Orange (1972)
Building upon the groundwork already laid out by his first three albums, Al Stewart's "Orange," immediately greets you with a lush soundscape that intertwines folk, rock, and a touch of artistry that begins to define the Al Stewart signature sound. “Orange” is easily an NSA and is arguably his first entry to the No Skip Album list. I may have to go back and add his second album “Love Chronicles” to the NSA list as the more and more I listen to it, the more I love every second of it. That being said, “Orange” is a very consistent record showcasing Al do what Al does best.
"You Don't Even Know Me" opens the album with a gentle guitar-driven melody that shows off Stewart's distinctive vocals. With bouncy piano keys driving the versus and these deep, catchy choruses inviting you to sing-along, this is a great start to the album.
"Amsterdam" kicks in next with a tempo and drive to it that demands you to dance a little. The song enchants with its slight whimsy and great, easy-to-follow storytelling. Speaking of the charming streets of the Dutch city, Stewart's storytelling prowess is at its peak here, making every verse feel like a scene from a movie. Let’s also not forget the perfect guitar solo at the bridge. Desperately leaves you wanting more.
The tender "Songs Out of Clay" offers a more stripped-down and intimate moment. The acoustic guitar takes center stage on this one, accompanied by Stewart's heartfelt vocals. Using bits of Spanish-styled guitar, 60’s styled organs, and playing out in ¾ time, this song is diverse, moving, and unforgettable.
Then there's "The News from Spain," a standout track and my favorite from the album. Featured on the last record as a bonus track, “Orange’s” version is slightly extended. About another 30-60 seconds on the tail end of the song, really lengthening that solo. Boy, does it make a difference. This song is nothing short of epic as it builds and builds into a climax of unbelievable piano playing. A true display of masterclass musicianship and storytelling. Everyone stop right now and thank the heavens for this song.
Good job
"I Don't Believe You" brings back some of that folky pop energy from the last album, “Zero She Flies”. Hitting us with a bouncy bass line and a twangy, almost steel-pedal-like guitar, this is a very happy, dippy little song that I believe is a Bob Dylan cover. "Once an Orange, Always an Orange" is the instrumental of the record and is quite impressive. Accompanied by gorgeous orchestration, there is some serious guitar picking going on here.
"I'm Falling" maintains the album's introspective mood with its softer arrangement. Stewart's ability to convey emotions in his music has been something that has impressed me a lot. It is a beautiful romantic song that grows on me with every listen.
As "Orange" draws to a close, “Night of the 4th of May," sums up the whole album. Touching on everything done on this record, this final track does it all in one song. You are treated to intricate guitar work, 60’s organs, a lively bass line, detailed storytelling, ups and downs of energy, all coming together to send the album off on a high.
"Orange" I feel is Al’s best and most cohesive album thematically up until this point. Again, “Love Chronicles” makes a pretty good argument as a contender, but I learn more towards “Orange”. The songs are more dynamic and commercial than his last three records. Its folk, pop-rock blend, coupled with Stewart's unique vocal delivery, creates an album that belongs on every record collector’s shelf and in the streaming library of every casual music listener.
The album on music streaming sites even includes a few bonus tracks. Like the last couple of albums, these additions don’t chronologically make much sense, but since they’re here… Soho (Needless to Say) is now one of my all time favorite Al Stewart songs. The heavy synths and the 80s crashing drums coupled with intricate Spanish-styled guitar and Al’s signature vocals creates an addictive song. It is so catchy. “Elvaston Place” is a fantastic song that starts as an acoustic number and then moves into a organ and electric guitar heavy piece. Lastly, “ It Doesn’t Matter Anymore” almost has a coastal feel to it. An upbeat Al styled song that would work at any pool day or beach event. All three are stunners.
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Highlight Songs:
Amsterdam
Songs Out of Clay
The News From Spain
I’m Falling
Bonus Track Highlights:
Soho
Elvaston Place
It Doesn’t Matter Anymore
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Own it, Stream it, Forget about it?
Once again this is an easy answer. Own it. Stream it if you must, but only until you can own a physical copy of it. Then play the hell out of it. This is a great record with so much to love on it. As Al Stewart’s first, or potentially second, NSA, this album should get many plays from you.
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Overall Rating
4.5 Stars
