Axelrod, David: Song of Innocence LP

Song of Innocence (1968) is the visionary debut solo album by producer, arranger, and composer David Axelrod, released on Capitol Records. Named after William Blake’s poetry collection, the record blends psychedelia, jazz fusion, orchestral textures, and baroque influences into a groundbreaking sound that would prove highly influential for generations to come.

Featuring the iconic tracks “The Smile” and “Holy Thursday”, the album showcases Axelrod’s masterful arrangements performed by top session players: guitarists Al Casey and Howard Roberts, bassist Carol Kaye, drummer Earl Palmer, and keyboardist/conductor Don Randi. Its deep grooves and cinematic textures have been sampled by artists like J Dilla and DJ Shadow, underlining its lasting cultural impact.