Showing posts with label 1971. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 1971. Show all posts

Monday, January 13, 2020

1971 - "One of These Things First" - Nick Drake

It was in 2005 when I first heard "One of These Things First" by Nick Drake, a British folk artist totally unbeknownst to me. Buried on the Garden State soundtrack from the 2004 film, this track is one of those wonderful gems you sometimes stumble upon.

The longing lyrics paint a sad "could of, should of, would of" anthem while the mellow vocals, running piano and acoustic guitar weave together to create an exquisite arrangement of uplifting folk jazz. I can envision the whimsical music appearing on a Charlie Brown special.

Too bad that Nick Drake's apparent reluctance to perform live or be interviewed contributed to his lack of commercial success. 

1971 Honourable Mentions: 

"Country Roads" – John Denver
That unforgettable chorus is burned inside ourselves for eternity.

"Get It On (Bang a Gong)" – T. Rex
It slinks and swaggers, a glam rock groove with an infectious hook. 

"Riders on the Storm" – The Doors
Pure atmosphere, the echoing guitar, that psychedelic melody.