It was a strange twist of fate, but the relevance of The Velvet Underground increased exponentially in the ‘90s, especially when Václav Havel became president of Czechoslovakia.

With no sense of irony, Havel stated that the “Velvet Underground played a rather significant role in the development of our country.” It became even more strange when Lou Reed was asked to interview Havel. Reed was a terrible interviewer, but the experience itself proved to be yet another remarkable incident in his life. This, and the death of close friends, put him in an extraordinarily serious frame of mind for his next album.

“Magic and Loss” could serve as a study in Existentialism, probing deep observations to find a true purpose to life. It’s a ‘no holds barred’ study that can evoke both shudders and tears. Coming on the heels of “Songs for Drella”, it represents what perhaps may be the creative highlight of Reed’s solo career.

FEATURED TRACKS INCLUDE:

Spinning Away – John Cale and Brian Eno

The River – John Cale and Brian Eno

That’s B.A.D. – Moe Tucker

Lazy – Moe Tucker

Wedding Anniversary – John Cale

Hallelujah – John Cale

What’s Good? – Lou Reed

Sword of Damocles – Lou Reed

Cremation – Lou Reed

Gassed and Stoked – Lou Reed