Album Review: Poetry Out Loud Number 1 by The Harlemans (1969)
If you’re into something that straddles the line between art and sound experimentation, Poetry Out Loud Number 1 might just be your jam. Released in 1969 under Out Loud Records, this quirky gem from Peter and Patricia Klyd Watkins, Linda Watkins, and Klyd and Linda Watkins dives deep into the world of Sound Poetry—a genre not for everyone but absolutely magnetic if you're open to it. Hailing from the USA and Canada, this album feels like a time capsule of raw creativity, with Patricia’s artwork adding an extra layer of charm to its vibe.
The album kicks off with "Down By The River," which isn’t about Neil Young or some serene nature scene—it’s more like a fever dream of words tumbling over each other. It’s chaotic yet oddly soothing, as though someone took a poem and decided to stretch it out until it became music. You can almost picture the performers huddled around a mic, letting their voices twist and turn like vines on a fence. There’s no melody per se, but the rhythm of speech pulls you in. It sticks with me because it’s unpredictable—you never know where the next phrase will take you.
Another standout track is “Snow Horse.” This one feels quieter, almost meditative. The repetition of certain phrases creates this trance-like effect, like watching snowflakes fall one after another. At times, it borders on hypnotic, making it perfect for those late-night moments when you need something calming but still thought-provoking. What makes it memorable is how simple it is—it doesn’t try too hard, and that’s its strength.
Other tracks like “Mission Is A Narrow Line” and “Portland Grandmother” offer similarly intriguing wordplay, though they lean more abstract. Some listeners may find themselves scratching their heads, wondering what exactly they’re supposed to feel. But maybe that’s the point—this album resists easy interpretation. It invites you to sit with its weirdness and make sense of it yourself.
One thing I gotta say—it’s wild to think this came out in 1969. While the rest of the world was grooving to Woodstock vibes, these folks were busy crafting something completely different. And honestly? That takes guts.
Reflecting on Poetry Out Loud Number 1, I’m reminded of how much room there is in music for expression beyond traditional structures. Sure, it won’t appeal to everyone, but for those willing to dive in, it’s a treasure trove of sonic oddities. Plus, let’s be real—if nothing else, it’s a great conversation starter at parties. Ever heard a horse made of snow speak? Now you have.
