Now on high quality 180g vinyl! Over 40 years after its release, this record still slays; if any album is deserving of the "classic" tag, it's The Velvet Underground & Nico. Lou Reed's affected vocals, Nico's female Lugosi style recitations, Cale's droning strings, Moe Tucker's minimal kit - this album laid down paths that musicians today are still trying to follow. If you've never had the chance to check this one out, just pick any track: "I'm Waiting For The Man," "Sunday Morning," "Venus In Furs," "All Tomorrow's Parties," "There She Goes Again," "Femme Fatale." There's not a bad song on here. Can't give this one high enough praise. 11 tracks total with that iconic Andy Warhol-designed gatefold sleeve (with peelable banana sticker!) and full liner notes. Highly recommended.

• music label: Verve 1967 / 2008

reviewed by TKB 12/2013