About the song
The Small Faces – Itchykoo Park: A Psychedelic Journey
When one thinks of 1960s British Invasion bands, names like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones often come to mind. However, there was another group that was making waves on the London music scene with their unique blend of R&B, pop, and psychedelic rock: The Small Faces. And among their most celebrated tracks is the mind-bending, infectious “Itchykoo Park”.
Released in 1967, during the height of the psychedelic era, “Itchykoo Park” is more than just a song; it’s a sonic journey. The track opens with a hypnotic, repetitive guitar riff that immediately draws the listener in. This simple yet effective motif sets the stage for the song’s psychedelic exploration. The lyrics, while somewhat nonsensical at first glance, paint vivid images of a surreal, dreamlike landscape. Phrases like “Itchykoo Park, or zoo or such” and “skying high into the sky” transport the listener to a world of boundless imagination.
One of the most striking aspects of “Itchykoo Park” is its vocal harmonies. The Small Faces were renowned for their tight vocal arrangements, and this is on full display here. The harmonies are rich and layered, adding a sense of depth and complexity to the song. The interplay between the lead vocals and the backing harmonies creates a wall of sound that is both powerful and beautiful.
The song’s psychedelic elements are further enhanced by the use of various effects, such as phasing and flanging. These effects give the music a swirling, ethereal quality that perfectly complements the song’s trippy lyrics. The drumming, too, is noteworthy, with its driving beat and occasional bursts of energy.
“Itchykoo Park” is a testament to The Small Faces’ ability to craft catchy, memorable pop songs while also experimenting with more avant-garde sounds. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal. It’s a track that continues to inspire and delight listeners of all ages. Whether you’re a longtime fan of The Small Faces or simply someone who appreciates great music, “Itchykoo Park” is a must-listen.
Video
Lyrics
Over bridge of sighs
To rest my eyes in shades of green
Under dreaming spires
To Itchycoo Park, that’s where I’ve been
I got high
(What did you feel there?) well, I cried
(But why the tears there?) tell you why
It’s all too beautiful, it’s all too beautiful
It’s all too beautiful, it’s all too beautiful
I feel inclined to blow my mind
Get hung up, feed the ducks with a bun
They all come out to groove about
Be nice and have fun in the sun
I’ll tell you what I’ll do (what will you do?) I’d like to go there now with you
You can miss out school (won’t that be cool?) why go to learn the words of fools?
we’ll get high
(What will we touch there?) we’ll touch the sky
(But why the tears there?) I’ll tell you why
It’s all too beautiful, it’s all too beautiful
It’s all too beautiful, it’s all too beautiful
I feel inclined to blow my mind
Get hung up, feed the ducks with a bun
They all come out to groove about
Be nice and have fun in the sun
It’s all too beautiful, it’s all too beautiful
It’s all too beautiful, hah
It’s all too beautiful, it’s all too beautiful
It’s all too beautiful, it’s all too beautiful
It’s all too beautiful, it’s all too beautiful