The Kinks – Something Else by The Kinks (1967)

Something Else by The Kinks is the fifth proper studio album by The Kinks, released in 1967 on Pye (UK) and Reprise (US). Recorded during the band’s four-year exile from stateside touring, the album reflects a more idiosyncratically English sensibility than prior efforts.

The album covers a range of styles, including harpsichord-laden narratives (“Two Sisters”), piano-thumping jaunts (“Afternoon Tea,” “Tin Solider Man”), seaside lullabies (“No Return”) and lavish, crooning balladry (“Lazy Old Sun,” “End of the Season”).

Lyrically, Ray sharpens his social observations with the model-classmate salute “David Watts” and the berated-chump lament “Situation Vacant.” Meanwhile, brother Dave tempers his prior aggression with the summery joys of “Love Me Till the Sun Shines” and the ragtag comedy/tragedy “Death of a Clown,” which features a lithe yet haunting wordless refrain from sister-in-law Rasa.

Tracklist:
A1. David Watts
A2. Death of a Clown
A3. Two Sisters
A4. No Return
A5. Harry Rag
A6. Tin Soldier Man
A7. Situation Vacant
B1. Love Me Till the Sun Shines
B2. Lazy Old Sun
B3. Afternoon Tea
B4. Funny Face
B5. End of the Season
B6. Waterloo Sunset

Credits:
Ray Davies – vocals, guitar, organ, piano, production
Dave Davies – guitar, vocals
Pete Quaife – bass, harmonies
Mick Avory – drums, percussion

Nicky Hopkins – piano, harpsichord, organ
Rasa Davies – harmonies
Ken Jones – bongos