Turn! Turn! Turn!

"Turn! Turn! Turn!" is the second studio album by the iconic folk rock band The Byrds, released in December 1965. This seminal work captures the band at the height of their early creative prowess, featuring the distinctive harmonies and jangle-pop guitar sounds that would come to define their signature style. The album is a blend of folk, country, and emerging psychedelic influences, showcasing the band's versatility and innovative spirit.

The album opens with the title track, a stirring rendition of Pete Seeger's "Turn! Turn! Turn! (To Everything There Is a Season)," which became one of The Byrds' most enduring hits. This track, along with other standout songs like "Set You Free This Time," "He Was a Friend of Mine," and a cover of Bob Dylan's "The Times They Are A-Changin'," highlights the band's ability to infuse traditional folk material with a modern, rock sensibility.

"Turn! Turn! Turn!" also includes several lesser-known gems that add depth and variety to the album. Tracks like "The World Turns All Around Her" and "Satisfied Mind" showcase the band's knack for selecting and interpreting covers, while original compositions like "It Won't Be Wrong" and "Wait and See" demonstrate their songwriting prowess. The album also features several previously unreleased tracks and alternate mixes, providing a fascinating glimpse into The Byrds' creative process.

With a runtime of just under 48 minutes, "Turn! Turn! Turn!" is a concise yet impactful collection of songs that reflects the cultural and musical shifts of the mid-1960s. The album's enduring appeal lies in its timeless melodies, rich harmonies, and the band's unique blend of influences, making it a essential listen for fans of folk rock and classic rock alike. The album's legacy is further cemented by its inclusion of notable members David Crosby and Gene Clark, whose contributions to the band's sound and songwriting are evident throughout.