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The Jimi Hendrix Experience - Axis: Bold as Love
- Guitar god Jimi Hendrix’s second album, “Axis: Bold as Love,” manages to combine the hard-edged sound pioneered in his debut “Are You Experienced” with a softer, more soulful approach to songwriting. That’s not to say the album doesn’t feature heaps of face-melting guitar wizardry from Hendrix, but the songs themselves are more dynamic and intelligent. Many of the songs have an R&B flavor to them that tugs at your heartstrings while blowing your mind.
“EXP” is a skit opening about UFOs and aliens and is no doubt the result of a hazy studio session or two. “Up from the Skies” is a jazzy number with soft wah-wah ambience from Hendrix’s guitar. “Spanish Castle Magic” is more characteristic Hendrix riffery, with overdriven guitars and a blazing solo. “Wait Until Tomorrow” recalls Motown with its soulful mid-tempo verses and high-pitched backing vocals. “Ain’t No Telling” again recalls older Hendrix territory, though the dual guitars add another layer of complexity to the song. “Little Wing” is a true classic and the best song on the album. Psychedelic lyrics and trippy vocal effects with an incredibly complex, yet subtle guitar line overflow into one of his best and most passionate solos. “If 6 Was 9” is a rockin’ statement of hippy solidarity with delayed guitar effects. “Castles Made of Sand” is an anti-war ballad with yet another soulful chorus. “One Rainy Wish” is a slower, almost sad song with cool stereo effects that Hendrix innovated within the studio. “Bold as Love” is the perfect closer for an album. It has the feel of finality with a slow beginning and intense buildup.
“Axis” is a special album in that it has plenty of butt-kicking Hendrix guitar solos and riffs, but at the same time has an inexplicable undercurrent of sentimentality. For every hint of sorrow on the album comes at least one shred of hopefulness. The album is innovative because of its unique songwriting and the studio effects that make the album sound as though its swirling around in your brain. Check this classic out in any mood.
Reviewer: Kris Lorenz
new
Reviewer's Rating: 9.5
Reader's Rating: 10.00
Reader's Votes: 2
Added: 10-Jul-2009
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