Reevaluating the Rolling Stones' 'Between the Buttons': An Underrated Album?

For years, the album 'Between the Buttons' by The Rolling Stones has been a subject of debate among fans and critics alike. While some argue that it is an underrated masterpiece, others dismiss it as a poorly recorded and slapdash effort. In this article, we will explore the merits of this album and its place in the Rolling Stones' discography.

The Opinions and Controversy

Mick Jagger, a founding member of the band, has famously expressed a lack of enthusiasm for the album, describing it as not one of his favorites. However, as a staunch fan of the Stones, I believe that 'Between the Buttons' has stood the test of time and is deserving of a higher place in the band's catalog.

I personally enjoyed several tracks on the album, particularly those on the American version such as "Ruby Tuesday," "Connection," "My Obsession," "Cool Calm and Collected," "Who's Been Sleeping Here," and "Yesterday's Papers." While the album may have been different from the band's previous efforts, it has held up well over the years and is often viewed positively by critics.

One critique of the album is that it did not receive the same fanfare as the band's other releases. Keith Richards, a key player in the sound of the album, reportedly abandoned the electric guitar for a more acoustic sound, which some enthusiasts might find less exciting.

Reception and Critical Acclaim

Despite its lack of immediate fandom, 'Between the Buttons' has received significant critical acclaim. The album was certified Gold and reached the No. 3 position on the charts. However, as a long-time fan, I must admit that it has not held up to the standards of albums like 'Aftermath,' 'Beggars Banquet,' 'Let It Bleed,' 'Sticky Fingers,' or the legendary 'Exile on Main St.'

That said, other critics have praised the album, particularly in a retro context. Robert Christgau, a prominent music critic, included 'Between the Buttons' in his 'Christgau's Record Guide: Rock Albums of the Seventies' in 1981. Rich Unterberger of AllMusic hailed it as one of the Rolling Stones' best albums, and Entertainment Weekly's David Browne referred to the album as 'Swinging London' vaudeville rock. Christopher Walsh of Billboard praised the album's place in 'The Rolling Stone Album Guide' (2004), while Jim DeRogatis included it in his list of essential 'psychedelic rock' albums in 2003.

In a broader context, 'Between the Buttons' has been ranked 357 on Rolling Stone magazine's '500 Greatest Albums of All Time.' This ranking further solidifies the album's recognition within the rock music canon.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while 'Between the Buttons' may not be considered the band's finest work by all standards, it is certainly deserving of a place among The Rolling Stones' top albums. The album's niche in the evolution of the band's sound and the critical acclaim it has received, especially in retrospectives, suggest that it is an underrated gem. Fans and critics alike should take another look at this lesser-known but highly valued album.