LPCDreissues: Looking forward to the past

• Townes Van Zandt’s 1968 debut — the iconic first album from the revered songwriter
• Analogue Remastered from the original tapes for rich, authentic sound
• Limited Edition Orange Marbled Vinyl — collectible and visually stunning
• Original vintage Poppy Records labels — a faithful nod to the first pressing
• Cover art by Milton Glaser, legendary designer of the classic 1967 Bob Dylan poster
• Features timeless classics: “Waitin' Around to Die”, “I'll Be Here in the Morning”, “For the Sake of the Song”
• Produced by Jack Clement (Sun Records) and recorded at Bradley’s Barn, Nashville
• A must-have for fans of Americana, folk, and outlaw country

For the Sake of the Song marked the start of Townes Van Zandt’s influential career, introducing listeners to his piercing songwriting and unmistakable voice. The album includes early standouts like the stark “Waitin’ Around to Die,” the reflective “I’ll Be There in the Morning,” and the evocative title track—clear evidence, from the outset, of Van Zandt’s rare ability to translate deep feeling into enduring melody, a gift that would win him lasting devotion and critical praise.

Produced by the legendary Jack Clement—celebrated for his work with artists such as Charley Pride and Chet Atkins—and engineered by Jim Malloy at Bradley’s Barn in Mount Juliet, Tennessee, the record also signaled a striking turn in Van Zandt’s sound. Clement’s sweeping production, featuring touches like organ and harpsichord, gave the songs a rich, expansive backdrop that contrasted sharply with Townes’ raw acoustic intimacy. Though contentious on release, the approach is now widely viewed as a defining feature of his landmark debut.

The album’s iconic cover art, created by Milton Glaser (best known for the 1967 Bob Dylan poster and The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test), is faithfully brought back for this reissue, finished with a deluxe high-gloss laminate that brings out the full detail of the original design.

More than a celebration of Van Zandt’s enduring legacy, this reissue invites longtime fans and first-time listeners to hear his debut as it was intended. With analogue remastering, vintage label replication, and distinctive vinyl colouring, it’s an essential edition for collectors and music lovers alike.

Track Listing:

SIDE A
• For The Sake Of The Song
• Tecumseh Valley
• Many A Fine Lady
• Quicksilver Daydreams Of Maria
• Waitin' Around To Die
SIDE B
• I’ll Be Here In The Morning
• Sad Cinderella
• The Velvet Voices
• All Your Young Servants
• Talkin’ Karate Blues
• Sixteen Summers, Fifteen Falls