Album Review: New Horizons in Chemotherapy by Various
Released in 1959 under Eaton Laboratories, New Horizons in Chemotherapy is not your typical music album. Nope, it’s something entirely different—an auditory deep dive into veterinary science and health-fitness topics. While the genre is technically labeled as “Non-Music,” don’t let that fool you; this collection of speeches delivers an oddly fascinating experience for anyone curious about mid-20th-century medical advancements—or just someone who enjoys niche oddities.
The album’s standout tracks are "Bovine Genital Infections: Results Of A Three-Year Study" by R. Frank Vigue, D.V.M., and "Causes And Treatment Of Canine Enteritis, With Particular Reference To Coccidosis." Both tracks stick with you—not because they’re catchy tunes but because their content feels like stepping into a time capsule of veterinary wisdom.
Dr. Vigue’s talk on bovine genital infections might sound dry at first glance (and honestly, it kind of is), but there’s something oddly compelling about hearing him break down years of meticulous research into digestible bits. It’s like listening to a farmer-scientist hybrid explain how cows can live better lives. You find yourself thinking, “Wow, people really cared about cow health back then!”
Meanwhile, the track on canine enteritis hits harder if you’ve ever owned a dog. The speaker dives headfirst into coccidiosis—a parasitic disease affecting pups—and lays out treatment options with clarity. Sure, it’s not exactly dinner table conversation material, but it’s hard not to appreciate the passion behind the delivery. There’s a sense of urgency here, like the speaker genuinely wants listeners to walk away knowing more so they can help their furry friends.
What makes this album memorable isn’t its polish or production value—it’s raw, unfiltered knowledge shared without pretense. These aren’t rock stars or pop icons; these are professionals speaking directly to other pros, trying to push veterinary medicine forward one lecture at a time.
Reflecting on New Horizons in Chemotherapy, I’m struck by how much has changed since 1959. Today, we take antibiotics and modern treatments for granted, yet albums like this remind us where it all began. Who knew a bunch of old-school science talks could feel so…human?
Oh, and here’s the kicker: if you play this album loud enough, your cat will definitely give you side-eye. Trust me, I tried.
