Eddie Vedder - Ukulele Songs (180g Vinyl LP)

Eddie Vedder – Ukulele Songs (180g Vinyl LP) captures the unmistakable voice of the Pearl Jam frontman in one of his most intimate and personal recordings. Originally released in 2011, Ukulele Songs is Vedder's second solo studio album, replacing the powerful electric guitars of Pearl Jam with the delicate, expressive sound of the ukulele. The result is a beautifully understated collection of original compositions and reimagined classics exploring love, heartbreak, longing and companionship.

Across sixteen tracks, Vedder demonstrates how much emotion can be conveyed through a remarkably simple arrangement. His distinctive baritone takes centre stage, accompanied primarily by gently strummed ukulele melodies. Without the layers of instrumentation associated with his work in Pearl Jam, the album reveals a more vulnerable side of his songwriting, allowing every vocal inflection and lyrical detail to shine.

The album opens with Can't Keep, a captivating acoustic reinterpretation of the Pearl Jam song originally released on 2002's Riot Act. Stripped of its full-band arrangement, the track takes on an entirely different character, demonstrating the versatility of Vedder's songwriting.

Among the album's standout original compositions are Sleeping By Myself, a bittersweet reflection on loneliness, and Without You, which pairs a memorable melody with deeply personal lyrics. Longing To Belong is another highlight, capturing the emotional uncertainty of love through Vedder's expressive vocal performance and delicate ukulele accompaniment.

The album also features two memorable guest appearances. Irish singer-songwriter Glen Hansard, known for his work with The Frames and the film Once, joins Vedder on a moving rendition of Sleepless Nights. Meanwhile, Cat Power contributes vocals to Tonight You Belong To Me, creating a charming duet that beautifully complements the album's intimate atmosphere.

Other highlights include the warm and uplifting Satellite, the reflective You're True and the gently optimistic Light Today. Brief instrumental moments such as Waving Palms add to the record's relaxed, unhurried character, while the closing interpretation of Dream A Little Dream provides a fittingly tender conclusion.

Despite its minimalist approach, Ukulele Songs is a remarkably varied album. Vedder draws inspiration from traditional folk music, vintage popular standards and acoustic singer-songwriter traditions, creating a recording that feels both timeless and deeply personal. Its gentle arrangements and emotional honesty make it a rewarding listen for longtime Pearl Jam fans and anyone who appreciates beautifully crafted acoustic music.

This 2022 standard-edition vinyl reissue presents the complete original sixteen-track album on 180g black vinyl. The heavyweight pressing is housed in a gatefold sleeve, making it an excellent addition to any Eddie Vedder or Pearl Jam vinyl collection.

Whether you're discovering Vedder's solo recordings for the first time or revisiting this much-loved album, Ukulele Songs offers a refreshing change of pace and an opportunity to experience one of rock music's most recognisable voices in a wonderfully intimate setting.

Supplied brand new and sealed.

Available from Heathen Records, your independent Australian online record store specialising in new and collectible vinyl.

Details

• Artist: Eddie Vedder
• Album: Ukulele Songs
• Format: 180g Vinyl LP
• Edition: Standard Edition Reissue (2022)
• Vinyl Colour: Black
• Original Release Year: 2011
• Vinyl Reissue Year: 2022
• Genre: Acoustic Rock / Folk / Singer-Songwriter
• Record Label: Island / Universal Music
• Catalogue Number: 4502882
• Barcode: 602445028825
• Packaging: Gatefold Sleeve
• Tracks: 16
• Condition: Brand New and Sealed

Tracklist

Side A

• A1 Can't Keep
• A2 Sleeping By Myself
• A3 Without You
• A4 More Than You Know
• A5 Goodbye
• A6 Broken Heart
• A7 Satellite

Side B

• B1 Longing To Belong
• B2 Hey Fahkah
• B3 You're True
• B4 Light Today
• B5 Sleepless Nights (with Glen Hansard)
• B6 Once In A While
• B7 Waving Palms
• B8 Tonight You Belong To Me (with Cat Power)
• B9 Dream A Little Dream