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Rating: The oriental-inspired cover that celebrates the album perfectly depicts Hendrix's mindset and mood at the end of 1967, the period in which he likely began consuming large quantities of acid and various drugs more frequently. But acid or not, what Jimi was seeking in those days was an escape from what was happening around him, the new rock star, with simple yet profound music, rich with countless tones.
The studio work increased to find the right balance, so the production is more refined compared to the previous album. Moreover, Jimi's guitar sets off to discover infinite sounds and techniques, providing a variety of truly unique timbres. With the exception of the aggressive Little Miss Lover and If Six Was Nine, the sound is a much calmer rhythm and blues compared to the exuberant psychedelia of the debut, but not of lower quality because of it. Songs like Spanish Castle Magic, Wait Until Tomorrow, Up from The Skies, Bold As Love are absolute gems in the history of rock. Little Wing, aside from being a masterpiece (and among my favorites ever), is a song that speaks directly to the listener and, if understood, almost conveys sensations of enchantment and rapture. The traditional rhythmic order is altered; after the introduction, the guitar phrases and embellishes the filtered voice, culminating in the solemn and simultaneously timid solo.
Castles Made Of Sand is another beautiful song, here one can understand the influence Bob Dylan had on the genius, especially concerning the song's lyrics.
In conclusion, Axis: Bold As Love, though composed just a few months after the debut album, focuses less on experimentation, it is certainly the least innovative of the Experience albums, but it is the most cohesive and absolutely among the most beautiful albums ever. A must-have.
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