Search - Lou Reed :: Legendary

What Becomes a Legend Most? Lou, Lou, Lou. . .

Ludmila | Tallahassee, FL | 11/23/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"All those true Lou Reed afficionados out there (as I myself am) might recognize the allusion, from the album "New York;" the song being "The Beginning of a Great Adventure." Well, it is indeed the beginning of a "great adventure," and Lou Reed is the leader in this adventurous pursuit we entitle life. Regardless of whether or not you are a New Yorker or have at some time lived in New York or have visited New York or have heard all about New York and wanted to visit it, it matters not. Lou speaks of the common human experience which unites us all. And this is a truly great collection, both for those well-acquainted with Lou (including the Velvet Underground purists) and those who are just now beginning to listen to the Legendary Lou. I must state, as a sort of admonition, that although "Between Thought and Expression: the Lou Reed Anthology," is probably a better (or at least easier) way to get to know Lou Reed for those who haven't heard more beyond "Walk on the Wild Side," that this album is a guaranteed charm. It has many songs on it that are not included on the aforementioned "Between Thought and Expression Anthology," and although I can't claim to have anything but awe and amazement for this legendary songwriter, I do believe that "The Legendary Lou Reed" has something for everyone. It is a remarkable glimpse into the sordid, alcoholic, drug-ridden, and gutter-prone existence which Lou Reed so often depicts in his lyrics. One must wonder, of course, the extent to which Lou himself has personally experienced the seedier, shadier side of existence (like the pulp novel from which the Velvet Underground took their name). (For those Velvet afficionados, "Heroin," and the entire album White Light/ White Heat" gives more than an indication that our beloved New Yorkian bard has seen a more sordid side of human existence and frailty than your typical individual). Nevertheless, we get some of that on this album, and oh so much more. Some of the songs sound downright poppy (e.g., "I Love You Suzzane"), but I maintain that these songs, too, are part of what makes the magic of Lou Reed. Many people seem to have a problem with "poppy" (i.e., commercial) songs, but they might find themselves enjoying them, in spite of their non-commercial proclivities. "I feel too good; let me have my way. . ." Perhaps this lyric (from "High in the City") explains, or justifies, if that is necessary, the songs on this album that are more "user-friendly" than some would like. Well, of course I am biased, as I am one of the Lou fans for whom Lou can do no wrong (I don't believe that anyone can claim that he "sold out," or anything remotely as hideous), but his "pop" songs on this album seem to merge quite well with the less-popular ones (and this album does contain some of Lou's more popular tunes, a la "Perfect Day," and "Walk on the Wild Side"). . . there are some real gems on this album, regardless. "Good Taste" stands out: "You're making a fool of yourself by following me around. .. this proves that you've got good taste," as does "Oh Jim" ("Oh Jim how could you treat me this way. . . well, you said that you loved us, but you only made love to one of us). . ."
I will stop my Lou-loving rambling now. This is a great album. It not only stands out on its own as a great album, but it is also a tremendous collection of his hits/non-hits/and everything-else/whatever. "Can't seem to make up your mind?" about Lou Reed? Well, this album should definitely (hopefully?) persuade you, and guide you into the territory which us Lou fans habitate, peacefully or not. Yes, this album is missing some crucial songs (e.g., "Sad Song," or "Street Hassle,") but it is a wonderful collection of Lou's oeuvre, even sans songs from "New York" or "Songs for Drella." I don't intend to sound pretentious, I just love Lou so. Buy this album, at whatever Lou-stage you're at; you'll love it (or at least give it a few spins on your CD player), and if you only do the latter, well, you'll surely be left with some damn good lyrics and chords which might apply to your own life/existence/state of being/whatever. Enjoy!"

Great Compilation, Great Price

rodionromanovich | Long Island, New York | 10/27/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This compilation album gets five stars not only because it is a great collection of music, but because it is affordable as well. Music fans know that buying up all the cd's you want is expensive and most of us don't have an unlimited budget to spend solely on cd's. This album is great especially if you already have Transformer, The Blue Mask and Coney Island Baby. Why do these albums make Legendary so great? Well the answer is: Lou Reed has tons of great songs and some great albums and some not so great albums. This mini box set puts together a career spanning compilation of Reed's best work at an affordable price. The casual fan (or evolving fanatic) can grab up a bunch of great songs at one time without having to spend the $100 on all of the albums these tunes are on."