"Out of Our Heads" by The Rolling Stones
"Out of Our Heads" was a pivotal album for The Rolling Stones, marking their transition from primarily performing R&B covers to creating original hits.
"Out of Our Heads" by The Rolling Stones
Release Date: July 30, 1965 (US), September 24, 1965 (UK)
Recording Locations:
- Chess Studios, Chicago
- RCA Studios, Hollywood
- Regent Sound Studios, London
Producer: Andrew Loog Oldham
Historical Context:
"Out of Our Heads" was a pivotal album for The Rolling Stones, marking their transition from primarily performing R&B covers to creating original hits. The album was released during a time when the band was solidifying its identity and expanding its musical boundaries. This period saw the band achieving significant commercial success, particularly in the United States, where the album became their first number one on the Billboard 200. The album captures the raw energy and rebellious spirit of the mid-1960s, reflecting the cultural shift and the rising influence of rock 'n' roll.
You can listen to this album on YouTube.
Musicians:
- Mick Jagger: Lead vocals, harmonica, percussion
- Keith Richards: Lead guitars, backing vocals
- Brian Jones: Guitars, organ, harmonica, backing vocals
- Bill Wyman: Bass, backing vocals
- Charlie Watts: Drums, percussion
- Additional musicians: Jack Nitzsche (harpsichord on "Play with Fire"), Phil Spector (bass on "Play with Fire")
Track Listing and Song Descriptions (US Version):
Side One:
1. "Mercy, Mercy" – A cover of Don Covay's soulful track, featuring a rotating riff and high-pitched backing vocals, highlighting Jagger's gritty, soulful voice.
2. "Hitch Hike" – A Marvin Gaye cover with choppy rhythms and a cool guitar lead by Richards, though less distinctive than other versions.
3. "The Last Time" – The Stones' first major hit, blending blues and folk with twangy guitars and a frantic coda, showcasing Jagger's deep vocals.
4. "That's How Strong My Love Is" – A Roosevelt Jamison cover with an attempt at deep soul, though somewhat amateurish compared to the Stones' originals.
5. "Good Times" – A Sam Cooke cover featuring Jagger's suitable vocal range and subtle rhythms from Wyman and Watts.
6. "I'm All Right" – A live track originally from "Got Live If You Want It!" with high energy and a pure sixties vibe.
Side Two:
1. "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction" – The iconic track with Richards' famous riff and Jagger's contrasting vocal tones, expressing themes of frustration and consumerism.
2. "Cry to Me" – A blues ballad by Bert Russell, offering a quieter moment following "Satisfaction."
3. "The Under Assistant West Coast Promotion Man" – A group composition under the pseudonym Nanker Phelge, maintaining a bluesy vibe with consistent harmonica and sharp drumming.
4. "Play with Fire" – A dark folk song featuring Phil Spector's bass and Jack Nitzsche's harpsichord, recorded during a break from touring.
5. "The Spider and the Fly" – A steady-paced blues tune with double guitar grooves and harmonica, capturing a down-home feel.
6. "One More Try" – A short, optimistic boogie-woogie rocker, ending the album with a touch of Brit pop flavor.
"Out of Our Heads" was a commercial success, particularly in the US, where it topped the charts and helped cement The Rolling Stones' status as one of the leading rock bands of the era. The album's mix of R&B covers and original compositions showcased the band's versatility and set the stage for their continued evolution in rock music.
