Rediscovering the Elegance of The Carpenters: “Two Sides” from Passage
When one thinks of The Carpenters, the mind often drifts to their iconic hits like “Close to You” or “We’ve Only Just Begun.” However, tucked away in their diverse discography is a hidden gem titled “Two Sides,” a track from their 1977 album, Passage. This album marked a significant shift in the duo’s musical direction, offering fans a more experimental sound that was a departure from their usual soft pop style.
“Two Sides” is a song that resonates with the bittersweet essence that Karen Carpenter was known for delivering so effortlessly. With a runtime of 3 minutes and 28 seconds, the track captures the emotional complexity of relationships, offering a poignant reflection on the duality of love—how it can bring both joy and sorrow. The song’s lyrics, penned by Scott E. Davis, are a testament to this duality, presenting a narrative that many listeners over the years have found deeply relatable.
At the time of its release, Passage produced several singles that garnered attention on the charts. While “Two Sides” wasn’t released as a single, its parent album still made a mark with tracks like “All You Get from Love Is a Love Song” and the quirky, sci-fi-infused “Calling Occupants of Interplanetary Craft.” These songs demonstrated The Carpenters‘ willingness to explore new musical landscapes, even if it meant stepping away from the sound that had brought them so much success in the early 1970s.
What makes “Two Sides” particularly special is how it showcases Karen Carpenter‘s vocal prowess. Her voice, warm and rich with emotion, conveys the song’s lyrical content with a sincerity that only she could deliver. The production is lush yet restrained, allowing Karen’s voice to take center stage, supported by gentle instrumentation that complements the song’s introspective mood.
Despite Passage being the first Carpenters album not to achieve gold certification in the US, it remains a critical piece of their artistic journey. This album is notable for being the only one in their catalog that does not feature a song written by Richard Carpenter or their frequent collaborator John Bettis. Additionally, Passage was the second album where Karen did not play the drums, a role she had performed with incredible skill on many of their earlier tracks.
Listening to “Two Sides” today, one can appreciate the depth and maturity that The Carpenters brought to their music during this phase of their career. While it may not have been a chart-topping hit, the song stands as a reminder of the duo’s ability to tap into the emotional core of their audience, offering a tender and thoughtful exploration of love’s complexities.
For those who have yet to discover or revisit “Two Sides,” it serves as a beautiful reminder of why The Carpenters continue to be celebrated as one of the most beloved musical acts of their time. Their music, even in its quieter moments, leaves a lasting impression—a testament to the timeless quality of their artistry.