For me this is from top to bottom the Velvet underground's best most consistent album. A quieter affair than the 2 previous albums but that doesn't mean that it doesn't rock out, case in point, Beginning to See the Light and What Goes On both showing off Sterling Morrison's rhythm guitar chops which are substantial. Of course John Cale's absence is felt but Doug Yule's bass playing is massively supportive of the song which helps make this Mo Tucker's best performance on record. Just to listen to the dramatic I'm Set Free for all the proof you'll need. This record has 2 of Reed's most achingly beautiful ballads in Jesus and Pale blue Eyes. Throw in Candy Says and you have the foundation for the Velvets greatest achievement and, perhaps, my favorite album period. If I could I'd give it 6 stars