The Animals - Animalisms (1966)
The Animals – Animalisms (1966) | Full Album Guide, Tracklist, Credits & Trivia
Introduction
Animalisms (1966) marks a transitional and experimental phase for The Animals, moving away from their earlier pure blues sound toward a more psychedelic and diverse rock direction. With lineup changes already affecting the band, this album captures a moment where their identity began to evolve under Eric Burdon’s expanding musical vision.
Album Overview
- Artist: The Animals
- Album: Animalisms
- Release Year: 1966
- Genre: Blues Rock / Psychedelic Rock
- Label: Decca (UK)
- Producer: Tom Wilson
Tracklist (UK Version – Original Release)
- One Monkey Don't Stop No Show
- Maudie
- Outcast
- Sweet Little Sixteen
- You're on My Mind
- Clapping
- Gin House Blues
- Squeeze Her, Tease Her
- What Am I Living For
- I Put a Spell on You
- That's All I Am to You
- She'll Return It
Album Credits
- Eric Burdon – Lead Vocals
- Hilton Valentine – Guitar
- Dave Rowberry – Keyboards
- Chas Chandler – Bass
- Barry Jenkins – Drums
Producer: Tom Wilson
Label: Decca Records (UK)
UK vs US Version (Collector Insight)
Animalisms also exists in different UK and US versions:
- The US version includes tracks not found on the UK release, such as “See See Rider”
- The UK version is more cohesive, while the US version feels more like a compilation
- Different artwork and sequencing increase collector complexity
For collectors, the UK pressing is generally considered the definitive version.
Musical Style & Evolution
This album shows The Animals stepping into more experimental territory while maintaining strong blues roots:
- More aggressive and electric sound
- Prominent organ-driven arrangements
- Greater focus on atmosphere and mood
Eric Burdon’s vocal performance becomes more intense and expressive, foreshadowing the band’s later psychedelic phase.
Fun Facts & Trivia
- Produced by Tom Wilson, known for working with Bob Dylan and The Velvet Underground
- Features a standout version of “I Put a Spell on You”
- Dave Rowberry replaced Alan Price, significantly changing the band’s sound
- Reflects the broader musical shift of 1966 toward psychedelic rock
Did You Know?
- The band was already undergoing internal changes during this period
- This is considered one of the last albums of the original Animals lineup
- Some tracks were recorded quickly due to tight studio schedules
- UK and US variations make this album highly collectible among vinyl fans.
More Albums:
USA Album Version (1966)
