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Picturesque Matchstickable Messages from the Status Quo cover

Picturesque Matchstickable Messages from the Status Quo

Status Quo

Album 1968

About this album

Sound: "A vibrant blend of psychedelic rock and boogie, featuring whimsical lyrics and catchy melodies that defined a generation."

Where they were

Released on September 27, 1968, this was Status Quo's debut album, marking their entry into the British rock scene. At this time, the band was still exploring their sound before they fully embraced the boogie rock style that would later define their career. The album laid the groundwork for their subsequent commercial success in the early 1970s.

Why it matters

The album features the hit single 'Pictures of Matchstick Men,' which reached No. 7 on the UK Singles Chart, propelling Status Quo into mainstream recognition. Its unique blend of rock and psychedelia also influenced many contemporary artists and helped cement the band's status in rock history as they transitioned into a more boogie-oriented sound in later albums.

Essential tracks

  • "Pictures of Matchstick Men" — As their most famous track, it showcases the band's signature sound with its catchy hook and psychedelic influences, establishing their identity.
  • "Black Veils of Melancholy" — This track highlights the album’s darker lyrical themes while seamlessly blending melodic vocals with intricate guitar work.
  • "Gentleman Joe’s Sidewalk Cafe" — Featuring playful lyrics and a lively rhythm, this song encapsulates the carefree spirit of late 60s rock culture.

Release Date

September 27, 1968

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Tracklist

Disc 1

  1. 1 Black Veils of Melancholy 3:17
  2. 2 When My Mind Is Not Live 2:50
  3. 4 Elizabeth Dreams 3:29
  4. 5 Gentleman Joe’s Sidewalk Cafe 3:01
  5. 6 Paradise Flat 3:13
  6. 7 Technicolour Dreams 2:54
  7. 9 Spicks and Specks 2:46
  8. 10 Sunny Cellophane Skies 2:47
  9. 12 Pictures of Matchstick Men 3:13
  10. 13 To Be Free (B-side) 2:37
  11. 14 Make Me Stay a Bit Longer (A-side) 2:55
  12. 15 Auntie Nellie (B-side) 3:22
  13. 16 Interview With Brian Matthew 1:07
  14. 17 Pictures of Matchstick Men 3:13
  15. 18 Things Get Better 2:11
  16. 19 Spicks and Specks 2:48
  17. 20 Judy in Disguise (with Glasses) 2:45
  18. 21 Interview With Rick Parfitt 1:18
  19. 22 Make Me Stay a Bit Longer 2:48

Disc 2

  1. 1 Black Veils of Melancholy 3:16
  2. 2 When My Mind Is Not Live 3:02
  3. 3 Ice in the Sun 2:15
  4. 4 Elizabeth Dreams 3:49
  5. 5 Gentleman Joe’s Sidewalk Cafe 3:02
  6. 6 Paradise Flat 3:15
  7. 7 Technicolour Dreams 3:19
  8. 8 Sheila 1:57
  9. 9 Spicks and Specks 2:54
  10. 10 Sunny Cellophane Skies 2:48
  11. 11 Green Tambourine 2:20
  12. 12 Pictures of Matchstick Men 3:16
  13. 13 Auntie Nellie (stereo) 3:33
  14. 14 Gloria 2:47
  15. 15 Interview With Francis Rossi 0:49
  16. 16 I (Who Have Nothing) 3:03
  17. 17 Neighbour, Neighbour 2:38
  18. 18 I Don’t Want You 2:34
  19. 19 Almost but Not Quite There 2:38
  20. 20 Spicks and Specks 2:47
  21. 21 Gloria 2:43
  22. 22 Interview With Alan Lancaster 1:00
  23. 23 Black Veils of Melancholy 3:14
  24. 24 Bloodhound 2:04

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