TockTockTock

Well, I haven't posted a 'versus' thread in a while. So, I figured I would proceed with making another one. This time the contenders are that of two landmark recordings of early experimental rock. One being the nihilistic, minimalist The Velvet Underground & Nico (1967) and the other being Captain Beefheart's intricate and Dada-esque Trout Mask Replica (1969). I realize they are on completely different ends of the experimental rock spectrum, but try to make an attempt at choosing one and please explain why. Also, feel free to share your thoughts, opinions, and/or interpretation of your chosen album (or both if you wish). Keep in mind that there is not an "objectively superior" choice between the two, and the thought of that is absolutely ridiculous. This is merely based on personal preference... nothing more.

Anyways, in my honest opinion, they are both masterpieces in the realm of contemporary music and should be treated with a certain level of respect (for both their influence on music as well as their innovation). I feel that this might stimulate an engaging discussion or two... So help prove me right.

...vs...

Frownland

Trout Mask Replica, here. There is never a dull moment for me on that piece of art, even when the Captain takes a moment for an a Capella piece. I do hold a massive amount of respect for the Velvet Underground record, even though it is edged out by White Light, White Heat. The Velvet Underground and Nico does have a few skippers on it, especially the more Nico-oriented songs, while TMR has 28 beautiful tracks on it.

On the other hand, I prefer the artwork of VU and Nico as opposed to TMR, but still.
Trout Mask Replica 10/10
The Velvet Underground and Nico 9/10

Don't think I'll really be surprising anyone with my vote, though.

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Goofle

I would have to say TMR as well, and I haven't even given that more than three listens, whereas TVU&N has at least 10 plays under it's belt.

Love both, and you are right to say neither is "objectively superior" as both are clearly so great.

Going to listen to both in a row now, I may edit this later

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Farfisa

Are you trying to drive me insane? I know it's a bit cliche, but "Trout Mask Replica" and "The Velvet Underground & Nico" are what got me into Avant-Garde music. I listened to Trout Mask first, but it didn't grab me immediately, but anyway. I can't remember why or when exactly I picked up both records, I think I may have downloaded them on a whim.

Well, I keep going in the other direction in terms of where I want to go, so I'm gonna keep this short. "The Velvet Underground & Nico" is what overall upped my appreciation of Rock & Roll as well as introducing me to new concepts and genres. "Trout Mask Replica" is what wanted me to be as strange as I could be, to play something amazing, but strangely at the same time. I'm just gonna go with "The Velvet Underground & Nico" before I drive myself insane (as it gets played more frequently than Trout Mask).

Frownland

Two people voted, but did not write as to why. This is what I hate about music banter, otherwise--apart from the trolls--it is a fantastic site.

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Studies show that when a given norm is changed in the face of the unchanging, the remaining contradictions will parallel the truth.

Howard the Duck

Trout Mask, I guess, it's far more rewarding and never wears out its welcome - though it has to be said that when I try to learn the album, i found it's mostly random notes thrown together - i also heard some band played different things on their respective instruments instead of a cohesive song, it came out sounding like TMR

VU & N is seminal sure, but i didn't really like side 2 all that much

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James

I was guilty of voting without writing anything. I was tired and couldn't be bothered, but now I will!
Both are undoubtedly fantastic albums, and both deserve masses of respect for their influence and innovation. The album I enjoy more though is The Velvet Underground and Nico. In terms of influence, it gave more to punk and such, my preferred genres and I respect i for that. In terms of sound I enjoy it more too, Reed's and Nico's vocals are both fantastic and I would rank both amongst the most distinctive voices in music. The guitar, the bass, the wild drumming. I just love it. When I was younger it was the most mysterious album on my dad's shelf, it had a sort of special quality about it and I think it still does today. The band have a mystic surrounding them, Andy Warhol's involvement adds to that. When I did actually get around to listening to it, I was very moved. It's just an amazing, unique album(if you discount all the copycats).

OccultHawk

They're both 5 star works of genius but over the years the Beefheart has spent a little more time on my stereos.

bob.

i would have top go with VU all the way.....to be honest Trout mask for the most part annoys me....and must be taken in small doses (i'm not saying i don't find it amazing and influencial) just annoying when attempted all at once.....whereas the VU and Nico is sublime tio mine ears

Sneer

The VU & Nico, hands down. It is the most important album to me in terms of the development of my musical palette. The songs are beautifully crafted, full of depth and meaning, whilst despite the experimentation that fizzes and crashes throughout, there is an accessibility to the music. It's an album that will never lose its appeal, one of my favourites for sure.

I appreciate TMR for it's innovation, and do enjoy it from time to time - but it's an album I respect more than like. There are at least 3 Beefheart albums that I gain more of a positive listening experience from.

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