Neil Diamond – Beautiful Noise (1976)

It’s a beautiful noise, made of joy and of strife, like a symphony played by the passing parade—it’s the music of life.

Neil Diamond, always a masterful storyteller, presents a collection of songs that beautifully capture city life and human emotions. With production by Robbie Robertson of The Band, this album gained a unique dynamism that enhanced Diamond’s style in a new way.

It starts powerfully with Beautiful Noise, a vibrant ode to the sounds of the city—the music that surrounds you, from whistling passersby to the hum of traffic. Stargazer has a dreamy quality, while Lady-Oh is one of Diamond’s most emotionally charged ballads, showcasing his voice in a deeply sincere and vulnerable way.

Don’t Think… Feel radiates pure zest for life, an invitation to live in the moment, while Surviving the Life reflects on the challenges of existence. If You Know What I Mean is nostalgic and introspective, growing into one of the album’s biggest hits.

The second half takes us further through the sounds of life: Street Life paints the raw reality of urban existence, while Home Is a Wounded Heart carries a quiet beauty that touches the soul. Jungletime brings a playful energy, Signs holds a deeper message, and Dry Your Eyes, co-written with Robbie Robertson, closes the album on a powerful and moving note. This last song even found its place in The Band’s legendary farewell concert, The Last Waltz, proving the timeless quality of Diamond’s music.

What makes Beautiful Noise so special is its blend of lively arrangements and emotional depth. The album became a commercial success and demonstrated how Neil Diamond continued to evolve as an artist. For anyone who loves his unique style and storytelling power, Beautiful Noise is an essential album that celebrates the beauty of music and life.

Tracklist

A1 Beautiful Noise
A2 Stargazer
A3 Lady-Oh
A4 Don’t Think… Feel
A5 Surviving The Life
A6 If You Know What I Mean
B1 Street Life
B2 Home Is A Wounded Heart
B3 Jungletime
B4 Signs
B5 Dry Your Eyes

Vinyl Specs

Streaming

Links

https://www.discogs.com/release/8883131-Neil-Diamond-Beautiful-Noise

https://www.waxlog.com/collection/cave/artist-n/release/1831232904/neil-diamond-beautiful-noise