As one of the most famous bands of the late ‘60s, Jefferson Airplane garnered large audiences with their breakthrough album Surrealistic Pillow featuring hits like ‘Somebody to Love’ and ‘White Rabbit.’
Unless you are a big Airplane fan, it is likely you know little about their 4th studio album Crown of Creation. That’s why I am reviewing the album for you here today, to draw attention to an amazing piece of work by 6 talented musicians.
The album actually made the billboard charts at number 6 in 1968. The sound that you hear is even more experimental and psychedelic than Surrealistic Pillow, which is likely a reason why it didn’t become so big among the masses.
No it is not pop music, that’s for sure. But it continues the vibe of the San Francisco Sound, yet is something new altogether.
I’m just going to go ahead and say that you should listen to the album. It’ll definitely take you on a trip.
For this particular review, I’m going to list my top 3 songs on Crown of Creation.
In Time
This song was written by Paul Kantner and Marty Balin. It is in my opinion the best song on the album with its chill and reminiscent vibe. From Jorma Kaukonen’s fire-y lead guitar work to the three-part vocal harmony in the chorus. Instead of the usual 12-string Rickenbacker guitar, an acoustic was used to mellow things out a bit.
Crown of Creation
Of course the title track makes the list of the top 3 songs. Written by Paul Kantner, there is a certain dark, gloomy kind of vibe but it still somehow makes you feel good. Especially the whole outro where the band stops and fades to the background to make way for a powerful vocal harmony to gently bring us back to reality.
If You Feel
This is the one song on the album that feels like early Jefferson Airplane. And as it should since it was written by Marty Balin, who had a bigger influence on the songwriting during the days of Takes Off and Surrealistic Pillow. Very notable in this song is Jorma’s lead guitar combined with a wah pedal to give a very vocal type of sound. Almost like a 4th singer!
Well there you have it. Those are my top 3 songs on the album. Let us know in the comments box if your top 3 is different. I recently found Crown of Creation on vinyl for 7 bucks.. what a steal! Don’t miss out on this gem.
This is a Guest Post written by Raj who writes a blog on Guitar Tone and ‘60s Music.
