About the song
Al Stewart’s “Year of the Cat” is an enduring masterpiece that seamlessly blends folk, rock, and jazz influences into a captivating tapestry of sound. Released in 1976, the song rapidly ascended the charts, becoming Stewart’s signature piece and a cornerstone of the classic rock canon.
What distinguishes “Year of the Cat” is its ability to transcend mere musicality, delving into realms of storytelling and evocative imagery. Stewart’s lyrical prowess is on full display as he constructs a vivid narrative of a young man’s journey through the tumultuous 1960s. The song’s title, while enigmatic, serves as a metaphorical prism through which Stewart explores themes of time, change, and the search for meaning.
The track’s musical arrangement is equally impressive. The interplay between acoustic and electric guitars, coupled with the subtle infusion of jazz-inspired solos, creates a rich and dynamic soundscape. The rhythm section provides a steady, propulsive foundation, while the layered instrumentation adds depth and complexity. This sonic palette perfectly complements the song’s introspective and contemplative mood.
Beyond its commercial success, “Year of the Cat” has resonated with listeners across generations. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia while remaining relevant to contemporary audiences. The song’s exploration of universal themes, combined with its masterful craftsmanship, has solidified its status as a timeless classic.
Video
Lyrics
“Year Of The Cat”
In a country where they turn back time
You go strolling through the crowd like Peter Lorre
Contemplating a crime
She comes out of the sun in a silk dress running
Like a watercolor in the rain
Don’t bother asking for explanations
She’ll just tell you that she came
In the year of the cat
She doesn’t give you time for questions
As she locks up your arm in hers
And you follow till your sense of which direction
Completely disappears
By the blue tiled walls near the market stalls
There’s a hidden door she leads you to
These days, she says, “I feel my life
Just like a river running through”
The year of the cat
Well, she looks at you so coolly
And her eyes shine like the moon in the sea
She comes in incense and patchouli
So you take her, to find what’s waiting inside
The year of the cat
Well morning comes and you’re still with her
And the bus and the tourists are gone
And you’ve thrown away your choice and lost your ticket
So you have to stay on
But the drumbeat strains of the night remain
In the rhythm of the new-born day
You know sometime you’re bound to leave her
But for now you’re going to stay
In the year of the cat
Year of the cat