Released in 1974, Bluejeans & Moonbeams stands as one of Captain Beefheart's most controversial and divisive works, as it presented a departure from the avant-garde experimentalism he was known for. Yes, Bluejeans & Moonbeams was an attempt to embrace a more accessible, mainstream sound, and despite failing to set the charts on fire, this classic album achieved that goal, from a sonic perspective, at least. That said, the record maintains elements of Beefheart’s unique style, albeit while leaning toward a more melodic and softer approach; a shift that alienated some long-time fans. However, to dismiss it based on difference is to miss out on the wonder of this classic release. Hence, I implore you to give it another shot for Bluejeans & Moonbeams grows on you the more you listen to it.
Apart from the music, the album’s cover art is an ideal accompaniment and indicative of the era’s cover art designs that would stand out on the shelf of your local record store whilst simultaneously being a piece of visual art worthy of an art gallery. Of course, as captivating as the artwork is, can you really tell an album by its cover? Well, considering that The Magic Band had quit on mass, following the recording and release of Beefheart’s other 1974 release, Unconditionally Guaranteed, billing the album as Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band seems somewhat disingenuous, especially to longtime fans. However, if you consider The Magic Band as a container for the musicians that would accompany Beefheart, and those musicians were subject to change, then it isn’t necessarily misleading. That aspect alone would likely irritate some as the individual musicians are often as iconic as the lead vocalist, but it isn’t as if the replacement musicians were second-rate; anything but.
As it pertains to the sonic prowess of the CD-quality lossless Apple Music stream, it’s stunningly beautiful. Every musical element is given room to breathe and the soundstage is well-developed and all-encompassing. You’ll find yourself being carried away on a musical journey as this album has been recorded, mixed, and mastered exceptionally well. So well, in fact, that I hope Virgin Records never remasters the album, beyond this most recent edition, for it’s sonically one of the most pleasing albums you’re ever likely to hear.
Party Of Special Things To Do sets the tone for the album, featuring a bluesy groove with a funky undercurrent. Beefheart’s trademark growl is present, but the easy-going rhythm and more structured approach will likely deter those who prefer his earlier works. Nevertheless, it isn’t so far removed from his experimental core that it would deter listeners; although I’m certain some would challenge that statement.
Same Old Blues is a cover of J.J. Cale's I Got The Same Old Blues and this interpretation is nothing short of a masterpiece. The melancholic, slower, and almost lethargic tempo works incredibly well with Beefheart’s vocal styling and his emotive delivery not only adds depth to the song but it’s amongst Beefheart’s finest recordings.
Observatory Crest is beautifully serene. Beefheart’s vocals are subdued and tender, but the musical bed and psychedelic ambience make this a standout and in many respects a hidden gem.
Pompadour Swamp blends blues-based rhythms with a quirky vocal presentation. The gritty earthy quality of Beefheart’s vocals perfectly complements the music and while it may represent his traditional style, Pompadour Swamp has just enough spit and polish to ensure that it remains accessible whilst appealing to those looking for Beefheart’s more experimental output.
Captain’s Holiday is an incredible, and ideally titled, instrumental track that showcases the skill of Beefheart's Magic Band. It’s a relaxed jazzy piece that offers a reprieve from Beefheart’s vocal intensity but is ideally situated in the album’s sequencing. While this track doesn’t aim to be notable, it provides a lovely interlude to the album’s middle section that should be celebrated for it’s one of the most exceptional instrumental tunes you’re ever likely to hear.
Rock ’N’ Roll’s Evil Doll has a fun, upbeat vibe, with a touch of rockabilly that will get you toe-tapping and head-bopping. Though much more straightforward than much of Beefheart’s earlier works, it’s another song from the album that could be best associated with his experimental era.
Further Than We’ve Gone slows things down considerably with this soulful number that has a melancholic beauty to it, with tender instrumentation, and a compelling melody that captures a softer side of Beefheart. Further Than We’ve Gone also has one of the very best piano and guitar performances that I’ve ever had the good fortune of hearing, for the musical bed heard on this tune is some of the very best in all of recorded music history, thereby making this not only a highlight from the album but a hidden masterpiece from the 70s.
Twist Ah Luck features a killer rhythmic groove with a touch of funk that is extremely engaging. It’s songs such as this that make one question why this is one of Beefheart’s most disliked releases and all I can suggest is that one should not contrast it with his other works for isolating this release on its own will likely yield greater acceptance and appreciation.
Bluejeans And Moonbeams is a surreal ballad-styled piece that features one of Beefheart’s most gentle, yet exceptional, vocal performances. If nothing else, Bluejeans And Moonbeams is an ideal title track and a perfect closer that will not only leave you in a reflective mood but will encourage you to spin the record again for once Bluejeans & Moonbeams captures your soul, you can seldom listen to it only once.
Bluejeans & Moonbeams, while often regarded as one of Captain Beefheart's most controversial albums, also appeals to his traditionally unpredictable nature for it, in itself, is a musical experiment that stands out in Beefheart’s eclectic catalogue. Fans of Beefheart’s chaotic genius may find the simplicity and accessibility of this release to be too far removed from his broader catalogue, but Bluejeans & Moonbeams reveals a different side of Beefheart—a more melodic, introspective artist capable of crafting gentle and emotionally resonant songs. For listeners willing to embrace this softer approach, this album offers a rewarding experience; one that is amongst the greatest released in 1974.