Re: Frank.Ocean.-.2012.-.channel.ORANGE.[FLAC]
Anna Pybus
Frank Ocean's Channel Orange: A Masterpiece of Soul and R&B in FLAC Quality
If you are a fan of soul and R&B music, you probably have heard of Frank Ocean, one of the most talented and influential artists of the 21st century. His debut studio album, Channel Orange, released in 2012, is widely regarded as a modern classic that showcases his unique voice, poetic lyrics, and eclectic musical influences. But did you know that you can enjoy this album in a higher quality format than the standard MP3 or CD? In this article, we will explain what FLAC format is, why it is better for listening to music, and how you can download Frank Ocean's Channel Orange in FLAC quality.
What is FLAC format?
FLAC stands for Free Lossless Audio Codec, which is a type of audio compression that preserves the original sound quality of the source without any loss of data. Unlike MP3 or AAC, which are lossy formats that reduce the file size by discarding some audio information, FLAC compresses the file without sacrificing any detail or nuance. This means that FLAC files sound exactly the same as the original recording, with no distortion or degradation.
FLAC files are also compatible with most devices and players, such as computers, smartphones, tablets, and digital audio players. However, they are larger in size than MP3 or AAC files, which means they take up more storage space and bandwidth. For example, a typical MP3 file of a song might be around 5 MB, while a FLAC file of the same song might be around 25 MB. Therefore, FLAC files are more suitable for audiophiles who care about sound quality and have enough storage capacity.
Why is FLAC better for listening to Channel Orange?
Channel Orange is an album that deserves to be heard in its full glory, as it features rich and diverse musical elements that span across genres such as alternative R&B, progressive soul, neo soul, electro-funk, jazz-funk, and psychedelic music. The album also incorporates nonmusical sounds such as film dialogue and ambient noise that function as interludes between songs. By listening to Channel Orange in FLAC format, you can appreciate the subtle details and nuances that Frank Ocean and his producers put into the album.
For instance, you can hear the crisp and clear vocals of Frank Ocean as he sings about unrequited love, decadence, social class, and drugs with his free-form flow and alternating falsetto and tenor registers. You can also hear the intricate and layered instrumentation that creates a lush and atmospheric soundscapes for each song. Some of the instruments used on the album include keyboards, synthesizers, guitars, basses, drums, percussion, horns, strings, harpsichord, organ, and piano. Additionally, you can hear the guest appearances from Odd Future rappers Earl Sweatshirt and Tyler , The Creator , vocalist/songwriter André 3000 , and guitarist John Mayer , who add their own flavor and style to the album.
How to download Channel Orange in FLAC format?
If you want to download Channel Orange in FLAC format , you have several options available. One option is to buy the album from an online store that sells high-resolution audio files , such as HDtracks , Qobuz , or 7digital . These stores offer various formats and bitrates for different prices , so you can choose the one that suits your preference and budget . Another option is to use a torrent site that hosts FLAC files , such as The Pirate Bay , Kickass Torrents , or 1337x . However , this option is illegal and risky , as you might violate copyright laws or expose your device to malware or viruses . Therefore , we do not recommend this option unless you are willing to take the consequences .
What do critics say about Channel Orange?
Channel Orange has received universal acclaim from critics, who praised Ocean's songwriting, voice, and musical diversity. The album was named the best album of 2012 by numerous publications, including Pitchfork , Rolling Stone , The Guardian , and Spin . It also won a Grammy Award for Best Urban Contemporary Album and was nominated for Album of the Year and Best New Artist.
Some of the highlights from the critics' reviews are:
- "Frank Ocean has quickly proven himself to be among the most gifted singer-songwriters of his generation; he's got the type of voice, wit, charm, smarts, and ineffable humanity that's always hoped for, but never promised." - Ryan Dombal, Pitchfork
- "He is a torch singer. Hes also his own man, a distinctive voice with no real analogue in R&B, or anywhere else in todays pop." - Jody Rosen, Rolling Stone
- "In a formulaic era, his production is impressively idiosyncratic, heavy on hazy electronics and cavernous, dubby reverb, and packed with weird touches: the melodies never quite pan out as you expect them to." - Alexis Petridis, The Guardian
How successful was Channel Orange commercially?
Channel Orange was a commercial success, selling over one million copies worldwide and earning Ocean several awards and accolades. The album debuted at number two on the US Billboard 200 chart, selling 131,000 copies in its first week. It was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) in September 2014, indicating shipments of over 500,000 units in the US. As of June 2020, the album has sold 621,000 copies in the US, according to Nielsen SoundScan.
The album also performed well in other countries, reaching the top 10 in Australia, Canada, Denmark, Ireland, New Zealand, Norway, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. It was certified platinum by the British Phonographic Industry (BPI) in July 2016, indicating shipments of over 300,000 units in the UK. As of July 2020, the album has sold 975,000 copies worldwide, according to BestSellingAlbums.org.
What are some of the best songs from Channel Orange?
Channel Orange features 17 songs that showcase Ocean's versatility and creativity as a singer-songwriter and producer. Some of the most popular and acclaimed songs from the album are:
- "Thinkin Bout You": The lead single from the album, which peaked at number 32 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and was nominated for Record of the Year and Best Urban Contemporary Album at the Grammys. The song is a tender and nostalgic ballad about Ocean's first love.
- "Pyramids": The second single from the album, which spans nearly 10 minutes and tells a complex story of a fallen Egyptian queen who becomes a stripper in modern-day America. The song is a musical odyssey that blends elements of funk, soul, rock, and electronica.
- "Super Rich Kids": The fifth single from the album, which features a guest verse from Odd Future rapper Earl Sweatshirt. The song is a satirical and melancholic portrait of wealthy and bored teenagers who indulge in drugs, sex, and violence.
- "Bad Religion": A soulful and emotional confession of Ocean's unrequited love for a man, which he reveals to a Muslim taxi driver. The song features a lush orchestral arrangement and Ocean's powerful vocals.
- "Pink Matter": A collaboration with Outkast legend André 3000, who delivers a witty and philosophical rap verse. The song is a contemplation of love, sex, and existence over a smooth and sensual beat.
How did Channel Orange influence other artists and genres?
Channel Orange is widely regarded as one of the most influential albums of the 2010s, as it inspired a new generation of artists who experimented with genre-blending, sonic experimentation, and personal storytelling. Ocean's album also created a more open and accepting environment for queer musicians, especially in the fields of R&B and hip-hop, which have traditionally been seen as homophobic and heteronormative.
Some of the artists who have cited Channel Orange as an influence or expressed admiration for Ocean are:
- SZA: The alternative R&B singer-songwriter has praised Ocean's songwriting and vocal abilities, and has covered his songs "Thinkin Bout You" and "Super Rich Kids" live.
- Lorde: The pop star has called Ocean "one of my idols" and has said that Channel Orange was one of the albums that shaped her musical taste and style.
- Sam Smith: The British soul singer has credited Ocean for helping him come out as gay, and has said that Channel Orange was "a life-changing record" for him.
- Khalid: The R&B singer has named Ocean as one of his biggest influences, and has said that Channel Orange was "the first album that I ever listened to from front to back."
- Brockhampton: The hip-hop collective has often expressed their admiration for Ocean and his music, and has sampled his songs "Futura Free" and "Close to You" on their albums.
How did Channel Orange perform live?
Channel Orange was supported by a concert tour that ran from July to November 2012. Ocean performed in various festivals and venues across North America, Europe, and Australia, including Lollapalooza, Coachella, and the O2 Academy Brixton. He was joined by a live band that consisted of keyboardist Christophe Chassol, guitarist Paul Pesco, bassist Kevin Scott, drummer David Ryan Harris, and backup singers Nia Andrews and Leon Ware.
Ocean's live performances were praised by critics and fans alike, who noted his charisma, vocal prowess, and emotional connection with the audience. He also surprised his fans by bringing out special guests such as John Mayer, Earl Sweatshirt, and Tyler, the Creator on stage. Some of the highlights from his live shows are:
- "Bad Religion": Ocean delivered a stunning rendition of this song on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon on July 9, 2012, the same day he released Channel Orange online. He was accompanied by The Roots and a string section, and received a standing ovation from the crowd.
- "Pyramids": Ocean performed this epic song at the 2012 MTV Video Music Awards on September 6, 2012. He sang on a stage that resembled a desert landscape, with a bonfire and a full moon in the background. He also played a guitar solo at the end of the song.
- "Thinkin Bout You": Ocean sang this hit single at the 2013 Grammy Awards on February 10, 2013. He used a video projection of an old video game to create a retro-futuristic vibe, and also showcased his falsetto skills.
Conclusion
Channel Orange is a masterpiece of soul and R&B music that showcases Frank Ocean's artistic vision and talent. The album is a sonic journey that explores themes of love, identity, and society with honesty and creativity. It is also a landmark album that influenced many artists and genres, and opened up new possibilities for queer expression and representation in music. Channel Orange is an album that deserves to be heard in its full quality, and FLAC format is the best way to do so. If you are a fan of Frank Ocean or music in general, you should definitely download Channel Orange in FLAC format and enjoy this timeless classic.
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