Noel Gallagher performing live onstage, playing Epiphone Sheraton Union Jack guitar at Maine Road, April 1996. (Photo by Patrick Ford/Redferns)

“The Masterplan” is a compilation album by the English rock band Oasis, released in 1998. It’s a collection of B-sides and other rare tracks that were not included on the band’s studio albums. Here are some facts about this album:

  1. Release Date: “The Masterplan” was released on November 2, 1998, in the UK, and later in other parts of the world. It served as a follow-up to Oasis’ hugely successful albums “Definitely Maybe” (1994) and “(What’s the Story) Morning Glory?” (1995).
  2. Tracklist: The album features 14 tracks, including B-sides from various singles, live recordings, and some previously unreleased songs. Some of the standout tracks include “Acquiesce,” “Talk Tonight,” and the title track “The Masterplan.”
  3. Chart Performance: The album performed well on the UK Albums Chart, peaking at number two and being certified Platinum. It also received positive reviews from critics, who praised the quality of the B-sides and the overall diversity of the collection.
  4. “Acquiesce”: The song “Acquiesce” is often considered one of the standout tracks on the album. It’s a duet between the Gallagher brothers, Liam and Noel, and has become a fan favourite and a staple of their live performances.
  5. Importance to Oasis: “The Masterplan” is significant in Oasis’ discography because it showcases the band’s strength as songwriters beyond their main studio albums. It highlights their ability to craft memorable tunes that didn’t make it onto their regular LPs.
  6. Notable B-sides: In addition to “Acquiesce” and “Talk Tonight,” the album includes other well-regarded B-sides like “Half the World Away,” “Rockin’ Chair,” and “Underneath the Sky.” These tracks have gained popularity in their own right.
  7. Cover Art: The cover art for the album features a collage of images and text, reflecting the DIY aesthetic that was characteristic of the band’s early years.
  8. Fan Favorites: “The Masterplan” is cherished by many Oasis fans and is often regarded as one of their best releases. It’s a testament to the band’s songwriting prowess and their ability to create enduring music.
  9. Legacy: The album is considered a significant release in the Britpop era and is often cited as an essential part of the Oasis discography. It has also helped introduce some of their lesser-known tracks to a wider audience.
  10. Reissues and Vinyl: “The Masterplan” has been reissued several times, including on vinyl. It continues to be a sought-after album for collectors and fans of the band.

Overall, “The Masterplan” is a compilation album that showcases Oasis’ depth as songwriters and contains some of their most beloved songs. It’s a must-listen for any fan of the band or the Britpop era.

Filed under: Oasis