Phil Ochs – Pleasures of the Harbor VG/G+

“Pleasures of the Harbor,” released on October 31, 1967, is a pivotal album by American singer-songwriter Phil Ochs, a figure prominently associated with the 1960s folk music scene. This album marked a significant departure from Ochs’ earlier, more traditionally folk-oriented works, showcasing a more complex and orchestral approach to songwriting and arrangement.

In “Pleasures of the Harbor,” Ochs’ lyrics remain as socially poignant and introspective as in his earlier protest songs, but they are now embedded in a richer tapestry of sound. The album blends elements of baroque pop and folk, employing a wide range of instruments beyond the acoustic guitar that was his staple in previous records. This orchestration added depth and a certain theatrical quality to his music, reflecting the influence of contemporary pop and folk-rock trends.