11 April 2025

Next July, 50 years ago, late musical genius LOU REED (1942-2013) released his 5th LP,
named METAL MACHINE MUSIC. One of the most controversial albums ever, a double one, because of its 64 minutes of almost unlistenable, distorted noise. A torture for you ears (tried again just now, but gave up after 7 minutes).

Original cover

It was clear that Reed was tired of his own commercial work and image at the time
and wanted to shock the record label with an unsaleable longplayer. Why RCA
released it anyway, was never clear.

It was recorded on a three-speed Uher machine and featured no songs or recognizably structured compositions, eschewing melody and rhythm for modulated feedback and noise music guitar effects, mixed at varying speeds by Reed.

It ruined Reed‘s reputation (temporary) and the record was panned by critics.
Yet, in 2008, Reed went on a tour playing a free improvisation of MMM and in
2011, a remastered version came out. That’s what sometimes happens with
heavily critiqued albums hated on release, but appreciated as a bold
accomplishment many years later.

A special remastered vinyl edition is being launched
tomorrow, as part of Record Store Day, edition 2025. More
info on RSD‘s website right here.

Original album
Listen at your own risk.

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