album.

I'd like to listen to all the Dylan albums on the list in chronological order and historical context, as it's difficult to fully appreciate his progression as a songwriter or his influence this way. This album has a few classics on it and I generally like the sound, but it's hard to really distinguish it from Blonde on Blonde, which the generator gave me a couple of days ago.

Loved it!!

It's good, geen enkel slecht nummer met een paar absolute Dylan hoogtepunten.

Ik vond het vorige Bob Dylan album echt niks, maar deze vind ik wel lekker swingend! Er zit meer energie in de muziek en in het algemeen vrij aanstekelijk. Nummer dat me is bijgebleven: Bob Dylans 115th dream

Redelijk classic dylan album

I remember seeing the photos from the photoshoot of this album, and I thought it was the coolest thing. I was excited to listen to this album. Overall, it’s solid, but some of the songs are just too similar to me, not only across the album but also across his other albums at the time. Dylan’s work is known for his lyrics, and they definitely shine throughout all his songs. I think my focus is more on the music, so when it’s the same acoustic guitar and harmonica solo routine, the novelty only goes on for so long before it loses my intrigue. Still a lot of standouts on this album.

Great album. I don't know if I would have appreciated it as much if I hadn't seen a complete unknown. "It's alright ma" was shit though.

"Do you know what would make that great song sound even better? A few tuneless blasts on the mouth organ" Said no-one ever.

Very wordy

Actually really enjoyed this!

Bob Dylan’s voice is an acquired taste, and I think I’m still on the fence. I enjoyed this album more than I anticipated, especially the first half of the album/the higher energy bluesy songs. His slower/acoustic songs tend to lean towards a miss for me generally, even if they start strong. Having a full band balances out Dylan’s voice, it became more grating on the acoustic songs, distracting from the lyrics. I’ve always wanted to like Dylan more than I have, while this album has helped I don’t think I’ve been fully convinced.

I’m having a bit of an identity crisis as an indie/punk/hiphop and beats lover allergic to folk who it turns out…likes folk?!! Bob Dylan, in particular?! But you have to give it up for quality. His poetry and songcraft show why he’s considered one of the greats. 5 stars

the 60's were weird and sound bad

damn they let anyone make music back then huh? tho style points for flubbing an intro, restarting it, and keeping the entire thing in the finished song 2/5

This Dylan dude has got some talent, huh? Jokes aside, this is a powerful and genius work of art. What Bob does here is unbelievably good. I can't overrate this sir.

Never been a Dylan fan.

Iconic, blistering from start to finish, I can never come to terms with this album starting with such a high bar and maintaining that standard throughout. You can make a case for each of the songs on the album being one of his best, Bob was on such a hot streak in the mid-60s.

I really liked this one. I really did. Bob Dylan is one of these names you keep hearing but when you're like me: German and stuck on the same 5 bands since 2018 you never actually had a clue who he was or what music he made. Guess that I won't have to pretend anymore because this album was great. It was really fun to listen to and the lyrics were the exact kind of swaggy countryish story telling that I like. I know (due to Wikipedia) that this is sorta different from his usual style of music, but hey everyone has that experimental phase where they write songs about a very longwinded escape from America. I guess it speaks to me being uncultured that "the funny songs" on this album were the most memorable to me, "On the Road Again" and "Bob Dylan's 115th Dream" are by far my favorites. And maybe they aren't funny at all and I'm missing a meaning of critical importance but I suppose I might figure that out on relistens because these definitely went into the listen to again playlist.

This is my second Dylan album, and if my rating from the first is any indication, I am not a Dylan fan. That said, this is my favorite of his works. Where we are now, musically and culturally (in general), I think it’s hard to explain Bob Dylan. It’s like explaining a rotary phone — it’s inconceivable to think of the time before its existence, but so much has happened since its heyday that it’s no longer appreciated.

Awesome album. His lyrical genius really comes through and with the band he stands out as a really good frontman. Love it

Bob Dylan has elevated since the last time I saw him on this challenge (1963's Freewheelin' Bob Dylan) through the use of different instrumentation, this album also feels more conceptual and has some of his most long-lasting songs.

Many songs I recognized I didn't know he sang. He's like an old timey Conor Oberst. Even does a Rage Against the Machine cover. Good album

i don't know, his songwriting is good but the voice and harmonica are so annoying. there are some decent songs like "it's alright, ma (i'm bleeding)" (ironic), but they are not that good at the same time. again, like "it's alright, ma (i'm bleeding)" does not have his annoying voice, but is so repetitive and boring, while others are just hard to listen, for example - "bob dylan's 115th dream" - such awkward intro and the voice is annoying as fuck. 2

Actually fun?

- sehr monoton - wiederholend - wenig melodie - bester song: mr. tambourine man - nervige mundharmonika manchmal

Yup, that sure is a Dylan album.

The lyrics of this song are amazing. It's like listening to poetry. Dylans voice isn't as bad as I thought it was going to be and I enjoyed it much more than I thought. It losses a point because of that damn harmonica.

Second half of the album is best, but it takes so long to get there…

My Dad wasn't the best in the world (nothing physical or anything, don't worry) but he did love Bob Dylan and the Rolling Stones. Thanks Dad.

Not a big fan of Bob Dylan's voice, which made it difficult to enjoy the album. I appreciated the storytelling in his lyricism; it felt like a lot of the songs had a punchy little message to convey.

Mr. Tambourine Man, Play A Song For Me 1001 Albums Generator 91 (08/07/2025) Bob Dylan has gone electric. Bringing It All Back Home is the first Dylan album to feature electric instrumentation and it is split across two distinct sides. The first side is full of folk rock tunes while the second side has classic Dylan solo stuff. Now regarded as one of Bob Dylan's greatest achievements and one of the finest albums in all of history in general, Bringing It All Back Home was actually quite controversial upon release. Folk purists felt that their poster boy was abandoning them and selling out to the rock crowd. It reminds me of the reception Miles Davis would get a couple years later when he fused his jazz with rock sounds. Similar to Davis, Dylan's infusion with rock would end up producing his best albums. With that said, Bringing It All Back Home is one that I had never heard before so I was curious to hear how this journey started. The first song, Subterranean Homesick Blues, is a classic. The vocals sound more like poetry than traditional sung vocals and I really love the energy of this song. The drums, electric guitar, and harmonica are all fantastic. Similarly, Maggie's Farm is really high energy and fun and has a weird harmonic rhythm where the chorus is in blocks of three measures. Love Minus Zero is absolutely beautiful and has the best harmonica on the whole album. Once again, the guitar work here is really fun. Bob Dylan's 115th Dream has a false opening with Bob playing and singing alone before his producer busts out laughing and told him to start again. Then a later take with the whole band is stitched in. This is just a classic long Bob Dylan song with 11 verses of surreal imagery. The back side is not my favorite. I know that around the time of this album's release, the backside was more indicative of what Bob Dylan's "sound" was, but I just find his electric stuff infinitely more entertaining. With that said, Mr. Tambourine Man is an absolute classic for a reason. I read this song as a search for some sort of higher power or spiritual being, but I know that there are lots of different interpretations. Now, I'm not even a Bob Dylan harmonica hater, but Gates Of Eden is honestly a little bit annoying. The single chord blast in the chorus is almost a self-parody. It's Alright Ma is alright but too long for my tastes and the album ends on a bit of a whimper with It's All Over Now, Baby Blue. Bringing It All Back Home is the album that divided folk fans in the mid-60's. After this album would be the infamous 1965 Newport Festival incident, and music would never be the same. With that said, looking at this album with my modern eyes, it's honestly mostly the electric stuff that makes it memorable. 3.5/5, rounded down to a 3 because there are Dylan albums I like a lot more. Favs: Subterranean Homesick Blues Love Minus Zero Mr. Tambourine Man Least Fav: Gates Of Eden

Epic, poetic and mischievous. Fantastic transitional record from folk hero to rock star.

A good blend of electric and acoustic Dylan. The album floats on by with some obvious stand outs. I love a bit of harmonica so love ‘On the Road again’ which stomps along like a railroad tune. This is a solid album but by no means a classic and there are better Dylan albums out there.

For a split second I considered giving this 3* on account of the fact that I like the video of Subterranean Homesick Blues, and think the line “You don’t need a weatherman to know which way the wind blows” might be one of the finest ever written. Hearing “Mr Tambourine Man” in its original construction also highlights what a delightful and beautiful song it is. But none of that changes the fact I just can’t get over the vocal style of Bob Dylan and, no matter how talented I can objectively say he is, I won’t ever enjoy his music or see how others can enjoy it.

There's four Dylan albums on this playlist, and at around 100 albums in, the generator has now given me three of them. I am cursing it. Just to prove I'm consistent, I will once again say I do not like his voice. It's like nails down a chalkboard. Musically, I liked the bluesy rocky bits like Outlaw Blues. I think this maybe the first time I've ever fully paid attention to Mr Tambourine Man and it's way longer than I thought - cutting out the pointless harmonica solo would have made me happier. I think I could potentially enjoy a Dylan album if you got someone else to sing it, but as it is: 2/5

I've never listened to Dylan before so this was new to me. Can't say I disliked it. Would I listen to it again? Yeah, I think I would. There was enough songs here that caught my interest. While I don't dislike his vocals, they are one thing stopping from really liking it.

I can't stand Bob Dylan

Boring as shit. Better than other releases from this time (mainly because he finally chooses to sing on beat) but that doesn't save it from being forgettable slop. Mr. Tambourine Man has to be the dumbest concept of a song ever.

The blend of electric and acoustic is interesting, but Dylan's "poetry" always leaves something to be desired.

BOOOO!!!!!!

Mmmh.....

not 4 me

This album is great. Dylan’s lyrics tell very compelling stories and the music is all great, both electric and acoustic. Even though I have no clue what Subterranean Homesick Blues is about, it works as a great opener. The album also balances faster and slower songs really well. Dylan’s guitar work on the acoustic side is very strong. His voice may not be the greatest, but it works very well for this album, I’d say. 4/5

One of Dylan’s greatest albums. Dylan is my favorite artist of all time so that means a lot. Not only one of his best, but one of the greatest albums of all time.

Classic, early Dylan. Still had that folk thing going where a lot of the songs sound similar but the topics are different. Nothing objectionable, just not something I would listen to often.

I would rather dip my balls in hydrochloric acid than listen to this.

Classic Dylan. There are a few of good more popular songs on here, and most I'd never heard before. His lyrics are amazing. His singing style grates on me. Sometimes singing, sometimes "rapping". Meh. Not a Dylan fan. My rating: 2/5

I listened to this when I was younger and I definitely appreciate it more now

Çok klasik şarkılar var, çok dinlemek lazım ancak öyle hoşuna gider

If I were only going to include one Dylan album on this list (and if I were writing it, I would be greatly tempted to), it would probably be this one. A few of his best-known songs, and a bunch of others which all sound the same: guitars, harmonica, and obscure lyrics. Some people love Dylan, I am not one of them.

The voice is okay for 2 songs, a little grating for 10.

I don't like his voice. It grates on me. Could use more harmonica... Said no one. Ever. 2 stars.

I’ve Always Loved Dylan’s music He’s a legend

I loved Bob Dylan when I was 12 and was I listening to my Mums records. She had three Bob Dylan albums and this was my favourite one. It still is my favourite Bob Dylan album - although I have not really listened to Bob much since I was 13. Subterranean Homesick Blues is a banger and I can still nearly remember all the words. I should listen to more Bob Dylan.

Bringing it all Back Home In Anthology I always disagreed when George says Rubber Soul and Revolver are Part 1 and Part 2 of the same album. As great as Rubber Soul is, Revolver always seemed like a significant leap forward in songwriting eclecticism, sound, scope and vision and the two are very distinct in my mind. This however always felt like Part 1 to Highway 61’s Part 2. Even if it does nod to his previous albums with the acoustic 2nd side, it feels like they could be a double album, particularly as Highway 61 was released only 4(!) months after this. Despite hearing the 3 ‘big’ songs that kick off the first side thousands of times they remain fantastic bits of rock’n’rolled up folk music, the caustic political allusions of SHB and Maggie’s Farm forming a great duo with the romantic and lilting She Belongs to Me squashed in between. And the the remainder of the first side are brilliant too, romantic yearning on the sublime Love Minus Zero and scratching rock’n’roll stomping on Outlaw Blues, pulsing driving bluesiness of On the Road Again and the fantastic image laden Bob Dylan’s 115th Dream. I often think Mr Tambourine Man feels slightly out of time on this album but in a good way. It feels much more like something off The Times or Another Side, but as a collection of internal rhymes and lyrical imagery it is, obviously, superb, surely one of his best no matter how many times you’ve heard it. I think I often overlook Gates of Eden, but it’s another fantastically evocative dream-like set of lyrics, with a slightly foreboding musical feel. It’s All Over Now Baby Blue is of course a classic too, a fantastic melodic bass line and tone and a wearied but emotionally detached lyric. It’s Alright Ma is possibly my favourite Dylan songs, almost satirically Dylan-esque lyrics, full of grim anger and resigned frustration, highlighted by the almost bluegrass-folk guitar and the proto-rapped word filled delivery. As with the version on the Live 66 album, it is amazing how he can hold your attention with just guitar and voice. Fantastic. Of course a straightforward 5. 🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸 Playlist submission: It’s Alright Ma (I’m Only Bleeding)

For a start, it contains two of my all time favourites, with typically fantastic prose: 'She Belongs to Me' and 'Love Minus Zero/No Limit', I detest 'Bob Dylan's 115th Dream' even more than I do 'Talkin' World War III Blues' or 'I Shall Be Free No 10', with their hillbilly twang, 'comedy' about as funny as a Shakespeare comedy - it's actively cringeworthy in places. There's also 'On the Road Again' which is has equally obtuse lyrics about frogs in socks and Mum's in the ice box, and generally, as with all these tracks, a bunch of non-sequiturs around the loosest of narratives. It's a clichéd blues progression which says nothing, surely one of his weakest tracks. Those aside, everywhere else you look is genius at work. Emanating couplets ingrained on the consciousness ("I know that evening's empire has returned into sand"). Sublime.

My Dylan resides here

I find it fascinating that even to this day, people don’t accept that Mr Tamborine Man was written about Len Houmous?! It’s so obvious! 4.0

Awesome! Definitely will have to re-listen to this one to understand some of the songs better. But I loved the language used. Favourites: Mr Tamborine Man and It’s Alright Ma

Not a fan of bob's

Some serious classics but also a little repetitive.

This is the quintessential Bob Dylan that lives in my brain, I expected it to be fairly inaccessible. 60 years span from the recording to my 1st listen, I must say its a pretty impressive work. I cannot imagine wanting to play this regularly, but I may revisit it again.

Waapwaapdaduwaap

Listening to his cadences is incredibly satisfying. So unique and special. Would love to give this 5 stars. But respectfully, I can not enjoy the harmonica.

Mi spiace, il rock classico non fa per me

A great mix of acoustic and electric. It’s Alright Ma is such a good song Gotta go 5.

All about the lyrics. A few truly great songs (Subterranean, Maggie's Farm, Mr. Tambourine Man, Baby Blue) and some really good ones not quite at that level. Must have seemed to be a true breakthrough at the time.

It’s wild to me that this was revolutionary at the time it came out, but that’s probably because of how revolutionary it was. “Mr. Tambourine Man” has some of my favorite Dylan lyrics. The imagery he creates in that song is lush and beautiful. Low 5.

I think Bob Dylan is always ok but he’s just not my style often. 5/10 due to my style preference

I have tried to like Bob for years, decades even, and the older I get and the more I listen to him, the worse he gets. He is NOT a good lyricist, that is the biggest lie ever told in all of music lore. He is not deep, he just says a bunch of bullshit and uses a couple of good descriptive words from time-to-time. His voice is probably the worst of anyone that has ever sold a records at this level, and I just reviewed Smashing Pumpkins for my last album (Billy Corgan is on that list but far away from Boob). Full discloser, folksy harmonica with simple guitar strummin' just does not resonated with me, but there are some exceptions - this aint one of those exceptions. But I thought after reading about this album that the rock and roll would be a good change of pace, but it is just a bad. The music is mediocre at best and topped with his awful vocals and lyrics that are so bad at points it is comical (there is not a BD record that I listen to that at some point I don't laugh out loud, his lyrics and rhymes are so bad and elementary at times). Every time I see a Bob Dylan record on this list or any other list that ranks the best of whatever, I wait for Aston Kutcher to pop out and tell me I have been Punk'd. His garbled mess of word salads that he likes to spew with some seventh grade vocab words while he tries to pretend that he sees all the ills of the world is just as pretentious as it is annoying. I think I still have 4 or 5 more Bob albums to listen to over the next 900 😮‍💨 1.2/10 115/1001

Liked this!!! Not a Dylan head, but I really love his lyrics and how he’ll sometimes let a line run over the pre established number of measures in a verse and kind of take it out of time. Both are very present here and when combined with subject matter and structure they’re used to great effect! Scared I’m becoming a big bob guy. Fav Track: It’s Alright, Ma (I’m Only Bleeding)

One of the better Dylan albums, good mix of electric and acoustic numbers, although the harmonica does get a little old

Bob Dylan writes some entertaining lyrics. The kind that captivates at least my attention. Instrumentally there's not much to say

Better than i thought it would be

Inget som sticker ut för mig men ett överlag helt okej härligt sound och trevligt att dra igenom.

Tambourine Man! Annars sådär.

Ujdzie, ale bez szału. 3/5

Even weird Dylan is still great.

Good. Would listen again

It’s pretty good rock influenced folk, not many stand out moments other than the opening track though

piolon, mas divertido q discos anteriores q esuche de dylan, tendria q fijarme mas las letras pero esta piola

I’ve always had something against Dylan, but damn this is a good record. For the times, for the cultural importance, for the considered lyrics, and for the music that is actually pretty fun - this one scores high for me. You win this round, Bob Dylan.

The best bob dylan album so far on the list. It helped that a lot of these songs were in a complete unknown.

My second favourite album of his. Sits in a really cool transition of his styles between electric blues and classic folk.

Just really can't get into it

Cash >> Dylan

It loses steam in the second half and frankly is carried by the final four acoustic cuts. You spend most of the album looking forward to them.

While I cannot deny his impact and legacy, this did absolutely nothing for me. I didn't dislike it but didn't really like it either.

Damn, I was going into this expecting to be critical, but this is a 5. Subterranean Homesick Blues and It's Alright, Ma are the biggest standouts, but everything else hits too.

let’s get a little silly with it bob…but not too silly cos we still need to decimate people with ‘baby blue’. OK?? fav tracks: bob dylan’s 115th dream; it’s all over now baby blue; subterranean homesick blues; it’s alright ma (i’m only bleeding); outlaw blues

I really enjoyed that. The acoustic second half really spoke to me more than I would’ve expected considering I do like his electric sound and generally gravitate more towards that kind of music. But the lyrics in the second half just caught my attention more — Gates of Eden and It’s Alright, Ma (I’m Only Bleeding) in particular.

Not quite as good as Highway 61 Revisited but still a great album. Has some of Dylan's most well known songs like Mr Tambourine Man, Subterranean Homesick Blues and Maggie's farm. Bob Dylan's 115th Dream and It's Alright Ma (I'm Only Bleeding) are other highlights. I don't think the other tracks are quite up to the standard of Highway 61, but it's still a great album overall.

Tambourine Man>Ma (I'm only Bleeding)>Gates of Eden>It's All Over Now, Baby Blue. That's one side of two albums he recorded in 1965 (Highway 61)

some of it hasn't aged well. it feels a little divided on mood: light hearted stoner tunes, next to self-righteous anthems. But possibly his most consistent

I do not get bob dylan, I have tried but he really does nothing but make me regret owning the ability to hear

Itse asiassa kiva kuunnella läpi, on sopivasti vaihtelua biiseissä (siis niin paljon kuin Dylanin levyllä voi olla). Sanoituksetkin kiinnostaa. Vahva 3,5, ei enempää koska ei saa mua ihan hymyilemään tms. Mukaan kyllä laulamaan.

Joitakin huippubiisejä plus "provokatiivista" formalismia. Lopputulos: raskas kokonaisuus, joka palkitsee aina jollain tapaa. 3,5

It's Bob Dylan, it isn't bad, it's pretty good. Not quite my vibe

Great music from the greatest songwriter

Fuck yeah, this is some of Dylan's best. She Belongs to Me and It's Alright, Ma (I'm Only Bleeding) are my favorites but the entire thing is a masterpiece in songwriting. Every stanza in It's Alright...is incredible as a standalone, but the final lines to sum it all up gives me chills: "And if my thought-dreams could be seen / They’d probably put my head in a guillotine / But it’s alright, Ma, it’s life, and life only".

Don’t like it tbh

Je pense que j'aime pas cette musique pour la même raison que j'aime pas le rap old-school. L'instrumental est peu poussé, très répetitif et mélodiquement parlant le chanté/parlé est pas très intéressant. Peut-être qu'en lisant les paroles je changerais d'avis mais sérieux je suis pas impressioné par cet album supposément légendaire.

Just goes to show you that all throughout history people will bitch about anything just to bitch. Imagine gatekeeping this because he used electricity on side A. Genius is genius and people are allowed to get bored. Favorite tracks: Ma, Dream

I like harmonicas.

Stop in the Name of Love and My Girl topped the charts and Goldfinger, My Fair Lady, and The Sound of Music ruled the box office when this sonic fever dream debuted and altered the trajectory of mankind. Obvious desert island disc.

It changed my mind of Dylan

"While one who sings with his tongue on fire, gargles in the rat race choir, bent out of shape from society's pliers, cares not to come up any higher, but rather get you down in the hole that he's in." Listened to B4? Yes Tracks Already Saved on Spotify: All of them Standout Tracks: All of them God made records from 1964 to 1966 and named himself after a Welshman. (100/100)

Favorite Dylan album yet?!

One of his best.

Bättre än den andra Dylan-skivan (Freewheelin'), men fortfarande inte min tekopp riktigt.

What can I say Bob Dylan is pretty iconic and rightfully so! This is a solid folk rock album that is quintessential Dylan. Sometimes I find that his songs draw on a bit but I feel that is a common theme within folk or rock music if an artist gets in the groove. Some people find his voice to be annoying but he has a very iconic and unique sound in my opinion. I would definitely listen to this album again and I look forward to listening to more albums from Dylan!

I read what seemed to be an offhand comment in another review: “Bob Dylan basically invented lyrics.” Yes, an exaggeration. But it seems to me this is the key idea. Dylan’s influence was enormous — the Beatles, Byrds, Simon & Garfunkel, even Hendrix for goodness sake, so many others — yet it wasn’t because artists imitated his music or style. Some did. But mainly it was the inspiration of lyrics that told stories, protested, painted pictures, revealed, concealed, and were always ABOUT something. An entire generation followed his lead. This album contains classic tracks alongside lighter fare, which is also alongside heavier fare. It’s transitional for Dylan, who was often in transition. But it’s all wonderful and part of a classic, hugely influential arc.

I love this album. For all the fanfare over his electric performance months after this album is released, the work started here. A brilliant musical step forward for Dylan without disregarding or abandoning his early work. Though the newer style tracks come first, the album ends with really strong, spare folk tracks. I mean, he gives you absolutely everything on this album. Except for Maggie's Farm, the transition is almost appears technical or only on paper, yet it is real. The title is spot on. Even among the varied and progressive (for folk fans) style, Bob Dylan seems absolutely at home in the space. He confronts and reflects with ease and with grand musical effect. He is the perfect troubadour and band headliner. Amazingly, this is an appetizer. The big meal is just around the corner out on Highway 61.

A question in your nerves is lit Yet you know there is no answer fit To satisfy, insure you not to quit To keep it in your mind and not forget That it is not he or she or them or it That you belong to

10/10 I don’t mind being shot man but I don’t dig being told about it

I like covers of Bob Dylan songs much more than the originals.

not my favorite from Dylan. felt like it might be an album that’s carried by its lyrics and i don’t really care about lyrics

This is the first time I've listened to a full Dylan album. To call this man a poet is an understatement. The music is phenomenal too. The only thing keeping this from heing a 5/5 is the singing. It is his signature in a way, but it's not really good. 4/5

Это первый раз на моей памяти, когда я, слушая альбом Боба Дилана, вникал в лирикс просто автоматически. Большое событие для меня. Лучшая песня - Mr. Tambourine Man.

Still might like the idea of him more than listening to him but overall solid and happy this album exists.

One of the better Bob albums. Love the electric start and acoustic finish

Great album from Dylan. That’s all I really have to say.

This does everything Highway 61 does, but with more warmth and humor; the gradual transition from rock album to the longer folk songs at the end works so well. I think I could listen to this every day and not get bored of it. "Money doesn't talk, it swears" is a killer line. Like, this album basically invented lyrics.

Such an excellent album. Subterranean Homesick Blues is soooo perfect, but then it has a bunch of other great songs. Also, a supremely cool era of Dylan.

⭐️⭐️⭐️/5. Not my favorite Dylan album, but not bad either. Definitely upbeat and more poppy than some of his others. Last few tracks are more classic folky Dylan and a high point for me!

Brilliant. I mean... Dylan!

great songwriting just not rly my vibe

Folksy storytelling :)

Dylan is an acquired taste. But few artists provide quite the rewards of making the effort to acquire it as Dylan. This album stands out as it is the bridge between folk and electric Dylan, and you can still hear how side one of this record must have had the same impact as early punk rock. It’s got great tunes - both blues rockers and folk - but the added context of how it shaped music make it an essential album IMO.

One of my absolute favourite Dylan albums, firing on all cylinders on this one. Electric, tunes that don’t outstay their welcome, sharp lyrics.

Well, I’m a big Dylan fan so of course this is going to get 5 stars. But really, such a sound if its own. No one sounded like this then or now. Incredible lyrics, catchy rhythmic songs. Who finishes an album with its alright ma and it’s all over now baby blue. That’s insane. 10 stars.

Countryeggiante

This one was pretty enjoyable, but probably a bit forgettable for me. I don't think I'll remember much from this album. 'Mr. Tambourine Man' was good but dragged on for a few minutes too long Standouts Subterranean Homesick Blues Mr. Tambourine Man Gates of Eden 3/5

While undoubtly a transitional record, this is still Dylan at his best.

I did not use a private session for this one. Don't like his voice, his harmonica playing is amateur, but it all works. Maybe it's the lyrics, maybe its a genius who can make the most of his musical short comings.

Bob's music had never really spoke to me so the songs on the album were hit or miss for me. I was a fan of Subterranean Homesick Blues though

Bobby D is the man. A wordsmith and a beast with the guitar and harmonica. Love it. This album is a powerhouse of Dylan hits. That said, though, I probably wouldn't put this on repeat or listen to often. Its a good listen every now and then but not my idea of a perfect album. If you just get around to the hits, you aren't missing much more, musically. Lyrically, you're missing a lot, however. Standouts were "Subterranean Homesick Alien Blues," "Maggie's Farm," "Mr. Tambourine Man," and "It's Alright Ma (I'm Only Bleeding)" all the hits essentially. They're hits for a reason. Dylan is still as socially necessary today as he was in the 60s. This is a great listen any time. The songs lull you into a soft, gentle trance but the lyrics are important and meaningful. I think this is worth 4 stars for sure.

Not my favourite. I want to get into Dylan more but this is not the Dylan I was expecting. Maybe I need more time with it?

great album. IDK what it is with Dylan but sometimes I'm really not into him but this album was strong all the way through.

Back 1/2 very strong

Este disco me ha hecho ver que David Bowie no estaba tan mal realmente. Este es el artista más sobrevalorado de todos los tiempos. Sabía que no me gustaba pero madre mía qué puta bazofia de álbum, han sido los peores cuarenta minutos de mi vida. Es que no entiendo cómo a la gente le gusta esto. Canta fatal osea, no canta. Literalmente habla, y aún por encima, mete sílabas donde le apetece. Si me dieran un euro por cada golpe de voz que está dentro del ritmo de la canción, viviría debajo de un puente y me comería mis mocos a diario. Además las bases no mejoran y mira que fui con mente abierta, pero es que no se puede sacar nada bueno. Son literalmente acordes de campamento en una guitarra acústica y a veces una armónica o algún tipo de instrumento rítmico de fondo. Las 12 o 13 o las canciones que fueran son todas exactamente iguales, es aburridísimo. Es como tener una mosca zumbando en tu oreja todo el rato, es terrible, no hay variación, no hay originalidad, no hay instrumentos nuevos, no hay nada. Hay una canción que dura siete minutos y es todo el puto rato igual. Disfruté más de moonchild y de sus diez minutazos de soniditos que de esta bazofia basura caca pis culo espermatozoide. Es más, preferiría mil veces antes escuchar otra vez el disco Nine Inch Nails, porque realmente ese disco tiene canciones destacables y que tampoco me parecieron horribles, y creo que si lo escuchase otra vez, me gustaría más; mientras que si escuchase este disco otra vez me arrancaría las orejas. Prefería no escuchar nada más nunca a tener que escuchar esto una vez al día por el resto de mi vida. Supuestamente lo que tiene de bueno este chaval son las letras, porque le dieron como un premio o algo así no sé me da un poco igual su puta vida. Si lo único que se te da bien es hacer letras, hazte poeta en vez de músico y nos ahorras el sufrimiento a las personas que no estamos influenciados socialmente porque, seamos realistas, cualquier persona que le ponga más de dos estrellas a este álbum, está completamente corrompida por la opinión del resto o escuchaba esto de pequeña y tiene como algún tipo de cosa sentimental, porque objetivamente es basura inescuchable, es un tío hablando. No entiendo como alguien le puede gustar esto. Sinceramente intento ser objetivo aunque esté tirando mucho hate y mira que estoy llevando este proyecto con una mente muy abierta y estoy disfrutando cosas que nunca creí que escucharía y sacándole lo bueno, pero es que no hay nada que sacar de esto. Es asqueroso, lo he pasado muy mal. La única cosa que puedo destacar, es que la producción es bastante buena para el 65. 0.3/10->0/5 ( 1 pq no se puede dar menos)

Bueno estuvo bien. Podría decir que me gusta bastante bob dylan, me escuché un par de álbumes suyos y tampoco diría que es de los mejores pero ni tan mal. Estaba una versión de Mr Tambourine man, de mis canciones favoritas de él, y una canción llamada "Subterranean homesick blues" que me recuerda a una canción de Radiohead que se llama parecido jeje. Bueno le doy un 3 porque tmpoco me mega apasionó, siento que bob dylan tiene cosas mejores.

A ver supongo q está bien, esq a mi el folk me suena todo igual y pienso q Bob Dylan tiene canciones mucho mejores q cualquiera de este album, pero bueno la vibra está guay supongo y seguro q las letras están genial, esq tampoco me pare mucho a mirarlas.

I’ve always wanted to like Dylan. I guess I just don’t get it.

He can't sing, his harmonica playing is worse, and his live gig last year was one of the worst concerts I've ever seen. But I love Bob Dylan, his song-writing (music and lyrics) and influence on modern music are immense. And I love him partly _because_ of his imperfections. Some real stunners on this album.

I enjoyed the first half of this album more than the second half. Thankfully I enjoy the sound of blues music, otherwise this album may have been a drag. This isn’t one of Dylan’s strongest albums but overall fairly enjoyable. 5.5/10 rounded up to three stars.

Some weird rambling stories but generally very good

Very good, maggie’s farm and baby blue

As dylan goes, pretty good. Better than most of his albums on the list. A touch too long but good

Up the harmonicas

I'm a huge Bob Dylan hater and I think he's the most overrated artist of the last 50+ years but this was surprisingly tolerable. Can't stand the voice though; won't ever understand how anyone likes his music. 5/10

Surprising amount of bangers, unfortunately a lot of filler as well

This sounds more like a b sides/rarities album. Some songs come in like they weren’t meant to be released as there was no real start to the song. Love minus Zero seems like a song that Dylan had the melody for but had no lyrics. You know what though? There’s no fault to that. At least not to me. I’m not even a Dylan fan but this album Ebbs and flows. 115th Dream is another melody without lyrics. To me. It mostly isn’t. That’s the “poet” Dylan I’d be told. I skipped it after 2 minutes. Gates of Eden, same trap. But I will say, at least he incorporated the song title into the song for this rambler. It’s alright ma, same thing. This album had me at first. Such a strong grip. It didn’t make me a Dylan fan but it had me. Then it dropped me. Like the Rock Giant and the Nothing. I slipped out of the such “big strong hands” of Dylan and went back to my world. Side note: Baby Blue is a Dylan song? Damn. I thought it was The Animals. Score one for Bob. Choice cut: It’s all Over Now, Baby Blue

2.5 I feel I've reviewed this album 10 times already. Long story short very early Bob Dylan good. Mid-60s Bob Dylan bad.

If Bob Dylan had tone and could actually sing he would have been the greatest singer of his generation. But, he can't, so we're just blessed with the best song writer and lyricist of the time (and possibly of all time). I think the thing I like the most about Dylan is that I can find meaning in his lyrics at every part of my life, find nostalgia about the parts the used to, and hope in the parts that haven't hit yet.

I don't get the hype. In the context of musical history, even Dylan's history, I understand the impact, what going electric did for Dylan, and how it inspired many others and pushed music forward.... but it's fine. I've never liked Dylan, and then a Dylan-obsessed friend made me hate him. I've attempted discography listens in the past, but the albums selected for this 1001 albums list have given me something to appreciate in Bob Dylan. He doesn't seem so offensive to me, rather, he's just Bob; like a neighbor who lives in my building. I like him just fine, but we don't hang out or anything. Bringing It All Back Home is Bob succeeding at something he's passionate about. I can't say I would choose to put it on, but it's good that it exists for others to enjoy.

I love country, I love Bob Dylans voice, so ... everything is clear :) Nice harmonica sounds.

Baon. Encore Bob Dylan. Ok. C’était plus divertissant que le précédant. Il y avait une chanson que je connaissais déjà (Mr Tambourine Man), mais l’album est bon. Je ne suis pas certain que je réécouterais, par contre.

I enjoyed this album a lot and felt it had some good variety for Dillon.

His voice is still dislikable

Next time we get a Dylan album someone please, please for the love of God shoot me. I just CANT DEAL ANYMORE. I will reiterate: his stupid, whiny, nasally voice is nails on chalkboard for me. ALMOST EVERY SONG HAS A HARMONICA IN IT. WTF DYLAN YOURE ALREADY ANNOYING WHY DOUBLE DOWN??!! And then there’s the lyrics which are just fever dream rambles. Also the fact that the songs get progressively longer on this album really pisses me off. Also listening to this while waiting in line at the DMV just makes it worse. I think I’ve talked myself into giving this a 1 even though it shouldn’t be I’m just so mad at ole Bob right now I don’t care.

nope. voice still gets on my nerves. and why/how is he considered such a great lyricist??? don't get it at all.

These are good songs and some great songs, but Bob Dylan is singing them it loses a star... 3.5.

I always forget how young Dylan was when he made some of these early albums. Truly one of the great songwriters. I know not everyone likes his voice or his way doing things, but I'm a fan. Favorites are Subterranean Homesick Blues, Maggie's Farm, Mr. Tambourine Man, and It's All Over Now Baby Blue.

was a day off on this one, due to birthday and concert stuff going down. This is the best of all the Dylan albums so far. But also, why so many albums by the same artist? There are so many artists that probably got left off this list, and I’ve had 3 Dylan albums in my first 79 (plus multiples of others).

If they keep putting Bob Dylan albums up here I am going to run out of superlatives to use in my reviews. Bringing It All Back Home is a pivotal album for Dylan with the half electric / half acoustic format. It's a lyrical masterpiece with so many quotable lines - even if you only pull them from "It's Alright, Ma (I'm Only Bleeding)" which is just a brilliant song in every way. The fact that it can coexist on the same record with "Mr. Tambourine Man" is just crazy. I get it, some people don't care much for Bob Dylan. If you've read any of my other reviews for this project you can see that I have my own preferences and there is a lot of popular, well rated music that escapes me. If you can just give yourself to the music and the experience and just take it all in, it's astounding though. It's hard to pick out a Dylan record and call it one of the best of all time but that's because he has made so many that qualify.

Still love Bob. Not quite the absolute masterpiece as a couple of his others but still very strong. Like all of the songs and half of them are some of my all time favourites. 4.5/5

I like the music and the lyrics. His voice is just a bit too grating to really enjoy it

Subterranean Homesick Blues is top three Bob Dylan songs

The ever lasting Bob Dylan. One of his early album. A good listening moment.

The voice slightly grating, the tracks slightly too repetitive. Nice production overall, and the lyrics tend to work as well. I have to admit that I am more of a Cohen man. But this is okay.

Some classic songs….unfortunately his voice has never been the most melodic. It’s a 3 from me

I like Bob

So many incredible songs. Terrific album.

Possibly my all time favourite Dylan album. Rough, beautiful, melancholy, surreal and caustic in equal measure. Helps that the tunes are bangers too of course.

Some fantastic songwriting, and I particularly like the first track, but an album of Dylan's voice is always hard for me.

This is a remarkable album in my opinion. There are some truly classic songs on here and the deeper cuts are still strong. The sound is still vital and Dylan’s limited vocals probably never served the music so well as on this album. You can hear echos of music past (blues, Elvis) and yet to come (alt country rock, indie rock, even some punk overtures) throughout the whole album. It’s great on its own but within the context of its cultural impact and timing it’s even more remarkable.

I like Electric Dylan better than Acoustic Dylan.

yeah it's an ok Bob Dylan Album

The string of albums that Dylan had in the early mid 60s was just unbelievable. This being one of the best I just finished watching the movie and just reminds me again of how impactful he was on so many things.

Not a Dylan fan

I just had bob dylan and now there's more. Not as good as the first one

When you write something as good as Mr Tambourine Man, the album has to be amazing.

Pretty good. I like bob Dylan but I don’t listen to him enough. I liked this but I think he has better stuff. Not boring to sit through. A lot just sounds the same and it was pretty repetitive. Not bad though

Never gave this a whole listen. Pretty dang good

Not my favorite Dylan but a lot of good stuff! Stand outs are Mr. Tambourine Man,Love Minus Zero, and Baby Blue. Sometimes I tune out in the long songs but who’s to blame me

Goated stuff

my first bob dylan album! I enjoyed

Forgot the top 1001 albums, this has to be one of the top 10 albums of all time.

not entirely my vibe but i like a few songs. not in love with his voice.

4.7 No critiques of the album, just a couple minor thoughts. She belongs to me is my favorite Dylan song, and the animals do a good cover of baby blue

nothing appropiate to say about this album. couldnt even finish it.

Great album, the list has really introduced Bob Dylan to me and im excited to hear more

probably would have to be a certain folky mood to listen to this but it aint bad at all

good album, standard sounding Bob, some 'famous' tracks.

Ahh, more nostalgia. First Dylan album I was into. Picked up the used CD at Angelo’s in Aurora. I had listened to songs of his here and there, I knew “Like a Rolling Stone” of course, and I really dug the kiss-off “Positively 4th Street” from Greatest Hits Vol. 1. This was the first full album I really absorbed, and as I mentioned in a past review, Bob Dylan is an album artist. This is essentially Dylan completely shedding his skin for the first of many times. “Fuck you, I’m not your Folk Hero, I’m not the voice of your, or anybody’s generation, I don’t need that shit. I didn’t ask for that kind of responsibility. I’m not beholden to your expectations. I’m going this way, and you can follow me on this trip, or fuck right off this train.” I’m paraphrasing, but this is “Maggie’s Farm” and “It’s All Over Now, Baby Blue”. Dylan follows his muse from rambling street corner doom-saying prophecies with “Subterranean Homesick Blues” (that music video? With the cue cards? Fuck yes.), to abstract love poems on “She Belongs to Me” (spoiler: she doesn’t) and “Love Minus Zero, No Limit”, then to the wacky sea-faring drug trip of “Bob Dylan’s 115th Dream”. Then we flip the record. It’s on to “Mr. Tambourine Man”, you know this song. I know it as one of the reasons I’ve had this strange aversion towards the Byrds for lo these many years. It’s a lucky thing that I fell in love with “Sweetheart of the Rodeo” before I heard “The Basement Tapes”. The point is, I don’t really fuck with Bob Dylan covers. His voice and delivery are great, and anyone who says something to the effect of “he’s a great writer, but he can’t sing” is someone who is missing the point. Side 2 continues with Dylan Bringing us Back Home, it’s just him, his harp, and his guitar. Finally, some good old, wait what was that…”upon four-legged forest clouds the cowboy angel rides”? Fuck. Welcome to “Gates of Eden”. These songs quiet down, but this train has not slowed. We’re onto strange, violent, dark biblical imagery. But don’t worry, never fear, “It’s Alright Ma (I’m Only Bleeding)”. ***** It’s my sophomore year of high school, it’s seven-forty-fuck-all AM and I’m sitting in my car in the parking lot of the school, and I’m late for this shitty first period class with a teacher that lost her passion for this profession many years ago… “Darkness at the break of noon Shadows even the silver spoon The handmade blade, the child's balloon Eclipses both the sun and moon To understand you know too soon There is no sense in trying” *Stares into space* oh my god… —10 verses later— “For them that must obey authority That they do not respect in any degree Who despise their jobs, their destinies Speak jealously of them that are free Cultivate their flowers to be Nothing more than something they invest in” *Continues to stare* holy shit… —a couple verses and a chorus later— “Old lady judges watch people in pairs Limited in sex, they dare To push fake morals, insult and stare While money doesn’t talk, it swears Obscenity, who really cares Propaganda, all is phony” *blinks* “My eyes collide head-on with stuffed Graveyards, false gods, I scuff At pettiness which plays so rough Walk upside-down inside handcuffs Kick my legs to crash it off Say okay, I have had enough what else can you show me? And if my thought-dreams could be seen They’d probably put my head in a guillotine But it’s alright, Ma, it’s life, and life only” *Looks down at Discman, starts track over* ***** And Finally, “Yonder stands Your Orphan with his gun”. For some reason this is the line that does it for me on “It’s All Over Now, Baby Blue”. The rest of the lyrics make it plain, things will never be the same again, “it used to sound like that, now it sounds like this”. I just picture Dylan, all wild-eyed, wind blown curly blonde hair holding a gun. He’s an orphan now; the folk scene, the journalists, the bullshit, all dead and gone. This record blew my fucking mind. I wish I had a better way to say this, but it’s the most apt description. I finally got it, this is why people make such a big deal about this guy. See you at the next 10 Dylan reviews, where I’ll have another 5 stars and even more to say.

124 albums in and this is the third Dylan album. I fear he is over-represented on this list. SHB is a classic and great start to the album. I like this album the best of all of his so far, but for the love of my eardrums, why with the harmonica?

Wow can't believe I've never got a Bob Dylan album ever. I was a bit worried from the first song (which I did like) that it would be blues stuff, but the majority feels a lot more alike folk stuff, like Simon and Garfunkel, although this is before most of their hits, so it was likely the other way around inspiration wise. The vocals and personality of the songwriting is what makes it so interesting and probably what captivated people at the time, quite a lot of the pop stuff being released at the time felt quite un-personal, but this doesn't at all (like the bit where he laughs and has to start again, it just feels a lot more real). I really like the weird lyrical style of just having loads of phrases said back to back which rhyme, makes some parts feel like poetry or something. I feel like hearing the Mr. Tambourine man Byrds version first was probably the wrong way round, as the more stripped back instrumentation on this one makes you appreciate the songwriting and lyrics. It just feels really unique. Favourite songs: subterranean homesick blues, she belongs to me, love minus zero, Mr. Tambourine man, gates of Eden, It's alright Ma (I'm only bleeding) Overall around 7/10

Cool record, but definitely not for me.

It’s good, it’s Dylan. There are some great moments on here, it’s Americana baybeeee. Way better than the first half of that live album. 115th dream rules. Definitely disingenuous to write him off but he’s absolutely not what I’m looking for most times. I enjoyed this a lot more than I thought I would though, but still pretty 50/50. High 3.

I think this is my favorite Bob Dylan album that I know about so far (still have 100 more to go). A very digestible album for most listeners and it's well composed (obviously). When I think of Bob Dylan, many of the songs that come to mind are from this album (Subterranean Homesick Blues, She Belongs to Me, Mr. Tambourine Man, It's All Over Now, Baby Blue). Almost a 5.

This was really good, both sides. Just a firehose of lyrics coming at you at all times on this one and I like it even if I have no idea what most of it means. The band was relaxed and fit well with Dylan's nasally voice. This makes me excited for Highway 61 Revisited bc I bet it's more of the side A of this record. Favorite tracks are subterranean homesick blues, on the road again, bob dylans 115th dream, and it's alright ma. strong 4/5 almost into 5/5 territory. I think we could've dropped a verse here and there to tighten some of these up.

A classic, and for good reason

Skimmed, because I know I’m not a fan.

Chronicles (vol. 1) the parallel evolution of two styles Dylan mastered: surreally hilarious blues-rock and prophetic-poetic folk.

Love it. Stone cold classic.

top tracks: (no order) subterranean homesick blues mr tambourine man it's all over now, baby blue

It’s better than the never ending live session album. His voice is a little less obnoxious but it is nevertheless not appealing to me at all.

This is #day292 of my #1001albumsyoumusthearbeforeyoudie challenge, and... yay, another Dylan album. To be precise, my fourth already. And there are three more to go. Compared to Blood On The Tracks, which I found very annoying, though it's kind of considered one of his best efforts, this was mostly all right. Maybe I'm just in a different mood today. Well, at least there's "Subterranean Homesick Blues" and "Mr. Tambourine Man." This is a 3 out of 5. Looking forward to #day293.

Easy 5. Just so good. I can’t believe I never got round to listening to this album in full. I know so many of these songs but hearing them lined up like this one after the other, fucking hell.

Great stuff, classic Dylan.

Excellent

One of his best

I did like this one a lot. Easy to sleep on Dylan (or at least for a guy like me I can’t speak for the rest of you) but he is great. Good lyricism that make you feel great indescribable emotion

I think I liked it a little better than the first Dylan record we got, but it still didn’t really stand out. To be fair, I wasnt listening that closely.

This is kind of fire. The country music sound is cool for Bobby D.

Easy to listen to; easy to get caught up in the lyrics and meanings. Dylan show his voice is a musical instrument, with various tones. The funny songs are just as good as the serious ones here.

I like SHB and Maggie's Farm quite a bit, but his singing just doesn't work well his songs most of the time for me. 3.5*

I love the one where he talk-sings a random stream of consciousness over a maximum of 3 different blues chords. Oh wait that's EVERY song

first time i've really sat with Dylan and loved it. the first half, with its more electic mix, grabbed me. and second half was great folk music. want to spend more time with it all, especially the lyrics. not smart enough for everything he says.

It’s okay. There are a few good songs, but there are a few that really amplify what people criticize Dylan about. He has better albums. 3/5 Might listen again

It had potential but it started to bore me not long after I started. And towards the end his vocals became annoying.

No es mi estilo uwu

demasiado country para mí, siento que estoy estudiando microeconomia en un rancho de misuri mientras vigilo a mis vacas y limpio mi rifle. She belongs to me y Mr. tambourine man han sido mis favs,

Classic!

He’s got an ineffable charm and a knack for great lyrics, so despite the fact that the instrumentals don’t do much for me, I enjoyed this quite a bit.

Not my favourite Dylan, but classic innit

Jebeno remek djelo, jedno od 😃

No more Dylan!

My dad had this! I love that each Dylan album reveals another side to Bob - this one is giggly and witty.

Really great album. I'm not a huge Bob Dylan fan, but this is a great mix of his sound. Half of the song are folk rock with his band, and the other half is more traditional acoustic folk with just him. I really liked this album. 4 out of 5

Enjoyed this - creative and playful with some classic songs

I listened to this whilst doing some housework so wasn't paying full attention and thought I'd give it a four. I had time for another listen, full attention this time, and I thought I'd give it a two. I know Dylan's voice is pretty divisive. Despite finding him somewhat nasally and whiny, I actually quite liked it so that's a positive. The problem is, the tracks themselves repeat FAR too much. A lot of them follow the 'bluesy folk rock guitar, a lot of words, followed by a quick razz on the harmonica' formula which gets dull quickly. 'It's Alright, Ma (I'm Only Bleeding)' is a seven and a half minute track that does not change once. There's far too many words as if Dylan is jamming with himself trying to work out the words of his own song and it definitely goes on far too long. 'Outlaw Blues' is the best track on the "electric side" because it's a faster bluesy track that's a real foot tapper. The best on the "acoustic side" is 'Mr. Tambourine Man' but I also quite enjoyed 'Gates Of Eden' but it also suffers from the 'same thing repeated ad infinitum' like most of the tracks on the record do. I'm sure people connect with this more lyrically and that's fine, but I'm not too interested in learning the lyrics of songs I don't care all that much about. Not a great introduction to Bob Dylan for me. As I said before, it's better as background music when you aren't paying too much attention.

Pretty medium, but I do like tambourine man

Meh, I think if I cared about lyrical content I might connect with this more? Just kind of all runs together as background sound.

Decent but not the best, 2.5/3

Probably the best Dylan album? Yeah

swift, sharp, one of Dylan's many peaks

While I do feel like Dylan is growing on me I do still find his voice to be grating during the full length of an album. Like I’m always on board at first and then I slowly start to get bored of his delivery. That being said just like his other albums I’ve reviewed so far, this album’s strength really is the instrumentation. It’s just so clean and beautiful music. I always wondered how much popular Dylan might be if he had gone the “Burt Bacharach way” and had more guest singers on his albums. For me personally I think that would’ve helped me with giving alittle more variety in sound. But regardless of that “Maggie’s Farm” is probably my favorite Dylan song I’ve heard so far.

wordsmith. recently saw the movie, so it's a little hard to not picture chalamet singing.

This would be the first time I have listened to an entire Dylan album, and it will be the last. I don't get Bob Dylan, I never have and have no interest in trying. I had heard a lot of this before and I managed to get through it, but he isn't my thing.

Interesting album with the split in acoustic/ full band sound. This made for an interesting listen after seeing that aspect touched on in “A complete unknown”. I was mixed on this as a whole. The opening track is among my fav Dylan tunes, and the acoustic rendition of “Mr. Tambourine man” is second to none. But once again swallowing a full album of Bob is a tall task.

Of all the albums by Dylan so far on this exercise, interestingly this one was the easiest to listen to front to back. I really liked the full band feel while also keeping his foot in the acoustic folk side. A better balance than some of his other works.

I think this is maybe the most overlooked Dylan album. Love this transitional period from him and enjoyed how he keeps a foot in each camp on this.

During “It’s Alright, Ma” I couldn’t help thinking about that scene from Happy Gilmore. How about I go eat some hay? I could make things out of clay and lay by the bay. I just may. What do ya say? Jokes aside, pretty awesome what he pulled off in that song. Overall a solid album but still a lot of Bob Dylan at once. 3.5 but just isn’t quite a 4 for me.

Our 4th Dylan album and my views on him remain unchanged: best consumed in short chunks. I find it very challenging to enjoy an entire Dylan album in one sitting. A couple solid songs, but overall this is just an average album IMO. 3.25/5

Is there something more gringo than this album? Problably, I'll see in the future.

In the opening track Bob accidentally reveals the fraud, that a lot of us suspect, by actually writing an interesting SONG and then actually singing its melody without his (trademark, wholly unmusical, and irritating) bends, glissandos, and habit of abandoning the last note of a phrase. And he almost suggests that musicality might actually matter on this record by following that up with She Belongs to Me. But thereafter, he retreats into his fortress of I’m a Poet Who Wants to be Paid as a Songwriter habits. And, as a person who cares about music and is indifferent to song lyrics (brilliant language can stand on its own in print) it makes me disdain him even more. Perfect example of the root of my frustration - the two melodies in Mr. Tamborine Man are off the charts brilliant. But the beauty is suffocated by the need for a seventh fucking verse. (Don’t give me that four verse nonsense. He just realized that putting choruses between all seven was probably too audacious for even him.) Thank God for the Byrds.

Can actually understand him in this one

If there was a single Dylan album I had to pick and delete the rest, this could be it. It's the best of both worlds. Side A has his more rocking electric tracks while side B is just all acoustic folk bona-fides. I do think Side B is stronger by a lot. Side A never gets to the level he'd reach on Highway 66 Revisited later that year but it's still a hell of an album.

Lyrically dense, as always with this guy. Of course it is quite a chore figuring out all the references and illusions that are scattered throughout this. Tantalizing as ever it enhances and butchers the album listening experience. I respect the artistry and poeticism that he bestows but man I just got done listening to Highway 61 Revisited and fuck I need a breather. With all this being said this was still a good listen and perhaps I'll come back to it when I get to. Top 4: Subterranean Homesick Blues, She Belongs To Me, Love Minus Zero, and Mr. Tambourine Man (did not this was covered :P) no bad songs 3.25-3.50/5

02/05/2025 Did not expect this from Mr. Dylan.

Just 👌🏼.

I've never been a big Dylan fan but there's no denying the greatness of this album. I really listened to the lyrics and it was a revelation. I especially love the surrealist poetry of "Bob Dylan's 115th Dream" and "Its Alright Ma (I'm Only Bleeding)" what took me so long?

3.0 - Ok

No wonder people got mad when Dylan "went electric". The first half of this album (the so-called "electric side") is bookended by the great "Subterranean Homesick Blues" and the energetic-but-bizarro "Bob Dylan's 115th Dream", but in between those two songs it's a hard slog. Dylan mostly sticks to repetitive blues structures, and his backing band plays in a ramshackle, rudimentary style that frankly borders on amateurish. Arrangements are nowhere to be found, it's just everybody-playing-all-at-once-all-the-time, reducing everything to featureless mismash. The "acoustic side" (featuring Dylan mostly alone on guitar and harmonica) fares much better. Here he branches out beyond basic blues chords, which gives each song its distinctive stamp. "Gates of Eden" has moments of tension and release, which give the song a dramatic character. "It's Alright, Ma (I'm Only Bleeding)" has a sophisticated decending chord progression at its heart and features some of Dylan's most potent lyrics. An unnecessary bass part intrudes in "It's All Over Now, Baby Blue" but it's not enough to derail a song that serves as a fine album closer.

Gear: Fostex TH610 Artwork: 🐈🚬📸 Production: 🔪👂🩸 Music: 📜🌀🌆 Rating: 🧠🧠🧠(🧠)/5

This is not my preferred era of Bob Dylan but it's certainly where he starts to get very Bob Dylan-y.

it's fine as far as bob dylan goes. perhaps the king of all the artists who i don't like but recognize they were foundational for many of the ones i do

sure is bob dylan

Enjoyable. I'm sure other people have written enough long reviews about this one.