Album Information Section

Album Title: Twelve

Artist: Patti Smith

Original Release Date: April 13, 2007

Label: Unknown Label

Genres: Rock, Cover Album

Track Listing

• 1. Are You Experienced? (4:46)
• 2. Everybody Wants to Rule the World (4:07)
• 3. Helpless (4:03)
• 4. Gimme Shelter (5:01)
• 5. Within You Without You (4:51)
• 6. White Rabbit (3:55)
• 7. Changing of the Guards (5:48)
• 8. The Boy in the Bubble (4:31)
• 9. Soul Kitchen (3:46)
• 10. Smells Like Teen Spirit (6:32)
• 11. Midnight Rider (4:03)
• 12. Pastime Paradise (5:27)

Recording Information

The album “Twelve” by Patti Smith was recorded at the Electric Lady Studios, located in New York City, a landmark studio founded by Jimi Hendrix in the 1970s. The recording sessions took place throughout 2006, a year marked by Smith’s continued evolution as an artist and her exploration of classic rock anthems. The album was produced by Patti Smith herself alongside her longtime collaborator, Tony Shanahan, who also served as an engineer on the project.

Twelve is notable for its raw and emotive production style, integrating both live instrumentation and studio effects to create a rich sonic tapestry. The recording process was characterized by Smith’s dynamic vocal delivery, which captures the essence and spirit of the original songs while infusing them with her unique interpretative lens. There were intriguing production anecdotes, including Smith’s decision to include tracks that resonated deeply with her personal experiences, reflecting her artistic journey and the socio-political themes of the era.

Band Context

At the time of “Twelve,” Patti Smith was experiencing a renaissance in her career following the release of her 2004 album “Trampin’.” This resurgence was attributed to her continued relevance in both the music industry and contemporary cultural discussions, particularly surrounding themes of love, loss, and activism. Smith was joined in the studio by her band members, including Lenny Kaye on guitar, Jay Dee Daugherty on drums, and Tony Shanahan on bass and keyboards, forming a cohesive unit that was pivotal in translating her vision into reality.

Before “Twelve,” Smith had engaged in various artistic projects, including poetry readings and visual arts, which contributed to her multifaceted persona. The album presented a significant moment, showcasing her ability to reinterpret classic rock songs, a departure from her original compositions, and additionally reflecting her respect for the music that inspired her journey as an artist. This period also saw her actively involved in political and social issues, which influenced her choice of covers, making “Twelve” not just a collection of songs but a statement of her artistic and personal beliefs.

Track Commentary

The album consists of twelve tracks, each a reinterpretation of songs that span various genres and decades. The opening track, “Are You Experienced?” originally by The Jimi Hendrix Experience, sets a psychedelic tone that Smith navigates with her signature poetic flair. “Everybody Wants to Rule the World,” a hit by Tears for Fears, is given a haunting reinterpretation that highlights the existential themes of the original, while “Gimme Shelter,” a classic by The Rolling Stones, showcases Smith’s powerful vocal delivery and emotional depth.

Throughout the album, Smith explores different musical styles, from the ethereal “Within You Without You” by The Beatles to the gritty “Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana, encapsulating a wide array of influences that have shaped her artistry. The track “White Rabbit” stands out as a psychedelic anthem that resonates with Smith’s own explorations of consciousness and identity, while “Changing of the Guards” by Bob Dylan reflects her admiration for lyrical storytelling.

Critical reception to “Twelve” was generally positive, with many reviewers praising Smith’s ability to breathe new life into well-known tracks. Standout songs, such as “Helpless” and “Midnight Rider,” not only showcase her vocal prowess but also solidify her legacy as a transformative artist who honors the past while forging her own path. The album serves as a testament to Smith’s enduring relevance and artistry, cementing her status as a powerful voice in rock music and beyond.