1964: Bob Dylan - The Times They Are a-Changin'

Introduction: In general I'm familiar with the majority of Bob Dylan's work, and have listened to, I'd like to believe, almost all of his studio output. The Times They Are a-Changin' is a pivotal album in Bob Dylan's career, so I was pleased that Richie suggested it for this weeks review.

First Impression: On my first listen through, I would have to say, the album is as I vaguely remembered it; a good solid "folk" (as folk was typified in the era, although with more original compositions). I would have to say that I enjoyed the album, although it isn't my favorite of his work.

First Impression Rating: 4.0/5.0

Favourite Track: My favourite track for some odd reason was "Ballad of Hollis Brown". I'm not completely sure what elevated it to my favorite, but it definitely had a good "vibe", at least in my opinion. A close second would have to be "When the Ship Comes In". Ask me on another day, and it may be my favorite.

Least Favourite Track: This is a hard question, because for the most part I felt like that the album was pretty consistent in the quality of the material. So, with that in mind, I won't list one, since otherwise, I'd have to just pick randomly.

Final Impression: Overall, this is a good solid album, in a genre that doesn't seem to exist in much of any scale these days. Really my main complaint about the album, is not that it isn't good, because I feel it is good, but that it isn't Dylan's best.

For me, this album was sort of a kick off point for even greater adventures into sound and lyric. The lyrics on this album aren't lacking, they're fun, and definitely "Dylan-esque" for that time period.

It is too bad though that far too many people stereotype this as the definition of Dylan. Dylan shouldn't be slotted into one particular genre (as he has duly demonstrated throughout his career), and people need to listen beyond this era. The man has a lot to offer, and there aren't many lyricists that can beat him.

So, check this album out. This album is good. But, on the other hand, if you don't like this album, don't let it turn you off on Dylan. This isn't ALL he is about, he has a whole lot to offer.

Final Rating: 4.2/5.0