Reviews (page 5 of 14)
great southern rock. Levon Helm is an amazing talent that elevates the group! The hits on this entry are carrying this album, but unfortunately everything else is just okay. Definitely worth a listen if only for the singles.
Very enjoyable album with some iconic songs. I didn’t love it all the way through and their voices were grating on some of the songs but overall it was good!
One of my favorite records. This is one that I never get tired of listening to. The songs on this album are Americana classics. But what really makes this record for me is the way it was recorded. The old school way of the band playing all in one room & capturing the live feel. You can hear the members flowing with each other on every song. The Band was a true brotherhood.
Top redneck sounding for my taste
This album feels old. It doesn't sound old. In fact, it's held up better than a lot of 60s albums that were cutting edge at the time. I suspect it feels old because it felt old at the time too. Between the rustic tales of farms, boats, and bourbon and the blend of country and roots rock, it feels like music from another time. But it's also proven to be timeless, a tour through classic Americana styles. It's a very comfy album. The songs are fleshed out with subtle highlights like fiddle or piano that really make them pop. I like that the vocals are traded off between members. The album does lack true highlights; "Up on Cripple Creek," the closer, and "Dixie" (even if I can't bring myself to care about a southerner during the Civil War) are the closest to great songs. It also boasts no bad songs though, which is enough to make this a comforting album to come back to.
Very bold to name your band “THE band”
I was not familiar with this record before today. I had an impression in my head that these guys were a really good, solid band of top-notch performers. I'm not sure if times have changed or if my standards / expectations have changed, but I was a little underwhelmed. As far as the record goes, it plays like a collection of songs, a playlist; there doesn't seem to be any cohesive theme to the lyrical content. Sonically, I like the way the instruments are captured. It's quite a folky collection of instruments (incl the way they're played) which is not really my thing. Some quite catchy numbers though, could imagine enjoying this at some hipster party in the 70s.
It's funny. Nearly every band I love cites The Band as an inspiration. I love Dylan. This album should be one of my most favorite albums, but it's not. I still like it, but just not "in like" with it.
This is a fine album. No bangers, but nothing unlistenable. If it was playing at a pub I would probably even mention that the music's pretty good. It's a vibe, and not a bad one. I'm unlikely to listen to it a lot more though, but I wouldn't be mad if it came up in a "rock easy-listening" playlist I put on when I have visit over.
Pretty fun pretty cool
Great collection of tracks. Full arrangements and soulful performances.
Cozy rock
It’s not a Buffalo Springfield, but it’s fair enough.
"I started to play the song yesterday, and stopped myself. Again, I was angry. Again, another story about the blues of Pharaoh, and the people are invisible. The people are always invisible. "These motherfuckers," I mumbled to myself." -Ta-Nehisi Coates, about 'The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down'
6/10
One of the best by one of the best.
Very good. Favourite song: Up On Cripple Creek
The Band was a little before my time and even back then I never understood why they were considered great. I feel if Martin Scorsese directs a film about your farewell concert, then your music must be great. After listening to it in full I hear the blues, folk, rock influences but it's still just meh to me. They sound a lot like Grateful Dead, which I would much rather listen to.
Decent album I just couldn’t get into it
Oh man, so generic. Ita not like they are the doors...
Didn't like as much as big pink ,but it was decently alright, cripple creek great
Pack the bags, cigarettes and hard liquor, it’s time for a good old fashioned road trip across the midwest. Fave tracks: The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down, Jawbone & The Unfaithful Servant
Makes me want to listen to CSN&Y. 2.5/5
Probably the least creative band name of all time. Fave track: Across the Great Divide
The Band (The Band) made some Music (Music). 2.5/5
Not really sure how I feel about this one, since it isn’t really my genre, but I never really felt like there was anything here I’d ever come back to and listen to. Every song just feels like relaxing by the lake which is a good feeling, but I also can’t remember any specific time I’ve sat by the lake just the fact that I was sitting by the lake. I don’t think I’m going to remember any song from this album just the vibe of it, and while the vibe is nice for a bit I’d still rather be doing other things than sit here by lake for a while.
Pretty good listen, I like the vibe, a few saves, love the instrumental, nice voices, the one thing I didn’t like is in The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down the voice reminds me too much of Cleveland Brown from Family Guy but other than that it is probably my second favorite on the album
Rag mama rag llevándose toda la calificación 👌👌👌👌
Great album! The hits you know and a lot of cool. other songs
Nearly unlistenable in 2025
I have a soft spot for this kind of music. Its easy listening and often beautiful.
Completely passed me by until now. Shuddered at the description of a ‘concept album’ but it sounded far more recent than 1969. Enjoyed. Will I add it to repeat listening? Yes!
Pretty solid record. Not my thing, but I get it. They should hook up with Bob Dylan or something.
Decent, like the vibe. Nothing stuck out.
Everyone wants to talk about how “Music from Big Pink” changed music and made this band legendary and this album proves that’s horseshit. THIS is the real debut of The Band as an institution. I don’t have a whole lot bad to say; every song is good, the arrangements are on point, and nothing overstays its welcome. Just a hell of a good time.
Up on Cripple Creek and The Night They Drove Dixie Down are two of my favorite Band tracks! There are a couple meh tracks on here too. It is a really good background album and ends with a real solid 3 song stretch of songs I wasn't very familiar with. I will be adding this album to the rotation.
Wow! First time hearing The Band. Something I would listen to again. Beautiful arrangements, melodies and stringy guitar sounds. Sounds nostalgic.
Listened on my drive to Selkirk. I mean it's considered a classic for a reason. Incredible storytelling, top notch musicianship, classic harmonies. Somehow never really heard much of The Band outside of The Weight and was pleasantly surprised.
This album has been part of the soundtrack to my life for many years. It makes me feel like I am in a happy home surrounded with people I love. There is not a dud on there as far as I am concerned. I will probably add “Cripple Creek” to the playlist.
No. 68 Great album first time hearing most of the songs but really enjoyed it. Love the vibes
3.5 na vdd
é the band
Nothing stood out in this. It was fine. Generic 60's folk rock.
I'm not super familiar with both of their music, but for some reason I always thought the Grateful Dead did the Cripple Creek song. Anyway, the album is fine. Not great, not bad. an easy 2.5. I'll give it a 3 here since I had fun imagining Kermit sing a couple songs
Uninspiring
My rating 3.5
pretty good, last song is a banger
Not bad tunes but the message definitely doesn't fit with today's views. Solid C rating for me
to me, The Band is a very under-rated band. very good album and is just as good today.
I have always thoroughly enjoyed the band's greatest hits. And they have some of my ALL TIME favorite songs like Up On Cripple creek and The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down. And I love their salt of the earth sound. Bur after listening to this album, I think I will stick to their greatest hits. Every song i never heard before kinda stank.
Classic Band, Classic alblum. Rounded up to a 4.0
Great upbeat album
It's cool, but not really my thing
2.5 good but not my style
People love The Band, and I’ve never really understood why. I think they’re FINE, but I’ve never been wowed by them. I’ve seen people say that they’re better if you really listen closely, or listen many times, or that they play so well you can’t tell they’re playing well. And maybe all that is true, but does that mean that they’re GREAT? I don’t know. So though many people think this album is GREAT, I think it’s FINE.
I have tried to listening to The Band earlier and the conclusion has always been that it is just not my cup of tea. Some people really like this americana, southern, folk rock style but I can’t really get into it. A couple of songs stand a little bit out (you can guess which two) and the rest is just okay. Favourite songs (yeah, you guessed it): Up on Crickle Creek, The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down.
Nice!
honestly didn’t enjoy this one as much as i thought i would
Across the Divide 3.6 Rag Mama Rag 3.2 The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down 4 When You Awake 3.6 Up on Cripple Creek 4.1 Whispering Pines 3.5 Jemima Surrender 3.7 Rockin' Chair 3.4 Look Out Cleveland 3.5 Jawbone 3.1 The Unfaithful Servant 3.2 King Harvest (Has Surely Come) 3.6 Score: 3.541666667
Goddamn these boys were at the peak of their game here. Monster tracks, monster drums, and a trio of vocalists who never before nor since shall be matched. Shame about the vaguely apparently dixie apologia, Ol' William Tecumseh Sherman should have finished the job, it becomes clearer and clearer.
Favorite Tracks: Up On Cripple Creek / Look Out Cleveland / Jawbone Rating: 2.9 I've heard this album a few times before; while not my favorite genre, I can dig the folksy, southern rock vibes that never fully stray into country. And Up On Cripple Creek is an all time banger. The multiple vocalists are cool. I'd have to be in exactly the right frame of mind to put this on -- by a lake with a beer? next to a campfire with a doobie? apparently just not sober? -- but I can appreciate the musicality and that this is a seminal album that defined a certain sound for a lot of music that came afterwards.
The coziness and warmth of this album brings me joy. Very few bands in history could pull off a song like The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down. A masterpiece.
My favorite album from them. The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down makes me want to cry every time I hear it
There is a band playing in The Band for the album named The Band.
It's a band playing roots rock very well.
primeiro self titled :D FAVS (top 3): the night they drove old dixie down, up on cripple creek, look out cleveland mençoes honrosas: rag mama rag, jemima surrender, rockin' chair, the unfaithful servant, king harvest (has surely come) compraria o vinil: NAO um bom album mas sinceramente nao curti mt nao, é bom, mas nem tanto KKKKKKKK, mas é ouvivel nota final: 3.5/5
Not a fan.
Ok why haven't I ever heard of the amazing band? I meant THE Band of course. Huge Beatles vibes, I love it! 5/5
ok once again i’ve never heard of these. ok wait i’m quite enjoying it so far.. very catchy first two songs. these are quite fun. there’s been no songs i’ve disliked so far, all have been distinctive to me which is unusual for a first listen. i think i like this one and will listen more fr. up on cripple creek is a banger what the hell. i can’t get it out of my head 😭😭😭
good, reminded me of hank williams, waylon jennings etc
It's clearly a well made album and the production is great but the music doesn't really do anything for me. Standout tracks are Rockin Chair and The Unfaithful Servant. Good listen but won't be revisiting
Not fore me.
Clearly were a really great foundation for other artists to build from, but to the modern ear there's nothing that unique
eugh
Didn't love this one. It did nothing for me. I'm not really into old time folk/country and old Americana often grosses me out. There's nothing really standout here or interesting. Standouts are "Rag Mama Rag" and "The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down" and that's a stretch. 2/5, next...
What a great album. The album keeps a consistent feel across the whole thing.
impossível ouvir isso aqui e achar uma vibe, olha o que você fez beatles
I really enjoyed it. Only heard a few of their bigger hits. Lots of train songs so that’s a plus.
Kendi tarzına göre iyi ama çok sarmadı
Jaming with ma friends la hoo hooo
Another one l own but don't listen to a bunch. Actually a really good album.
Not usually one to say this bc I like SO MANY different bands & different genres, but The Band is not my cup of tea. I can think of other bands like them that I love but I can't catch this vibe for some reason. And when I found them on Spot I was already following them but probably for a song on a different album.
wasn’t paying much attention because I was listening while working, but it was good!
The night they drove old dixie down is a banger. Rocking chair also was good. Overall pretty solid album. I am a sucker for folk rock/southern rock tho. The Unfaithful Servant and King Harvest (will surely come) I also liked.
Listened to in the car so didn’t get to hear it all too well but I’ve listened before. Think I might want to give it a 3 stars but I think realistically it’s a 2
meh
Sounds like everything else from that era, nothing about it stands out.
A solid 4/5 for this one.
Second time I listened I had slowed down enough to get the groove. I moved it from a 2 to a 3.
Hyvää musaa, pitää kuunnella uudestaan ehdottomasti. 3,25/5.
It was ok. Nothing to get excited about
Just alright. Kinda boring. 2
Not my cup tea and Levon Helm sounds like fozzie bear.
bookends are great, but the slower songs are not doing it for me. 3.5
not what i typically listen to and probably won't listen again but was enjoyable nevertheless.
The Band rocks
Decent. The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down is clearly the superior song out of the bunch though.
Bog standard country folk. A bit meh.
meio devagar e não consegui get into it
One of my favourite albums, period. So good I had to rethink the ratings I already had given out. Highlights: Up on Cripple Creek, The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down, Rag Mama Rag, Unfaithful Servant.
à reécouter mais j'aime trop ce groupe #poulet
Decent if not generic rock album.
Didn't like the Band then, didn't like the band now. Did not find it interesting at all.
seminal american album. influential and a true product of its time.
It was okay. Guitar work on the album was awesome
I fell behind but this one was cool! I’m a little suspicious of some of the lyrics since it’s so old though…
This was ok, but kinda boring
classic
Watched a fascinating and tragic rockumentary on these guys. They are from my preferred musical era - yet somehow had missed them. I had high hopes. Turns out, nothing particularly challenging or special about this album….which ultimately means all the inter-band tension and drug abuse was a complete, self-absorbed waste.
Fine. This is a kind of music that I don't find inspiring, but it is enjoyable.
Great songs, good groove. Much better production than expected. Wouldn't mind listening to again.
Overall Rating - 3.67/5 (7.33/10). Well done music. Country-ish, folk-ish, rock-ish.
I just didn’t like it that much
Good but Jawbone is next level good.
classic
I like the instrumental on "Rag Mama Rag". Very surprised by the tone of "Whispering Pines", in a good way ! Overall didn't really like it tho, not my vibe :(
Didn’t quite click for me.
Swampy. Extra star for union support.
Was ok...
It's alright. It's verging on something I would enjoy but misses the mark.
Nice, kinda oldschool
good fishing album/music, a little too country for my taste personally
Listened about half way though the album before I getting bored and DNFing it. Americana country isn't a genre I've ever been all that into, and the music and lyrics didn't grab my attention enough to keep my interest. Did a but of reading on Helm and The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down to learn the intent behind the song, which did contribute to my disinterest in finishing the album. Not too interested in listening to music made in part by someone who would probably be offended by being told they shouldn't fly the Confederate flag.
Not bad, just not my vibe, probably won't listen to it again.
Can see how this influenced so many followers in the next decade or so.
A classic.
Definitely need to relisten when I'm not so terribly busy.
A stone cold classic
The Band is often held up as a classic, but for me it lands firmly in the “perfectly OK” category. There are moments of quality throughout, but they’re offset by stretches that feel dull and unremarkable. Nothing here really grabbed me or made me want to return for another listen. The musicianship is good but the album never truly lifts itself beyond competent Americana. It’s pleasant enough while it’s on, yet it fades quickly once it’s finished, leaving little behind that lingers or demands revisiting. Favourite tracks: The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down is a genuinely nice song, and Jawbone was another highlight. Least favourite track: When You Awake was dull, to say the least. Album artwork: A standard, no-frills band album cover.
i dont remember + boring name
Sounds like every other 60s wannabe blues band
Not for me sorry
A great Americana album with really original sounding music that is just laid back and swingin' like on a hammock. These guys really are masters of this genre and made a very interesting and listenable album. Being the back up band for Dylan really allowed them to hone their craft and it is overwhelmingly amazing.
I don't want to rate this three stars, but it had so much high and low for me. I'm going to give it 4 just to spite the 2-3 stars I've given. This really isn't bad. It's enjoyable. Not enjoyable enough that I wouldn't just reach for CCR or something when I'm in the mood for this, but it made for a good enough time working.
You had me at cripple.
I feel like if you made a song called “Up On Crippled Creek” these days, the internet would lose its shit. Solid listen, but a bit too country folksy for me at times. 3.5⭐️
4.5
Standard
3/10 Top track: Look Out Cleveland
Sounds nice, you understand why it was so influential, but in 2025 it's kind of ...there?
Pretty good folk pop. I wouldn't listen to this on my own, but I wouldn't complain if someone else played some of these songs. 3/5
Outstanding stuff honestly, been meaning to get into more of their stuff
Lots of great songs with a fair bit of filler.
I just couldn't get into it sorry.
Not my bag.
Pretty forgettable in my ears, and not something I'll reach for again
I always enjoyed music by the Band, and this album has a few of their best songs. Apparently this album is considered their best. As mentioned before, I’m always impressed by foreign artists who have a good knowledge of US history and write sings about it - in this case Robbie Robertson. Also, few (if any) bands are the subject of a Martin Scorcese film.
They get points for The Band name. Otherwise, I was sad that the one song I know by them wasn't on here - 'A Horse with No Name' - until I learned that's actually a different Band, named "America". Not sure how I screwed that one up. I got very garden-pathed by the title 'When You Awake'. 'The Unfaithful Servant' is kind of giving Counting Crows vibes. These guys might be Canadian, but it's not enough to save them from the terrible 2s. Canadian country-folk-oldies, right in the bin. Highlight: 'Up on Cripple Creek'
Middling southern(?) rock that sounds alright. A couple of sorta nonsense songs. I’ve never really listened to the band recreationally and I’m not sure I will again.
3 so far -- good first listen The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down Whispering Pines
I was familiar with Dixie and Cripple Creek, but enjoyed finally hearing the whole album. I can see how they influenced a wide range of artists and helped shape a sound, but not quite enough to get that 5th star.
Pretty good blues and rock n roll. I'm a little biased towards this band, but they have some genuinely classic tunes. I wouldn't call it anything revolutionary, but it's a generally enjoyable listen. Love how the drums have some expression to them instead of being produced to hell and lifeless.
Pretty inoffensive 60s country. No real standout tracks but some decent listens on this album. Overall fairly meh but it gets a 2.5-3/5 for me for being quite listenable.
I just don’t like these guys. Did not like this and it’s arguably their best album. 🤷♂️
Pretty mid but not bad.
Ganz nett
Great vibe, love the production from this era. Cripple creek is great, and overall I really enjoyed this album but I think it needs more listens to really settle in to it. I hope theirs more the band albums coming.
I would love to be sitting in a small venue listening to these guys
Quite cool, interesting that they were Bob Dylan’s first electric band too!
This was just fine. Southern rock.
not very enjoyable. liked maybe 3 songs
I’ve decided that 3 stars is my default rating to say that an album is pretty good!
We're close enough to American Thanksgiving for it to still be "The Band" season so my body was perfectly set up to take in this album. Some good looking out the window of a moving car music.
Mid, ingenting catchy, blitt for bluesete for meg Sorry villiam og sander
It’s just not for me.
3/5 just some timeless classic rock from a timeless classic band
Didn't know about them, but they go hard! Nice 70s rock
A bonafide Canadian classic. A record that radiates a feeling of collaboration and friendship amongst its creators throughout. Surely, any self-respecting musician wishes they wrote The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down.
Gar nicht meine Musik, aber ziemlich gut gemacht.
This is decent for what it is. It nails early Americana, and potentially stands as an early blueprint for Southern Rock, but it lacks that hook I want from a classic. It’s solid but didn't really move the needle for me. Spins: 1 Playlist Additions - The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down - Up On Cripple Creek - King Harvest (Has Surely Come)
It's like their contemporaries did this genre so much better and they were late to the musical fad.
I love the fact that perhaps THE most influential Americana album is almost fully Canadian. I grew up with this music, but think for most of my life I've taken it for granted. It actually took until listening to it yesterday in its entirety , and doing a little bit of reading on just how influential it has been, for me to register how significant The Band really was. The hits on this album speak for themselves. Not many songs have influenced pop music embracing bluegrass inspired harmonies as The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down. Up On Cripple Creek may have the funkiest honkey tonk vibes of any top 40 songs ever. Then there are the subtle ballad tracks that showcase The Band's exceptional songwriting. All of it come together perfectly for form an album that is perfectly well rounded. This album makes me want to sit out under the stars at a campfire and I love that feeling.
The Band is yet another band where I am incredibly familiar with their more well known songs, but not terribly familiar with their back catalogue. This is clearly because I've watched the Last Waltz several times, but never stopped to listen to any of their studio albums. This album does have several of the well known Band tracks like Rag Mama Rag, The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down, Up on Cripple Creek, and King Harvest (Has Surely Come) and honestly, those songs alone are going to drive a pretty high rating for me.
Solid for what it was
From my understanding without looking anything up, The Band was originally Bob Dylan's backing band and they'd record and - maybe tour as well?? - with him. BUT after Dylan's motorcycle accident I suppose they got more free time to do other stuff. Well stuff that isn't speculation, is that this album is a nice combination of folk and country and rock, it gives me strong CCR vibes. "Up On Cripple Creek" verse melody sounds like the verse melody from a song from their previous album, "The Weight." Speaking of "The Weight" the first song on THIS album says something about a woman named Molly which "The Weight" mentions as well, I wonder if its inspired or just a name the songwriter really likes. This is a good album in a after having recently gone through mostly mediocre albums. Highlight Song/s: Rag Mama Rag, When You Awake, Up On Cripple Creek and Jawbone
Yet another country folk rock band with an album of dreary songs reminiscing fondly of a past when racists could be more proudly racist. This album didn't age well in its subject matter nor its musical content.
I never really listened to “the Band” but the album was pretty good and I recognized a few of the songs that had gotten radio play in the 70s-80s. 3.5 STARS
top
2.5
It took a bunch of Canadians, with just one American, to make one of the greatest albums about the American experience.
I remember the first time I heard this I didn't think anything of it. Not sure what I was thinking, because The Band's self titled is great! Love the variety of tones on display. Upbeat songs, downtrodden songs. Interesting vocals as well! *Heard before
This is in the 4.5 category for me. Very close to 5 stars.
I don't know what is more bland and boring, the band name, the album name or the band itself. I just don't get so many of the picks on this list.
I really like this album, but with one exception. It’s hard to get behind any song that glorifies the antebellum era. Even though “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down,“ has a very “poor man fighting a rich man’s war” tone about it, the references to Robert E Lee being one of the “very best,“ and his brother, taking a “rebel stand,“ are part of a broader misrepresentation of what the Civil War was about that is still quite common to this day. Take those lyrics away, or remove the track entirely, and this is definitely an all-time great album.
More complex in all facets than it first appears. I was going to say that, like Dr. Hook, they are best when they don’t take themselves or life seriously; however, on second listen, there is a lot of thought that went into creating and performing these songs. Worth studying.
I don't love it, even though I know it's heretical stance for The Band. Singing doesn't do it for me. Music's OK.
If this album were to be removed from services would The Band by The Ban be on a list of The Banned?? Regardless, This Band of The Band put out a really good record called The Band. 4/5
Definitely Midwestern rock, not bad but wouldn’t listen to again
I'm not super knowable on folk-rock, but I had a lot of fun with this. Will be listening to more!
There's some warmth to this music, lightness, nostalgia... really speaks to me
The monochrome picture on the cover gives a clue to the territory we’re in; roots Americana and a decent dose of nostalgia. Overall the album is an American elegy, though for what version of America it’s hard to tell; odd given that most of The Band were Canadian. King Harvest is the only track that suggests any musical versatility or any real musical energy if it comes to that. The money track, The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down still makes me uncomfortable. Sure, it’s not a glorification of the Confederate cause and it’s primarily about poverty and social class (the protagonist is no pharaoh) but nostalgia is a powerful weapon in a political cause and this one has had a long afterlife. In any case, it’s not as good a song as many seem to think it is. Overall this album left me feeling mainly indifference. It’s just not that special and very overhyped.
Don’t know why this group never got my interest. Heard the songs so many times growing up they seem important. But in the end I can turn this off at any time and not miss it.
Across the Great Divide - 4/5 Rag Mama Rag - 5/5 The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down - 5/5 When You Awake - 3/5 Up on Cripple Creek - 4/5 Whispering Pines - 4/5 Jemima Surrender - 4/5 Rockin' Chair - 4/5 Look Out Cleveland - 3/5 Jawbone - 4/5 The Unfaithful Servant - 3/5 King Harvest (Has Surely Come) - 4/5 Average score: 3.9/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ this was a huge step up from their debut album in my opinion
having 3 main singers is a pretty cool idea that more bands should do. i wasn't liking this band much until i read their history. I can't see myself putting on this album willingly any time -- it's too soft, too folk for my tastes -- but i wouldn't mind hearing any of these songs come up on shuffle. a solid 3 star album.
2 all-time classics. The rest is not too shabby either.
Just good, classic, late 60s early 70s music. This type of genre helped inspire music today.
Great blend of classic genres, and their songs are full of lyrical content.
Ganz alter Woodstock Kram. Ja kann man hören, muss aber auch nicht. Gute Melodien. Am Tag als Conny Kramer starb!
Kind of a Southern rock thing. Not really my cup of tea. I appreciate the musicianship, but I don't care for the style of music.
Um álbum bem "road songs". Tem uma sonoridade interessante. É um estilo que curto, mas não apresenta nada de muito incrível. Melhor do álbum: "Up On Cripple Creek". Pior do álbum: "The Unfaithful Servant".
Um álbum de uma banda chamada a banda. Eu não sei por que eu esperava algo inovador… Músicas de trilha sonora de filme sessão da tarde de maneira geral, sem muita personalidade
Legendary band, great songs. King Harvest was really enjoyable and a standout song out of the ones I didn't recognize.
A great debut album
Before this album, I only knew the Band’s “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down.” I was excited to listen to this iconic rock band, and I feel my expectations of their music were met and exceeded. Their big song is reflective of their usual folk rock sound, but “Up On Cripple Creek” was funky, I swear it. A lot of artists dabble in folk rock, but I feel like the Band has a unique sound. Other folk rock musicians never quite had the Band’s country aspect. Perhaps Tom Petty and Bruce Springsteen are the most similar to the Band? 3.5, rounding up to 4 for the chill listen.
Album 1000 for me! Another iconic act that set the stage for 1970s folk. I kind of look at this album as having the same level of influence on the genre as Crosby Still Nash and Young's Deja Vu album, but where Deja Vu leaned more folk rock, this leans a bit more country rock. I hear a lot of Bob Dylan-isms in here, too, but infinitely more tolerable (both from a vocal and a harmonica perspective). I do appreciate this album, and its presence on this project, even if it wasn't an absolute favorite!
Not bad, don't have much to say, it was decent, but nothing caught my ear.
The Band's second best album (behind 'The Music from Big Pink,' but it's very close). This album is very re-listenable and full of greatness. Throw this album on to have a good, old fashioned hang with backgammon and whiskey. Top tracks: "The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down," "Up on Cripple Creek," "Rag Mama Rag," "Across the Divide," "Whispering Pines"
--Across the Great Divide...a quality rocker --Rag Mama Rag...see above --The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down...meh --When You Awake...not feeling this --Up on Cripple Creek...this is funky fresh --Whispering Pines...plodding --Jemima Surrender...I prefer their more up-tempo tunes like this one --Rockin' Chair...this walks the fine line between comfort and corny --Look Out Cleveland...another solid but not great track --Jawbone...this is kind of an odd jig. I like the backend groove --The Unfaithful Servant...sloppy like Dylan --King Harvest (Has Surely Come)...a fun funky closer
C L A S S I C
Not quite. I know they were very influential for the rest of Americana and I like Robbie Robertson‘s other work. I just didn’t quite do it for me this morning.
Really more like a 2.5. Didn’t quite hit for me
A beleza na simplicidade. Acho difícil escrever sobre o disco homônimo da BANDA. É um country-rock até que simplório e previsível, mas não há nada de errado em deixar a roda como está, sem necessidade de uma reinvenção. Arroz e feijão bem feitos e bem executados sempre serão palatáveis. As harmonias são muito gostosas de se ouvir. É incrível o poder de ter tantos vocalistas em um grupo só. Uma pitadinha de honky tonk só pra dar uma texturizada nas canções. Gruda no cabeçote e te leva por aí, vamos comer mato, sei lá. Me lembra Creedence, até são da mesma época, mas A Banda é às vezes mais cartunesca, se é que me entende. De vez em quando um dos vocalistas me lembra algum personagem de algo como Vila Sésamo. Nada a ver? Coisa da minha cabeça, talvez. De todo modo, um disco legal, consigo ver o valor aqui. Não mudou minha vida e provavelmente não pensarei mais nesse álbum, mas foi uma escuta legal e agradável. A segunda metade me satisfaz bem mais que a primeira, só pra deixar registrado aqui. 4/5
Quite enjoyed this one. Easy to listen to and a good mix of instruments.
The most southern stuff I've enjoyed since Kurt Vile. The night they drove old Dixie down is an all timer song. Feels very 70s but they were onto something here. It doesn’t hit the highs I felt like they could have, maybe a rick Ruben or someone could have pushed them just over the edge to make this a legendary record. Almost
Of its time.
Really excellent record. I had only heard “Up on Cripple Creek” and “The Weight” and “Atlantic City” before this. This is just great, laid back folk rock with some real teeth later in the album, “King Harvest” is the highlight for me for sure. Fantastic organ, bass playing, throughout.
A great encapsulation of time and place. The Dixie imagery was a little dated but otherwise, a good album.
Knew some of the songs but there were some nice surprises.
LOVED!
Americana's early roots, lot more like soft rock. Eagles ish
The review.
I've always thought The Band was overrated and boring, typical 70s 'rock' band. This album doesn't really change that impression. Also, can't stand Levon Holm's voice, dude sounds like a redneck retard. There are a couple of tracks that stood out - 'Cripple Creek' has an interesting beat and groove and the chorus of 'Jawbone' has a cool riff and weird time signature that I like (verses are boring as hell though). 'Look Out Cleveland' is a good rock song and the track that stood out the most to me musically, 'Jemima Surrender' fell apart as soon as the lyrics came in and I realized it was all about Levon Helm wanting to get with Aunt Jemima and refusing to take no for an answer.
While I respect this album. Personally, not my cup of tea.
decent
I don't know if I quite "get" The Band, but all in all these guys are helluva great group of musicians, and I can see why a concert film like The Last Waltz is considered one of the all time greats. I bet The Band was a site to see live. The Brown Album as a whole was solid. Couple of hits while the deeper cuts hold their own with a hint of silliness.
Good stuff but most of these songs I've heard so much I don't care if I ever hear them again. Up On Cripple Creek is the exception, still love hearing that one.
An album recorded in Southern California by a group of Canadians that encapsulates the Deep South and Americana folk rock in a way that feels authentic
A pleasant listen, but nothing really clicks for me.
They really diverged from the sound on the last record with the swooning Deep Purple-esque organ driving the songs. There’s way more of a folk country roots rock feel here. It’s a good record. It’s a catchy sound and worth a spin. Good songs, good production.
Well, I at least liked this better than the other the Band album I've gotten on here. I thought the first half was pretty strong. The second half fell off a bit and felt more boring. Still, I thought it was mostly solid, with a couple really good songs. Overall: 2.8/5
The band, love it!
Solid 60-70s rock, with some clever variations, but nothing super special.
Great album first time hearing most of the songs but really enjoyed it
I enjoyed it! Perfect autumn vibes! I liked “Across The Great Divide” and “King Harvest”. I’d listen again.
I really enjoyed Music from Big Pink but this one skewed a little too Grateful Dead for my taste--which is not great, Bob.
Country rock, didn't like it.
I recall watching The Last Waltz on HBO when I was around 14 or so. I knew some of the performers, but wasn't really into The Band at the time. I was transfixed by their playing, and The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down became an instant favorite song of mine. I was disappointed to find out that they were breaking up, but I did see them (sans Robbie Robertson) a few times in the 80's before the deaths of other key members. I was very excited to see this come up on the generator and had a very enjoyable drive to work listening to music I've loved since I was a teen. I haven't listened to the album in ages, and found the harmonies even better than I even recalled. A song I'm not even sure registered back then, Whispering Pines, was a real standout today.
4/10
Probably a very influential album, but not for me. Liked the Old Dixie song tho.
Average
Across the divide reminded me of “Yellow Submarine”. Easy listening. Country rock.
it's alright, i don't really like it
Duh, more overly earnest really quite tortuous Dad Rock 😏
Pretty fun. It's giving "toy story" more than randy Newman! Heh.
It has two all time bangers and then a sad, autumnal vibe the rest of the time. I like this album but it's just okay
eh, didn't hold my attention
Pretty good. Bass goes bananas.
Very nice
I hope I like this record purely because the name is funny Across the Great Divide: not bad for what it is but I don't find it interesting personally *Rag Mama Rag: bluesy and catchy. dude's going nuts on the keys The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down: by far the most listened song on here but I think it's kind of mid. his voice doesn't sound as nice here, it's a little Kermit-y. is it a different vocalist? When You Awake: it's okay Up on Cripple Creek: classic country with a funky lil bassline and a smidge of Elton John. it's not bad. *Whispering Pines: beautiful track, just moseys along. it's a cool blend of sounds, the electric keyboard(?) fills out the background nicely when it comes in. Jemima Surrender: objectively a good song, it's just not my thing Rockin' Chair: not bad Look Out Cleveland: it's not bad *Jawbone: I like the lo-fi vocals in the chorus. nothing mindblowing but this one has a lot of character *The Unfaithful Servant: the drums dragging a bit make the song feel like it's barely holding itself together. cool vibe, vocals are nibbling *King Harvest (Has Surely Come): that electric keyboard is the star of this album for real "we have Creedence Clearwater Revival at home." it's not a bad album but it's really just not the type of thing I'd put on or come back to regularly. the back half of the record is actually better even though it seems like the hits are all front-loaded __ SCORE: 6/10 ADDED TO PLAYLIST: Rag Mama Rag, Whispering Pines, Jawbone, The Unfaithful Servant, King Harvest (Has Surely Come)
Like it
Christian music Excellent Band…Music
awesome fucking badass band name. the first song reminded me of ‘You’ve got a friend in me’
Fun moments, middle of the road America, didn't dislike, just didn't do much for me. 2/5 stars
Sounds like alt-country; nothing particularly interesting.
Much more familiar than I would have expected. 3.
Kanadensisk herpa derp
One of the best!
Soulful, roots, bluesy folk rock. Simple, straightforward tunes where the feeling is more important than the technical prowess. Not that the band cant play, the are obviously perfectly tight. Love the variety of vocals. Its catchy, warm, emotional and real. Favourite track - Jemima Surrendor, Up on Cripple Creek and King Harvest. 8.5/10
Really never could understand the massive appeal of The Band. This doesn't change that fact.
Fantastic
Oninteressant op alle vlakken, niet dat het echt slecht was, maar wat staat dit in een belangrijkste albums-lijst te doen?
The Band's second album features the original version of the classic Country-Rock song "The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down" (which was a much bigger hit for Joan Baez than it was for The Band); it also features "Up on Cripple Creek".
Not my normal thing, but it’s good stuff - I’d need to return to it to appreciate it better, but for now this rating will do. I particularly liked whispering pines.
Respect gets it to three. Not my jam.
i was satisfied but not excited.
Really enjoyed it. Good songs.
2.4/5 This sounds like if you ordered a weird mix between CCR and Lynyrd Skynyrd on Temu. It's honestly very generic in a pretty niche setting. Not thaaaat bad, but also not my kind of beer.
Very warm listening, quite enjoyable to hear the notes of early Americana music. Wouldn't say there's necessarily any standout tracks or moments, aside from a strong opener 'Across the Great Divide'.
These guys are siiiiiiiiiiickkkkk. I regrettably never listened to The Band but this rec had me listen to their whole discography. I'm a mega fan now, these guys were rocking.
Vraiment bof j'aime pas le style
Sympa sans plus
Très sympa, des mecs de l'époque des beatles qui font pas exactement du beatles ça change. J'ai oscillé avec le 4
Ended up listening to this one twice, which is a good sign. Might end up a 5 star album after some more thought. I read that this came out 4 days after abbey Road. Which is extremely bad timing
If you don’t like the band by the band the band you should be banned.
I like the sort of old weird America collective vibe and the way it throws back and forward: spooky country blues, plangent folkiness, electric rock. The big songs are big and the small ones are small. More of a parallel cosmos than hook-laden pleasure.
Struggling for words to describe The Band’s sound—rootsy and rocking, spare but also emotionally resonant is the best I can come up with. “Cripple Creek” may actually be my least favorite because I’ve heard it too many times; there are so many gems other than that. “The Unfaithful Servant,” for example.
It's always been funny to me that such an excellent encapsulation of the history, culture, and above all, sound of the American South came from a group of (mostly) Canadians. Maybe it's that slight degree of separation that allowed them to pull this off - The Band would have the familiarity needed to feel at home in the American folk sound while having the opportunity to view the American project as outsiders relatively unencumbered by the baggage that Americans inherit. What truly stands out to me in this project, particularly when compared to some of the takes on similar subject matter from the same time period, is the empathy that the Band brings to the lyrics and music. Unlike fellow Canadian Neil Young, the Band are primarily interested in understanding the South rather than providing their own commentary. Both musically and lyrically, they do this through an examination of the common man. Though more modern readings have tended to view it as an apologetic take on the Confederacy, "The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down" is a perfect example of this empathy. It mourns the fall of the Confederacy by focusing on the implications and motivations for the poor white man caught up in the wheels of history. We get a picture of someone unconcerned with slavery and secession and without the luxury of considering the morality of the conflict. He thinks in terms of his family, his livelihood, and their connection to the land on which he lives. Yes, the song may help to feed the Lost Cause myth among those inclined to defend it. But standing alone, the song is striking in its ability to relate to someone in a very different place, time, and political climate. Musically, the Band consistently present unorthodox but interesting instrumental combinations. In keeping with the folk feel of the album, many songs sound as though they were played live with whatever instruments the group had on hand. It serves as a stark contrast to the studio experimentation and psychedelic soundscapes so popular in the late '60s. The album doesn't rely on much in the way of virtuoso performances from any one member of the band, but just about every element is dripping with character. What this adds up to is an understated record that gets better with each listen. While it may not be loaded with hit singles, it paradoxically explores the culture and heritage of the South more authentically than just about anything else that has come out since.
In a world of rock bands trying to tastefully countrify their sounds (1960-present), The Band is so much better that they make the rest obsolete. Gram Parsons can stick around, but that’s about it. Couple records by the Band and that’s all the Classic Americana a guy needs. Sorry, that’s just the way it is.
Decent album. Nothing really stood out as being particularly good or bad. 2.5 rounding down.
It was fine
Very nice album, I get a vibe like Grateful Dead , enjoy it, 7
Fine.
Definitely important but not really what o felt like listening to.
Das Album hat Potential und ist gut zu hören. Würde ich kaufen
The original psychedelic country/folk. Such a cool sound they achieved through the whole album. A great listen throughout with some peaks on the top songs. I enjoy the vocals in their sort of offbeat way, and theirs varied instrumental sounds such as the organ and what I think is a guitar that sounds like a frog
Excellent album. A real mix of country, folk, Dixie jam and a little bit funky in places. The Band must have been great to see live as they just come across as a natural jamming group. There are a couple of dud tracks but some great ones too.
Pretty strong record - top-notch performances by everyone here. Lots of variety and doesn't surprise me that everybody here picks up different instruments on each track. It is a musician's album through and through but also strong song craft. Super rootsy and organic, even pulls off a Confederate track without really stepping in it. Doesn't always keep my full interest but it's regularly very good throughout.
It's a masterpiece A country rock classic in every sense of the way. Some massive songs, some quiet jams. Playful and jammy instrumentation and three iconic vocalist who are giving it all. R. I. P Manuel Danko and Helm. Adding to that Robertson writing which shines here, and every single time Hudson touches any instrument, what can you say.. What an incredible record Can't believe I didn't listen to the entire thing earlier. It's gotta be a strong fat 5
did't even listen and it's banger.
Ganz cool, bleibt aber nicht im gedächtnis. Steve Miller mit creedence
Zuerst noch ok, dann wurde es immer egaler bis ich’s nicht mehr hören konnte. Zur Mitte abgebrochen
Das erste Album hier, das mich gequält hat. Habe es durchgehalten, war aber mehrmals kurz davor, abzubrechen. Langweilig, altbacken, viel Rumgepose. Mochte Lyrics und Gesang nicht. 2 Sterne, weil sich die einzelnen Instrumente schön raushören lassen und da immer mal wieder coole Ideen aufblitzen.
Original originals. Songs are like a rocking history class. The Band is the BAND.
It's not horrible, but it sure felt long for being 40 minutes.
Another solid roots rock outing from The Band, although it did start blending a bit by the end of the album. They're giving us a whole lot of folk rock lately.
I get that The Band (stupid name) is influential and that explains why they are on the list. But even still I wonder why they have TWO albums on this list, both of which are such a massive waste of time. I hated this more than the other one, whose name I can’t even remember at this point. I did not enjoy the singing, which sounded out of tune sometimes. I did not enjoy the cacophony of instruments. I did not enjoy the style of music. Once again, PLEASE let’s leave this behind in the 60s.
It's always these fuckass 60s albums that have you wondering why they're on the list, until you dig a little deeper and find out that they inspired basically every artist in their generation. I can't argue with history, I suppose, but the yodeling goes too far for me personally Standouts: Whispering Pines • Jemima Surrender • King Harvest (Has Surely Come)
I was listening to this while driving around without cell reception today, so Spotify only loaded half the album. I was very excited and thought it had way more punch and energy than Songs From Big Pink. Unfortunately, I listened to the second half later and it wasn't very good.
Great album. I was already such a fan of "Up on Cripple Creek" and "The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down" but I really enjoyed listening to the entire album. The Band is one of my favorite bands. Just tremendous talent.
Disco de feel good folksy pero no hippie (palabras de Pablo). Muy bueno de acompañamiento o haciendo tareas de casa o así, o de viaje.