I am a child of the 80's and loved Al Stewart's top hits but I had never heard this one. (not radio played) Thank you for introducing me to this one!! With no internet back then, we couldn't just Google any song. It had to be on the radio.
Al’s music is good medicine. He’s a great person, musician, poet , historian and wine Connoisseur. I had the pleasure of meeting him a number of years ago. He’s the rock star for the thoughtful individual. Al rocks…
I met Al w Lawrence Juber, formerly of Wings, at a N. California Winery, of course. He does not act like a big shot. Actually, it was a tiny, wine consuming yet classy people. Al was amazing. Al most defintely rocks.
I love watching your Al Stewart journey! He's my fave singer/songwriter and I've been following him since 1976. Wonderful to see new fans catching the fever!
I think that I have only two things to say. First, Al's debut album was released in 1967 so people who didn't hear him until "Year of the Cat" very possibly have no idea of how long he has been writing and performing his music. I've been a fan since I first heard him in the early 70's and it has taken me years to acquire his complete discography. Believe me, it was all time and money well spent. As an aside, Al has what is possibly the most well read audience of any other artist. History plays a huge part in his lyrical content and the more you learn the more you appreciate his songs. I'd say that he is the best lyricist that I know of. Period. Full stop. Second, this is the first time that I have seen you guys and the fact that it was Al Stewart who was the subject of the day was simply a bonus! I may be doing a cannonball into the pool by saying this but of all the reaction channels that I have seen over the years, you young dudes (and, yes, that is a Mott The Hoople reference) are the finest reactors I have seen to date. Thank you for the show, well done, well done indeed. 😎🎸🚀
Al was a great find for me when i was 17 - and got Time Passages as a door prize - my friends didnt listen to him -- to this day - but he resonated with me - and i have every song of his that i could find - and have seen in concert a dozen times - heck Dave Nachmanoff even did a house concert in my living room 20 years ago - I wanna remember!
I remember sitting in my bedroom with a friend, one afternoon, listening to this for the first time. We were stunned. We smiled at how phenomenal the experience of listening to this was. I’ve been an Al fan since. You need to get to Nostradamus.
How Mr. Stewart writes with such thought and vision while bathing your senses with lush musical joy is beyond me. What a craftsman and gift to us all. I grew up on Time Passages and Year of the Cat. Was to young to appreciate him fully then. Thanks for bringing back for a fresh listen. I have tried to describe how he makes me feel. I always seem to come up short.
You talk about underrated - Al Stewart is the ultimate. So many GREAT songs that most of the world will never hear. Thanks for bringing him to peoples attention!! So many more amazing songs for you to check out.
Lord, this is my favorite Al Stewart song and I love love "Year of the Cat." The guitar solo by Tim Renwick is just superb. They played this all the time on the radio in NYC when it came out. Thanks for reacting to this!
@@neilworsfold5768 Tim was a very popular guitarist. He toured with Elton John, Roger Waters, Eric Clapton (he's on stage with Eric at Live Aid in 1985). And it was Dave Gilmour who enlisted him to join Pink Floyd in 1987 onward. A wonderful musician.
You need to react to more Queen videos. Live performances are best. They are so much better than any you are reacting to. I grew up during this time...queen ruled!!!. Freddie Mercury doesn't have the best vocalist title for no reason.
Al came back to Scotland last year and I finally managed to see him live. What a great show it was. Might I suggest you do a 'mega-reaction' to his Past, Present & Future album which is a masterpiece of story-telling, musicianship and orchestration from start to finish.
I saw Al in concert the other night in a small theater in Bend Oregon with the Empty Pockets as his supporting band and they performed this song much to my delight. It was stunning esp. the outro guitar solo. Al really has it going on for a 78 year old guy. His voice is as good as ever.
You guys need to see Al live while you still can. He still performs regularly and usually has regular tour stops around the Great Lakes states. I saw him in Ohio a few years ago. He still puts on a great show and performs like a man half his age, but he isn't getting any younger so take advantage to see a legend live. What's great too is he typically plays small venues and he always interacts with the crowd, signs autographs, and is genuinely a great guy as well as an incredible performer.
Great performer and recording artist. I saw Al live at The Bottom Line, a legendary place in NYC that I believe is no longer around. A fantastic concert.
I saw him at a small town hall in the mid-90’s with Peter White, a jazz guitarist. They both played acoustic and it was a warm and meaningful evening.👍
@@willasacco9898 Peter was Al's guitarist and fellow band made for several years and co-wrote Time Passages with Al. Peter is also a mind blowing musician and jazz guitarist worthy of much wider recognition. He's also a genuinely warm, kind, wonderful person.
He doesn't want to remember the past, because it's too painful. Modern times cannot compare to his past...It is loss for him. Great reaction guys. Any time you guys are reacting to Al, I'm here!
Al took you back in time, to when he (and you) were young. Next he brings you back to 'Modern Times', walking the streets and getting lost in the future 🙃 Nice to see us older folks have passed the Al baton off to you guys. Rock on.
You guys are great. I've seen many of your videos and my favorites are Al Stewart also. You guys have great personalities and I really appreciate what you add to my memories way back when people like Al Stewart were dominating the music world
HUGE AL Stewart fan and music in general. You guys all picked up on why he is si beloved. Song craftsmanship, great players, and Al's Knack for telling a wonderful story. My fave story of his is The Palace of Versailes. It's dark but exceptionally thought provoking. You guys rule new subscriber earned. I live your guys in depth critiques as well. Keep up the great entertainment.
I've been on an Al Stewart kick for a few days. Listening to a bunch of his albums all the way through. It also brought me back to your reactions. I'm wearing a grin from ear to ear hearing your comments and seeing your reactions. And best of all, it's been about 5 months since this video, that means we are due for MORE AL STEWART. You've done' his radio hits and something from before then. I would suggest something from his later work. "Night Train to Munich" from the album "Between the Wars"
It's weird that Al Stewart has become a thing on RUclips. I love it. I was in 6th grade when Year of the Cat came out and I went out with my allowance and bought the album after hearing the song just once. I bought pretty much all of his back catalogue over the next three years. When I got to high school there were two guys I was buddies with who were into Al Stewart as well. We were the same as you guys. "Why isn't this more popular? This guy is a genius." I was such a huge fan I tried to sneak backstage for an autograph at the end of a gig he did at the Park West in Chicago. I got caught by security unfortunately. To be honest, one reason (at least in Chicago) he wasn't so popular, is there was a famous DJ who used to make fun of Al's slight lisp and say some stupid stuff about it, so that put people off. That was over 40 years ago! It's so cool he's being rediscovered and you guys had the same reaction as we did back then. The "western feel" guitar I think is an homage to Duane Eddy (the guy who wrote 'Peter Gunn') . I remember some interview Al saying he was into Duane Eddy stuff growing up. He was also a huge Beatles fan and met both John and Yoko long before either of them met the other. He's also a wine connoisseur. I remember once seeing him on the Mike Douglas show (a lukewarm afternoon talk show) in the 70s doing a lesson on how to drink wine. Aw guys, I'm really happy to see these videos, takes me right to back Chicago in the 70s and 80s, a Dual turntable and big yellow Sennheiser headphones.
Saw Al Stewart with Gary Wright in a small club in Kent, Ohio. Met him and got his autograph and a picture with him after the show. What a lovely human being!! One of the best shows I have EVER seen
Idk why this is only now coming up in my notifications?? It’s late, but I’ll suggest it anyway~ “Broadway Hotel” is absolutely exquisite! Loved this reaction! Thanks guys!!
Some interesting trivia regarding this album: This was the first album Alan Parsons ever produced. Al was sharing an apartment with Paul Simon when he was writing the songs and making this album. This was Al Stewarts 6th album, but it was his first album to chart in the USA.
Al Stewart is the real thing! Without doubt YOU MUST LISTEN TO....." Roads to Moscow" But before, research the background to the lyrics. It is a true story!
I have never heard this song before, but it's just like all the rest of Al's songs- 🔥🔥🔥🔥Love the smiles on your faces as you appreciate a wonderful storyteller and artist.
I was fortunate enough to see Al last month on his UK tour. Having been a fan since the late 60s and having seen him on many occasions, I was overjoyed when he played Modern Times in his set, with his American band the Empty Pockets. I had never heard a live version before and boy, did his and the band's rendition blow me away. He is a master craftsman and a lyricist, almost without equal. There are so many more wonderful examples within his oeuvre and I am sure that you three youngsters will continue to discover the joys Al's music brings to the heart and, perhaps more appositely, to the soul. I'm with Ryan, inasmuch as Al's music often starts the tears welling. Exquisite!
Actually was perusing comments for this, my favorite Al Stewart song. Extremely happy to discover you Fellas and your insightful reactions and views. Good job Boys
Probably one of the best outros of all time. This song is a magnificent example of Al's amazing story telling and the brilliant orchestration and production that imbues most of his oeuvre. The man is possibly the greatest 'unsung' genius in the singer/songwriter bracket and it a testament to the shallowness and mindless promotion of ordinary musical trash that he has never gained the universal recognition his undoubted talents deserve. It's several months since your last last Al reaction, boys. Tut-tut!! Get Roads To Moscow up there!!
I'm glad you guys found this song by Al Stewart. It has always been my favorite Al Stewart song, especially the guitar solo by Tim Renwick at the end. Great reaction.
Thanks, guys for an early Christmas gift!! This has always been my favorite from Al. I think it does an incredible job of capturing the two sides of nostalgia. For some people (like Al as the narrator), the past is a warm hug, but for others the past is a bad memory that they long to forget, perhaps in a drink. An absolutely brilliant song, and your reaction to every Al song just makes me smile and brightens my day every time!
Another example of Al Stewart's talent. 'Nostradamus' and 'One Stage Before' apart from ones nominated already are further examples of his versatility. For sax lovers check out Grover Washington Jr, Winelight Album track called 'Just the two of us' amongst others by him. Another song is Snowy White's 'Bird of Paradise'
I will also recommend seeing Al live if you have the chance. I saw him a few years ago and he was autographing after the show, so I actually got to talk to him and thank him for his music. I got a couple records autographed too.
Al makes superbly crafted songs which are also lyrically engaging and this is one of his many gems. Al is very much a big part of my musical sensibilities and so happy to know that you guys too hold him in very high esteem and enjoy his songs as much as I do.
With Al Stewart, you can’t go wrong!! There are so many songs in his catalog, I would suggest that the 3 of you listen to them on your own time! “Midnight Rocks”, “On The Border” and “Lord Grenville” are just 3 of the many songs you will enjoy listening to!
Al is rocking this channel. He's really a prodigy artist. I love his songs. You three are great. I'd like to suggest you explore: E.L.O. "Eletric Light Orchestra" songs. They're amazing. What about to start with "Last Train To London" song? Thanks a lot.
Well, Al hung out with Paul Simon for a bit in the 60s and I believe he said he learned song writing techniques from Paul, and I'm pretty sure he has expressed that Bob Dylan is one of his big influences. There are a few early demo cuts that I have heard that are very Dylan-esque. Al Stewart is a genius, and a very humble, kind person. The older I get, the more I love his music. Great reaction gents, keep doing reactions to his music. I recommend Roads to Moscow, Almost Lucy, The End of the Day, Broadway Hotel, On the Border, and many more...
Al was pretty high up the food chain. The reason he wasn’t an absolute superstar is that the folk rock genre was always a bit niche, and by the time he did his very best work - Year of the cat, etc. - it was even more so. But he got plenty of attention, at least in the UK, from the start. Some of the stuff on “Love Chronicles”, for example, is still well worth a listen. “In Brooklyn” is a good track that foreshadows how his style would develop, and the title track was notorious for featuring the first use of the F word in any best selling record.
All his music is really really good. There is always a story and always amazing music with the lyrics. Thank you for playing Al Stewart. My wife and I have seen him in concert 4 times. All of the venues were intimate so each concert is like you are getting a personal performance from Al. He always has really great collaborators playing with him. If you get the chance to see him live you will not regret it.
I saw him at the Weeley Pop festival - along with 100,000 other people. It was the first time I heard "Love Chronicles" but that song alone was enough to get to to buy his first album (as an LP) I rate Al Stewart alongside Harry Chapin, Lou Reed and Bob Dylan as the best (for me) "story-song writers."
Your appreciation of Al Stewart marks the three of you as gentlemen of exceptional good taste. (Still hoping that you guys will get back to Steely Dan - maybe "Black Cow" or "FM.")
Steely Dan is the universal band! Everyone I’ve ever met who enjoys music, LOVES them. Rap fans, metal heads, hillbillies, jazz lovers… And what’s not to love. “ Black Cow” is my favorite.
Year of the cat is his best, it's just beyond anybody anything.... Having said that.... Whatever he does is good and aften great.... He doesn't fail......
Al and the musicians must have been brought together magnetically, to quote Queen , " It's a kind of Magic ". And because you guys quest for magic ..... you found the treasure . Not everyone quest for that . Having found this treasure a while back I have enjoyed your appreciation of this particular ABUNDANCE 🎉🎉🎉
I love you guys, I wanna adopt you all lol 😂 If you want to listen to Al Stewart’s superb storytelling, I hope you will sample “On The Border,” and “Roads To Moscow.” They both tell a story from the past, and may leave you mournful; however, the guitar especially will grab you by the heart ♥️ Love your channel, and having a blast going through all your reactions. Cheers m8s 🥂
You nailed it. Al didn't get the recognition that he deserved because he is too "high btow". His songs aren't mindless repetition. His lyrics need to be listened to. They always tell a story*. They are 3 act plays perfomed in 5 minutes or less. And most aren't about love or breaking up. They're social commentary, and musical poetry. *Song on the Radio is probably the exception, but... Even with that song, the repetition IS part of the theme. The repeated chorus is a character on its own.
Really good commentary. This album and 'Past Present Future' were Al Stewart's best period. The lyrics, music and arrangements came together perfectly. He's made good songs from the 1960s all the way through 2000. I always thought he was underappreciated.
Dark and The Rolling Sea leading into this is brilliant. I'd like to know which of the two made the call on that. And then there's Renwick. The closing is at the VERY top of the best. I listen to it late at night and it's magic.....
The friend in the bar was singer/actor Michael des barres (the new wkrp in Cincinnati he fronted "the power station" that's what I heard. Maybe Al didn't want to divulge that at the time.
I think of Al Stewart as one if the 5 beat songwriters of our age. Tim Renwick’s leads in this song I find especially “dynamic” and melodic. I don’t get a “western” vibe with Tim’s leads in this song…rather Tim’s leads are so prototypically “British”. Good to find someone resurrecting his genius. Three words…”Roads to Moscow”.
Watching you be so excited about his songs is enjoyable! He is very descriptive and paints a story! Nick you have a vivid imagination with your "stories"/scenarios on these songs! He could team up with you! 😊 Love the nostalgic feel and lyrics of the song!!!! This does have influence of the Beatles. ("Day in the Life" ('I heard the news today, oh boy')). Great solo at the end... He may also be underrated... Liked the fade.
I love seeing you guys on your Al Stewart journey. He's been my favorite since the early 70s. I love that you are skipping around to different albums. Every one of them is different. You've now listened to 5 songs from 3 albums and one thing that they have in common is Alan Parsons as a producer. If I might suggest your next venture into Al's music I would say "Night Train to Munich" or "Life Between the Wars" from his 1995 album "Between the Wars". He just paints such a fantastic picture with his words. You will feel like you are back in time.
Check out Love Chronicles. Al was the first person to use an expletive in a published song without being censored. Critics called him a lyrical poet. "When plucking the fruits of the bed was not enough, it grew to be less like fucking and more like making love."
A rare recording from his VERY early days .... pure acoustic and raw. The beauty of Al, he remains the "nice guy" (definitely NOT a prima donna). His songs - indeed, most are narrative tales (to call them simply "ballads" does not do them justice) hitting the essence of the normal human existence (without focussing on the dark side only à la Lou Reed) "Pretty Golden Hair" before Al was even 18 ... about a "rent boy!" ruclips.net/video/b4zULQipyM8/видео.html
I recently found out that Alan Parsons produced this song (he was very successful in the music industry way before he started his “project” and stepped in front of the mic). I am not surprised. It has an “Alan Parsons’ vibe” to it. Have you ever reacted to “Eye In the Sky?” - You definitely should.
A couple decades ago, a friend of mine saw a coupon for Sausages. We calculated how much each Sausage would cost if we used the coupon. It was exactly 10 cents. I began singing "I know you're in there, your just out of sight, oooooh, Dime Sausages". "My doggie's looking for a treat at home tonight".
I thought I was the only person who enjoyed twisting lyrics in this manner. I KNOW Al would appreciate your comical take on this song. Thanks for the chuckle and for making me hungry for sausages!
@@rayeckert242 Oh. Duh. I'm a little slow today. I started looking through my catalogue of Al Stewart cd's hoping to hear "Dime Sausages" thought it one of his early songs.
Al Stewart admits to having many musical influences, one of which was Lonnie Donegan and in interviews reprimands the 'USA' for not latching on to Lonnie.
My favorite artist period. Modern Times both the song and album are outstanding and next to Past, Prent, and Future is my favorite album. His best song has to be Roads to Moscow in my opinion. Old Admirals has one of the most moving lines I've ever heard - "Sometimes I think the saddest thing to be is an old admiral who feels the wind, and never put to sea."
Just a thought... His friend planned trips away. Could it be that he had something happening at home, that no one knew about, that he couldn't share at the time, and his travels were to leave that situation? Just a thought. What ever, it's a great track. Spin the wheel and pick something from Past present And Future, you'll love it!! This is your 5th Al reaction, and I have enjoyed them all, and so glad you guys have too.
Ryan, if you like the haunting, ethereal songs, then you guys should try One Stage Before from the Year of the Cat album. You'll love it. It's an allusion to reincarnation. One of my favs, althought Al never disappoints.
Very happy you got back to Al Stewart. You've only scratched the surface of his catalog. I haven't heard a bad song from Al. If you want an emotional experience, listen to Roads To Moscow. It blows me away every time I listen to it. Yes, read his books. They're very good.
![Felix "Unfair" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Oswujxm2Ag0/mqdefault.jpg)
"I wanted to cry at one point." Ryan, so did I. Al Stewart is a excellent storyteller and moves me 100% of the time.
Goin back and listening to your reviews. You guys have interesting(good) reactions. Al is a great story tellers. Very stimulating. Love the reaction.
I am a child of the 80's and loved Al Stewart's top hits but I had never heard this one. (not radio played) Thank you for introducing me to this one!! With no internet back then, we couldn't just Google any song. It had to be on the radio.
MY FAVOURITE AL STEWART SONG BY FAR, BUT ALL HIS OTHER ONES ARE EXCELENT
Intradimensional Music!!!!!! Love Al Stewart 💟
You don't predict Al Stewart, you experience him.. That's the beauty of Al Stewart.
Al’s music is good medicine. He’s a great person, musician, poet , historian and wine Connoisseur. I had the pleasure of meeting him a number of years ago. He’s the rock star for the thoughtful individual. Al rocks…
Yes, indeed! He's intellectually sharp, witty and marvelously warm and genuine.
I met Al w Lawrence Juber, formerly of Wings, at a N. California Winery, of course. He does not act like a big shot. Actually, it was a tiny, wine consuming yet classy people. Al was amazing. Al most defintely rocks.
Fantastic song and your reaction is great, good to see someone else loves this.
I love watching your Al Stewart journey! He's my fave singer/songwriter and I've been following him since 1976. Wonderful to see new fans catching the fever!
So great to see you guys discovering the unique storytelling and magic of Al.
I think that I have only two things to say. First, Al's debut album was released in 1967 so people who didn't hear him until "Year of the Cat" very possibly have no idea of how long he has been writing and performing his music. I've been a fan since I first heard him in the early 70's and it has taken me years to acquire his complete discography. Believe me, it was all time and money well spent. As an aside, Al has what is possibly the most well read audience of any other artist. History plays a huge part in his lyrical content and the more you learn the more you appreciate his songs. I'd say that he is the best lyricist that I know of. Period. Full stop.
Second, this is the first time that I have seen you guys and the fact that it was Al Stewart who was the subject of the day was simply a bonus! I may be doing a cannonball into the pool by saying this but of all the reaction channels that I have seen over the years, you young dudes (and, yes, that is a Mott The Hoople reference) are the finest reactors I have seen to date. Thank you for the show, well done, well done indeed. 😎🎸🚀
I love his older songs also. Bedsitter images and the news from Spain are two of my favorites. Been listening to him for eons ❤
Al was a great find for me when i was 17 - and got Time Passages as a door prize - my friends didnt listen to him -- to this day - but he resonated with me - and i have every song of his that i could find - and have seen in concert a dozen times - heck Dave Nachmanoff even did a house concert in my living room 20 years ago - I wanna remember!
I remember sitting in my bedroom with a friend, one afternoon, listening to this for the first time. We were stunned. We smiled at how phenomenal the experience of listening to this was. I’ve been an Al fan since. You need to get to Nostradamus.
How Mr. Stewart writes with such thought and vision while bathing your senses with lush musical joy is beyond me. What a craftsman and gift to us all. I grew up on Time Passages and Year of the Cat. Was to young to appreciate him fully then. Thanks for bringing back for a fresh listen. I have tried to describe how he makes me feel. I always seem to come up short.
You talk about underrated - Al Stewart is the ultimate. So many GREAT songs that most of the world will never hear. Thanks for bringing him to peoples attention!! So many more amazing songs for you to check out.
Lord, this is my favorite Al Stewart song and I love love "Year of the Cat." The guitar solo by Tim Renwick is just superb. They played this all the time on the radio in NYC when it came out. Thanks for reacting to this!
Wow! Tim toured with Pink Floyd on their final tour in 1994... and I was fortunate to experience it in Vancouver
@@neilworsfold5768 Tim was a very popular guitarist. He toured with Elton John, Roger Waters, Eric Clapton (he's on stage with Eric at Live Aid in 1985). And it was Dave Gilmour who enlisted him to join Pink Floyd in 1987 onward. A wonderful musician.
You need to react to more Queen videos. Live performances are best.
They are so much better than any you are reacting to. I grew up during this time...queen ruled!!!. Freddie Mercury doesn't have the best vocalist title for no reason.
Not even one of my top 20 Al songs, but still frickin great. Love that you guys love it too.
Al came back to Scotland last year and I finally managed to see him live. What a great show it was.
Might I suggest you do a 'mega-reaction' to his Past, Present & Future album which is a masterpiece of story-telling, musicianship and orchestration from start to finish.
I saw Al in concert the other night in a small theater in Bend Oregon with the Empty Pockets as his supporting band and they performed this song much to my delight. It was stunning esp. the outro guitar solo. Al really has it going on for a 78 year old guy. His voice is as good as ever.
You guys need to see Al live while you still can. He still performs regularly and usually has regular tour stops around the Great Lakes states. I saw him in Ohio a few years ago. He still puts on a great show and performs like a man half his age, but he isn't getting any younger so take advantage to see a legend live. What's great too is he typically plays small venues and he always interacts with the crowd, signs autographs, and is genuinely a great guy as well as an incredible performer.
Great performer and recording artist. I saw Al live at The Bottom Line, a legendary place in NYC that I believe is no longer around. A fantastic concert.
I saw him at a small town hall in the mid-90’s with Peter White, a jazz guitarist. They both played acoustic and it was a warm and meaningful evening.👍
I caught Al in Hartford earlier this year. Been wanting to catch a show since the 70s so I made sure. As a good a show as I expected.
@@willasacco9898 Peter was Al's guitarist and fellow band made for several years and co-wrote Time Passages with Al. Peter is also a mind blowing musician and jazz guitarist worthy of much wider recognition. He's also a genuinely warm, kind, wonderful person.
I was there too!
He doesn't want to remember the past, because it's too painful. Modern times cannot compare to his past...It is loss for him. Great reaction guys. Any time you guys are reacting to Al, I'm here!
Me too (here for Al). The guys still haven't done anything uptempo yet
TREMENDOUS TUNE! Al Stewart is truly awesome; and I LOVE THE FACT that you guys love this music!
Yes, it's Tim Renwick, guitar supremo!!! 🎸🎶
THANK YOU FOR THIS!!! NEVER HEARD IT BEFORE! ✌❤
Brand new song to me. I loved it. My God he can tell a story! Masterpiece.
Al took you back in time, to when he (and you) were young. Next he brings you back to 'Modern Times', walking the streets and getting lost in the future 🙃
Nice to see us older folks have passed the Al baton off to you guys. Rock on.
You guys are great. I've seen many of your videos and my favorites are Al Stewart also. You guys have great personalities and I really appreciate what you add to my memories way back when people like Al Stewart were dominating the music world
HUGE AL Stewart fan and music in general. You guys all picked up on why he is si beloved. Song craftsmanship, great players, and Al's Knack for telling a wonderful story. My fave story of his is The Palace of Versailes. It's dark but exceptionally thought provoking. You guys rule new subscriber earned. I live your guys in depth critiques as well. Keep up the great entertainment.
This has given me goose bumps & your reactions are priceless ! This is Al before the Cat , & now you are getting the lyrics too ! Awesome .
"Al before the Cat"...love it!!!
I've been on an Al Stewart kick for a few days. Listening to a bunch of his albums all the way through. It also brought me back to your reactions. I'm wearing a grin from ear to ear hearing your comments and seeing your reactions.
And best of all, it's been about 5 months since this video, that means we are due for MORE AL STEWART. You've done' his radio hits and something from before then. I would suggest something from his later work. "Night Train to Munich" from the album "Between the Wars"
It's weird that Al Stewart has become a thing on RUclips. I love it. I was in 6th grade when Year of the Cat came out and I went out with my allowance and bought the album after hearing the song just once. I bought pretty much all of his back catalogue over the next three years.
When I got to high school there were two guys I was buddies with who were into Al Stewart as well. We were the same as you guys. "Why isn't this more popular? This guy is a genius." I was such a huge fan I tried to sneak backstage for an autograph at the end of a gig he did at the Park West in Chicago. I got caught by security unfortunately.
To be honest, one reason (at least in Chicago) he wasn't so popular, is there was a famous DJ who used to make fun of Al's slight lisp and say some stupid stuff about it, so that put people off.
That was over 40 years ago! It's so cool he's being rediscovered and you guys had the same reaction as we did back then.
The "western feel" guitar I think is an homage to Duane Eddy (the guy who wrote 'Peter Gunn') . I remember some interview Al saying he was into Duane Eddy stuff growing up. He was also a huge Beatles fan and met both John and Yoko long before either of them met the other.
He's also a wine connoisseur. I remember once seeing him on the Mike Douglas show (a lukewarm afternoon talk show) in the 70s doing a lesson on how to drink wine.
Aw guys, I'm really happy to see these videos, takes me right to back Chicago in the 70s and 80s, a Dual turntable and big yellow Sennheiser headphones.
"On the Border" is one my fave Al Stewart songs.
Saw Al Stewart with Gary Wright in a small club in Kent, Ohio. Met him and got his autograph and a picture with him after the show. What a lovely human being!! One of the best shows I have EVER seen
Merlins time, Nostradamus, on the border,Roads to Moscow,Delia's gone; etc. Al Stewart has a lot of great songs
Idk why this is only now coming up in my notifications??
It’s late, but I’ll suggest it anyway~ “Broadway Hotel” is absolutely exquisite!
Loved this reaction! Thanks guys!!
Some interesting trivia regarding this album: This was the first album Alan Parsons ever produced. Al was sharing an apartment with Paul Simon when he was writing the songs and making this album. This was Al Stewarts 6th album, but it was his first album to chart in the USA.
Loved Al Stewart from day one of hearing Year Of The Cat. His beautiful song writing and lyrics are wonderful on his song “The Tower”.
Al Stewart is the real thing! Without doubt YOU MUST LISTEN TO....." Roads to Moscow" But before, research the background to the lyrics. It is a true story!
I have never heard this song before, but it's just like all the rest of Al's songs- 🔥🔥🔥🔥Love the smiles on your faces as you appreciate a wonderful storyteller and artist.
I was fortunate enough to see Al last month on his UK tour. Having been a fan since the late 60s and having seen him on many occasions, I was overjoyed when he played Modern Times in his set, with his American band the Empty Pockets. I had never heard a live version before and boy, did his and the band's rendition blow me away. He is a master craftsman and a lyricist, almost without equal. There are so many more wonderful examples within his oeuvre and I am sure that you three youngsters will continue to discover the joys Al's music brings to the heart and, perhaps more appositely, to the soul. I'm with Ryan, inasmuch as Al's music often starts the tears welling. Exquisite!
Actually was perusing comments for this, my favorite Al Stewart song. Extremely happy to discover you Fellas and your insightful reactions and views. Good job Boys
Probably one of the best outros of all time. This song is a magnificent example of Al's amazing story telling and the brilliant orchestration and production that imbues most of his oeuvre. The man is possibly the greatest 'unsung' genius in the singer/songwriter bracket and it a testament to the shallowness and mindless promotion of ordinary musical trash that he has never gained the universal recognition his undoubted talents deserve. It's several months since your last last Al reaction, boys. Tut-tut!! Get Roads To Moscow up there!!
I'm glad you guys found this song by Al Stewart. It has always been my favorite Al Stewart song, especially the guitar solo by Tim Renwick at the end. Great reaction.
Thanks, guys for an early Christmas gift!! This has always been my favorite from Al. I think it does an incredible job of capturing the two sides of nostalgia. For some people (like Al as the narrator), the past is a warm hug, but for others the past is a bad memory that they long to forget, perhaps in a drink. An absolutely brilliant song, and your reaction to every Al song just makes me smile and brightens my day every time!
Another example of Al Stewart's talent. 'Nostradamus' and 'One Stage Before' apart from ones nominated already are further examples of his versatility. For sax lovers check out Grover Washington Jr, Winelight Album track called 'Just the two of us' amongst others by him. Another song is Snowy White's 'Bird of Paradise'
One of the most intricate Stewart's songs... IYKWIM
I will also recommend seeing Al live if you have the chance. I saw him a few years ago and he was autographing after the show, so I actually got to talk to him and thank him for his music. I got a couple records autographed too.
Al makes superbly crafted songs which are also lyrically engaging and this is one of his many gems. Al is very much a big part of my musical sensibilities and so happy to know that you guys too hold him in very high esteem and enjoy his songs as much as I do.
The reason Al didn't take off in the period from 1975 to 1980 was that disco was all the rage and ballads were a bit passé
Once again thanks for your deep appreciation of Al's music.
Saw him do this live last October, phenomenal
This is the kind of music that plays in my dreams😊. .......and ascends to the next frequencies ❤
With Al Stewart, you can’t go wrong!! There are so many songs in his catalog, I would suggest that the 3 of you listen to them on your own time! “Midnight Rocks”, “On The Border” and “Lord Grenville” are just 3 of the many songs you will enjoy listening to!
Midnight rocks, a great, great song!
In addition to the ones you mentioned "Songs Out of Clay" and many more!
Al is pure bliss. Thanks guys.
All you can expect from Al is another classic. Great song.
Agree with all the positive comments on this lovely song, which was new to me. He's a superb lyricist. Thanks for bringing it to us!
One of my favorites of Al's is 'Accident on Third Street' from the Russians and Americans album.
Al is rocking this channel. He's really a prodigy artist. I love his songs. You three are great. I'd like to suggest you explore: E.L.O. "Eletric Light Orchestra" songs. They're amazing. What about to start with "Last Train To London" song? Thanks a lot.
They NEED Jeff Lynne
We all NEED him.
Well, Al hung out with Paul Simon for a bit in the 60s and I believe he said he learned song writing techniques from Paul, and I'm pretty sure he has expressed that Bob Dylan is one of his big influences. There are a few early demo cuts that I have heard that are very Dylan-esque. Al Stewart is a genius, and a very humble, kind person. The older I get, the more I love his music. Great reaction gents, keep doing reactions to his music. I recommend Roads to Moscow, Almost Lucy, The End of the Day, Broadway Hotel, On the Border, and many more...
Al was pretty high up the food chain. The reason he wasn’t an absolute superstar is that the folk rock genre was always a bit niche, and by the time he did his very best work - Year of the cat, etc. - it was even more so. But he got plenty of attention, at least in the UK, from the start. Some of the stuff on “Love Chronicles”, for example, is still well worth a listen. “In Brooklyn” is a good track that foreshadows how his style would develop, and the title track was notorious for featuring the first use of the F word in any best selling record.
Yes, guys, many people have said they don’t like his voice and that his music is very mellow, but he is one of my favorite artists.
This is so joyful, seeing people hear it for the first time. Thank you.
All his music is really really good. There is always a story and always amazing music with the lyrics. Thank you for playing Al Stewart. My wife and I have seen him in concert 4 times. All of the venues were intimate so each concert is like you are getting a personal performance from Al. He always has really great collaborators playing with him. If you get the chance to see him live you will not regret it.
I saw him at the Weeley Pop festival - along with 100,000 other people.
It was the first time I heard "Love Chronicles" but that song alone was enough to get to to buy his first album (as an LP)
I rate Al Stewart alongside Harry Chapin, Lou Reed and Bob Dylan as the best (for me) "story-song writers."
Just listened to this song. Amazing and a great reaction getting into the word's 😊
A true genius is never fully appreciated during their lifetime . Al was too far ahead of his time.
Your appreciation of Al Stewart marks the three of you as gentlemen of exceptional good taste. (Still hoping that you guys will get back to Steely Dan - maybe "Black Cow" or "FM.")
Steely Dan is the universal band! Everyone I’ve ever met who enjoys music, LOVES them. Rap fans, metal heads, hillbillies, jazz lovers… And what’s not to love. “ Black Cow” is my favorite.
Roads to Moscow. Please. It may not be rock and roll but it's some of the most vital writing in music and it's real.
One of my favourite Al Stewart albums was always Love Chronicles. He just weaves such great stories.
Have you done ROADS TO MOSCOW, yet? It's one of my favorites. This one is right up there, as well.
On The Border.
GOLD!
I agree. They need to react to it next. It's my #2 after "Year Of The Cat".
Loved this song for 40 years
Al made the chorus the melody like ivy ivy
Year of the cat is his best, it's just beyond anybody anything.... Having said that.... Whatever he does is good and aften great.... He doesn't fail......
Al and the musicians must have been brought together magnetically, to quote Queen , " It's a kind of Magic ".
And because you guys quest for magic ..... you found the treasure .
Not everyone quest for that .
Having found this treasure a while back I have enjoyed your appreciation of this particular ABUNDANCE 🎉🎉🎉
Flying Sorcery is a MUST.
I love you guys, I wanna adopt you all lol 😂 If you want to listen to Al Stewart’s superb storytelling, I hope you will sample “On The Border,” and “Roads To Moscow.” They both tell a story from the past, and may leave you mournful; however, the guitar especially will grab you by the heart ♥️ Love your channel, and having a blast going through all your reactions. Cheers m8s 🥂
The first time I heard Pet Shop Boys, I thought it was Al Stewart singing!!! I can’t be the only one?!
I Like both, a lot...
But no
Neil is different
You nailed it. Al didn't get the recognition that he deserved because he is too "high btow".
His songs aren't mindless repetition. His lyrics need to be listened to. They always tell a story*. They are 3 act plays perfomed in 5 minutes or less. And most aren't about love or breaking up. They're social commentary, and musical poetry.
*Song on the Radio is probably the exception, but... Even with that song, the repetition IS part of the theme. The repeated chorus is a character on its own.
😊I will see him for the 7th time since 1975. He still ROCKS the Philly area!!!
Really good commentary. This album and 'Past Present Future' were Al Stewart's best period. The lyrics, music and arrangements came together perfectly. He's made good songs from the 1960s all the way through 2000. I always thought he was underappreciated.
Catching up on all your Al Stewart songs. ❤
This is one of his finest albums. Listen to Not The One and The Dark And The Rolling Sea from this. You will not be disappointed
The Dark And The Rolling Sea goes over so well into this number on the album.
And a lot of very good other numbers on that album too!
Its the story telling abilities 😊
Al Stewart = God
Dark and The Rolling Sea leading into this is brilliant. I'd like to know which of the two made the call on that. And then there's Renwick. The closing is at the VERY top of the best. I listen to it late at night and it's magic.....
The friend in the bar was singer/actor Michael des barres (the new wkrp in Cincinnati he fronted "the power station" that's what I heard. Maybe Al didn't want to divulge that at the time.
I think of Al Stewart as one if the 5 beat songwriters of our age. Tim Renwick’s leads in this song I find especially “dynamic” and melodic. I don’t get a “western” vibe with Tim’s leads in this song…rather Tim’s leads are so prototypically “British”.
Good to find someone resurrecting his genius. Three words…”Roads to Moscow”.
Damn right why isn't he appreciated more
Watching you be so excited about his songs is enjoyable! He is very descriptive and paints a story! Nick you have a vivid imagination with your "stories"/scenarios on these songs! He could team up with you! 😊
Love the nostalgic feel and lyrics of the song!!!! This does have influence of the Beatles. ("Day in the Life" ('I heard the news today, oh boy')).
Great solo at the end... He may also be underrated... Liked the fade.
I love seeing you guys on your Al Stewart journey. He's been my favorite since the early 70s.
I love that you are skipping around to different albums. Every one of them is different. You've now listened to 5 songs from 3 albums and one thing that they have in common is Alan Parsons as a producer.
If I might suggest your next venture into Al's music I would say "Night Train to Munich" or "Life Between the Wars" from his 1995 album "Between the Wars". He just paints such a fantastic picture with his words. You will feel like you are back in time.
Check out Love Chronicles. Al was the first person to use an expletive in a published song without being censored. Critics called him a lyrical poet. "When plucking the fruits of the bed was not enough, it grew to be less like fucking and more like making love."
Sweet sound and song even if a bit sad in parts, brings lots of nostalgic feelings. Thank you guys and Happy Thanksgiving to all!🌿🦋
Funny I am watching this on Thanksgiving 2024 ! Love Al Stewart
A rare recording from his VERY early days .... pure acoustic and raw.
The beauty of Al, he remains the "nice guy" (definitely NOT a prima donna).
His songs - indeed, most are narrative tales (to call them simply "ballads" does not do them justice) hitting the essence of the normal human existence (without focussing on the dark side only à la Lou Reed)
"Pretty Golden Hair" before Al was even 18 ... about a "rent boy!"
ruclips.net/video/b4zULQipyM8/видео.html
I recently found out that Alan Parsons produced this song (he was very successful in the music industry way before he started his “project” and stepped in front of the mic). I am not surprised. It has an “Alan Parsons’ vibe” to it.
Have you ever reacted to “Eye In the Sky?” - You definitely should.
Alan Parson produced this album , Year of The Cat and Time Passages.
Rachel, they have indeed reacted to Eye in the Sky.
A couple decades ago, a friend of mine saw a coupon for Sausages. We calculated how much each Sausage would cost if we used the coupon. It was exactly 10 cents. I began singing "I know you're in there, your just out of sight, oooooh, Dime Sausages".
"My doggie's looking for a treat at home tonight".
I thought I was the only person who enjoyed twisting lyrics in this manner. I KNOW Al would appreciate your comical take on this song. Thanks for the chuckle and for making me hungry for sausages!
@@rayeckert242 Oh. Duh. I'm a little slow today. I started looking through my catalogue of Al Stewart cd's hoping to hear "Dime Sausages" thought it one of his early songs.
Al Stewart admits to having many musical influences, one of which was Lonnie Donegan and in interviews reprimands the 'USA' for not latching on to Lonnie.
Lonnie was also a huge influence on The Beatles. I used to play his 45 on my mom’s plastic Victrola.
My favorite artist period. Modern Times both the song and album are outstanding and next to Past, Prent, and Future is my favorite album. His best song has to be Roads to Moscow in my opinion. Old Admirals has one of the most moving lines I've ever heard - "Sometimes I think the saddest thing to be is an old admiral who feels the wind, and never put to sea."
Just a thought... His friend planned trips away. Could it be that he had something happening at home, that no one knew about, that he couldn't share at the time, and his travels were to leave that situation? Just a thought. What ever, it's a great track. Spin the wheel and pick something from Past present And Future, you'll love it!!
This is your 5th Al reaction, and I have enjoyed them all, and so glad you guys have too.
Ryan, if you like the haunting, ethereal songs, then you guys should try One Stage Before from the Year of the Cat album. You'll love it. It's an allusion to reincarnation. One of my favs, althought Al never disappoints.
Love this song. One of his best although Roads to Moscow must be his best.
Very happy you got back to Al Stewart. You've only scratched the surface of his catalog. I haven't heard a bad song from Al. If you want an emotional experience, listen to Roads To Moscow. It blows me away every time I listen to it.
Yes, read his books. They're very good.
@Janet Miller HE HAS BOOKS??!! I thought Nick was just wishful thinking!! I am all in for checking this out!!