Kevin Ayers Joy Of A Toy Vinyl
Introduction
Kevin Ayers was one of the most innovative and influential musicians of his time. He was a founding member of the legendary British psychedelic rock band, Soft Machine. After leaving Soft Machine in 1968, Ayers went on to pursue a solo career that produced some of the most creative and eclectic music of the 1970s. One of his most acclaimed albums is Joy Of A Toy, which was originally released in 1969. This article will explore the history of the Joy Of A Toy vinyl and what makes it such an iconic piece of music history.
The Making Of Joy Of A Toy
Joy Of A Toy was Kevin Ayers' debut solo album. It was recorded over a period of several months in 1968 and early 1969. The album was produced by Ayers himself, along with Peter Jenner, who had previously worked with Pink Floyd. The album features a wide range of musical styles, from psychedelic rock to avant-garde jazz to whimsical pop. Ayers' unique voice and songwriting style are showcased throughout the album.
The album features a number of guest musicians, including Soft Machine bandmates Robert Wyatt and Mike Ratledge, as well as guitarist David Bedford and cellist Paul Buckmaster. The album's cover art, which features a photograph of Ayers holding a toy guitar, was designed by Hipgnosis, the legendary album cover design team responsible for many iconic album covers of the 1970s.
The Songs Of Joy Of A Toy
Joy Of A Toy features ten tracks, each of which showcases Ayers' unique songwriting style and musical vision. The album opens with "Joy Of A Toy Continued," a psychedelic instrumental that sets the tone for the rest of the album. Other standout tracks include "Town Feeling," a whimsical pop song with a catchy melody and memorable lyrics, and "Girl On A Swing," a haunting ballad with a beautiful cello accompaniment.
The album also features several experimental tracks, including "Song For Insane Times," a free-form jazz improvisation with Ayers' spoken-word poetry layered over the top, and "Stop This Train (Again Doing It)," a psychedelic rock track with a driving beat and hypnotic guitar riffs. The album's closing track, "Oleh Oleh Bandu Bandong," is a playful instrumental that showcases Ayers' playful side.
The Legacy Of Joy Of A Toy
Joy Of A Toy is widely regarded as one of the most innovative and influential albums of the psychedelic rock era. It has influenced countless musicians over the years, and its impact can still be felt in modern music today. The album's unique blend of musical styles and Ayers' unconventional approach to songwriting have made it a timeless classic.
Today, the Joy Of A Toy vinyl is a highly sought-after collector's item. Original copies of the album can fetch hundreds of dollars on the secondhand market. The album has also been reissued several times over the years, most recently in 2019 on vinyl and CD.
Conclusion
Kevin Ayers' Joy Of A Toy vinyl is a true masterpiece of music history. Its innovative blend of musical styles and Ayers' unique songwriting style have made it a timeless classic that continues to inspire musicians and fans alike. Whether you're a die-hard fan of Ayers' music or simply a lover of great music, the Joy Of A Toy vinyl is a must-have addition to any record collection.