Bob Dylan’s Bootleg Series Volume 18: Through the Open Window, 1956-1963
It was only a matter of time before Bob Dylan’s long-running Bootleg Series would delve into the nascent stages of his illustrious career. While various specific eras of Dylan’s life and artistry have been meticulously explored since the series began in 1991, the early years of his journey as a performer and recording artist remained largely untouched until now.
Unveiling the Early Years
The release of Bootleg Series Volume 18: Through the Open Window, 1956-1963, comes at an opportune moment, especially with the recent Oscar-nominated biopic, A Complete Unknown, keeping Dylan’s legacy fresh in the public consciousness. This comprehensive eight-disc collection spans from a private recording made in 1956 at a St. Paul music shop to Dylan’s acclaimed concert at Carnegie Hall in October 1963.
Tracing Dylan’s Evolution
Through the Open Window chronicles Dylan’s transformation from a traditional folk artist who primarily covered songs to a groundbreaking singer-songwriter crafting original material. The first disc features solo acoustic performances of traditional tracks such as “K.C. Moan,” “Remember Me,” Woody Guthrie’s “Jesus Christ,” and Shirley and Lee’s classic “Let the Good Times Roll.” By the final disc, listeners are treated to Dylan’s own compositions, including “Only a Pawn in Their Game” and “When the Ship Comes In,” as he captivates audiences.
The Journey of Robert Zimmerman
This collection narrates the metamorphosis of Robert Zimmerman from Duluth, Minnesota, into Bob Dylan, the voice of a generation. The story unfolds through a treasure trove of home recordings, club performances, outtakes from his initial three albums, radio appearances, and the complete Carnegie Hall concert from 1963. Across 139 tracks—over four dozen of which are previously unreleased—Dylan begins to carve out his identity and artistic voice.
Key Highlights and Rare Gems
Among the notable inclusions is an eight-selection segment from the famous “party tape” recorded in December 1961, shortly after Dylan completed his debut album. This pivotal moment marks the beginning of his artistic restlessness, which would become a hallmark of his career. By mid-1962, Dylan was already working on his second album, The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan, which would feature primarily original songs.
Subsequent discs in Through the Open Window further explore Dylan’s evolution, setting the stage for the transitional period chronicled in The Cutting Edge: 1965-1966: The Bootleg Series Vol. 12. Fans can expect early live renditions of “Don’t Think Twice, It’s All Right,” socially charged songs like “John Brown,” an outtake from The Times They Are A-Changin’ titled “Seven Curses,” and gripping performances of “Who Killed Davey Moore?” and “A Hard Rain’s A-Gonna Fall” from Carnegie Hall.
A Glimpse into Dylan’s Early Narrative
This volume also sheds light on the often-misrepresented tales of Dylan’s past, showcasing the protest songs he would later distance himself from, alongside a variety of live performances that shaped his early narrative. While Through the Open Window may not unveil as many new revelations as previous Bootleg Series installments, it serves a clear purpose: it illustrates the humble beginnings of an artist destined for greatness.
Conclusion
Bob Dylan’s Bootleg Series Volume 18: Through the Open Window, 1956-1963 presents a rich tapestry of the artist’s formative years. It encapsulates the essence of Dylan’s early journey, offering fans a deeper understanding of how he evolved into the cultural icon he is today. Through this collection, listeners can appreciate the early steps of a genius in the making, solidifying Dylan’s legacy as one of the most influential figures in music history.
FAQs
What is the significance of the Bootleg Series Volume 18?
This volume represents a comprehensive exploration of Bob Dylan’s early career, covering his transition from a traditional folk singer to a significant singer-songwriter.
What types of recordings are included in this collection?
The collection includes home recordings, live performances, outtakes from his first three albums, and a complete concert from Carnegie Hall in 1963.
Are there previously unreleased tracks in this volume?
Yes, Through the Open Window features over four dozen previously unreleased tracks, providing fans with new insights into Dylan’s early work.
How does this volume connect to Dylan’s later work?
This collection lays the groundwork for Dylan’s later artistic evolution, setting the stage for the innovative work he would produce in the mid-1960s.
