Vinylsessions Present - Leonard Cohen

Leonard Cohen’s work has been on our agenda for some years and really trying to decide an album that would appeal to both hardcore fans and those who are not particularly acquainted with the artist has been tricky. Ironically Colin whilst browsing the great selection of vinyl at Baldb1tchbeats records in Saltburn this summer bagged tonight’s copy – so here we go!

What makes this journey so interesting is Cohen initially pursued a career as a poet and novelist during the 1950s and early 1960s and did not begin a music career until 1966.

Disappointed with his lack of success as a writer, Cohen moved to the United States to pursue a career as a folk music singer–songwriter. During the 1960s, he was a fringe figure in Andy Warhol’s “Factory" crowd. Warhol speculated that Cohen had spent time listening to the German singer Nico in clubs and that this had influenced his musical style.

His themes commonly explored throughout his work include faith and mortality, isolation and depression, betrayal and redemption, social and political conflict, sexual and romantic love, desire, regret, and loss.

Judy Collins ( who also sung Suzanne) introduced Cohen to her established TV audience in 1966, this along with performing at festivals brought the attention of Columbia Records. In 1970, Cohen toured for the first time, in the United States, Canada, and Europe, and appeared at the Isle of Wight festival then In 1972 he toured again in Europe and Israel.

Our team musical expert Graham Chalmers will give a profile and introduction followed by playback of the album in full, with an interval between sides.

Vintage Hi-Fi fans will be delighted with our amazing audio menu for the evening – Sony’s powerful flagship STR6200F from 1973 driving age related RAM200 Monitor speakers, turntable not decided – depends on how courageous I feel on the night!

The fun starts at 7.30pm, our usual raffle and every penny raised goes to Harrogate Healthcare Community Charity for our SCBU relative’s project. Tickets are £7 (+ Eventbrite booking & card fee) or you can pay at the door but please email us at [email protected] to reserve your place. This one will book up quickly!

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Host or Publisher Vinyl Sessions Team & Friends of Harrogate Hospital