Loveless

I was saving my latest edition of the 33 1/3 series, Loveless recorded by My Bloody Valentine and written by Mike McGonigal, for my flight to Bangkok because I had the feeling that it would be an entertaining read. It was another good discussion of a classic album, one, that I have to admit, I didn’t know until many years after it was released. I was aware of the whole shoe gazer scene going on in college, but finances were tight so I wasn't venturing out to buy just anything, so I never go the album, but I remember there was a lot of buzz about this album when it came out in 1991. I guess I finally decided to get he album after getting the Lost in Translation soundtrack, which was selected by Kevin Shields the former mastermind behind the band and the album. The soundtrack had one of the cuts from the album, “Sometimes.” I also enjoyed the Kevin Shields penned songs, of which there were 4. This album is an aural masterwork. It seems like layers upon layers of sound were sculpted around lush melodies. The standout tracks for me are “Soon,” “Come In Alone,” and “When You Sleep.” It is one of those timeless albums-it will never sound dated. The big story was that it was a masterwork that basically killed the band. It took several years to completely and they never recorded a follow up. I guess if I had a criticism of the book, it would be that I would have liked more specific information about the context in which the album was produced and the direct influence on popular music. I guess it was well known that they were never as big in America as they were in England. Overall, it was an interesting and informative look at the album. Let’s hope Kevin Shields feels inspired to continue creating music for prosperity.

Comments

[Captain]

I think Shields didn't want to pull a Stone Roses. All those remixes he did of other bands thereafter would almost always spawn rumors of a next album and tour - something that he only encouraged. He milked it as long as he could. I say, why not? He knew for sure that he could never match Loveless and didn't want to try. And if he did try, all he would get would be criticism.

The only problem with Loveless is that it could use a remastering. I agree that the album will not become dated but there are certain tracks that could sound nicer given a modern treatment.