“Aftermath,” released in 1966, stands as a landmark album for The Rolling Stones, marking a pivotal point in their career and rock music history. This record is significant for many reasons, not least because it was the first Stones album to feature entirely original material, all penned by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards. This shift from covers to original compositions demonstrated the band’s evolution from a blues and R&B cover band into a formidable songwriting force.
One of the defining characteristics of “Aftermath” is its eclecticism. The album spans a variety of musical styles, showcasing the Stones’ ability to innovate and experiment. Brian Jones’ instrumental contributions are particularly noteworthy, adding depth and variety to the album’s sound. Jones played a range of instruments, including the sitar on “Paint It Black,” the dulcimer on “Lady Jane,” and the marimba on “Under My Thumb,” each adding a unique texture to the tracks.
“Paint It Black” is arguably one of the most famous songs from “Aftermath” and is often cited as a highlight of the album. The song’s dark, brooding lyrics and the sitar’s haunting melody create a sense of despair and longing. This track exemplifies the band’s willingness to incorporate non-Western musical elements into their work, a trend that would become more pronounced in later albums.
“Under My Thumb” is another standout track, featuring a catchy marimba riff and Jagger’s assertive vocals. The song’s lyrics, which describe a man exerting control over a woman, have sparked controversy and debate over the years. However, the track remains a compelling example of the Stones’ ability to craft memorable melodies and hooks.
“Lady Jane” is a beautiful, baroque-inspired ballad that showcases the band’s softer side. With its delicate dulcimer and harpsichord arrangement, the song is a departure from the more aggressive tracks on the album. Jagger’s vocal delivery is tender and restrained, adding to the song’s elegance and charm. Why they haven’t played this live more often is beyond me.
While controversial, “Stupid Girl” exhibits the Stones’ knack for writing provocative and thought-provoking lyrics. The biting sarcasm illustrates the band’s willingness to push the boundaries of what was considered acceptable in pop music at the time.
The album also includes more introspective and reflective tracks like “I Am Waiting” and “Out of Time.” “I Am Waiting” features melancholy lyrics and a gentle, folky arrangement, while “Out of Time” has a more upbeat, Motown-inspired sound. Both songs highlight the band’s versatility and their ability to convey a range of emotions through their music.
“Aftermath” is not without its flaws, however. Some critics have pointed out that the album’s length—over 50 minutes—results in a few filler tracks that do not quite measure up to the album’s strongest moments. While enjoyable, songs like “It’s Not Easy” and “High and Dry” lack the impact of the album’s more memorable tracks.
Despite these minor shortcomings, “Aftermath” remains a seminal album in the Rolling Stones’ discography. It represents a crucial step in the band’s artistic development, showcasing their growth as songwriters and musicians. The album’s diverse range of styles and experimental approach laid the groundwork for future Stones albums and helped solidify their reputation as one of the most influential rock bands ever.
“Aftermath” also holds historical significance. The album was released during the “Swinging Sixties” era, a time of cultural and social upheaval, and its themes of rebellion, power dynamics, and introspection resonated with 1960s youth. The Stones’ willingness to address controversial topics and push the boundaries of popular music mirrored the broader societal shifts occurring during this period.
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