Love Chronicles (1969)
Al Stewart's second album "Love Chronicles" is a much more straight forward folk and pop/rock blend that showcases Al’s profound storytelling abilities and melodic prowess. As an album that deterred from the more costly recorded and produced “The First Album (Bedsitter Images),” it embraced a more stripped back and raw approach. "Love Chronicles" had to have solidified Stewart's reputation as a lyrical mastermind with a knack for more complex folk guitar playing.
The magic of "Love Chronicles" lies not only in Stewart's lyrical prowess but also in his ability to craft intricate melodies that complement each narrative like a finely woven tapestry. Tracks like "In Brooklyn" boast infectious hooks that stay with you. If this songs had the backing orchestration from his first album, it would’ve been sensational and one of Al’s best. Due to this, though, certain songs like “Old Compton Street Blues” and “The Ballad of Mary Foster” slightly bleed together. That’s not to say they aren’t memorable or worth listening to. It is more that they can sometimes be hard to differentiate between one another.
Then you have songs like “Life and Life Only” that are slightly more dramatic and electric. Most memorably from this track is the cinematic electric guitar solo that seemingly comes out of nowhere after the first few songs from this album. Following that you get the more upbeat, driving “You Should Have Listened To Al”, which undoubtedly gets your foot tapping. Similar things can be said for the 2007 Collector’s Edition, which added 3 bonus track demos in “Jackdaw”, “She Follows Her Own Rules”, and “Fantasy”.
From the very first note of the title track "Love Chronicles," you're swept into a long voyage of epic proportions. Stewart's soothing yet expressive vocals transport you into a world of vivid imagery. A sprawling 18-minute opus that captures the essence of love's complexities, the human experience, and a very controversial 1969 “f-bomb”. Despite its length, the song doesn’t get boring to the point where you think you’ve heard enough of it. Instead, it ebbs and flows, carrying you through its waves of emotion. A wonderful background track or a piece of music that has a story you want to get lost in.
What criticism does this record have? Well, if I had to nitpick, the title tracks length could be a deterrent for the “average” music listener, and the record all together might not be the best choice for those seeking instant gratification or quick musical fixes. But trust me, the journey is peaceful, and it is worth it.
"Love Chronicles" is a folk pop/rock record unlike anything else I’ve heard, and Al Stewart's poetic brilliance and musical craftsmanship shine brightly throughout the album. It's an album that rewards careful listening and invites you to delve into its lyrical labyrinth time and time again. So, if you're ready to embark on a journey of love, history, and reflection, "Love Chronicles" awaits, with its arms wide open.
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Highlight Songs:
In Brooklyn
Love Chronicles
Life and Life Only
You Should Have Listened To Al
Jackdaw
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Own it, Stream it, Forget about it?
I would say this album is worth owning. It might now be as full as its predecessor, but it has a place on the shelves of any music lover. If folky pop rock is not at all your thing, then you might not like too much of this. But if you think artists like Bob Dylan are the bee knees and music can’t get better than that, then listen to early Al Stewart and admit you were wrong. Dylan might be a great storyteller, but Al is just as good and brings even great musicianship and orchestration with him. Love Chronicles is worth your time.
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Overall Rating
4.5 Stars
