Like many albums in Bob Dylan’s extensive discography, Desire didn’t start the way it ultimately ended.
The Evolution of Desire
Following the triumphant success of Blood on the Tracks, Bob Dylan gathered a large ensemble of musicians in July 1975 to begin work on what would become Desire. Initially, the studio buzzed with over two dozen musicians, including violinists, accordion and mandolin players, and even the legendary Eric Clapton. However, by the time Desire was released on January 16, 1976, the grand vision had been reined in significantly.
Ambition and Collaboration
Desire stands as one of Dylan’s most ambitious endeavors, featuring two expansive narratives co-written with Jacques Levy, a psychologist and theater director from New York. Furthermore, three other tracks on the album are inspired by a screenplay based on a lesser-known novella by Joseph Conrad.
Musical Themes and Styles
A Shift in Songwriting
In contrast to the deeply personal nature of Blood on the Tracks, Desire marks a return to the storytelling style that first established Dylan’s legendary status over a decade earlier.
Centerpieces of Real-Life Drama
The album opens with “Hurricane,” an eight-and-a-half-minute track detailing the real-life struggles of boxer Rubin Carter, who was wrongfully charged with murder in 1966. The song’s release sparked both controversy and awareness around the themes of racism and injustice, resonating strongly with audiences. Remarkably, despite its length and heavy subject matter, “Hurricane” became a Top 40 hit, cementing its place in Dylan’s storied career.
The Story of Joey Gallo
On the album’s second side, “Joey” narrates the life and violent demise of mobster Joey Gallo, killed in 1972. While Gallo’s past is far from clean, Dylan crafts a compassionate narrative over 11 intricate minutes, showcasing his ability to evoke empathy through vivid storytelling.
The Band and Sound
Desire’s sonic landscape is defined by a streamlined band, consisting of a quintet that included Dylan, singer Emmylou Harris, and violinist Scarlet Rivera. Rivera’s contributions are particularly notable, lending the album its unique sound and emotional depth.
The Legacy of Desire
A High Point in Dylan’s 1970s Career
Comprising nine tracks, including the standout “Mozambique” and the poignant closing piece “Sara,” Desire is often considered Dylan’s last significant album of the 1970s. After this release, Dylan experienced a series of fluctuating successes, with his music lacking the same vigor until a revival in the late 1990s.
Commercial Success
Similar to its predecessors, Blood on the Tracks and Planet Waves, Desire reached No. 1 on the charts, marking Dylan’s last chart-topping album until he achieved this feat again with Modern Times in 2006.
The Rolling Thunder Revue
Shortly after completing the album, Dylan embarked on the Rolling Thunder Revue, a tour that embodied the gypsy troubadour spirit of Desire, bringing the album’s essence to life on stage.
Conclusion
Desire remains a landmark in Bob Dylan’s illustrious career, showcasing his storytelling prowess and ability to tackle complex themes through music. Its blend of personal reflection and social commentary continues to resonate with listeners, solidifying its place in the pantheon of classic rock albums.
FAQs
What is the significance of the song “Hurricane”?
“Hurricane” is significant for its focus on the wrongful conviction of boxer Rubin Carter, shedding light on issues of racial injustice and becoming a rallying cry for civil rights activists.
Who co-wrote the narratives in Desire?
Jacques Levy co-wrote the album’s two main narratives with Bob Dylan, bringing a theatrical and literary depth to the songwriting.
What is the overall theme of Desire?
The overall theme of Desire revolves around storytelling with a focus on real-life figures, blending personal experiences with broader social issues.
How did Desire perform commercially?
Desire reached No. 1 on the charts, marking it as one of Dylan’s successful albums in the 1970s and his last chart-topping record until 2006.
