Song of the Day: "New York Mining Disaster 1941"

ARTIST: Bee Gees
TITLE: "New York Mining Disaster 1941"
YEAR: 1967

A paper for a class I'm taking brought this song to mind. Actually writing about Bee Gees' "New York Mining Disaster 1941" makes one realize just how much it says in so few words. I already really liked the song (great atmosphere and harmonies, lyrics and instrumentation that work well together), but I think, just this once, homework actually deepened my appreciation of the song. I'm not sure how many times I'll admit to something like that.

To hear this song, click here. The song can be bought on many Bee Gees and 60s compilations, but I don't know well enough which to recommend at this time.

The 60s Collection (Bee Gees)

Very much a purchase on a whim is the Bee Gees disc The 60s Collection, which represents a smattering of their early works before they achieved international success. The best known of these tracks is likely "Spicks and Specks," and it's one of my favorites on this disc. Other highlights include "Claustrophobia" and "Follow the Wind." It's also interesting to hear the Brothers Gibb do some remakes ("Turn Around, Look at Me" and "Every Day I Have to Cry Some") as they stuck to their own material upon making it big. For those interested in this material, the most complete collection appears to be the Brilliant from Birth set; however, for those looking for a sampling of the pre-fame Bee Gees for a lowish price, this set does well.

Tracks:
1. Big Chance
2. The Three Kisses of Love
3. Spicks and Specks
4. Second Hand People
5. How Many Birds
6. Could It Be
7. Claustrophobia
8. The Battle of the Blue and Grey
9. Every Day I Have to Cry Some
10. Turn Around, Look at Me
11. Glass House
12. I Am the World
13. Follow the Wind
14. You Wouldn't Know
15. Monday's Rain
16. Wine and Women