Jimi Hendrix - 'Axis: Bold As Love' (UHQR Vinyl Rip)

 

Let’s take a trip down memory lane to 1967, a time when expectations were exceptionally high for the follow-up to the Jimi Hendrix Experience’s groundbreaking debut album, 'Are You Experienced'.  Most fans would have been content if Jimi had simply rehashed some of its most radio-ready moments, such as "Purple Haze", "Fire" or "Foxy Lady".

But, Jimi, like all artistic geniuses, resisted the pressure to deliver more of the same.  Instead, in January 1968 (December 1967 in the UK), he released 'Axis: Bold as Love', less than a year after 'Are You Experienced'.  'Axis: Bold As Love' focused on refining his melodies, lyrics, and, with producer Chas Chandler, who helmed the first album, creating a more expansive production.  While the guitar playing and tone were exceptional, they were integrated into song structures rather than being as prominent as on his previous or later sets.

Only one single was released, "Up From the Skies"/"One Rainy Wish", which went nowhere.  However, the material flowed together more organically as a cohesive statement rather than a batch of 45s, as in the previous offering. The album rose to #3 on the American charts and was considered a success, both commercially and artistically.

The dozen songs, excluding an opening two-minute sci-fi piece titled "Exp", span a range of genres, from the funky soul of "Wait Until Tomorrow" to the bubbling jazzy undertones of "Up from the Skies".  "One Rainy Wish" features psychedelic R&B, while "Little Wing" and "Castles Made of Sand" evoke a glistening dreaminess.  The latter, with its groundbreaking backwards guitar solo, is particularly noteworthy.  Dylan-esque lyrics, dramatic, provocative time and tempo changes, and oblique, spoken-word poetry are evident in "If 6 Was 9".  Alongside these elements, the driving rock of "You Got Me Floatin" and "Ain’t No Tellin" contribute to the collection’s forward-looking and genre-breaking nature.

Jimi along with engineer Eddie Kramer and producer Chas Chandler spent countless hours at London's Olympic Studios meticulously constructing and condensing these tracks.  Seven of them don’t exceed the three-minute mark, while only one song, "If 6 Was 9" surpasses the five-minute mark.  Despite their shorter lengths, nothing appears rushed.  Instead, the meticulous overdubbing creates layers of sound, showcasing the thoughtful crafting of each tune.

'Axis: Bold As Love' is by far my favorite Jimi Hendrix album, and the one I reach for most.

Today's freeload is the UHQR (Ultra High Quality Record) released in April 2019 by Analogue Productions on 200 gram vinyl.  This is the stereo version, and was limited to 5000 pressings.  The sonics on this reissue are nothing short of extraordinary.

For the freeload, what are some of your favorite song intros?