Cat Stevens' 'Buddha and the Chocolate Box' Returns to CD, LP, Digital Formats
The legendary singer-songwriter Cat Stevens, now known as Yusuf, is bringing back one of his most beloved albums, 'Buddha and the Chocolate Box', for a remastered reissue. Originally released in 1974, this album marks a significant return to form for Stevens, who had previously retreated to Jamaica to self-produce his R&B-influenced album 'Foreigner'.
This album is a testament to Stevens' artistic evolution and his ability to reconnect with his roots. He collaborated with old colleagues Paul Samwell-Smith and Alun Davies, who produced and played acoustic guitar, respectively, to capture the essence of their earlier work. The album's sound is a beautiful blend of Stevens' signature style and the influences he picked up during his time in Jamaica.
The songs on 'Buddha and the Chocolate Box' reflect Stevens' thoughts on both the material and spiritual worlds, creating a deeply personal and introspective album. The title track, 'Buddha and the Chocolate Box', is a powerful statement on finding balance and peace in life, while the single 'Oh Very Young' became a chart-topping hit, reaching the top 10 on the Pop and AC charts. The album itself spent three weeks at No. 2 on the Billboard 200, just behind Marvin Hamlisch's 'The Sting' soundtrack.
In his memoir, 'On the Road to Findout', Stevens reflects on the impact of this album, stating, 'Buddha and the Chocolate Box reopened the doors of my familiar melodious soft delivery and sentiments. It was an experimental album in terms of composition, but it was what my fans desperately wanted to hear.' The album's success proved that Stevens had not lost his touch and that his fans were eager for his return to the 'Cat Stevens' form.
The remastered reissue of 'Buddha and the Chocolate Box' will be available in various formats, including CD, 180-gram black vinyl, and high-res and standard digital formats. An exclusive 'chocolate brown' vinyl pressing is also available for pre-orders, offering fans a unique and collectible edition. The album's original artwork has been refreshed, adding a modern touch to the classic cover.
This reissue is a testament to the enduring legacy of Cat Stevens and his music. It allows fans to revisit a beloved album and discover or rediscover the depth and beauty of Stevens' songwriting. With its remastered sound and new formats, 'Buddha and the Chocolate Box' is sure to appeal to both long-time fans and new listeners alike, offering a timeless listening experience that resonates with audiences today.
