The Irony of Great Albums: Why Some Terrible Songs Stand Out
Music has a remarkable ability to transform an otherwise brilliant album with a single poor track. The irony is that these songs, often perceived as "terrible," can suddenly become the focal point for criticism and ridicule, overshadowing the rest of the incredible content they appear on. This article explores several examples of such songs, as well as a standout example of a great song on an otherwise terrible album. Additionally, we'll discuss the importance of album sequencing and its impact on the listener's experience.
Examples of Terrible Songs on Great Albums
The Beatles - "Wild Honey Pie" (1968)
On the groundbreaking album Yellow Submarine, The Beatles included "Wild Honey Pie," a track that is often singled out as one of the worst on the album. Despite being part of a mesmerizing musical journey, this track is a playful experimentation with psychedelic sounds that justifiably falls short compared to the masterpieces like "Eleanor Rigby" or "Back in the U.S.S.R."
The Police - "Mother" (1983, Synchronicity)
The album Synchronicity is widely regarded as one of The Police's greatest works, but it's not without its flaws. “Mother” is a track that many listeners find hard to sit through due to its melody and lyrics. While the rest of the album is an outstanding reflection of rock and pop music, this particular song is often cited as a standout misstep in an otherwise stellar collection.
The Doors - "Alabama Song" (1967)
The Doors' eponymous third album had numerous hits, but "Alabama Song" stands out as a cover that is often played for other reasons than the original. While it's a cover of a Jacques Brel composition, its inclusion on such a dynamic and influential album makes it a curious choice, considering many fans and critics find it difficult to listen to.
Different Rock Opera: "Cousin Kevin" and "Tommy's Holiday Camp" (1969, The Who's Tommy)
On the seminal rock opera album The Who's Tommy, the inclusion of "Cousin Kevin" and "Tommy's Holiday Camp" is often debated. These songs are part of the narrative but in many versions, particularly the 1969 original release, they contribute to the overall experience without necessarily being highlights. The album's complex storytelling warrants these tracks, but they are not always seen as essential listens.
A Great Song on an Otherwise Terrible Album
City’s Burning - Original Heart (1982)
Within the chaotic and largely forgettable album Private Audition, the lone bright spot is "City’s Burning." Despite the album being directionless and featuring subpar tracks, this song is a standout. With its powerful and catchy melody, "City’s Burning" stands tall alongside other hard rock hits like "Magic Man" and "Barricades of My Mind." Its resilience and merit make it a memorable outlier in a sea of less impressive music.
The Importance of Album Sequencing
Album sequencing plays a crucial role in the overall listening experience. Often, the second track is the key to hooking the listener. If a listener is intrigued by the second track, they are more likely to keep going through the rest of the album. A poorly sequenced album, particularly one with a weak opening track, can quickly deter listeners.
Examples of Album Sequencing Impact
Elton John's double album, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, features the track "Saturday Night's Alright for Fighting," which many consider a prime example of the artist's obsession with hard rock, a genre he did not fully grasp. This track, while a standout, distracts from the overall quality of the album, though the rest of the tracklist is quite strong.
Phish's debut album kicked off with the ineffective "Fee," tarnishing the entire listening experience. If listeners like the second or third track, these songs can immediately reinvigorate their interest in the album, even if the weak opener is forgotten quickly.
Conclusion
The music industry, like many fields, is rife with the paradox of quality. Even on the most celebrated albums, there may be tracks that fail to meet the listener's expectations. Yet, these tracks can hold a special place in criticism and discussion, reflecting the complex nature of musical creation. Understanding the impact of these songs on the listener's experience and the album as a whole is crucial in appreciating the artistry behind each track.