About the song
If you’re a fan of classic rock and roll with a psychedelic twist, then Cream’s “Deserted Cities of the Heart” is a track that you’ll undoubtedly appreciate. Released in 1968 as part of their album “Wheels of Fire,” this song is a testament to the band’s innovative and experimental approach to music.
From the outset, “Deserted Cities of the Heart” paints a vivid picture of a desolate, urban landscape. The lyrics, penned by bassist and singer Jack Bruce, evoke a sense of loneliness and isolation. The imagery of deserted cities and empty streets perfectly captures the mood of the song, which explores themes of alienation and the search for meaning.
The song’s arrangement is a masterclass in psychedelic rock. The driving rhythm section, featuring Ginger Baker on drums, provides a solid foundation for Eric Clapton’s soaring guitar solos. Clapton’s playing is both technically impressive and emotionally resonant, as he weaves intricate melodies and improvisations throughout the track. Bruce’s deep, soulful vocals add a layer of intensity, perfectly complementing the music.
One of the most striking aspects of “Deserted Cities of the Heart” is its dynamic structure. The song shifts seamlessly between moments of quiet introspection and explosive bursts of energy. This constant ebb and flow keeps the listener engaged and creates a sense of tension and release. The extended instrumental breaks allow each member of the band to showcase their individual talents and contribute to the overall sonic tapestry.
The song’s lyrics delve into themes of urban decay, loneliness, and the search for connection. Bruce’s poetic imagery and introspective musings create a sense of depth and complexity that goes beyond the surface level of a typical rock song. The song’s title itself is evocative, suggesting a world that is both physically and emotionally barren.
Cream was one of the most influential bands of the 1960s, and “Deserted Cities of the Heart” is a prime example of their groundbreaking work. The band’s ability to seamlessly blend elements of blues, rock, and jazz created a unique and instantly recognizable sound. Their innovative approach to songwriting and improvisation helped to shape the course of rock music for generations to come.
In conclusion, “Deserted Cities of the Heart” is a powerful and evocative piece of music that continues to resonate with listeners today. Cream’s masterful musicianship, combined with Bruce’s introspective lyrics, creates a timeless classic that is both emotionally resonant and intellectually stimulating. If you’re a fan of psychedelic rock or simply appreciate great music, then this is a song that you must hear.
Key points emphasized in this introduction:
- Psychedelic rock: Highlights the song’s genre and experimental nature.
- Desolate urban landscape: Focuses on the song’s imagery and themes.
- Masterful musicianship: Praises the individual talents of the band members.
- Dynamic structure: Discusses the song’s shifting moods and energy.
- Introspective lyrics: Emphasizes the depth and complexity of the lyrics.
- Cream’s influence: Connects the song to the band’s overall legacy.
Video
Lyrics
Upon this street where time has died.
The golden treat you never tried.
In times of old, in days gone by.
If I could catch your dancing eye.
It was on the way,
On the road to dreams, yeah.
Now my heart’s drowned in no love streams, yeah.
The street is cold, its trees are gone.
The story’s told the dark has won.
Once we set sail to catch a star.
We had to fail, it was too far.
It was on the way,
On the road to dreams, yeah.
Now my heart’s drowned in no love streams, yeah.
I felt the wind shout like a drum.
You said, “My friend, love’s end has come.”
It couldn’t last, had to stop.
You drained it all to the last drop.
It was on the way,
On the road to dreams, yeah.
Now my heart’s drowned in no love streams, yeah.
Now my heart’s drowned in no love streams, yeah.
On this dark street the sun is black.
The winter life is coming back.
On this dark street it’s cold inside.
There’s no retreat from time that’s died.
It was on the way,
On the road to dreams.
Now my heart’s drowned in no love streams, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah.
Now my heart’s drowned in no love streams, yeah.
Now my heart’s drowned in no love.