The Artistic Depth of ‘Songs of Leonard Cohen’

“Songs of Leonard Cohen”, the 1967 debut album from the Canadian singer-songwriter, is more than just a collection of songs; it is a profound exploration of love, faith, and the human experience. Cohen’s masterful songwriting, combined with his unique voice, paints a poignant tapestry that transcends time.

Background

Leonard Cohen, while well-regarded as a poet and novelist, harbored a strong affinity for music. His early musical inklings can be traced back to his teenage years, where he was a part of a country and western ensemble called the Buckskin Boys. By 1966, with an ambition to venture into country songwriting, he set his sights on Nashville. Fate, however, had different plans, entwining him with New York City’s burgeoning folk scene. His song “Suzanne” caught the ear of Judy Collins, and not long after, he captured the attention of renowned record producer John Hammond. Though Hammond was initially slated to produce the album, health issues led to John Simon stepping in.

Evolution from Poetry to Songwriting

It’s essential to recognize the seamless transition Cohen made from poetry to songwriting. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Cohen’s lyrics bear a distinct literary quality. Take, for example, “Suzanne.” Rather than employing simple rhymes and narratives, Cohen creates a vivid imagery of the titular character, weaving in themes of spirituality and desire.

Thematic Depth: Love, Faith, and More

Leonard Cohen’s work has always been marked by its thematic depth, and “Songs of Leonard Cohen” is no exception. Across the album, listeners find a fusion of worldly and spiritual themes.

Love in Its Many Forms

From the tenderness of “Sisters of Mercy” to the heartbreak in “Hey, That’s No Way to Say Goodbye,” love remains a consistent theme. But Cohen’s exploration is far from one-dimensional. He touches on the fleeting nature of love, the pain of separation, and the spiritual dimensions of romantic connections.

Spiritual Seeking

Songs like “So Long, Marianne” combine earthly love with a quest for spiritual meaning. Cohen, with his Jewish background and later interests in Buddhism and Christianity, often infused his songs with a blend of spiritual traditions, making them resonate with listeners of diverse backgrounds.

Recording

The recording phase of ‘Songs of Leonard Cohen’ was marked by intricate dynamics and shifts. Initially, Cohen, alongside jazz bassist Willie Ruff, was tasked by Hammond to develop guitar parts for songs like “Master Song” and “Sisters of Mercy”. However, the introduction of seasoned New York session musicians altered the intimate ambiance, unsettling the then-novice Cohen.

Unique recording requests, such as Cohen’s ask for a full-length mirror (a familiar tool from his own personal practice), were honored. But differences arose between Cohen and John Simon, the producer, especially concerning the sound direction of the album. While Cohen favored minimalism, Simon envisioned richer arrangements comprising strings and horns. These disputes manifested particularly in songs like “Suzanne” and “Hey, That’s No Way to Say Goodbye”. Notably, the instrumentals featured talents like Chester Crill, Chris Darrow, Solomon Feldthouse, and David Lindley of the band Kaleidoscope.

Musicality: Beyond the Lyrics

While Cohen’s lyrics often steal the spotlight, the musical arrangements on “Songs of Leonard Cohen” deserve equal attention.

Minimalism and Intimacy

Throughout the album, Cohen favors a minimalist approach. This stripped-down style, combined with Cohen’s deep, gravelly voice, creates an intimate listening experience, as if he’s singing directly to the listener. “Winter Lady,” for instance, is underpinned by a simple melody, allowing Cohen’s voice and lyrics to take center stage.

Eclectic Influences

While primarily a folk album, “Songs of Leonard Cohen” exhibits a range of musical influences. From the Spanish guitar on “Suzanne” to the gospel undertones in “Sisters of Mercy,” the album is an eclectic mix that showcases Cohen’s broad musical palette.

Legacy and Impact

While the initial reception of ‘Songs of Leonard Cohen’ was mixed, its lasting legacy is undeniable. Retrospective reviews hail the album for its exquisite artistry. For instance, Sylvie Simmons in Mojo in 2012 lauded it for its timelessness, and Mark Deming of AllMusic emphasized its unparalleled lyrical depth.

Ranked 195th in the 2020 revision of Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time, it’s evident that Cohen’s debut album remains an influential force in music history. Several of its tracks, such as “Stranger Song”, “Sisters of Mercy”, and “Winter Lady”, found their way into cinematic works, amplifying its cultural significance.

Cohen’s blend of poetic lyrics and deep themes has inspired countless artists. From Nick Cave to R.E.M., many have cited Cohen as an influence, underlining the enduring legacy of “Songs of Leonard Cohen.”

Conclusion

“Songs of Leonard Cohen” is more than just an album; it is a testament to Leonard Cohen’s profound artistic vision. Through his poetic lyrics, rich themes, and minimalist musical arrangements, Cohen crafted a work that continues to touch listeners deeply, decades after its release. In the pantheon of great debut albums, “Songs of Leonard Cohen” undoubtedly holds a special place, marking the emergence of a unique voice in the world of music.