I continue my review of Rolling Stones albums today with “Beggars Banquet,” released in 1968, and regarded as a pivotal album in the band’s career and a seminal work in the rock music canon. After experimenting with psychedelic sounds on their previous album, “Their Satanic Majesties Request,” The Rolling Stones returned to their roots with “Beggars Banquet,” embracing a raw and earthy blues-rock sound that would come to define their music for years to come. The mood of “Beggars Banquet” is raw blues and the flavor country, with acoustic guitars dominating many songs. Noteworthy for this album is the minimal contributions of band founder Brian Jones, who was struggling with drug addiction and the controversial (for the time) proposed album cover, which delayed its release for several months.
The album opens with “Sympathy for the Devil,” based on the book “The Master and Margarita,” a track that immediately sets the tone for the record. With its driving rhythm, conga drums, and menacing lyrics, the song portrays a first-person narrative from the perspective of Satan, weaving through historical events and highlighting humanity’s capacity for evil. Mick Jagger’s performance, coupled with Keith Richards’ guitar work, makes this song one of the band’s most iconic. The layered percussion and background “woo-woo” chants contribute to an almost hypnotic atmosphere, making it a standout track and a staple in The Rolling Stones’ live performances.
Following the intense opener, the album shifts to the gritty “No Expectations,” a mournful ballad featuring Brian Jones on slide guitar. This song exemplifies the band’s ability to evoke deep emotion through simple yet powerful melodies and lyrics. Jones’ slide guitar adds a poignant touch, complementing Jagger’s soulful vocal delivery. “No Expectations” is a beautiful example of the band’s blues influences, stripped down to their essence.
The album continues with “Dear Doctor,” a humorous country-blues tune that showcases The Rolling Stones’ versatility and willingness to experiment with different genres. The song’s narrative, about a jilted lover contemplating marriage, is delivered with tongue-in-cheek humor, and Jagger’s exaggerated Southern accent adds to the playful atmosphere.
“Parachute Woman” is a raw and primal blues track, driven by Richards’ distorted guitar riff and Jagger’s suggestive lyrics. The song’s lo-fi production gives it an unpolished edge, capturing the essence of the band’s early blues influences. Its simplicity and directness are part of its appeal, reflecting the band’s return to a more straightforward and authentic sound.
“Jigsaw Puzzle” closes the first half of the album with a sprawling narrative that paints a vivid picture of disillusionment and chaos. The song’s lyrics, filled with colorful characters – including the band themselves – and surreal imagery, are reminiscent of Bob Dylan’s storytelling style. Musically, it features a steady, rolling rhythm and acoustic and slide guitars courtesy of Keith Richards. The song builds, creating a sense of impending resolution that never quite arrives, mirroring the uncertainty and tumult of the era.
The second half opens with “Street Fighting Man,” a politically charged anthem that captures the unrest and upheaval of the late 1960s. Inspired by the anti-war protests and civil rights movement, the song’s aggressive acoustic guitar riff and pounding drums create a sense of urgency and defiance. Jagger’s lyrics, delivered with a sneer, call for revolution and resistance, making “Street Fighting Man” a powerful statement on the socio-political climate of the time. Banned by several radio stations, “Street Fighting Man” was a product of its time and given today’s socio-political climate around the world, would likely chart if released today.
“Prodigal Son,” a traditional blues song by Reverend Robert Wilkins, is given a faithful and respectful rendition by The Rolling Stones. The band’s stripped-down arrangement, featuring acoustic guitar, highlights their deep appreciation for the blues tradition. Jagger’s vocal delivery is earnest and heartfelt, paying homage to the song’s origins while making it their own.
“Stray Cat Blues” is one of the album’s darker and more controversial tracks, with lyrics that push the boundaries of decency and propriety. The song’s raw, menacing guitar riff and driving rhythm create a sense of danger and sleaze, while Jagger’s provocative lyrics explore themes of youthful rebellion and sexual experimentation. Despite its contentious subject matter, “Stray Cat Blues” is a compelling and powerful track that showcases the band’s willingness to confront taboo topics.
“Factory Girl” is a folk-inspired song that tells the story of a working-class girl waiting for her lover. The song’s simple acoustic arrangement, featuring mandolin and fiddle, creates a warm and intimate atmosphere. Jagger’s lyrics are tender and affectionate, offering a glimpse of everyday life and romance. “Factory Girl” stands out for its sincerity and unpretentiousness, providing a contrast to some of the album’s heavier themes.
The album closes with “Salt of the Earth,” a tribute to the working class and a call for solidarity. The song’s anthemic chorus is both uplifting and poignant, celebrating the resilience and strength of ordinary people. The gospel-inspired arrangement, featuring piano and choir-like backing vocals, adds to the song’s sense of grandeur and hope. “Salt of the Earth” serves as a fitting conclusion to the album, encapsulating its themes of struggle, resilience, and humanity.
In summary, “Beggars Banquet” is a landmark album that marked a significant turning point for The Rolling Stones. Its return to roots-oriented blues and rock, combined with its exploration of social and political themes, set the stage for the band’s future success. The album’s raw energy, innovative musicianship, and compelling lyrics make it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners today.
John Berkovich Talks 