The Band - Music From The Big Pink

Music From The Big Pink is the debut studio album by American folk rock group The Band, originally released in July 1968 via Capitol Records.

None of The Band's previous work gave much of a clue about how they would sound when they released their first album. As it was, Music From The Big Pink came as a surprise. The group seemed to affect the sound of a loose jam session, alternating emphasis on different instruments, while the lead and harmony vocals passed back and forth as if the singers were making up their blend on the spot.

In retrospect, especially as the lyrics sank in, the arrangements seemed far more considered and crafted to support a group of songs that took family, faith, and rural life as their subjects and proceeded to imbue their values with uncertainty. Some songs took on the theme of declining institutions less clearly than others, but the points were made musically as much as lyrically.

Richard Manuel's haunting, lonely voice gave the album much of its frightening aspect, while Rick Danko's and Levon Helm's rough-hewn styles reinforced the songs' rustic fervor. The dominant instrument was Garth Hudson's often icy and majestic organ, while Robbie Robertson's unusual guitar work further destabilized the sound.

The result was an album that reflected the turmoil of the late '60s in a way that emphasized the tragedy inherent in the conflicts. Music From The Big Pink came off as a shockingly divergent musical statement, and initially attracted attention because of the three songs Bob Dylan had either written or co-written. However, as soon as "The Weight" became a minor singles chart entry, the album and the group made their own impact, influencing a movement toward roots styles and country elements in rock.

Over time, Music From The Big Pink came to be regarded as a watershed work in the history of rock, one that introduced new tones and approaches to the constantly evolving genre.

Check out the tracks: The Weight, Tears of Rage, To Kingdom Come, Long Black Veil and I Shall Be Released.

This LP "Back to Black" reissue with Remastered Audio is pressed in Europe on 180 Gram Heavyweight Vinyl with reproduced artwork in a gatefold sleeve and digital download.