Flying Burrito Brothers Gilded Palace Of Sin
The Flying Burrito Brothers are a well-known American country rock band from the late 60s and early 70s. Their debut album, The Gilded Palace Of Sin, is considered a masterpiece of the genre and one of the most influential records of all time. In this article, we will take a closer look at the history, sound, and impact of this legendary album.
History
The Flying Burrito Brothers formed in 1968 after Gram Parsons left The Byrds. Parsons, who had a deep love for traditional country music, teamed up with Chris Hillman to create a sound that blended rock, country, and soul. The band was rounded out by bassist Chris Ethridge and drummer Jon Corneal.
The Gilded Palace Of Sin was recorded in late 1968 and released in February 1969. The album was produced by Larry Marks and A&M Records co-founder, Lee Hazlewood. The cover art, featuring the band dressed in Nudie suits, was designed by artist and musician, Sneaky Pete Kleinow.
Sound
The sound of The Gilded Palace Of Sin is a fusion of country, rock, and soul. It features lush harmonies, twangy guitars, and honky-tonk piano. Parsons and Hillman's songwriting is deeply influenced by traditional country music but updated for a modern audience. The album also features covers of classic country songs like "Dark End Of The Street" and "Do Right Woman".
The standout track on the album is "Sin City". The song is a commentary on the excess and moral decay of Hollywood, where Parsons and Hillman had been living. The song is notable for its use of gospel-inspired harmonies and Parsons' haunting lead vocal.
Impact
The Gilded Palace Of Sin was not a commercial success, but it has become a cult classic and a touchstone for country rock. The album's influence can be heard in the work of countless artists, including The Eagles, Emmylou Harris, and Wilco. The album's unique blend of genres, lush harmonies, and bittersweet lyrics have made it a favorite of music critics and fans alike.
The Flying Burrito Brothers would go on to release several more albums before disbanding in 1973. Gram Parsons would go on to a successful solo career before his untimely death in 1973 at the age of 26. Chris Hillman would continue to perform and record with various bands, including The Desert Rose Band and The Byrds.
Conclusion
The Flying Burrito Brothers' debut album, The Gilded Palace Of Sin, is a timeless classic that continues to inspire and influence musicians today. With its unique blend of country, rock, and soul, the album created a new sound that would become known as country rock. Parsons and Hillman's songwriting, combined with the band's impeccable musicianship, make The Gilded Palace Of Sin an essential part of any music lover's collection.