Discover America - Van Dyke Parks - Audio CD - Pre Owned CDs (Arrives in 14days)

Van Dyke Parks’ 1972 opus, "Discover America," is a vibrant, witty exploration of the American musical tapestry filtered through his singular lens. Far from a straightforward pop record, Parks weaves together calypso, ragtime, and brass band arrangements, challenging the conventions of the early '70s singer-songwriter era. His fascination with Trinidadian calypso forms the album’s core, as he reinterprets standards and obscurities from the Caribbean songbook, infusing them with orchestral flourishes and a playful American sensibility. What truly sets "Discover America" apart is Parks’ ability to recontextualize these songs, drawing unexpected connections between American and Caribbean traditions. Lyrically, the album is both reverent and slyly subversive, using historical references and clever wordplay to comment on cultural identity. The result is a record that rewards repeated listens, with its intricate arrangements and layered storytelling revealing new treasures each time. For vinyl enthusiasts and music historians alike, "Discover America" stands as an essential document—a testament to Van Dyke Parks’ boundary-pushing artistry and his uniquely panoramic view of the pop landscape. Owning this album is like holding a map to the lost highways and byways of American music, delivered with wit, intelligence, and unmistakable style. Track List: 1 - Jack Palance - 0:57 2 - Introduction - 0:27 3 - Bing Crosby - 3:00 4 - Steelband Music - 2:11 5 - The Four Mills Brothers - 1:28 6 - Be Careful - 2:50 7 - John Jones - 3:10 8 - FDR In Trinidad - 2:26 9 - Sweet Trinidad - 0:55 10 - Occapella - 3:11 11 - Sailin' Shoes - 2:10 12 - Riverboat - 3:03 13 - Ode To Tobago - 5:15 14 - Your Own Comes First - 3:25 15 - G-Man Hoover - 2:55 16 - Stars And Stripes Forever - 1:00