By 1971, The Byrds were a band in flux. Their previous album, "Byrdmaniax," with its orchestral arrangements and complex song structures, had received mixed reviews and disappointing sales. Determined to shift course, they returned to simpler, rootsier sounds for their next release, "Farther Along."
Back to Basics
The core of "Farther Along" was recorded during an intense five-day session in London. The band, led by frontman Roger McGuinn with Chris Hillman, Skip Battin, and Gene Parsons, largely self-produced the album. The emphasis was on live, unadorned recordings that captured their raw energy.
Exploring Roots and Tradition
The album reflects a conscious return to traditional folk and country influences. It features covers of songs by Bob Dylan, The Louvin Brothers, and traditional gospel tunes like the title track. The band also incorporated bluegrass instrumentation, showcasing their versatility.
Controversial Content
One track, "Bugler" (sometimes listed as "Bristol Steam Convention Blues") caused a stir due to its sexually suggestive lyrics. Some viewed it as an interesting exploration of bolder subject matter, while others found it out of step with the band's earlier image.
