something I am grateful for today

[johncomic]

Parklife by Blur, released on this date twenty years ago.

I am one of those who feel that this album represents the artistic pinnacle of Britpop -- exquisitely well-crafted musically (i.e., crammed full of great songs), and lyrically an accomplished love letter to and examination of contemporary British society. All the things that made Britpop Britpop, done as well as they ever had been or ever would be. It sold massively, entering the album chart at number one and spawning two Top Ten singles and another two Top Twenties. Parklife is what made Blur superstars in the UK and Britpop the undisputed Happening Thing for years to come.

[Hear This Is a Low -- not released as a single but one of my fave tracks on the album... and it has been held up as an example showing that Britpop was capable of Beatles levels of artistry. YMMV.]

Comments

[abbeyrd.livejournal.com]

Yesssss. One of my favorite albums, from start to finish!

[johncomic.livejournal.com]

I knew you would be on board for this one!

[abbeyrd.livejournal.com]

And regarding your comment about the artistry of Britpop: I agree with you on "This is a Low", and would also throw "The Universal" into the ring.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BrbxWOMpwfs&feature=kp

[johncomic.livejournal.com]

The Universal will have its turn next year... ;) :P

[abbeyrd.livejournal.com]

My bad! I got too excited!

[johncomic.livejournal.com]

Hee!