[Review] The Doors: The Soft Parade (1969)
A hornful, stringful album that starts strong but quickly unravels.
R.E.M.: “Can’t Get There From Here” (1985)
Although it got lost on the way to the charts, it’s still a good driving song.
[Review] Gentle Giant: Octopus (1972)
Their music is still an acquired taste, but rarely has it been tastier.
[Review] Herbie Hancock: The Prisoner (1969)
A year after MLK was murdered, Herbie writes a modal jazz masterpiece dedicated to the man.
Sailor: “Traffic Jam” (1974)
A tuneful lament for bygone days before the world went car crazy.
[Review] Yes: Relayer (1974)
A refugee finds a temporary home as Yes finds the magic once again.
[Review] Brinsley Schwarz (1970)
Psychedelic, prog and pub rock collide with country-rock on the band’s eclectic, eponymous debut.
Crowded House: “Better Be Home Soon” (1988)
This is one of the better songs from their second album, but the dream was over.
[Review] Robert Wyatt: The End of an Ear (1970)
You probably won’t lose your hearing, although brain damage is a risk on Wyatt’s first.
[Review] Squeeze: Sweets from a Stranger (1982)
A box of chocolates with a surprising number of sour quince logs.
Madness: “The Prince” (1979)
The lads burst out on the scene by giving props to the Prince (Buster) on this infectious single.
[Review] Dio: Dream Evil (1987)
The last album with the core group (may they rest in peace).
[Review] Jean-Michel Jarre: Oxygene (1976)
Jean-Michel Jarre’s breakthrough album was a breath of fresh air.
The James Gang: “Walk Away” (1971)
A hit single that might have turned a less humble band’s head.
[Review] Freddie Hubbard: Open Sesame (1960)
The debut album from the man most likely to inherit the golden horn after Miles Davis.