Scott Walker – Scott 2 (1968)

This is the second of Scott Walker's solo albums (as the name implies) and one which I own as part of a Classic Albums 5 CD set.

As on the previous album, Scott, this collection contains a mixture of covers, interpretations and a couple of original songs. While Walker's voice is so lovely that it would be worthwhile listening to him singing a shopping list in monotone, some of these songs have much more impact than others, the weakest being only memorable for Walker's delivery.

We're on safe ground with the Jacques Brel songs, as translated by Mort Shuman, Jackie, the dark Next and The Girls And The Dogs, both exciting and risque in delivery, and the Bacherach/David cover, Windows Of The World is really nice. Of Walker's own songs, Plastic Palace People is far and away the highlight of the album, interlocking themes and soaring strings, while The Amorous Humphrey Plugg is likeable without over-impressing, and The Bridge fairly forgettable.

Most of the rest seems to pass by without making much impression.

Subsequent albums would be largely self-penned or Brel interpretations, Walker leaving behind the soft ballads which the record company wanted him to provide. Arguably, this album is the low point of the four numbered albums, but there's still plenty to enjoy.

Link to album tracks

3* - a decent enough listen, but you feel Scott aching to leave some of the more anodyne songs behind.