(S$-30) Bob Dylan – John Wesley Harding (Columbia Records)

Released: December 27, 1967 Recording Dates: October 17, November 6, and November 29, 1967

John Wesley Harding marks Bob Dylan’s striking return in 1967 after his motorcycle accident, showcasing a stark shift from his electric, surreal phase to a stripped-down, country-folk sound. Recorded quickly in Nashville with minimal instrumentation, the album’s sparse arrangements heighten its moral allegories, biblical imagery, and Old West themes. Songs like “All Along the Watchtower” and “I Dreamed I Saw St. Augustine” resonate with haunting simplicity, while “Dear Landlord” and “I’ll Be Your Baby Tonight” hint at Dylan’s coming embrace of country. The record’s understated style stood in deliberate contrast to the psychedelic excesses of its time, influencing The Band, The Byrds, and future Americana artists. Dylan’s newfound restraint, poetic songwriting, and subtle musicianship resulted in one of his most cohesive works, earning critical acclaim and commercial success. John Wesley Harding remains a timeless, genre-defining album that helped shape roots rock and alt-country.

Signature Tracks: John Wesley Harding, I Went Out One Morning, All Along The Watchtower

Full Album: YouTube Spotify
Playlist: YouTube Spotify

(S4-Ep 29) The Who - The Who Sells Out (Decca in US, Track In U.K.)

Released December 15, 1967- Recorded May -November 1967

Released in late 1967, The Who Sell Out is a bold, quirky concept album designed to mimic a pirate radio broadcast, complete with spoof commercials and jingles. It captures The Who at a transitional moment—embracing psychedelia, satire, and studio experimentation, while hinting at their future in grander rock narratives. Tracks like “I Can See for Miles” deliver explosive rock energy, while introspective gems like “Sunrise” and “I Can’t Reach You” showcase Pete Townshend’s growing sophistication as a songwriter. The album doesn’t entirely cohere as a concept and can feel uneven, but it’s a daring, inventive work with a uniquely British sense of humor. While inspired by Sgt. Pepper’s, The Who’s take on the format is more subversive, poking fun at commercialization while ironically being caught in its web. Though not a massive commercial hit in the U.S., it’s now regarded as one of their most creative and influential releases.

Signature Tracks: "I Can See For Miles," "Our Love Was" "I Can't Reach You"

Full Album YouTube Spotify
Playlist: YouTube Spotify

(S4- Ep 28) The Rolling Stones- Their Satanic Majesties Request (Decca)

Released December 8, 1967, Recorded between February 9-October 23, 1967

Their Satanic Majesties Request (1967) is The Rolling Stones’ most adventurous and experimental album, showcasing their willingness to explore new musical landscapes. Embracing the psychedelic spirit of the late 1960s, the band incorporated unconventional instrumentation—such as the Mellotron, dulcimer, and tabla—creating a richly textured sonic experience. Songs like “She’s a Rainbow” and “2000 Light Years from Home” highlight the group’s flair for melody and atmosphere, while Bill Wyman’s “In Another Land” adds a unique and playful touch. The 3D lenticular cover art, designed by Michael Cooper, captures the album’s vibrant, otherworldly tone. With contributions from notable collaborators like John Paul Jones and even uncredited vocals by Lennon and McCartney, the record stands as a collaborative and stylistic milestone. Their Satanic Majesties Request captures a moment of bold creativity in the Stones’ career, offering a colorful, immersive journey that continues to intrigue and inspire listeners decades later.

Signature Tracks: "She's A Rainbow," "In Another Land," "2000 Light Years From Home"

Full Albums: YouTube Spotify
Playlist: YouTube, Spotify