The Flying Burrito Bros The Gilded Palace Of Sin
When it comes to defining country rock, one album that cannot be left out of the conversation is The Flying Burrito Bros' 1969 debut album, The Gilded Palace Of Sin.
The Band
The Flying Burrito Bros were founded by Gram Parsons and Chris Hillman, both former members of The Byrds. With Parsons on lead vocals and Hillman on bass, along with Sneaky Pete Kleinow on steel guitar, and original drummer Chris Ethridge, the band set out to create a new sound, combining country music with rock and roll.
The Album
Released in 1969, The Gilded Palace Of Sin was produced by Henry Lewy and recorded at A&M Studios in Los Angeles, California. The album featured songs written by both Parsons and Hillman, as well as covers of old country classics.
The Songs
The album opens with "Christine's Tune (Devil in Disguise)", a catchy tune with a driving beat that showcases Parsons' distinctive vocals. "Sin City" follows, with its haunting lyrics about the darker side of life in Los Angeles. Other standout tracks include "My Uncle", "Wheels", and "Hot Burrito #1".
The Legacy
Despite poor commercial success upon its initial release, The Gilded Palace Of Sin has since gained a cult following and is now regarded as a groundbreaking work in the country rock genre. The album's influence can be heard in the music of countless bands that followed in its wake, including The Eagles, The Byrds, and Wilco.
In Conclusion
For fans of country rock or just great music in general, The Gilded Palace Of Sin is a timeless classic that still sounds fresh and innovative today.