Oasis: (What’s the Story) Morning Glory? Album Review
Released in 1995, (What’s the Story) Morning Glory? catapulted Oasis into rock superstardom, defining the Britpop era. Musically, the album blends big, anthemic guitar riffs with melodic hooks, creating a mix of swaggering rock and heartfelt ballads. Tracks like "Wonderwall" and "Don't Look Back in Anger" showcase Noel Gallagher's songwriting brilliance, while Liam Gallagher’s raw, iconic vocals lend a sense of defiance and vulnerability to the songs.
The album’s production, led by Owen Morris, gives it a polished but spacious sound, with reverb-drenched guitars and prominent vocal lines that emphasize the grandiose feel. The musicality is straightforward but effective, blending classic rock influences like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones with the band’s Manchester roots. The simplicity in chord structures and melodies makes the songs instantly relatable and singable, yet there’s enough depth in the lyrics and arrangements to keep listeners engaged.
The recording process, however, wasn’t without its struggles. The volatile relationship between the Gallagher brothers, Liam and Noel, led to numerous in-studio arguments and walkouts, which threatened to derail the album's progress. Their tensions added a layer of grit and emotional intensity to the recording process, which, ironically, contributed to the raw energy of the album.
At the time of writing, (What’s the Story) Morning Glory? has sold over 22 million copies worldwide. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to capture the essence of mid-90s rock, making it not just a cornerstone of Britpop but one of the most beloved albums in rock history.
