About this album

Sound: "Tim Buckley weaves ethereal melodies with introspective lyrics, creating a hauntingly beautiful exploration of love and longing."

Where they were

Released in January 1969, 'Blue Afternoon' marks Tim Buckley's fourth studio album, following his critically acclaimed release 'Happy Sad.' At this point in his career, Buckley was delving deeper into experimental sounds and complex arrangements while continuing to evolve his distinct vocal style.

Why it matters

'Blue Afternoon' is notable for its lush instrumentation and profound lyrical content, contributing to Buckley's reputation as a pioneering figure in the folk and avant-garde scenes. The album received positive reviews, bolstering Buckley's artistic credibility during a time when he was seeking to expand his musical boundaries.

Essential tracks

  • "Chase the Blues Away" — This track encapsulates the album's exploration of emotional resilience through its serene melody and reflective lyrics.
  • "I Must Have Been Blind" — Here, Buckley's emotive vocal delivery highlights an intense vulnerability, making it one of the album's most striking moments.
  • "The River" — With its flowing structure and poetic imagery, this song showcases Buckley's ability to blend narrative depth with musical fluidity.

Release Date

January 1, 1969

Artist Origin

United States

Tracklist

  1. 1 Happy Time 3:16
  2. 2 Chase the Blues Away 5:14
  3. 3 I Must Have Been Blind 3:46
  4. 4 The River 5:49
  5. 5 So Lonely 3:29
  6. 6 Cafe 5:28
  7. 7 Blue Melody 4:56
  8. 8 The Train 7:54