10 Best Rock Album Closers Ever
Going out with a bang.
The final track on an album might just be the most important one of all. It has the difficult task of attempting to provide a fitting conclusion to the statement that the artist is trying to convey with the album as a whole.
When listened to in its original order, the final track will (obviously) be the last thing a listener will hear, often making it the most memorable song of the entire album.
Whilst the majority of rock albums end on their loudest and most energetic songs in an attempt to deliver an explosive "finale" to what went before, others may conclude with a softer, quieter track that allows the album to fizzle out gently.
Whatever dynamic an album ends on, some of the best rock finales achieve their purpose with amazing results, providing a necessary catharsis or climax to end on a satisfying note.
Not only do the following songs stand as fantastic tracks within their own right, but they work even better when heard on the tail-end of a great rock album.
10. You Can't Always Get What You Want - Let It Bleed
1969's Let It Bleed was released during a tumultuous time in The Rolling Stones' career. Founding member Brian Jones was in the midst of drug addiction, and proved to be unreliable during the recording of the album.
Sadly, this would be the last Rolling Stones record he would appear on, as he died less than a month after being fired. This turbulence is reflected in the lyrics, as they can be interpreted as not only a comment on the band's state of affairs, but the political landscape of the decade as a whole.
Almost in spite of the lyrics, the music itself is joyous, upbeat and positive. This feeling is accentuated by the instrumental work of Keith Richards and Bill Wyman, guest pianist Al Kooper, gospel-style backing vocals, and a full choral accompaniment.
With a seven minute run-time, the song is often compared to The Beatles' "Hey Jude", but whereas that song is pure and unfiltered joy, this song is laced with a bittersweet undercurrent alongside the happier elements. "You Can't Always Get What You Want" is The Rolling Stones' love letter to the 1960s, the decade that launched the band to international recognition.