Reviews (page 5 of 12)
Not what I expected from the Kinks at all, but I dug it! Fun album.
Another solid album from The Kinks. I really enjoyed this one. The more I get exposed to their stuff I feel like they were a really talented band that just couldn’t keep up with their contemporaries. After all, I’m sure it wasn’t easy to compete with the like of The Beatles, the Stones, Zeppelin, The Who… the list goes on. But definitely a quality album here.
Quite good. Monty Python would describe it a good woody album, not tinny at all
One of my favorite classic rock albums I have heard in a minute. Entirely unpretentious. Just good fun tongue in cheek type songs.
Genuinely enjoyable all the way through. Classic British Invasion pop. Has the later Beatles instrumentals but more grounded lyrics of their early and mid days.
Now this is what I like! The damn-you England rant couched in deceptively upbeat and catchy tunes. I listened twice in relief after so many duds on this generator. Man, they can't sing so well, but they are so distinctive. I keep returning to the Kinks because they keep innovating. Great album.
A great listen, kinks should get more appreciation, enjoyed this more than some Beatles albums.
The sound is a bit old-fashioned and folksy at times, but rythms and the occasional guitar solo keep it interesting. It has a punk edge from its lyrics that have aged surprisingly well.
VICTOOOOORIAAAA riese banger, ahschlüssend isch die allgemeini stossrichtig tendenziell aber eher talwärts gsi das chan aber au mit minere momentane bereits erwähnte vorliebi zu "spuck der is gsicht dütschrap" z'tue ha fun story time: woni d' victoria lola dated han, hani weg de lieder "Victoria" & "Lola" d'theorie ih mim chopf ufgstellt, dass sie en ziitreisendi isch wo id 60er jahr zruggreist isch und es bandmitglied vo the kinks dated hed ui, fun story time isch scho over, recht churz usgfalle trotz uf und ab und trotz de tatsach dass mini lieblingslieder vo dere band nöd uf dem album sind muessi uf mis buchgfühl lose darum gids hüt wiedermal 4 abgleckti zeche vom noah "nettester boy" hertzog fun joke time: wenn öpper das album schlecht bewertet, isch das denn kink shaming? ui, fun joke time isch scho over, no vill chürzer usgfalle
What self-respecting Britpop fan would I be if I didn't fuck with The Kinks? Perfect band, perfect songwriting, invented music. Not my favorite Kinks album but still great
surprisingly cool and modern sounding
I bought this album at time of release. I remember that I had earlier bought Tommy by The Who and was fascinated by concept albums. It was because of that fact that I bought it rather than hearing many tracks prior. Comparing it with Tommy is unfair as that was a much more polished album and destined for the mega status it later got. Arthur never really got the same appreciation even though there were some good songs on it. A very British sounding album as was most of The Kinks output was. Haven’t played the album in ages so it was good to hear it and become acquainted again. It is very much of its time which is (can I believe it?) 55 years ago but despite its age has stood test of time. Special mention for the album cover which I still have. A gatefold with a Queen Victoria cardboard insert with lyrics. Very nice packaging and one of the first of its type. 4/5 20/1/25
My first Kinks album. It's a good one.
Really nice
I'm going to have a proper Kinks phase one of these days I tells you.
All the classic upbeat whimsy of The Kinks, but somehow amplified more powerfully and in multitude of styles (often within songs) in the middle section. Lots of invention and style. For me this could have been a contender to Ogden’s in the UK 60s psych concept album stakes, but came up short.
some very good songs, will listen for a second time defo
Colour me surprised, for up until about halfway through this, I thought it was just going to be run-of-the-mill 1960s/70s Britishness. And for the most part, it is. But crucially, it’s not just that. It’s fantastically produced, whimsical, witty, et cetera. It’s all you could hope for from a ‘rock opera’. And here I was expecting some over-the-top Queen-esque sludge. Certain tracks are that sort of silly British ditty that I’m not sure I like (see She’s Bought a Hat Like Princess Marina), but quite a fair few of them are genuinely explorative and brilliant (see Australia and Shangri-La). So, it’s as I was expecting in that it’s a ‘fun’ album. But it’s not as I was expecting as it’s an enjoyable ‘fun’ album.
this is my kink it makes me proud as an English citizen, and then the album ends and i remembered that I'm NOT BRITISH at all. i missed the days that I spend in the UK. 4/5
British psychedelia tended to look back, toward childhood, or, like here, someone else's childhood. The guitar work is fantastic, but I'm not a fan of the brass. Still, I can see how the Kinks might be considered "the foremost band" as one of my friends claimed. Still, Beatles and Stones and Floyd before this. But they desperately deserve to have a landmark place in the history of rock. "Austailia" and "Shangri-la" are two of the greatest songs of the 60s.
Kinky fun
could i write poetry to this? y
I have a love/hate relationship with Britain (particularly England) which I think is mirrored in the content of this album. I really liked this and wish I’d had the chance to listen to it a few more times. I feel like calling it a concept album is kinda facile. Like, is really a concept album about the human condition, right?
I'm a sucker for The Kinks, and I loved listening to this. Interesting songs with distinctive lyrics. Solid 4 stars.
kende er niet zoveel van... maar alles toch van Kinks-allooi, dus was zekers niet slecht
Not all of these older albums hold up in my opinion, but I really liked the sound of this one
I do love a bit of Kinks - I'm not as familiar with this album as some of their others, so this isn't quite a 5 yet, but on two play throughs it was definitely growing on me a lot, so more listens would probably bump it up. Seems very coherent, concept-album-wise. Fave tracks - "Yes Sir, No Sir", "Shangri La" and of course, with the Kinks you also have to look at what non-album singles they were putting out at the same time. "Plastic Man"! That's a tune too!
This is a fun concept album with a few real bangers on it. I didn't really know this album before, aside from the hits, but it further reinforces my love for the Kinks.
What? My kink? Feet. What’s up with british history tho?
Enjoyed this album. I think the Kinks are great. This has mixed energy - something for everyone, some recognisable songs too. I think it's good
the very likely peak of ray davies as a songwriter, yet also where he chafes the most against the limits of his worldview. the fact that he DOES have a distinct and constantly articulated worldview is one of the most interesting things about the kinks, certainly sets them apart from their contemporaries, and i find a lot of resonance with it on village green because we suffer from many of the same anxieties and unreasonable idealizations. but his metaphorical tale of the british empire where the ultimate tragedy is its eventual slumping over into pathetic powerlessness...where the victims are the unfullfilled middle class surrounded by wealth that doesnt make them happy...its a little fundamentally wrongheaded lol. thats a p big complaint but its the only main one i can raise...while its deffo not a hard rock album or anything, the kinks shed their current (lovely) Wussy Pop Style to something that feels more connected to their earlier experiments in heaviness, a bunch of propulsive and extremely melodic pop rock songs with a powerfully anchoring guitar sound...lots of convincing Physicality to the sound here. and for whatever my hangups with the concept, its constructed extremely well...not a hyper-linear rock opera, but a collection of meaningful and illustrative moments arranged with real dramatic momentum. ill repeat what i said about village green ages ago...thats the more fundamentally likeable project for me, but i might prefer this one song-for-song
I came into this album already really liking what I’ve heard of The Kinks. They were a favorite band of my dad’s and I loved individual songs like “State of Confusion” and “Come Dancing.” But I’d never sat and listened through an entire album of theirs. The further I got into this album, the more I became convinced that The Kinks should have been as big as, if not bigger than, The Beatles. They have a penchant for unusual but catchy melodies, used a lot of experimental techniques (never forget that Dave Davies essentially invented distortion), and they have that distinctive British flavor (flavour?) that I really enjoy in music. “Victoria” was one of the strongest standout tracks for me and one hell of an album opener. It’s horrendously catchy and tended to get stuck in my head the entire day after I listened to it. The harpsichord-driven “She’s Bought a Hat…” was a really fun and quirky track, and “Young and Innocent Days” came with a kind of warm, somber nostalgia due to the lyrical content, but the real star, to me, was the epic “Australia.” Hearing “Australia” was what it took to launch Dave Davies into my top five guitarists of all time. I’m in love with the tone of his guitar on this track, and his lengthy solo goes way harder than anything else I’ve heard in a while. The other songs were great in their own ways, and no two tracks sounded similar or interchangeable. Every track had its own unique sound to it, and while I do value a little bit of cohesiveness in albums, as a musician myself I know how hard it is to make each song stand out on their own. The Kinks succeeded with flying colors at just that. Honestly, I’m tempted to give this album five stars for that solo alone (and for the infectious “Victoria”), but this is only my second day and I don’t want to be too generous with my five star ratings until I’ve heard some other albums for comparison’s sake. So Arthur is a solid four for me at this time, but it may just rank higher in the end. Overall though, I was very impressed. The Davies bros did it again.
I recently described Beck's album Sea Change as the soundtrack to a Paul Thomas Anderson movie that doesn't exist as a way of describing its emotional arc. Arthur (Or the Decline and Fall of the British Empire), on the other hand, quite literally *is* a soundtrack to a movie that doesn't exist. As the Kinks' ban from the United States wore on - this was their last album before they regularly toured the US again - Ray Davies collaborated with a British filmmaker on a story, and this album was to roughly mirror that production. Only, to paraphrase Jonathan Frakes: It never happened. What was left was an intensely personal album that lacked the shield the movie would have provided. It's a concept album, about the Davies family, growing up in England during the war, conflictual feelings about national pride, and loss. It's a really strong set of songs, though I could live without Princess Marina.
Excellent album. Love it.
Kinks are fun as hell. Really good enerygy.
My first time listening this band. I find their quirk intriguing.
I really like this album. I'm a big Kinks fan, seeing how much they influenced later music and rock music in general. So underrated for their contributions. 4/5
The Kinks go experimental and prog rock here. Very into it.
Stabilt! Några riktigt bra låtar och några riktigt snygga gitarrljud!
7/10…guter britischer Pop/Rpck
Enjoyed that! Very English
Not the best by them, but a few solid tracks and I thoroughly enjoyed the whole album. Would have liked a but more range, but The Kinks are never a disappointment. 4/5
Cool music
Rating: 7 Best Song: Brainwashed
Even though all the childlike wonder and whimsy in the tunes gets tiresome sometimes, I cannot deny that it also is among the most consistently ?cute? 60s concept albums.
A very intriguing album and another I can’t believe is not more widely known and appreciated! I had certainly never heard it before. Ray Davis is a song writin colossos.
Solid, well aged album. 3.5 stars but extra points for the consistency throughout all songs.
Mr Churchill says is. Great track
To me, when The Kinks got a little weird and quirky is when they excelled the most. Their run at the end of the 60s and into the early 70s is what cemented them as one of pop rock’s most essential and influential bands. The Kinks Are the Village Green Preservation Society was no doubt surprisingly much better than I imagined. But I won’t pretend it was the greatest thing I’d ever heard. Ray Davies and his band mates were definitely a talented group of people though. Now, after hearing this album, I think my opinion of this band has actually grown considerably. I didn’t anticipate liking this so much. But from an objective standpoint, some of these songs are of the best that the decade has to offer. They were in their prime here, and like I mentioned at the beginning, the creative juices seemed to really be flowing. I feel like Australia is potentially an early example of blues rock, and it’s killer. This is also probably one of the earliest rock operas. But whatever concept or interpretation they were trying to push with this doesn’t come through all that clearly. Overall, I don’t know if I would say this is better than the album that preceded it, but I think I enjoy it more. Rating: 7/10
Quite good
Pretty fun and witty album
I’ve always wanted to dig a little deeper into these kookie Brits’ back catalog. They could be one of the most under rated bands in history!
For the most part, I thought this was a pretty good album with some cool standouts like “Victoria” and “Australia”. Then I heard Shangri-La. Since I first heard the album, I have probably played Shangri-La 20 times. It is simply one of the greatest songs I have ever heard. I’m so happy I heard it.
Giving very much Beatles vibes but I think that’s just the 60s vibe of it. Seems to be an ironic take on war and revolution and the oppression and death of it all based on the lyrics. The music and rhythm of it all is amazing as well. I like that it’s not exactly the same as everything else at the time but it’s still similar enough that you can call it catchy and you can dance to it easily. So far Drivin’ is the best song imo. Overall a great album and i will most likely listen to a lot of the songs again. Really love the vibe and it starts and ends amazingly.
A treat
I’m so glad I finally listened to the Kinks. I must have had an aural hallucination when I was younger because I always though of slightly out of tune, aggressively strummed chords and have just assumed they were annoyingly overhyped for as long as I can remember. It turns out I’m just an asshole and that these dudes are pretty groovy.
Did not sound much like the Kinks, hence I enjoyed this album more than normal. The guitar and drums were good. I enjoyed the British history lessons and perspective on the album.
Nice little album. The Kinks are another one of those really famous and influential bands that I have never actually listened to until now. Quite liked it. Liked the lyrics a lot loved the critiques and the way Ray Davies presented them. Their overall sound on this album was also very enjoyable. Would not have guessed that this was made in '69 sounds much more clean cut and modern than that.
Fun album. Didn't blow me away or anything, but definitely enjoyable. Could see this going up with more listens probably.
The Kinks was in de jaren 60 best wel een grote band volgens mij, die zich kon meten met de Beatles en de Stones. Maar (ook) hier beklijft bij mij het gevoel dat het toch meer huismerk Beatles is, dan een eigen geluid heeft. Ik ken het hele oeuvre van the Kinks niet, maar ik ken wel de greatest hits. En bij het vorige album schreef ik ook al dat je van the Kinks beter de greatest hits kan luisteren. Anders is het geheel te gezapig. Ik ken de losse albums van the Kinks niet goed genoeg om te oordelen of ze wel een album hebben, dat helemaal top is. Of ze een eigen Sgt Peppers hebben. Op dit album staan in ieder geval wel meerdere nummers die ik ken en die dus de greatest hits gehaald hebben. Daardoor vind ik het wel vermakelijk genoeg om 3,5 ster te geven. En laat ik het afronden naar een 4, want ik ben al zuur genoeg geweest de afgelopen 2 albums :-)
It is with great regret that (even with this being the second Kinks album this week) i say i like and appreciate this album. While there are too many like this record on the 1001 list, this one at least knows what it’s doing. There’s plenty of character, fun storytelling, catchy melodies. These guys really hate the idea of war, as did most rock bands in the late 60’s. Highlights on here for me are Yes Sir, No Sir as well as Shangri-La
bit repetitive near the end but overall really solid
I had a great time listening to this album. I thought the tracks were fun and upbeat, and there was definitely a critique of society in the lyrics. I will have to give this one another go around at some point.
Hovering between 3 and 4 stars for this one. Very English and quaint, a gentle rock opera. Has the quiet desperation of middle class English life down to a tee, but it's not mean-spirited, but very sympathetic. Musically sounds a bit like early Pink Floyd, with later Pink Floyd sounds from The Wall in there too. 4 stars, but only just.
I love Ray Davies as a composer and this album confirms this feeling. I had only heard Victoria before, so it's nice for me to a hear a new Kinks album. I'll probably have to listen a few more times to actually get it, but I do like the concept here. Liked Songs Added: Victoria
Could be 4.5 stars
I like this, simple and catchy. The album had stereo and mono recordings intermixed seemingly randomly and I didn't realize I was relistening to parts.
Ik las dat dit album in eerste instantie moeilijk voeten in de aarde kreeg buiten de UK, en als je de op en top Brits historische thematiek bekijkt valt dat voor te stellen. En ook hun muziekstijl, die je voorafgaand aan dit album kon omschrijven als quirky, vluchtig en enorm catchy, maakt op deze plaat een flinke u-turn. In veel nummers neemt Sir Ray je mee in een verhaal, vaak met betrekking tot post-war Britain en het mentale concept 'Engelsman zijn' in die wereld. Het zijn daardoor langere songs dan waar ze bekend om staan. En alhoewel dát de vluchtige stijl is waarin alle charme zit van The Kinks, en waar mijn liefde voor de band vandaan komt, is dit wellicht toch mijn favoriete totaalwerk van ze. Het zijn toch die verhaallijnen, en de variatie daarin, die ''Arthur'' als conceptalbum gewoon een hele vermakelijke maakt. Ondanks dat sommige nummers wat langer duren, zijn de versnellingen als in 'Mr. Churchill Says' en de jams als in 'Australia' van die elementen die het geen moment saai maken. Daarnaast is het onmogelijk voor Ray Davies om een album te schrijven waarin geen quirky en catchy momenten te vinden zijn, met 'Victoria' en 'Drivin' als goede voorbeelden. De kracht van dit album ligt echter wel echt in de storywriting. 'Some Mother's Son' is een waanzinnig protestlied, hartverscheurend bijna. En 'Shangri-La' is één van de beste Kinks-songs wat mij betreft, en is thematisch ook nog steeds relevant. Het einde van het album is wat minder boeiend, waardoor hij de ultieme 5 sterren-score net misloopt. 8,5/10 Highlights: Victoria Some Mother's Son Shangri-La Mr. Churchill Says
Het beste gebundelde werk van the Kinks dat ik tot nu toe heb gehoord! Op een aantal aspecten kan dit concept-album bijna tippen aan Sgt. Peppers. Zeker nummers als Yes Sir, No Sir zouden daar zo op passen, mede door het gitaar geluid en het gebruik van blazers. Songs als Drivin' zijn echt lekker edgy en elk nummer tovert een glimlach op je gezicht. Het tempo is hoog en er gebeurd veel in de nummers. Sommige nummers evolueren heerlijk en brengen daarmee het gevoel over van het concept van dit album. Zoals bijvoorbeeld Australia, wat eindigt met een minutenlange chaotische solo met blazers. Shangri-La bouwt ook geleidelijk op tot een heerlijke hardrock-track, met ook hier een speciale shoutout naar het gebruik van blazers. Echt een hoogtepunt. Arthur gaat rechtstreeks op het LP-verlanglijstje! 8,5/10 Highlights Yes Sir, No Sir Australia Shangri-La Mr. Churchill Says
Kinky
Liked the album. Was pleasantly surprised by parts of it. The political commentary doesn’t take itself too seriously and is tasteful. Not too much to say besides that. Standouts: Some Mother’s Son, Drivin’, Shangri-La, Young and Innocent Days, and Nothing to Say.
I didn’t know as many songs on this particular album of theirs, but great Kinks vibe either way.
I enjoyed it much more than I thought I would, victoria is a gem
This is the first Kinks album I've heard where they actually tried, and whaddaya know it's actually good
have you ever seen the end credits to a movie and heard music wells thats what this album author reminds me of because when their is a good ending to the movie their always good music like this that kinda sounds like an ending to a movie his voice also gives the feel that its peaceful and how the instruments are also peaceful this album is good and i would recommend you listen to this because its nice and peaceful
The Kinks are underrated. This album has none of the famous tracks and yet every track is strong and I suspect deeply influential to following bands, and modern indie rock. Outside of the 60’s this album wouldn’t feel out of place releasing since the turn of the millennium, timeless quality.
I like the kinks!!
Really enjoyable album
Honestly this era of the Kinks is a slam dunk. While the Beatles and the Stones put out great records in 1969 - here comes Ray Davies with weird concept albums that are just amazing and ahead of their time. For my money Victoria is one of the best first tracks.
Definately different from their earlier albums but still great. The lyrics are clever and give insight into British history. Songs are nice and well written. Just another great Kinks album.
Definitely more interesting than some of the 60s rock on this list. I think it made more of an impression on me than any other Kinks record has as well. Some basic critique of I guess English culture at the time but the songs that accompany this critique is a pretty good listen. 7/10
4.5 stars
4.5
What if The Beatles but ska? Honestly, I feel like the more robust horn section adds something good here. Brainwashed and Australia both kick ass.
Really loved this! I had never heard it before and was pleasantly surprised.
I’ve always liked the Kinks because sometimes the Beatles are too “pop,” but Frank Zappa is too weird. They live perfectly in the spot in-between. Ok, well, maybe more towards the Beatles end of that spectrum. But you take my point.
Very good! Some good songs are Arthur and Victoria. Lyrics supposed to be good too but I didn't really listen too hard. Overall very listenable but not enough to save songs specifically.
It took at least 5 listens to get there, but this is a really good record. Favourite tracks: Victoria, Yes Sir, No Sir, Some Mother's Son, Australia.
This captures the odd Empire facing, class obsessed, Britain of the late 60s and 70s brilliantly.
Fun, if a bit goofy at times. Like it overall
Really fun album. Not exactly my speed but lots of great music.
We are know kinks songs, but this recording proves that they are underrated.
Oh yeah, fuck the queen, fuck the crown, fuck the whole bloody empire! Quintessential post war counter culture album. Great listen with a lot of cool instrumentation, lacked some variety.
Awesome. Very Beatles esque. Also sooooo many medicocre indie bands from the 2010s make sense to me now because they were ripping this style off without the talent to do so.
"Victoria" is the best song on this album. The Kinks aren't for everyone, but they've been great for 60 years.
7,58
The kinks rock. Nobody should kink shame
I liked it a lot more on a subsequent closer listen. Like in the "Village Green", I'm getting a lot of Beatles, but with a tinge of Rolling Stones with the guitar work. The rock opera storytelling of the album reminded me a bit of Tommy by the Who. Really liked Victoria. Makes me wonder about an alternate universe in which I am just as familiar with the Kinks songs as the Beatles, would I feel differently? I'll give it a 4 because I was pleasantly surprised and want to compensate for my lack of exposure to some bands.
I can already tell you - just a pet peeve. I HATE when the only version of an album available to stream is some deluxe edition with bonus tracks tacked on at the end. I want to be able to listen to the album beginning to end the way it was originally released, including the natural ending to the track order. I love when the final track of an album plays and I get that feeling of completion. Mandatory bonus tracks ruin that. All that being said - Ok, what if you took the raw verve of the Stones, the richly layered harmonies of the Beatles, and the ambitious narrative reach of the Who? You'd get this album by The Kinks! It was awesome. A real collision of different tastes and sensibilities. Frontman Ray Davies is no Paul McCartney, but he's also no Mick Jagger. He's not a GREAT singer, but he's not terrible the way Jagger is, so he's got a real raw charm that he brings to the songs. And the songs are catchy as hell. They've got that same irresistible pull early Beatles stuff did, and I mean that as the highest compliment to both bands. I dunno who came first or if either band was even influenced by each other, but the music was amazing and however they got there is fine by me.
A pretty wholesome album, but not my genre.
Good to see this book gives some love to The Kinks who are one of the most underrated bands of the British invasion known more for their antics than there music. Their music is fantastic I've been a fan since my dad introduced me then via greatest hits they write perfectly crafted pop songs and all though this is not my favourite album of theirs it is still great full of fantastic tunes and one absolutely banger in Victoria
Этот мне понравился сильно больше, чем предыдущий про деревню. Лучшая песня - Shangri-La.
Not quite as good as their previous effort, but still a great and charismatic album from one of the most consistent bands of the ‘60s.
Amazing pivot from the early garage sound from just a handful of years earlier to this charming blend of folk, music hall and pop all the while talking mad shit in that oh so wry British way. Sonically, it kind of picks up where Village Green left off and since that’s my fav Kinks album all-time, that bodes well for the rating. 4.5/5
Some classic 1960s British rock pop with uplifting beats, meaningful lyrics, and a somewhat timeless sound.
Overall a good album. Most of the songs I vibed with and had my foot tapping. Just a nice upbeat album to put on when going on a walk or something. I lost interest in a few of the songs, but good showing from the Kinks.
Fun listen. Very Beatles-esque
This is a fun little album, with many quirky moments that shine spectacularly as unique to what everyone else in the rock scene (that The Kinks helped create) was doing, while surprisingly returning to their rock roots more than some of their most recent records at the time with tracks like Brainwashed or the drawn out outro of Australia. A lot of it works with me, such as the vocal inflections of the Davies brothers and their charming styles, or the sudden speed-up/slow-down found throughout the record. It allows for an album with plenty of memorable moments. I do think the album leans a bit too hard into the rock aspects at times, and I, personally, do not like the Kinks for their rock tunes, but the quirky pop tunes such as Drivin' feel like they'd fit right in on their prior album. It's hard to say too much about an album that I see as just unmistakeably "good," but this album will be a pleasure of any fan of the British Invasion, which is funny considering the concept of the album. Could see myself having far more to praise on a future re-listen. Just one more quick tangent; why does Australia, the song, deliver some of the best melodies and harmonies on the entire album, only to sour it with four minutes of random fiddling and rifling? It hurts my soul.
Generally good album, sounds a lot like British pop from the late 60s.
That was some very fun 60's pop. I don't think there was a dud in the bunch and few we quite infectious. I would definitely throw this record on again.
Shangrila hits a little too hard for a 40-year-old man.
I have enjoyed it.
Really enjoyed their unique sound, my favorites were “Victoria” and “Shangri-La”.
Really liked this.
Good enough Rock, some songs being already familiar.
good album by the kinks not their best but solid
Amazing. First listen to this album and I loved it! 4
Enjoyed this a lot. The Kinks are way underrated, they were the Beatles in another universe. Fave Tracks: Victoria, Australia, Shangri-La 4.3/5
This was actually really good. The only song I had heard before was Victoria, which I had always believed to have been by The Fall. I was kind of surprised to find it was from a Kinks album back in the 1960s!
This is a fun concept album. On my first go around I wasn't too impressed by it, but it grew on me. My favourite three depressing tracks are 'Yes Sir, No Sir', 'Some Mother's Son', and 'Shangri-La', all focusing around the banal evil of living in a society that either does not care about its constituents or actively wishes them harm. Great commentary
Really really enjoyed this one! Very close to giving it 5*
A true delight, especially for Anglophiles. Concept albums aren't really one's thing (they try to do the work of novels or films), but this is musicaly rich and excellent throughout. "Music hall calypso" is dead on. "Victoria," "Driving," the Churchill song, and the title cut are all great, as are "Shangri La" and "Australia." Whole thing is as British as Benny Hill and clotted cream.
Really good but nothing else on the album goes as hard after Victoria which was a bit of a letdown.
Truly an original band. Been diving deep lately and this one always worth it. Yay Ray
Not at all what I expected, lota of diverse tracks with interesting instrumentality. A 4, just about.
I remember my dad telling me many times over the years how The Kinks were one of the biggest bands of the 60s. I was mostly familiar with 70s and 80s Kinks. I do see where he would get that. I always doubted it. They are very Beatleesque In numerous songs on this particular album.
Delightful. Victoria is a five star song and my favorite Kinks song. I also really like Shangri-La.
A smooth listen, I love 60’s/early 70’s rock
Brainwashed is great, and I already loved Shangri La. Overall pretty solid 4/5 album.
This album is half brilliant and half filler. Some of the songs however are immensely lifted by the production choices. The Kinks are a heavily influential band on what is to come. This era however, they are listening to the hits of the day and still rooted in the rock roots of all 60s British musicians. I could hear a lot of alternative rock in there. Some of The Strokes, Talking Heads and the song "Arthur" sounds exactly like an REM song. Ray Davies is a absolute legend
I felt a little burnt out on this particular project today. Since I can remember most of my life I’ve spent every day checking out multiple new and “new to me” albums, sometimes sharing whatever I discovered with friends or checking out music they’ve discovered. This is nothing new to me, the writing about that experience is new to me, I’m not one to think people give a shit about my thoughts toward music or anything really. It’s just something personal to me that gets me through the day. A obsession? Maybe. I’m not a fierce critic on music because I know what a challenge it is to not only create something but to then in turn finish that creation and put it out for people to hear only to then in turn praise or abuse it. Another reason I’m not a good critic is because I’m not by any means a good writer so the writing part is always a challenge for me and my imposter syndrome/inferiority complex was in full bloom this morning so yeah, fuck me right? I say all this because that’s where my head was at when I pulled this album up and began my morning run. I was familiar with Victoria so my first thought was ok I’ve checked out this album before. That’s where the familiarity stopped. Obviously I know The Kinks from the songs everyone else knows but I’m not as familiar with this one. As the album played and my run began releasing much needed endorphins my mood picked up as did my appreciation for The Kinks. The production on this album is lush and expansive but at its core there’s just some excellent song writing and musical performances. Is it going too far to say this album could rival a few Beatles albums given the similarities in sound? I mean there’s no Ringo songs here to skip. I know, probably not. The Beatles are god. I still think this was an excellent attempt at pulling those gods down from their golden thrones and made for an enjoyable listening experience as well. Anyway there’s my honest take on where I’m at today and how this album was the soundtrack to my morning thoughts. Big surprise, another 4 for me! I fucking love music!
It dawns on me that listening to these albums outside of cultural and historical context is a novelty for us, yet for today's youth, that is how they experience all media today. Our novelty is the new norm. All movies, television, books, music--everything streaming or online--are available to them immediately and out of context. The removal of 'programming' isn't getting off the grid as much as it is becoming a lack of commonality. Nothing is normal; nothing is strange; nothing is sacred. Everything just is. Is that good, bad, or just . . . is? In short, I wonder if The Kinks were fully appreciated in their time. They had hits, but did the majority of their fans truly appreciate them? I always meant to go back and check out their catalog. When Arthur (Or the Decline and Fall of the British Empire) first started, I had to jump back and make sure that after skipping YouTube ads and what not I didn't actually select the wrong tracks. This is NOT the "You Really Got Me"/"Lola" Kinks I was expecting. I feel I missed an entire transition here. Surely there are some albums between then and now where this version of the Kinks makes sense as a natural progression. For me, it's quite a left turn . . . but I'll adjust. I chose to wait for a second listen before typing much more, and this is growing on me. "Some Mother's Son" is a dramatic telling of a soldier who longs for his childhood before being killed in the war while the local town continues about its business as usual. "Australia" is the first song that really grabbed me with its lush sha-la-la-la-las, tongue-in-cheek vocals, and erratic tempo changes; it reminds me of smaltzy lounging of The Strokes' "Call it Fate, Call it Karma", and I can imagine it as the inspiration entire Sufjan Stevens' albums. "Shangri La" mocks societal contentment with the banal leisure time of the working class, comfortable in predictability enough not to complain and to return to work dutifully each week. "You're in your place and you know where you are." They then turn their mockery to the blind obedience of authorities in "Mr. Churchill Says." In the experimental vein of early Pink Floyd and David Bowie, I hear the deep vocal strut of Hendrix (Mr. Churchill, in this context) at times, the whine of David Byrne other times, and the old-timey stylings akin to Queen's "Lazing On a Sunday Afternoon." I find this work inspired and inspirational. Another one I need to add to my collection . . . and I'll need to go back through their catalog and follow this transition more closely. Surely, there are gems to mine here. I'm ready to join the cult. Fitting that this album ends with the glowing gospel of "Arthur", welcoming everyone into the fold. "We love you and want to help you. Somebody loves you; don't you know it?!"
I only knew a few songs by the Kinks before this, so this was a rather delightful discovery–quite different to what I was familiar with. Only \"Victoria\" sounds somehow familiar...Have I heard it before in an ad or something? Sonically this is a very full, rich recording. A late-’60s post Sgt. Pepper sound with elements of blues and psychedelia. Creative and varied instrumentation. Between “Victoria” and “Yes Sir, No Sir,” it's immediately clear that this is a British album through and through, musically lyrically, thematically. The theme of “Yes Sir, No Sir” perfectly portrays the timid, sniveling, “know your place, don't question, mustn't grumble” attitude of the military, the attitude of a culture with a strong hierarchical class and social system. Oh, the noble longsuffering! The impotent smallness of an individual lifetime. “Hanging on in quiet desperation is the English way.” These can be rather bleak themes to explore, but the tone of the album is not morose. Indeed, there is an element of absurdity infused throughout. I've seen this before, this combination of cheeky irreverence and lyrical sketches of ordinary British people used to expose the foibles of the larger culture. It totally reminds me of Blur! I would be willing to put good money on this album being highly influential to Blur; they seem to have followed its blueprint exactly. Funny to discover this connection since I listened to a lot of Blur but had no idea this album existed. I guess there never is anything new under the sun. Other themes here involve Britain during the two world wars and the post-war period, trying to make a successful life in often empty, bland modern society while still yearning for the good old days of the past, even being tempted away by promises of future glories in far away lands. “Some Mother's Son” is a great anti-war song that, like one of my other favorite anti-war songs, “Army Dreamers” by Kate Bush, uses the perspective of the mother-son relationship to illustrate the stupidity of dying in war. I remember looking at my own first newborn baby and realizing that every asshole on Earth was some mom's baby at some point. To be a mother's son is to be the highest version of yourself, the most beautiful, innocent, eternal. And yet there they are in their hundreds, fallen in some field, bleeding out, rubbish. What a silly waste. A few other notable songs: The song “Brainwashed” rocked. More than an ode to the actual country, “Australia” is a celebration of persuasive advertising and hype, climbing to ecstatic heights and jamming out by the end. I like the Beach Boys-esque vocals during the part about how they'll have surfing like they do in the U.S.A. Shangri-La paints a vivid picture of suburban monotony set to peppy, danceable music. All in all, this is a well-thought out, well executed album that is tight and cohesive yet varied and interesting. It inspires further dives into The Kinks’s catalog. 4.5
Of course I was familiar with The Kinks, but not this album, I probably have heard some of the songs but not a lot of them. While listening to the album the second time through I realized that this had to be a concept album and there was a story here, so I looked it up.
I need to listen to more Kinks! Enjoyable from start to finish. Great songsmanship and composition. 4/5
No bad. Some hints of amazing in there, but consistently solid. They did a thing. They did it well. And I enjoyed it.
Out of the gate this was looking bleak, but it really grew on my after a few listens. Solid concept album with some pleasant surprises. 4 / 5 Really digging the jammy jazz interlude on Australia. Some silky smooth guitar work floating around above shifting drums, some horns, and some spoken words floating in and out of the background. Mr. Churchill Says kinda slaps tbh. Especially (once again) the guitar work through the back half. Big fan of some clean noodly guitar work.
Sounded very similar to a lot of the Beatles earlier stuff, but just more aspects of rock and almost more of some jamming. This album started off hot with Victoria which I think was the best song on the album, but the remainder was still really good. Some of the longer songs had some really cool jam parts. This was probably the best of the 3 Kinks albums that has come up so far. I feel like I could listen to this any day of the week
Ayy another Kinks album. From the other 2 they've been pleasant enough. I've heard Victoria great song especially the key change halfway through. Had this on in the background while working but definitely getting some Beatles out of this one. Just some whacky shit that I can get behind. Between a 3 and 4 but I'm feeling it now so 4 it is.
Such good pop! Really liked it
Really under appreciated band they were there for the transition of pop rock british invasion to the harder rock and were an integral part of that change. They dont get the credit they deseve ans Davis is a top notch guitar player as well. This album you can see the late stages of the pop rock amd see the newer harder guitar riff coming up. Really liked the album maybe a bit too long with over 20 songs and some are too popish for the others that are in the album. Im giving it 4 cause it could have been more rockish. The Beatles influence is undeniable but they did manage to do it in their own fashion
I really loved this as a snapshot of late 60s Britain, although it's not going to be my favorite Kinks album.
A good, straightforward rock album.
Great Kinks record with some fun horn parts and catchy melodies. This makes me want to check out their more popular records for sure.
This was a pretty interesting album. A lot of anti-war messages. Shangri-La is the best song here, what a jam. Cool chorus and some surprisingly cool guitar and drums. Overall i think the album is good, not amazing. Runner up song is Yes Sir, No Sir.
Nice album.
Brilliant
Really good, veddy British (obvs) and well worth knowing – indeed, most worthy of being far better known. The world needs more songs about "gooseberry tarts." Not sure how piercing or even relevant the satire is. But one thinks "Victoria," "Driving," the Churchill song, and the title cut are all excellent. "Shangri La" and "Australia" are epic (and pretty funny besides). One aims to spend more time with Davies.
This album starts out sounding like The Beatles and then grows into something like a slightly more punk rock version of that. A great listen.
Eh. It’s the Kinks. I like them but this isn’t their best.
Not a band I've ever really been exposed to. Love the vocal arrangements on this record. Can hear their influence all over modern indie rock/indie sleaze. Highlights: Victoria, Drivin', brilliant opening bassline and intermittent sax on Brainwashed, Australia for the lyrics especially, Shangri-La. The whole thing feels very 60s yet forward looking, I guess that's a reflection of it being a '69 release. Will probably come back to the highlights on this, overall enjoyable listen that deserves more of my time and attention than I can give right now.
Pretty good, I like the guitars. It's cool that it tells a story over the course of the album. None of the songs really stood out to me but it feels like the kind of album that would stick after a few listens (which I'll probably never get around to in all honesty)
damn this rules hard.
I expected to like this album more than I did, since I really liked the Kinks back in high school. This one caught me off guard, however. Some seems overly repetitious. Some seemed like it had a bit of a Monty Python sort of off-the-wall aspect, which I actually sort of like. All in all I liked it, just not as much as I wanted to.
A good old classic rock album. I liked the concept and felt that it mixed it up enough to be interesting. I wasn’t a big fan of the vocals. A pretty good album.
Oldschool, really liked two songs!
listened on 21/11/25 whilst writing my personal statement for mental health nursing. liked this album but need to give it my full attention for a few more listens before I can fully appreciate it and give it 5 stars. had already heard 'victoria' before listening and enjoyed 'brainwashed' and 'young and innocent days' in particular whilst listening.
What a fun concept album. God, the Kinks were ahead of their time.
Good album, some catchy songs sort of in the mold of the Beatles. No complaints, good stuff
Always loved the kinks especially the early stuff
Interesting listen, I recognized a couple tracks and favored a few. Sound and style is consistent with the time and they probably got outshined a little by the Beatles. Overall a solid album. 3.5/5
I enjoyed this. It was an unexpected surprise and a long way from “You Really Got Me.” Proof that Ray Davies is a good songwriter and can stand at least in the vicinity of that era of Lennon/McCartney.
The Kinks have always felt like the answer to the question “what if the Stones were cool and wrote interesting songs?” to me. This is a great album, I think it actually gets better as it goes on.
More 4/4 rock than "something else by the kinks." I did not realize how many albums and good ones they had. All told more of a unit than Tommy, something to be said for economical storytelling. Great hook on victoria, good licks from dave.
There is something about the Kinks that seems so quintessentially british that I always feel somewhat transported to a different time and place every time I listen to them. A sense of mood, played with a straight back, a devastatingly quirky sense of humour, a certain idea of melancholy, a sense of rhythm. This album finds them at their best. Songs are populated with intelligent and funny / serious lyrics, interesting little finds scattered throughout (like the horn sections at key moments), fast changes that keep me on my toes and, in a way, prefigure the rise of progressive rock. They are ambitious, but without taking themselves too seriously. Listening to this also reminded me how much a band like the Libertines owes them. A really enjoyable record, that I will happily come back to.
The Kinks made a lot of very happy music :)
Ok,ik zou een pest hekel moeten hebben aan dit album, want veel Britser en rockeriger dan dit ga je ze niet krijgen. Maar ik vind dit echt prima te pruimen zeg. Ik heb het idee dat er zo veel plezier in dit album zit, de muziek is fun, de teksten lijken niet zo sterk, maar worden(denk ik) met zoveel plezier gebracht dat ik het echt prima te handelen vind. Een heel nummer over Australië, een van mn favoriete nummers over Austalië sinds Down Under! Met bijna een soort jazzy outro van 3 minuten!! Ze weten me wel te pakken zo zeg, erg slim! Niet alles werkt even top(is dat nou een kazoo op She's bought a hat like princess Marina? ) Maar het grootste deel klinkt echt top. Dit is voor mij hoe een rock album moet zijn, veel tempo wisselingen, beetje fout en gewoon veel lol in de muziek. Maar misschien komt het ook een klein beetje doordat ik dit vrijdagmiddag luister, vlak voor het weekend begint. Hebben ze mooi mazzel mee dan. FAVO: Victooooooooria, Drivin', Brainwashed, Australia, Shangri-la, Nothing to say
Oooooo this one’s interesting. Adding it to my relisten list
good fun! im gonna go listen to the falls version of victoria now
4-
My favourite of the British invasion concept albums we've had so far - always liked The Kinks songwriting style and while this is not as catchy as their straight pop rock work I appreciated the theme. Three and a half. Fave track: Shangri-La
Really enjoyed this album, shangrila was a good song!
I liked this one, a nice slice of craziness loaded into a solid album.
Vou ser sincero que não prestei atenção nas letras, talvez em uma segunda escutada depois de ler as letras, se torne um álbum 5 estrelas
I wasn't familiar with this album, but I liked it a lot. I don't know why The Kinks weren't as big in the US as other British Invasion bands. Apart from the handful of songs that do get radio play here, I'm not familiar with much of their work at all. Arthur appears to be a concept record about the working class in the UK. The songs and music sit somewhere between The Beatles and The Who, which is a pretty great place to be sitting. I liked this a lot. I'm going to track down a copy for myself.
Ive always enjoyed The Kinks, but have only ever had greatest hits CDs. I took this to be a concept album about the damage of war, and the abuse of the poor by those in authority. The songs were balanced well, and the whole thing was fairly easy to listen to, although I think someone from an older generation would have more references to take more in-depth meanings behind the lyrics (then I).
7.5/10
I dig it
It sounds like the beatles but better
The state of the British Empire is just a ceaseless venture into the thoughts and minds of whomever wishes to inquire about it. The Brothers Davies were no exception, they've made it their life's mission. It was as if they've become completely out of step with the times and, yet, they got really great around that. The Kinks' album Arthur is one of those examples. Based around an ordinary carpet-layer, we are summoned to almost fifty minutes of richly layered, opaque, grandiose rock and roll; the kind that would make contemporaries look lightweight in contrast to The Kinks' quaint and retrospective disposition. Arthur (Or the Decline and Fall of the British Empire) is the kind of music that makes one think they've learned a thing or two from as we become ensconced with the band's voluminous and admittedly convoluted backstory. Yet another fine chapter in The Kinks' discography. Favorites: Victoria, Yes Sir No Sir, Some Mother's Son, Drivin', Australia, Shangri-la, She's Brought a Hat Like Princess Marina, Arthur.
Enjoyed a lot more than expected. Really fun album
ССУКООО ЧТО ЗА МУЗЫКА ДЛЯ ТЕАТРА, очень аристократично, вальяжно. провинциалы не поймут. своя атмосферко. 9/10, такое слушаемссс Это было заебато. Я даже несколько прихуел и кайфанул. Давненько подобного не слушал. Музыкантам респект! Театральный альбомчик. 4/5
Great, listened a couple times and enjoyed it thouroughly
Good
A bouncy, Brit-pop fun album. Great guitar riffs and the addition of a horns section from time to time really pops! Replayable, especially for sunny backyard afternoons. High 4.
I usually listen to the Kink Kronikles which are great but this was a wonderful reminder of what you miss when you listen to a compilation. Great album with the usual mix of highs and low but they stay on theme and the whole is greater than the sum of the parts.
Tight
Great album. I never rally listened to it and I thank this generator for opening my ears to it. A lot of bands clearly were influenced by The Kinks or influenced by bands that were influenced by The Kinks.
A couple of quaint (yet actually charming) "novelty" cuts here and there. But most of all, a lot of deftly pop-rock songs that miraculously sound like they could have been recorded in the 19th century somehow--in keeping with the album's sarcastic thematic program, explained in its title. Probably those lush horn and piano arrangements messing up with the "rock" template. Lots of gems in this record, including three "essential" micro-epics pivotal for anyone who's ever got interested in The Kinks--all ending with the letter 'a', oddly enough: good old sixties rocker and opener "Victoria" ; "Australia" and its insane jam during its soaring conclusion ; and tight and harmonically gripping "Shangri-La", also full of unexpected surprises during its "progression". Ray Davies really was an unsung hero of those times, on an near-equal footing with his more commercially succesful peers, like Paul McCartney or John Lennon. Too bad that weird psychedelic film whose script inspired those songs never got made. The artwork here suggests a Monty-Python-like, Terry Gilliam-animated kind of fantasy. To which I would add some steampunk elements for good measure. But maybe it's good that Kinks fans can all make their own private version of that movie in their heads... 4/5 for the purposes of this list of "essential records. Which translates to a 9/10 grade for more general purposes. Number of albums left to review: 234 Number of albums from the list I find relevant enough to be mandatory listens: 331 (including this one) Albums from the list I *might* include in mine later on: 195 Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 247
Mi primer acercamiento a The Kinks. Quedé muy sorprendido por las habilidades de composición y letras de Ray Davies. El concepto del álbum es conciso y bien ejecutado. Solido LP, sólo me falta darle más escuchas. FAVTRAXS: Some Mother's Son, Australia, Shangri-La, Mr. Churchill Says, Young and Innocent Days LEASTFAV: Drivin' 3.5/5
Un disco que comienza con un temazo como Victoria ha de ser de escucha obligatoria. Una de las mejores obras de los fundamentales The Kinks, mucho más apreciada fuera que dentro del Reino Unido (un disco demasiado British hasta para ellos...). Se escucha perfectamente del tirón, por partes o por temas sueltos y el resultado es el mismo: un gustazo inigualable. Editado en 1969 año de otros discazos como Abbey Road, Tommy, Five Leaves Left, Nashville Skyline, Let it Bleed, The Stooges, dos de la CCR, dos de MC5, otros dos de Led Zeppelin, Hot Rats, In the Court of the Crimson King, Hot Rats, Trout Mask Replica, Ummagumma, Stand, Hot Buttered Soul, The Gilded Palace of Sin, el 3º de la VU, Dusty in Memphis, Elvis in Memphis, Odessa, otros debuts como los de Van der Graag Generator o Can... Su influencia se palpa a lo largo de las décadas, no hace falta mencionar a toda la pléyade de bandas del Britpop que tomaron este y otros discos de los Kinks como manual de instrucciones.
Wow, I really wasn't sure what to expect but this was fucking superb. There were several tracks I already knew but other than one or two lulls the whole album rocked.
Big fan of the kinks now
I enjoyed this
Really good
First listen Saved 9/12 Top track: Shangri-La
Always wondered why the kinks never got to the level as the other British Invasion groups. When you put out amazing albums like this one it’s hard to see. The album is so very British, from the theme and title to the many different tracks including British colloquialisms and humor.
Good stuff
Jolly music with amusing lyrics. I feel like this style has been emulated many times since, so I have it an extra star for innovation (although I am just guessing).
The Kinks were always seen in the US as being behind The Beatles and the Stones, as far as the first wave British Invasion bands. And they were certainly less successful over here. But they're also the most "English" of the three. That said, they are consistently good. I own 8x Kinks albums. from 1964's Kinda Kinks, through 1980's One For The Road. But somehow, I missed this one. Part of an impressive 4 album streak (US releases): Village Green, Arthur, Lola, Muswell Hillbillies... quite a streak. The only songs I knew going in were the brilliant "Victoria" and the only great "Shangri La". But this is a very solid album. Very much in the mood of Village Green, that very slice-of-English-life feel. Solid, but lags a bit behind those other albums mentioned above, but certainly worthy. 4/5
This is fabulous, quirky, English, and at time rocking album. Thoroughly enjoyed Dave Davies' great guitar work and several licks throughout the album. The slow builds of several songs are just phenomenal. I've only previously known the big hits from The Kinks, but very glad to listen to this great work. Favorite tracks: Victoria, Yes Sir, No Sir, Some Mother's Sin, Brainwashed, Australia, Shangri-La, Mr. Churchill Says, Nothing to Say, Arthur.
Really really like this, solid 60s energy that has aged amazingly and still sounds great today. It's diverse, dynamic, and interesting all the way through. I found the song "Australia" to drag on a bit, nothing too major but the second half of that song does feel a bit unnecessary. Other than that, there is absolutely everything to love about this album.
Fun album, but not one I see myself listening to often in the future. Probably would’ve been listening to this regularly 50 years ago
Very enjoyable classic late 60s rock. Driving is very Beatles-y. She's Bought a Hat Like Princess Marina is VERY Beatles-y.
Right off the bat this is much crisper and refined than the other (admittedly limited) Kinks records I’ve listened to. The vocal work isn’t the most dynamic, but it’s suitable and any harmonization sections really shine. Guitar work is consistent and elevates to strong when brought to the foreground, easily meshing with pianos, brass, bass, or whatever else is playing partner. Listened to: walking to the Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace NHS site. Favorite tracks: Victoria, Australia
Third Kinks album this week
Nice 4/5
Way better than I expected - lots of mental concept album stuff going on here, and a properly mental backstory
Just want to sit in my shangri la.
Loved these. Not all are great, but most of them are.
another classic
Loved it
Sounds a bit like mid-period Beatles. The influence by the Kinks on Parquet Courts was obvious.
The Kinks are the coolest. And this album was a lot of fun.
Excellent balance of the elements, quintessentially Kinks Bangers: "Victoria", "Australia", and "Mr. Churchill Says"
Sew sew gewd.
Best songs: Some Mother's Son Drivin'
Brilliant anti-establishment lyrics. I've slept on The Kinks. Knowing only their standards. This is an amazing example of pushing the envelope without rage or obvious anger. Mom & Dad beware. To borrow from The Who, the kids are not all right. They are fed up and want more.
The Kinks - Arthur or the decline and the fall of the British Empire I love The Kinks, but I'd never listened to this album. Upon my research I discovered that this is a concept album for a television program that was never made in England. Ray Davies based the story on his brother in law and his sister that moved to Australia. I don't feel that there is anything that stands out on this album, but you can tell that it is a Kinks album. Victoria and Shangri-La were songs I knew about from their compilation Kink Kronikles. 4/5
This is a really good concept album. The songs are good, the lyrics worth paying attention to, and delivery excellent. The Kinks at their intelligent best. It's not the You Really Got Me or All Day and All Night Kinks; it's a thoughtful, satirical Kinks... Different, but very listenable.
Kinks rarely miss
I enjoyed this album a lot, though some parts are kinda niche in terms of overall likability. I’m not sure some of these tracks have replay value for me. I will say the creativity is top notch. Shout out to the kinks for puttin it out there
Got hints of 2000s indie rock which was unexpected. I guess this is an influential album and I enjoyed it a bit more than I expected (having not enjoyed a previous Kinks recommendation).
The whole is greater than the sum of its parts here. No single song was catchy or stood out, but the overall atmosphere of this whole album is really sticking with me.
This whole era of The Kinks is great - everything from Something Else up to Lola is a super enjoyable listen. This one doesn’t really have a standout song like the others, but as a whole conceptual record it works incredibly well
Early Kinks resembles early Beatles, except with more of an edge thanks to the Davies brothers. Good album!
4.5
Contrairement a mon camarade d'écoute robenlierre, je suis assez fan du travail des Kinks. Le manque de reconnaissance de rob est d'ailleurs assez décevant, ce dernier semble en effet oublier que les Kinks ont lancé sa carrière en l'invitant sur leur titre phare "All Of My Friends Were There"...
Absolutely love this one, a timeless classic full of brilliant tracks. It’s not by accident that they’re one of the most influential rock bands of that time. [0134/1001]
Hat mir gut gefallen.
these guys always hit. loved the use of horns throughout this one
Proper 60s jam, loved it!
Basslines in Victoria are to die for. Sounds much more modern than it is, you can hear the influence the kinks have had on music immediately. The riff at the start of Brainwashed reminds me of Bad Guy by Billie Eilish
Not my favorite Kinks album but still great.
Kinky ;)
Their seventh album in five years, "Arthur: The Decline and Fall of the British Empire" seals the Kinks' transformation from rock-and-roll beatniks into high-concept baroque pop extraordinaires. The only song I'd heard before from here, and the only one that gets within a whiff of most Kinks Greatest Hits compilations, is the brilliant pomp and glory of "Victoria". The rest lies hidden just out of sight: a treasure trove of hidden gems and eclectic diversions. Ray Davies crafted "Arthur" as a concept album, basing it loosely on the story of his brother-in-law, Arthur Anning who emigrated to Australia. It barely holds together, but really it works because the songs underpinning it succeed on their own terms. There's no filler for the sake of serving the concept (a la "The Wall"), no getting bogged down in the ambition of the whole piece (a la "Tommy"). And above all, the band are clearly having a lot of fun. This album is less folksy and foppish than I'd anticipated: there are lashings of brittle, driving rock, and multiple twists and turns in the arrangements to keep us guessing. Take the harder rock bridges in "Shangri-La" and "Mr. Churchill Says", or the three-minute coda to "Australia" featuring guitar, sax and wobbleboard: they aren't standout moments, but it is nice to hear the band let loose. Oh, and I have to mention "She's Bought a Hat with Princess Marina": tight, intricate and schizophrenic, it fuses glib social commentary with a ludicrous and brilliant kazoo breakdown in the end, as we suddenly collapse into knees-up skiffle. When Davies doesn't want to pull punches in his songwriting, we're hit with the scathing anti-war sentiment of "Yes Sir, No Sir" and "Mr. Churchill Says", the breathtaking majesty of "Shangri-La", and the morbid "Some Mother's Son" (the ultimate end-point: "head blown up by some soldier's gun"). Finally, the title track serves as a motivational love letter to the protagonist (though also reads as an address to the nation personified, with its repeated insistence that "somebody loves you, don't you know it"). Most of "Arthur" is absolutely first class: it's only slightly let down by a couple of more standard fare tracks. "Drivin'" and "Brainwashed" feel a little like cast-offs from earlier albums, boasting a decent chorus without reaching the same heights or thematic weight as some of the other songs here. All in all, though, this is tremendous fun: somebody loves it, don't you know it.
I like Village Green better, but this was a fun album
this list loves itself a concept album. and this guy loves himself the kinks
Solid album, will have to listen to it many more times!
Really impressive stuff. The guitar licks rip, and the lyrics are sharp. The music has very strong composition with many layers strewn about. I’m really into the almost funky like breaks with the bass lines and drum beats, and every time I think it’s going to be a boring song, the best kicks in and I’m bobbing along.
Will listen to it again when I have time to just listen.
Decent album, more experimental and conceptual stuff is always interesting.
Kinks have been a band that has consistently impressed me in this voyage.
I really enjoyed this. Nothing really stuck out as truly special except this is miles above the other 'rock operas' we've listened to on this project so far (Tommy and Bat Out Of Hell which were both pretty universally hated in our group)
Fun bright and fresh throughout. Opening song is the best and really sets up the album. Great album to start the day. 7
Good album, nice length for the content. I liked the subject matter/tone combo, good juxtaposition. Strong 7
This was a good late-60s psychedelic rock album. Many tracks were memorable and I highly recommend a listen! Favorite Song(s): "Victoria", "Shangri-La", "Mr. Churchill Says", "Nothing to Say", "Arthur"
Would never throw on The Kinks myself but this album is pretty solid. Very much a product of its time but for the variety of sounds this mid-60s pop rocknroll record provides, you'd be as well just playing The Beatles or Beach Boys. 7/10
Nice listening. classic British rock
I liked the album. I'm very aware of The Kinks but apparently their later stuff. This was a very cool album and I liked the story it told throughout. Could definitely hear the sound of The Kinks in this early work for sure.
Overall I don't really have any complaints about this album. I liked it and would probably listen to it again.
Some really fun songs!
Strong concept album, doesn’t drag on too long in any of the songs except maybe victoria. Lyrics are incredible and tell such a story. Kept me engaged and will definitely be back to listen again. Favs: mr churchill says, shanrgi-la, brainwashed
pica
fun
Liked it.
Solid album. I've heard a fair amount of The Kinks before, but not this album, except the track Victoria. A really good listen!
Is this consumer-obsessed society we've built on the blood of soldiers worth it? The fear at the center of all our frenzied consumption hangs like a pall over our white-washed suburban lives, and we stagnate in our gardens as the walls of our empire fall around our ears.
Calité de The Kinks. Review firmada por Alfredo Duro.
Listened from Auckland. Kazoo! Generally enjoyable. Harmonically interesting.
Very vibey. Enjoyed listening to this
Loved this album! Makes me feel good! 4 stars
Never really listened to The Kinks, I know of them and have heard some songs. On the outside they sound Beatlesy but like more psychedelic rockish. “Australia” is a fucking delightful banger, what a weird masterpiece. We have heard some albums that sound kind of similar to this but there was just more in this one than the others. A strange mix of a bunch of different genres and sounds from the 60/70s that make up a fairly satisfying album. 8/10
Catchy songs with a good political message.
Great album
A British Invasion concept album about a very British everyman. Our protagonist loves being British, goes to war for a bit, thinks about moving to Australia, opines on home ownership and the empire, and copies a princess's style. Do you get that it's all very British? This is the rare album where I actually liked the back half better than the front half. "Victoria" is a good start, but I struggled a bit with the war songs at the beginning. "Drivin'" is one of the singles from the album and it's a bit chaotic musically. Once we get to "Australia" though things start to turn a bit and it gets pretty fun. The juxtaposition of "She's Bought a Hat Like Princess Marina" and "Young and Innocent Days" is really striking. The former playing up these goofy horns and then it launches right into a beautiful song reflecting on time passed. I can't quite decide how I feel about this. It's a bit all over the place (and almost painfully British), but the narrative is tight and the varied sound works as a metaphor for what a life is like. "Arthur" finishes strong too; "Somebody loves you, don't ya know it". Favorite song: Shangri-La Other: Victoria, Drivin', Australia, She's Bought a Hat Like Princess Marina, Young and Innocent Days, Nothing to Say, Arthur 12/1/23
This ripped. The first song (Victoria) was far and away my favorite, so I thought this might be one of my favorite albums ever. The songs after that first one didn't hit the same highs, but I enjoyed all of them. I'd give this 4.5 if I could. I really want this to crack my long-term listening rotation, but I'm not sure if it'll get all the way there.
I can definitely see how they influenced so many bands. It's an amazing album.
A lot of war themes. Focused on the stories it tells with the lyrics. Nice musical aspect as well. Less popular than I expected an album on this list to be, but I enjoyed it. Will listen more to form a better opinion, but first impressions are pretty good. Has just enough Britishness for it not to be too overwhelming, much better than Blur. From seeing their discography this one doesn't seem to be one of their most successful so I'll give a try with the other ones sometime as well. Feel a bit overwhelmed though with all the music to listen to rn lol. In general pretty good, didn't completely blow away as of now, but good :) 7/10
I liked it. It was nice. My brain needs breathing room to process the amount of music I intake daily, so this album is mostly a pleasant blur of sounds rn.
The album starts off with the great song Victoria and doesnt let up from there.
I only know a handful of The Kinks songs. Going into this what I expected was not what i got. Album was a good vibe but it did give my expectations whiplash.
Really is very good. Best song - Yes sir, no sir
Victoria is from this one hey? never knew that. Works much better than Tommy, all the songs here are pretty good. Not totally fair since writing a rock opera about a middle class English family suits the Kinks more than anyone. Cool messy guitar in the left speaker of the last song. I think for me as a listener 'concept album' type stuff is nearly always going to be worse. I'd like songs like Nothing to Say more if they didn't fit in a narrative sequence. Linear lyrical structure isn't what I come to music for. Rounding up to 4 for Victoria. It is kinda funny that the best song on a nostalgia story is the first track. music: appreciated. (⌐◯_◯)
Coincidentally got this not long after Tommy. I ripped The Who for biting off more than they could chew… only to hear the Kinks do something kinda similar and, I think, do it a lot more artfully.
enjoyable, eclectic to some extent and comfy. really liked that guitars, and Shangri-La
Didn't like at very first listen. But they definitely grew on me. Sort of a lazy Sunday album, nice and relaxing.
great!
First time listen. In background, thought a couple of songs were the Beatles.
Another Kinks concept album which, like the other ones, is better than all the concept albums by prog rock bands that would come later.
I really liked this one. Stories were fun, music was bouncy.
This was a lot of fun. Like a mashup between the Beatles and Monty python. Very whimsical.
As a compliment, this is basically just a very lively Beatles album.
So, this is like the sequel to the village green preservation society? This is good. Funky and witty and mean at points. It's got a flair for the dramatic and it's shaken off the stodgy music hall element that made village green a bit difficult to listen to. It's like Monty Python. It's weird and it changes repeatedly and it's sweet in an odd kind of way. 4.5/5. Strong album.
Starts with an absolute banger. Lots of poking at the comfortable class.
Favourite songs: Victoria, "Yes Sir, No Sir", Some Mother's Son, Shangri-La, Mr. Churchill Says, Arthur Least favourite songs: Australia 4/5
Some really good ones on here i liked it
De LOIN le meilleur album que j'ai eu de The Kinks à date. Les compositions sont tellement plus attrayantes, musicalement plus développées, généralement beaucoup plus entraînant. J'ai beaucoup plus l'impression d'écouter un album rock entièrement étoffé que ceux du passé. Une très belle découverte, je dirais aussi qu'il y a un très bon potentiel de réécoute. 8/10
Enjoyed it, reminded me a lot of the Beatles, which makes sense since they're from a similar same place and time.
Really fun rock opera. Huge fan of the kinks so this was a no brainer.
Seems culturally significant for it's time, lots of war protest messaging. The art reminds me of Monty Python (though not the same artist). It's good.
Always a sucker for concept albums, interesting story that it is inspired by his sister and brother in law. Musically quite good as well
Victooooooooooooria! VICTOOOOOOOOOOORIA! The Kinks vinden de connectie tussen The Beatles en Monty Python's the Holy Grail. Misschien niet mijn favoriete Kinks plaat maar toch 4 voor dit geslaagd huwelijk. Gaat hier nog wel eens opstaan.
Love the Kinks. Not my favorite album though.
i had never really listened to the kinks, i didn’t realize they were from the beatles era. i assumed they were from the punk times. easy listening!!
1. Concept and Themes: The album revolves around the story of Arthur Morgan, a fictional character created by the band's lead singer and songwriter, Ray Davies. The narrative explores the life of an average Englishman, Arthur, and his experiences in post-World War II Britain. It serves as a poignant commentary on the changing social, political, and cultural landscape of the country. The concept allows for a deep exploration of themes like class struggle, nostalgia, and the evolving British identity. 2. Musical Style: "Arthur" features the distinctive sound that The Kinks are known for, a blend of rock, pop, and folk. Ray Davies' songwriting prowess is at the forefront, and his ability to craft catchy melodies with sharp, observational lyrics shines throughout the album. The Kinks' signature guitar work, vocal harmonies, and Davies' storytelling abilities make the music both accessible and thought-provoking. 3. Standout Tracks: "Victoria": This opening track is an upbeat, catchy ode to the British monarchy and sets the tone for the album. "Shangri-La": A highlight of the album, this song explores the concept of the perfect life and satirizes the pursuit of the suburban dream. "Some Mother's Son": A moving and powerful anti-war ballad, it reflects on the sacrifices of young soldiers and the impact of war on families. "Australia": A bittersweet and heartfelt song about emigration and the longing for home. "Arthur": The titular track beautifully encapsulates the character's life and the album's central theme. 4. Social Commentary: Ray Davies' songwriting on "Arthur" is a sharp critique of British society. He paints a vivid picture of the working-class struggle, societal expectations, and the pursuit of the British dream. The album serves as a poignant reflection on the post-war era and the changing national identity. 5. Legacy and Impact: "Arthur" didn't achieve immediate commercial success upon its release, but it has gained recognition over the years as a classic concept album. Its influence can be heard in subsequent works by artists exploring similar themes and storytelling in their music. The album also highlights The Kinks' unique place in the British Invasion of the 1960s, distinct from other bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones. In conclusion, "Arthur (Or the Decline and Fall of the British Empire)" is a significant achievement in The Kinks' career. It's a brilliant concept album that offers a thoughtful and often satirical exploration of British society in the 1960s. Its enduring quality and insightful lyrics have solidified its place in the pantheon of classic rock albums, making it a must-listen for any fan of the genre or those interested in the history and culture of post-war Britain.
went back to listen to some of it again idk why i liked it but i certainly did
Wow, wasn't expecting to enjoy this album this as much as I did. Haven't really heard much of the Kinks, but they sound like a more punk Beatles. Thought the concept album was cool, based on a working class life in post war England. Gonna have to listen to more of The Kinks. 4.5/5
For it’s time this was an excellent album. A much underrated band
Excellent for relaxing