#242 The Velvet Underground, 'Loaded' (1970)

Previously #110

‘Loaded’ is essentially the last record to be released by The Velvet Underground. Lou Reed would leave before its release, while Maureen Tucker and Sterling Morrison would leave just after. John Cale, had, of course, left the band after their second release, ‘White Light/White Heat’ (#272). This album is definitely the band’s most accessible. Its title refers to Atlantic’s request that it be loaded with hits. The album opens with lead single, ‘Who Loves The Sun,’ a catchy little ditty reminiscent of of the Beatles in respect to its melody and harmonies. Next track, which happened to be the next single, is ‘Sweet Jane,’ a song that could have been written and performed by Bruce Springsteen. ‘Rock ‘n Roll,’ is another would-be radio staple.

The album is loaded with songs that are so different to their previous output. Where their albums previously had been very experimental or unusual, this album had songs that could be played on radio for years to come. It cemented the band as one of the great chameleons of music, but it also tore them apart. It would become a major influence on bands throughout the ‘70s and beyond and holds up as a great record with well-crafted songs.

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