Photographers: David Gahr; Bob Cato; Leonard Cohen.
Leonard Cohen's debut album encapsulated the performer's artistry. A successful poet and novelist, he came to music through the folk idiom, and this set combines the aural simplicity and visual clarity of these two passions. Cohen's lugubrious voice brought an intensity to a haunting collection bound together by beautiful melodies and deeply personal lyrics. Members of contemporary group Kaleidoscope join producer John Simon in creating a delicate backdrop for some memorable love songs. Cohen's ability to be both intimate and universal is a rare gift and results in a body of work that is both timeless and enthralling, albeit a bit sombre.
Professional Reviews
Rolling Stone (p.78) - 4.5 stars out of 5 -- "[T]he tunes remain surefire four decades later....This is deep, witty and enduring stuff."
Spin (p.108) - "[S]tripped-down, world-weary folk songs....[They] still hold an uncanny attractiveness today."
Q (p.132) - 4 stars out of 5 -- "[T]he imagery woven through the likes of 'Sisters Of Mercy' proved that no one, not even Bob Dylan, had such a complete mastery of words."
Q (p.132) - 5 stars out of 5 - "[With] a dark wit and sophistication..."
Magnet (p.93) - "[T]he tentative, almost boyish softness of Cohen's first folksinging forays only underscores his grim lyrics."
Dirty Linen (p.43) - "[The] impeccable production put Cohen's melancholy , sensuous baritone at the forefront, with an impressive array of subtle instrumental embellishments lurking in the background."
No Depression (p.76) - "[The songs] have a timeless and ageless power, even when they're awash in '60s countercultural meaning."
This is probably the most essential of all of Leonard Cohens albums. If you haven't heard leonard cohen then this is the first album you buy, then buy songs of love and hate and you have probably the most beautifully written and performed songs ever. This album contains his original fol sensibilties that songs of love and hate began to reinvent, a wicked album and worth every penny.
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By Warren on September 4, 2008
I believe that many people are like myself. I had heard of Leonard Cohen, been exposed to some of his music (on the radio or thru other artists) but had never thought about actually owning a Leonard Cohen CD. I can only claim to have been a fan for about a year or so, but I am now trying to fill in the gaps in my experience.
If "Suzanne" was the only track on this album, it would stil be good value. This song is a constant revelation regardless of how many times I listen to it. It's seems simple, but will swirl around in your head for days afterwards - half crazy girls, tea and oranges from China, and Jesus as a sailor, all wrapped into the same poetic song.
But don't stop there - listen on - every track is a classic.
Open your heart and mind to the world of Leonard!!
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By Ivy on April 30, 2009
Being a huge Leonard Cohen fan, I must say that I am enjoying my purchase "Songs of Leonard Cohen. It contains my all favouriets, "Song Long Marianne, "Suzanne" and "Sisters of Mercy." I agree with a previous review, it being an excellent purchase as an introduction to Leonard Cohen's music.
Being a huge fan of Leonard Cohen, I must say that I am enjoying "Songs of Leonard Cohen" which has my all time favourites "So Long, Marianne", "Suzanne" and "Sisters of Mercy." I agree that it is an excellent choice for anyone who is possibly a first time listener.
