Song of Innocence

David Axelrod (Performer) | Format: Audio CD

Product Details

• Audio CD (May 23, 2000)
• Label: Msi
• ASIN: B00004THIV
• Also Available in: Vinyl  |  MP3 Download
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (5 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #691,931 in Music (See Top 100 in Music)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A suite in seven parts..., June 12, 2003

By 

George T. Parsons (Nevada City, CA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Song of Innocence (Audio CD)

This 1968 album was inspired by the writings of William Blake, as was it's followup "Songs of Experience". Record producer Axelrod had produced hits for folks like Cannonball Adderley, The Electric Prunes, and Lou Rawls, amongst others, in '68 he got the chance to produce his first solo album. Featuring a full bass heavy sound that isn't a million miles removed from the soundtracks John Barry was doing for the James Bond films at the time, but Axelrod is far more musically ambitious and psychedelic.
Almost symphonic orchestrations with loud electric guitar, an insistent beat, plenty of dreamy atmospherics, great drumming and more.

6 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A Work of Wonder, June 9, 2005

By 

Juan Mobili (Valley Cottage, NY USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Song of Innocence (Audio CD)

Along with its counterpart "Songs of Experience" -both single, consecutive releases about William Blake's books of poems- "Songs of Innocence" represents, perhaps, the essence of Axelrod's daring and beautiful work.
Released in 1968, this album reflects much of what was going on with music then, and probably represents one of its most interesting documents. Axelrod, still rather young was already at a creative peak: Jazz discovering Rock and willing to embrace it, orchestral arrangements that are bold and pushing the envelope of the traditional big band concept and -along with the addition of electric guitars- engage in full psychedelic flight without indulging in trippiness for trippiness' sake.
Where its succesor, Song of Experience, can be dark and ominous at times, something that would be even more pronounced in the albums that follow these, Songs of Innocence is hopeful, the wide-eyed wonder of someone wanting to tell you all the promise they see ahead.
As you listen to it, you may find difficult not to be swept by this music and be impressed by its visionary power. Don't be surprised if you find sounds you might have credit other artists for, who only got there years later.
I recommend that you get both albums and listen to them in tandem. Of course begin here with "...Innocence" -just like life does- and then move on to "... Experience." Although both works stand alone and each is a distinct marvel, the combined listening experience will provide even more pleasure and insight into the mind and heart of one of a great contemporary composer who, given the weight and depth of what he has to offer, has been sadly under-recognized.

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Musical Genius, July 31, 2009

By 

myladypatriot - See all my reviews

This review is from: Song Of Innocence (MP3 Download)

David Axelrod is a musical genius and although he has been sampled by some of the greatest names in hip hop/rap, he's been greatly underappreciated for what he's done and accomplished. His music will stand the test of time!