Self Portrait

Part eleven of the DYLAN VINYL collection which is a brand-new collection of every single Bob Dylan album on high-quality 180-gram vinyl plus a collectors’ magazine

Self Portrait is a unique entry in Dylan’s discography, as it features a mix of original songs, covers, and live recordings. This eclectic mix of material has led some fans and critics to view the album as a disjointed mess, lacking in cohesive vision.However, there are those who argue that Self Portrait is actually an underrated gem. Some of the covers on the album, such as “The Boxer” and “Blue Moon”, are considered by some to be among Dylan’s best. Additionally, the album’s more lighthearted and playful tone has been praised as a refreshing change of pace from Dylan’s usually serious and introspective work.Ultimately, whether one loves or hates Self Portrait is a matter of personal taste. However, it remains an interesting and unique entry in Bob Dylan’s already legendary career.

I mean, if you’re gonna put a lot of crap on it, you might as well load it up!
Bob Dylan when asked why this was a double LP

Side 1
All the Tired Horses
Alberta #1
I Forgot More Than You’ll Ever Know
Days of 49
Early Mornin’ Rain
In Search of Little Sadie

Side 2
Let It Be Me
Little Sadie
Woogie Boogie
Belle Isle
Living the Blues
Like a Rolling Stone (IoW 1969)

Side 3
Copper Kettle
Gotta Travel On
Blue Moon
The Boxer
The Mighty Quinn (IoW 1969)
Take Me as I Am (Or Let Me Go)

Side 4
Take a Message To Mary
It Hurts Me Too
Minstrel Boy (IoW 1969)
She Belongs to Me (IoW 1969)
Wigwam
Alberta #2

My Top Three

1) All the Tired Horses
The song is unique in that Dylan does not sing any lyrics, but instead the entire song is composed of a chorus of female voices singing “All the tired horses in the sun, how am I supposed to get any riding done?” The song has a dreamy and hypnotic quality to it, with the repetitive chorus creating a sense of trance-like meditation. It’s often interpreted as a commentary on the struggle of finding motivation and purpose in life, especially when surrounded by a world that can feel overwhelming or exhausting.

2) Days of 49
Days of 49 is a traditional folk song. The song tells the story of a gold miner in the California Gold Rush. The lyrics are filled with vivid imagery of life in the mining camps, including the harsh conditions and dangers faced by the miners. Dylan’s version features his trademark vocal style and acoustic guitar, along with additional instrumentation including banjo and harmonica. The song is a tribute to the American West and the pioneers who ventured there in search of a better life.

3) Copper Kettle
Copper Kettle is a song about the simple joys of life found in the rural countryside. The lyrics tell the story of a man who is given a copper kettle by his father. He uses it to make moonshine, bringing him and his community together in celebration. Dylan’s vocals are accompanied by a lively acoustic guitar, banjo, and fiddle.