Music fans have been discussing whether one album from the legendary Bob Dylan is as good as they think – with one user dubbing it a ‘comfort album’ they can play again and again
Fans of the iconic songwriter Bob Dylan say one particular album keeps drawing them back for a very special reason.
A lively discussion unfolded on the r/BobDylan subreddit, where fans and casual listeners alike delved into the works of the much-admired songwriter, who’s currently on tour in the US promoting his ‘Rough and Rowdy Ways’ album.
The conversation soon turned to an older gem from Dylan’s discography, with many expressing their deep affection for it. While some questioned its standing against the titan tracks of Dylan’s backlog, others were curious about its true merit.
The original poster called it a “comfort album” and sharing their personal experiences with it. They wrote: “Is Nashville Skyline that good? I find myself coming back to it all the time and I adore it so much.
“However, it’s obviously not as lyrically complex or interesting as his other work, and it’s probably a weird album to put as my favourite ever. Is Nashville Skyline actually as good as I think it is, or is it just a nice comfort album?”
Released 56 years ago today, on April 9, 1969, ‘Nashville Skyline’ is Dylan’s ninth studio album. Opinions among fans are divided regarding its stature, but there’s a consensus on its “tight and concise” nature being part of its charm.
One fan pointed out: “The lyrics might not be as baroque as what’s on Blonde on Blonde, but writing lyrics as tight and concise as I Threw It All Away or Tonight I’ll Be Staying Here is just as technically impressive.”
Another added: “I think the lyrics alone are more elusive and broad compared to Blonde on Blonde but collectively, the music structure, the production, and the continuity on Nashville Skyline make it a masterpiece in a different way.
“It’s more of an ‘album’ that flows well and works well at parties or with friends when you play the whole album, comparatively.
“Just my two cents, but my best friend and I can put on Nashville Skyline and I’ll find us just vibing with our eyes closed, it’s got strong soulful aspect and the songs can make me feel heartache.”
A third fan agreed, adding: “For all his lyrical brilliance, Dylan’s ability to make nice comfort albums is really underrated. His ’69-’73 albums have some of his best ‘put it on’ music.
“It’s not the deepest music you’ve ever heard, but it sounds great. One of my favorites from this period is the Bootleg Series: Vol. 10. Pretty Saro, Time Passes Slowly, This Evening So Soon, and the entire Isle of Wight set with The Band are excellent.”
While some acknowledge the album isn’t as complex as other works by Dylan, the consensus was high for its accessible charm. One admirer noted: “I enjoy the album too. It’s not as complex as some of his others, but it’s fun, and that’s ok. There are some great songs on it, and who could turn down Dylan and Cash?”
Echoing that sentiment, another shared: “Yeah it’s great. Neither songwriting nor music need to be complex or inaccessible to be great. He made a great rootsy country rock album.”