"Subway to the Country" is the second studio album by American singer-songwriter David Ackles, following his self-titled debut. The album was released in 1969 through record label Elektra. Drawn through similarities in their raw talent and adept lyricism, Ackles was often compared to the likes of Leonard Cohen and Randy Newman.
Like its predecessor, "Subway to the Country" continued to explore Ackles' unique brand of songwriting, which was crafted with theatrical and classical influences. The album primarily falls under the genre of singer/songwriter, but also includes elements of contemporary pop/rock. It served as a demonstration of Ackles' adept storytelling abilities, with narratives often imbuing an earnest sense of compassion and social commentary.
One of the most notable tracks on the album is "Candy Man," a chilling song that blends dark lyrics with an upbeat melody, striking a unique tone that became representative of the sort of juxtaposition Ackles was excellent in creating. Other standout tracks include the emotive title track "Subway to the Country" and the evocative "Body for Myth."
Despite receiving critical acclaim, "Subway to the Country," like Ackles' other works, did not gain commercial success. Nevertheless, it helped solidify Ackles’ enduring legacy as a respected and influential figure in the songwriting realm. Today, his works continue to be discovered and adored by new generations and are often cited as influential by other artists in the industry.
