Appearing just a few months after the somewhat unsuccessful release of Lou Reed’s fairly underground first album and rocketing straight into the charts, this production had two British guardian angels to help it on its way, namely David Bowie and Mick Ronson, both of whom obviously knew how to steer Reed’s songwriting qualities into safe waters, without watering down his biting sarcasm and humorous provocation. And that’s why grating guitar rock ('Vicious') is found alongside a bittersweet, tender ballad ('Perfect Day') and even an old-time jazz parody ('Goodnight Ladies') which is sung with a tongue as heavy as lead. Why then compare this highly original music mix with others, when it’s so much easier to hear this record for what it is - a truly cult album?
1. Vicious
2. Andy's Chest
3. Perfect Day
4. Hangin' Round
5. Walk on the Wild Side
6. Make Up
7. Satellite of Love
8. Wagon Wheel
9. New York Telephone Conversation
10. I'm So Free
11. Goodnight Ladies