Scott
Scott's first solo album.
Originally released in 1967 the album features a mix of originals and covers with sweeping, bloated orchestral arrangements, while Walker does his best to imitate the vocal girth of Tony Bennet & Frank Sinatra. A top 3-album when originally released in the UK. Tracks include Tim Hardin's 'Lady Came From Baltimore', Jacques Brel's classic 'Amsterdam' & 'The Big Hurt'.
Listening to Scott Walker's first solo album more than three decades after its appearance is like entering a parallel universe. Those who know the Walker Brothers from pop hits like "The Sun Ain't Gonna Shine" and "Make It Easy on Yourself" may be forgiven, if we are late to appreciate the genius of their lead singer.
Scott has often been named the definitive interpreter of Jacques Brel, and here he proves his mettle on classics such as "Mathilde," "My Death," and "Amsterdam." In addition he pays homage to Tony Bennet with "When Joanna Loved Me" and tips his hat to Toni Fisher with a soulful updating of "The Big Hurt." From Vegas to Broadway, he hits the musical heights, without ever resorting to imitation or parody. And, if that weren't enough, he also writes--gorgeously. Consider the baroque architechtonics of what is arguably his masterpiece, "Montague Terrace," where grandeur and pathos blend in a seamless musical tapestry.
Underscoring it all is Scott's voice, an exquisite instrument without equal in the pantheon of pop music. Like a reluctant Prometheus, he stands above us lesser mortals and bemoans the vanities that alienate us, one from the other, all in a brooding, perfectly modulated baritone. Consider the poignancy of these words from Scott's self-penned "Such a Small Love": "He speaks, I don't hear a word he's saying, / Hang on to the pine trees and the snow; / Reach out, grab the memories that are left for your hand, / They'll help you get by for a while." Take a trip back in time and enter this parallel world. Your ears will thank you.
by A. Hickman
