Central Reservation

Expanded Overview
Released in 1999, Central Reservation is the second studio album by British singer-songwriter Beth Orton. The album blends elements of folk, electronica, and trip-hop, showcasing Orton’s distinctive voice and introspective songwriting. Notable tracks include “Stolen Car” and the title track “Central Reservation,” both of which received critical acclaim and contributed to the album’s success.

Critical Reception
Central Reservation was met with positive reviews from critics, who praised Orton’s fusion of genres and emotive vocal performances. The album earned her a BRIT Award nomination for Best British Female Solo Artist and won the Mercury Music Prize for Best Album in 1999. Its innovative sound and heartfelt lyrics resonated with a wide audience, solidifying Orton’s place in the music industry.

Career Context
Following her debut album Trailer Park, Central Reservation marked a significant step in Orton’s career, showcasing her growth as an artist and her ability to blend different musical styles seamlessly. The album’s success helped establish her as a leading figure in the folktronica genre and expanded her international fan base.

Standout Tracks

• Stolen Car – A compelling track that combines folk melodies with electronic beats, highlighting Orton’s unique sound.
• Central Reservation – The title track offers a more acoustic feel, with introspective lyrics and a soothing melody.
• Sweetest Decline – A melancholic song that showcases Orton’s emotive vocal delivery and lyrical depth.

Overall Impact
Central Reservation remains a significant album in Beth Orton’s discography, exemplifying her talent for blending genres and creating emotionally resonant music. Its innovative approach and heartfelt songwriting continue to influence artists within the folktronica and singer-songwriter scenes.

Discogs Link
Central Reservation – Beth Orton on Discogs

Similars

• Massive Attack – Mezzanine
  An album that blends electronic music with atmospheric soundscapes, similar to Orton’s style.
• Beck – Morning Phase
  Features a fusion of folk and electronic elements, with introspective lyrics.
• P J Harvey – Stories From The City, Stories From The Sea
  Combines rock and folk influences with emotive storytelling.
• The War On Drugs – Lost In The Dream
  An album that merges indie rock with ambient sounds, creating a reflective atmosphere.

Vinyl Edition Details – Central Reservation by Beth Orton

The vinyl edition of Central Reservation, Discogs release code [r5670555], is a 1999 pressing that delivers the album’s unique blend of folk and electronica with warm analog sound. This edition is pressed on standard black vinyl and features the original tracklist. Packaged in a single sleeve, the album includes full-color artwork and a printed inner sleeve with lyrics and credits, making it a sought-after collectible for fans and vinyl enthusiasts.

Key details about the vinyl pressing:

• Label: Heavenly
• Format: 2×LP, Album, Standard-Weight Vinyl
• Release Year: 1999
• Country: UK

Tracklist:

Side A:

• 1. Stolen Car
• 2. Sweetest Decline

Side B:

• 1. Couldn’t Cause Me Harm
• 2. So Much More
• 3. Pass in Time

Side C:

• 1. Central Reservation (Original Version)
• 2. Stars All Seem to Weep
• 3. Love Like Laughter

Side D:

• 1. Blood Red River
• 2. Devil Song
• 3. Feel to Believe

Credits:

• Vocals, Guitar: Beth Orton
• Producer: Victor Van Vugt, Ben Watt
• Strings: Terry Devine-King
• Design: Rick Myers

Notable Features:

• Standard-weight vinyl pressing with warm analog sound.
• Includes full-color artwork and printed inner sleeve with lyrics and credits.
• A faithful reproduction of the original 1999 release.