About this album

Sound: "A vibrant tapestry of whimsical melodies and introspective lyrics that captures the essence of 60s psychedelia."

Where they were

Released on February 1, 1967, 'Mellow Yellow' was Donovan's fourth studio album, following his breakthrough with 'Sunny Afternoon.' By this point, Donovan had solidified his place in the folk-rock scene, blending his signature acoustic style with emerging psychedelic influences.

Why it matters

'Mellow Yellow' reached No. 2 on the UK Albums Chart and was pivotal in defining the psychedelic sound of the late 60s. The title track became one of Donovan's most recognized songs, contributing to his cultural impact during a time when artists were exploring new sonic boundaries and lyrical themes.

Essential tracks

  • "Mellow Yellow" — The title track exemplifies Donovan's playful lyrical style and showcases his knack for catchy melodies, becoming a signature song for the artist.
  • "Writer in the Sun" — This track blends reflective lyrics with a unique chord progression, highlighting Donovan's poetic sensibility and growth as a songwriter.
  • "Sand and Foam" — With its lush instrumentation and evocative imagery, this song captures the album's dreamy aesthetic and represents Donovan's exploration of nature and emotion.

Release Date

February 1, 1967

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Tracklist

  1. 1 Mellow Yellow 3:42
  2. 2 Writer in the Sun 4:28
  3. 3 Sand and Foam 3:17
  4. 4 The Observation 2:21
  5. 5 Bleak City Woman 2:22
  6. 6 House of Jansch 2:42
  7. 7 Young Girl Blues 3:45
  8. 8 Museum 2:54
  9. 9 Hampstead Incident 4:40
  10. 10 Sunny South Kensington 3:48