Was Oasis’ Be Here Now Album Really a Failure in 1997?

Often, the seeds of legend for what many deem to be a truly terrible album are sown in the mists of time, where it often hides. Is Oasis' Be Here Now one of those legendary music failures? Let's delve into the truth behind this oft-cited albums' commercial and critical performance in 1997.

The Album's Success

Far from being a flop, Be Here Now is, in fact, a testament to the power of the music industry's interconnectedness. The album debuted atop the album charts in fifteen countries, making it one of the most successful international debuts ever. In the United Kingdom, the album reached number one and became the fastest-selling album in the country's history. With shipping nearly one and a half million copies solely in the UK, and nearly eight million worldwide, it's clear that the actual numbers tell a different story from the rumour mill.

Initial Critical Reception

Initial reviews from critics held the album in high regard. The launch of Be Here Now was a monumental event when Oasis was already one of the biggest acts in the UK and Europe. Numerous accolades followed, with the album being praised by none other than the Q magazine. Keith Cameron of Q went as far to suggest that Be Here Now was the album that contributed to the decline of the Britpop era, which is an interesting point to ponder.

The Controversial Element: Production and Overindulgence

The album's enduring notoriety lies partly in its production and overindulgent nature. Critics argue that its 71-minute runtime and grandiose, overproduced sound made it difficult to engage with for listeners. The story of the submerged Rolls-Royce on the album cover, a reference to the Who's Keith Moon driving a car into a swimming pool, adds an element of absurdity to the narrative. The interesting twist is that the date on the calendar, varying by country, seems to indicate the album was intended for different release times in different places.

During the recording process, according to some reports, copious amounts of cocaine were consumed. The resultant overproduced, overlong, and possibly overconfident album is a clear reflection of the creative choices made by the band during this time.

Retrospective Analysis

While the album met with critical acclaim initially, a more holistic look at Be Here Now reveals its decline in the years following its release. Music critics, including Laura Snapes of Pitchfork, have labeled it as a flawed record that showcased the band's first major misstep. Noel Gallagher, the lead singer of the band, himself expressed dissatisfaction with the album, suggesting it was an overblown effort.

Personal Opinion

Despite the critical backlash, personal opinion, especially of long-time fans, varies. For many, the album remains a cherished part of the rock and soul of the 90s, even if it hasn't aged particularly well over the years. The truth is often far more nuanced than the legend it becomes in popular narrative.

Be Here Now remains a pivotal piece in Oasis's discography, marked more by its commercial and critical highs than by any indelible low. It stands as a testament to the magical and unpredictable journey that albums often take in the intense world of music and the market.