On this day February 23 1982 The Blue Mask the eleventh solo album by Lou Reed was released. Considered one of his strongest works the album marked a return to his raw poetic style and explored themes of love violence addiction and personal demons.
The Blue Mask was Reed’s first album after marrying Sylvia Morales and signing with RCA Records again. It also marked the beginning of his collaboration with guitarist Robert Quine whose aggressive yet intricate playing helped define the album’s sound. The record featured a stripped down approach with just two guitars bass and drums creating an intense and intimate feel that matched Reed’s deeply personal lyrics.
Standout tracks include Waves of Fear a song filled with anxiety and paranoia The Gun which explores themes of violence and power and The Blue Mask a chaotic and visceral track that captures the intensity of the entire album. The record was widely praised for its honesty and raw emotion making it a defining moment in Reed’s career.
Fun fact: Robert Quine’s guitar work on The Blue Mask was so intense that even Lou Reed himself was shocked at times by its ferocity leading to some of the album’s most memorable moments.
Trivia question: Before launching his solo career Lou Reed was the frontman of a legendary rock band that influenced generations of musicians. Can you name the band he co founded?
The Blue Mask was Reed’s first album after marrying Sylvia Morales and signing with RCA Records again. It also marked the beginning of his collaboration with guitarist Robert Quine whose aggressive yet intricate playing helped define the album’s sound. The record featured a stripped down approach with just two guitars bass and drums creating an intense and intimate feel that matched Reed’s deeply personal lyrics.
Standout tracks include Waves of Fear a song filled with anxiety and paranoia The Gun which explores themes of violence and power and The Blue Mask a chaotic and visceral track that captures the intensity of the entire album. The record was widely praised for its honesty and raw emotion making it a defining moment in Reed’s career.
Fun fact: Robert Quine’s guitar work on The Blue Mask was so intense that even Lou Reed himself was shocked at times by its ferocity leading to some of the album’s most memorable moments.
Trivia question: Before launching his solo career Lou Reed was the frontman of a legendary rock band that influenced generations of musicians. Can you name the band he co founded?
