Bringing It All Back Home

Rolling Stone Rank: 31

Another Dylan album in the top 50.  I understand why it wasn't higher, but yet I can see why Stone rated it as high as it did.  I found nothing wrong with the music, but it didn't really hit me as greatness.  I invite criticism, because I really have nothing good or bad to say about it.  Solid blues from the man, and yet there were times when the classic "Dylan whine" just gets on your nerves.  

Overall though, its Dylan at his core.  If you like him, it's another album to put on the shelf.  If you dislike him, you find another reason to stay away.  Don't like this one form your opinion, but it's worth a listen.

Stats

Album: Bringing It All Back Home

Artist: Bob Dylan

Year: 1965

My Favorite Song: Subterranean Homesick Blues

Tomorrow: The Stones

Blue

Rolling Stone Rank:30

Hello again, my computer was down again for a few days.  So, sorry to my hundreds of fans I'm sure you were on the edge of your seat.  Just kidding.  In case your reading this, I know that I'm the only one that reads these things, which is fine with me. 

The album I listened to a few days ago was Joni Mitchell's Blue.  Fantastic.  As I've said many times, the music that I respect most is the one that comes from the heart.  For me, it's passion.  That's the only thing that matters.  It doesn't matter the genre, doesn't matter the style, or really the era.  If you can feel that passion, that raw emotion, then you can really connect to an artist and to the music.

It's one of the reasons that I don't like rap music as much as other kinds.  I mean, yes, there are exceptions, from what I've heard about Kanye's new album, it's filled with emotion.  And while it's not the style people aren't used to, it's the emotion that draws you in.  The main problem I have with most rap is that I feel like the artist could care less about what he/she is doing.  They could care less about what they're saying, it's just a total turn off for me.  

Anyways, back to Blue.  I loved it.  It wasn't great to exercises to, but I listen to it later in the car, and it really came alive.  The emotion just pours out of every single song.  And so simplistic, so bare bones, I really enjoyed it.  Anyways, give it a listen.  Tell me what you think.

Stats

Album: Blue

Artist: Joni Mitchell

Year: 1971

Favorite Song: A Case of You

Tomorrow: Dylan

Led Zeppelin

Rollins Stone Rank: 29

Hello faithful reader(s). As you may or may not know, my personal life has had some major changes in the past few weeks. Anyways, I thought this would be a good time to get back to listening to the music that I love. Something about wanting something in my life to stay great, while rest of it falls apart. ok, so. moving on.

I totally agree with the Rolling Stone writer on this one. Listening to this album was like watching Jordan at UNC. Wow, you knew if was great, and yeah they won some games, but you had no idea he would be that good. Same thoughts on these boys from England. The first thing that jumps out at you is "wow, Robert Plant has a ridiculous voice". His range and emotion shine though on this album, almost drowning out the rest of the band.

Essentially the album is signature blues. The first few songs fool you with some pretty heavy guitar riffs, but by You Shook Me you can tell the albums true spirit It has all the usual aspects you would expect. Slow moving, blues progressions, elongated guitar solos, with little to no chord change underneath. I love the guttural screams that Plant gives throughout the album, most notably in Dazed and Confused and Communication Breakdown.

Overall, a great listen. I would obviously recommend this to anyone . It would be great to listen to all the Zeppelin albums chronologically. They are a great example of a band that kept getting better with each successive album.  But, that's not my game.

That's it for me, a short one to get this back up and running again. Oh yeah, Happy Holidays

Stats:

Album: Led Zeppelin

Artist: Led Zeppelin

Year: 1969

My Favorite Song: You Shook Me

Tomorrow: Joni

Who's Next

Rolling Stone Rank: 28

Last day before work starts, so expect the frequency of these post to drop off, but I hope to continue to write even if no one reads. I have kind of enjoyed writing about all the music that I'm listening to, in fact today I went back and read some of the earlier posts. quality. Anyways, the summer didn't go exactly as planned, but I definitely enjoyed it. btw, what a great way to end the summer.

Who's Next, the epic album that followed Tommy. Townshends use of synthesizers really makes the album unique from the rest of the music coming out of the rock genre at the time. completely a studio album, which I love, Who's Next starts off with a bang in Baba O'Riley. Most of the songs in the album vary between prog rock, acoustic, or straight rock. But nothing tops the closing song of the album. One of the greatest songs ever written, Won't Get Fooled Again, really brings the album together.

But then it got used in a tv show.... please to enjoy:

Take some time, take a listen, post your thoughts.

Stats:

Album: Who's Next
Artist: The Who
Year: 1971
My Favorite Song: Behind Blue Eyes
Tomorrow: Led Zeppelin

King of the Delta Blues Singers Vol. 1

Rolling Stone Rank: 27

Not much to say about this album, it is really great but it is in the vane of all the other compilations that I have listened to thus far. It's not really the best of listening, but it's truly fascinating tho hear the beginnings of Rock and Roll.

Also, the myths surrounding Robert Johnson are extremely captivating. All the stories revolve around a meeting between Johnson and The Devil. As legend has it, he sold his soul for his musical talent. I can't remember exactly where I read it, but there was this first-hand account of somebody who knew Johnson before and after his "transformation". This type of story-telling is pretty common for the blues genre, people go ape over this kind of stuff.

Anyway, I love the album, but I wouldn't recommend it for a casual fan. The sound just doesn't translate well to 2008. But for you music majors, or blues fans its a great album to have. It shows the beginning of blues, and further along the line, rock.

Take some time, take a listen, post your thoughts.

Stats:

Album: King of the Delta Blues Singers Vol. 1
Artist: Robert Johnson
Year: 1961
My Favorite Song: Hellhound on my Trail
Tomorrow: The Who

The Joshua Tree

Rolling Stone Rank: 26

Going to make this review short as well. Sorry to loyal readers. My thought on U2 is that they are a great band, Bono is a great singer. They are very good at evoking emotion, and being socially relevant. They are very good taking up a cause. But, i don't think they are very good at writing original music. Don't get me wrong, Joshua Tree was very very entertaining to listen to. But as a music major, there was one major aspect that upset me. The endless subdivision this band seems to employ, I couldn't get over it.

Whether it's the bass playing 8th notes, or the rhythm guitar hammering out 16th notes. I just couldn't take it every song. I get that it moves the music along, i get that it keeps the music full of energy. I just can't take it all the time. Even Exit, what I thought was their hardcore song, went back to 8th note subdivision in the chorus.

It really took away with how good this album ought to be. I know that I should keep an open mind, but that really ruined that album for me. I'm going to give another listen in the next few days, trying to listen to it fresh and see if that does anything for me.

So all that being said, the hits sound great. That are fantastic at writing a hit song, a song that builds throughout until it hits a peak towards the end. Really enjoyable, and great to work out to, but it just got tedious.

Take some time, take a listen, post your thoughts.

Stats:

Album: the Joshua Tree
Artist: U2
Year: 1987
My Favorite Song: I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For
Tomorrow: Robert Johnson

Rumours

Rolling Stone Rank: 25

Quite an interesting album this was. Fleetwood Mac blends the California polished sound with an R&B down and dirty style. They almost seem to alternate every song between these two competing styles. But then again, they alternated songwriters on nearly every song, except The Chain which they all wrote.

Another captivating aspect of this album was the emotional state that the band members were in while composing the album. Check this out: Mick was in the middle of his divorce. John and Christine got divorced during the album. Lindsey and Stevie (Lindsey is the guy, Stevie is the girl) also broke up during the making of this album. This of course led to all the band writing songs about the break-ups of their significant other, who were in the band (hence the title of the album, Rumours. You see they all thought the others' were spreading rumours about them....oh you get it? OK.) But after the album was done, they all kind of realized that the highly emotional writing had helped them to get through their tough times, and oh yeah, there was the great album as a record of their recovery.

So given that background, it's easy to hear the tension throughout the album, hard to explain but you definitely feel that raw energy running throughout the album, emotionally charged would also be a good way to describe the aesthetic. And of course you can hear a mature Nicks ready to move on, her voice and writing are different from the rest of the band, you get the sense she a rising star in the making.

Overall, I liked the album. I liked the style they have, the songs vary just enough to keep me interested, but they don't stray too much from their California roots(Think pre-Walsh Eagles). If there is one problem with their sound, it's that I don't think they every resolve the tension built throughout the entire album. For me, it just ended, keeping me in the edge of my seat. I just want a rock out song somewhere in there. But then if it did, I'm sure I'd complain that "it all sounded great except for that one lazy rock out song". So let's just agree to disagree, Rachel Ray is on TV which is making me hungry.

Take some time, take a listen, post your thoughts.

Stats:

Album: Rumours
Artist: Fleetwood Mac
Year: 1977
My Favorite Song: The Chain
Tomorrow: U2

Live at the Apollo

Rolling Stone Rank: 24

I agree with the Rolling Stone reviewer. This is quite possibly the best live album ever made. Listening to Brown makes you understand the power he has over an audience. They hang on his every word. And, oh yeah, there is some great music on this album. It was fun to listen to, to be there with James, listening to him screaming and singing. You can visualize the way that Brown moved around the stage, optimizing the 'front man' persona that he cultivated so well. I think it's a must-listen for any music lover.

What's that? You need a visual? You can't take my words, all right, here's a clip:

Take some time, take a listen, post your thoughts.

Stats:

Album: Live at the Apollo
Artist: James Brown
Year: 1963
My Favorite Song: Lost Someone (10 minute epic)
Tomorrow: Fleetwood Mac

Innervisions

Rolling Stone Rank: 23

Wonder nails it. He nails the American landscape with his style of R&B. His voice is so young though, that I felt like i was listening to the ramblings of 20 year old. Not to say that I didn't enjoy the music, there were times when, because he was so young, I had trouble taking what he said seriously. His songs did a great job to get me moving, and to get my mind moving. The song Living for the City is a great description of life for minorities at the time.

His riffs had me humming, and of course since I know how his life turned out I have a great respect for these early songs in his career. Anyways, these song show a great artist ready to bust out. Songs that get right under your skin, and you can't help but love them.

Take some time, take a listen, post your thoughts.

Stats:

Album: Innervisions
Artist: Stevie Wonder
Year: 1973
My Favorite Song: Higher Ground
Tomorrow: James Brown

Plastic Ono Band

Rolling Stone Rank: 22

Well, now we're into some serious music. I loved this album, and maybe it's because I saw Chapter 27 a few days ago, the story of Mark Chapman, but it really made me appreciate John just a little bit more. It's a far far far cry from his Beatles days, and in fact he spends most of Mother actually screaming and crying. Sardonic, sarcastic, honest, and beautiful. The album takes on a variety of subjects, but most of them are just an extension of Lennon, the whole thing is a sort of musical therapy. There are many times through the album that it sounds like he is doing a spot-on Kurt Cobain impression. Now, i know that sounds crazy to some, but to me it makes perfect. I, like most my age, have a sort of backwards way of looking at things. But doing things like listening to this album helps me orient myself historically.

One more thing I'd like to point out to any budding young songwriters out there. There seems to be a pattern in these top albums. Revealing your soul to a large group of people sounds like the perfect way to make a hit record. it's not a gimmick either, people like hearing about the problems of other, people enjoy the suffering it helps us to relate. It helps us to connect, and that's the goal isn't it? To connect with people at an auditory level?

Whatever the goal was, John figured it out. He figured a way to use his music as a message, while still being an entertainer. He connected with me, I hope he does the same for you.

Take some time, take a listen, post your thoughts.

Stats:

Album: Plastic Ono Band
Artist: John Lennon
Year: 1970
My Favorite Song: Working Class Hero
Tomorrow: Stevie Wonder

The Great Twenty-Eight

Rolling Stone Rank: 21

The Great Twenty-Eight is a collection of singles made by Chuck Berry between the years of 1955-1965. It, like the Elvis collection I listen to awhile back. Actually it's essentially the same thing. So, while it's not really an album, I still liked listening to all of Berry's hits. Many of them sound similar to each other, they all mostly use that "boogie' style. That being said, they all are different and they all represent a slice of life for Chuck Berry. It's great to hear the beginnings of rock and roll, Maybellene is possibly one the best songs Berry ever wrote, we all know Johnny B. Goode, and many know the rock classic Roll Over Beethoven.

One more thing I like to think about while listening to these tunes. A thing that I don't talk about too much, but it is another transcendent thing about music. The Beatles covered Roll Over Beethoven because they wanted to emulate the sound that Chuck Berry was creating. Back in the 60's, there wasn't email, or video streaming, or anything like that. So, its fair to say that all those four guys in Liverpool had were these recordings. These songs shaped the minds of some of the greatest musicians ever, and (here's the neat part) I am listening to these exact same songs. The exact same way (OK, i was listening on my ipod, but you get the idea). I think that is one of the great parts of music, bringing people together.

Take some time, take a listen, post your thoughts.
(Here's the Beatles' Roll Over Beethoven)

Stats:

Album: The Great Twenty-Eight
Artist: Chuck Berry
Year: 1955-65
My Favorite Song: Maybellene
Tomorrow: Lennon

Thriller

Rolling Stone Rank: 20

Second post in August. So, on the plane rides to and from LV i had a lot of time on my hands. With this free time I listened to some of the albums on my list, so these next few posts will be in rapid fire variety. I apologize to my readers that actually enjoy some time to think between posts. But, y'know gotta keep movin' on. So here are my thoughts on Thriller:

Great album, Jackson's voice is so unique and recognizable, it's impossible not to incorporate all that I know about him now into the listening experience. I know some of this comes from the book i just finished, Blink, but it's hard to separate the man from the music. The style of the album does a good job with that, though. Since most of the songs are very reliant on synthesizers and beat machines, it brings me back to a certain frame of mind. Although to be fair, I don't have an actual time to go back to, since the album was released before I was born. Nevertheless, the album represents something nostalgic to my mind, even if it's not real.

OK so beyond that, the album is full of pop and entertainment. While I won't say that I was totally impressed with the quality of music, I will say that I was dancing in my seat to the tunes. Jackson, and Quincy Jones of course, put together a fantastic album containing every single style imaginable. It was built to sell singles and to merchandise, but in the process it became a part of the American music landscape.

Take some time, take a listen, post your thoughts.

Stats:

Album: Thriller
Artist: Michael Jackson
Year: 1982
My Favorite Song: Billie Jean
Tomorrow: Chuck Berry

Astral Weeks

Rolling Stone Rank: 19

Hey! First Post in August! What better way to kick off the dog days of summer than with this prolific album. I think we all know and love Van's Brown Eyed Girl, but this album is something different. It really is a window into the soul, something rarely accomplished by the average songwriter. In fact, something that Morrison would not attempt again. For me, growing up the 90's, i relate this album to Weezer's Pinkerton. Both Rivers and Van opened up their heart for the songwriting. Although, I can't really compare the two musical styles. While Weezer is decidedly rock-pop, Morrison creates a folk jazz, almost Celtic style.

A laid-back style, with Morrison exploring the range of his voice, crooning about a variety of topics. And the topics, are mostly love related, although at times it is hard to understand what Morrison is talking about. Either way, the music behind the lyrics are so relaxed and easy that it just seems to right to roll along with the song.

Take some time, take a listen, post your thoughts.

Stats:

Album: Astral Weeks
Artist: Van Morrison
Year: 1968
My Favorite Song: Astral Weeks (Title Track, I know I'm lame)
Tomorrow: Michael

Born To Run

Rolling Stone Rank: 18

What is there to say? Sorry? No, sorry just doesn't cut it. I know you, as my loyal fan base, have been agonizing over the fact that I haven't made a post in quite a while. I'm not going to make cute jokes about, but suffice to say I apologize.

Born to Run, quite an interesting album. At the time it was recorded and released, fantastic. Listing to it now, it sounds...well 70's. Is it the pompousness of it all? The all-too-perfect quality of each song. The flowing and soaring nature of each and every single melody. I just, didn't find that much contrast.

That being said, Bruce nails his genre to the T (or the G rather). If it's your bag, then you will love this album. I mean, love this album. Springsteen is unlike any other artists, it's hard to compare his songs and his music to anything else. Truly unique, his music is an experience in itself. I can see why Boss fans enjoy his lengthy concerts. Can't say I've seen him in person, but I imagine it would be cool.

Take some time, take a listen, post your thoughts.

Stats:

Album: Born To Run
Artist: Bruce Springsteen
Year: 1975
My Favorite Song: Born to Run
Tomorrow: Van Morrison

Nevermind

Rolling Stone Rank: 17

Sorry, I forgot to write about this album when I actually listened to it. So this is about 2 days after the fact. But nevertheless, there isn't much to say about this album that many haven;t said before

Nevermind represents one of the first albums in my life that I spent a large amount of time listening to. Now, I won't claim that I was on forefront of popular music (I was 6 when this album came out). I did fall for it when I reached my teens though.

Just like with Are You Experienced, the performance I appreciate most is the drummer. It is of course Nevermind where I began my life long love affair with the Dave Grohl. And apparently I'm not alone (At the time I thought I had found a diamond in the rough, but later at the first Foo-Fighters concert I went to it became quite obvious that many many others recognized Dave's brilliance.)

Time for bed, but what else is there to say about this prolific record? I guess, my one thought would be that their true sound really comes through on the second side of the album. But c'mon, who doesn't love Smells Like Teen Spirit?

Take some time, take a listen, post your thoughts.

Stats:

Album: Nevermind
Artist: Nirvana
Year: 1991
My Favorite Song: I want to say Lithium...but Smells Like Teen Spirit
Tomorrow: The Boss

Blood on the Tracks

Rolling Stone Rank: 16

Just a thought on exercise here. Being one that never really does, I realize people talk about "feeling the burn", which I can definitely attest to feeling. But then there are people who relish the "good" feeling you get from pushing your body "to the limit". And while I'll grant that I'm not an athlete, I'm not sure I buy that. I mean, yeah there is a moment where you're thinking

All-right, this feels great! It's beautiful outside, the good music is rolling, screw it let's do a second lap around the lake..

but literally seconds later this thought emerges:

God, oh god. Why? My legs are in pain, yes it is nice, and yes the music is good, but this doesn't feel good at all. This feels terrible, fuckin' Cubs....

Oh, like you're surprised I use my hatred for the Cubs as motivation. OK, moving on to good music...

Blood on the Tracks was beautiful, a return to what made Dylan great, and far away from what made him stereotypical and shallow. All acoustic, and with a return to his story-telling nature, Dylan croons mostly about heart-ache and, well, pain.

And of course, this is what draws us in as listeners, or at least what makes me like and appreciate an album. When I can hear the passion in a singers voice I get a sense for the passion that they have for the music. How can I as a fan be expected to be gung-ho for an artists, if they don't seem to be? Well, Dylan returned to this, along with keeping the blues as a large part of his writing.

I'll end with a quote I found on wikipedia (Brian doing some extensive research for this post.....sigh)

Told of the album's lasting popularity, Dylan was later to say (in a radio interview by Mary Travers): "A lot of people tell me they enjoy that album. It's hard for me to relate to that. I mean, it, you know, people enjoying the type of pain, you know?"

I think this is something many artists feel about their music. As if fans are laughing with delight at the terrible misfortunes, and the personal anguish. But we all know this is not what makes music popular among fans, it is that fans relate and identify with the pain that the artists is going through, and the passion that Dylan and others sing with only forms a stronger bond with the listeners.

Take some time, take a listen, post your thoughts.

Stats:

Album: Blood on the Tracks
Artist: Bob Dylan
Year: 1975
My Favorite Song: If You See Her, Say Hello
Tomorrow: Nirvana!

I am only posting this video, because Germany advanced in Euro 2008 today. Please to enjoy:

Are You Experienced?

Rolling Stone Rank: 15

Yes Kim, off the wagon again...

Anyways, I listened to Jimi Hendrix today. What a well put together album, and even though Hendrix may claim that it was not written on drugs, I would disagree. But, Hendrix persists in his lyrics

Take the title track, "Are You Experienced?", in which Hendrix croons: "Not necessarily stoned, but beautiful"

OK, so maybe I'm wrong, but it sure did sound trippppyyy...

Beyond that little squabble with a dead man, I really enjoyed the album, it's another example of why I'm enjoying doing this. Because I had really only listed to five tracks from this album before. Fire, The Wind Cries Mary, Foxy Lady, Hey Joe, and Purple Haze. And there are 12 more tracks on the album!

Hendrix does a great job of making his very produced album sound like its the main stage at Woodstock. Lots of reverb gives the album a big and live sound. Although it's clear that many of the tracks were put through extensive editing. The effect that's created give such a large sound to a band of only three members. Obviously most that is due to the talent of Hendrix and his band members.

Which brings me to the wonderful performance of Mitch Mitchell. Introducing the world to the fusion style of drumming, his style fills all the gaps with, umm well, fills. Damn, that sentence should have worded better. Oh well, anyways, just compare Mitchell to the drumming styles of say, Charlie Watts. Both recognized as good drummers, but entire different ends of the spectrum.

And then there's that Hendrix fellow. Feel free to read other articles written by people much smarter than me.

Experience Hendrix

Greatest Guitarists

And, because I love Youtube:

Take some time, take a listen, post your thoughts.

Stats:

Album: Are You Experienced?
Artist: The Jimi Hendrix Experience
Year: 1967
My Favorite Song: Hey Joe
Tomorrow: More Dylan

Abbey Road

Rolling Stone Rank: 14

Well, Sorry it took so long to get to this album. Even though the readership is low, I feel bad that I wasn't able to keep up with my once-a-day goal. Anyways, with the school year finally over, and summer in full swing I hope that I can get back on the wagon.

So, The Beatles. As Rolling Stone says, this really was their farewell album to the fans. It is so well polished, so well done, just the epitome of what an album should be. Especially the second side.

For those of you unfamiliar of what the "second side" means, well you see before there were compact discs, music was recorded on vinyl records (and later cassette tapes). Obviously on this medium, there is only a certain amount of information that can be stored. But luckily, you could use the opposite side. It's pretty self-expanitory from there.

Well, the second side of Abbey Road may be the best constructed side of an album ever. Beginning with "Here Comes the Sun", the music flows together so well. And of course the last eight (nine if you include "Her Majesty") are known as the Medley. These songs blend in with one another, although they have no unifying theme. But musically, meld together perfectly

This is my favorite Beatles album, and probably the one I enjoy listening to the most. Named after the street and music studio, I think it is The Beatles at their peak. None of the songs are overtly political, all the member of the band were able to collaborate songs. And what is the produc? Pure musical genius. It just goes to show, when people put aside their egos and agendas, great things are born.

Take some time, take a listen, post your thoughts.

Stats:

Album: Abbey Road
Artist: The Beatles
Year: 1969
My Favorite Song: Oh! Darling
Tomorrow: Are You Experienced?

The Velvet Underground and Nico

Rolling Stone Rank: 13

This album was really great to listen to from front to back. I had never done that with this album, up until today, but I really really enjoyed it.

Being the snooty music major that I am, I was able to identify many of the early avant-garde techniques that they were using (i.e. lots of drones, minimalist rhythms etc.). Then I went and researched that album (and The Velvet Underground) a little bit. And it made me even more impressed. Let's get away from the Andy Warhol mystique for a bit, and just talk about the band:

Their sound is so unique and innovative, really a breath of fresh air amongst the....well wait a second. Actually 1967 was a pretty innovative year in itself. The Beatles, The Byrds, Jimi Hendrix, hell even Buffalo Springfield came out in '67. So taking that into account, I don't I need to run with the whole "this was ahead of its time" review. Since I wasn't alive back then and I can't know for sure, maybe it wasn't.

But this album stands on its own. Even without taking into consideration its place in history, it s a great album. Lou Reed's lyrics shine through the cacophony of sound. The velvet (could I have picked a better word, yes. But it's 1:15am) sound of Nico was the perfect counterpoint to Reed's harsh lyrics and dry voice. The guitar is distinct and original, although Sterling Morrison pulls off the blues pretty well in Run Run Run. At first I was annoyed with the "drums"( I call them that because Maureen Tucker, played mostly on the toms and the bass drum on its side with mallets. Not exactly the loud and fast punk style I was expecting) on this album. But that only lasted one or two songs, and after that I was able to see how her playing tied in with the mood the rest of the band was setting for Reed.

And Lastly back to Andy Warhol. Now yes, it is a fair argument that Warhol used his exhibitions to push the Velvets onto the world, and maybe if they didn't have the Warhol celebrity fame they may have faded away like so many other did. And that is true to some extent, but I think when you say that, you really discount the effect that Andy had on this album. No not just the cover design. But also his insistence that Nico (Christa Päffgen) sing with band on a few tunes. i think that her sound really levels off the rest of the album, and make the tracks fit together as whole. Also, i believe, his role of producer influenced the overall sound of the album greatly. While there are many accounts that Warhol actually did nothing, there are some who say that doing nothing and allowing the band to make their own choices was doing something after all. Either way, I like the result.

Take some time, take a listen, post your thoughts.

Stats:

Album: The Velvet Underground and Nico
Artist: The Velvet Underground
Year: 1967
My Favorite Song: Heroin
Tomorrow: More Beatles!

Kind Of Blue

Rolling Stone Rank: 12

Just Incredible. I defy anyone to listen this album and have bad thoughts. It is the essence of cool, and the turning of point of jazz in the 1950s.

If you don't know, I listen to this albums while riding my bike. And let me tell you, this was the best bike ride I've had, now that may have something to do with the weather, but I think a lot of it had to do with the music.

I like Rolling Stone's review of this a lot, so I think it's silly to regurgitate some of the stuff they've written. Because for me to say it sounds amateur.

Anyway, the sound it so laid back, and well cool. Miles' sound is so mellow, but at the same time conveying a wide range of emotions. And of course credit needs to be given to the various other artists playing on this album: Paul Chambers, Jimmy Cobb, Bill Evans, Coltrane and Adderley. And while they all played great, it while Miles' vision that really set the tone (ummm pun intended) for the record.

Take some time, take a listen, post your thoughts.

Stats:

Album: Kind of Blue
Artist: Miles Davis
Year: 1959
My Favorite Song: Freddie Freeloader

The Sun Sessions

Rolling Stone Rank: 11

This is an interesting entry for one of the best albums of all-time, in that it was not really constructed as album. Merely a compilation of the early recordings of Elvis. That being said, it is a fantastic representation of the beginnings of rock and roll. Or rather, the beginnings of the beginnings of rock and roll. The first? Well no, for the first rock recording I turn to Ike Turner and Rocket 88

That doesn't really matter though, this music stands on its own. Throughout the album, you can catch a little glimpse of the phenomenon that Elvis will become. It has some of the deep singing that Elvis is known for, his little high pitched beeps (hard to describe, but when kind of like yodeling when he pops up the octave for half a second). Anyways, it easy to see why Sam Phillips ran with this kid.

As for the music itself, good stuff. The typical songs you would imaging a group of youngsters to be singing about. Songs like, Blue Moon of Kentucky, I Don't Care if the Sun Don't Shine, and I love You Because, and of course That's All Right (the song that Sun released as Elvis' first single). The sound is very distinct, with lots of slapping base, fast moving swing and boogie. And the Ballads are slow and sweet, letting Elvis' voice fill the gaps

Definitely a great representation of the early music that Elvis sang, and I could see how Elvis fans would really eat this up. For the rest of us, I think this album deserves a place on your shelf as a chronicle of rock, or popular rather, music.

As a side note, thanks to the anonymous commenter who pointed out the hypocrisy of my Blonde on Blonde review.

Take some time, take a listen, post your thoughts.

Stats:

Album: The Sun Sessions
Artist: Elvis Presley
Year: 1976(released, recorded in 1954)
My Favorite Song: I Don't Care if the Sun Don't Shine
Tomorrow: Miles Davis

The Beatles (The White Album)

Rolling Stone Rank:10

Well, now that we're past that ugliness, let's get The Beatles. We've come to the end of the Top Ten, and really you can make an argument that this album doesn't belong in there.

It really doesn't gel together, and the RS article does a perfect job of describing the distance between the band members. Apparently Ringo quit for awhile, but to be honest, who would have cared if he did?

Other than that, my only complaint with this album is that it seem very studio-produced. Not very connected to their fan-base. Y'know, lots of Story songs, about people that aren't The Beatles. And people care much more about The Beatles. It doesn't really get good until While My Guitar Gently Weeps. But, in a was only John and Paul could, they pull off a pretty good album. Lots of hits, and lots of well written songs. Its just that the songs didn't fit together as well as some of their other albums did.

Take some time, take a listen, post your thoughts.

Stats:

Album: The Beatles
Artist: The Beatles
Year: 1968
My Favorite Song: While My Guitar Gently Weeps

Blonde on Blonde

Rolling Stone Rank:9

Everything that I liked about the other Dylan album is absent from this one.

OK, that might be a bit over the line, but still this was terrible. If you go back to read my post on his other entrance into the top 10, you'll read me defending all the people who only knew Dylan as a caricature Well this album was just that.

Since nobody reads this blog, I don't really feel the need to say anything redeeming about Blonde on Blonde, if you like it, the YOU post about it. I didn't think for a second this album is one of the TEN BEST OF ALL TIME. Screw you Rolling stone.

This is so bad, I'm doing my White Album review right now. screw waiting 'till tomorrow...

Take some time, take a listen, post your thoughts.

Stats:

Album: Blonde on Blonde
Artist: Bob Dylan
Year: 1966
My Favorite Song: None

London Calling

Rolling Stone Rank: 8

What can you say about this album, it literally has everything. London Calling may be the best album opener ever, and the styles vary throughout the 19 tracks.

Perfectly described by the writers of Rolling Stone, there is little else I can add to their description. Only to say this: Listen past London Calling, there are a lot of great songs on this album but most people don't get past the first track

Here is where I would normally write a lengthy description and history of punk rock, how the Sex Pistols are sexy and loud, but the Clash wrote music

But, I'm going to see Justin's Band 'Stashe! Oh yeah they rock.

Take some time, take a listen, post your thoughts.

Stats:

Album: London Calling
Artist: The Clash
Year: 1979
My Favorite Song: London Calling

Exile On Main Street

Rolling Stone Rank: 7

Ahhh, the blues.

How I've missed thee. Your passion, your groove, your everything.

Exile on Main Street, as Rolling Stone aptly puts it, is the Stones literally in exile. They recorded the album living in France, attempting to escape a variety of problems they were dealing with. And it sounds as un-British as is possible. If you didn't know the group, you would think this was recorded in Nashville, or the deep south.

I'm tired, so I can't quite give this album the length it deserves, but needless to say it's higher than 7th on my list. One more thought: people who try to compare The Beatles and The Stones, just because they're both from Britain, don't really understand how different the two bands were. There is no experimentation in Exile, just straight blues, great licks, and boogie beats.

P.S. "Shine a Light" comes from this album, it's also the name of the Scorsese documentary released last month. I haven't seen film yet, so I can't comment, but I hear it's really good.

Take some time, take a listen, post your thoughts.

Stats:

Album: Exile on Main Street
Artist: The Rolling Stones
Year: 1972
My Favorite Song: Tumbling Dice

Tomorrow: The Clash.

What's Going On

Rolling Stone Rank:6

Coincidentally, 6 is as high as this album got on the charts.

Anyways, my thoughts on this album conflict with one another. First of all, my negative thoughts:

There is no way this album would be received well if it was released today, different than the five albums before this, and most of the albums after it. Forgetting the borderline-sacred lyrics, the music is sooo Motown which is soooo dated. OK, so once you get past that the music is really good, great flute + sax features which in my opinion drives the whole album but more on that....now

My other major complaint with this album is the laid-back attitude that Mr. Gaye sings with. I understand that he is just singing his style, but with the edgy ant-war sentiment. But if you didn't understand English you would have no idea what point he is making, there is little passion in his voice. OK, now for positives:

Obviously huge for the anti-war movement, Marvin Gaye set the stage for many other Motown artists to express their artistry. up until then, the Motown style and label was much more concerned with popularity than a social conscious. Ironically it was Gaye's commercial success though that paved the way...

It's worth a listen, although I think it was ranked higher on the RS list than it deserves, I think Rolling Stone put the social significance before the actual music.

Take some time, take a listen, post your thoughts.

Stats:

Album: What's Going On
Artist: Marvin Gaye
Year: 1971
My Favorite Song: What's Going On

Tomorrow: The Freakin' Rolling Stones!!! Finally!

Rubber Soul

Rolling Stone Rank:5

This album marked the change. The beginning. For The Beatles, and for popular music. While still holding on to their pop-music roots, The Beatles began to branch out their sound. Admittedly, they were heavily influenced by Bob Dylan's recordings (so in a sense you could credit Dylan for starting this whole movement). But, The Beatles did it better than anybody ever will. They are the Beethoven of rock music...see his work was credited as "bridging the gap" between classical and romantic music.

We have a lot of innovation in this album for The Beatles. Something the Rolling Stone article talks about... First, the use of Sitar in popular music (Norwegian wood). Also, the overall tone of the album takes a cynical, sarcastic, self loathing tone. Definitely a change from Love Me Do.

Anyway, it was great but it brings about the one criticism that people have with The Beatles.

Mainly this thought: If this is a list of the 500 greatest albums, how is it possible that The Beatles are 3 of the top 5? Are you saying that The Beatles 3rd best album is better than The Rolling Stones' greatest effort?

In a word. Yes.

No doubt, Keith Richards can produce a killer riff. And Mick wrote some prolific stuff. But, not better than John, Paul, George, and Ringo. For me, there is no argument. It is simple, The Beatles are leaps and bounds above the rest. Disagree? Write a comment...

Take some time, take a listen, post your thoughts.

Stats:

Album: Rubber Soul
Artist: The Beatles
Year: 1965
My Favorite Song: In my life

Later Today: I have a long car ride in front of me tonight. So I expect to get through Marvin Gaye and my first Stones' album.

Highway 61 Revisited

Rolling Stone Rank: 4

Now, I know what you think when you hear of Bob Dylan. You think of a caricature of Bob Dylan. Some mopey headed mumbling impression of a man. But have you ever listened to his album? Yes, we've all heard "Like a Rolling Stone". And yeah, it's pretty obvious you know what he's talking about. So when you tell people that he was a voice of the generation but he's not THAT good, you really believe what you are saying.

But you don't know.

You don't know how great Dylan is, and how great this album was.

It was recorded in 6 days. 6 Days! Of course this was after Dylan had gone electric, and this is pretty obvious when you listen to it. Although the last track, Desolation Row, is a great acoustic tune.

Also the shuffle on the title track "Highway 61 Revisited", is a fantastic blues lick that sets the tone of the entire album. Overall, it was fantastic, and it really set me straight on my opinion of Dylan. After listening to this album today, I can't wait for when I get to Blonde on Blonde.

Take some time, take a listen, post your thoughts.

Stats:

Album: Highway 61 Revisited
Artist: Bob Dylan
Year: 1965
My Favorite Song: Like a Rolling Stone

Tomorrow: Third Beatles Album of the week.....Rubber Soul.

Revolver

Rolling Stone Rank: 3

Revolver is awesome. There is no other way to describe the awesome-ness of this album. It has everything and anything you want.

I remember listening to this album for the first time. Every week in 8th grade, I had to walk from the middle school to the high school for percussion lessons. And after my lesson I would walk from the high school to the library. No joke, I think I listened to Revolver and Rubber Soul every week those final months of the year.

So two things came out of this experience, and both have been pretty enjoyable. A life-long love for The Beatles, and ummm oh yeah my career. (yes i realize that is just a link to a website with my name on it, but y'know I'll take what I can get.)

Ok, so where was I? Oh yeah, this album has EVERYTHING. Allow me to go track by track....

1.Taxman- Hard Rocking Harrison tune, with McCartney ripping out a guitar solo

2.Eleanor Rigby-One of the most well-known Beatles songs, plus it's Matt's favorite.

3.I'm Only Sleeping- John's song. Features some innovative tape techniques, that as an 8th grader I didn't really understand, but I knew it sounded cool

4.Love You To- Geroge's take on the Indian music style, also features tape techniques, and tabla

5.Here There and Everywhere-classic love song. I believe I sang this to my girlfriend once...

6.Yellow Submarine- Sing-a-long for everyone! No substance, but hey, it's Ringo!

7.She Said She Said- Yah for Acid! I haven't, but John, Ringo, and George did. Then they wrote a song.

8.Good Day Sunshine- Great song to start the second side of the album, Paul said he was going for "The Lovin' Spoonful" style.

9.And Your Bird Can Sing- Great vocals, and a rocking melody line in the guitar.

10.For No One- My Second favorite song on the album. Fantastic lyrics, beautiful song.

11.Doctor Robert- Another drug song, y'know as I go through this I'm starting to realize there's a lot of drug related songs on this album....Well, anyways, as an 8th grader I really liked the construction of this song.

12. I Want to Tell You- The Beatles used a fade-in for this song, something rarely used, but they use it fantastically, and who didn't love the piano banging out minor octaves.

13. Got to Get You Into My Life- Paul screaming out lyrics. Doesn't get better than that.

14. Tomorrow Never Knows- A great pychadellic song with more audio experiments.

Well, I took a lot of time to break down the tracks, but just to recap: The album is great, as far as I can tell the first time we hear the main vocals through on both the left and right tracks is the chorus of Eleanor Rigby. Powerful moment. Good stuff.

Take some time, take a listen, post your thoughts.

Stats:

Album: Revolver
Artist: The Beatles
Year: 1966
My Favorite Songs (Tie): Here, There and Everywhere & For No One

Tomorrow: Highway 61 Revisited.

Pet Sounds

Rolling Stone Rank: 2

Essentially, Brian Wilson wrote the album by himself (which comes through in his intensely personal lyrics). But, as you will read in RS's take, Wilson actually was inspired to write the album after hearing The Beatles' Rubber Soul.

Listening to this album is an experience. I invite any and all to take part in Brian's masterpiece.
The sound, well it is THE California sound. I'm pretty sure the Wilson brothers played every single instrument that they could get their hands on when creating Pet Sounds.
The singing was magnificent, in the way that only the Beach Boys could pull off.

I guess the most appealing, or unappealing depending on your view, part of this album was the intense personal nature of the lyrics. Wilson waxes poetically about all the aspects of love, but I could see how these love songs could turn people off to the album. He spent a lot of the Pet Sounds detailing literally every type of love song you could think of, definitely NOT The Beatles singing about circuses and fixing a hole. Brian really used this album to speak directly to his fan base.
All except for "Sloop John B". Nothing to really say about the song, except that I love it but it was a complete non-sequitur for this album.

Anyway, definitely deserving of the #2 rank on RS, it's an unbelievable journey through the mind of a genius. Made even more unbelievable when you realize this came just before his mental breakdown...

Take some time, take a listen, post your thoughts.

Stats:

Album: Pet Sounds
Artist: The Beach Boys
Year: 1966
My Favorite Song: I Just Wasn't Made for These Times (The hidden gem once you get past the singles)

Tomorrow: Revolver.

Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band

Rolling Stone ranks this Beatles album at the top of their list
Here's what they say about it.

While I personally think that Abbey Road was better, who could argue with this selection. I like to think of Sgt. Pepper as the 1972 Miami Dolphins:
And how you ask?

Well, just like the Griese-led Dolphins, it is not the individual but rather the team that produces a winner. These songs heard together are great, don't get me wrong, but there is a reason that none of them alone crack the Top-25 of Rolling Stones Top Songs.

Anyway, it's 2008 so everybody knows all the innovations that the Beatles showcased on this album. The Beatles had stopped touring at the point of Peppers' release, so that fact they we open with the introduction of a fake band, playing in front of fake audience makes the album even more special.

Another reason that made this album special was the cross-contamination of Lennon-McCartney:
John's songs on the album kept a peppy upbeat tone ("...Benifit of Mr. Kite").
While Paul's numbers had surprising undertones ("Fixing a Hole", a song about addiction).
Their duality was even more evident on McCartney's "...Getting Better" (Lennon famously added "It Can't Get No Worse")
And the flimsy middle section of John's Masterpiece "A Day in the Life"


So does that make George Martin the Don Shula of this album?

Stats:

Album: Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band
Artist: The Beatles
Year: 1967
My Favorite Song: A Day in the Life

So take some time today to listen and respond......
What do you think about Pepper's?
Favorite Song?


Tomorrow.....heading towards the Beach.....

A New Direction For The Blog

So New Idea!

Rolling Stone has a pretty well-known top list of 500 albums...
(The wheels are spinning, aren't they?)
And I LOVE listening to albums, so the solution seemed obvious:
1 Album a day, I'll blog it, and give people the opportunity re-live their favorite albums...
(Notice the optimism...people, oh Brian)

Now where to start? 500 or 1?
Well....Let's just say this. I don't own Touch.