Baker's Dozen

Artists discuss the 13 records that shaped their lives

2. Leonard CohenOld Ideas

I like all of Leonard Cohen’s records and I always have, but I especially liked Old Ideas. It has very beautiful, moving songs. The songs I really like refer to death, which is kind of appropriate as one grows older. I try to address life’s great themes in my music too, although not everybody is interested in all that. But I am, and Leonard Cohen is one of the best. His writing is so good. He’s a master. His sense of humour doesn’t always comes across, though. One of my favourite Cohen songs, which I do myself sometimes, is ‘Tower Of Song’, which is incredibly witty.

PreviousNext Record

Don’t Miss The Quietus Digest

Start each weekend with our free email newsletter.

Help Support The Quietus in 2025

If you’ve read something you love on our site today, please consider becoming a tQ subscriber – our journalism is mostly funded this way. We’ve got some bonus perks waiting for you too.

Subscribe Now