The Kinks' third studio album The Kink Kontroversy was released in 1965. The album's title is a reference to the fact that they were banned from touring in the US for their rowdy stage presence. It was the band's first album to have the same track list and order for both American and British releases. It is also considered a transition album as Ray Davies's songwriting became more influenced by British music and his lyrics became more introspective, philosophical, and political.
Although this is their first album that is well produced, it's their first to lack any standout material. Sure, it includes the hit "Till the End of the Day," but it's painfully unsatisfying as the album's best. "Milk Cow Blues," "When I See That Girl of Mine," and "I'm on an Island" are similar in quality--pleasant, but nothing worth remembering 50 years later. And instead of helping the album, the diversity of musical influences leaves the band unable to properly focus on mastering the songs Ray has brought them. As for the lyrics, Davies's writing hasn't ascended mediocrity yet. The shift in song topics hasn't made his writing more imaginative or expanded his imagery. A transition album indeed. B-
