Sessions (Fred Neil album)
Sessions is the second studio album by American folk singer-songwriter Fred Neil, released in 1968. It is considered by many to be Neil's finest work, showcasing his distinctive baritone voice and his songwriting prowess. The album features a blend of blues, folk, and jazz influences, creating a unique and atmospheric sound.
Notable tracks on Sessions include "Everybody's Talkin'," which was later popularized by Harry Nilsson after it was featured in the film Midnight Cowboy; "The Dolphins," a mellow and introspective song often covered by other artists; and "That's the Bag I'm In," a bluesy track reflecting on life's hardships.
The album's production is relatively sparse, allowing Neil's voice and guitar playing to take center stage. Session musicians contributed additional instrumentation, including bass, drums, and vibraphone, adding depth and texture to the arrangements.
Sessions was released on Capitol Records and, while not a commercial success upon its initial release, it has gained a significant cult following over the years and is now regarded as a classic of the late 1960s folk-rock scene. It has been reissued multiple times and remains a testament to Fred Neil's talent as a singer, songwriter, and interpreter of American musical traditions. The album's influence can be heard in the work of subsequent generations of folk and Americana musicians.