Review Summary: A masterpiece and an ideal introduction for newcomers to the Grateful Dead.
The Grateful Dead occupy a prominent place within American culture, mainly due to their well-known and extremely devoted fan base, and their legendary live concerts. That being said, though, their studio albums are also far from shabby. American Beauty is probably their most well-known release, and is frequently acclaimed as the group’s best work. Whether or not this is the case, the album is undoubtedly an extraordinary piece of music which retains its appeal even decades later.
American Beauty was the second of two studio releases by the band in the year 1970, following Workingman’s Dead. The previous album had seen the band move towards a new style, marked by heavy country and folk influences. American Beauty is in most ways a continuation of this sound, although it is perhaps more immediately accessible, and less overtly inspired by bluegrass. While the album presents music much less psychedelic than the popular image of the Grateful Dead would anticipate, this formula works astoundingly well, resulting in what is easily one of the greatest studio recordings by the prolific group.
Looking at American Beauty’s tracklist reveals that many of the songs here are among the Grateful Dead’s most well-known songs, possibly familiar to those who have never listened to any of the band’s releases. Songs like “Friend Of The Devil”, “Ripple”, and “Truckin’” are renowned, and for good reason. However, they become even better within the context of this album, which provides an excellent atmosphere due to the consistent moods created by each song.
The best way to describe the songs on American Beauty is as an amalgam of country, folk, and rock, producing a very carefree feel. The reliably pretty but unassuming melodies and the lyrics, which rely heavily on natural themes, manage to provide a remarkable vibe. While lyrically occasionally touching on grimmer topics, such as fleeing from the law in “Friend Of The Devil” and heartbreak in “Brokedown Palace”, for the most part American Beauty’s songs are eminently uplifting. The comforting “Box Of Rain” and “Sugar Magnolia”, precisely an ode to the beauty of nature and nostalgia, are clear evidence of this overarching trend. The laid-back pace of many of the songs here makes the album a relaxing listen, and the entire atmosphere of American Beauty makes it particularly appealing in good weather. With the sun shining outside, the rustic gorgeousness inherent in the release can be appreciated to full effect.
Despite its grandeur, some listeners to American Beauty might find a few minor flaws. One potential complaint is the country influences present here, given that genre’s divisive nature among music fans. This should generally not be a significant issue though, as for the most part the album is a cohesive mixture of various musical traditions. Another possible perceived weakness might be “Attics Of My Life”, the penultimate song, which does not quite match the extraordinarily-high quality of the other tracks. Less musically interesting than most of its counterparts, the song may drag on too long for some listeners. Nonetheless, it is strong lyrically, and represents only a slight decline.
Overall, this is a superb album. It stands as a testament to the fact that the Grateful Dead’s studio output was at times utterly brilliant, even if it was often overshadowed by their live performances. Evoking an earlier and unhurried age, American Beauty remains a timeless treasure for music fans of any generation.
