The Wild, the Innoncent and the E Street Shuffle

Rolling Stone Rank: 132

People who love Bruce, love this album.  I am not one of those people.  I think this is mainly due to the fact that I was born in 1985, I dunno.  I kinda feel the same way about U2, for whatever reason. In pure Bruce fashion, all the tracks on the album are long and winding stories, probably the best known one is Rosalita, which by the way is my favorite.  According to RS, this album is where Bruce honed his voice and writing style, so I suppose these are good examples of his style.

If you like The Boss, then you'll love this album.  But chances are if you love him, you already have this album.  Ugh, i just re-read that first paragraph and it looks like a Chuck Klosterman starting paragraph, so I'll just stop now while I'm ahead.  Night!

Stats

Album: The Wild, the Innocent and E Street Shuffle
Artist: Bruce Springsteen
Year: 1973
My Favorite Song: Rosalita
Next Up: Notorious

Saturday Night Fever

Rolling Stone Rank: 131


Well, in all honesty I really wanted to write this on a Saturday night, but oh well Tuesday will do.  This album was really fun.  Not a whole ton of substance behind it, and it was a compilation, so obviously I don't think it should be on this list (This album won the grammy for album of the year, ahhh to live in the 70s).  Anyway, listening to the soundtrack got me thinking about all these "greatest" lists.  Well actually listening to the album and having a long drawn out argument with Adam over the state of  music today.  So, i decided i should make a list of my own.  I'm actually more intrigued about looking over music from the past decade than I'm interested in proving him wrong.  But, whatever the motive, expect that from me in the next few days.


I should explain why I haven't written in a month.  A few reasons actually, and the first one is something I talked about in an earlier post.  I listen to podcasts now when I run.  I used to listen to music, but the problem is that music is not distracting enough for me.  It's too easy to notice the end of a track, and well I need all the help I can get excercising without stopping.  So, because of that, I don't have the daily time to listen to albums that I had before.  Which brings me to my second reason, I want to devote an appropriate amount of time to think about each album.  I'd rather not just bang through these, which I'm prone to do on occasion.  


So this blog of mine has come to a crossroads.  Do I want to update and give up on doing an album with each post, or take the time to really dissect albums?  For now I think I'm going to try and do both, that's why they makes this posts with labels on them, right?  Anway, it's now 4AM, and my disc of One Tree Hill is finished.  Go winter break!

Stats

Album: Saturday Night Fever
Artist: Various, but mostly the Bee Gees
Year: 1977
My Favorite Song: Night on Disco Mountain
Next Up: The Boss

Paranoid

Rolling Stone Rank: 130

THE Recording to begin hard rock. Listen to it. please. Listen to it and think about how great Osborne was, before this genereation turned him into a punchline.

Stats

Album: Paranoid
Artist: Black Sabbath
Year: 1971
My Favorite Song: War Pigs
Next Up: The Fever

40 Greatest Hits

Rolling Stone Rank: 129

Booo, greatest hits. Boo, compilation.

Ok, that's out of the way. It's an amazing way to get to know Mr. Williams. And it shows a side of him that I bet you didn't know existed. In college, my friend Matt had a Hank Williams tape. Yes, that's right I said tape. Well, it was an old car, and he didn't have a cd hook up yet. And yes, this were the days before Walgreens sold fm transmitters for $20. Anyways, i rode back home with him once and listened to this tape. When we started our trip, he was raving about this tape, i couldn't believe we were gonna spend the whole trip with this "country" singer. But by the end I had grown a new respect for the man. So that's how I think you'll feel about this recording. That's how I think you'll feel about it. The man had a dark side too, I liked Move It On Over

Stats

Album: 40 Greatest Hits
Artist: Hank Williams
Year: 1978
My Favorite Song: Move It On Over
Next Up: Black Sabbath

Marquee Moon

Rolling Stone Rank: 128

Glad that The Talking Heads came before them. The Talking Heads were the evolution three years later of what Television introduced in 1977. Well, television and the rest of the NYC punk movement, which was of course the outreach of the English punk movement. Not sure what I mean by that, I'm not really saying that their music wasn't validated, or that they didn't mean what they were saying. But, what were they saying? The British movement rose out of the complete and utter poverty that the peasant were living in. Were the New York punks just angry because they were young? And again, not there's anything wrong with that. not that they didn't feel the full passion they were singing and playing, but will it last the test of time? Interesting thoughts, right? Well, to me they are. It brings about that great question, is music more meaningful if you know the background behind it? I would say...maybe. You could argue it either way. Since music, like most art, is meant to play upon the emotions an individual feels, it doesn't really matter why the artist created it.

I guess it shows what kind of person I am. I want to get the interpretation right, whatever that means. I want to know what the artist intended for it, and maybe it makes me respect their work just a little bit more than artists who just don't give a damn. hmmmm, and that just brings me back to punk again. Man, I don't sound like the 16 year old who listened to nothing buy Fat WreckChords through junior year...

Oh hey, take a listen to this record, let me know how you feel about the angst...

Stats

Album: Marquee Moon
Artist: Television
Year: 1977
My Favorite Song: Friction
Next Up: Hank Williams, oh boy

If You Can Believe Your Eyes and Ears

Rolling Stone Rank: 127

I should explain. Usually, when I write these it's only about 2 or 3 at a time, because that's the only free moment I have. Or I should say, a free moment that isn't taken up thinking about other stupid things. Anyways, these are different, because I listened to these last five albums all on the same weekend trip. It was the trip I took with my high school kids, to Indy. I'll admit, I didn't have the usual opportunity that I do to immerse myself in an album, but at the same time, it was a different experience. I wasn't thinking about other things during the album. It was just me and the road, and in this case the Mamas and the Papas.

A great album, including two of the best songs the Mamas and Papas ever recorded and my second favorite song by this group. A unique sound, especially since they were one of the first band I had ever heard that had more than just a two part harmony. Most people my age only know California Dreamin' from mash-ups, or at least that's all I remember hearing it in college. Though I suppose you could say that about all the music I enjoy.

Beyond that harmonies, the song that I like most on this album is Spanish Harlem. I know it's a cover, and usually covers don't sit well with me, but what can I say? I heard the cover first, and fell in love with it. Also, one of the first times that I had heard a vibraphone in a recording. In middle school, I never had heard the vibes solo in a recording. The sound is unlike any other I had ever encountered. A pure sound, like a chime, but with an enticing quality.

Most definitely listen to the album, but at the very least check out the recording.

Oh what the hell, here it is

Stats

Album: If You Can Believe Your Eyes and Ears
Artist: The Mamas and the Papas
Year: 1966
My Favorite Song: Spanish Harlem
Next Up: Television

Remain in Light

Rolling Stone Rank: 126

A "new wave masterpiece" as dubbed by RS. Pretty sure I agree with them, it's a really fun album. Where each song flows into the next perfectly. Of course culminated with the fantastic Once In a Lifetime. For all the praise that David Byrne gets as this genius lyricist, I didn't realize the wonderful music behind it, I recommend you take a listen to this one. (compared to all the other ones I didn't recommend, right? I should really put a scale to this...)

Stats

Album: Remain in Light
Artist: The Talking Heads
Year: 1980
My Favorite Song: Once in a Lifetime
Next Up: The Mamas and the Papas

Raw Power

Rolling Stone Rank: 125

One more before I head off to bed. Fun ride to go on with the Stooges, this thing definitely gets your blood pumping. How can you listen to the Stooges and not picture Iggy Pop just going nuts on stage. It a strange sensation, when an aural experience is utterly dominated and taken over by such a strong visual experience. The only other thing that I can compare it to, is when you listen to a band that you've seen live. But I obviously never saw the Stooges, sigh. Another thing that upsets me while I listen to these albums, is just to realize that even though I'm hearing the recording they put out. I'll never have a chance to hear them live. And I mean live in the sense that I'll never be able to listen to them in their peak. That just is unfair, and not that there isn't great bands to hear now. I mean you could certainly make a case for many of the current bands, but none of them are really revolutionary. None of them are scaring the hell of out people with their sounds, or their ideas. Just not the same, and let's be honest it'll never happen again.

Sorry for these long paragraphs, I have this nervous energy going tonight. Should be a long weekend. It's been a year, this Saturday. I really don't want to start thinking about it. Because I know she's not thinking about it.

Anyway, I also bought the newest Weezer album this week. I like every song except for that rap number they tried to sneak past. It's a sad state when a band can include a song like that, and it's just another genre variation in the album. And not that I hate it, or that I'm going to boycott that album, or hell even say I don't like the album. Because I DO like the album, and it just goes to show how we've all assimilated. So fine. I really only have two options. Start writing and recording my own songs in hope people will agree with me, and make me rich and famous. OR, listen to RS top 500 albums, and bitch and moan about the state of popular music
hmmm, goodnight friend

Stats

Album: Raw Power
Artist: The Stooges
Year: 1973
My Favorite Song: Search and Destroy
Next Up: Talking Heads

Younger Than Yesterday

Rolling Stone Rank: 124

Hey, how's it going? Sorry I haven't written on here in awhile. But, let's be honest, the only reason I started this was as a way to motivate myself to work out. I'm happy to report that I don't need that extra motivation. In fact, and I'm sorry to report this, I've started listening to podcast while I exercise. You can thank Abdalla for that one, but I must say it works pretty well. I think because I've moved past the stage where I'm running during a song, and take the next song off. I'm at the point now where I can continuously do something for the entirety of the workout, so I need something that can keep my attention. It was basically a perfect storm of Abdalla telling me about it, him and Chris bugging me to listen to the BS report, and the return of Mr. Tony to the radio. Which, on another note, has just been fantastic. I really wish everyone in the world could listen to that show, because he's so damn entertaining.

Well, anyways, I did listen to this Byrds album awhile back, just haven't had time to discuss it until now. It seems like every night I'm just too exhausted to do anything, especially to think about dissecting a complicated album. Nevertheless, I did like this album. RS is right, it's sad what was happening to the band while they were compiling this album, and it just goes to show how amazing bands like The Stones and were. By that I mean bands that didn't break up, didn't go crazy with power, etc. Oh also, it's never good IMO when the best song on your album is a cover of another dude's great song. case in point, My Back Pages. later

Stats

Album: Younger Than Yesterday
Artist: The Byrds
Year: 1967
My Favorite Song: My Pack Pages
Next Up: Stooges

Catch a Fire

Rolling Stone Rank: 123

The album that introduced America to Bob Marley and his Whalers. Now, when I think of Bob Marley, for whatever reason, I think of the happy-go-lucky form of reggae, so this album kind of blew me out of the water. Lots of angst, pent up aggression, and passion just poured out of the record. I really enjoyed the edginess, and I can see how it caught the public's attention, really great stuff. Thoughts?

Stats

Album: Catch a Fire
Artist: Bob Marley and Whalers
Year: 1973
My Favorite Song: Concrete Jungle
Next Up: more Byrds

Pearl

Rolling Stone Rank: 122

Fantastic album, totally underrated. This album should most definitely be in the top 100. Joplin conveys so much in her voice, its impossible not to be moved. On a completely unrelated note, this week's SNL was probably the best one of the season. Much more sketches with storylines instead of the old crap where they make awkward stares at each other. Although while it may have been the funniest episode, Shakira is just god-awful. And on that note, goodnight!

Stats

Album: Pearl
Artist: Janis Joplin
Year: 1971
My Favorite Song: Me and Bobby McGee
Next Up: Marley

Moby Grape

Rolling Stone Rank: 121

Good album, and another album that I had never heard of before this list. I always like finding artists this way, its an interesting way to listen to them because I immediately compare them to all the bands and music I know from that era. For most of the music that I'm listening to on this list, it's more of a re-introduction to albums that I already love. Listening to stuff like this is finding the hidden gems in eras I thought I knew pretty well, and I guess that's the great part about music. Even now, as most people can attest, if you're current on music and pay attention to all the right sources, you'll still find some bands that slip through the cracks.

Stats

Album: Moby Grape
Artist: Moby Grape
Year: 1967
My Favorite Song: Changes
Next Up: Janis!

Raising Hell

Rolling Stone Rank: 120

Yeah, this wasn't nearly as bad as Public Enemy. It was even entertaining at some points, not that I want to start a whole East Coast-West Coast thing...Anyway it wasn't that bad, Jam Master Jay may be the best part of the trio, all the cuts and samples were put together in a really smooth way. Oh, also, this was a Rick Rubin produced album, not sure if he had the ZZ Top beard yet, but he sure can churn out the hits

Stats

Album: Raising Hell
Artist: Run-DMC
Year: 1986
My Favorite Song: Tricky
Next Up: Moby Grape

The Harder They Come

Rolling Stone Rank: 119

This was a lot of fun to listen to, the entire soundtrack really encompassed the sounds of the island nation. Like many other times, it was the Gimme Gimme's that introduced the title track to me, only I didn't know it at the time. One more post to go, in what is becoming an all-to-familiar multiplepost saturday...

Stats

Album: The Harder They Come
Artist: Various Artists (Though most of it was Jimmy Cliff)
Year: 1973
My Favorite Song: The Harder They Come
Next Up: Run-DMC

Stand!

Rolling Stone Rank: 118

Sorry I haven't written in awhile, had our last football game of the season last night. Thank god. it was our 4th game in 3 straight weeks, so I'm really really glad that I have an extra day off to recover from the season. Although, when I really think about it, most schools have a much more rigorous schedule, but still. 4 games in 4 weeks.

Really surprised that an album this good was not higher up. In fact, you could make the argument that this is Sly's best album. Your thoughts?

Stats

Album: Stand
Artist: Sly and Family Stone
Year: 1969
My Favorite Song: Everyday People
Next Up: The Harder They Come

Sweetheart of the Rodeo

Rolling Stone Rank: 117

Still on Glee, it's just, show me a high school that sings that anywhere near the voices that these kids sing at. Would it be so terrible to have a more realistic sound? I dunno, maybe I'm just being picky. Oh, y'know what else, that stutter girl, only stutters on the beginning of her sentence, not sure how i fell about that.

Well, The Byrds do a pretty fantastic job with country rock. It was fun to listen to, not exactly an emotional experience, but great music and lots of fun.

Stats

Album: Sweetheart of the Rodeo
Artist: The Byrds
Year: 1968
My Favorite Song: One Hundred Years From Now
Next Up: Sly and Family Stone

At Last!

Rolling Stone Rank: 116

I'm on to Glee, an interesting show to say the least. I think people are excited about this show, because it's about a show choir. But I don't think the show is all that great, it's not that funny, and the music is disappointing. I understand that it's exciting to hear popular songs sung a cappella, but the sound it just so overproduced, meh.

Anyway, back to back heartbreak albums. Lots of blues and soul on this one, a great album that brings together the glory days of the Chess recording studio. I had never listened to any of her other songs, other than At Last, and I was really surprised at her performance in all of them. Lots of energy pumping throughout the entire album, she never takes a song off. Thoughts?

Stats

Album: At Last!
Artist: Etta James
Year: 1961
My Favorite Song: ummm, At Last!
Next Up: Byrds

Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs

Rolling Stone Rank: 115

On a side note, I'm watching The Good Wife right now. It's pretty good, but that's another post...

I can't figure out how this album didn't crack the top 100 in Rolling Stone's eyes. In my opinion, it should be in the top 20, maybe even the top 10. Yes I know, the album wasn't groundbreaking. It wasn't an innovative new style, or the invention of a new genre. But I'll tell you what it was, it was the blues perfect. It was a man bearing his soul for an entire album. This was the first time Eric stepped behind the mic, and he did a fantastic job.
I really could listen to this album for the rest of my life, it's such a great emotional journey that Mr. Clapton takes you on. Oh yeah, and the guitar play between him ad Duane Allman is phenomenal. A must-listen for anybody and everybody.

Stats

Album:Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs
Artist: Derek and the Dominos
Year: 1970
My Favorite Song: Layla
Next Up: Etta James

Out of Our Head

Rolling Stone Rank: 114

Great album, probably because it's got No Satisfaction on it. Ahhh, the riff. And depending on how you look at it, either a large step towards perfect rock and roll, or one step back for popular music. You decide. Loved every song on the album, except for Good Times which sounded too doowop for me. Night!

Stats

Album:Out of Our Head
Artist: The Rolling Stones
Year: 1965
My Favorite Song: (I Can't Get No) Satisfaction
Next Up: Derek and the Dominoes, awesome!

The Who Sell Out

Rolling Stone Rank: 113

The Who's first attempt at a concept album, and a pretty damn entertaining job. Not sure how I Can See For Miles fits in with the idea, but it works for me. Night!

Stats

Album: The Who Sells Out
Artist: The Who
Year: 1967
My Favorite Song: I Can See For Miles
Next Up: Stones

Disraeli Gears

Rolling Stone Rank: 112

Cream was a little more pop-oriented in this album, while still holding on to their blues roots. I really liked Sunshine of Your Love, it made the album. On to another post.

Stats

Album: Disraeli Gears
Artist: Cream
Year: 1967
My Favorite Song: Sunshine of Your Love
Next Up: The Who

Court and Spark

Rolling Stone Rank: 111

Good album, but the stripped down, bare-bones, raw emotion that she put forth in his first entry on this list. It was a smooth mix and jazz and rock, played with jazz fusion band backing her. A little more upbeat than her earlier album, although she was most likely in a better place in her life. Anyway, sorry I haven't written in awhile, what with school starting up and all. Things have been pretty hectic, oh plus the start of TV is always exciting. laterbye

Stats

Album: Court and Spark
Artist: Joni Mitchell
Year: 1974
My Favorite Song: Help Me
Next Up: Cream

The Bends

Rolling Stone Rank: 110

Couldn't agree more with the RS review. For all the shaping that Nirvana did for the early 90s, Radiohead set the tone for the rest of the decade. I really like the album, it was a lot of fun to listen to, great music.

Just finished watching Cadillac records, loved it. Even Beyonce, for those who don't know I'm not her biggest fan, was bearable in her role of Etta James. They seemed to stay pretty accurate to history, and did a good job of portraying the personalities involved. No idea why they left out the other Chess brother, but maybe he wasn't as involved as I thought. Hated that the movie ended with a rap song, and that the credits rolled to a Beyonce song, but other than that I really enjoyed it. Well, It's about that time. Night!

Stats

Album: The Bends
Artist: Radiohead
Year: 1995
My Favorite Song: Lame to pick the title track...but I am
Next Up: Joni Mitchell, it'll be tough to top Blue

Loaded

Rolling Stone Rank: 109

This has definitely been one of the more impressive bands and records that I've heard. I might say the highlight so far of the next 100. Before I started listening to these, I didn't quite understand why the message board posters were so adamant about this band. And to be honest, even though I liked the first album, This one was truly great. It was completely written by Lou Reed, although according to RS he left the band just before the record was completed. Neat fact, the album was called Loaded because record executives wanted them to make an album loaded with hits.

Stats

Album: Loaded
Artist: Velvet Underground
Year: 1970
My Favorite Song: I Found a Reason
Next Up: Radiohead? How did they get here?

Aftermath

Rolling Stone Rank: 108

First Stones' album written entirely by Jagger/Richards, in the previous albums they covered quite a few songs. You can say the same for the Beatles' though so it's not a slight or anything like that. a good collections of songs, a good beginning for their experimentation and their development of their own sound. Hope you like it, I did it.

Stats

Album: Aftermath
Artist: Rolling Stones
Year: 1966
My Favorite Song: Paint it Black
Next Up: Velvet Underground

Hunky Dory

Rolling Stone Rank: 107

A great look into the development of a star, lots of early signs to the genius that would emerge later. A definite must for Bowie fans, but for others its a really interesting listen. You can hear him experimenting, but at the same time trying to stay within the normal bounds of music. The first side of the album has the best songs, I think, with Changes Oh You Pretty Things and Life on Mars. The second side fades a little but, he does back to back tribute songs, one to Bob Dylan and the other to Andy Warhol. They are good, but not great. Anyways, I think you'd like it, happy labor day.

Stats

Album: Hunky Dory
Artist: David Bowie
Year: 1970
My Favorite Song: Life on Mars?
Next Up: Rolling Stones

Portrait of a Legend 1951-1964

Rolling Stone Rank: 106

A fantastic collection, but not really an album. A great listen, I recommend this compilation to anyone and everyone.

Stats

Album: Portrait of a Legend 1951-1964
Artist: Same Cooke
Year: 2003
My Favorite Song: Wonderful World
Next Up: David Bowie

Rocket to Russia

Rolling Stone Rank: 105

Fun album to listen to, RS had a great line calling their tour the "Gospel of Three Chords", not a lot of substantial music, but another giant leap for the development of punk music. One of the first albums that was able to bottle the energy you felt inside CBGB's, and gave listeners all over the county a feeling for what was going on in the New York. The countdown has begun, as far as Justin's last days in the apartment. I wish him well on his journey up north.

Stats

Album: Rocket to Russia
Artist: The Ramones
Year: 1977
My Favorite Song: Love their cover of Do You Wanna Dance?
Next Up: Sam Cooke

Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music

Rolling Stone Rank: 104

Why doesn't this get easier? My friends give me lousy advice, y'know? Or at least it feels like they do. Still up at 3:30, ugh. Anyway, I listened to this album earlier in the week, it's great. Charles has this fantastic and beautiful ability to communicate so much emotion in his voice, it really is an experience, and one that I wish I could have seen live in my life. Not sure that seeing the movie Ray really did it justice.
Well, Goodnight.

Stats

Album: Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music
Artist: Ray Charles
Year: 1962
My Favorite Song: Half as Much
Next Up: Ramones

Sweet Baby James

Rolling Stone Rank: 103

Surprising album, at first listen. I was expecting a nonstop assault of acoustic guitar, singer-songwriter, soft singing, boring songs. Totally the opposite, and totally surprising.

btw, Food Network just went off-air for the night, I had no idea they weren't 24 hours. When they go off, they have this pretty neat graphic that says "good night". That was cool.

Ok, anyways, Fire and Rain, is so awesomely powerful, that it really sets the tone for the entire album. Taylor also plays a fair amount of blues, and even sings to an electric guitar on Steamroller blues. You can tell he's still looking for his voice though, he did a lot of experimenting with style and color throughout the album, like his arrangement of the Stephen Foster classic Oh Susanna.

Neat story about the final song, Suite for 20 G. Taylor didn't have enough songs to finish the album, but the record company had paid him twenty thousand dollars for the album, so he strung a few unfinished songs together, and gave it the appropriate title.

Stats

Album: Sweet Baby James
Artist: James Taylor
Year: 1970
My Favorite Song: Fire and rain
Next Up: Ray Charles

Giant Steps

Rolling Stone Rank: 102

Great listening, and a huge step in the jazz movement of the late 50s. I listened to this one on my way to and from golfing this afternoon, which got me thinking about how much I love the weather we had today. It was a perfect overcast day today. Not cold enough to force long sleeves or pants, but I didn't break out a sweat once today. This is kind of weather that you think of when you're thinking about fall. The kind of weather where at night, you can put on a long sleeve shirt or a sweatshirt, but you're not going to be shivering throughout the night. It's the kind of cold where you can sit hugged to your significant other, without it getting too hot or uncomfortable. Know what I mean? Maybe not, but that's what I think of when it's like this. can't believe that we're getting this in August though...

Stats

Album: Giant Steps
Artist: John Coltrane
Year: 1960
My Favorite Song: Spiral
Next Up: James Taylor

Fresh Cream

Rolling Stone Rank: 101

A great album from an awesome power trio. To be fair, Clapton could take any group to unbelievable heights, but combined with the jazzy drumming of Ginger Baker, and the melodic bass and voice of Jack Bruce. Clapton's playing shines through, he is the focal point of the group. A completely different sound than his big band sound he would conquer later. A wonderful start to the next 100, I Feel Free being a perfect song to start the 100.

Stats

Album: Fresh Cream
Artist: Cream
Year: 1967
My Favorite Song: I Feel Free
Next Up: Coltrane

In The Wee Small Hours

Rolling Stone Rank: 100

Man was this a great album. From beginning to end, this album stays with it's theme. A collection of melancholy anthems, said to be sung by Frank after his breakup from Ava Gardner. But, y'know have you seen Ava Gardner? She's definitely worth an album. Well, Mr. Sinatra, I feel for ya. Actually when you think about the background behind their relationship, you might not be all that empathetic towards the power couple. Ava had come from two previous marriages, and Frank left his famous wife Nancy for their 6 year relationship. I understand that Hollywood relationships are different from normal ones, but it's always a little bit harder to swallow for me. On the other hand, neither married again, so maybe their love was a bit more romantic

Musically, there's a lot to like, a lot to enjoy on this album. If I had a complaint, it would be that there's a bit too much Celeste. It's not my favorite instrument, and I like percussion.

Anyway, I loved it and 100 albums. Too many compilations, but I doubt I could have put together a better list. Could you?

Stats

Album: In The Wee Small Hours
Artist: Frank Sinatra
Year: 1955
My Favorite Song: Glad to Be Unhappy
Next Up: The Next 100

Not Quite 100

Hey all,

No, I'm not through Sinatra yet. I tried three times this weekend. But, well the weekend didn't go the way I thought I would. Anyway the album is emotional, to say the least, and I just haven't been in the mood to get all the way to the end. With school starting though, I know my mind will float back into order. Hey, have a great week.

There's a Riot Goin' On

Rolling Stone Rank: 99

I'm actually pretty nervous about getting to 100. It's hard for me to believe that I'm actually going to finish this first 100. To be honest, I never thought I would get through these. And when I think about it, these albums have been the constant in my life this past year. But more on that when i actually get through 'em.

This is a great groove album. There's a lot of passion in the lyrics and in the music, but what Sly and family do best is laying down that funky R&B. Not only are there some great songs on here, there's a few really good instrumental jams. It's a sound that defined the decade they were written in, and locked Sly and family in with the heart of many music fans.

Interesting fact about the title of the album. The record was originally going to be titled Africa Talks To You, but after the release of Marvin Gaye's What's Going On? the album was retitled There's a Riot Goin' On. The album was billed, and written as a response to Marvin's question.

Stats

Album: There's a Riot Goin' On
Artist: Sly and Family Stone
Year: 1971
My Favorite Song: Family Affair
Next Up: Perfect way to end the top 100- Old Blue Eyes

This Year's Model

Rolling Stone Rank: 98

I like the phrase RS used to describe this album, emotionally explosive. It says a lot about the writing, and the background music for his personal lyrics. This is his first album with the attractions, and their punk rock style shines through on this recording. Personally, I enjoyed the drum fills to songs like Chelsea. A really great album, through and through.

Stats

Album: This Year's Model
Artist: Elvis Costello
Year: 1978
My Favorite Song: No Action
Next Up: Sly and the Family Stone

The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan

Rolling Stone Rank: 97

Back to the old Dylan for this album, back to the folk sound. The weird thing about listening to albums on a ranked list, is that I'm missing the progression of the albums. So that when I hear an album like this, all I can do is keep comparing to the earlier albums I heard, which in fact were later albums in Dylan's career. Which might not be such a big deal, except that Dylan changed his sound and his style so much over the years, he almost sounds like a different artist. Anyways, this album is great, it's classic Dylan. Tell me what you think

Stats

Album: The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan
Artist: Bob Dylan
Year: 1963
My Favorite Song: Pinball Wizard
Next Up: Elvis Costello

Tommy

Rolling Stone Rank: 96

Ummm, wow. I can't believe this album slid all the way down to 96. It's perfect for what an album is, one of the first great concept albums. It most definitely defines what an album is, and what an album should be. My only thought is that the movie, which is not great, weighed pretty heavily on the thoughts of those RS voters. I don't agree though, the album is fantastic, the songs are great, hell there's even an overture.

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Album: Tommy
Artist: The Who
Year: 1969
My Favorite Song: Pinball Wizard
Next Up: Bob Dylan

Green River

Rolling Stone Rank: 95

There's one thing that I always found interesting about CCR sound. Now, when you listen to them, try and picture where this music should be taking place. To me, it's a back country sound. It's a downsouth, homegrown, twangy sound. So guess what? John Fogerty and CCR are California surfers boys. Never spent a day outside of California. Probably doesn't mean much to people who were alive when listening to the albums, because they knew the band. But for people in my generation, well I just think it's pretty impressive that they nailed that sound to a T. What do you think?

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Album: Green River
Artist: Creedence Clearwater Revival
Year: 1960
My Favorite Song: Bad Moon
Next Up: The Who

Bitches Brew

Rolling Stone Rank: 94

wow, this was a great album. I'm surprised it's this far down the list, given its unique sound. Take a listen to it and let me know what you think. The blend of jazz and rock, electric and acoustic is beautiful.

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Album: Bitches Brew
Artist: Miles David
Year: 1970
My Favorite Song: Bitches Brew
Next Up: CCR

Sign 'o' the Times

Rolling Stone Rank: 93

What hurt this album for me, is that I listened to Purple Rain not that long ago. I really like Purple Rain, and I don't really think this album compares. What is very evident is that Prince was all alone in this venture. It lacks the collaborative sound of his previous albums. That being said, what he excels at in this recording is the new age, funky sound. Again, there is a drum machine throughout the album, which I don't like, but it defines and characterises Prince's sound.

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Album: Sign 'o' the Times
Artist: Prince
Year: 1987
My Favorite Song: If I Was Your Girlfriend
Next Up: Bitches Brew

20 Golden Greats

Rolling Stone Rank: 92

I guess it was good they got Buddy Holly on this list, although the album is a compilation of his early works, and not a single representation of a recording session, or a singular point in his career. It kind of spans his entire career, which if you had never heard Buddy Holly before, would be a great introduction to the beginnings of Rock and Roll. Still, compilation-not an album. lame.

Stats

Album: 20 Golden Greats
Artist: Buddy Holly
Year: 1978
My Favorite Song: Peggy Sue
Next Up: Prince

Goodbye Yellow Brick Road

Rolling Stone Rank: 91

A fun double album that has something for everybody. If you want some grand-electric sounds, check out Funeral for a Friend. More of a classic Elton fan, then Bennie and the Jets and Candle in the Wind are right up your alley. Feeling more like some honkytonk rawk, then Saturday Nights' Alright for Fighting will get you going.

A great double album that covers all the musical bases in John's repertoire. In the RS article, they quote John comparing this album to the Beatles' White. Not sure I'd go that far, but I did enjoy it. If I had one complaint, it's Jamaica Jerk-Off. Just didn't like it, didn't sound authentic at all. Side Note: It's my 100th post. Yah

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Album: Goodbye Yellow Brick Road
Artist: Elton John
Year: 1973
My Favorite Song: Saturday Night's Alright For Fighting
Next Up: Buddy Holly

Talking Book

Rolling Stone Rank: 90

Fantastic. These Wonder albums just keep getting better and better. I'm pretty sure that I can say Stevie Wonder has been the best surprise I've gotten while listening to these albums. His soul and R&B sound is fantastic. Not being a listening to funk and R&B before this list, my eyes have been opened to a new sound. And yeah, it makes me appreciate rap a bit more.
Stevie has this unique ability to make his depressing, self-deprecating songs, have this twinge of hope and glory around the edge. And he makes his happy songs fell just a little down and dirty. Even though Superstition is the breakout hit from this album, it actually is a little bit out of place from the rest of the album. It's in the perfect spot though, 6th song out 10. Just when he's set a mood, in comes Superstition to break it up and set up the the drive towards the fantastic finisher, I Believe.

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Album: Talking Book
Artist: Stevie Wonder
Year: 1972
My Favorite Song: Blame it On the Sun
Next Up: Elton John

Dusty in Memphis

Rolling Stone Rank: 89

I didn't hate it, but it isn't staying on the ipod for that long. Lots of songs and covers, mostly hit or miss for me. I liked some of the other female songwriters better than her. Her voice didn't provide the soul and passion that I had heard it did. Interesting fact written on the RS page. She was so nervous about her recording sessions in Memphis that they couldn't use any of the vocals she laid down there. All of her vocals were recorded in New York. So, not much Dusty in Springfield, but Dusty in New York. meh.

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Album: Dusty in Memphis
Artist: Dusty Springfield
Year: 1969
My Favorite Song: Son of Preacher Man
Next Up: Back to Stevie =)

At Folsom Prison

Rolling Stone Rank: 88

If Johnny Cash is your style, then this is an album for you. Seeing the movie, Walk The Line, made this album a whole lot better. Mostly because the whole movie takes place as a memory before taking the stage for this very concert. It was pretty neat to hear his banter in between songs, you can tell he really felt relaxed and at ease towards the end of his career. Oh, and also the duet with June Carter towards the end of the album is fantastic. Totally worth the price admission, their chemistry is fantastic.

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Album: At Folsom Prison
Artist: Johnny Cash
Year: 1968
My Favorite Song: Jackson
Next Up: Dusty Sringfield

The Wall

Rolling Stone Rank: 87
One of the better put together albums on the entire list, I'm stunned this is all the way down in the 80's. For more banter, look at the comment section of the RS page. It's a really chill album, even the "harder" songs still just seem to flow on by. Thoughts?

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Album: The Wall
Artist: Pink Floyd
Year: 1979
My Favorite Song: Hey You
Next Up: The Man in Black

Let It Be

Rolling Stone Rank: 86

This is Beatles fan Brian writing this post. It's hard not to. It's the music I grew up on. It's the music I put on when I'm feeling terrible, it's the music I put on when I'm feeling great. It's the music that I always leave on my ipod, even though I only have a nano and I have to change music daily to change the appropriate amount of music.
Even though the Beatles were fighting a ridiculous amount, they still made unbelievably great music. Let It Be, one of the better songs Paul has ever written, in my opinion brings together the entire crazy album.
You know what's weird? I've defended the Beatles twice this weekend to people who've started on their ramblings of hate. Where is the backlash coming from? And how can you make that argument at all? ugh, I dunno, anyway what are your thoughts on the album or on the band?

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Album: Let It Be
Artist: The Beatles
Year: 1970
My Favorite Song: Two of Us
Next Up: The Wall

Born in the U.S.A.

Rolling Stone Rank: 85

Well, I'll say this. It was fun to run to, apart from that it all just sounds like the same song to me. And by that I mean the music doesn't vary too much throughout the album. Now, that being said, there are obviously many different songs, but this is due to Bruce's great lyrical writing ability. Not so much the E-Street Band's ability to find new and different sounding grooves. So there it is, I'm not the biggest Boss fan. And yes, I know that part of the greatness of Bruce is the social and political change he was calling for. Singing for the common man. I wasn't born when this came out, so I can't quite relate. Interesting fact, the title song was an anti-war song, that nobody seemed to notice. Any time I hear the song, I can't help but think of that scene in Canadian Bacon. Just classic...
Please to enjoy:

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Album: Born in the U.S.A.
Artist: Bruce Springsteen
Year: 1984
My Favorite Song: Dancing in the Dark
Next Up: Let It Be

Lady Soul

Rolling Stone Rank: 84

Great album. The title pretty much nails it on the head. I'm pretty sure there's no way that you could not find a song on this album to like. Whether it's the classic "You Make Me Feel" or the funky "People Get Ready", you should be able to find one song to get your groove on. If there's a song I don't agree with, It's her interpretation of "Groovin'". It's probably because I know the original so well. What do you think? Anyway the original Diva truly puts her best foot forward in this album, I think you'll really enjoy it.

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Album: Lady Soul
Artist: Aretha Franklin
Year: 1968
My Favorite Song: You Make Me Feel
Next Up: Bruce!

I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You

Rolling Stone Rank: 83

Her first album, see my next post for Aretha thoughts. The only note-worthy part of this album, is Respect. You know it, you love it, You probably have no idea what the middle part of the lyrics are, but you can spell RESPECT. Oh, also, this was her first album. So, enjoy (although I think I like Lady Soul better)

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Album: I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You
Artist: Aretha Franklin
Year: 1967
My Favorite Song: Respect
Next Up: Lady Soul

Axis: Bold As Love

Rolling Stone Rank: 82

Hendrix is not for the faint of heart. If you like guitar, and like blues, then Jimi is a dream come true. He takes you on a musical journey, that you could spend hours upon hours enveloped in. On the other hand, if you are not a fan of the electric guitar then Jimi Hendrix will not be anything close to a pleasant experience. I don't mean to be crude by that, I just mean to say that if you don't appreciate the sounds, I can understand why you wouldn't be interested in something like this. Tell me what you think?

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Album: Axis: Bold As Love
Artist: Jimi Hendrix
Year: 1968
My Favorite Song: Little Wing
Next Up: Back-To-Back Aretha

Graceland

Rolling Stone Rank: 81

Such a different sound and style the Paul Simon brought the world in 1986. Mainstream America, in particular, was blown away by the African beats and melodies created by Paul and Black Ladysmith Mambazo. The flowing style fit in perfectly with Simon's calm and soothing style.

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Album: Graceland
Artist: Paul Simon
Year: 1986
My Favorite Song: Graceland
Next Up: Jimi

Odessey and Oracle

Rolling Stone Rank: 80

Well, it certainly has been awhile since I posted here. So, I'm sorry to all of my avid fans who can't wait to read my boring reviews of albums nobody listens to anymore.
So, yeah this past week I was in the big city. And just because I wasn't posting, doesn't mean I wasn't listening. So..here they come in rapid fire.

Odessey and Oracle was a beautiful album. I like the way RS defined the recording. Combining the sonic exploration of The Beatles, with the raw sound of The Stones. Also, I had no idea Time of the Season was by The Zombies. Not that I, or you really, would have ever heard of the Zombies. They broke up 2 weeks after they finished recording. I would recommend this album, take a listen I think you'll be pleasantly surprised.

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Album: Odessey and Oracle
Artist: The Zombie
Year: 1969
My Favorite Song: Care of Cell 44
Next Up: Going to Graceland

Star Time

Rolling Stone Rank: 79

Whattup people? There are 71 songs in this thing. 71, that's ummm alot. So I'll be honest here for a moment. I didn't get through the whole thing, but it'll be something I can listen to for the next few weeks. James is the man, and it shows in every single one of the songs on this compilation. He wouldn't dare phoning it in, from the half that I listened to, it was fantastic. That's another thing, it's a compilation, so not really appropriate for the list. Still, it's tough to not include this comprehensive of an album. How do you feel about it?

Off to bed, the summer of Brian seems to be going well. For the first time ever I'm the weight that listed on my driver's licence. Crazy. Anyway it's almost over, I hope I can make it through the homestretch. Very excited for NASCAR this weekend (channeling my inner redneck...)

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Album: Star Time
Artist: James Brown
Year: 1991
My Favorite Song:
Next Up: The Zombies

Harvest

Rolling Stone Rank: 78

Actually, I think I liked After The Gold Rush better. I mean, this is a better representation of the genre that would follow, but I think the music is better on his other album. That being said, Harvest was Neil's only #1 hit, so obviously some people out there must have liked it. My mother, for one, would play this album constantly when I was growing up. And man did she hate hearing his other stuff, she was almost appalled by Rockin in the Free World. Overall though, it's good music that has a lot of feeling behind it.

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Album: Harvest
Artist: Neil Young
Year: 1972
My Favorite Song: A Man Needs A Maid
Next Up: James Brown