Ballad Of Easy Rider

"Ballad of Easy Rider" is a captivating journey through the diverse musical landscape of 1969, as crafted by the legendary American rock band, The Byrds. This eighth studio album showcases the band's evolution and adaptability, blending folk rock, country rock, and psychedelic rock into a cohesive and engaging collection of tracks.

Fronted by Roger McGuinn, who also penned the title track, the album is a testament to the band's resilience and creativity following significant lineup changes. The title track, "Ballad of Easy Rider," was originally conceived by Bob Dylan and captures the spirit of the era with its poetic lyrics and memorable melody. The album also features a mix of original compositions and covers, including the gospel-inspired "Jesus Is Just Alright" and the poignant "Deportee (Plane Wreck at Los Gatos)."

"Ballad of Easy Rider" is notable for its experimental elements, such as the Moog synthesizer on "Fiddler a Dram (Moog Experiment)" and the alternate versions of tracks like "Oil In My Lamp" and "Tulsa County." The album's diverse sound is further highlighted by the inclusion of instrumental tracks like "Build It Up."

Originally released on Columbia Records, this album has been reissued on vinyl, offering both new and longtime fans the opportunity to experience the rich, warm sound of the original recording. With its blend of timeless songs and innovative production, "Ballad of Easy Rider" remains a significant and enjoyable entry in The Byrds' discography.