"Arthur or the Decline and Fall of the British Empire", often referred to simply as "Arthur", is the seventh studio album by the Kinks, released on 10 October 1969. This concept album was crafted by frontman Ray Davies as a soundtrack for a Granada Television play that was ultimately never produced. The storyline follows Arthur Morgan, a carpet-layer based on the Davies brothers' brother-in-law, Arthur Anning.
Arthur is notable for being the first Kinks album featuring bassist John Dalton, who replaced Pete Quaife following his departure. The album emerged during a challenging time for the band, particularly after the lackluster performance of their previous release, The Kinks Are the Village Green Preservation Society.
Ray Davies collaborated with novelist Julian Mitchell to develop the album's narrative, which reflects themes of nostalgia and the socio-economic challenges in post-war Britain. The Kinks aimed to encapsulate the struggles and aspirations of Arthur's life, including his family's emigration to Australia.
Although the album did not achieve commercial success initially, it garnered critical acclaim, especially in the American music press. The singles "Drivin'" and "Shangri-La" failed to chart in the UK, but "Victoria" became a hit in the US, peaking at number 62 on the Billboard Hot 100. The album itself reached number 105 on the Billboard Top LPs chart, marking a slight resurgence in the band's fortunes.
The narrative explores Arthur's life in a London suburb, detailing his family dynamics and the broader context of British society. It addresses themes such as nostalgia for a lost England, the promise of life in Australia, and the impact of war on personal lives.
Arthur was released in both mono and stereo formats, though the mono version was not available in the US. The promotion for the album included an ambitious marketing campaign by Reprise Records, aimed at revitalizing the Kinks' image in America.
The album's artwork, created by Bob Lawrie, featured a gatefold sleeve and a unique insert depicting Queen Victoria. This visual presentation, combined with the album's rich storytelling, contributed to its enduring legacy in rock music.
Overall, Arthur laid the groundwork for the Kinks' later successes, including their acclaimed 1970 album, Lola Versus Powerman and the Moneygoround, Part One.
