The Briefing Room
General Category => Sports/Entertainment/MSM/Social Media => Topic started by: catfish1957 on January 08, 2022, 07:57:25 pm
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@libertybele
@Hoodat
Not sure how much interest there will be in this thread, but I believe there is quite a contingent of us who have a lot of love and interest in Classic Rock. I bought my first album (Meet the Beatles) in 1965 at age 8, and didn't stop until well into adulthood. The list nerd in also for some reason made me document who I liked. So, I figured to start with 1973 and work forwards.
No given format otherwise, and just want to hear other's perspective of when music.... really was music.
Update
Index of Record Reviews- Band-Album-Page No. on thread (from Maj. Bill and Catfish)
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Abba- Abba: The Album- 50 ** 1/2
AC DC- Back In Black- 26. ****
AC DC- For Those About to Rock- 43 *** 1/2
AC-DC- High Voltage- 35 ****
AC-DC- Highway to Hell- 51 **** 1/2
Aerosmith- Get Your Wings- 45 *** 1/2
Aerosmith- Rocks- 30 *** 1/2
Aersosmith- Toys in the Attic- 30 ****
Alice Cooper- Billion Dollar Babies- 27 ****
Alice Cooper- Killer- 42 *** 1/2
Alice Cooper- Love it to Death- 38 *** 1/2
Alice Cooper Welcome to My Nightmare- 43 *** 1/2
Allman Brothers Band- Self Titled- 51 ***
Amboy Dukes- Journey to the Center of a Mind- 39 ** 1/2
April Wine- Power Play- 50 ***
Eric Burdon and the Animals- Winds of Change- 42 ** 1/2
Asia- Asia- 38 * 1/2
Bachman Turner Overdrive- Not Fragile- 49- ***
Bad Company- Bad Coompany- 50 *** 1/2
The Beach Boys- Pet Sounds- ** 1/2
The Beatles- Magic Mystery Tour- 50 *****
The Beatles- Sargent Pepper's Lonely Heart Club Band- 30 *****
The Beatles- Abbey Road- 44 *****
Big Country- The Crossing= *** 1/2
Black Oak Arkansas, Black Oak Arkansas- 32 *** 1/2
Black Sabbath- Master of Reality- 43 ****
Black Sabbath- Volume 4- 26 ****
Blink 182- Enema of the State- 32 *** 1/2
Blink 182- Take Off Your Pants and Jacket- 46 ***
Blue Cheer- Blue Cheer- 44- ***
Blue Oyster Cult- Agents of Fortune- 28 ****
Blue Oyster Cult- The Revolution By Night- 38 *** 1/2
Bloodrock-II - 29 *** 1/2
Boston-Boston- 26 *****
Boston- Walk On- 37 ****
Buffalo Springfield- Again- 50 *** 1/2
Jackson Browne- Lawyers in Love- 38 ***
Captain Beyond- Captain Beyond- 49 *
The Cars- Candy-O - 28 ****
The Cars-The Cars- 39 ****
Chicago- Chicago- 29 *** 1/2
Creedence Clearwater Revival- Cosmo's Factory- 45 *****
Creedence Clearwater Revival- Willy and the Poor Boys- 27 *****
Creme- Disraeli Gears- 37 **** 1/2
Marshall Crenshaw- Marshall Crenshaw- 46 ** 1/2
Deep Purple- Burn- 37 ****
Deep Purple- Machine Head- 30 **** 1/2
Def Leppard- Andrenalize- 50 ****
Def Leppard- Hysteria- 29 ****
Derek and the Dominos- Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs- 40 ****
Dire Straits- Love Over Gold- 41 **** 1/2
Dire Straits- Making Movies- 36 ****
The Doors-The Doors-30 ***
Dream Theatre- Images and Words- 37 ***
Eagles- The Long Run- 37. ***
Emerson Lake and Palmer- Brain Salad Surgery- 26 **** 1/2
Emerson Lake and Palmer- Pictures at an Exhibition- 32 ****
Emerson Lake and Palmer- Tarkus- 47 ***
Emerson Lake and Palmer- Trilogy- 42 **** 1/2
Eno- Another Green World- 34
Enya- Shepherd Moons- 46 ***
Fleetwood Mac- Mirage- 51 *** 1/2
Fleetwood Mac Rumors-46 *** 1/2
Fleetwood Mac- Tusk- 43 ****
Foghat- Night Shift- 42 ****
Foreigner- IV- 29 *** 1/2
Genesis- Trespass- 36
Golden Earring- Moontan- 33 *** 1/2
Grand Funk Railroad- Closer to Home- 35 ***
Green Day- American Idiot- 29 ***
Guns and Roses- Appetite for Destruction- 39 *
Heart- Bad Animals- 45 ***
Buddy Holly- The Chirping Crickets- 48 ** 1/2
Honeymoon Suite- The Big Prize -44 *** 1/2
Hooters- Nervous Nights- 45 ***
INXS- Listen Like Thieves- 36 ***
Jimi Hendrix- Are you Experienced- 34 **** 1/2
James Gang- Rides Again- 29 ****
Jethro Tull- Aqualung- 32 *** 1/2
Journey- Departure- 50 *** 1/2
Journey- Infinity- 35 *** 1/2
Judas Priest- British Steel- 48 ***
Kansas- Leftoverture- 28 ****
Kansas - Point of Know Return- 41 ****
King Crimson- In the Court of the Crimson King- 34 *** 1/2
Kiss- Destroyer- 30 ***
Led Zeppelin- I- 42 *****
Led Zeppelin- II- 41 *****
Led Zeppelin- III- 29 *****
Led Zeppelin-IV- 25 *****
Led Zeppelin- Houses of the Holy- 44 ****
Led Zeppelin- Physical Grafitti- 46 **** 1/2
Led Zeppelin- Prescence- 49 ***
Huey Lewis and the News- Sports- 49 *** 1/2
Loverboy- Get Lucky- 45 ***
Lynyrd Skynyrd- Lynyrd Skynrd- 33 ****
Metallica- Black Album- 35 ** 1/2
Steve Miller Band- Book of Dreams- 29 *** 1/2
The Moody Blues- Days of Future Past- 35 **** 1/2
The Moody Blues- 7th Sojourn- 28 **** 1/2
The Moody Blues- To Our Children's Children's Children- 47 ****
Mott The Hoople- Mott The Hoople- 49 ***
Allanis Morissette- Jagged Little Pilll- 47 **
Nazareth- Hair of the Dog -37 ***
Willie Nelson- Red Headed Stranger- 40 ***
Nine Inch Nails- Broken- 50 ****
Nine Inch Nails- The Downward Spiral- 37 ****
Nine Inch Nails- Pretty Hate Machine- 45 ****
Nirvanna- Nevermind- 35 **
The Offspring- Splinter- 45 ***
Mike Oldfield- Tubular Bells- 37 ** 1/2
Pearl Jam- Ten - 51 ***
Tom Petty and Heartbreakers- Damn the Torpedos- 42 *** 1/2
Tom Petty- Full Moon Fever- 25 *****
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers- Into the Great Wide Open- 34 ****
Pink Floyd- Dark Side of the Moon- 40 ****
Pink Floyd- Momentary Lapse of Reason- 43 ****
Pink Floyd- The Wall- 45 **
The Police- Zenyatta Moondatta- 49 ** 1/2
Primus- Pork Soda- 48 *** 1/2
Queen- Queen- 36 ****
Queen- II- 43 ****
Ramones- Ramones- 28 ****
Rare Earth- One World- 44 ***
The Rolling Stones- Let It Bleed- 47 ** 1/2
Roxy Music- For Your Pleasure- 35 ***
Rush- 2112- 26 *****
Rush- Farewell to Kings- 49 *****
Rush- Grace Under Pressure- 43 *****
Rush- Hemispheres- 41 *****
Rush- Moving Pictures- 30 *****
Rush- Permanent Waves- 47 *****
Rush- Roll the Bones- 45 *****
Rush- Vapor Trails- 41 ****
Bob Seger- Against the Wind- 26 ****
Bob Seger- Night Moves- 48 *** 1/2
The Sex Pistols- Never Mind the Bullocks- 33 **
Silvertide- Show and Tell- 48 *** 1/2
Smashing Pumpkins- Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness- 31 *** 1/2
Smashing Pumpkins- Siamese Dream- 45 ***
The Smithereens- 11- 37 ** 1/2
Social Distortion- White Light White Heat, White Trasg 48 ***
Steppenwolf- Steppenwolf- 48 *** 1/2
Styx- Equinox- 33 **** 1/2
Styx- Grand Illusion- 26 **** 1/2
Styx- Pieces of Eight- 45 **** 1/2
Synergy- Sequencer- 40 *** 1/2
Sum 41- All Killer No Filler 46 ** 1/2
Tool- Undertow- 50 *** 1/2
Toto- Isolation- 34 ***
Trapeze- Medusa- 40 ***
The Traveling Wilbur's- Vol. 1- *** 1/2
Robin Trower- Bridge of Sighs- *** 1/2
UFO- Obsession- ***
Uriah Heep- Demons and Wizards- 28 ***
Van Halen- Van Halen- 40 ** 1/2
Weezer- Blue Album- 35 ***
Edgar Winter Group- They Only Come Out at Night- 43 ***
The Who- Sell Out- 51 *** 1/2
The Who- Tommy- 32 **** 1/2
The Who- Who's Next- 26 *****
Yes- 90125- 44 *****
Yes- Close to the Edge- 50 *****
Yes- Going For the One- 46 *** 1/2
Yes- Talk- 39 *****
Yes- The Yes Album- 27 *****
Neil Young and Crazy Horse- Rust Never Sleeps- 38 ****
Frank Zappa- Apostrophe- 31 ****
ZZ Top- Eliminator-44 **** 1/2
ZZ Top- Tres Hombres- 28 ****
*- Poor
**- Good
***- Very Good
****- Excellent
*****- Classic, indispensable
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I started preparing these list in July 1973, then December 1973 and pretty much monthly afterwards for several years....
July 1973
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1. Alice Cooper Band
2. Uriah Heep
3. Black Sabbath
4. Three Dog Night
5. Grand Funk Railroad
6. Chicago
7. Led Zeppelin
8. Black Oak Arkansas
9. Deep Purple
10. The Guess Who
11. Rare Earth
12. Allman Brothers Band
13. Rolling Stones
14. Yes
15. Eric Clapton
16. The Who
17. Jethro Tull
18. J. Geils Band
19. Elton John
20. Edgar Winter Group
Albums bought:
Uriah Heep- Live
Alice Cooper - Billion Dollar Babies
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The Live ABC "In Concert" event really blew me away with that era of Alice Cooper. For those into history, You Tube- "Elected" for one of what I consider one of the earliest Music Videos of that format. Not that I disliked the "hippy formula" that worked in rock for more than 5 years butt....... Hearing acts like Alice Cooper and Black Sabbath seemed ground breaking and refreshing
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@libertybele
@Hoodat
Not sure how much interest there will be in this thread, but I believe there is quite a contingent of us who have a lot of love and interest in Classic Rock. I bought my first album (Meet the Beatles) in 1965 at age 8, and didn't stop until well into adulthood. The list nerd in also for some reason made me document who I liked. So, I figured to start with 1973 and work forwards.
No given format otherwise, and just want to hear other's perspective of when music.... really was music.
I absolutely agree with Elvis Presley who said; "Roy Orbison is the greatest singer who ever lived!" My collection includes everything he ever recorded and some stuff he recorded but never was released.
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I absolutely agree with Elvis Presley who said; "Roy Orbison is the greatest singer who ever lived!" My collection includes everything he ever recorded and some stuff he recorded but never was released.
Great point. One thing about popular music. Teenage kids tend to dislike their parents music, and in my case Orbison and Elvis That is why I in '60's and '70's really wasn't into those '50's acts. Of course, as I grew older, I understood the reverence for these pioneers. And that hat really hit home when in the '80's the Traveling Willburys were formed. I got to enjoy the legends of an earlier era (Bob Dylan and Roy Orbison) join forces with my era (Tom Petty and Jeff Lynne). Their collaboration was magical.
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You can never have enough Grand Funk Railroad.
I can feel Him in the morning
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g2aLx8R0JT8)
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I started preparing these list in July 1973, then December 1973 and pretty much monthly afterwards for several years....
July 1973
================
1. Alice Cooper Band
2. Uriah Heep
3. Black Sabbath
4. Three Dog Night
5. Grand Funk Railroad
6. Chicago
7. Led Zeppelin
8. Black Oak Arkansas
9. Deep Purple
10. The Guess Who
11. Rare Earth
12. Allman Brothers Band
13. Rolling Stones
14. Yes
15. Eric Clapton
16. The Who
17. Jethro Tull
18. J. Geils Band
19. Elton John
20. Edgar Winter Group
Albums bought:
Uriah Heep- Live
Alice Cooper - Billion Dollar Babies
================================
The Live ABC "In Concert" event really blew me away with that era of Alice Cooper. For those into history, You Tube- "Elected" for one of what I consider one of the earliest Music Videos of that format. Not that I disliked the "hippy formula" that worked in rock for more than 5 years.... Hearing acts like Alice Cooper and Black Sabbath seemed ground breaking.
Alice Cooper is interesting. We actually saw him perform at our local college music hall about 10 years ago. He put on a darn good show and though the audience was mostly our age, we did see some younger people enjoying his music. He has quite a dramatic stage presence. I notice the date of 1973 and it made me realize just how long he's been around.
I've seen several of those listed in concert; Stones, Clapton, Yes, The Who, Edgar Winter, J. Geils (as back up) and several times Elton John. I realize how very lucky I am to have experienced live their phenomenal talents that truly marked Rock 'n Roll history.
Thank you for the list. I'll certainly enjoy going through and listening to those that I didn't pay attention too. In particular, I had to look up Black Oak Arkansas. I am not familiar with their music. (I'm still working through the list).
Take a look at the video in the beginning and the line up of cars to get in to see them.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2tHtAV3uMRI
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You can never have enough Grand Funk Railroad.
I can feel Him in the morning
Awesome tune. My favorite GFR tune of all time? Maybe the most underestimated bass lines of the 70's too.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w3NXgM_LGQA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w3NXgM_LGQA)
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Great point. One thing about popular music. Teenage kids tend to dislike their parents music, and in my case Orbison and Elvis That is why I in '60's and '70's really wasn't into those '50's acts. Of course, as I grew older, I understood the reverence for these pioneers. And that hat really hit home when in the '80's the Traveling Willburys were formed. I got to enjoy the legends of an earlier era (Bob Dylan and Roy Orbison) join forces with my era (Tom Petty and Jeff Lynne). Their collaboration was magical.
Same here. I didn't start listening to Elvis and Orbison till later in life and they are wonderful -- in my perspective they started the 'rock' movement.
For me growing up in the Detroit area, I was heavily also into Motown --started by the legendary Barry Gordy.
I never liked the Detroit area, but looking back I was so lucky; the area is rich in history, especially music.
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My favorite Elvis tune.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=6am8V5KNJ4A
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Alice Cooper is interesting. We actually saw him perform at our local college music hall about 10 years ago. He put on a darn good show and though the audience was mostly our age, we did see some younger people enjoying his music. He has quite a dramatic stage presence. I notice the date of 1973 and it made me realize just how long he's been around.
I've seen several of those listed in concert; Stones, Clapton, Yes, The Who, Edgar Winter, J. Geils (as back up) and several times Elton John. I realize how very lucky I am to have experienced live their phenomenal talents that truly marked Rock 'n Roll history.
Thank you for the list. I'll certainly enjoy going through and listening to those that I didn't pay attention too. In particular, I had to look up Black Oak Arkansas. I am not familiar with their music. (I'm still working through the list).
Take a look at the video in the beginning and the line up of cars to get in to see them.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2tHtAV3uMRI
There will be some obscure bands pop up, that I will be surprised if many had heard of. I am going to add my concert attendance as the list progresses.
Black Oak was a bigger band than people realize at the time. They really caught a toehold with KAAY, back in the day. For those who may not have heard of KAAY, they were a Little Rock based AM station had a night time show called Beaker Street which played at 11PM to 2AM every night. They had a maximum AM strength signal and ruled the airways for years in mid america. KAAY pretty much introduced mid america to rock on the '70's, as most of the local stations at the time were playing country.
But more on the topic of Black Oak. They were big enough that they were able to be signed to California Jam, which was if I remember one of the largest attended festivals in the decade.
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Not on the list, but Bowie came out with his Ziggy Stardust album in 1972
Moonage Daydream
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RPUAldgS7Sg)
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1o4s1KVJaVA
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I'm pretty sure in 1973 I bought Pink Floyd DSOTM, Spirit Twelve Dreams of Dr. Sardonicus and wore them out. All though They were released ealier.
From your list I was rocking out to these songs
Alice Coopers... Schools out..
Uriah Heep... Easy Livin and Steelin
Grand Funk Railroad ...We're an American Band “Sweet Sweet Connie, doin' her act
She had the whole show and that's a natural fact" RIP Connie Hamzy.
Led Zeppelin.. "When it comes down to making out, whenever possible, put on side one of Led Zeppelin IV."
Black Oak Arkansas... Jim Dandy to the Rescue
The Guess Who...American Women
Yes ....Roundabout
Jethro Tull ...Eyeing little girls with bad intent.
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Considering that my walls were covered with Beatle photos that was my passion in the 60's
Never cared for heavy rock which was a good thing since my mother would never allowed me to bring it in the house..I had enough trouble with her accepting the Beatles..lol
Here are a few artists that I bought albums and 45's
The Dave Clark Five
Jay & The Americans
Tommy James and the Shondels
Johnny Rivers
Beach Boys
Elvis....of course
Supremes
Simon and Garfunkel
Peter, Paul and Mary
Roy Orbison
The Righteous Brothers
and many more
Here is the voice
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1sFy5_kmEi4&ab_channel=flydguzmon
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My favorite song of all time
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m0EBs6uRgtw&ab_channel=rbvo
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My famous song of all time
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m0EBs6uRgtw&ab_channel=rbvo
:thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1o4s1KVJaVA
Maybe the greatest song writing talent in a square 50 foot area in history.
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Considering that my walls were covered with Beatle photos that was my passion in the 60's
Never cared for heavy rock which was a good thing since my mother would never allowed me to bring it in the house..I had enough trouble with her accepting the Beatles..lol
Here are a few artists that I bought albums and 45's
The Dave Clark Five
Jay & The Americans
Tommy James and the Shondels
Johnny Rivers
Beach Boys
Elvis....of course
Supremes
Simon and Garfunkel
Peter, Paul and Mary
Roy Orbison
The Righteous Brothers
and many more
Here is the voice
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1sFy5_kmEi4&ab_channel=flydguzmon
Actually, it was my father that introduced me to Simon and Garfunkel (he loved all types of music) and it was my grandmother that I listened to Elvis with. We'd go over to my grandparent's house for dinner just about every Sunday and everything stopped when the Ed Sullivan show came on if Elvis was in the building. happy77
P.S. My walls were covered with 'The Monkees'... (boo, I know), I didn't get into the Beatles till later.
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My favorite song of all time
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m0EBs6uRgtw&ab_channel=rbvo
That IS my hubby's and my song. This is also the song that we danced to at our daughter's wedding)
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Maybe the greatest song writing talent in a square 50 foot area in history.
I'm an early era Vietnam vet @catfish1957 and to be totally honest with you, that list you posted above is composed almost entirely of what I not so lovingly called "hippie bands" . I never got into that until the Wilburys changed that somewhat.
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Led Zeppelin.. "When it comes down to making out, whenever possible, put on side one of Led Zeppelin IV."
Loved Fast Times at Ridgemont High. One of funniest (ultimately stealth) jokes of the movie when Rat was in the car with Stacey, and he was playing Kashmir from Physical Graffiti. NOT Led Zeppelin IV.
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That IS my hubby's and my song. This is also the song that we danced to at our singing).
Ours too...
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Ours too...
Beautiful song, and very iconic of the 60's catalog
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My song.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cNzGoT5bYYs
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Loved Fast Times at Ridgemont High. One of funniest (ultimately stealth) jokes of the movie when Rat was in the car with Stacey, and he was playing Kashmir from Physical Graffiti. NOT Led Zeppelin IV.
That always baffled me too. Maybe it was a Camron Crowe inside joke?
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That always baffled me too. Maybe it was a Camron Crowe inside joke?
I always thought it was an inside joke, accentuating Rat's ineptitude with not only women, but getting the right tune on the 8 track.
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Long ago there was a thing on the internet called FireTalk on which I charmed many a lady by playing Roy Orbison, Marty Robbins, and Elvis recordings.
I have hundreds of hours of MP3s of music from that era.
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Our song.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m5N9IHqqGcA
54 years as of March 2, 2022.
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51 years here..July 17, 1970
Gawd I was sooooooo young..lol
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51 years here..July 17, 1970
Gawd I was sooooooo young..lol
:yowsa: As we all were once!
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Our song.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m5N9IHqqGcA
54 years as of March 2, 2022.
Wow. How wonderful and congratulations. (I was 11 then and couldn't make it to the wedding.) happy77
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39 years here - December 17, 1982
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51 years here..July 17, 1970
Gawd I was sooooooo young..lol
51 years is an accomplishment as well. Congrats!
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I always thought it was an inside joke, accentuating Rat's ineptitude with not only women, but getting the right tune on the 8 track.
I went to the Triva section of IMDB and found this about that.
"When Mike Damone gives Rat his "five point plan" he says, "And five, now this is the most important, Rat. When it comes down to making out, whenever possible, put on side one of Led Zeppelin IV." However the sound track plays "Kashmir" which is not on Led Zeppelin IV, but Physical Graffiti. This is because the producers couldn't get the rights to Led Zeppelin IV."
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:bkmk:
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December 1973-April 1974 List
1. Alice Cooper (no change)
2. Black Sabbath (no change)
3. Led Zeppelin (+4)
4. Uriah Heep (-2)
5. Three Dog Night (-1)
6. The Guess Who (+4)
7. Chicago (-1)
8. Grand Funk (-3)
9. Black Oak Arkansas (-1)
10. Deep Purple- (-1)
11. Rare Earth- (No Change)
12. Elton John (+7)
13. Steve Miller Band (New)
14. Jethro Tull (+3)
15. Edgar Winter Group (+5)
16. J. Geils Band (+2)
17. Yes (-3)
18. Rolling Stones (-5)
19. The Who (-3)
20. Eric Clapton (-5)
Zeppelin up due to airplay of Houses of the Holy, Steve Miller Band- The Joker
Albums those months-
Alice Cooper- Killer
Three Dog Night-Cyan
Alice Cooper - Love it to Death
Chicago- III
Black Oak- Self Titleed
Creedence Clearwater Revival- Cosmos Factory
Black Sabbath- Volume IV
The Guess Wh0- Best Of.
Steve Miller was getting lot's of air play at that time, and I was diggin' it.
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I went to the Triva section of IMDB and found this about that.
"When Mike Damone gives Rat his "five point plan" he says, "And five, now this is the most important, Rat. When it comes down to making out, whenever possible, put on side one of Led Zeppelin IV." However the sound track plays "Kashmir" which is not on Led Zeppelin IV, but Physical Graffiti. This is because the producers couldn't get the rights to Led Zeppelin IV."
lol.... that sure bursts my bubble. :silly:
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Wow. How wonderful and congratulations. (I was 11 then and couldn't make it to the wedding.) happy77
Thanks @libertybele! We missed you! wink777
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39 years here - December 17, 1982
You're almost there...39 years is nothing to sneeze at!
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51 years here..July 17, 1970
Gawd I was sooooooo young..lol
Mike is a lucky man! Tell him i sad thanks for putting up with us! @mystery-ak
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Mike is a lucky man! Tell him i sad thanks for putting up with us! @mystery-ak
I think you just did..he is on this thread...
Mike should participate on this thread as it is right up his alley...but he is too shy... *****rollingeyes*****
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I think you just did..he is on this thread...
Mike should participate on this thread as it is right up his alley...but he is too shy... *****rollingeyes*****
Jump on in Mike! The water is fine!
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May 1974 List
1. Alice Cooper (No change)
2. Black Sabbath (No change)
3. Led Zeppelin (No change)
4. Deep Purple (+6)
5. The Guess Who (+1)
6. Uriah Heep (-2)
7. Grand Funk (+1)
8. Black Oak (+1)
9. Three Dog Night (-4)
10. Rare Earth (+1)
11. Chicago (-4)
12. Emerson Lake, and Palmer (New)
13. Rolling Stones (+5)
14. Elton John (-2)
15. Yes (+2)
16. The Who (+3)
17. Foghat (New)
18. J. Geils Band (-2)
19. T Rex(new)
20. The James Gang (New)
Listened to a friend's copy of Pictures of an Exhibition and was mesmerized by the talent of ELP. To this day, I consider them one of the 4 ultimate musician''s musican's group. For just pure musicianship that group includes ELP, Pink Floyd, Yes, and Rush. This and the following few months was the time when we had to listen to Watergate garbage on the news everynght. Music was a nice respite.
Albums that month-
Simon and Garfunkel's Greatest Hits
Rare Earth- One World
Alice Cooper - Muscle of Love..... Which was an awful disappointment considering the previous 4 albums. Garbage.
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My first album-1966.
Zappa was an eccletric genius. Most everyone I knew, including myself had Apostrophe. What are your top 2 or 3 Zappa/Mothers albums?
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Zappa was an eccletric genius. Most everyone I knew, including myself had Apostrophe. What are your top 2 or 3 Zappa/Mothers albums?
Relevant today more than before...
This is the Central Scrutinizer...
It is my responsibility to enforce all the laws
That haven't been passed yet
It is also my responsibility to alert each and every one of you
To the potential consequences
Of various ordinary everyday activities
You might be performing which could eventually lead to
The death penalty - or affect your parents' credit rating...
Joes Garage act 1 and act 2
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Relevant today more than before...
This is the Central Scrutinizer...
It is my responsibility to enforce all the laws
That haven't been passed yet
It is also my responsibility to alert each and every one of you
To the potential consequences
Of various ordinary everyday activities
You might be performing which could eventually lead to
The death penalty - or affect your parents' credit rating...
Joes Garage act 1 and act 2
You are not kidding. I had to look it up, and I knew Zappa was prolific, but I didn't realize he had 62 albums in his lifetime.
Here's one called "I'm the Slime" from Overnight Sensation, that embodies Anthony Fauci to a "T"
------"I am gross and perverted. I'm obsessed 'n deranged. I have existed for years, but very little has changed. I'm the tool of the government and industry too, for I am destined to rule and regulate you. I may be vile and pernicious, but you can't look away. I make you think I'm delicious, with the stuff that I say. I'm the best you can get. Have you guessed me yet?"
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You are not kidding. I had to look it up, and I knew Zappa was prolific, but I didn't realize he had 62 albums in his lifetime.
Here's one called "I'm the Slime" from Overnight Sensation, that embodies Anthony Fauci to a "T"
------"I am gross and perverted. I'm obsessed 'n deranged. I have existed for years, but very little has changed. I'm the tool of the government and industry too, for I am destined to rule and regulate you. I may be vile and pernicious, but you can't look away. I make you think I'm delicious, with the stuff that I say. I'm the best you can get. Have you guessed me yet?"
I am the slime was directed toward the media. He was spot on. "Your mind is totally controlled, it has been stuffed into my mold and you will do as you are told until the rights to you are sold."
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June 1974 List
1. Black Sabbath(+1)
2. Alice Cooper (-1)
3. Led Zppelin (No Change)
4. Deep Purple (No Change)
5. Chicago (+6)
6. Grand Funk (+1)
7. The Guess Who (-2)
8. Uriah Heep (-2)
9. Three Dog Night (No change)
10. Emerson Lake, and Palmer (+2)
11. Rare Earth (-1)
12. Black Oak Arkansas (-4)
13. Rolling Stones- (No change)
14. Elton John (No change)
15. Bachman Turner Overdrive (New)
16. The Who (No change)
17. Steve Miller Band (New)
18. Yes (-3)
19. J. Geils Band (-1)
20. T Rex (-1)
New Albums this month-
Chicago- Live Volume 4
Led Zeppelin- IV (to replace previous worn out copy)
Emerson Lake, and Palmer- Tarkus
Deep Purple- Fire Ball
Black Sabbath- Master of Reality
Grand Funk- E Pluribus Unum
Chicago - VI
The Guess Who outcrops BTO enters the music scene with catchy hooks and riffs. Hope I don't offend too many fans, saying that outside their few hits, band overall was pretty boring and tepid. Some bands just didn't age well.
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No love for Little Feat? Am I the only fan here? Lowell George is da shizzle.
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lZjDqdCmjqo)
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Some others to consider:
Blind Faith
Canned Heat
Cream
Kansas
Procol Harum
Robin Trower
Steve Miller Band
Ten Years After
Trapeze
Lord Buckley
Might as well add Traffic and Humble Pie to that list
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Thank you for the list. I'll certainly enjoy going through and listening to those that I didn't pay attention too. In particular, I had to look up Black Oak Arkansas. I am not familiar with their music. (I'm still working through the list).
I saw Black Oak several times and they were wild fun. Best thing about them was that they introduced the world to Ruby Starr. She was spectacular.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D0FPxuQv2ns
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No love for Little Feat? Am I the only fan here? Lowell George is da shizzle.
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lZjDqdCmjqo)
Little Feat -- well, I know that I saw them outside, it was raining, but for the life of me I can't remember where or what state. :shrug: (Those were the days).
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I am the slime was directed toward the media. He was spot on. "Your mind is totally controlled, it has been stuffed into my mold and you will do as you are told until the rights to you are sold."
I have watched several Zappa interviews. He is a fascinating brilliant guy who was not afraid to tell anyone how he felt. He destroyed Tipper Gore and her little congressional censorship party. They thought he was just another dumb rock and roller..... :silly:
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Might as well add Traffic and Humble Pie to that list
Indeed! Humble Pie was my first album purchased as well as my very first concert.
(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/8f/73/c1/8f73c168260aed8077dd89bede434f15.jpg)
Steve Marirot's vocals were incredible. I saw Humble Pie in concert in an arena (3 tiers) and he sang one song without a microphone -- no problems with the crowd hearing him. He/they were awesome. It was also my first concert so I was in awe.
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I have watched several Zappa interviews. He is a fascinating brilliant guy who was not afraid to tell anyone how he felt. He destroyed Tipper Gore and her little congressional censorship party. They thought he was just another dumb rock and roller..... :silly:
Dee Snider of Twisted Sister also handed them their hat at those hearings.
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July 1974 List
1. Black Sabbath (No change)
2. Alice Cooper (No change)
3. Led Zeppelin (No change)
4. Deep Purple (No change)
5. Grand Funk- (+1)
6. Uriah Heep (+2)
7. Emerson, Lake, and Palmer (+3)
8. Chicago- (-3)
9. Three Dog Night (No change)
10. The Guess Who (-3)
11. Black Oak Arkansas (+1)
12. Rare Earth- (-1)
13. Rolling Stones- (No change)
14. Elton John (No change)
15. The Who (+1)
16. Steve Miller Band (+1)
17. Bachman Turner Overdrive (+2)
18. Yes (No change)
19. ZZ Top (New)
20. J.Geils Band (-1)
First appearance of ZZ Top, legendary Texas band. In summer '74 they hadn't reached the full national success they would see later. The first Top concert I went to a few years later is its own discussion.
New albums
Deep Purple- Made in Japan
Alice Cooper -School's Out
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1971
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V4im_3AxIZ4)
1972
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LOPdSO_hzlg)
1973
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hsr4PmeEocE)
1975
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TMy_mYkwl4M)
1977
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D4KQae9oMWs)
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New albums
Deep Purple- Made in Japan
Alice Cooper -School's Out
Deep Purple- Made in Japan
One of the greatest live albums ever.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V4im_3AxIZ4&t=5s
Some good stuff on that album. A lot of bad too.
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I think Pink Floyd's best album was "Dark Side of the Moon" -- lots of memories.
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Anybody remember these guys? I think Dan McCafferty has a most unique vocal.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N1oTLfvToEE
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Anybody remember these guys? I think Dan McCafferty has a most unique vocal.
Remember them? Not only does "Love Hurt" but so did my ears. My ears rang for two days after their concert back in 75.
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Remember them? Not only does "Love Hurt" but so did my ears. My ears rang for two days after their concert back in 75.
Oh yes, they were loud. One of the first bands I saw in concert in 1976.
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Anybody remember these guys? I think Dan McCafferty has a most unique vocal.
@debrawiest
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C1mJRmM7Ql4)
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August/September 1974 List
1. Black Sabbath (No Change)
2. Alice Cooper (No change)
3. Deep Purple (+1)
4. Led Zeppelin (-1)
5. Uriah Heep (+1)
6. Grand Funk (-1)
7. Emerson, Lake, and Palmer (No Change)
8. Chicago (No Change)
9. Three Dog Night (No change)
10. The Guess Who (No change)
11. Black Oak Arkansas (No Change)
12. Rare Earth (No change)
13. Rolling Stones (No change)
14. Bachman Turner Overdrive (+3)
15. The Who (No change)
16. Elton John (-2)
17. Mott the Hoople (New)
18. Yes- (No change)
19. Steve Miller Band (-2)
20. ZZ Top (-1)
New Albums for the month-
Grand Funk Railroad- Phoenix
Grand Funk Railroad- Closer to Home
Steppenwolf- Collection 1969-1972
Rare Earth- Get Ready
Black Oak Arkansas-Self Titled
Black Sabbath- Self Titled
Grand Funk Railroad- We are an American Band
Grand Funk Railroad- Shinin' On
Deep Purple- Machine Head
Relatively quiet chart movement, only new entry was Mott the Hoople. ZZZZZ. on this entry. Also, note on the huge add on collection. There was a shop were my grandparents lived, that had a huge used music store, that I would frequent to get bargain basement albums, 8 Track, and Cassettes. When you see "large adds", that is probably what happened.
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Deep Purple- Made in Japan
One of the greatest live albums ever.
Agree 100%
My No. 2 behind The Who- Live at Leeds. Deep Purple had an incredibly tight sound for an early '70's pretty much metal band.
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Anybody remember these guys? I think Dan McCafferty has a most unique vocal.
Nazerth? Oh yeah!!!!!.... The Beavis and Butthead in all of us loved yell screaming expletives a la Hair of the Dog. :cool:
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I think Pink Floyd's best album was "Dark Side of the Moon" -- lots of memories.
Agree... I was not as much a Pink Floyd Fan, until a few years later. At this time in my list, I sadly was more of a 3 chords and loud kinda guy!!!!
Interesting though. My list does show I do buy Dark Side of the Moon next month (October 8, 1974)
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Anyone else remember this excellent band? If I had started preparing my list 2 or 3 years earlier, this band would have easily been in my top 10. One very cool other point about this video. As far as I know... It is the only singular known video clip of them live in the early '70's.
I loved the dueling whailing guitars that was a trademark sound of the early '70's.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eMTQt_bAOPc (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eMTQt_bAOPc)
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I am the slime was directed toward the media. He was spot on. "Your mind is totally controlled, it has been stuffed into my mold and you will do as you are told until the rights to you are sold."
One of the greatest moments in TV History on SNL
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tdtGo2Ib9oI
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October 1974 List
1. Black Sabbath (No change)
2. Grand Funk Railroad (+4)
3. Alice Cooper (-1)
4. Deep Purple (-1)
5. Led Zeppelin (-1)
6. Uriah Heep (-1)
7. Emerson Lake and Palmer (No change)
8. Three Dog Night (+1)
9. Black Oak Arkansas ((+2)
10. Chicago (-2)
11. The Guess Who (-1)
12. Bachman Turner Overdrive (+2)
13. Rare Earth (-1)
14. Mott the Hoople (+3)
15. Rolling Stones (-3)
16. The Who (-1)
17. Steve Miller Band (+2)
18. Bad Company (New)
19. Elton John (-3)
20. Yes (-2)
Vinyl/tape additions-
Pink Floyd- Dark Side of the Moon
Bachman Turner Overdrive- Not Fragile
With Zeppelin's help the first of many "extract groups" is formed with Bad Company. Good band, with several hit, but IMO kind of started the formulaic trend that we saw and that went into perpetuation.
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Not on the list, but Bowie came out with his Ziggy Stardust album in 1972
Moonage Daydream
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RPUAldgS7Sg)
One of my favorite Bowie tunes. Mick Ronson’s ending solo rocks
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People keep talking about how great the Eagles Hotel California album was. Although I agree it was a good album, One of these Nights was better IMO
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This is a list of my favorite albums that I have owned over the years
Boston’s first album
Pink Floyd Dark Side of the Moon
David Bowie Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars
The Cars Candy O
Ozzy Osbourne Diary of a Madman
Allman Brothers Eat a Peach
Jimi Hendrix Are You Experienced
Both Eagles Hotel California and One of These Nights
Bob Seger‘s Greatest Hits
REO Speedwagon High infidelity
I’ll have to think of more
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You can never have enough Grand Funk Railroad.
I can feel Him in the morning
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g2aLx8R0JT8)
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=rTSxAMPXJ80
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I add ZZ Top’s first album to my list
I absolutely love classic rock. There’s no other music I will listen to. I have a stereo in my boat. Classic rock only will play on it. And if any passengers don’t like it, they can swim back to shore
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This is a list of my favorite albums that I have owned over the years
Boston’s first album
Pink Floyd Dark Side of the Moon
David Bowie Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars
The Cars Candy O
Ozzy Osbourne Diary of a Madman
Allman Brothers Eat a Peach
Jimi Hendrix Are You Experienced
Both Eagles Hotel California and One of These Nights
Bob Seger‘s Greatest Hits
REO Speedwagon High infidelity
I’ll have to think of more
Outstanding List... If pressed, this would be my first pass favorite 10 albums of all time....
1. Led Zeppelin IV
2. The Who-Who's Next
3. Rush -2112
4. Boston- Self Titled (1st album)
5. Tom Petty- Full Moon Fever
6. Bob Seger- Against the Wind
7. AC DC- Back in Black
8. Neil Young- Rust Never Sleeps
9. Ramones- Self Titled (1st Album)
10. The Cars- Candy-O
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By 74 I was so burnt out on Black Sabbath that if anyone tried to stuff their tape in my 8track it got thrown out the window.
My tastes were still enjoying Voume IV, and I also like Sabbath Bloody Sabbath, which to this day, I think is the last decent Black Sabbath album.
As far tape tossing? That time's coming. (Teaser Alert). Sabbath is gone from the list in mid '77.
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November 1974 List
1. Black Sabbath (No change)
2. Bachman Turner Overdrive (+10)
3. Alice Cooper (No change)
4. Deep Purple (No change)
5. Grand Funk (-3)
6. Led Zeppelin (-1)
7. Uriah Heep (-1)
8. Black Oak Arkansas (+1)
9. Three Dog Night (-1)
10. Emerson Lake and Palmer (-3)
11. Mott the Hoople (+3)
12. The Guess Who (-1)
13. Chicago (-3)
14. Rare Earth (-1)
15. Bad Company (+3)
16. The Who (No change)
17. Steve Miller Band (No Change)
18. Edgar Winter Group (New)
19. Rolling Stones (-4)
20. Elton John (-1)
Vinyl/Tape additions
Black Oak Arkansas- High on the Hog
Led Zeppelin- II
Deep Purple- Best of
Elton John- Honky Chateau
John Denver- Greatest Hits
Black Oak Arkansas- Keep the Faith
The Who- Who's Next
Allman Brothers- Beginnings
Bloodrock- Whirlwind Tongus
The Beatles 62-66
As I stated earlier, this was my loud 3 chords era, explaining the like of BTO.
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By 74 I was so burnt out on Black Sabbath that if anyone tried to stuff their tape in my 8track it got thrown out the window.
Here’s a question I ask of all our contestants, what made you drop out?
Uh, a lot of people think it was the 400 acid trips I took, you know?
Uh-huh, but what was it really, Bob?
One day I played Black Sabbath at 78 speed, man.
And then what happened?
I saw God!
You saw God, well that sounds like true spiritual enlightenment to me, Bob!
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December 1974 List
1. Black Sabbath (No change)
2. Bachman Turner Overdrive (no chnge0
3. Deep Purple (+1)
4. Alice Cooper (-1)
5. Black Oak Arkansas (+3)
6. Led Zeppelin (No change)
7. Grand Funk- (-2)
8. The Who (+8)
9. Uriah Heep (-2)
10. Three Dog Night (-1)
11. Mott the Hoople (No change)
12. Emerson Lake and Palmer (-2)
13. The Guess Who (-1)
14. Allman Brothers Band (New)
15. Bad Company (No change)
16. Chicago (-3)
17. Edgar Winter Group (+1)
18. Rare Earth (-2)
19. Steve Miller Band (-2)
20. Rolling Stones (No Change)
Vinyl/tape additions-
Cheech and Chong - Big Bamboo. (I know man....not music)
Uriah Heep- Magican's Birthday
Deep Purple- Who Do You Think We Are?
The Who- Tommy
Led Zeppelin- III
Deep Purple- Burn
Led Zeppelin- I
Rolling Stones- Hot Rocks
Three Dog Night- Seven Separate Fools
Joe Cocker- Mad Dogs and Englishmen
Derek and the Dominoes- Layla
James Gang- Straight Shooter
ELP- Pictures at an Exhibition
Yes- Fragile
Alice Cooper- Schools Out
Alice Cooper- Killer
Deep Purple- Shades of Deep Purple
Main points of the month were I found out there was more to Who's Next than Baba O'Reilly and Won't Get Fooled Again. And the Allman Brother. In an earlier post I mentioned how much I am enamoured with the wailing duel guitar sound that was so prevalent in the early '70's. These guys (Duane Allman and Dicky Betts) basically perfected the sound. If you haven't listened to that style before, you are missing out.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FUvxRjYqjEQ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FUvxRjYqjEQ)
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Here’s a question I ask of all our contestants, what made you drop out?
Re: Black Sabbath
In my case, my musical tastes slowly but surely morphed more towards singer songwriter, Prog, and standard rock and roll.
I don't think I have intentionally listened to Black Sabbath for at least over 30 years.
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January 1975 List
1. Black Sabbath (No change)
2. Deep Purple (+1)
3. Bachman Turner Overdrive (-1)
4. Led Zeppelin (+2)
5. Alice Cooper (-1)
6. Mott the Hoople (+5)
7. Black Oak Arkansas (-2)
8. The Who (No change)
9. Grand Funk (-2)
10. Uriah Heep (-1)
11. Emerson Lake and Palmer (+1)
12. Bad Company (+3)
13. Three Dog Night (-3)
14. Chicago (+2)
15. Edgar Winter (+2)
16. The Guess Who (-3)
17. Yes (New)
18. Elton John (New)
19. Allman Brothers (-5)
20. Foghat (New)
New Vinyl/Tape- None
Ahhhhh Foghat. One of those bands that I think are criminally not in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Bryan Bassett had a slide blues style that no one east of Joe Walsh has ever been ever to replicate. Listen to him make that SG sing!!!!! Lonesome Dave also had the perfect white boy blues voice, and gave that dueling guitar sound soul (notice the reocurring theme?)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=As5_xq78VRA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=As5_xq78VRA)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_OdvxTZRPE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_OdvxTZRPE)
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January 1975 List
1. Black Sabbath (No change)
2. Deep Purple (+1)
3. Bachman Turner Overdrive (-1)
4. Led Zeppelin (+2)
5. Alice Cooper (-1)
6. Mott the Hoople (+5)
7. Black Oak Arkansas (-2)
8. The Who (No change)
9. Grand Funk (-2)
10. Uriah Heep (-1)
11. Emerson Lake and Palmer (+1)
12. Bad Company (+3)
13. Three Dog Night (-3)
14. Chicago (+2)
15. Edgar Winter (+2)
16. The Guess Who (-3)
17. Yes (New)
18. Elton John (New)
19. Allman Brothers (-5)
20. Foghat (New)
New Vinyl/Tape- None
Ahhhhh Foghat. One of those bands that I think are criminally not in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Bryan Bassett had a slide blues style that no one east of Joe Walsh has ever been ever to replicate. Listen to him make that SG sing!!!!! Lonesome Dave also had the perfect white boy blues voice, and gave that dueling guitar sound soul (notice the reocurring theme?)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=As5_xq78VRA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=As5_xq78VRA)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_OdvxTZRPE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_OdvxTZRPE)
Foghat. I actually had the opportunity to see them at a friend's backyard party -- a few years before they became popular. Yes ... another stroll down memory lane. Gosh I was so young!
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A few more that I enjoy:
Blue Oyster Cult
Dire Straits
Edgar Winter
Eric Clapton
Foghat
Foreigner
Joe Walsh
Mountain
I think all those bands minus Mountain made my list at some point. I can remember the '70's as unending pool of listening choices for great music. Now, its a struggle just to find one thing listenable.
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Foghat. I actually had the opportunity to see them at a friend's backyard party -- a few years before they became popular. Yes ... another stroll down memory lane. Gosh I was so young!
That's a fascinating story. PLEASE go into some more detail. I have an experience where I saw the Ramones at bar in the mid '80's with about 40 other people. When we get to about 1985, I'll cover it.
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February 1975 List
1. Black Sabbath (No change)
2. Dee Purple (No change)
3. Led Zeppelin (+1)
4. BTO (-1)
5. Black Oak Arkansas (+2)
6. The Who (+2)
7. Mott the Hoople (-1)
8. Alice Cooper (-3)
9. Grand Funk (No change)
10. Bad Company (+2)
11. Uriah Hep (-1)
12. Chicago (+2)
13. The Guess Who (+3)
14. Three Dog Night (-1)
15. Emerson Lake and Palmer (-4)
16. Edgar Winter (-1)
17. Golden Earring (New)
18. Elton John (No change)
19. Yes (-2)
20. Rare Earth (New)
Vinyl/Tape additions- None
Golden Earring IMO is the greatest Dutch band. Quite likely, you are only familar with the 2 albums that charted well in the U.S. ... Moontan and Cut.
Moontan is an awesome concept album dedicated to uhhh. "bad girls". Worth an entire listen, if you have never heard it. Cut has "Twilight Zone" which was a huge hit for them, musically and the video. I'd bet you saw it, if you had MTV in the day.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wIaaBuGNwNw (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wIaaBuGNwNw)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w6bDe9Dgn6g (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w6bDe9Dgn6g)
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This is a list of my favorite albums that I have owned over the years
Boston’s first album
Pink Floyd Dark Side of the Moon
David Bowie Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars
The Cars Candy O
Ozzy Osbourne Diary of a Madman
Allman Brothers Eat a Peach
Jimi Hendrix Are You Experienced
Both Eagles Hotel California and One of These Nights
Bob Seger‘s Greatest Hits
REO Speedwagon High infidelity
I’ll have to think of more
I concur with everything on this list except for the Eagles. I hate the Eagles.
Hard to find a bad song on any of the remaining albums on this list.
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Rainbow Rising
Blue Oyster Cult Agents of Fortune
Joe Walsh So What
Elton John Madman across the Water
I had many of these first in vinyl and 8 track, then cassette, and CDs
The best line I heard once was “ I may be old, but I got to grow up in the best period of music ever.”
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Kinda pretty cool that you managed to keep a slice of your past with these lists... What did I keep when I was of the impressionable age of music, not much. I found a poster board I used to cover my rough home made desk, and transferred the songs I had written on it. The songs were ones I heard on the radio that I wanted to get when I could find them (and had the means to purchase them). I was wise enough that did continue to purchase vinyl most the time and transferred them to cassettes (to play in the car). Cassettes died over time I found.
It wasn't until I got to college that I was able to actually find some of the music I listed. I didn't have the funds to buy it though. So the list persisted until I got out of college (university). I still have some of the vinyl to this day.
Now I have a few blogs I frequent almost daily.... we share music and hope for that gem of a new song.
Our lists are different, but I recognize most every artist on your (catfish) list, though your tastes run a little/lot harder than mine. Lets just say my first album I got of my own choice was Abba. It got a lot weirder from then on.
My latest find from 1980 ... (skip to 50 seconds in if in a hurry to get to the meat of the song)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NRlnIYaTyT0
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How many people have had a chance to see many of these bands over the years in concert?
I’ve seen the original Van Halen, I was working at the arena when Pat Benatar came to Duluth in the early 80s, REO Speedwagon, Styx, Elton John, Kiss, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, Alice Cooper, Rush, Steve Miller Band, Jefferson Starship
The Elton John concert was his recent Goodbye tour . My autistic son loves EJ so we took him as a Christmas gift
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How many people have had a chance to see many of these bands over the years in concert?
I’ve seen the original Van Halen, I was working at the arena when Pat Benatar came to Duluth in the early 80s, REO Speedwagon, Styx, Elton John, Kiss, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, Alice Cooper, Rush, Steve Miller Band, Jefferson Starship
Most concerts were at night and a long drive for me to attend (Atlanta). Thus very few here... Big Country, The Cure, Elvis Costello. I did attend every June Jam concert held by Alabama of course, it was local.
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How many people have had a chance to see many of these bands over the years in concert?
I’ve seen the original Van Halen, I was working at the arena when Pat Benatar came to Duluth in the early 80s, REO Speedwagon, Styx, Elton John, Kiss, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, Alice Cooper, Rush, Steve Miller Band, Jefferson Starship
The Elton John concert was his recent Goodbye tour . My autistic son loves EJ so we took him as a Christmas gift
I saw Van Halen many times in the local bar, REO Speedwagon 3 times, Styx twice, Elton John 3 times (his concerts are excellent), Alice Cooper and I have not seen the others.
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Rainbow Rising
Blue Oyster Cult Agents of Fortune
Joe Walsh So What
Elton John Madman across the Water
I had many of these first in vinyl and 8 track, then cassette, and CDs
The best line I heard once was “ I may be old, but I got to grow up in the best period of music ever.”
Amen!!
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March 1975 List
1. Led Zeppelin (+2)
2. Black Sabbath (-1) They start their decline
3 Deep Purple (-1)
4. Black Oak Arkansas (+1)
5. The Who (+1)
6. BTO (-2)
7. Bad Company (+3)
8. Emerson Lake and Palmer (+7)
9. Grand Funk (No change)
10. Chicago (+2)
11. Mott the Hoople (-4)
12. Uriah Heep (-1)
13. Alice Cooper (-5)
14. The Guess Who (-1)
15. Edgar Winter (+1)
16. Elton John (+2)
17. Jethro Tull (New)
18. Golden Earring (-1)
19. Three Dog Night (-5)
20 Yes (-1)
Added vinyl/tapes
Robin Trower- For Earth Below
Queen- II
Jethro Tull is/was a great celtic tinged prog master. Complex compositions, intellligent lyricism, a really good listen.
Here is a sample of one of my favorites by JT....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eSUdlUmtg3Q (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eSUdlUmtg3Q)
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Before they fall off the list:
Yes - Gates of Delerium (1974)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EdmUAsU2eXI)
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Before they fall off the list:
Yes - Gates of Delerium (1974)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EdmUAsU2eXI)
happy77 happy77 happy77
Don't forget their 90125 and Big Generator 80's resurgence. These guys will be back with a vengence.
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April 1975 List
1. Black Sabbath (+1)
2. Deep Purple (+1)
3. Led Zeppelin (-2)
4. Golden Earring (+14)
5. The Who (No change)
6. Bad Company (+1)
7. Emerson Lake and Palmer (+1)
8. BTO (-2)
9. Queen (New)
10. Grand Funk (-1)
11. Black Oak Arkansas (-7)
12.Chicago (-2)
13. Robin Trower (New)
14. Alice Cooper (-1)
15. Elton John (+1)
16, Uriah Heep (-4)
17. Mott the Hoople (-6)
18. Edgar Winter (-3)
19. Montrose (New)
20. The Guess Who (-6)
Added Vinyl/tapes
Jethro Tull- Aqualung
Led Zeppelin- Physical Graffitti On April 11, 1975***
Queen- What more can be said about the level of talent with this band? In my tastes, they were at their very very best in their first 2 albums which were as hard rock as any thing else being recorded at the time. I enjoyed this version of Queen much much more than the artsy, though no less talented future versions which had more pop and radio tendencies.
Still anyone having any doubts early Queen couldn't rock....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fhIzRul3qFU (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fhIzRul3qFU)
Robin Trower- Once a few years had passed with the death of Hendrix, you started seeing more of the "guitar god", as somewhat of an offering or homage to his greatenss. Trower fresh from Procol Harum had some nice Hendrixish wizardry, though not quite as strong on the song writing front. SRV did a much better job of this a decade later.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZTyAXk_LyCY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZTyAXk_LyCY)
Montrose- Straight up rock and roll band that unleashed Sammy Hagar on the world. Good but not great band. Here is what I consider their signature tune. Which sure sounds a more lot like a lot of Hagar tunes during his solo career.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CtDO3qBo72M (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CtDO3qBo72M)
***- Quite a story with this album. I bugged the hell out of my record store to get Physical Graffiti, and had "urgent" and "priority" status put my order. When I got the call to pick up, that night I thew a Zep Album party with nine of my closest rocking buddies, and we had a formal unwrapping and First Play Party. As far as I know, I was the first kid in the state to get the album. That's at least what the record store told me. And more Hawaiian Punch and Chips Ahoy than anyone could eat. And finally kudos to parents for letting me have the house for the evening, along with the parental HiFi
-
Been revisiting Blood, Sweat + Tears. Dad loves those guys, listened a lot to them in the early 70's.
Amazing band.
-
May 1975 List
1. Led Zeppelin (+2)
2. Black Sabbath (-1)
3. Queen (+6)
4. Deep Purple (-2)
5. Golden Earring (-1)
6. BTO (+2)
7. The Who (-2)
8. Bad Company (-2)
9. Emerson Lake and Palmer (-2)
10. Chicago (+2)
11. Alice Cooper (+3)
12. Jethro Tull (New)
13. Grand Funk (-3)
14. Black Oak Arkansas (-3)
15. Uriah Heep (+2)
16. Edgar Winter (+2)
17. Elton John (-2)
18. Mott the Hoople (-1)
19. The Guess Who (+1)
20. Robin Trower (-7)
Albums/Vinyl added-
Nazareth- Hair of the Dog- Playing on the 8 Track H.S. graduation night..... NOW YO MESSIN WIT A.....!!!!!!!!
Alice Cooper- Welcome To My Nightmare
Doobie Brothers- Captain and Me
NY Dolls- Too Much Too Soon
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UVfJo07pNIc (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UVfJo07pNIc)
-
Been revisiting Blood, Sweat + Tears. Dad loves those guys, listened a lot to them in the early 70's.
Amazing band.
Was a band nerd, so I for sure had a soft spot for Chicago, Blood Sweat and Tears, and Ides of March. Band Director was talented, and wrote some adaptations to Vehicle, Spinning Wheel, and 25 or 6 to 4. Loved that part of band and football season.
-
I grew up on a steady diet of Aerosmith, Boston, J Giles Band, and Van Halen in the late 1970s.
-
Montrose- Straight up rock and roll band that unleashed Sammy Hagar on the world. Good but not great band. Here is what I consider their signature tune. Which sure sounds a more lot like a lot of Hagar tunes during his solo career.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CtDO3qBo72M (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CtDO3qBo72M)
We will have to agree to disagree on this one. I think Montrose (this particular version of the band anyway) was a great band and their first album one of the best of that year.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=tk52nGxF-jc
-
We will have to agree to disagree on this one. I think Montrose (this particular version of the band anyway) was a great band and their first album one of the best of that year.
When it comes to music, it all boils down to opinion and tastes. There are no wrong answers quantifying the unquantifiable. :beer:
-
When it comes to music, it all boils down to opinion and tastes. There are no wrong answers quantifying the unquantifiable. :beer:
Well…..we might agree that today’s “music” stinks. :whistle:
-
Well…..we might agree that today’s “music” stinks. :whistle:
All I know is that I like my music like candy. It is best without rappers.
-
May 1975 List
1. Led Zeppelin (+2)
2. Black Sabbath (-1)
3. Queen (+6)
4. Deep Purple (-2)
5. Golden Earring (-1)
6. BTO (+2)
7. The Who (-2)
8. Bad Company (-2)
9. Emerson Lake and Palmer (-2)
10. Chicago (+2)
11. Alice Cooper (+3)
12. Jethro Tull (New)
13. Grand Funk (-3)
14. Black Oak Arkansas (-3)
15. Uriah Heep (+2)
16. Edgar Winter (+2)
17. Elton John (-2)
18. Mott the Hoople (-1)
19. The Guess Who (+1)
20. Robin Trower (-7)
Albums/Vinyl added-
Nazareth- Hair of the Dog- Playing on the 8 Track H.S. graduation night..... NOW YO MESSIN WIT A.....!!!!!!!!
Alice Cooper- Welcome To My Nightmare
Doobie Brothers- Captain and Me
NY Dolls- Too Much Too Soon
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UVfJo07pNIc (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UVfJo07pNIc)
I thought somewhere between 74 and 75 "The Ozark Mountain Daredevils" charted. Maybe it was the singles charts. Always liked "If you wanna get to heaven (you gotta raise a little hell")
-
I grew up on a steady diet of Aerosmith, Boston, J Giles Band, and Van Halen in the late 1970s.
Aerosmith - No More No More
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4BafISjgXNE)
Boston - Something About You
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N1nhIyf5_6Q)
J Geils Band - House Party
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oBiSJ8jCTjA)
Van Halen - Ain't Talkin' 'Bout Love
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qtwBFz6lfrY)
-
May 1975 List
12. Jethro Tull (New)
From their Warchild album (1974) - Skating Away on the Thin Ice of a New Day
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zq-bcFOI56E)
-
June 1975 List
1. Led Zeppelin (No change)
2. Black Sabbath (No change)
3. Queen (no change)
4. BTO (+2)
5. Alice Cooper (+6)
6. Deep Purple (-2)
7. Golden Earring (-2)
8. The Who )-1)
9. Chicago (+1)
10. Bad Company (-2)
11. Edgar Winter (+5)
12. Emerson Lake, and Palmer (-3)
13. Grand Funk (No change)
14. Mott the Hoople (+4)
15 Uriah Heep (No change)
16. Jethro Tull ((-4)
17. Black Oak Arkansas (-3)
18. Allman Brothers (New)
19. Three Dog Night (New)
20 The Guess Who (New)
New Vinyl/tapes
Bachman Turner Over Drive- 4 Wheel Drive
Led Zeppelin - Houses of the Holy
-
Also never hurts to digest a little Humble Pie.
Black coffee!
-
July 1975 List
1. Led Zeppelin (No change)
2. Bachman Turner Overdrive (+2)
3. Black Sabbath (-1)
4. The Who (+4)
5. Alice Cooper (No change)
6. Queen (-3)
7. Golden Earring (No change)
8. Deep Purple (-2)
9. Bad Company (+1)
10. Chicago (-1)
11. Emerson Lake and Palmer (+1)
12. Edgar Winter (-1)
13. Grand Funk (No change)
14. Mott The Hoople (No change)
15. Jethro Tull (+1)
16. Uriah Heep (-1)
17. Black Oak Arkansas (No change
18. Aerosmith (New)
19. Allman Brothers (-1)
20. New York Dolls (New)
Vinyl/tape additions
Emerson Lake and Palmer- Welcome Back My Friends to the Show that Never Ends
Yes- Fragile
Emerson Lake and Palmer- Brain Salad Surgery
Elton John- Honkey Chateau
Elton John- Caribou
Alice Cooper- Love it to Death
Chicago- VI
Aerosmith- Like from the movie Dazed and Confused, Aerosmith's "Sweet Emotion" seemed and felt like it had the feel of what 1975 was like. Aersosmith's 2nd and 3rd album...Get Your Wings and Toys in the Attic were about as good as it gets. Of course this band would remain legendary for decades, but just never could recreate the same magic back after these two.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Gc6br6l0OQ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Gc6br6l0OQ)
-
Also never hurts to digest a little Humble Pie.
Black coffee!
Don't think Humble Pie ever made the list, but I always thought this was a fine tune.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sdXjm8pZMws (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sdXjm8pZMws)
-
Don't think Humble Pie ever made the list, but I always thought this was a fine tune.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sdXjm8pZMws (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sdXjm8pZMws)
One of my all time favs$
-
One of my all time favs$
There would not have been the Peter Frampton phenomenon without Pie first. :beer:
-
Humble Pie - Shine On
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H5QhnYrjJ3k)
-
Well…..we might agree that today’s “music” stinks. :whistle:
I tried...really tried to stay current on music. The new stuff just don't cut it...so I gave up. Same with C&W.
So I have reverted to classic for both. It may be familiarity but I think it has more to do with quality.
-
August 1975 List
1. Led Zeppelin (No change)
2. Bachman Turner Overdrive (No change)
3. Black Sabbath (No change)
4. The Who (No change)
5. Emerson Lake and Palmer (+6)
6. Chicago (+4)
7. Bad Company (+2)
8. Golden Earring (-1)
9. Queen (-3)
10. Deep Purple (-2)
11. Alice Cooper (-6)
12. Aerosmith (+6)
13. Mott the Hoople (+1)
14. Grand Funk (-1)
15. Uriah Heep (+1)
16. Edgar Winter (-4)
17. Elton John (New)
18. New York Dolls (+2)
19. Jethro Tull (-4)
20. Black Oak Arkansas (-3)
Vinyl/Tapes added
Aerosmith - Get Your Wings
Black Sabbath- Sabotage
From Get Your Wings.... One of my favorite blues remakes of all time. Though this is a televised shortened version.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZxXI2BPRzaA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZxXI2BPRzaA)
-
I'm surprised to learn that Tommy Iommi temporarily left Black Sabbath to play with Jethro Tull in 1968.
-
September/October 1975 List
1. Bachman Turner Overdrive (+1)
2. Black Sabbath (+1)
3. Led Zeppelin (-2)
4. Emerson Lake, and Palmer (+1)
5. The Who (-1)
6. Chicago (No change)
7. Aerosmith (+5)
8. Bad Company (-1)
9. Deep Purple (+1)
10. Alice Cooper (+1)
11. Mott the Hoople (+2)
12. Queen (-3)
13. Golden Earring (-5)
14. Elton John (+3)
15. Kiss (New)
16. Uriah Heep (-1)
17. Grand Funk (-3)
18. Edgar Winter (-2)
19. New York Dolls (-1)
20. ZZ Top (New)
Vinyl/tapes added-
Blue Oyster Cult- On Your Feet or On Your Knees.
Kiss-. What can you say.... Were Kiss good musicians? No. Were Kiss good song writers? - Nope. But for shock, showmanship, and dropping jaws..... They out of the blue and took the ring from Alice Cooper almost instantly. I went to a Kiss concert a few years later after this particular list, and honestly say my ears never rang more, and thought there was nothing coller than this at the time. Heck, I even caught an Ace Freley guitar pick.
For the probable small crowd who has not witnessed their show...Note sorry for using 2006, but so much early footage was garbage of the good tunes.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fTqLf1A-Q-4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fTqLf1A-Q-4)
Concert- Wet Willie on October 1, 1975. They had a minor hit in that era with "Keep on Smiling". Don't remember too much special about the event.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_wosle4sayE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_wosle4sayE)
-
August 1975 List
17. Elton John (New)
1975 - Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy
Someone Saved My Life Tonight
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A-2vN3YJ29k)
-
I'm surprised to learn that Tommy Iommi temporarily left Black Sabbath to play with Jethro Tull in 1968.
Did not know that. Band in total, are excellent musicans.
One thing that can be said about Black Sabbath, that can't be said about any other band.....
They are probably the one single group that can be singlely creditied for creation of an entire music genre.
-
I grew up on a steady diet of Aerosmith, Boston, J Giles Band, and Van Halen in the late 1970s.
I saw Aerosmith in a church basement in Canada before they hit it big.
-
***- Quite a story with this album. I bugged the hell out of my record store to get Physical Graffiti, and had "urgent" and "priority" status put my order. When I got the call to pick up, that night I thew a Zep Album party with nine of my closest rocking buddies, and we had a formal unwrapping and First Play Party. As far as I know, I was the first kid in the state to get the album. That's at least what the record store told me. And more Hawaiian Punch and Chips Ahoy than anyone could eat. And finally kudos to parents for letting me have the house for the evening, along with the parental HiFi
Great story. What memories!!! (We weren't allowed near the HiFi).
-
***- Quite a story with this album. I bugged the hell out of my record store to get Physical Graffiti, and had "urgent" and "priority" status put my order. When I got the call to pick up, that night I thew a Zep Album party with nine of my closest rocking buddies, and we had a formal unwrapping and First Play Party. As far as I know, I was the first kid in the state to get the album. That's at least what the record store told me.
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gEYqSorzOZs)
-
Great story. What memories!!! (We weren't allowed near the HiFi).
Neither could I. This was a special occasion.
-
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gEYqSorzOZs)
F*cking classic!
From Celebration Day 40 years later.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PD-MdiUm1_Y
-
November 1975 List
1. Black Sabbath (+1)
2. Led Zeppelin (+1)
3. Emerson Lake and Palmer (+1)
4. BTO (-3)
5. The Who (No change)
6. Aerosmith (+1)
7. Chicago (-1)
8. Kiss (+7)
9. Bad Company (-1)
10. Trapeze (New)
11. Deep Purple (-2)
12. Alice Cooper (-2)
13. Queen (-1)
14. Mott the Hoople (-3)
15. Golden Earring (-2)
16. Lou Reed (New)
17. Robin Trower (New)
18. Uriah Heeo (-2)
19. ZZ Top (+1)
20. Montrose (New)
Vinyl/Tape Additions
None
Trapeze- Solid MOR band that got a lot of air play in the mid '70's.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k-h57LD15ow (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k-h57LD15ow)
Lou Reed- - Velvet Underground Singer who got under Bowie's wing for a strong mid to late '70's run. Most of you probably most remember him from his Velvet Underground reprise "Sweet Jane", which actually on this album was better than the original
And of course most was remembered for "Walk on the Wild Side"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7FdWPeHFAMk (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7FdWPeHFAMk)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oG6fayQBm9w (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oG6fayQBm9w)
-
December 1975 List
1. Black Sabbath (No Change)
2. Led Zeppelin (No change)
3. The Who (+2)
4. Emerson Lake and Palmer (-1)
5. Kiss (+3)
6. Aerosmith (No change)
7. BTO (-3)
8. Bad Company (+1)
9. Chicago (-2)
10. Queen (+3)
11. Foghat (New)
12. Alice Cooper (No Change)
13. Deep Purple (-2)
14. Golden Earring (+1)
15. Trapeze (-5)
16. Mott the Hoople (-2)
17. Robin Trower (No change)
18. Montrose (+2)
19. Black Oak (New)
20. ZZ Top (No change)
Vinyl/Tape additions- None
Uneventful month- Will use this post to cover what I feel is the most iconic rock film clip in history. Enjoy if you have never seen it. I'll even provide a narrative. :cool:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVN8_7wVSG0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVN8_7wVSG0)
0:08- Jimi provides PSA that the next 7 minutes might be hazardous to your hearing
1:05 -Some can't chew gun and walk at the same time. Hendrix OTOH, gives prehistoric lesson on using feedback for R&R, and chews gum.
2:20- Jimi is the best? Heck he has the 3rd best 'Fro in the band.
2:50- Look Ma---- One hand, no picking.......
4:11 Hendrix - Behind the back? Anyone can do that right?
4:48- Cass Elliot lets 4 flies in her mouth with a jaw drop
5:00- All hell breaks lose.
5:15- Find out the real Wild Thing was Jimi's Marshall Amp.
5:56- Hendrix tries to summon the soul of Robert Johnson from the depths of hell
6:32- Jimi demonstrates his cooking skills, making Broiled Stratocaster
6:50- Fender Abuse your honor, 1st degree
6:53- Cass Elliot closes her mouth long enough to approve.
7:09- That guitar fret may look destroyed, but I heard one expert say that piece of guitar might be worth a quarter of a million dollars today.
7:14- Classic look of shock, not realizing you have just witnessed rock and roll history.
-
January 1976 List
1. Emerson Lake and Palmer (+3)
2. Led Zeppelin (No change)
3. Black Sabbath (-2)
4. Aerosmith (+2)
5. The Who (-2)
6. Kiss (-1)
7. Chicago (+2)
8. Queen (+2)
9. Bad Company (-1)
10. BTO (-3)
11. Deep Purple (+2)
12. Alice Cooper (No change)
13. Mott the Hoople (+3)
14. Golden Earring (No change)
15. Foghat (-4)
16. Grand Funk (New)
17. Trapeze (-2)
18. Robin Trower (-1)
19. Black Oak Arkansas (No Change)
20. Montrose (-2)
Vinyl/Tapes added
Aersosmith - Toys in the Attic
Concert- January 31, 1976
Head East, Styx, and Foghat- $6.00 according to the stub I have stapled on.
Beyond excellent. Seeing Styx as a back up band was quite a future conversation piece too. Can remember the synthisizer on Suite Madame Blue being so loud and hitting the right frequency, I felt like it was a memorex commercial. Foghat did not disappoint either. They blasted loud long dueling blues riffs that sure left a big smile on my face by the end of the night. Wow.... this was real rock and roll.
Another blast from the past.....
Wish I had included this in May 1974 list, when it happened, but here is the California Jam that has Carl Palmer's amazing drum solo. Very underrated drummer when discussing the best ... For those impatient... solo starts at about 2:50 mark.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P19BpRijJD4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P19BpRijJD4)
-
February 1976 List-
1. Emerson Lake and Palmer (No change)
2. Led Zeppelin (No change)
3. Black Sabbath (No change)
4. Aerosmith (No change)
5. The Who (No change)
6. Queen (+2)
7. Chicago- (No change)
8. Bad Company (-2)
9. Kiss (-3)
10. Foghat (+5)
11. Deep Purple (No change)
12. Golden Earring (+2)
13. Mott the Hoople (no Change)
14. Alice Cooper (-2)
15. Bachman Turner Overdrive (-5)
16. Trapeze (+1)
17. Uriah Heep- (New)
18. Robin Trower (No change)
19. Styx (New)
20. Montrose (No change)
Vinyl/Tapes added
Bread- Best of Bread- Okay, stop laughing. This was a date tape. If you don't know what I mean, or the motive for this tape, then go back to Mike Damone's Fast Times at Ridgemont High's comments around dating tips.
Styx-. You will find that Styx will be a powerhouse on this list for several years. The three album streak of Equinox, Grand Illusion, and Pieces of 8 is about as good of a dynasty of bad ass rocking prog tunes that you will ever see. Before Equinox, the band was good, but uneven around the edges with song writing and production
After Pieces of 8, you had the disasters of Cornerstone, Paradise Theatre, and beyond. This is the era that the band sadly let Dennis DeYoung wrestle control of the band, and gave the finger to James Young's and Tommy Shaw's contributions and ideas. The results sucked. Sugary pop shit, pointless concepts, and no chops on the rocking side. Listening to "Babe" or Colonoscopy Prep? Tough choice.
Now a concert set..... (Some strange off key singing, but otherwise a great sample of their concerts as I remembered it.)-
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nd5NDkrGlMY&t=1642s (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nd5NDkrGlMY&t=1642s)
-
March 1976 List
1. Emerson Lake and Palmer (No change)
2. Aerosmith (+2)
3. Led Zeppelin (-1)
4. Black Sabbath (-1)
5. The Who (No change)
6. Queen (No change)
7. Foghat (+3)
8. Chicago (-1)
9. Bad Company (-1)
10. Deep Purple (+1)
11. Nazerth (New)
12. Golden Earring (No change)
13. Kiss (-4)
14. Mott the Hoople (-1)
15. Trapeze (+1)
16. Alice Cooper (-2)
17. Bachman Turner Overdrive (-2)
18. Uriah Heep (-1)
19. Montrose (+1)
20. Styx (-1)
Added vinyl/tapes- none
Another uneventful month on the list, so I'll add another iconic film moment in rock and roll history. Hint, like last night it involves busting guitars... :cool:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TZkjA8DTg4o (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TZkjA8DTg4o)
I remember the shock on my parents face when this came on and my dad asked..... This isn't one those freaky long haired bands you listen to is it?
-
Styx - Suite Madam Blue
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CkkQPxoxJJY)
-
Bad Company - Good Lovin' Gone Bad
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ylpXjRZxqS8)
-
April 1976 List
1. Emerson Lake and Palmer (No change)
2. Black sabbath (+2)
3. Aerosmith (-1)
4. Led Zeppelin (-1)
5. Foghat (+2)
6. Queen (No change)
7. Chicago (+1)
8. The Who (-3)
9. Deep Purple (+1)
10. Bad Company (-1)
11. Narareth (No change)
12, Kiss (+1)
13. Trapeze (+2)
14.Golden Earring (-2)
15. BTO (+2)
16. Alice Cooper (No change)
17. Mott the Hoople (-3)
18. Uriah Heep (No change)
19. Jethro Tull (New)
20. Montrose (-1)
New Viny'/tapes
Led Zeppelin - Prescence
Presence was a step back in quality vs. the previous few LZ albums. It was interesting seeing the owner of the Pawn Stars (reality TV) looking for one of the "presence" statues....
IMO...best cut on the LP.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=la-zf2TgCjw&list=OLAK5uy_mT_MiImC0I7IBuJyArszeVcAVhDxb2Bz0&index=4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=la-zf2TgCjw&list=OLAK5uy_mT_MiImC0I7IBuJyArszeVcAVhDxb2Bz0&index=4)
Here is another moment in rock history, as Alice Cooper starts out as introductory guest in ABC's In Concert series debuting in 1972. The quality of the film is not good, but it gives you a nice view of Alice before when he was more a shock rocker than a choreographed Spider Chaser.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ME5ac1liQ18 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ME5ac1liQ18)
-
May 1976 List
1. Led Zeppelin (+3)
2. Emerson Lake and Palmer (-1)
3. Aerosmith- (No change)
4. Black Sabbath (-2)
5. Queen (+1)
6. Foghat (-1)
7. The Who (+1)
8. Bad Company (+2)
9. Deep Purple (No change)
10. The Sweet (New)
11. Chicago (-4)
12. BTO (+3)
13. Nazareth (-2)
14. Golden Earring (No change)
15. Kiss (-3)
16. Alice Cooper (No change)
17. Trapeze (-4)
18. Mott the Hoople (-1)
19. Montrose (+1)
20. Jethro Tull (-1)
Vinyl/Tape Additions
Foghat- Rock and Roll Outlaws
Sweet- Desolation Blvd. :2barf:
Foghat- Fool for the City
Nazareth- Hair of the Dog
Beatles- Sargent Peppers
The Sweet- British Glam / Pop Band that was mostly known by the hit Fox on the Run, and Bar Room Blitz Formulaic Garbage. Hate to embarass myself, but my liking this group was more to the fact that a girlfriend at the time and I would listen to this in my car. I will stop with that embarassment right now. No excuses. (Drops head in shame)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qBdFA6sI6-8 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qBdFA6sI6-8)
-
1976 - One of the best selling live albums ever
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V9Yq5m9eLIQ)
-
Thin Lizzy - Jailbreak album (1976)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dMko8DlY9IA)
-
Ritchie Blackmore transitions from Deep Purple to Rainbow
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YmJIccPWnEk)
-
May 1976 List
The Sweet- British Glam / Pop Band that was mostly known by the hit Fox on the Run, and Bar Room Blitz Formulaic Garbage. Hate to embarass myself, but my liking this group was more to the fact that a girlfriend at the time and I would listen to this in my car. I will stop with that embarassment right now. No excuses. (Drops head in shame)
And to think we are only about a year away from the biggest shame ever....Disco.
-
And to think we are only about a year away from the biggest shame ever....Disco.
The Punk scene is also breaking out at this time. The Ramones debuted with their first album in 1976.
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=skdE0KAFCEA)
-
June 1976 List
1. Led Zeppelin (No change)
2. Emerson Lake and Palmer (No change)
3. Aerosmith (No change)
4. Foghat (+2)
5. Queen (No change)
6. Black Sabbath (-2)
7. The Who (No change)
8. Chicago (+3)
9. BTO (+3)
10. Deep Purple (-1)
11. Bad Company (-3)
12. Nazareth (+1)
13. Golden Earring (+1)
14. Sweet (-4)
15. Kiss (No Change)
16. Trapeze (+1)
17. Montrose (+2)
18. Alice Cooper (-2)
19. Styx (New)
20. Jethro Tull (No Change)
Vinyl/tape additions
Aerosmith - Get Your Wings
Aerosmith - Rocks
Quiet this month, so I'll stick with rock history.
Got to say that all of what has been covered thus far would be nothing, or significantly different had this guy not hit the scene. Yes, I am talking about Elvis. I sure wasn't a fan, because you all know that liking what your parents liked wasn't cool at all. But now, there is no doubting in my mind how much impact The King had on rock music... No Beatles, No Stones, No Beach Boys..... Music as we know it would not exist.
So with no further adieu..... Here's Ed introducing Elvis to America on October 28, 1956...........
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aNYWl13IWhY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aNYWl13IWhY)
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And to think we are only about a year away from the biggest shame ever....Disco.
Made it a point to wear my disco sucks t shirt at lease once every few weeks.
I considered its presence an abomination.
-
July 1976 List - Happy Bicentential America!!!!!
1. Led Zeppelin (No change)
2. Aerosmith (+1)
3. Emerson Lake and Palmer (-1)
4. Queen (+1)
5. Foghat (-1)
6. The Who (+1)
7. Chicago (+1)
8. Black Sabbath (-2)
9. BTO- (No change)
10. Bad Company (+1)
11. Nazareth (+1)
12. Deep Purple (-2)
13. Kiss (+2)
14. Sweet (No change)
15. Golden Earring (-2)
16. Montrose- (+1)
17. Jethro Tull (+3)
18. Trapeze (-2)
19. Alice Cooper (-1)
20. Mott the Hoople (New)
Vinyl/Tapes added-
The Guess Who- Road Food
The Faces- Live
Aerosmith- Self Titled
Grand Funk - Phoenix
Moody Blues- This is the Moody Blues on July 13, 1976- This date marks the birth of my love for prog rock I had heard a few bits a pieces of this band for close to a decade, but never in any great detail. Their music was mesmerizing, lush, orchestatic, often ethereal and outright beautiful, but could also rock. In the prog area, I liked Pink Floyd, but from an art perspecitve PF was like an abstract work vs. the Moody's being an auditory impressionist brushed.
And ahead of their time. This music video is from 1968.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r_TbovyVOzs (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r_TbovyVOzs)
-
Ritchie Blackmore transitions from Deep Purple to Rainbow
I had a friend that we used to have knock down drag out arguments on who was better ..... Page vs. Blackmore.
-
ARG! Forgot all about The Faces.
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uP4CEPaiAzU)
-
August 1976 List
1. Led Zeppelin (No Change)
2. Aerosmith (No change)
3. Emerson Lake and Palmer (No change)
4. The Moody Blues (New)
5. Queen (-1)
6. The Who (No change)
7. Foghat (-2)
8. Chicago (-1)
9. Black Sabbath (-1)
10. BTO (-1)
11. Jethro Tull (+6)
12. Kiss (+1)
13. Bad Company (-3)
14. Nazareth (-3)
15. Sweet (-1)
16. Deep Purple (-4)
17. Golden Earring (-2)
18. Montrose (-2)
19. Peter Frampton (New)
20. Steve Miller Band (New)
The Moody Blues- Before starting on my narrative on the Moody Blues, let me digress a bit, to say how much of a sham that I think the so called Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is, is in Cleveland, Ohio. Their choices, timing, and justification of choices and admissions, has been beyond ridiculous. This Hall of Shame is pretty much the political arm of Rolling Stoned Magazine, and their clown car of editiors, critics, and :silly:experts. They have included so many non-rock and roll entities that had no busness there in the first place, versus snubbing for politcal and genre reasons too. This stupid Hall scorns any trace of political conservatism, rewards radical left wing activist, and stuck the middle finger at genres like prog and '80's hair metal. And I say this as no fan of '80's Hair metal. When Madonna gets recognized 10-15 years earlier than bands like Rush, Yes, Moody Blues, King Crimson (genre based) or political like Rush, Alice Cooper, Kiss, or Ted Nugent. They can not hide their hypocricy, and that is why many great bands have looked at the Hall snub as a badge of honor.
I think John Lyndon of the Sex Pistols said it best in his hand written letter to hall in 1996....
"Next to the SEX-PISTOLS rock and roll and that hall of fame is a piss stain. Your museum. Urine in wine. Were not coming. Were not your monkey and so what? Fame at $25,000 if we paid for a table, or $15000 to squeak up in the gallery, goes to a non-profit organisation selling us a load of old famous. Congradulations. If you voted for us, hope you noted your reasons. Your anonymous as judges, but your still music industry people. Were not coming. Your not paying attention. Outside the shit-stem is a real SEX PISTOL
I concur.... this Hall, can "F" itself.
Alex, of my favorite all time band pretty much summed it up at his induction speech too, and a big middle finger right back at them...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2i2ZbJnkFEY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2i2ZbJnkFEY)
Now back to the Moody Blues.... A pioneer of prog rock, the first to use the mellotron (precursor to synthesizer) , and very innovative songwriting that basically dominated this kind of music from the mid '60's to early '70's. I always thought it was strange how their catalog, and their legacy died with time. Truly a mystery. I could go on for an hour with this band, but I will close with a hauntingly beautiful tune of theirs, following an example that really showcases all aspects of their talent.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yD7r22sjdDM (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yD7r22sjdDM)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-wDHvmCVRxU (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-wDHvmCVRxU)
Peter Prampton-.There weren't many bigger than Frampton in the mid 70's. His live album is one the biggest (I know was) live selling albums in history. Got his chops going with Humble Pie, and elevated himself to stardom. And a show of hands..... How many of you wanted a voice box to talk dirty to your girlfriend too??? :silly:
-
Alex, of my favorite all time band pretty much summed it up at his induction speech too, and a big middle finger right back at them...
I never imagined such prodigious eloquence coming from a Canadian. They should build their own HoF in Toronto and give Pat Travers the respect he deserves.
Now back to the Moody Blues.... A pioneer of prog rock, the first to use the mellotron (precursor to synthesizer) , and very innovative songwriting that basically dominated this kind of music from the mid '60's to early '70's. I always thought it was strange how their catalog, and their legacy died with time. Truly a mystery. I could go on for an hour with this band . . .
Great acid band.
1971 - The Story In Your Eyes
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t-iJ47in9YQ)
-
1976 - Pat Travers, Stop and Smile
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mvn8Ae0XeOM)
-
1976 - Pat Travers, Stop and Smile
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mvn8Ae0XeOM)
Hey @Hoodat ..... Boom Boom!!!!.............
-
Out go the lights!
-
September 1976 List
1. Led Zeppelin (No change)
2. Aerosmith (No change)
3. Emerson Lake and Palmer (No change)
4. Moody Blues (No change)
5. Queen (No change)
6. Kiss (+6)
7. Foghat (No change)
8. The Who (-2)
9. Jethro Tull (+2)
10. Chicago (-2)
11. Black Sabbath (-2)
12.Alice Cooper (New)
13. BTO (-3)
14. Robin Trower (New)
15. Bad Company (-2)
16. Nazareth (-2)
17. Golden Earring (No change)
18. Deep Purple (-2)
19. Montrose (-1)
20. Sweet (-5)
Vinyl/Tape additions
Alice Cooper- Goes to Hell
Deep Purple- In Rock
Robin Trower- Live
Kiss- Destroyer
Another installment of Iconic moments on Film in Rock history..... Here is one that I DO REMEMBER. This was on February 9, 1964, and much like Elvis, these guys paved the road map as far as how rock and roll would evolve........
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jenWdylTtzs&list=RDjenWdylTtzs&start_radio=1 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jenWdylTtzs&list=RDjenWdylTtzs&start_radio=1)
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October 1976 List
1. Led Zeppelin - (No change)
2. Aerosmith (No change)
3. Moody Blues (+1)
4. Emerson Lake and Palmer (-1)
5. Queen (No change)
6. Kiss (No change)
7. Foghat (No change)
8. The Who (No change)
9. Alice Cooper (+3)
10. Chicago (No change)
11. Synergy (New)
12. Jethro Tull (-3)
13. Black Sabbath (-2)
14. Robin Trower- (No Change)
15. Boston- (New)
16. Steve Miller (New)
17. BTO (-4)
18. Nazareth (-2)
19. Golden Earring (-2)
20. Montrose (-1)
Vinyl/Tape Additons-
Chick Correa- The Leprechaun
Jefferson Starship- Spitfire
Michael Oldfield- Tubular Bells
Michael Pinder- The Promise
Boston- . There is no denying or not recognizing Tom Scholz' spectaular fret wizardry that he put on especially on what I feel might be the best single debut album in rock and roll history. And apparently a lot of people agree, as the album is 17X Platinum. Their first album probably got more airplay from me, than any other single piece of rock music in my life. I spent many a drive with "More than a Feeling" blaring out the window of my Truck. Ahhhh memories.
Work by Boston afterwards was really good, but very uneven. They never were able to recapture the magic of that first album, but sure had excellent moments ....like 1994's Walk On. Boston's omission to the R&R HOF is another example of the sham that institution is.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oR4uKcvQbGQ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oR4uKcvQbGQ)
Michael Pinder- I mentioned earlier that I was on a tear for the Moody Blues, and at the time of their entry happened to correspond to a fair LP effort from their Keyboardman. (November additon)
Synergy- - I mentioned that in the beginning of this project there may be some obscure additions. Here is one for sure. Synergy was synth-wiz Larry Fast. Def. an acquired taste, and I was digging it in 1976. Maybe for ambiance??? :cool: :cool: :cool:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oVl2BB9q0Xc (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oVl2BB9q0Xc)
-
1976 - Last Child
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qn6VM1aMGIk)
-
Heart - Magic Man (Live, 1976)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ps7tVvQHLyo)
-
1976 - Somebody to Love
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EKpHL483Bzw)
-
November 1976 List
1. Led Zeppelin (No change)
2. Aerosmith (No change)
3. Boston (+12)
4. Moody Blues (-1)
5. Emerson Lake and Palmer(-1)
6. Kiss (No change)
7. Foghat (No change)
8. Synergy (+2)
9. Queen (-4)
10. Chicago (No change)
11. Black Sabbath (+2)
12. The Who (-4)
13. Alice Cooper (-4)
14. Michael Pinder (New)
15. Jefferson Starship (New)
16. Steve Miller Band (No change)
17. Jethro Tull (-5)
18. Robin Trower (-4)
19. BTO (-2)
20. Nazareth (-2)
Vinyl/Tapes added
Boston- Self Titled
Uriah Heep- Live
Emerson Lake and Palmer- Trilogy
Alice Cooper- Welcome to my Nightmare
Led Zeppelin- Presence
Justin Hayward and John Lodge- Blue Jays
Ray Thomas- Ocean's Edge
Jefferson Starship- Reincarnation of the successful '60's band Jefferson Airplane. Adjusted style toward more mid '70's production MOR music. Had a pretty consistent streak of hits. Still no excuse for this shit. Enjoyed a lot of their music, but honestly there was no excuse for this silly shit.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LQijT1lcR68 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LQijT1lcR68)
For this night in Iconic Rock on Film, I have included the March 1, 1978 clip from the Last Waltz, which was "supposed" to be "The Band's" last performance. Pretty interesting and neat that they were able to get the following on stage for one last number. The Band, Bob Dylan, Ringo Starr, Ronnie Wood, Joni Mitchell, Neil Young, Neil Diamond, Ronnie Hawkins And Van Morrison.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MjtPBjEz-BA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MjtPBjEz-BA)
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December 1976 List
1. Led Zeppelin (No Change)
2. Boston (+1)
3. The Moody Blues (+1)
4. Aerosmith (-2)
5. Emerson Lake and Palmer (No change)
6. Foghat (+1)
7. Kiss (-1)
8. Synergy (No change)
9. Queen (No change)
10. Chicago (No change)
11. The Who (+1)
12. Steve Miller Band (+4)
13. Black Sabbath (-2)
14. Alice Cooper (-1)
15. Jefferson Starship (No change)
16. BTO (+3)
17. Robin Trower (+1)
18. Jethro Tull (-1)
19. Nazareth (+1)
20. Deep Purple (New)
Vinyl/Tape added
Rod Stewart- Sing it Again
RIP to Lead Singer of the Ronettes, Ronnie Spector. She and her group had a huge hit in the early '60's with Be My Baby. Most of us younger crowd remember her with her collaboration with Eddie Money in this awesome tune.....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3aJvIFK9-xk (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3aJvIFK9-xk)
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1976
2112 (full album)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wPpQWyMjQ-s)
-
1975
Caress of Steel (Full album)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hYbeuri1ptY)
-
1976
2112 (full album)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wPpQWyMjQ-s)
:headbang: :headbang: :headbang: :headbang: :headbang: :headbang: :headbang:
One of my all time favorites. Can't hide that I am a Rush Fanboy.
Peart's Randian tendencies of a centralized controlled dystopia in the title epic rings to this day. This album made left wing heads explode.
Here is the story with the song. (via comic book)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w5jwxrTqoEA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w5jwxrTqoEA)
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Thanks @Hoodat for the lead into the perfectly timed....
January 1977 list
1. Led Zeppelin (No change)
2. Boston (No change)
3. Aerosmith (+1)
4. Moody Blues (-1)
5. Emerson Lake and Palmer (No change)
6. Kiss (+1)
7. Synergy (+1)
8. Foghat (-2)
9. Queen (No change)
10. Chicago (No change)
11. Steve Miller (+1)
12. The Who (-1)
13. Robin Trower (+4)
14. Alice Cooper (No change)
15. Black Sabbath (-2)
16. BTO (No change)
17. Rush (New)
18. Jefferson Starship (-3)
19. Deep Purple (+1)
20. Jethro Tull (-2)
Vinyl/Tape additions
Rush- All the World's a Stage
Moody Blues- 7th Sojourn
Nazareth- Loud and Proud
Rush- I know I really need to contain myself trying to quantify and qualify the career of my favorite band of all time, by far. Rather than making it a 1000 word narrative, I just ask that the reader who may not be familar to this band, sample a few dozen of their tunes on YT. I can honestly say that this particular band embodies the traits of consistency , workmanship, and ultimate talent. The sound just these three produce come across as a full rock orchestra. 6 hands and feet never were this talented.
Picking an introductory tune to the thread has been my most difficult decison yet. I started with their most famous (Tom Sawyer), but realized that one has been overplayed, and may not be new ground for many. Xanadu was my next choice, but didn't want a tune that was too synth based. Then I thought of 2112, but not many would want to sit through 20 minutes (its above anyway). I finally decided to go with a live version of "Natural Science". Though it doesn't showcase Neil Peart's drum wizardry as much as other tunes, it really is a great tune showing the bands excessviely talented ability to use key and time changes at a whim. Complexity at is best.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EndaI-okEIc (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EndaI-okEIc)
-
Before moving along, one last instrumental that gives an idea how the Professor operates......
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKIc20Liw3c&list=RDGMEMqVetBnAeSrX23ZFXTAT5hgVMAKIc20Liw3c&start_radio=1 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKIc20Liw3c&list=RDGMEMqVetBnAeSrX23ZFXTAT5hgVMAKIc20Liw3c&start_radio=1)
-
1977 - Go Your Own Way
(Rumors album released in Feb)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ozl3L9fhKtE)
-
1976 - Allman Bros breakup.
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7njWAsTkOuM)
-
February 1977 List
1. Led Zeppelin (No change)
2. Aerosmith (+1)
3. Moody Blues (+1)
4. Boston (-2)
5. Rush (+12)
6. Emerson Lake and Palmer (-1)
7. Foghat (+1)
8. Synergy (-1)
9. The Who (+3)
10. Kiss (-4)
11. Queen (+3)
12. Steve Miller (-1)
13. Chicago (-3)
14. Robin Trower (-1)
15. BTO (+1)
16. Alice Cooper (-2)
17. Black Sabbath (-2)
18. Nazareth (New)
19. Deep Purple (No change)
20 Jethro Tull (No change)
Vinyl/tape additions-
Beatles- Abbey Road
Foghat- Night Shift
Tonight's this film in rock history is about about another groundbreaking band that some like, some don't. But there is no denying their influence, and fact they pretty much were one of the first progenitors of Grunge.... Nirvanna. The story of Kurt Cobain is a dizzying example of highs and lows and how drug additiction can destroy someone and all around them. The clip I am adding is as historic, first because it rally started the MTV un-plugged, but also secondly, I believe this is the last national appearance by Cobain and Nirvanna, before his suicide 6 months later in Seattle. This concert is from November 18, 1993
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aWmkuH1k7uA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aWmkuH1k7uA)
-
1975 - Searching
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-m1lIUQMMqY)
-
March 1977 List
1. Led Zeppelin (No change)
2. Aerosmith (No change)
3. Boston (+1)
4. Moody Blues (-1)
5. Rush (No change)
6. Foghat (+1)
7. Emerson Lake and Palmer (-1)
8. Kiss (+2)
9. The Who (No change)
10. Queen (+1)
11. Chicago (+2)
12. Synergy (-4)
13. Robin Trower (+1)
14. Steve Miller Band (-2)
15. BTO (No change)
16. ZZ Top (New)
17. Alice Cooper (-1)
18. Black Sabbath (-1)
19. Deep Purple (No Change)
20. Nazareth (-2)
Vinyl added - ZZ Top Fandango
Concert attended- Point Blank and ZZ Top- March 23, 1977. Cost on stub (I kept 'em all) was $7.00 - Fantastic Concert. Gave it 3 1/2 stars at the time. Pretty much all of their catalog was covered. That is how energetic they were. Band played close to 4 hours, and at about midnight Billy announced they were going to play until no one was left. Sadly, the Civic Center turned on the lights after the next tune. 9999hair out0000. ZZ Top is a Texas institution, and are true legends.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6c7d8BYJy8I (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6c7d8BYJy8I)
-
April 1977 List
1. Led Zeppelin- (No change)
2. Aerosmith (No change)
3. Boston (No Change)
4. Moody Blues (No Change)
5. Rush (No change)
6. Foghat (No change)
7. Emerson Lake and Palmer (No change)
8. Kiss (No change)
9. ZZ Top (+7)
10. The Who (-1)
11. Queen (-1)
12. Chicago (-1)
13. Robin Trower (No Change)
14. Steve Miller (No change)
15. Deep Purple (+4)
16. Synergy (-4)
17. BTO (-2)
18. Alice Cooper (-1)
19. Black Sabbath (-1)
20 Nazareth (No change)
Vinyl/Tape additions-
Rick Wakeman- Journey to the Center of the Earth
Aerosmith- Rocks
10 Years After- Live
In tonight's episode of rock history on film, we get an idea of what happens when you mix a free concert, 300,000 mind altered hippies , and a security contingent of Hell's Angels at the Altamont Music Festival on December 6, 1969. During the Rolling Stones set, all hell breaks loose, culminating in the stabbing and killing of a concert goer. There were many other security problems and incidents that marred what became the biggest "non-crushing" diaster of a music festival in history.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pqK-J9S2GXs (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pqK-J9S2GXs)
-
Hells Angels f'ed that all up. I think Grace Slick got punched out by one of them.
-
1977 - Eric Clapton - The Core
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xutO4ZfkV3s)
-
1977 - ELO
Turn to Stone
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gIOijJfrHas)
Mr. Blue Sky
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aQUlA8Hcv4s)
-
Hells Angels f'ed that all up. I think Grace Slick got punched out by one of them.
Whole festival was a CF. It effectively ended the Woodstock era.
-
1977 - AC/DC
Whole Lotta Rosie (Live 1978 w/Bon Scott)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z62MX8phKfk)
-
May 1977 List
1. Led Zeppelin- (No change)
2. Boston (+1)
3. Aerosmith (-1)
4. Moody Blues (No change)
5. Emerson Lake and Palmer (+2)
6. Foghat (No change)
7. Rush (-2)
8. Eagles (New)
9. Kiss (-1)
10. ZZ Top (-1)
11. Queen (No change)
12. The Who (-2)
13. Ted Nugent (New)
14. Chicago (-2)
15. Steve Miller (-1)
16. Deep Purple (-1)
17. Kansas (New)
18. Nazareth (+2)
19. Robin Trower (-6)
20. BTO (-3)
New Vinyl/tapes added-
Eagles- Hotel California
Big month of additions-
Eagles- Probably not much I can cover about the Eagles that you already don't know. They were the most significant country-tinged rock band on the scene, and sold 10's of millions of records even before Hotel California. In the early days, I thought they were pretty good, but maybe just not my cup of tea. Then in 1976...BAM!!! They added Joe Walsh, and became a powerhouse. These guys were already some of the best song writers in the business, but then add Walsh's edge? It was fantastic blend, and Hotel California and the The Long Run is what I consider the golden age of the Eagles. I leave you my favorite song from Hotel California. It is the Eagles most beautiful and heartful tune.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ETN21RZwwI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ETN21RZwwI)
Ted Nugent- Before Uncle Ted was knocking liberal heads, he was pretty much apolitical. He had a significant 10 year stint with the Amboy Dukes being the backbone ax of a heavy sound, including some work that is considered some of the first in the psychedelia genre. No doubt was Ted was a maniac with wide ranging riffs on his Gibson. It's a long listen, but I am adding Stranglhold for Nugent's sample tune on this post. Great White Buffalo is a fine tune, if you want more of him from that mid 70's era.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O1H0vkZTZOk (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O1H0vkZTZOk)
Kansas-There are few more talented than Kansas in execution in both studio and live. As you can see as my tastes evolved, you are seeing more singer songrwriters, and PROG. There aren't too many albums presently that I like to listen to in their entirety. Leftoverture is an exception. This album and the next "Point of No Return" dominated air play, our dormitories, and 8 tracks all around. Now the fact that Kansas is not in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, is absolutely criminal. Everyone who knows anything about rock and roll knows how influential and powerful this band is. They don't need validation from a dozen Rolling Stoned Magazine short bus dwellers.
Rather than provide the heavily played "Carry on Wayward Son" and "Dust in the Wind", I am adding a more obscure, though no less of a masterpiece. Sparks of the Tempest has great complexity and melodic sensibilites that in some ways blends a number of Kansas' styles into a single song.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tXh4pw5EYHI&list=PLxzSZG7g8c8zwGJj0vJUfBEDsQXtL-Zlt&index=8 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tXh4pw5EYHI&list=PLxzSZG7g8c8zwGJj0vJUfBEDsQXtL-Zlt&index=8)
-
I also enjoyed the Kansas album that came out before Leftoverture. Masque was less known, but every bit as complex. “Two Cents Worth”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tTEo2yHVTSo
-
June 1977 List
1. Led Zeppelin (No change)
2. Boston (No change)
3. Aerosmith (No change)
4. Emerson Lake and Palmer (+1)
5. Moody Blues (-1)
6. Rush (+1)
7. Foghat (-1)
8. ZZ Top (+2)
9. Eagles (-1)
10. Queen (+1)
11. Robin Trower (+8)
12. Kiss (-3)
13. The Who (-1)
14. Nazareth (+4)
15. Deep Purple (+1)
16. Chicago (-2)
17. Steve Miller (-2)
18. Black Sabbath (New)
19. Ted Nugent (-6)
20. BTO (No change)
Vinyl/tape additions-
Rush- All the World's a Stage
Yes- Fragile
Enjoy this symphonic versiom of "And You and I" by Yes. I beleive this is one of the last viewable performances of this tune by the great Chris Squire. Sadly he died in 2015
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AYmeJlm7Gcg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AYmeJlm7Gcg)
-
Aerosmith - "Dream On" - with orchestra
www.youtube.com/watch?v=EbKvBT9F0Vo
-
July 1997 List
1. Led Zeppelin- (No change)
2. Boston (No change)
3. Rush (+3)
4. Aerosmith (-1)
5. Emerson Lake and Palmer (-1)
6. ZZ Top (+2)
7, Moody Blues (-2)
8. Foghat (-1)
9. Eagles (No change)
10. Robin Trower (+1)
11. Queen (-1)
12. Kiss (No change)
13. Deep PUrple (+2)
14. Nazareth (No change)
15. The Who (-2)
16. Sweet (New)
17. Chicago (-1)
18. Alice Cooper (New)
19. Black Sabbath (-1)
20. Ted Nugent (-1)
Vinyl/Tapes added- None
Concert: Rick Derringer and Alice Cooper - July 1, 1977
Let me start with a preface... As you have seen on these lists, I had quite an admiration for AC and especially his stage show, which still to this day is among the best in rock history. With that, I wanted to make sure I got a front row (literally) seat to the event, and got there early to stand in place front and center to the stage. Derringer played his hits in about a 45 minute set with no problems. Everybody got to see Rock and Roll Hoochie Too
When AC entered the stage, the crowd surged forward, and by the first 1/3 of the first song, I among several others were severely pinned against the plank of the stage. It felt like my lungs were getting crushed, and every breath was a ghasp of almost nothing. When someone finally noticed on stage, an individual came out and started screaming.... Everyone on the Floor 2 steps back NOW!!!!... Everyone on the Floor 3 Steps back NOW!!! The crowd start dispersing back, but by then I noticed about 10-15 feet away a young petite girl and another kid had passed out from the crush of the crowd. After a couple of minutes of pleaing for the crowd to move back, a couple of paramedics made it to the kids, and they were pulled out of the crowd. It is hard to explain how harrowing it is, to think you are crushed and strangulated from the sheer force of a few hundred people behind you trying to get to the stage. I do not know what the final outcome of these kids, but it didn't make any news. Likely because the venue was run by the city.
But the concert itself? Stage show was fabuous, as this was the show supporting the "Lace and Whisky Tour". But it seems he kept the "Welcome to My Nighmare" stage theme. Great effects and props. Did not like seeing the band without founding memebers, or like the fact that AC was drunk and slurring his lyrics. The bruisng arond my upper torso came at no charge.
[/color]
This is pretty much how I remembered it....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UqEVYNTdc3c (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UqEVYNTdc3c)
-
1977 - A Farewell to Kings album - (recorded in the UK)
Xanadu
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SEuOoMprDqg)
Cygnus X-1
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vFj0refg2jk)
-
1977 - A Farewell to Kings album - (recorded in the UK)
Xanadu
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SEuOoMprDqg)
Cygnus X-1
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vFj0refg2jk)
Like the other Rush.... Talent on Loan from God!!!!!!
-
More Kansas from 1977
Portrait
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=scT-77nwRAo)
-
1977 - Iggy Pop (Live)
Lust for Life
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y2D4S1K8HWI)
-
Like the other Rush.... Talent on Loan from God!!!!!!
Wait for Cygnus X-1 Book 2
-
July 1997 List
1. Led Zeppelin- (No change)
2. Boston (No change)
3. Rush (+3)
4. Aerosmith (-1)
5. Emerson Lake and Palmer (-1)
6. ZZ Top (+2)
7, Moody Blues (-2)
8. Foghat (-1)
9. Eagles (No change)
10. Robin Trower (+1)
11. Queen (-1)
12. Kiss (No change)
13. Deep PUrple (+2)
14. Nazareth (No change)
15. The Who (-2)
16. Sweet (New)
17. Chicago (-1)
18. Alice Cooper (New)
19. Black Sabbath (-1)
20. Ted Nugent (-1)
Vinyl/Tapes added- None
Concert: Rick Derringer and Alice Cooper - July 1, 1977
Let me start with a preface... As you have seen on these lists, I had quite an admiration for AC and especially his stage show, which still to this day is among the best in rock history. With that, I wanted to make sure I got a front row (literally) seat to the event, and got there early to stand in place front and center to the stage. Derringer played his hits in about a 45 minute set with no problems. Everybody got to see Rock and Roll Hoochie Too
When AC entered the stage, the crowd surged forward, and by the first 1/3 of the first song, I among several others were severely pinned against the plank of the stage. It felt like my lungs were getting crushed, and every breath was a ghasp of almost nothing. When someone finally noticed on stage, an individual came out and started screaming.... Everyone on the Floor 2 steps back NOW!!!!... Everyone on the Floor 3 Steps back NOW!!! The crowd start dispersing back, but by then I noticed about 10-15 feet away a young petite girl and another kid had passed out from the crush of the crowd. After a couple of minutes of pleaing for the crowd to move back, a couple of paramedics made it to the kids, and they were pulled out of the crowd. It is hard to explain how harrowing it is, to think you are crushed and strangulated from the sheer force of a few hundred people behind you trying to get to the stage. I do not know what the final outcome of these kids, but it didn't make any news. Likely because the venue was run by the city.
But the concert itself? Stage show was fabuous, as this was the show supporting the "Lace and Whisky Tour". But it seems he kept the "Welcome to My Nighmare" stage theme. Great effects and props. Did not like seeing the band without founding memebers, or like the fact that AC was drunk and slurring his lyrics. The bruisng arond my upper torso came at no charge.
[/color]
This is pretty much how I remembered it....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UqEVYNTdc3c (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UqEVYNTdc3c)
Alice Cooper definitely gives a good stage performance (at times unusual) and we saw him much later in life, but he was still awesome.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=e6CorjwN4wQ
-
August 1977 List
1. Led Zeppelin (No change)
2. Boston (No Change)
3. Rush (No Change)
4. Aerosmith (No change)
5. Moody Blues (+2)
6. Emerson Lake and Palmer (-1)
7. ZZ Top (-1)
8. Foghat (No change)
9. Eagles (No change)
10. Sweet (+6)
11. Queen (No change)
12. Deep Purple (+1)
13. Robin Trower (-3)
14. Kiss (-2)
15. Nazareth (-1)
16. The Who (-1)
17. Black Sabbath (+2)
18. Foreigner (New)
19. Chicago (-2)
20. Alice Cooper (-2)
Vinyl/Tape additions- None
Foreigner- Very very good band that had excellent song writing skills, and got huge airplay in the 70's. All of their first 5 albums charted in the Top 5 in the U.S. And honestly, only the first 5 are worth listening to. It kind of seemed they hit a brick wall after Agent Provacteur, and the creative juices evaporated. Feels Like the First Time, Cold as Ice, Hot Blooded, Urgent, Juke Box Hero, and I want to Know What Love Is........ All in a huge streak a big hits, that kept Foreigner on the radio for pretty much 10 years.
-
Long Long Way From Home
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YhZqA6_ALqg)
-
1977 - Bad Company - Burning Sky
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L40QtUe2WG8)
-
1977 - Styx - Grand Illusion album
Fooling Yourself
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=apTy_Wez4V4)
-
September 1977 List
1. Boston (+1)
2. Led Zeppelin (-1)
3. Rush (No change)
4. Aerosmith (No change)
5. Moody Blues (No Change)
6. Fleetwood Mac (New)
7. Emerson Lake and Palmer (-1)
8. Eagles (No Change)
9. ZZ Top (-2)
10. Foghat (-2)
11. Sweet (-1)
12. Queen (-1)
13. Steve Miller Band (New)
14. Deep Purple (-2)
15. Robin Trower (-2)
16. Kiss (-2)
17. Alice Cooper (+3)
18. Peter Frampton (New)
19. The Who (-3)
20. Black Sabbath (-3)
Vinyl/Tapes Added- None
Fleetwood Mac- . Fleetwood Mac was a slightly obsure to the main rock community, but had built up a nice following for those tending strongly in the English Bluesy bands of the '60's. Looking it up, the highest that the original Fleetwood Mac would chart in the U.S was No.34. Relatively tepid considering at this point the group had had 10 studio albums.
That all changed with a tidal wave for the next album and beyond, when the group added the couple of Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks. The Next 5 albums would all be in the Top 10. Rumours was at the time the largest selling album of all time. 15X Platinum.
And of course I had a significant crush on Stevie Nicks..... Others may have Farrah Fawcett Majors on their dorm wall. Not Me. I had a sweating Stevie poster with her singing. Super sexy woman, with maybe the sexyist voice of all time? Before digressing more, I want to pick a number from MY favorite FM album... Tusk. This album does great justice showing how underrated and under appreciated Buckingham's guitar work was. If you've never listened to Tusk, in its entirety, you are missing out.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uj2k99lGAmI&list=OLAK5uy_l4jG1YrbpjxAqzfy5HgYu0gZEpHBsjr9c&index=15 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uj2k99lGAmI&list=OLAK5uy_l4jG1YrbpjxAqzfy5HgYu0gZEpHBsjr9c&index=15)
-
October 1977 List
1. Boston (No change)
2. Led Zeppelin (No Change)
3. Rush (No change)
4. Moody Blues (+1)
5. Aerosmith (-1)
6. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
7. Emerson Lake and Palmer (No change)
8. Eagles (No change)
9. Foghat (+1)
10. ZZ Top (-1)
11. Steve Miller Band (+2)
12. Queen (No change)
13. Sweet (-2)
14. Peter Frampton (+4)
15. Alice Cooper (+2)
16. Deep Purple (-2)
17. Robin Trower (-2)
18. Kiss (-2)
19. The Who (No change)
20. Black Sabbath (No change)
Vinyl/Tapes added-
Rush- Farewell To Kings
Ted Nugent- Cat Scratch Fever
Speaking of Ted, love this classic......
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0YpzEKRH3_Y (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0YpzEKRH3_Y)
-
November 1977 List
1. Boston (No change)
2. Led Zeppelin (No change)
3. Rush (No change)
4. Aerosmith (+1)
5. Moody Blues (-1)
6. Emerson Lake Palmer (+1)
7. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
8. Foghat (+1)
9. Eagles (-1)
10. Ted Nugent (New)
11. ZZ Top (-1)
12. Steve Miller Band (-1)
13. Blue Oyster Cult (New)
14. Queen (-2)
15. Peter Frampton (-1)
16. Sweet (-3)
17. Robin Trower (No change)
18. Alice Cooper (-3)
19. Kiss (-1)
20. Black Sabbath (No Change)
Vinyl/tapes added- None
Blue Oyster Cult- Very technically astute heavy rockers who blend great musicanship with showmanship. There's a lot more about this band than an SNL Cowbell skit.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3R8A1_3ybiQ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3R8A1_3ybiQ)
Concert Attended: Cheap Trick and Blue Oyster Cult- November 3, 1977 (cost on stub- $7.00)
Best to date. Cheap Cheap was just coming out, and was really good. Blue Oyster Cult? All I can say is wow. It had their infamous laser show where ther guitarist would shoot his laser from his wrist into a spinning disco ball, and the lasers would scatter and bounce all over the place. Incredible.!!!!! Band was so good too, as this show supported the Agents of Fortune Tour, so all the great ones like Don't Fear the Reaper, and ETI were covered. They even gave the crowd a performance of Godzilla which had not been released yet.
Plus we all had a laugh. Before BOC would take the stage, the disco ball started spinning with color lights reflecting. And all the sudden a disco sound rang out. The boo-ing in the crowd was so loud it shook the rafters. What a hoot.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uIZva-ngHM0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uIZva-ngHM0)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sYkvpNR8BGU (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sYkvpNR8BGU)
-
Speaking of Ted, love this classic......
That's my all-time favorite Nugent song!
This one is live from Germany 1977
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eaCjW_VAmo0)
-
1977 - The Police release their first album
So Lonely
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HQ9lY2LON68)
-
1977 - The Talking Heads release their first album
Psycho Killer (Live, '77)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CTHebFPem6w)
-
1977 also marked the end of Lynyrd Skynyrd only three days after the release of their Street Survivors album. Ronnie Van Zant, and Steve and Cassie Gaines lost their lives in a plane crash enroute to Baton Rouge.
Here is a rare live performance of That Smell from July 1977.
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hib4n9RmFrQ)
And for any other Skynyrd fans, here is the whole concert from Asbury Park, NJ. Personally, I believe Lynyrd Skynyrd was musically one of the tightest bands of all time.
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FbMVdXLDRWQ)
-
1977 - Jethro Tull releases Songs From the Wood album. More folkish than rock.
The Whistler (the studio cut)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ygYe0Y_z800)
-
December 1977 List
1. Boston (No change)
2. Led Zeppelin (No change)
3. Rush (No change)
4. Aerosmith (No change)
5. Emerson Lake and Palmer (+1)
6. Moody Blues (-1)
7. Ted Nugent (+3)
8. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
9. Eagles (No change)
10. Foghat (-2)
11. ZZ Top (No change)
12. Blue Oyster Cult (+1)
13. Steve Miller Band (-1)
14. Robin Trower (+3)
15. Queen (-1)
16. Nazareth (New)
17. Sweet (-1)
18. Alice Cooper (No change)
19. Kiss (No change)
20. Peter Frampton (-5)
Vinyl/Tapes additions
Led Zeppelin- Self Titled
Kiss - Destroyer
ZZ Top- Fandango
Black Sabbath - Paranoid
Guilty Pleasures Night- Okay .. admit it, there is a certain group, performer, or music that isn't classic rock that you like. You know... those which would have embarrassed you if your buddies knew, you'd catch all kind of hell from them. MIne which i am not apologetic is classical music. Pop wise, I will have to admit that Abba was my so called guilty pleasure. While my Stevie Nicks poster was obviously cool, putting up one of Agnetha. :cool:.... just wouldn't have been acceptable.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lcW4WAOT1us (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lcW4WAOT1us)
-
More memories of 1977.....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C11MzbEcHlw (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C11MzbEcHlw)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I_2D8Eo15wE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I_2D8Eo15wE)
-
1977 - Heart - Magazine album
Heartless (Live)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BnI9MdpaMjA)
-
1977 - The Clash debuts on the punk scene with their first album
Career Opportunities (Live)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MsE5NAAU39k)
-
The tripod of the 1977 birth of punk ... Clash (See above)
Ramones....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=268C3N2dDYk (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=268C3N2dDYk)
and Sex Pistols
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=emVigxNJhjA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=emVigxNJhjA)
-
1977 - Alan Parsons Project releases second album - I, Robot. Not a bad song on the entire album.
Wouldn't Want to Be Like You
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lUzyJWgCqJk)
-
1977 - Supertramp
Give a Little Bit
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JrPgBFQm5Zo)
-
January 1978 List
1. Boston (No change)
2. Led Zeppelin (No change)
3. Rush (No change)
4. Aerosmith (No change)
5. Ted Nugent (+2)
6. Emerson Lake and Palmer (-1)
7. Eagles (+2)
8. Foghat (+2)
9. Moody Blues (-3)
10. Fleetwood Mac (-2)
11. ZZ Top (No change)
12. Steve Miller Band (+1)
13. Robin Trower (+1)
14. Blue Oyster Cult (-2)
15. Queen (No change)
16. REO Speedwagon (New)
17. Nazareth (-1)
18. Sweet (-1)
19. Alice Cooper (-1)
20. Kiss (-1)
Vinyl/Tapes Added
Boz Scags- Silk Degrees
Eagles- Hotel California
Peter Frampton- Frampton Comes Alive
Alice Cooper- Killer
Ramones- Self Titled
Bruce Springsteen- Born to Run
REO Speedwagon- This one was kind of a mystery to me, since before putting up this compliation, I couldn't remember a song before before 1978, with I guess the exception of Riding the Storm Out. This band didn't really make it big until the early '80's. But by that time, their style was more pop influenced than rock. I guess if I have to provide a sample, I'll add this.....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GVFgEBq0EKM (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GVFgEBq0EKM)
-
1978 - Bob Seger
Hollywood Nights
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UhuVwVpr3WY)
-
1978 - The Who
Who Are You?
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LYb_nqU_43w)
-
1978 - REO Speedwagon - You Can Tune a Piano, But You Can't Tuna Fish album
This is the song I want to have played at my funeral: Roll With the Changes
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nEidbkibsiE)
-
February 1978
1. Boston (No charge)
2. Rush (+1)
3. Led Zeppelin (-1)
4. Aerosmith (No change)
5. Emerson Lake and Palmer (+1)
6. Ted Nugent (-1)
7. Foghat (+1)
8. Bruce Springsteen (New)
9. Eagles (-2)
10. Moody Blues (-1)
11. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
12. Queen (+3)
13. Boz Scaggs (New)
14. Peter Frampton (New)
15. ZZ Top (-4)
16. Steve Miller (-4)
17. Alice Cooper (+2)
18. Robin Trower (-5)
19. Nazareth (-2)
20. Kiss (No change)
Vinyl/Tapes added
Boston- Self titled (replaced old copy -worn out)
Eagles- Greatest Hits
Steve Miller- Fly Like an Eagle
Bruce Springsteen- Yep, this socialist piece of shit made the list in the late '70's, at a time that corresponded with his only good album. I absolutley detest springsteen, and view him as the most over-rated two bit Rolling Stoned pushed hyped piece of garbage in history. F--K Springsteen, In fact he gets the honor of the only act on this list not getting a sample video in this narrative on rock history.
Boz Scaggs-- Not a hard rocker, not a prog act, but a guy who made some catchy what might be considered soft rock tunes in that era. His act was filled with super solid session guys who gave a good technical base for listeners. Often a good choice for parking for mood music. Here is my favorite from his catalog. if you are old enouhg, I am certain you will remember it.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HQZBaJAngH8 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HQZBaJAngH8)
-
March 1978 List
1. Boston (No change)
2. Rush (No change)
3. Led Zeppelin (No change)
4. Aerosmith (No change)
5. Eagles (+4)
6. Foghat (+1)
7. Emerson Lake and Palmer (-2)
8. Ted Nugent (-2)
9. Bruce Springsteen (-1)
10. Moody Blues (No change)
11. Steve Miller Band (+5)
12. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
13. Boz Scaggs (No chagne)
14. Queen (-2)
15. ZZ Top (No change)
16. Peter Frampton (-2)
17. Chicago (New)
18. Alice Cooper (-1)
19. Nazreth (No change)
20. Robin Trower (-2)
Vinyl/Tape added
Karla Bonoff- Won it off the radio as the Xth caller. Anyone for frisbee?
Aerosmith- Draw the Line
Linda Ronstadt- Hasten Down the Wind
Remember when she had great beauty and voice? Now she's just a left wing activist hag.
(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/e1/5d/54/e15d54b441157bf4a5422c492fbfd629.jpg)
One of the greatest radio friendly rocking albums of the late '70's was "Book of Dreams" by Steve Miller Band. What a solid LP, little or no filler.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x0fpWz0wznw (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x0fpWz0wznw)
-
1978 - Rolling Stones, Some Girls album
Shattered
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5IvxpNTNmzs)
-
1978 - Dire Straits
Sultans of Swing
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0fAQhSRLQnM)
-
1978 - Van Halen debuts with first album. Here's a twofer
Ain't Talkin' 'Bout Love
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qtwBFz6lfrY)
I'm the One
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EllEztdbBhg)
-
1978 - Rolling Stones, Some Girls album
Shattered
Wow the lyrics have never been more timely for NYC......
-
April 1978 List
1. Boston (No change)
2. Rush (No change)
3. Led Zeppelin (No change)
4. Aerosmith (No change)
5. Eagles (No change)
6. Ted Nugent (+2)
7. Foghat (-1)
8. Emerson Lake and Palmer (-1)
9. Moody Blues (+1)
10. Steve Miller Band (+1)
11. Boz Scaggs (+2)
12. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
13. Bruce Springsteen (-4)
14. Chicago (+3)
15. ZZ Top (No change)
16. Queen (-2)
17. Kansas (New)
18. Nazareth (+1)
19. Robin Trower (+1)
20. Peter Frampton (-4)
Vinyl/Tapes added
10 Years After- Greatest Hits
The Moody Blues- Days of Future Past
Question for debate... What was the first progessive rock album?
Pet Sounds from The Beach Boys?- May 1966
Sgt Peppers from the Beatles?- May 1967
In the Court of the Crimson King by King Crimson?- October 1969
The Thoughts of Emerlist Davjack by The Nice?- March 1968
The Piper at the Gates of Dawn by Pink Floyd? August 1967
My opinion it is the Days of Future Past by the Moody Blues, released in November 1967
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZCzH8q1hcY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZCzH8q1hcY)
But again, just my opinion.
-
Question for debate... What was the first progessive rock album?
Pet Sounds from The Beach Boys?- May 1966
Sgt Peppers from the Beatles?- May 1967
In the Court of the Crimson King by King Crimson?- October 1969
The Thoughts of Emerlist Davjack by The Nice?- March 1968
The Piper at the Gates of Dawn by Pink Floyd? August 1967
Might want to toss this one in the mix.
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_BADDeIQWVQ)
To me personally, the Moody Blues and Pink Floyd were cutting edge. But overall, 'Yes' defined progressive rock. If you want to go back to Mabel Greer's Toyshop, they were active in 1966. But Yes' first album wasn't released until 1969.
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MyteedDgscc)
-
Here's another band that debuted in 1978 - The Cars
Just What I Needed (Live, '78)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TsPh-EgH65M)
Moving in Stereo (Live, '78)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U6_A-4ETTk4)
-
Agree. Yes, probably was the true first pure prog rock band. And when you look at consensus polls, they and Pink Floyd are considered the greatest. Early early Pink Floyd was more a mix of the three (Prog, psychedelia, and general rock)
-
May 1978 List
1. Boston (No change)
2. Aerosmith (+2)
3. Rush (-1)
4. Led Zeppelin (-1)
5. Fleetwood Mac (+7)
6. Eagles (-1)
7. Emerson Lake and Palmer (-1)
8. Foghat (-1)
9. Ted Nugent (-3)
10. Moody Blues (-1)
11. Kansas (+6)
12. Stever Miller (-2)
13. Bob Seger (New)
14. Styx (New)
15. Boz Scaggs (-4)
16. Bruce Soringsteen (-3)
17. Chicago (-3)
18. ZZ Top (-3)
19. Queen (-3)
20. Nazareth (-2)
Vinyl/Tapes added
Kansas- Point of Know Return
Bob Seger- - Legendary rocker with incredible catalog of massive hits and overall good album content through out the '70's and '80's. As I mentioned in an earlier post, his best (IMO) LP, "Against the Wind" is in my favorite 10 albums of all time. I can count maybe 15-20 albums in history, where there are no bad tracks in the entire work..... This album is one of them..
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h2hel2M5frs&list=OLAK5uy_muBO77-EqdgqCC8mThJz6_ALiHa6RySTk&index=4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h2hel2M5frs&list=OLAK5uy_muBO77-EqdgqCC8mThJz6_ALiHa6RySTk&index=4)
-
1978 - Styx, Pieces of Eight album
Renegade
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E9eLz4DrwF8)
-
1978 - AC/DC - Powerage album
Rock and Roll Damnation
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oRgaWqY6EYQ)
-
1978 - Cheap Trick
Surrender
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2fIt9Alo39Q)
-
Can't believe I overlooked this band. The Doobie Brothers
1972 - Rocking Down the Highway
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zqtrE-iZsz0)
1973 - China Grove
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RX7iHsAIw9o)
-
Great version of this Doobies song. The sax solo is something to behold.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3AsoLlavSTk
-
June 1978 List
1. Boston (No change)
2. Aerosmith (No change)
3. Led Zeppelin (+1)
4. Rush (-1)
5. Kansas (+6)
6. Eagles (No change)
7. Foghat (+1)
8. Emerson Lake and Palmer (-1)
9. Styx (+5)
10. Fleetwood Mac (-5)
11. Ted Nugent (-2)
12. Moody Blues (-2)
13. Bob Seger (No change)
14. Steve Miller Band (-2)
15. Boz Scaggs (No change)
16. ZZ Top )(+2)
17. Chicago (No change)
18. Queen (+1)
19. Nazareth (+1)
20. Bruce Springsteen (-4)
Vinyl/Tapes added-
Grand Funk- Survival
Thought a nice topic for the day would be a small listing of rock's greatest covers... What I am adding is just my opinion of what the best 5 were. How and which tunes would you put on that list?
1. Simon and Garfunkel's Sound of Silence by Disturbed. Not only do I think this is the best of all time, but it is 5X better than the original
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u9Dg-g7t2l4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u9Dg-g7t2l4)
2. Bob Dylan's All along the Watchtower by Jimi Hendrix. If you were to ask 10 people to name 10 songs which embodied the 1960's I'd venture nearly half would list this song. Cinema sure does.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OzlN0Guvous (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OzlN0Guvous)
3. Nine Inch Nail's Hurt, covered by Johnny Cash- Moving emotional video with song that basically captured Cash' long illustious career in 4 minutes.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8AHCfZTRGiI (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8AHCfZTRGiI)
4. Little Help From My Friends by the Beatles, covered by Joe Cocker-
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rUVEFkjqiEE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rUVEFkjqiEE)
5. Old old timey blues tune from the '20's When the Levee Breaks- Covered by Led Zeppelin, which happens to be my favorite Zeppelin tune.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8j7oT2I8Nz8 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8j7oT2I8Nz8)
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1978 - Patti Smith, Easter album
Rock N Roll N*gga (Not yet cancelled)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DLIkM4wvcC8)
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More 1978 Punk - Elvis Costello
Pump It Up
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Y71iDvCYXA)
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More 1978 Punk - The Ramones
I Wanna Be Sedated
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bm51ihfi1p4)
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And now something to cleanse the palate: (Punk is not really my thing. Too NYC for my taste.)
1978 - Joe Walsh
Life's Been Good
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pF25Pwxp7V0)
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TRAFFIC - Forty Thousand Headmen
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zgc0qPo8FgI# (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zgc0qPo8FgI#)
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July 1978 List
1. Boston (No change)
2. Aerosmith (No change)
3. Led Zeppelin (No change)
4. Rush (No change)
5. Eagles (+1)
6, Kansas (-1)
7. Foghat (No change)
8. Styx (+1)
9. Emerson Lake and Palmer (-1)
10. Moody Blues (+2)
11. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
12. Ted Nugent (-1)
13. Steve Miller Band (+1)
14. Boz Scaggs (+1)
15. Bob Seger (-2)
16. ZZ Top (No change)
17. Chicago (No change)
18. Nazareth (+1)
19. Queen (-1)
20. Bruce Springsteen (No change)
Vinyl/Tape Additions-
Fleetwood Mac- Rumours
Remember the buzz around syncing DSOTM and the Wizard of Oz? And how so much of the film followed the dynamics of the song. 25 years ago or so, I went to the trouble of setting it up. Nowadays, YT does if for you. If you ask me, I just didn't see enough of the so called "coincidences" that would make me think there was any intentional intent by Pink Floyd. You can see it for yourself, if so inclined.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NtExVJlgEC0&t=772s (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NtExVJlgEC0&t=772s)
This web site gives a narrative of the sync, and the film similarities to how the music progresses.....
https://www.goldminemag.com/features/how-to-view-the-wizard-of-oz-with-dark-side-of-the-moon (https://www.goldminemag.com/features/how-to-view-the-wizard-of-oz-with-dark-side-of-the-moon)
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For the Southern Rock scene, 1978 marked the end of Lynyrd Skynyrd as we knew them and the troubled reunion of the Allman Brothers. But there were some bright spots as well. Atlanta Rhythm Section put out their best album, Champaign Jam. And Molly Hatchet broke out of the same State that had given us Lynyrd Skynyrd.
ARS - Not Gonna Let It Bother Me Tonight (Live Recording, Doraville, GA 1979)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nazyvzJYPv8)
Molly Hatchet - Gator Country
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PTR13MV4fqc)
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Great version of this Doobies song. The sax solo is something to behold.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3AsoLlavSTk
Wolf Trap is one heck of a venue. The sound carries so well. Never saw the Doobies live, but a friend of mine who did said they put on a fantastic show.
During Jethro Tull's final tour, one of the shows was at Wolf Trap. This instantly became a bucket list item for me. But unfortunately I was stuck offshore and had no chance of making that show.
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You guys listen to vinyl? My wife bought me a record player, still haven't set it up.
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You guys listen to vinyl? My wife bought me a record player, still haven't set it up.
Belt drive or direct drive?
Can't let vinyl get hot. I remember accidentally leaving an AC/DC album in a hot car. The warp wave was about half an inch, but it still played without skipping.
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I listen to Vinyl quite often, at least once a week and I buy new music on vinyl. I have 2 turntables, one a Technics direct drive and in my office a Panasonic belt drive. I have managed to keep all my records through the years, which is remarkable.
(https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/4ecb0e64c484492695da7fa360d1a6e11ae1f2bc0010698ec98a69e6c127b17d.jpg)
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Belt drive or direct drive?
Can't let vinyl get hot. I remember accidentally leaving an AC/DC album in a hot car. The warp wave was about half an inch, but it still played without skipping.
lol...I think we all learned that lesson...... once.
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Belt drive or direct drive?
Can't let vinyl get hot. I remember accidentally leaving an AC/DC album in a hot car. The warp wave was about half an inch, but it still played without skipping.
I had a couple of vinyls that warped like that, and they were still playable afterward. It was a little strange watching the stylus move up and down so much, but they played. I'm sure an audiophile could have found the degradation of the sound easily, but then I'm not and never have been an audiophile.
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August 1978 list
1. Boston (No change)
2. Aerosmith (No change)
3. Rush (+1)
4. Led Zeppelin (-1)
5. Eagles (No change)
6. Foghat (+1)
7. Kansas (-1)
8. Foreigner (New)
9. Styx (-1)
10. Moody Blues (No change)
11. Emerson Lake and Palmer (-2)
12. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
13. Al Stewart (New)
14. Steve Miller (-1)
15. Boz Scaggs (-1)
16. Bob Seger (-1)
17. Ted Nugent (-5)
18. Chicago (-1)
19. ZZ Top (-3)
20. Nazareth (-2)
Vinyl/Tape additions
Al Stewart- Year of the Cat
Boston - Don't Look Back (most anxiously anticipated album since Physical Graffiti- bought August 18, 1978
Van Halen- Self title (will cover VH in next installment- bought August 29, 1978)
Foreigner- Really really liked this band. Though a tad formulaic, they were excellent song writers, and wrote tunes that rocked. "Hot Blooded" was easily one of my top 3 favorite tunes of that year. Their first 5 studio albums ALL made it into the Top 5 Billboard sales. They paid off like a slot machine with good albums and an obligatory 2-4 hits per album. Got to see them about 6 years later in their Agent Provocateur tour, and it did not disappoint.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ug1qRiLUwac (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ug1qRiLUwac)
Al Stewart- Kind of flash in the pan, two hit wonder singer song writer who did okay with Year of the Cat and Time Passages. 11 of his 16 albums didn't even make it into the Top 100.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5bvw4yDvRX0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5bvw4yDvRX0)
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1978 - Gerry Rafferty
Right Down the Line
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NSfOB8ANdWU)
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1978 - Neil Young
Comes a Time
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=opEKjCiuDBs)
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September 1978 List
1. Boston- (No change)
2. Aerosmith (No change)
3. Led Zeppelin (+1)
4. Van Halen (New)
5. Rush (-2)
6. Foreigner (+2)
7. Foghat (-1)
8. Eagles (-3)
9. Kansas (-2)
10. Styx (-1)
11. Moody Blues (-1)
12. Bob Seger (+4)
13. Emerson Lake and Palmer (-2)
14. Fleetwood Mac (-2)
15. Al Stewart (-2)
16. Boz Scaggs (-1)
17. Chicago (+1)
18. ZZ Top (+1)
19. Steve Miller Band (-5)
20. Ted Nugent (-3)
New Vinyl/Tapes
Rush- Archives
Mott the Hoople- Live
Van Halen- The guitar wizardry of Eddie Van Halen is well documented, and out like a buzz saw in their entire collection. No one, and I mean no one had ever sounded like this. VH had many hits that are etched in archive now on classic rock FM stations. They sold a plethora of albums over nearly 25 years, and spawned one of the oldest debates in rock. David Lee Roth vs Sammy Hagar. Personally, I love their big hits, and their are close to a dozen that clog my Ipod. But one other fact in my opinion is that as good as VH was, many of their albums had 2nd and 3rd tier filler that pretty much was unlistenable. Here's my favorite cut from the band.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E-rTKd-Alk8 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E-rTKd-Alk8)
Now for an anecdotal tale of the time... On September 8, 1978, I parked my car in front of my university library, sat my first serious girl friend on the hood of my car. Cranked up this tune on my Craig Power Play 8-Track, and sang the song it to her, as if I was Joey himself. Afterwards, I got applause much like it would be at movie scene. :cool:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BDvtkIp8UU4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BDvtkIp8UU4)
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Van Halen- The guitar wizardry of Eddie Van Halen is well documented, and out like a buzz saw in their entire collection. No one, and I mean no one had ever sounded like this. VH had many hits that are etched in archive now on classic rock FM stations. They sold a plethora of albums over nearly 25 years, and spawned one of the oldest debates in rock. David Lee Roth vs Sammy Hagar. Personally, I love their big hits, and their are close to a dozen that clog my Ipod. But one other fact in my opinion is that as good as VH was, many of their albums had 2nd and 3rd tier filler that pretty much was unlistenable. Here's my favorite cut from the band.
I swear, Van Halen’s first album was life-changing. Loved it. Spent an entire summer listening to it. Never really liked any of their music after that. And I preferred Sammy Hagar when he was with Montrose.
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1978 - Van Halen
Little Dreamer
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kbixKDRxIz0)
Ice Cream Man (Live '77)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bC6qKnqfAb8)
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1978 - Rush - Hemispheres
[Best Rush album ever. This album and Farewell to Kings (with Cygnus X-1 Book 1) were the only two recorded in Wales.]
Cygnus X-1 Book 2
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7uXCfDRddC0)
I. PRELUDE
When our weary world was young
The struggle of the ancients first began
The gods of Love and Reason
Sought alone to rule the fate of Man
They battled through the ages
But still neither force would yield
The people were divided,
Every soul a battlefield…
II. APOLLO BRINGER OF WISDOM
‘I bring truth and understanding,
I bring wit and wisdom fair,
Precious gifts beyond compare.
We can build a world of wonder,
I can make you all aware’
‘I will find you food and shelter,
Show you fire to keep you warm
Through the endless winter storm.
You can live in grace and comfort
In the world that you transform’
The people were delighted
Coming forth to claim their prize
They ran to build their cities
And converse among the wise
But one day the streets fell silent
Yet they knew not what was wrong
The urge to build these fine things
Seemed not to be so strong
The wise men were consulted
And the Bridge of Death was crossed
In quest of Dionysus
To find out what they had lost…
III. DIONYSUS BRINGER OF LOVE
‘I bring love to give you solace
In the darkness of the night
In the Heart’s eternal light
You need only trust your feelings
Only Love can steer you right’
‘I bring laughter, I bring Music,
I bring joy and I bring Tears
I will soothe your primal fears
Throw off those chains of Reason
And your prison disappears’
The cities were abandoned
And the forests echoed song
They danced and lived as brothers
They knew Love could not be wrong
Food and wine they had aplenty
And they slept beneath the stars
The people were contented
And the Gods watched from afar
But the winter fell upon them
And it caught them unprepared
Bringing wolves and cold starvation
And the hearts of men despaired…
IV. ARMAGEDDON THE BATTLE OF HEART AND MIND
The Universe divided
As the Heart and Mind collided
With the people left unguided
For so many troubled years
In a cloud of doubts and fears
Their world was torn asunder into hollow hemispheres
Some fought themselves, some fought each other
Most just followed one another
Lost and aimless like their brothers
For their hearts were so unclear
And the truth could not appear
Their spirits were divided into blinded hemispheres
Some who did not fight
Brought tales of old to light
My Rocinante sailed by night
On her final flight
To the heart of Cygnus’ fearsome force
We set our course.
Spiraled through that timeless space
To this immortal place
V. CYGNUS BRINGER OF BALANCE
I have memory and awareness
But I have no shape or form
As a disembodied spirit
I am dead and yet unborn
I have passed into Olympus
As was told in tales of old
To the City of Immortals
Marble white and purest gold
I see the Gods in battle rage on high
Thunderbolts across the sky
I cannot move, I cannot hide
I feel a silent scream begin inside
Then all at once the chaos ceased
A stillness fell, a sudden peace
The Warriors felt my silent cry
And stayed their struggle, mystified
Apollo was astonished
Dionysus thought me mad
But they heard my story further
And they wondered, and were sad
Looking down from Olympus
On a world of doubt and fear
Its surface splintered into
Sorry hemispheres.
They sat a while in silence
Then they turned at last to me
‘We will call you Cygnus
The God of Balance you shall be’
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1978 - Rush
La Villa Strangiato (Live '80)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=igbNYIxyNUo)
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October 1978 List
1. Boston (No change)
2. Aerosmith (No change)
3. Van Halen (+1)
4. Foreigner (+2)
5. Led Zeppelin (-2)
6. Styx (+4)
7. Rush (-2)
8. Eages (No change)
9. Foghat (-2)
10. Kansas (-1)
11. Bob Seger (+1)
12. Moody Blues (-1)
13. Emerson Lake and Palmer (No change)
14. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
15. Al Stewart (No change)
16. ZZ Top (+2)
17. Boz Scaggs (-1)
18. Chicago (-1)
19. Steve Miller Band (No change)
20. Ted Nugent (No change)
Vinyl/Tape additions
Foreigner- Double Vision
Neil Young- Harvest
Bad Company- Straight Shooter
Willie Nelson- Before his Time
Kiss- Rock and Roll Animal
ZZ Top- Rio Grande Mud
Ted Nugent- Live Gonzo
Neil Young- This is about the time (within a year) of a turning point in my musical tastes, where though I continue with Prog tendencies, the Singer Songwriter genre starts seeping in. On surface, NY is easy in my top 10 to this day, but in retrospect in put me in a meloncoly mood for probably a decade. Listening to a lot of sad and retrospective tunes will do that to you. But as far as Neil Young, his career is beyond legend. Think about it, he took part in the response to the British Invasion with Buffalo Springfield, did Woodstock with CSN&Y, broke away as a solo artist, then took the legend to the point of being able to use Pearl Jam as your back up band on an album. He pretty much lived the ultimate rock and roll expeerience.
There was a point in time in the '90's that I owned every NY album, which was no easy feat. With one exception, I enjoyed his absolute chamelon like change of styles that were pretty much trademark for him. I spent many hours with headphones on trying to figure out and interpret his enigmatic lyrics, and what the meanings were. But again, I can't put a finger on why his music could influence a mood so much. In the past 10-15 my listening has dropped considerably. Back then I considered it edgy and profound. Now.... more just kind of whiney.
And finally, I will go on record and say that one of the two concerts of his that I attended, was the absolute worst in my life. Details of that will come later.
For samples, I'll go with a couple that rock, instead of folkilize.
Here's one him doing at age 70+
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bRfiwIhG4gU (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bRfiwIhG4gU)
Shredding the Les Paul this time
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qmKrcOB7udA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qmKrcOB7udA)
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November 1978 List
1. Boston (No change)
2. Aerosmith (No change)
3. Foreigner (+1)
4. Van Halen (-1)
5. Styx (+1)
6. Led Zeppelin (-1)
7. Kansas (+3)
8. Rush (-1)
9. Bob Seger (+2)
10. Eagles (-2)
11. Foghat (-2)
12. Moody Blues (No change)
13. Emerson Lake and Palmer (No change)
14. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
15. Bad Company (New)
16. Ted Nugent (+4)
17. Al stewart (-1)
18. Chicago (No change)
19. Steve Miller Band (No change)
20. ZZ Top (-4)
Vinyl/Tape addtions
None
Maybe the best part of the close of 1978 was that Disco was dying a slow death. The flood of crappy artist were canabalizing their genre into a flood of mediocrity. It was the best of times, and in honor here's an apt tribute to Disco from an AC-DC 1978 performance.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h8xNn4td37k (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h8xNn4td37k)
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1978 - Little Feat releases their first live album Waiting For Columbus, recorded the preceding year in London and Washington, DC.
Join the Band / Fat Man in the Bathtub
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j7TeEoIAAQg)
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1978 - Paul McCartney & Wings release London Town.
With a Little Luck
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FSTtR_I4DyY)
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1978 - Boston - Don't Look Back album.
Party
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9yHwzvC-yNM&t=185s)
A Man I'll Never Be
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gmc_t7m2pC4)
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1978 - Journey, Infinity album.
After three horrible albums, Journey finally gets some traction with its fourth album. Not much of a Journey fan at all, but this song does have some rock to it.
La Do Da
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iLpi2cEYpTI)
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1978 - Journey, Infinity album.
After three horrible albums, Journey finally gets some traction with its fourth album. Not much of a Journey fan at all, but this song does have some rock to it.
La Do Da
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iLpi2cEYpTI)
This and the next (Evolution) are outstanding albums. Just enough Steve Perry to give it the vocal wallop, while allowing Schon and the others to give Journey their rocking sound. Starting with Departure, Perry starts stamping his pop influences into the band's sound, and it was downhill from there.
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I think sometime in 79 Meatloaf is about to hit the charts with BOH
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More memories of 1977.....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C11MzbEcHlw (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C11MzbEcHlw)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I_2D8Eo15wE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I_2D8Eo15wE)
Wow...
Posted these video three days ago, and now Meatloaf's gone.
Have long said, that the era of great music is getting ready to have an almost daily dose of losses as our Rock and Roll Legends age.
Neil Peart a few years ago hit me the worst.
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Posted these video three days ago, and now Meatloaf's gone.
At least he didn't die from taking ivermectin. That would have been so much worse.
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At least he didn't die from taking ivermectin. That would have been so much worse.
Yep, 2 out of 3 a'int bad. (too soon :cool:?)
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Maybe y’all knew this, maybe not. Meatloaf was featured on Ted Nugent’s Free For All album. Sang the two best songs on it.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lpRIw-k1QcI
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t5VbZ8lFxAM
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December 1978 List
1. Boston (No change)
2. Van Halen (+2)
3. Foreigner (No change)
4. Aerosmith (-2)
5. Styx (No change)
6. Bob Seger (+3)
7. Kansas (No change)
8. Led Zeppelin (-2)
9. Rush (-1)
10. Eagles (No change)
11. Foghat (No change)
12. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
13. Moody Blues (-1)
14. Emerson Lake and Palmer (-1)
15. Bad Company (No change)
16. Al Stewart (+1)
17. Chicago (+1)
18. Ted Nugent (-2)
19. Stever Miller (No change)
20. ZZ Top (No change)
Vinyl/Tape Added-
Boston- Self Titled
Aerosmith- Toys in the Attic
Styx- Grand Illusion
Led Zeppelin -IV
Concert: Louisiana LeRoux and Marshall Tucker Band- December 27, 1978 Price on Ticket Stub- $7.50
Was never a fan but went at behest of girl friend. Company was better than concert, but I knew others who really liked this band. Here are few that they were best known for.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SiLUTWcLCgU (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SiLUTWcLCgU)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C4a40FjB_sM (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C4a40FjB_sM)
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January 1979 List
1. Boston (No change)
2. Styx (+3)
3. Foreigner (No change)
4. Aerosmith (No change)
5. Van Halen (-3)
6. Bob Seger (No change)
7. Led Zeppelin (+1)
8. Kansas (-1)
9. Rush (No change)
10. Eagles (No change)
11. Foghat (No change)
12. Moody Blues (+1)
13. Emerson Lake and Palmer (+1)
14. Fleetwood Mac (-2)
15. Chicago (+2)
16. Bad Company (-1)
17. Al Stewart (-1)
18. Steve Miller (+1)
19. Ted Nugent (-1)
20. ZZ Top (No change)
New Vinyl/tapes added
Bob Seger- Stranger in Town
Side 1 from Emerson Lake and Palmer's Tarkus from 1971, is IMO the most complex piece of rock music ever composed. Many don't get it or like it. But there is no denying the absolute musical genius it took to put this monstrosity together. With that, I just ran into this recent little gem from Carl Palmer, the only surviving member of the band. Incredible energy and focus from somone almost 72 years old. Enjoy.....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XjOgcLQo9ks (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XjOgcLQo9ks)
Geddy?.... Alex?..... Here's your drummer. Get back in the studio and concert halls.
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There will be some obscure bands pop up, that I will be surprised if many had heard of. I am going to add my concert attendance as the list progresses.
Black Oak was a bigger band than people realize at the time. They really caught a toehold with KAAY, back in the day. For those who may not have heard of KAAY, they were a Little Rock based AM station had a night time show called Beaker Street which played at 11PM to 2AM every night. They had a maximum AM strength signal and ruled the airways for years in mid america. KAAY pretty much introduced mid america to rock on the '70's, as most of the local stations at the time were playing country.
But more on the topic of Black Oak. They were big enough that they were able to be signed to California Jam, which was if I remember one of the largest attended festivals in the decade.
I had their album and I agree it was one I played often.
The only band I ever saw in concert twice was ELP. Dynamic.
Another two bands under-rated are the Steve Miller Band and The Band.
Anyone play "Song Quiz" on Alexa? You select decades (50s, 60s, 70s. etc.) and compete against someone. I almost always choose 60s as I do better than 70s.
Try it is you haven't yet. It is addicting
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1979 - Bad Company, Desolation Angels album
Oh Atlanta!
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cyjn1LZ-Dos)
Rock-n-Roll Fantasy
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=14YfPNGSj6Q)
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1979 - Electric Light Orchestra
Don't Bring Me Down
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A61D9qSjd3M)
And from 1977, Do Ya
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p1Y-rfbzmgY)
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I had their album and I agree it was one I played often.
The only band I ever saw in concert twice was ELP. Dynamic.
Another two bands under-rated are the Steve Miller Band and The Band.
Anyone play "Song Quiz" on Alexa? You select decades (50s, 60s, 70s. etc.) and compete against someone. I almost always choose 60s as I do better than 70s.
Try it is you haven't yet. It is addicting
'70's Song quiz on Alexa was my forte'. My longest winning streak was 257 games.
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February 1979 List
1. Boston (No change)
2. Styx (No change)
3. Aerosmith (+1)
4. Foreigner (-1)
5. Van Halen (No change)
6. Bob Seger (No change)
7. Kansas (+1)
8. Led Zeppeln (-1)
9. Rush (No change)
10. Eagles (No change)
11. Moody Blues (+1)
12. Foghat (-1)
13. Emerson Lake and Palmer (No change)
14. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
15. Bad Company (+1)
16. Ted Nugent (+3)
17. Chicago (-2)
18. Stever Miller (No change)
19. The Cars (New)
20. ZZ Top (No change)
Vinyl/Tapes added
Beatles - '67- '70
The Cars- The Gold standard by far of the new wave era. Very tight musicianship, and eccletric sound that was unique to this band. No one else sounded like The Cars If I had a list of 10 bands I most regret not seeing in concert, this one sure would be on it. Picking a sample of greatness from this catalog is a tough task. I could easily choose one of about 10-15. I am choosing "It's all I can do." from Candy-O If you listen at the 1:50-2:15 mark , you will hear 4 very clearly intricate melodic lines that flow and blend together like magic. Some of the best songwriting you will ever hear. As a bonus, i wanted to add "Magic" as well. Just so we can get both an Orr and Ocasek song.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tEFiid5UkDo (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tEFiid5UkDo)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E0Kv6vxZwL8 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E0Kv6vxZwL8)
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Okay, finally dove into the thread, and noticed little or no mention of Steppenwolf, Bread, America, and Grateful Dead. I guess it all depended on the mood you were in, but I liked them as well as almost all of the bands listed here. But the 70s found a bit of eclectic in my musical tastes, too, and John Prine and the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band were favorites and I admit to times when the backwoods of bluegrass were as much a comfort as soaking my feet in a mountain stream... I have enjoyed this trip down memory lane..Thanks @catfish1957 !
-
Okay, finally dove into the thread, and noticed little or no mention of Steppenwolf, Bread, America, and Grateful Dead. I guess it all depended on the mood you were in, but I liked them as well as almost all of the bands listed here. But the 70s found a bit of eclectic in my musical tastes, too, and John Prine and the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band were favorites and I admit to times when the backwoods of bluegrass were as much a comfort as soaking my feet in a mountain stream... I have enjoyed this trip down memory lane..Thanks @catfish1957 !
@Smokin Joe
Thanks Joe....
Good run of bands you mentioned. Steppenewolf would have easily been in my Top 5 say in 1969 or 1970. Didn't start these lists until '73. In discussions like these, there really aren't any wrong answers or omissions. Everyone has their particular taste in music. You menitoned Bread. Bread was probably the best of their genre. I kept a Best of Bread tape in my Truck as a Date "Mood Tape".
The Greatful Dead? They are the ultimate Cult Band.... Maybe the only classic rock one more than Rush. Yeah, my favorite band. I might not be quite as bad as these guys but.......
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iq3yjfoorsU (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iq3yjfoorsU)
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@Smokin Joe
Thanks Joe....
Good run of bands you mentioned. Steppenewolf would have easily been in my Top 5 say in 1969 or 1970. Didn't start these lists until '73. In discussions like these, there really aren't any wrong answers or omissions. Everyone has their particular taste in music. You menitoned Bread. Bread was probably the best of their genre. I kept a Best of Bread tape in my Truck as a Date "Mood Tape".
The Greatful Dead? They are the ultimate Cult Band.... Maybe the only classic rock one more than Rush. Yeah, my favorite band. I might not be quite as bad as these guys but.......
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iq3yjfoorsU (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iq3yjfoorsU)
Tape in a truck? One can tell those who grew up more in the 60s than 70s if that tape was an eight track or, like I also used to have, a 4 track.
One more band I liked out there was Country Joe and the Fish.
And as far as cult bands were concerned, the only one I adherred to much was The Mothers of Invention
-
March 1979 List
1. Boston (No change)
2. Styx (No change)
3. Aerosmith (No change)
4. Foreigner (No change)
5. Rush (+4)
6. Bob Seger (No change)
7. Van Halen (-2)
8. Kansas (-1)
9. Led Zeppelin (-1)
10. Eagles (No change)
11. Moody Blues (No change)
12. ToTo (New)
13. Emerson Lake and Palmer (No change)
14. Foghat (-2)
15. Fleetwoo Mac (-1)
16. Bad Company (-1)
17. Eddie Money (New)
18. Chicago (-1)
19. Steve Miller Band (-1)
20. Ted Nugent (-4)
Vinyl/Tapes Added
Heart- Dreamboat Annie
Toto- A general session-"ist" type of band formed of good musicians. They are fusion of many styles including straight forward rock, with tinges of prog, and jazz style. Kind of an uneven career. 1st and 5th albums are very very good. But it is the 4th one that this band will be remembered for (IV) That album included Rosanna and Africa. I think the album had sold about 10-15M units. Huge, including Grammies, if memory serves. After Isolation, as far as I am concerned they fell off the musical earth.
An anecdotal item on this band too. In my first job out college, I worked for the State Dept. of Health. Part of my many duties was to inspect Day Cares. One day, I just happened to check this one place in Vinton, Louisiana, and it happened to be Lead Singer Bobby Kimball's mother. She had a Platinum album on the wall, so that was pretty cool to see.
As far as samples, from ToTo, I am going to add one of their biggest hit, and then go with a couple more obscure ones I really liked.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FTQbiNvZqaY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FTQbiNvZqaY)
On this one, Deadwood fans might notice their favorite Doc here (The fugitive)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RSeldKAqM-w (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RSeldKAqM-w)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3CA6X0Zx3lg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3CA6X0Zx3lg)
Eddie Money- . Another great Rock and Roller we lost in the past few years. Money made Crooners cool again, and put together a solid base of hits and music. Master of hooks, and great showman. Seeing Ronnie Spector die recently brought back a lot of memories of the Money Man. Here are a couple of my favorites.
My second serious girlfriend was a dead ringer for the lady in this video... Looks and temperment.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7FdYRq8-6kM (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7FdYRq8-6kM)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5FtHhUDo-08 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5FtHhUDo-08)
-
April 1979 List
1.Boston (No change)
2. Styx (No change)
3. Aerosmith (No change)
4. Rush (+1)
5. Bob Seger (+1)
6. Foreigner (-2)
7. Led Zeppelin (+2)
8. Van Halen (-1)
9. Kansas (-1)
10.Eagles (No change)
11. Moody Blues (No chnage)
12. Emerson Lake and Palmer (+1)
13. Toto (-1)
14. Fleetwood Mac (+1)
15. Foghat (-1)
16. Bad Company (No change)
17. Chicago (+1)
18. Eddie Money (-1)
19. Steve Miller Band (No Change)
20. Ted Nugent (No Change)
Vinyl/tapes added-
Three Dog Night- Golden Biscuits
Bachman Turner Overdrive- Head On
Bachman Turner Overdrive- 4 Wheel Drive
Recent song/video from AC DC. Sounds like a swan songish type of tribute showing that they obviously understand the end is a hell of lot closer than the beginning. Kind of sad watching it.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7-bIFDMSFA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7-bIFDMSFA)
-
Uneventful month- Will use this post to cover what I feel is the most iconic rock film clip in history. Enjoy if you have never seen it. I'll even provide a narrative. :cool:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVN8_7wVSG0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVN8_7wVSG0)
0:08- Jimi provides PSA that the next 7 minutes might be hazardous to your hearing
1:05 -Some can't chew gun and walk at the same time. Hendrix OTOH, gives prehistoric lesson on using feedback for R&R, and chews gum.
2:20- Jimi is the best? Heck he has the 3rd best 'Fro in the band.
2:50- Look Ma---- One hand, no picking.......
4:11 Hendrix - Behind the back? Anyone can do that right?
4:48- Cass Elliot lets 4 flies in her mouth with a jaw drop
5:00- All hell breaks lose.
5:15- Find out the real Wild Thing was Jimi's Marshall Amp.
5:56- Hendrix tries to summon the soul of Robert Johnson from the depths of hell
6:32- Jimi demonstrates his cooking skills, making Broiled Stratocaster
6:50- Fender Abuse your honor, 1st degree
6:53- Cass Elliot closes her mouth long enough to approve.
7:09- That guitar fret may look destroyed, but I heard one expert say that piece of guitar might be worth a quarter of a million dollars today.
7:14- Classic look of shock, not realizing you have just witnessed rock and roll history.
Wow did you bring back memories.
I saw Jimi at the San Antonio Hemisphere in May 1970 a few months prior to his departing from this earth. I know as it cost me $4 for the ticket and I still have the stub.
He must have perfected his performance since '67 as he also was able to stroke the guitar with other parts of his anatomy, ahem.
-
Jethro Tull is/was a great celtic tinged prog master. Complex compositions, intellligent lyricism, a really good listen.
Here is a sample of one of my favorites by JT....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eSUdlUmtg3Q (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eSUdlUmtg3Q)
I agree. He had stimulating lyrics. My favorite is Wind Up which I cannot find a whole video of
http://youtu.be/PCKR6CXiPZE
-
I saw Jimi at the San Antonio Hemisphere in May 1970 a few months prior to his departing from this earth. I know as it cost me $4 for the ticket and I still have the stub.
You saw Jimi Hendrix? (Give me a minute to lift my jaw off the floor) :cool:
-
You saw Jimi Hendrix? (Give me a minute to lift my jaw off the floor) :cool:
My favorite was the Star Spangled Banner
He knew a guitar better than a shoe maker knows his own shoes.
-
Okay, finally dove into the thread, and noticed little or no mention of Steppenwolf, Bread, America, and Grateful Dead.
The Grateful Dead is hard to peg by year. They are much better known for their live concerts than their album output. 1978 marked the release of their Shakedown Street album (which has my favorite Dead song).
Fire on the Mountain
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YAhEi7W1ib0)
I Need a Miracle
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xa_cH5Rt6dg)
(http://moneymusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Grateful-Dead.jpg)
-
1979 - Frank Zappa and the Mothers of Invention, Sheik Yerbouti album
Broken Hearts Are For Assholes (Live)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=it_R8BXkfGQ)
Flakes
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p8Izxkm-e7s)
-
1979 - The Police
Message in a Bottle (Live '79)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lZHTYA1Pcu8)
-
Wow did you bring back memories.
I saw Jimi at the San Antonio Hemisphere in May 1970 a few months prior to his departing from this earth. I know as it cost me $4 for the ticket and I still have the stub.
We’re not worthy. We’re not worthy. 8888forgot
-
March 1979 List
1. Boston (No change)
2. Styx (No change)
3. Aerosmith (No change)
4. Foreigner (No change)
5. Rush (+4)
6. Bob Seger (No change)
7. Van Halen (-2)
8. Kansas (-1)
9. Led Zeppelin (-1)
10. Eagles (No change)
11. Moody Blues (No change)
12. ToTo (New)
13. Emerson Lake and Palmer (No change)
14. Foghat (-2)
15. Fleetwoo Mac (-1)
16. Bad Company (-1)
17. Eddie Money (New)
18. Chicago (-1)
19. Steve Miller Band (-1)
20. Ted Nugent (-4)
Vinyl/Tapes Added
Heart- Dreamboat Annie
Toto- A general session-"ist" type of band formed of good musicians. They are fusion of many styles including straight forward rock, with tinges of prog, and jazz style. Kind of an uneven career. 1st and 5th albums are very very good. But it is the 4th one that this band will be remembered for (IV) That album included Rosanna and Africa. I think the album had sold about 10-15M units. Huge, including Grammies, if memory serves. After Isolation, as far as I am concerned they fell off the musical earth.
An anecdotal item on this band too. In my first job out college, I worked for the State Dept. of Health. Part of my many duties was to inspect Day Cares. One day, I just happened to check this one place in Vinton, Louisiana, and it happened to be Lead Singer Bobby Kimball's mother. She had a Platinum album on the wall, so that was pretty cool to see.
As far as samples, from ToTo, I am going to add one of their biggest hit, and then go with a couple more obscure ones I really liked.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FTQbiNvZqaY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FTQbiNvZqaY)
On this one, Deadwood fans might notice their favorite Doc here (The fugitive)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RSeldKAqM-w (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RSeldKAqM-w)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3CA6X0Zx3lg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3CA6X0Zx3lg)
Eddie Money- . Another great Rock and Roller we lost in the past few years. Money made Crooners cool again, and put together a solid base of hits and music. Master of hooks, and great showman. Seeing Ronnie Spector die recently brought back a lot of memories of the Money Man. Here are a couple of my favorites.
My second serious girlfriend was a dead ringer for the lady in this video... Looks and temperment.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7FdYRq8-6kM (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7FdYRq8-6kM)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5FtHhUDo-08 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5FtHhUDo-08)
We actually saw Eddie Money at our local city fair. It was such a shame and so pathetic. He came staggering onto stage and they had to take him off stage. He staggered back onto the stage about a half hour later, sang (slurred) two songs and left for the remainder of the night. So sad.
-
We actually saw Eddie Money at our local city fair. It was such a shame and so pathetic. He came staggering onto stage and they had to take him off stage. He staggered back onto the stage about a half hour later, sang (slurred) two songs and left for the remainder of the night. So sad.
Sounds like the Joe Cocker Concert I didn't go to in VA in the early 70s. It was one I was glad I didn't make.
-
March 1979, Van Halen releases their second album.
Women in Love
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2aQeiG0KAzU)
Dance the Night Away
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E-rTKd-Alk8)
Bottoms Up
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rjZ9NH07rJw)
Beautiful Girls
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Vw6Qbn4TY8)
-
Also March 1979, Supertramp releases Breakfast in America album.
Take the Long Way Home (Live, '79)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=62AtkatPZwY)
The Logical Song (Live, '79)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_9FoQP5NVns)
-
1979 - Talking Heads, Life During Wartime (Live)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rmGcgtcIftA)
-
May 1979 List
1.Boston (No change)
2. Styx (No change)
3. Aerosmith (No change)
4. Rush (No change)
5. Led Zeppelin (+2)
6. Foreigner (No change)
7. Van Halen (+1)
8. Bob Seger (-3)
9. Bad Company (+7)
10. Emerson Lake and Palmer (-2)
11. Eagles (-1)
12. Kansas (-3)
13. Toto (No change)
14. Moody Blues (-3)
15. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
16. Foghat (-1)
17. Chicago (No change)
18. Steve Miller Band (+1)
19. Bachman Turner Overdrive (New)
20. Ted Nugent (No change)
Vinyl/Tapes added-
Bad Company - Desolation Angels
The Cars- Self Titled
Styx- Equinox
About 10 years ago, Styx (minus DeYoung) decided on this so novel way of replaying the aboslute best of their glory days. Playing in concert in album form and orer of their two greatest works.... Grand Illusion and Pieces of Eight. These two albums dominated my turntable in the 1977-1979 timeframe. These were unbelievably strong and consistent works. Wish more classic rock bands had done this. One disclaimer, .....This singer is not Dennis DeYoung, but well worth a listen, if you are into this band or era
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m9QfV55XOLg&t=3757s (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m9QfV55XOLg&t=3757s)
-
We’re not worthy. We’re not worthy. 8888forgot
Thank you. I was 18 with money burning a hole in my pocket. So I took 3 hours of wages working in a grocery store and drove to San Antonio with my 17 year old brother.
BTW, I like your tagline
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Thank you. I was 18 with money burning a hole in my pocket. So I took 3 hours of wages working in a grocery store and drove to San Antonio with my 17 year old brother.
BTW, I like your tagline
A wise investment of memories. Not that many people left alive that can say they saw Hendrix live. Especially us in Texas.
-
June 1979 List
1. Boston (No change)
2. Styx (No change)
3. Aerosmith (No change)
4. Led Zeppelin (+1)
5. Rush (-1)
6. Foreigner (No change)
7. Van Halen (No change)
8. Bad Company (+1)
9. Emerson Lake and Palmer (+1)
10. Bob Seger (-2)
11. Eagles (No change)
12. The Cars (New)
13. Kansas (-1)
14. Moody Blues (No change)
15. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
16. Foghat (No change)
17. Chicago (No Change)
18. ToTo (-5)
19. Steve Miller (-1)
20. Ted Nugent (No change)
Vinyl/Tape added
None
It is easy to forget how big Grand Funk Railroad was 50 years ago. This concert actually broke the Beatles record at Shea Stadium, with all 55,000 tickets being sold out in 72 hours.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A_t59To7Snk (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A_t59To7Snk)
-
I know I added a different version of this tune earlier. But this one has a different feel to it. Too bad music doesn't sound like this anymore.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_OdvxTZRPE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_OdvxTZRPE)
-
A wise investment of memories. Not that many people left alive that can say they saw Hendrix live. Especially us in Texas.
If you've seen SRV live, then you've seen Jimi Hendrix.
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wgIB1OL09H0)
-
1979 - The Knack debuts.
My Sharona
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BR2JtsVumFA)
-
July 1979 List
1. Boston (No change)
2. Van Halen (+5)
3. Styx- (-1)
4. Aerosmith (-1)
5. Led Zeppelin (-1)
6. Foreigner (No change)
7. Rush (-2)
8. Bad Company (No change)
9. Bob Seger (+1)
10. Emerson Lake and Palmer (-1)
11. Eagles (No change)
12. Fleetwood Mac (+3)
13. Cars (-1)
14. Kansas (-1)
15. Moody Blues (-1)
16. Foghat (No change)
17. Steve Miller Band (+2)
18. ToTo (No change)
19. Chicago (-2)
20. Alice Cooper (New)
Vinyl/Tapes added
None
There have been three Rock Star deaths that to me have been like a gut punch. (1) John Lennon in 1980, (2) Tom Petty in 2017, and Neil Peart in 2020. I knew 2020 was going to suck as a year, when the year started Peart died January 7, 2020. This clip is a beaurtifully done tribute that has been carefully placed chronologially (with just a couple brief exceptions) done to Rush's most powerful and beautiful ballads. Kind of tough to watch for me......
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cWoMIlivrtU&list=RDGMEMqVetBnAeSrX23ZFXTAT5hgVMs5BJXwNeKsQ&index=2 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cWoMIlivrtU&list=RDGMEMqVetBnAeSrX23ZFXTAT5hgVMs5BJXwNeKsQ&index=2)
-
@catfish1957 - perusing the last couple of days since I found this thread gives me hope of bettering your record of consecutive wins against opponents in Alexa Song quiz.
As long as I do not have to play you.
Some of these obscure songs like My Sharona are some of the ones I like best.
-
@catfish1957 - perusing the last couple of days since I found this thread gives me hope of bettering your record of consecutive wins against opponents in Alexa Song quiz.
As long as I do not have to play you.
Some of these obscure songs like My Sharona are some of the ones I like best.
Don't forget Wierd Al's parody rendition: "My Bologna"!
-
@catfish1957 - perusing the last couple of days since I found this thread gives me hope of bettering your record of consecutive wins against opponents in Alexa Song quiz.
As long as I do not have to play you.
Some of these obscure songs like My Sharona are some of the ones I like best.
Pull the plug when Alexa says..... Catfish .... From Texas. :cool:
Of course, I think my strongest streak in the '60's is about 12 games, and about 75 games in the ;80's.
'90's, 00's, etc? I am lucky to guess one right.
-
July 1979 List
There have been three Rock Star deaths that to me have been like a gut punch. (1) John Lennon in 1980, (2) Tom Petty in 2017, and Neil Peart in 2020. I knew 2020 was going to suck as a year, when the year started Peart died January 7, 2020. This clip is a beaurtifully done tribute that has been carefully placed chronologially (with just a couple brief exceptions) done to Rush's most powerful and beautiful ballads. Kind of tough to watch for me......
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cWoMIlivrtU&list=RDGMEMqVetBnAeSrX23ZFXTAT5hgVMs5BJXwNeKsQ&index=2 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cWoMIlivrtU&list=RDGMEMqVetBnAeSrX23ZFXTAT5hgVMs5BJXwNeKsQ&index=2)
I'm so glad that clip included the size and scope of his drum kits.
I like to watch reruns of the Ed Sullivan Show. I always find it interesting that the big name bands in the 60's-70's featured stripped down kits. (easier to transport, I guess) but developed into monsters over the years.
-
Pull the plug when Alexa says..... Catfish .... From Texas. :cool:
Of course, I think my strongest streak in the '60's is about 12 games, and about 75 games in the ;80's.
'90's, 00's, etc? I am lucky to guess one right.
I wish they had a venue over the period I listened 1965-1975. I would rock
-
Don't forget Wierd Al's parody rendition: "My Bologna"!
Or Cheech and Chong's "My Scrotum".
-
1979 - Molly Hatchet
One Man's Pleasure (Live, '79)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8qNsaec6xQE)
Boogie No More
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PaQxzPlNczc)
-
1979 - AC/DC releases Highway to Hell album. Seven months later, Bon Scott chokes to death on his own vomit.
Highway to Hell
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l482T0yNkeo)
If You Want Blood, You Got It (Live '79)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FlV5BWJvbgE)
-
1979 - Motorhead - Damage Case
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d2mX57RU4jI)
-
1978 - Queen
Fat Bottomed Girls
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VMnjF1O4eH0)
-
The first rock concert I ever went to was the 1974 ZZ Top's First Annual Texas Size Rompin' Stompin' Barn Dance and Bar B.Q. in the Texas Longhorn stadium in Austin. It was an outdoor stadium in 90 + degree weather. The line up was Bad Company, Joe Cocker, Santana and ZZ Top. We got there very early to get a good seat in the stands. Thank goodness we didn’t get in standing room on the field. They only had a few refreshment stands that quickly ran out of drinks. I was wearing a halter top and short shorts and quickly burned to a crisp. We made it through Bad Company and Joe Cocker and then I passed out from heat exhaustion and got carried to a medic tent. I could hear Santana playing when my boyfriend carried me out of the stadium.
https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/12937247/the-night-zz-top-concert-trashed-texas-longhorns-stadium
-
August 1979 list
1. Boston (No change)
2. Van Halen (No change)
3. Styx (No change)
4. Aerosmith (No change)
5. Rush (+2)
6. Led Zeppelin ((-1)
7. Foreigner (-1)
8. Bob Seger (+1)
9. Bad Company (-1)
10. Fleetwood Mac (+2)
11. Emerson Lake and Palmer (-1)
12. Eagles (-1)
13. Cars (No change)
14. Moody Blues (+1)
15. Foghate (+1)
16. Kansas (-2)
17. ToTo (+1)
18. Steve Miller (-1)
19. Bachman Turner Overdrive (New)
20. Chicago (-1)
Vinyl/Tapes added
Blue Oyster Cult - Spectres
Back in the '70's when we had KAAY in Little Rock's Beaker Street, the DJ (Clyde Clifford) would throw some epic long gems out there for listeners. I guess he was going on some kind of break. :cool: One of his "go to" bands, in this situation would be from Yes. In the spirit of Beaker Street, I am throwing a couple of Yes tunes that shine their virtuosity like a bright beacon. Enjoy
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IwpB6b6mhUM&list=RDMM&start_radio=1&rv=tEFiid5UkDo (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IwpB6b6mhUM&list=RDMM&start_radio=1&rv=tEFiid5UkDo)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=59feSG8U5EQ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=59feSG8U5EQ)
-
The first rock concert I ever went to was the 1974 ZZ Top's First Annual Texas Size Rompin' Stompin' Barn Dance and Bar B.Q. in the Texas Longhorn stadium in Austin. It was an outdoor stadium in 90 + degree weather. The line up was Bad Company, Joe Cocker, Santana and ZZ Top. We got there very early to get a good seat in the stands. Thank goodness we didn’t get in standing room on the field. They only had a few refreshment stands that quickly ran out of drinks. I was wearing a halter top and short shorts and quickly burned to a crisp. We made it through Bad Company and Joe Cocker and then I passed out from heat exhaustion and got carried to a medic tent. I could hear Santana playing when my boyfriend carried me out of the stadium.
https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/12937247/the-night-zz-top-concert-trashed-texas-longhorns-stadium
Wow, that was a ordeal, and sadly you ended up missing ZZ Top.
A number of pages back in this thread, I described my experienced getting crushed up front at an Alice Cooper concert. Not surviving did cross my mind as it was happening. I guess rock concerts weren't the absolute safest places to be in the '70's.
-
Wow, that was a ordeal, and sadly you ended up missing ZZ Top.
A number of pages back in this thread, I described my experienced getting crushed up front at an Alice Cooper concert. Not surviving did cross my mind as it was happening. I guess rock concerts weren't the absolute safest places to be in the '70's.
Yes. I forgot to say we got crushed against the gates when the crowd got anxious about getting in. Was lucky my boyfriend was a bodybuilder and was able to pull me out of the crowd. They were not prepared for the people who showed up without tickets and tried to push their way in.
Also got to see ZZ Top at their next concert in Houston. It was worth the wait. They put on a show!
-
September 1979 List
1. Styx (+2)
2. Boston (-1)
3. Van Halen (-1)
4. Aerosmith (No change)
5. Led Zeppelin (+1)
6. Rush (-1)
7. Journey (New)
8. Foreginer (-1)
9. Bob Seger (-1)
10. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
11. Bad Company (-2)
12. Cars (+1)
13. Eagles (-1)
14. Emerson Lake and Palmer (-3)
15. Moody Blues (-1)
16. Kansas (No change)
17. Foghat (-2)
18. Toto (-1)
19. Steve Miller Band (-1)
20. Chicago (No change)
Vinyl/tapes added
Queen- A Day at the Races
Kansas - Self Titled
Several pages ago, I provided a live video clip of a band called Bloodrock. It was an absolute rarity, and maybe the only known one of the band in its hay day. Whys so much of history of the band was lost always a mystery to me. Bloodrock for some reason got overshadowed by its managment stablemate Grand Funk, and never seemed to get much traction past regional fandom. Talent wise, I would have had them on par with Mark, Don, and Mel.
If I had done lists in 1970 this band would have likely been my No.1 90% of the classic rock fans out there probably remember Bloodrock for the track D.O.A., which was a macabre, graphic and explict narrative of plane crash. The song was just for shock IMO, and has little muscial redeeming value. The rest of album (Bloodrock 2) is highly charged fantastic rock and roll, with searing dueling guitar and keyboard solos, that are well worth the price of admission. Here is my favorite track from the album.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KBJ-LnbzYvE&list=PLXeW7kz_eNjbIxlpOqBAtt14Pn8moGApc&index=4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KBJ-LnbzYvE&list=PLXeW7kz_eNjbIxlpOqBAtt14Pn8moGApc&index=4)
-
October 1979-
1. Styx (No change)
2. Boston (No change)
3. Journey (+4)
4. Led Zeppelin (+1)
5. Aerosmith (-1)
6. Van Halen (-3)
7. Foreigner (+1)
8. Rush (-2)
9. Bob Seger (No change)
10. Bad Company (+1)
11. Cars (+1)
12. Fleetwood Mac (-2)
13. Kansas (+3)
14. Emerson Lake and Palmer (No change)
15. Eagles (-2)
16. Moody Blues (-1)
17. Foghat (No change)
18. Chicago (+2)
19. Toto (-1)
20. Steve Miller (-1)
Vinyl/Tape added
Journey- Evolution
Journey- Infinity
Styx- Cornerstone
This was one of the absolute biggest disappointments I ever had in anticipation of an album. This was the follow-up to the legendary Grand Illusion and Pieces of Eight masterpieces. This LP was a wretched unmittigatted piece of garbage. Dennis DeYoung had criminally hijacked the band into thinking they were pop stars, and the results absolutely SUCKED!!!!! Want an example of how bad this garbage was? I hated the Kennedys as much as any other conservative, but this tune just borders on pointless and mean spirited........ What was JY thinking?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qu3gI8K-FjI&list=PL957F45A6D19A3440&index=8 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qu3gI8K-FjI&list=PL957F45A6D19A3440&index=8)
-
November 1979 List
1. Styx (No change) ??? Figured the Cornerstone disaster didn't change my mind too much on their status
2. Boston (No change)
3. Journey (No change)
4. Led Zeppelin (No change)
5. Foreigner (+2)
6. Aerosmith (-1)
7. Van Halen (-1)
8. Rush (No change)
9. Bad Company (+1)
10. Bob Seger (-1)
11. Kansas (+2)
12. Cars (-1)
13. Eagles (+2)
14. Emerson Lake and Palmer (No change)
15. Chicago (+3)
16. Moody Blues (No change)
17. Fleetwood Mac (-5)
18. Foghat (-1)
19. Toto (No change)
20. Steve Miller Band (No change)
Vinyl/Tape additions- What a great month for albums, after the previous month's disaster with Styx
Foghat- Stone Blue
Styx- Crystal Ball
Foreigner- Head Games
Led Zeppelin- In through the Out Door
Eagles- The Long Run
In Through the Out Door, as all classic rock fans know, is sadly the last studio album for the great Led Zeppelin. It is so apt that the Band's record company name is Swan Song, and this particular album sure fit the bill. When I first put this LP on the turntable in 1979, I was truly puzzled in thinking what and why Plant and Page would go off on so many tangents. And I'll admit, I really wasn't that impressed after my first listen. Now, I place this album in 3rd place in their catalog behind IV and the First album. I always wondered that if Plant/Page had known that Bonham would be gone, if they had played a. more of the mainstream Zep sound. In any case, this LP grew on me with age, as I understood better what the band had in mind in expanding their scope of chops.
It was a fitting end to the band that will always be known as the act that knocked the Beatles off the pedestal.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I57nIP0vc44 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I57nIP0vc44)
The Long Run by the Eagles, is im my opinion their finest work. Yeah, yeah, yeah, I know you Eagles purist will probably point to one of the first four albums which were all monstrous sellers but catered to a countryish folkish rock fan base. I hear you, they are the gold standard of that genre.
This album is black for a reason. There is a darkness that permeates the sound and lyricsm. I used to like to play Disco Strangler around my disco loving neighbors. Like i have said earlier, Joe Walsh added such a great edge to the band, and they reached a much bigger audience, with a heck of a lot of success with his contributions. Here is my favorite track from the LP.... A Joe Walsh number of course.
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_b3bCjnVnXo4/SQUH7x3aTZI/AAAAAAAACt8/MT1yVjum70s/s400/The+Eagles+-+The+Long+Run+-+Front.JPG)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SXm8RsyInHQ&list=PLs9vIZChB0tcwRDcPSBPf3ugKtsZ_D-8c&index=3 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SXm8RsyInHQ&list=PLs9vIZChB0tcwRDcPSBPf3ugKtsZ_D-8c&index=3)
-
December 1979 List
1. Styx (No change)
2. Boston (No change)
3. Led Zeppelin (+1)
4. Journey (-1)
5. Foreigner (No change)
6. Aersosmith (No change)
7. Bob Seger (+3)
8. Rush (No change)
9. Van Halen (-2)
10. Eagles (+3)
11. Bad Company (-2)
12. Kansas (-1)
13. Cars (No change)
14. Foghat (+4)
15. Emerson Lake and Palmer (-1)
16. Chicago (-1)
17. Moody Blues (-1)
18. Toto (+1)
19. Fleetwood Mac (-2)
20. Steve Miller Band (No Change)
New Vinyl/Tapes
Rolling Stones- Some Girls
Concert- Kiss- December 6, 1979, price on stub $10.00
Three thumbs down to the band on this concert. First, the stage act was apparently significantly downsized due to the (I guess) smaller venue, (even though my ticket number was 02753). I had seen pictures and film of their show, and believe me, we were shortchanged. Secondly, the sound production was awful, loud, and distorted. And last, you can tell when the band doesn't care, and are mailing it in. This show sucked. Lone highlight was catching one of Ace Freley's guitar picks, which I promptly gave away to a friend who was a bigger Kiss fan than I was. What an auspicious end to the '70's.
-
January 1980 List
1. Styx (no change)
2. Boston (No change)
3. Journey (+1)
4. Led Zeppelin (-1)
5. Van Halen (+4)
6. Bob Seger (+1)
7. Foreigner (-2)
8. Rush (No change)
9. Aerosmith (-3)
10. Eagles (No change)
11. Cars (+2)
12. Bad Company (-1)
13. Kansas (-1)
14. Steve Miller Band (+6)
15. Toto (+3)
16. Emerson Lake and Palmer (-1)
17. Foghat (-3)
18. Eddie Money (New)
19. Moody Blues (-2)
20. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
New Vinyl/Tapes
Toto- Self Titled
Van Halen- II
A couple of classic tunes from Journey before little Stevie Perry's creative influences ruined the band.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=02QDuPb5Bm0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=02QDuPb5Bm0)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qp_qCnO_bLg&list=PLkWvfr9F9PvaJdShtDRsRQ0qzU70BvR70&index=8 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qp_qCnO_bLg&list=PLkWvfr9F9PvaJdShtDRsRQ0qzU70BvR70&index=8)
-
February 1980 List
1. Styx (No change)
2. Boston (No change)
3. Journey (No change)
4. Toto (+11)
5. Led Zeppelin (-1)
6. Foreigner (No change)
8. Bob Seger (-2)
9. Rush (-1)
10. Aerosmith (-1)
11. Cars (No change)
12. Eagles (-2)
13. Kansas (No change)
14. Bad Comoany (-2)
15. Eddie Money (+3)
16. Steve Miller Band (-2)
17. Moody Blues (+2)
18. Emerson Lake and Palmer (-2)
19. Fleetwood Mac (+1)
20. Foghat (-3)
Vinyl/Tapes added
None
Concert: John Denver - February 24, 1980- Well sometimes you do things that your girl friend wants to do so........
-
March and April 1980 list
1. Styx (No change)
2. Boston (No change)
3. Journey (No change)
4. Neil Young (New)
5. Toto (-1)
6. Led Zeppelin (-1)
7. The Cars (+4)
8. Van Halen (-2)
9. Foreigner (-2)
10. Bob Seger (-2)
11. Rush (-2)
12. Aerosmith (-2)
13. Eagles (-1)
14. Eddie Money (No change)
15. The Babys (New)
16. Bad Company (-2)
17. Kansas (-4)
18. Fleetwood Mac (+1)
Vinyl/Tapes Added
None
Neil Young-. I find it odd and hilarious that NY shows up on the chronological list at the same time he becomes a laughing stock for staring down Spotify for the scraps and crumbs he might be making on downloads. He's a relic, and thinking he has any relevance as voice in his left addled mind is pure folly. Now days, I seldom listen to his whiny ass voice. Tastes change that's for sure
But back at the subject at hand. Way back in the day in a galaxy in time long ago, Neil was the closest thing to a rock poet laureate the business had since Bob Dylan. I was fascinated with his songwriting skills, and he was a tour de' force when he teamed up with Crazy Horse. Always enigmatic, his career was a strange journey of ebbs and flows. He has made among the greatest and worst albums of all time (Rust Never Sleeps vs. Everybody's Rocking). Speaking of Everybody's Rocking...... When I saw NY in 1985, the concert and tour supporting this LP was the absolutley worst concert I have ever attended..... BY FAR!!!! I felt violated when I left the arena. But you have to hand it to him in retrospect...... This is a guy who was part of Buffalo Springfield, played Woodstock, with Crosby Stills & Nash, Mega selling solo act in the '70's and '80's, and even used Pearl Jam as his back up band. Picking one clip of NY is like throwing a pebble in the ocean, hoping to hit water. Think I will go with this one....... Just because it seems Neil has gotten rusty before he burnt out.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HhTbOCbvozI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HhTbOCbvozI)
The Babys- . Late '70's radio darlings that started out mostly as a straight out R & R band. But like others they let the success move themselves toward the pop side. In the grand scheme they were pretty forgettable.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tIL1GfBVxxg&list=PLtJK_InIjqtTv1GQqodrgvCiWq8lZyv6e&index=5 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tIL1GfBVxxg&list=PLtJK_InIjqtTv1GQqodrgvCiWq8lZyv6e&index=5)
-
1979 - Led Zeppelin
In the Evening
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bJSJavz1AOM)
All of My Love
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z0DAnu5Sq6k)
Carouselambra
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jhe4UOXIQjQ)
-
1979 - Pink Floyd
Young Lust
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YiVPC8QHsQM)
Comfortably Numb
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x-xTttimcNk)
The Show Must Go On / In the Flesh
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rXf1tYQPay8)
Run Like Hell (Live, '94)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0dB6MQlFLu8)
-
1979 - Cheap Trick
The Dream Police (Live, '79)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xIoT1W39Iuc)
-
May 1980 list
1. Styx (No change)
2. Neil Young (+2)
3. Boston (-1)
4. Journey (-1)
5. Toto (No change)
6. Led Zeppelin (No change)
7. Cars (No change)
8. Eagles (+5)
9. Foreigner (No change)
10. Bob Seger (No change)
11. Rush (No change)
12. Aerosmith (No change)
13. Van Halen (-5)
14. Eddie Money (No change)
15. Fleetwood Mac (+3)
16. Bad Company (No change)
17. The Babys (-2)
18. Moody Blues (+2)
19. Kansas (-2)
20. Steve Miller Band (-1)
In about a year later Pre- MTv Dire Straits were getting ahead in the game, and put together a suite of videos on the Night Flight show on USA network in early 1981. Making Movies was such a fine album, and here are the 3 videos from that album that made up that suite....
I think I have them in the right order, but I might be wrong.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rC95MEenIxA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rC95MEenIxA)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vcwl-Q7pAtY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vcwl-Q7pAtY)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gAirINwjaxE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gAirINwjaxE)
-
1979 - The Cars
Double Life (Live, '79)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nzj5UBGG0gc)
Dangerous Type
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q5yZC7T3qxA)
Since I Held You
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XymiFfzLUuo)
-
1979 - Tom Petty, Damn the Torpedoes album
Don't Do Me Like That (Live)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XbMsdCMC_N0)
Refugee
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Yai8fxLok8)
-
1979 - Little Feat
Straight From the Heart
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=snwbDD6S_2A)
-
June 1980
1. Styx- (No change)
2. Neil Young (No change)
3. Journey (+1)
4. Boston (-1)
5. Toto (No change)
6. Cars (+1)
7. Led Zeppelin (+1)
8. Eagles (No change)
9. Foreigner (No change)
10. Rush (+1)
11. Bob Seger (-1)
12. Eddie Money (-2)
13. Aerosmith (-1)
14. Fleetwood Mac (+1)
15. Van Halen (-2)
16. Queen (New)
17. Moody Blues (+1)
18. Bad Company (-2)
19. The Babys (-2)
20. Kansas (-1)
Vinyl/Tapes added- None
Concert- Kenny Loggins- June 22, 1980- Well sometimes you do things that your girl friend wants to do so........ (Part 2)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rbQgaHZOFZ0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rbQgaHZOFZ0)
-
July 1980 List
1. Styx (No change)
2. Neil Young (No change)
3. Journey (No change)
4. Boston (No change)
5. Toto (No change)
6. Led Zeppelin (+1)
7. Cars (-1)
8. Eagles (No change)
9. Rush (+1)
10. Eddie Money (+2)
11. Foreigner (-2)
12. Bob Seger (-1)
13. Fleetwood Mac (+1)
14. Queen (+2)
15. Chicago (New)
16. Aerosmith (-3)
17. Van Halen (-2)
18. Moody Blues (-1)
19. Bad Company (-1)
20. Kansas (No change)
Vinyl/Tapes Added- None
Memories about that time include how historically hot it was. Lot's of indoor time, sipping drinks and listening to music. Plenty of Jimmy Carter bashing too.
Tonight's gem... A 1975 Don Kirschner Black Sabbath appearance. Iommi is the reason my first electric guitar was a maroon SG just like this one. The show had great song selection set, (Killing Yourself to Live, Hole in the Sky, Snowblind, War Pigs, and Paranoid). Like I have mentioned, very few bands can claim that they singlely handed created a musical genre. These guys can make that claim
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pX2aOie0Fys (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pX2aOie0Fys)
-
August 1980 List
1. Styx (No change)
2. Journey (+1)
3. Neil Young (-1)
4. Boston (No change)
5. Cars (+2)
6. Led Zeppelin (No change)
7. Toto (-2)
8. Eagles (No change)
9. Eddie Money (+1)
10. Rush (-1)
11. Fleetwood Mac (+2)
12. Tom Petty (New)
13. Bob Seger (-1)
14. Rolling Stones (New)
15. Queen (-1)
16. Foreigner (-5)
17. Chicago (-2)
18. Moody Blues (No change)
19. Bad Company (No change)
20. Kansas (No change)
Vinyl/Tape added- None
Rolling Stones- Never really was a fan of the Stones, but no doubt they are among the biggest legends in rock of all time. They just weren't my kind of band. So seeing this suddenly in my Top 20 list, was a mystery to me. But looking up their discography, and really reachng back for memories, I can remember a group of us, doing like a prehistoric rocker flash mob kind of act to the song "Shattered" at the clubs. SHA-DOO-BEE!!!!! SHA-DOO-BEE!!! The strangeness of youth. :cool:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3_Y5J0ka4_k (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3_Y5J0ka4_k)
As far as any serious discussion of them musically, or historically and its merits, I am probably not the one to lead the narrative.
Tom Petty-. In my opinion, one of the all time greats..... TP did not make a bad album. I think Full Moon Fever is the best album of the '80's. And even today, is one of the acts that I listen to the most. He blended great singer/songwriter stuff with a good dose of the Byrds to iconic levels. Campbell's underated riffs just added a level of cut.
Hard to go wrong with anything in his repertoire of work. You could start with "Damn the Torepdoes", to as I mentioned "Full Moon Fever", to "Into the Great Wide Open" and beyond. Petty is the one act that I most reget not being able to see. As far as a sample?, too target rich of an environment. Think I will go with what I feel is almost requiem-ist farewell from the master himself. His passing left a gaping void in rock.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rSvlJe1mwlw (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rSvlJe1mwlw)
-
September 1980 List
1. Styx- (No change)
2. Neil Young (+1)
3. Journey (-1)
4. Cars (+1)
5. Boston (-1)
6. Led Zeppelin (No change)
7. Toto (No change)
8. Eagles- (No change)
9. Tom Petty (+3)
10. Eddie Money (-1)
11. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
12. Off Broadway (New)
13. Pat Benetar (New)
14. Rush (-4)
15. Bob Seger (-2)
16. Queen (-1)
17. Foreigner (-1)
18. Rolling Stones (-4)
19. Moody Blues (-1)
20. Chicago (-3)
Vinyl/Tapes added- None... In fact, a few months earlier I guess I had stopped documenting additons. This will be the last installment.
Off Broadway- . I mentioned in the beginning of this thread that there may be some obscure acts, and this one is about as obscure as it gets. According to wiki, none of their albums even charted in the Top 100, which is quite a shock since this band had some really good New Wave chops at the time. Maybe it was a case of luck being more important than being good. Glad I regurgitated this thing, because I pretty much had forgotten these guys. Sure, they aren't as good as The Cars or The Police, but sure didn't deserve anonymity. Here are some good tracks from album that I had.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qfNNp0Y7CKg&list=PLvbBpVD4ndxNU0n8RstpdVd_qpYZJeJ1G&index=5 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qfNNp0Y7CKg&list=PLvbBpVD4ndxNU0n8RstpdVd_qpYZJeJ1G&index=5)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8b0Q_xCopZY&list=PLvbBpVD4ndxNU0n8RstpdVd_qpYZJeJ1G&index=1 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8b0Q_xCopZY&list=PLvbBpVD4ndxNU0n8RstpdVd_qpYZJeJ1G&index=1)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GzrzPegDrOg&list=PLvbBpVD4ndxNU0n8RstpdVd_qpYZJeJ1G&index=2 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GzrzPegDrOg&list=PLvbBpVD4ndxNU0n8RstpdVd_qpYZJeJ1G&index=2)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-MlGpbuB8nY&list=PLvbBpVD4ndxNU0n8RstpdVd_qpYZJeJ1G&index=3 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-MlGpbuB8nY&list=PLvbBpVD4ndxNU0n8RstpdVd_qpYZJeJ1G&index=3)
Pat Benetar- Not obscure :cool: , and my favorite female artist. I don't know what Ms. Benetar's octave range is, but I do know she had operatic trainging, and IMO had the best voice of all women. Her and her band started rocking hard, but like many others went in a more pop direction as her success grew. In her case, it worked well, and I didn't mind because she did all so well. She was very listenable her entire main recording career. For kind of bookmark samples, I am adding a rocking John Cougar Mellencamp cover, and "We Live for Love"..... And latter the highly melodic tune..."We Belong". The last two really provide a great example of the incredible range this woman has.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LoGwWte7am0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LoGwWte7am0)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=86o_QuMt3SE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=86o_QuMt3SE)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qxZInIyOBXk (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qxZInIyOBXk)
-
October 1980 List
1. Styx (No change)
2. Journey (+1)
3. Neil Young (-1)
4. Cars (No change)
5. Boston (No change)
6. Toto (+1)
7. Led Zeppelin (-1)
8. Tom Petty (+1)
9. Fleetwood Mac (+2)
10. Eagles (-2)
11. Off Broadway (+1)
12. Pat Benetar (+1)
13. Eddie Money (-4)
14. Kinks (New)
15. Rush (-1)
16. Bob Seger (-1)
17. Foreigner (No change)
18. Queen (-2)
19. Moody Blues (No change)
20. Rolling Stones (-2)
Kinks- Since the '60's were about a couple of decade digits in the past now, guess I was getting some trendy nostaliga tastes at the time. The Kinks were a big element of the original British invasion, and surely deserve their place in history. I think at the time, I bought the "One for the Road" live album which gave a pretty decent rundown of their fine history of hits. Any '60's-phile has got to have some Kinks in their collection.
Here is the song that was getting air play in '80 that got me interested..... New Wave feel, when the guys played that way quite a bit all along.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ql_m-4jdZE (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ql_m-4jdZE)
Concert-- ZZ Top October 30, 1980 Price on Stub- $8.50-. Another great show, that easily went 3-4 hours Gibbons took a buch of his classics and went into long expressive blues licks. that shredded them like all get out. I know Dusty is gone, but I recommend anyone who can to attend a show. It will be worth your while. If you are a Texan, and haven't seen them...... turn your Texas Card in ASAP. :cool:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6c7d8BYJy8I (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6c7d8BYJy8I)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pN69GC2amTg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pN69GC2amTg)
-
November 1980 List
1. Styx (No change)
2. Journey (No change)
3. Neil Young (No change)
4. Cars (No change)
5. Boston (No change)
6. Tom Petty (+2)
7. Led Zeppelin (No change)
8. Toto ((-2)
9. Pat Benetar (+3)
10. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
11. Eagles (-1)
12. Kinks (+2)
13. Queen (+5)
14. Rush (+1)
15. Off Broadway (-4)
16. Bob Seger (No change)
17. Eddie Money (-4)
18. Foreigner (-1)
19. Moody Blues (No change)
20. Rolling Stones (No change)
Say we keep the theme going with Don Kirschner. Before Robert Palmer was singing in front of hot robotic chicks, he did some light straight forward rock and roll. Interest schtick.... Look like everyone else in the crowd. :silly:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D-dO3JFR920 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D-dO3JFR920)
-
1980 - Pete Townshend
Rough Boys (w/video clips from Quadrophenia)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fJ9rwUqZ2XE)
Let My Love Open the Door
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9dw29xpA0Qg)
-
1980 - John Lennon
Cleanup Time
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PhMvdUCZLkg)
Watching the Wheels
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p6YnizK2LZs)
People asking questions lost in confusion
Well I tell them there's no problem, only solutions
Well they shake their heads and they look at me as if I've lost my mind
I tell them there's no hurry . . . I'm just sitting here doing time
-
1980 - Steve Winwood
While You See a Chance
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lNidUTQiutw)
-
1980 - Peter Gabriel
Games Without Frontiers
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XHc0W30mmZ0)
-
1980 - The Police
De Do Do Do De Da Da Da (Live, '80)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zLM1FwmXvRQ)
-
1980 - The Rolling Stones
She's So Cold
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jo34VhfcetU)
Dance (Pt. 1)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=npnOcIsjo4Q)
-
1980 - Van Halen
Everybody Wants Some
(Video is from my favorite Christmas movie)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YDsKGyu0F98)
-
1980 - Alan Parsons Project
Games People Play
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SLi7Ljcy6n8)
-
1980 - Yes
Does It Really Happen
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8SXO_Dj8R_8)
-
1980 - Genesis
Turn It On Again
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=StfLy3pzno0)
-
1980 - Black Sabbath
Heaven and Hell
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fgaBMFi1oc)
-
1980 - Ozzy Osborne
Crazy Train
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Djrl6fu8myo)
-
1980 - Dire Straits
Solid Rock (Live, '80)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lzldw_EI_30)
-
1980 - Blue Oyster Cult
The Marshall Plan (Live, '80)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JLSLoFdGtKo)
Black Blade
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XCxL3-Fl7bM)
-
1980 - U2 debuts
I Will Follow
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-sLzV00gNUo)
-
1979 - John Cougar
I Need a Lover
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i5awOcfZBHA)
-
December 1980 List
1. Styx- (No change)
2. Neil Young (+1)
3. Journey (-1)
4. Cars (No change)
5. Boston (No change)
6. Led Zeppelin (+1)
7. Toto (+1)
8. Pat Benetar (+1)
9. Tom Petty (-3)
10. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
11. Queen (+2)
12. Eagles (+1)
13. The Who (New)
14. Kinks (-2)
15. Rush (-1)
16. Off Broadway (-1)
17. Emerson Lake and Palmer (New)
18. Foreigner (No change)
19. Kansas (New)
20. Bob Seger (-4)
In honor of my half-hillbilly heritage....... Get on board.....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DP8TcK3QiAw (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DP8TcK3QiAw)
-
January 1981 List
1. Styx (No change)
2. Journey (No change)
3. Neil Young (No change)
4. Pat Benetar (+4)
5. Cars (-1)
6. Boston (-1)
7. Led Zeppelin (-1)
8. The Dictators (New)
9. Toto (-2)
10. Tom Petty (-1)
11. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
12. Eagles (No change)
13. The Who (No change)
14. Off Broadway (+2)
15. Kinks (-1)
16. Rush (-1)
17. Kansas (+2)
18. Emerson Lake and Palmer (-1)
19. Queen (-8)
20. Foreigner (-2)
The Dictators-. How about some more obscurity? This is a hard rocking punk band, kind of in the vein of the Ramones. According to their wiki page, only one of their albums charted, and charted at #193. Surprised they didn't have more success, considering how big raw punk become with the almost instantaneous infusion of the Ramones and Sex Pistols. Here is 3 that I remember that got air play back in the day.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xuKd65C6jvU (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xuKd65C6jvU)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HnDXPbUCK60 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HnDXPbUCK60)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kMTAatF6FOI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kMTAatF6FOI)
-
February 1981 list
1. Styx (No change)
2. Journey (No change)
3. Neil Young (No change)
4. Pat Benetar (No change)
5. Cars (No change)
6. Boston (No change)
7. Led Zeppelin (No change)
8. Toto (+1)
9. Fleetwood Mac (+2)
10. Tom Petty (No change)
11. Eagles (+1)
12. Dictators (-4)
13. The Who (No change)
14. Off Broadway (No change)
15. Rush (+2)
16. Kinks (-1)
17. Kansas (No Change)
18. Emerson Lake and Palmer (No change)
19. Foreigner (+1)
20. Queen (-1)
Concert- Christopher Cross - February 12, 1981- Part III of making a girl friend happy. But I will have to admit, it was a pretty good concert to take a date to. Pretty talented soft rock crooner , if you are really into that. Career was a pretty much the proverbial flash in the pan. Chart buster out the gate, and then fell off a cliff.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VzgQoGvSKA4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VzgQoGvSKA4)
-
March 1981 List
1. Styx (No change)
2. Journey (No change)
3. Neil Young (No change)
4. Pat Benetar (No change)
5. Boston (+1)
6. Cars (-1)
7. Led Zeppelin (No change)
8. Fleetwood Mac (+1)
9. Toto (-1)
10. Eagles (+1)
11. Dictators (+1)
12. Tom Petty (-2)
13. Kansas (+4)
14. Off Broadway (No change)
15. Rush (No change)
16. Emerson Lake and Palmer (+2)
17. The Who (-4)
18. Kinks (-2)
19. REO Speedwagon (New)
20. Queen (No change)
REO Speedwagon- If you are a classic rock fan, I'd bet there is a pretty good probability that you have the 1980 Hi-Infidelity. Album incredibly charted 3 Top 25 and one No. 1. But to facts, REO actually went back to the early '70's. Pretty much almost their 1st decade of existence, they were infamously the 2nd or 3rd act in concerts throughout the country. They basically ran their career on one really good tune "Riding the Storm Out", along with a couple of middle rocking bluesey tunes. But their epitah is lined with the "Journey Effect". Get drunk on some short term pop-rock success. After their moment in the sun in the early to mid '80's they rightfully fell out of view.
In spite my own disliking of giving overplayed hyped samples..... Here is their signature tune that did hit No.1. Leave it to these guys to over cheese it. (sorry)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wJzNZ1c5C9c (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wJzNZ1c5C9c)
-
REO Speedwagon- If you are a classic rock fan, I'd bet there is a pretty good probability that you have the 1980 Hi-Infidelity. Album incredibly charted 3 Top 25 and one No. 1. But to facts, REO actually went back to the early '70's. Pretty much almost their 1st decade of existence, they were infamously the 2nd or 3rd act in concerts throughout the country. They basically ran their career on one really good tune "Riding the Storm Out", along with a couple of middle rocking bluesey tunes.
This one is from 1971:
157 Riverside Avenue
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dApg72sosT8)
I was not a fan of Hi Infidelity.
-
1980 - Rush, Permanent Waves album.
(http://weareclassicrockers.com/sites/classicrockers.rock.tools/files/styles/site_width_image/public/2020-02/Rush-Moving-Pictures-Cover-2.jpg)
Spirit of Radio (Live, '84)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zI5KWfq91kM)
Entre Nous
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sodthxK1z44)
-
1980 - AC/DC - Back in Black album (post Bon Scott)
Super album. Not a bad song on it.
Shoot to Thrill
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LIzPbnIp2QM)
You Shook Me All Night Long
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lo2qQmj0_h4)
Let Me Put My Love Into You
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ehS5qtwA9OY)
-
I was not a fan of Hi Infidelity.
Good cheesy catchy hooks in 1981 do not make for a good listen in 2022.
Not a fan now for sure.
-
1980 - Rush, Permanent Waves album.
(http://weareclassicrockers.com/sites/classicrockers.rock.tools/files/styles/site_width_image/public/2020-02/Rush-Moving-Pictures-Cover-2.jpg)
Words can not describe how great I think this album is. I just can't hide it.
When this isn't even the best song on the album? Dang!!!!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EndaI-okEIc (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EndaI-okEIc)
Natural Science Live.... From Permanent Waves
-
Freewill (Live, '81)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZiYGR9S0FIU)
I saw Rush at the Cap Center in DC in 1980, my senior year in high school.
-
1981 - Rush - Moving Pictures album
Red Barchetta (Live '81)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PjjNvjURS-s)
YYZ (Live w/Peart solo)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k4hKhBuNF3Y)
Limelight
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UuEr6fheqDI)
-
(https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/272450874_4629320347179144_5314278895544969748_n.jpg?_nc_cat=1&ccb=1-5&_nc_sid=8bfeb9&_nc_ohc=b8gIMErLg00AX8TOw9i&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AT8gIbJVk2_JrDni_xNLiA1e_rwYbBfbhDWsbYLg3utmmw&oe=61F98D4C)
-
1981 - The Moody Blues - Long Distance Voyager album.
The Voice
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uiPzKbT21Vc)
Gemini Dream
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j3QLFFVFpp0)
-
1981 - Genesis
Abacab
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QbjfesCI254)
-
The Moody Blues. One of my all time favorite bands. So talented, and their music so very unique. I've seen them in concert several times and as old as they are, they never disappoint.
It's really difficult to pick a favorite tune.
-
1981 - The Moody Blues - Long Distance Voyager album.
The Voice
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uiPzKbT21Vc)
Gemini Dream
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j3QLFFVFpp0)
The Moody Blues. One of my all time favorite bands. So talented, and their music so very unique. I've seen them in concert several times and they have never disappointed.
It's really difficult to pick a favorite tune.
-
1981 - Ozzy Osbourne
Flying High Again
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qmkJSHp3GOs)
-
Another band rises up out of Athens, GA (after the B-52s)
REM - 1981 demo tape
Radio Free Europe
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HksAWcA729A)
-
1981 - Van Halen
Unchained (Live, '81)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cn8APTMyKsg)
-
More RUSH (because they're AWESOME)
In the End (Live, '76)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s-Zj4EMq7vY)
The Necromancer ('75)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JphWi_GOIao)
-
April 1981 List-
1. Styx (No change)
2. Journey (No change)
3. Neil Young (No change)
4. Pat Benetar (No change)
5. Boston (No change)
6. Billy Joel (New)
7. Led Zeppelin (No change)
8. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
9. Cars (-3)
10. Toto (-1)
11. The Police (New)
12. Eagles (-2)
13. Kansas (No change)
14. Tom Petty (-2)
15. Dictators (-4)
16. Rush (-1)
17. Off Broadway (-1)
18. REO Speedwagon (+1)
19. Emerson Lake and Palmer (-3)
20. The Who (-3)
The Police- The Police and The Cars basically held the spots of titans in this era for New Wave. The Police had a different sound, with less electronics, more reggae influence. They differed in one way, in that their work seemed to generally get progressively better with each album while the Cars seemed at their zenith with their 1st 2 LP's. Style wise, the Cars seemed more straight forward and cheery, while Sting et. al prefered a more dark, foreboding lyricaly l and musically. IF I had to pick a preferable Police LP, I'd probably go with Ghost in the Machine. As far as between the bands, to me it is almost a tie. If I did have to choose, I'd guess I'd go with the Cars, as their best songs, are better than the Police's best. Plus the Police only had 5 studio albums
Still, they area great listen,and you can't picture life in the early '80's without an occasional Police song blaring in the background. There were pretty much ubiquity on radio at that time. Think i will offer the good tracks tht got airplay (I hate f'n Roxanne- sorry). Great songs.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WMl1xKJeuuQ&list=PLBnJv6rImVe9d2c5lJRP2ThrQ0ypway1j&index=1 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WMl1xKJeuuQ&list=PLBnJv6rImVe9d2c5lJRP2ThrQ0ypway1j&index=1)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6SgVJg5lQxI&list=PLrpyDacBCh7CtSVA-XbsiLbMK6KU9zhCI&index=1 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6SgVJg5lQxI&list=PLrpyDacBCh7CtSVA-XbsiLbMK6KU9zhCI&index=1)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m1NdMkXEQTw&list=PLrpyDacBCh7CtSVA-XbsiLbMK6KU9zhCI&index=7 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m1NdMkXEQTw&list=PLrpyDacBCh7CtSVA-XbsiLbMK6KU9zhCI&index=7)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5nljyEJDdg&list=PLBmNb0-p0NbvqOMijPn1cOaNzs6LX_AlN&index=1 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5nljyEJDdg&list=PLBmNb0-p0NbvqOMijPn1cOaNzs6LX_AlN&index=1)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yfDjZ3jlzu8&list=PLBmNb0-p0NbvqOMijPn1cOaNzs6LX_AlN&index=3 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yfDjZ3jlzu8&list=PLBmNb0-p0NbvqOMijPn1cOaNzs6LX_AlN&index=3)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZlRX03BzeA&list=PLBnJv6rImVe9ReRWEytmSuTL67PT4zu-r&index=8 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZlRX03BzeA&list=PLBnJv6rImVe9ReRWEytmSuTL67PT4zu-r&index=8)
Billy Joel-. Highly sucesssful pop sensation. Another puzzler, why I thought this at that time could be a top 5 band at the time. I guess I got caught up in the Glass Houses thing, wore narrow ties, Ray Bans, and thought I was I was cool. Shit I must have looked trendily stupid at the time. I guess I bought off on this crappy New Wave Fakery. I sure hope no one got pictures.
And no offense to the folks who are into piano man's crooning. Might be your thing... Not mine.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nTWSXhMKX4I&list=PLraUXdMOSKKEpSFg4k6EEuXKBfPAQhNex&index=2 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nTWSXhMKX4I&list=PLraUXdMOSKKEpSFg4k6EEuXKBfPAQhNex&index=2)
-
May 1981 List
1. Styx (No change)
2. Journey (No change)
3. Neil Young (No change)
4. Pat Benetar (No change)
5. Billy Joel (+1)
6. Boston (-1)
7. Led Zeppelin (No change)
8. Police (+3)
9. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
10. Toto (-1)
11. Cars (-2)
12. REO Speedwagon (+6)
13. Kansas (No change)
14. Tom Petty (No change)
15. Eagles (-3)
16. Romantics (New)
17. Rush (-1)
18. Devo (New)
19. Dictators (-4)
20. Off Broadway (-3)
Devo- . This is the first time, I have ever gone back through these list, and in some cases I am pretty shocked what I listed as good, or believe that I bought into some of these "fads". I am more proud of my muscial tastes in the early '70's versus the early '80's. Having Devo is just one of several examples, Billy Joel, another. Proliferation of music videos and MTV didn't help. Devo, as everyone knows employed a simple schtick....... Wear matching stupid jump suits and wear flower pots on their heads. When a musical genre really starts getting traction (New Wave), for every Cars and Police, you get 20 DEVO's.
Want to get a laugh?, and this is from their wiki page explaining what DEVO means...."The name DEVO comes from the concept of "de-evolution" and the band's related idea that instead of continuing to evolve, mankind had begun to regress, as evidenced by the dysfunction and herd mentality of American society." While that dystopian vision sure has some truth to it, they became the same band that by the end had 9 studio albums, and 11 compliations. Just how many ways can you repackage crap to DEVO'ed minds? :silly:
Me? I am just dreading when I have to admit when I get the point where I have to report that "The Knack" made my list. This is my DEVO period of musical tastes. If I guess I have to add a track, I'll give you their hit...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j_QLzthSkfM (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j_QLzthSkfM)
ARGH!!!!!!!!!!!
Romantics- - Another decent two hit wonder band that had a brief career, based simply on 2 songs (1st video) "What I Like About You", which might be one of the best New Wave songs of the era. And 2nd, the sappy "Talking in Your Sleep" which basically was fed by a video hyped by hot women. (Golly Gee, wonder how many times that was repeated on MTV?)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rqnw5IfbZOU (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rqnw5IfbZOU)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JmGMzyajA2U (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JmGMzyajA2U)
-
I stopped serious listening to Classic Rock as much in 1975.
Coincidentally, that is the year I got married and I had to surrender my JBL L200s. 8888crybaby
-
I stopped serious listening to Classic Rock as much in 1975.
Coincidentally, that is the year I got married and I had to surrender my JBL L200s. 8888crybaby
That's about as good a benchmark as any to pinpoint when rock went into decline. In that day, finding and wanting an album was like being a kid in a candy store. By 15 years later, it was the opposite.
-
Hard to imagine, but Neil Peart had a musical career before Rush..... Even with this gawd awful album, you can sure tell that there is some serious percussion work there.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2mCUVe-VrVE&t=761s (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2mCUVe-VrVE&t=761s)
I don't know how many of you Briefers are drummers, but I found this clinic video from the professor fascinating. Never thought banging a drum was so complicated. :cool:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CBNfDggYVlw (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CBNfDggYVlw)
-
RUSH - '74 Live
Working Man (with John Rutsey on drums)
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZYr_J9H54I)
-
RUSH - Live '76
Working Man (with Neil Peart on drums)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ix0UnBHIBtQ)
-
RUSH - 1973
Not Fade Away (Buddy Holly cover)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wDlK52SvJVY)
-
One more for the road...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tPzA4hqHj2s (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tPzA4hqHj2s)
-
1981 - Journey
This is the only Journey song you will ever see me post on this forum. The rest of them are for girls.
Dixie Highway
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iNZStNxwpnw)
-
1981 - Blue Oyster Cult
Burning For You
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ipqqEFoJPL4)
-
June 1981 List-
1. Styx- (No change)
2. Neil Young (+1)
3. Journey (-1)
4. Pat Benetar (No change)
5. Billy Joel (No change)
6. Led Zeppelin (+1)
7. Boston (-1)
8. Police (No change)
9. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
10. Kansas (+3)
11. Toto (-1)
12. Cars (-1)
13. REO Speedwagon (-1)
14. Rush (+3)
15. Eagles (No change)
16. Devo (+2)
17. Dire Straits (New)
18. Tom Petty (-4)
19. Romantics (-3)
20. Off Broadway (No change)
Dire Straits- . Kind of like Eddie Van Halen, there is no mistaking the sound of Mark Knoppler's sound. His smooth guitar runs and eccletric song writing filled many a moment in my drive times. Dire Straits was just good old fashioned rock and roll with just enough twinge of blues to give their sound that oomph that many in that era loved. His laid back vocals like in Sultans of Swing were great, and that great sound went on for over 5 very consistent albums. Amazing this band covered so much ground on those 5 albums. They did make a forgettable 6th album, that almost seemed like an afterthought.
I had previously added the Making Movies video suite, which btw I feel includes their very best work. So for a sample, I am going to give you a tune that though a long listen, does a great job of encapsulating everything great about all the styles and tenors of Dire Straits in one neat, but 14 minute long package.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d8bWGGA-5HM&list=OLAK5uy_n6SBFCyrA2XKrQ_V3-xK9MBZb62b-l92c (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d8bWGGA-5HM&list=OLAK5uy_n6SBFCyrA2XKrQ_V3-xK9MBZb62b-l92c)
-
December 1973-April 1974 List
1. Alice Cooper (no change)
2. Black Sabbath (no change)
3. Led Zeppelin (+4)
4. Uriah Heep (-2)
5. Three Dog Night (-1)
6. The Guess Who (+4)
7. Chicago (-1)
8. Grand Funk (-3)
9. Black Oak Arkansas (-1)
10. Deep Purple- (-1)
11. Rare Earth- (No Change)
12. Elton John (+7)
13. Steve Miller Band (New)
14. Jethro Tull (+3)
15. Edgar Winter Group (+5)
16. J. Geils Band (+2)
17. Yes (-3)
18. Rolling Stones (-5)
19. The Who (-3)
20. Eric Clapton (-5)
Zeppelin up due to airplay of Houses of the Holy, Steve Miller Band- The Joker
Albums those months-
Alice Cooper- Killer
Three Dog Night-Cyan
Alice Cooper - Love it to Death
Chicago- III
Black Oak- Self Titleed
Creedence Clearwater Revival- Cosmos Factory
Black Sabbath- Volume IV
The Guess Wh0- Best Of.
Steve Miller was getting lot's of air play at that time, and I was diggin' it.
I just listened to American Woman by The Guess Who. As fine a rock and roll classic as there is out there.
http://youtu.be/9uf6EY2BZBw
-
1980 - The Grateful Dead releases Go To Heaven album.
Althea
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZZNZgtj26Fk)
Don't Ease Me In (Live, '80)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1K65gIPafiE)
Alabama Getaway
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s3QpBCRiUcI)
-
My favorite song of all time
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m0EBs6uRgtw&ab_channel=rbvo
I saw Medley and Hatfield perform at the Las Vegas Hilton in 2003 a few months prior to Bobby's death. Same place that Elvis had 58 consecutive sold out shows in 1969.
They were wonderful, even though the melodious Medley had a bit of cracking in his voice.
-
1981 - Rainbow
Can't Happen Here
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PARgfglpXQw)
Difficult to Cure (Live, '84 - credit to Ludwig Van Beethöven)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8yzvZAtC5h4)
-
Considering that my walls were covered with Beatle photos that was my passion in the 60's
Never cared for heavy rock which was a good thing since my mother would never allowed me to bring it in the house..I had enough trouble with her accepting the Beatles..lol
Here are a few artists that I bought albums and 45's
The Dave Clark Five
Jay & The Americans
Tommy James and the Shondels
Johnny Rivers
Beach Boys
Elvis....of course
Supremes
Simon and Garfunkel
Peter, Paul and Mary
Roy Orbison
The Righteous Brothers
and many more
Here is the voice
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1sFy5_kmEi4&ab_channel=flydguzmon
I love that Jay and Americans' song (PS - was that you dancing with the booties on in the video background?)
This is the one I listened to more.
http://youtu.be/V8lRsmyRJg8
This was those years when performers really sang and voices were not covered up with loud music, as well as lyrics that you were not ashamed to tell your kids you listened to.
Here's a few more I bought albums or 45s of
Gary Lewis and the Playboys
Herman's Hermits
Ricky Nelson
Petula Clark
Freddy and the Dreamers
The Loving Spoonful
The Kinks
The Hollies
The Monkees
The Young Rascals
Paul Revere and the Raiders
The Four Seasons
-
My favorite song of all time
Unchained Melody (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m0EBs6uRgtw&ab_channel=rbvo)
@mystery-ak @IsailedawayfromFR @Bigun
Heart (Live, '80)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=knlEdfv99i8)
-
Hard to go wrong with anything in his repertoire of work. You could start with "Damn the Torepdoes", to as I mentioned "Full Moon Fever", to "Into the Great Wide Open" and beyond. Petty is the one act that I most reget not being able to see. As far as a sample?, too target rich of an environment. Think I will go with what I feel is almost requiem-ist farewell from the master himself. His passing left a gaping void in rock.
To me, it was seeing The Who in concert I regret never seeing.
-
To me, it was seeing The Who in concert I regret never seeing.
Luckily got to see them in December 1982.
-
Saw Tom Petty twice (on account of my ex-wife). I made the mistake of taking her to a Dead show. Learned that lesson real quick. She stayed at home after that.
1981 - Tom Petty
The Waiting (Live)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mm2Br5OLPlQ)
-
I love that Jay and Americans' song (PS - was that you dancing with the booties on in the video background?)
This is the one I listened to more.
http://youtu.be/V8lRsmyRJg8
This was those years when performers really sang and voices were not covered up with loud music, as well as lyrics that you were not ashamed to tell your kids you listened to.
Here's a few more I bought albums or 45s of
Gary Lewis and the Playboys
Herman's Hermits
Ricky Nelson
Petula Clark
Freddy and the Dreamers
The Loving Spoonful
The Kinks
The Hollies
The Monkees
The Young Rascals
Paul Revere and the Raiders
The Four Seasons
I actually saw Petula Clark when we took a trip years ago to Branson, MO. Not that she was one of my favorites in any way, but she was part of the vacation tour that we took that year. :shrug:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wv5nd-3BRr4
-
When I was a young teenager I was very much a Monkees fan. happy77
www.youtube.com/watch?v=gv2MLlZKarM
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Here is the voice
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1sFy5_kmEi4&ab_channel=flydguzmon
What will blow you away is listening to him sing exactly the same at 72. WOW.
http://youtu.be/oQqDGEIhVxE
@mystery-ak
-
I'll offer up the weirdest song that reached the top 100 in the past 60 years.
http://youtu.be/hnzHtm1jhL4
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I saw Black Oak several times and they were wild fun. Best thing about them was that they introduced the world to Ruby Starr. She was spectacular.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D0FPxuQv2ns
I remember Ruby Starr this way. Shortest dress I ever saw. Man those days were fun! Go Jim Dandy! @debrawiest
http://youtu.be/LyEgrWw0Xog
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July 1981 List
1. Styx (No change)
2. Neil Young (No change)
3. Journey (No change)
4. Pat Benetar (No change)
5. Led Zeppelin (+1)
6. Boston (+1)
7. Billy Joel (-2)
8. Kansas (+2)
9. Police (-1)
10. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
11. REO Speedwagon (+2)
12. Cars (N change)
13. Rush (+1)
14. Eagles (+1)
15. UFO (New)
16. Devo (No change)
17. Dire Straits (No change)
18. Tom Petty (No change)
19. Heart (New)
20. Eddie Money (New)
UFO- Another really really good band, that never got past back up band status in the arena concert circuit. Surprised after looking it up, they had little or no success in cracking the charts. Honestly, I think competition was so fierece for our vinyl dollars in those day, that they always just came up short. Guys were def. competent, so guess just another mystery of getting the breaks.
Here is a kick ass example of what they sounded like in the late '70's and early '80's. Diggin' that Flying V.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C8LAhjKLhro (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C8LAhjKLhro)
Heart- I know what you are saying..... It took all the way to mid 1981 to add Heart to the top 20?.... And folks I will be take that criticism for being late to the game. The Wilson sisters were hit making machines who flat out rocked out. When I later saw them concert, I was really impressed with their ability to play so tight that it gave credence to the studio versions. The only bands I saw who did it better were Blue Oyster Cult, Rush, and Yes.
Heart charted 33 hits. And I bet pretty much everyone is quite familar with their massive repertoire , so I'll go with an outlier. I am not much into power ballads, but this might be the most powerful ones ever composed in rock.....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Cw1ng75KP0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Cw1ng75KP0)
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I remember Ruby Starr this way. Shortest dress I ever saw. Man those days were fun! Go Jim Dandy! @debrawiest
http://youtu.be/LyEgrWw0Xog
I must have been at that same concert. Short enough, and explicit enough to safely say the carpets matched the drapes. (Not that I was staring) :laugh:
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August 1981 List
1. Styx (No change)
2. Journey (+1)
3. Neil Young (-1)
4. Led Zeppelin (+1)
5. Pat Benetar (-1)
6. Boston (No change)
7. Bill Joel (No change)
8. Kansas (No change)
9. Fleetwood Mac (+1)
10. Police (-1)
11. REO Speedwagon (No change)
12. Eagles (+2)
13. Heart (+6)
14. Cars (-2)
15. Rush (-2)
16. Dire Straits (+1)
17. Foreigner (New)
18. Tom Petty (No change)
19. DEVO (-2)
20. Eddie Money (No change)
On a scale of 10, this is an 11 on the amp of cool and awesome. I can not imagine what classic rock would have looked or sounded like without Led Zeppelin......
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k-WSbMW7BPc&t=1263s (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k-WSbMW7BPc&t=1263s)
-
September 1981 List
1. Styx (No change)
2. Neil Young (+1)
3. Journey (-1)
4. Led Zeppelin (No change)
5. Pat Benetar (No change)
6. Boston (No change)
7. Kansas (+1)
8. Rush (+7)
9. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
10. Billy Joel (-2)
11. Police (-1)
12. REO Speedwagon (-1)
13. Jefferson Starship (New)
14. Eagles (-2)
15. Heart (-2)
16. Cars (-2)
17. AC DC (New)
18. Dire Straits (-2)
19. Foreigner (-2)
20. Tom Petty (-2)
AC DC-. Wow... another embarassing omission that is just now showing up late 1981. This is the ultimate 3 chord grind it in your face rock and roll band. What you see is what you get. What might be a simplistic musical model also made this into one of the greatest rock bands of all time. Sadly, I have a really lame excuse for this oversight. In the '70's I had heard that these guys were gay, or by nature of their name bi-sexual. The electrical voltage motif, escaped me, as I thought everything in rock and roll had ulterior meanings. My homophobic butt bought off on this bogus rumour, and I missed out entirely the Bon Scott era. 9999hair out0000
So when I was finally englightened, I was marveled at what these guys could do with Boom-Boom-Boom in repetition. Hell, I could listen to Yes or Rush if I wanted musicanship....... This was balls to walls Rock and Roll that made your sternum vibrate when the speakers were cranked up. This is another band, that if I gave any one sample, I'd do dis-service to their legacy. So, I will repeat an earlier post of their latest work which is a nicely done anthology of their career. Kind of sad, because it is almost treated as a Swansong.......
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7-bIFDMSFA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7-bIFDMSFA)
-
October 1981 List
1. Styx (No change)
2. Neil Young (No change)
3. Journey (No change)
4. Rush (+4)
5. Led Zeppelin (-1)
6. Pat Benetar (-1)
7. Boston (-1)
8. Jefferson Starship (+5)
9. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
10. Dire Straits (+8)
11. Kansas (-4)
12. Billy Joel (-2)
13. Police (-2)
14. AC DC (+3)
15. REO Speedwagon (-3)
16. Heart (-1)
17. Eagles (-3)
18. Car (-2)
19. Foereigner (No change)
20. Tom Petty (No change)
Here is a band in a that in a few months in list terms will debut. How he/they didn't become a more substantial act was strange. 4 very strongs tracks on 1st album. To me, they are like what would be if Buddy Holly met Elvis Costello who met The Cars. Really not a definable genre to put the pin on.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EyozqCucVXg&list=PLrpyDacBCh7AdXIklCP_y0agR1WYCGzzs&index=1 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EyozqCucVXg&list=PLrpyDacBCh7AdXIklCP_y0agR1WYCGzzs&index=1)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VHfBMex0PrA&list=PLrpyDacBCh7AdXIklCP_y0agR1WYCGzzs&index=2 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VHfBMex0PrA&list=PLrpyDacBCh7AdXIklCP_y0agR1WYCGzzs&index=2)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8bVOJM6-zPI&list=PLrpyDacBCh7AdXIklCP_y0agR1WYCGzzs&index=8 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8bVOJM6-zPI&list=PLrpyDacBCh7AdXIklCP_y0agR1WYCGzzs&index=8)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yXMwHrmBPqs&list=PLrpyDacBCh7AdXIklCP_y0agR1WYCGzzs&index=9 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yXMwHrmBPqs&list=PLrpyDacBCh7AdXIklCP_y0agR1WYCGzzs&index=9)
-
1980/81 - Saxon
Dallas 1 PM
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ku-VDiuV0qo)
Wheels of Steel
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mKlF9o2R3cI)
747
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gq6VhHTYGq0)
And the Bands Played On (Live, '83)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tj7v89bjIqc)
-
1981 - Styx
Rockin' the Paradise (Live)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zWaft0Fdb8U)
-
November 1981 List-
1. Styx (No change)
2. Neil Young (No change)
3. Journey (No change)
4. Rush (No change)
5. Led Zeppelin (No change)
6. Boston (+1)
7. Jefferson Starship (+1)
8. Pat Benetar (-2)
9. Dire Straits (+1)
10. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
11. Kansas (No change)
12. Bob Seger (New)
13. AC DC (+1)
14. Police (-1)
15. Billy Joel- (-3)
16. REO Speedwagon (-1)
17. Foreigner (-1)
18. Eagles (-1)
19. Heart (-3)
20. Cars (-2)
At about this time late '81 or early '82, NY Dolls alumnus David Johanson came out with this outstanding Animals cover. No offense to Eric Burdon and company, but this is another one of those fairly rare examples of where the cover was better.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B_my7pGkN_s (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B_my7pGkN_s)
-
December 1981 List
1. Styx (No change)
2. Neil Young (No change)
3. Journey (No change)
4. Bob Seger (+7)
5. Rush (-1)
6. Led Zeppelin (-1)
7. Boston (-1)
8. Jefferson Starship (-1)
9. Dire Straits (No change)
10. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
11. Pat Benetar (-3)
12. Kansas (-1)
13. AC DC (No change)
14. Foreigner (+3)
15. REO Speedwagon (+1)
16. Eagles (+2)
17. Police (-3)
18. Billy Joel- (-3)
19. Cars (+1)
20. Heart (-1)
Concert- December 9, 1981- Billy Thorpe, Johnny Van Zant, and Blackfoot-Price on stub $9.50-
Billy Thorpe- Classic one hit wonder. But it was one hell of a hit. Great tune, and it was played at the concert!!!!! Played this one many times "LOUD" in the car. Don't forget the headphones on this one folks.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RGPUBSQLgfs (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RGPUBSQLgfs)
Johnny Van Zant- Latter Synkryd singer who obviously can't write songs worth a damn. Set was pointless. He's obviously a Van Zant in name only.
Blackfoot- - Okay Southern Rockers I guess. But weak as a headliner. For a reminder, here is the tune that they were probably best known for....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jxOJj0yKrxE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jxOJj0yKrxE)
-
January 1982 List
1. Styx (No change)
2. Neil Young (No change)
3. Journey (No change)
4. Foreigner (+10)
5. Rush (No change)
6. Bob Seger (-2)
7. Dire Straits (+2)
8. Led Zeppelin (-2)
9. Boston (-2)
10. Jefferson Starshiip (-2)
11. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
12. Kansas (No change)
13. Pat Benetar (-2)
14. AC DC (-1)
15. Eagles (+1)
16. REO Speedwagon (-1)
17. Police (No change)
18. Billy Joel (No change)
19. Cars (No change)
20. Heart (No change)
Huge move up with Foreigner this month was on the strength of their best album IV. This is such a solid consistent album, Think Ill just include the whole LP.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WBgNh0s3Bmw (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WBgNh0s3Bmw)
And secondly for the 1981/82 ish time era. A tune from an album that has maybe my favorite album cover of all time. There's nothing cooler than cannons. And the album kicks ass too. Proof Brian Johnson was no fluke. (also in entirety)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PbzsMt-uvrc (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PbzsMt-uvrc)
-
February 1982 List
1. Styx (No change)
2. Neil Young (No change)
3. Foreigner (+1)
4. Journey (-1)
5. Bob Seger (+1)
6. Rush (-1)
7. Dire Straits (No change)
8. Led Zeppelin (No change)
9. Boston (No change)
10. Jefferson Starship (No change)
11. AC DC (+2)
12. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
13. Kansas (-1)
14. REO Speedwagon (+2)
15. Pat Benetar (-2)
16. Eagles (-1)
17. Police (No change)
18. Tom Petty (New)
19. Cars (No change)
20. Billy Joel (-2)
Early live version of this Yes classic..... Guy's this young in their early to mid 20's, being able to make and perform music at this level? Remarkable!!!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nx_GIji9EGw (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nx_GIji9EGw)
-
1981 - Foreigner
Urgent
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AwPh5i6Z9rA)
Juke Box Hero
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qTYdNEwBbUk)
-
1981 - J Geils Band
Freeze Frame
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qsa_Ehw27FM)
-
1981 - The Who
Another Tricky Day
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OhuLhcbY_08)
-
1981 - The Police
Invisible Sun
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1VuDjJ9KIxM)
Demolition Man
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vf7To6vdg7A)
-
1981 - .38 Special
Wild-Eyed Southern Boys
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZCq4EkzLlQM)
Hold On Loosely
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vJtf7R_oVaw)
-
1981 - The Dixie Dregs
Cruise Control (combination of Jazz and Southern rock)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dsM2FFn2xTY)
-
1981 - The Cars
Since You're Gone
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FqHIkkRrwcQ)
-
1980 - Robbin Thompson Band
Candy Apple Red
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kbXsasNfXlU)
Looking for a home run, but getting thrown out at the plate.
-
1975 - Head East
Never Been Any Reason
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EwuMydSSAKs)
-
March 1982 List
1. Styx (No change)
2. Neil Young (No change)
3. Foreigner (No change)
4. Journey (No change)
5. Bob Seger (No change)
6. Rush (No change)
7. Dire Straits (No change)
8. Led Zeppelin (No change)
9. Jefferson Starship (+1)
10. Boston (-1)
11. AC DC (No change)
12. Pat Benetar (+3)
13. Kansas (No change)
14. Fleetwood Mac (-2)
15. REO Speedwagon (-1)
16. Cars (+3)
17. Eagles (-1)
18. Police (-1)
19. Tom Petty (-1)
20. Billy Joel (No change)
This is still 3 years away for TP, but just love how it just expounds on the variability of Petty/Heartbreakers talents.... Some band have and have not aged well with the test of time. Tom Petty is like an old fine vintage wine. Better each listen.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h0JvF9vpqx8 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h0JvF9vpqx8)
-
1977 - Boston
Hitch a Ride
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LZtuFg4lb3Y)
-
No love for Little Feat? Am I the only fan here? Lowell George is da shizzle.
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lZjDqdCmjqo)
I love the live version of "Dixie Chicken".
-
Dixie Chicken (Live)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7RvR3j535qc)
-
I used to have some bootleg Little Feat album called Chinese Bejeezus. Never saw another copy of it anywhere.
Two Trains
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Qnn_B0xILU)
All That You Dream
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yXGOZkej-qY)
-
April 1982 List
1. Styx- No change
2. Journey (+2)
3. Foreigner- (No change)
4. Neil Young (-2)
5. Rush (+1)
6. Bob Seger (-1)
7. Dire Straits (No change)
8. Led Zeppelin (No change)
9. Jefferson Starship (No change)
10. Boston (No change)
11. Christopher Cross (New)
12. Fleetwood Mac (+2)
13. AC DC (-2)
14. Pat Benetar (-2)
15. Joan Jett- New
16. Kansas (-3)
17. REO Speedwagon- (-2)
18. Police (No change)
19. Cars (-3)
20. Eagles (-3)
Joan Jett- An alum of the old full girl rock band The Runaways. Hardest rocking lady of the ladies. Very straight forward rock and roll, and got some pretty big hits in the early to mid '80's. Cover of Crimson and Clover, I Love Rock and Roll, and this one..... She was a sexy rock star, and milked it well on stage. Too bad she hagged out on us, and became a left wing advocate. Sheesh, too bad.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DSqp-W1pWoU (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DSqp-W1pWoU)
And drum roll.....
Concert- April 5, 1982 Rigg and Rush- Price on stub- $10.50.- This by far was the greatest and most favorite concert event in my entire life. Show was mesmerizing. It was surreal seeing such precision, talent, and musicianship in a 2 hour period. Visuals were so beyond their times, as it was supporting the Moving Pictures tour. Which critically is considered among their best.
So hard to explain how great it was. As I got older, I kept saying I wanted to attend another Rush concert, but let time get away, and now that will never happen. Did find the set list, and it as follows. Also am adding a video/concert of as I remembered them.
2112 Part I: Overture
2112 Part II: The Temples of Syrinx
Freewill
Limelight
Cygnus X-1 Book II: Hemispheres Part I: Prelude
Beneath, Between & Behind
Subdivisions
The Camera Eye
YYZ
Drum Solo
Broon's Bane
The Trees
The Analog Kid
The Spirit of Radio
Red Barchetta
Closer to the Heart
Tom Sawyer
Vital Signs
Working Man
Cygnus X-1 Book II: Hemispheres Part IV: Armageddon
By-Tor & The Snow Dog
In the End
In the Mood
2112 Part VII: Grand Finale
La Villa Strangiato
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q0xkMfiHIec (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q0xkMfiHIec)
-
Concert- April 5, 1982 Rigg and Rush- Price on stub- $10.50.- This by far was the greatest and most favorite concert event in my entire life. Show was mesmerizing. It was surreal seeing such precision, talent, and musicianship in a 2 hour period. Visuals were so beyond their times, as it was supporting the Moving Pictures tour. Which critically is considered among their best.
I saw that same tour. Riggs and Rush in Jackson, MS around the same time. They did La Villa Strangiato for their finale. Had seen the Rolling Stones in the Superdome a couple of months prior. And yes, that Rush concert was one of the best ever.
-
I saw that same tour. Riggs and Rush in Jackson, MS around the same time. They did La Villa Strangiato for their finale. Had seen the Rolling Stones in the Superdome a couple of months prior. And yes, that Rush concert was one of the best ever.
From what I am seeing in the Concert database, your concert was 3 days before mine......
-
May 1982 List
1. Styx (No change)
2. Journey (No change)
3. Neil Young (+1)
4. Foreigner (-1)
5. Rush (No change)
6. Bob Seger (No change)
7. Dire Straits (No change)
8. Christopher Cross (+3)
9. Led Zeppelin (-1)
10. Boston (No change)
11. Asia (New)
12. Jefferson Starship (-3)
13. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
14. AC DC (-1)
15. Police (+3)
16. Pat Benetar (-2)
17. Kansas (-1)
18 Joan Jett (-3)
19. REO Speedwagon (-2)
20. Cars (-1)
Asia- . Heat of the Moment is an epic song by this Prog Supergroup formed from the ashes of Yes, ELP. and King Crimson. In theory, you would think this was the ultimate prog group. And I do grant, that a few of their songs are pretty damned good. But as a Band, they exploded at the onset, and then fizzled almost as fast afterwards This seemed like more forced corporate record company formula and product, than sweat equity and heart.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nvdYll1euGU (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nvdYll1euGU)
Concert- May 31, 1982, UFO, Grand Funk Railroad, and Jim Dandy- Price on stub- $8.50
After being spoiled a month earlier, this next endeavor was not good at all. On the surface, you would have thought this would be a great concert..... but as far as I was concerned, the band that headlined, should have been the opener.
For starts, UFO came out for good short set.... played their known hits.... Over.
Secondly, the main reason I wanted to come to this thing is to see Grand Funk, who as far as I was concerned were legends of early U.S Hard Rock. Set was freakin' 3 songs!!!!!!!! I was glad one was I'm Your Captain, but geez...
Then Jim Dandy and Ruby (minus Black Oak) comes out and growls through an hour and a half of distortion, and crotch rubbing. Ugh... Left before encore, to give you an idea of what I thought of this debacle
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A_t59To7Snk (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A_t59To7Snk)
-
June 1982 List
1. Styx (No change)
2. Journey (No change)
3. Neil Young (No change)
4. Foreigner (No change)
5. Bob Seger (+1)
6. Rush (-1)
7. Christopher Cross (+1)
8. Dire Straits (-1)
9. Led Zeppelin (No change)
10. Boston (No change)
11. Jefferson Starship (-1)
12. Asia (-1)
13. Kansas (+4)
14. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
15. Pat Benetar (-1)
16. AC DC (-2)
17. Police (-2)
18. Sammy Hagar (New)
19. Cars (+1)
20. REO Speedwagon (-1)
Sammy Hagar-. The Red Rocker's career is basically sliced into thirds. 1st he was the grit behind Montrose, and really help make that band into a '70's staple. Secondly, he had successful solo career, for which I feel embodies his best work. And last he and what he is most known for is the singer of Van Halen. Also part of the most argued points of debae in rock history. Roth or Hagar!!!!!. I was always disappointed EVH didn't utilize Sammy's awesome Ax skills into some of Van Halen's act. Can you imagine how some tradional mid '70's like guitar dueling would have sounded? Prob the best since Clapton/Allman. My theory was EVH's ego often got into the way of the band's direction. But this is about Hagar, and his contributions can't be overlooked.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8KMLLZF2qI0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8KMLLZF2qI0)
Concert- Texas World Music Festival '82- June 13, 1982--- Point Blank, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, Sammy Hagar, Santana, Journey- Price on stub- $18.50-
This was my first and last foray into all day music venues. I think you all know how much I enjoy music, and concerts, but watching for 12 hours wasn't as easy as I thought it would be. First the negative, and most of all.... The Astrodome really sucks as a music venue. Echos, distortion, and virbrating rafters are not conducive to a good concert experience. Then add the fact I had a girl friend who could consume a lot of beer in 12 hours. Had to deal with that distraction too. But yeah, it was worth it, seeing this caliber and volume of great acts.
Every act was really good. and I guessing there was probably 50,000 people there.
And to cap it all off, I asked the girlfriend to put our parking lot number location in her purse, and somehow that got lost during the day. We didn't get on I-610 until 2:30 in the morning. Man, I should have went by myself. :cool:
-
July 1982 List
1. Styx (No change)
2. Journey (No change)
3. Neil Young (No change)
4. Foreigner ((No change)
5. Police (+12)
6. Bob Seger (-1)
7. Rush (-1)
8. Christopher Cross (-1)
9. Dire Straits (-1)
10. Asia (+2)
11. Led Zeppelin (-2)
12. Boston (-2)
13. Jefferson Starship (-2)
14. Kansas (-1)
15. Heart (New)
16. Pat Benetar (-1)
17. AC DC (-1)
18. Fleetwood Mac (-4)
19. Cars (No change)
20. REO Speedwagon
How about some morning jolt with your coffee. In the beginning at a rock concert long long ago, Ann used to get more camera time than Nancy for good reason. Gorgeous Rocker!!!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PeMvMNpvB5M (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PeMvMNpvB5M)
-
August 1982 List
1. Styx (No change)
2. Journey (No change)
3. Neil Young (No change)
4. Foreigner (No change)
5. Police (No change)
6. Rush (+1)
7. Bob Seger (-1)
8. Christopher Cross (No change)
9. Asia (+1)
10. Dire Straits (-1)
11. Led Zeppelin (+1)
12. Jefferson Starship (+1)
13. Boston (-1)
14. AC DC (+3)
15. Sammy Hagar (New)
16. April Wine (New)
17. Kansas (-3)
18. Pat Benetar (-2)
19. Heart (-4)
20. Cars (-1)
April Wine- Easy a top 10 of all time Canadian Band, who got a lot of success in Canada in the mid '70's. but didn't catch on over here until the early '80's. They like so many other bands fell off the cliff in the U.S., after hitting the top. But those loyal Canadians kept on, keeping on, and these guys far as Canada were still making hits even into the early '90's. My biggest gripe? Like some others, I really cringe when I see bands that have as many compliation albums (15) as they do studio albums (16). What I call the Creedence Syndrome. Milk it bubba.
Here is the one, most of you most probably remember.....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YlcY_enzwmI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YlcY_enzwmI)
-
1982 - Aerosmith - Rock in a Hard Place album
Lightning Strikes
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C-TSvxZ40RQ)
-
1982 - Rainbow
Stone Cold
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hByGwgm_vRs)
Tearing Out My Heart (Live, '82)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jV3C0AO4CAI)
-
1982 - Whitesnake
Here I Go Again (Live, '83)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vLpYFOCPzQ8)
-
1982 - Van Halen - Diver Down album. A couple of good covers
Intruder / Pretty Woman
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_SlBNcjdw80)
Dancing In the Street
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EBMf90wBjo8)
-
1982 - The Clash - Combat Rock
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/0/07/The_Clash_-_Combat_Rock.jpg)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bJ9r8LMU9bQ (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bJ9r8LMU9bQ)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xMaE6toi4mk (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xMaE6toi4mk)
-
1982 - Billy Squier - Everybody Wants You
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/0/07/Everybody_Wants_You_cover.jpg)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L-oNajGRoOQ (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L-oNajGRoOQ)
-
1982 - Aldo Nova - Fantasy
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vPQgfaB3S1c (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vPQgfaB3S1c)
-
1982 - Rush - Signals
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/6/63/Rush_Signals.jpg)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EYYdQB0mkEU (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EYYdQB0mkEU)
-
1982 - Survivor - Eye of the Tiger
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=btPJPFnesV4 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=btPJPFnesV4)
-
1982 - Golden Earring - Twilight Zone
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m7XDoxtBGK0 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m7XDoxtBGK0)
-
1982 - Judas Priest - Screaming for Vengeance
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/4/45/Judas_Priest_SforV.jpg)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WtuoFv4dcwM (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WtuoFv4dcwM)
-
1982 - Iron Maiden - Number of the Beast
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/3/32/IronMaiden_NumberOfBeast.jpg)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WxnN05vOuSM (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WxnN05vOuSM)
-
1982 - Scorpions - Blackout
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/5/57/Blackout_%28Scorpions_album_-_cover_art%29.png)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6VwbyBGbqPY (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6VwbyBGbqPY)
-
1982 - Triumph - Just a Game
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/b/be/Triumph_Just_a_Game.jpg/220px-Triumph_Just_a_Game.jpg)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gCWj8Nz5DUg (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gCWj8Nz5DUg)
-
1982 - Triumph - Just a Game
Triumph - Another great Canadian band.
1981 - Fight the Good Fight (Live)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-lGhKrypb0)
1981 - Magic Power (Live)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w9X5Vbt4FYo)
-
Nova was a fantasticly speedy ax, who in the day was quite heralded. Sadly he has faded over time, and now is almost forgotten.
For years, I had thought Buck Dharma was doing the shredding in one my favorie BOC Songs "Take Me Away". Come to find out Aldo Nova was the master of this solo. Pan to about 2:50 of this video for an idea. Got to hand to them, this video is seriously creepy.
Dharma, Bloom, and Nova all playing at once. That's pretty big.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y1NYhbiiiFw (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y1NYhbiiiFw)
-
September 1982 List
1. Styx (No change)
2. Journey (No change)
3. Neil Young (No change)
4. Police (+1)
5. Foreigner (-1)
6. Rush (No change)
7. Kansas (+10)
8. Bob Seger (-1)
9. Christopher Cross (-1)
10. Asia (-1)
11. Led Zeppelin (No change)
12. Dire Straits (-2)
13. Boston (No change)
14. Jefferson Starship (-2)
15. AC DC (-1)
16. Pat Benetar (+3)
17. April Wine (-1)
18. Sammy Hagar (-3)
19. Cars (+1)
20. Heart (-1)
Concert- September 20, 1982- Toronto and Nazareth Cost on stub $10.00- Enjoyable show that from what I remember was relatively lightly attended. Nazareth was pretty much in decline. 7 years removed from Hair of the Dog.
Toronto- Hate to keep infusing sex into a classic rock discussion, but my most striking memory of them was that the two front ladies were in skin tight black leather outfits that were getting pretty sweaty. This in a venue on a late summer like evening in Texas. I'll just leave it at that. I do remember they did play their one hit. And it was pretty good.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vr4YjXQNYgI&list=RDvr4YjXQNYgI&start_radio=1 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vr4YjXQNYgI&list=RDvr4YjXQNYgI&start_radio=1)
Nazareth- . I remember mostly they played the catalog of well known stuff, which was great. Looked it up, and I noticed the album that this tour was supporting never even made it into the top 100. Probably why they shied away from new stuff.
Know it's been added once, but here is another live version of their signature song......
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ef2SLZdhNrY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ef2SLZdhNrY)
-
October 1982 List
1. Styx- No change
2. Journey- No change
3. Neil Young (No change)
4. Kansas (+3)
5. Police (-1)
6. Foreigner (-1)
7. Rush (-1)
8. Fleetwood Mac (New)
9. Bob Seger (-1)
10. Asia (No change)
11. Christopher Cross (-2)
12. Led Zeppelin (-1)
13. Boston (No change)
14. Dire Straits (-2)
15. Jefferson Starship (-1)
16. AC DC (-1)
17. Pat Benetar (-1)
18. April Wine (-1)
19. Cars (No change)
20. Sammy Hagar (-2)
Levels of musicianship seldom reached....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X61swsuCNuw (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X61swsuCNuw)
-
November 1982 List
1. Styx (No change)
2. Jurney (No change)
3. Neil Young (No change)
4. Foreigner (+2)
5. Police (No change)
6. Kansas (-2)
7. Fleetwood Mac (+1)
8. Rush (-1)
9. Bob Seger (No change)
10. Asia (No change)
11. Led Zeppelin (+1)
12. Boston (+1)
13. Christopher Cross (-2)
14. Dire Straits (No change)
15. Cars (+4)
16. Jefferson Starship (-1)
17. AC DC (-1)
18. Pat Benetar (-1)
19. April Wine (-1)
20. Sammy Hagar (No change)
This one's dedicated to all the other musicians out there who understand and appreciate the level of complexity and difficulty in both the songwriting and performance of this great tune. I uusally lose count at 12 key changes, and 15 time changes. The way the guys weave in and out with Alex' screeching lead, with the bass line, and insane variable syncopative percussion? A masterpiece. It seems this number would be super difficult to pull off live, but they did it during the '83 and '84 touring. (see below) Just wish there was an acutal live video of it being done.
Kid Gloves strangely gets overlooked in the catalog. To me, it's easy in their 10-15 best.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mbWGL_1mDQI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mbWGL_1mDQI)
-
December 1982 List
1. Styx (No change)
2. Neil Young (+1)
3. Journey (-1)
4. Foreigner (No change)
5. Kansas (+1)
6. Police (-1)
7. Led Zeppelin (+4)
8. Rush (No change)
9. Fleetwood Mac (-2)
10. Bob Seger (-1)
11. Asia (-1)
12. Boston (No change)
13. Pat Benetar (+5)
14. Cars (+1)
15. Christopher Cross (-2)
16. Dire Straits (-2)
17. Jefferson Starship (-1)
18. Men at Work (New)
19. Sammy Hagar (+1)
20. AC DC (-3)
Men at Work- . Aussie band with short term success with the one album that had a couple of big catchy hits that were pushed by MTV heavy rotation. How else would we know what a Vegimite Sandwich was? 2nd and 3rd albums sucked, and these guys faded into oblivion.
If you are over 50, and don't remember this... Check the rock you were hiding under for over insulation.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XfR9iY5y94s (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XfR9iY5y94s)
Concert- Billy Squier and The Who- December 3, 1982. Cost on stub- $18.50
Billy Squier- Remember it being maybe a half an hour set, but got to hear "The Stroke". Big and cool enough to make the soundtrack of Fast Times at Ridgemont High. Great opening.
The Who- There aren't many legends out there bigger than The Who. Even today, The Who along with Rush and few other bands, are my most listened to acts. From near beginning of the British Invasion, to Woodstock, to 1st Two Rock Operas, and beyond...... To give you an idea, I think I have somewhere between 30-40 of their tunes on my Ipod. Seeing true music legends was a great treat. As I mentioned before the Astrodome was not the best of venues due to distortion, but I didn't care..... This was The f--king Who.
For sample? How about the entire concert? Sound on YT video is poor, but this is what I heard......
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x2_uefiKemE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x2_uefiKemE)
My Generation
Substitute
Dangerous
Sister Disco
The Quiet One
It's Hard
Eminence Front
Behind Blue Eyes
Baba O'Riley
I Can't Explain
Naked Eye
Drowned
Cry If You Want
Who Are You
Pinball Wizard
See Me, Feel Me
5:15
Love, Reign O'er Me
Long Live Rock
Won't Get Fooled Again
Love Ain't for Keepin'
Squeeze Box
Twist and Shout
-
January 1983 List
1. Styx (No change)
2. Neil Young (No change)
3. Journey (No change)
4. Kansas (+1)
5. Foreigner (-1)
6. Loverboy (New)
7. Police (-1)
8. Led Zeppelin (-1)
9. Rush (-1)
10. Pat Benetar (+3)
11. Fleetwood Mac (-2)
12. Bob Seger (-2)
13. Asia (-2)
14. Boston (-2)
15. Jefferson Starship (+2)
16. Christopher Cross (-1)
17. Dire Straits (-1)
18. Cars (-4)
19. Men at Work (-1)
20. Go Go's (New)
Loverboy- . Another good band from Canada, and it seems like the early '80's were the Canuck hay day. April Wine, among others. Hard rock with great hooks and best played loud. According to wiki, they charted 12 singles in the U.S. in the Top 40 in 6 years and 4 albums. Not too shabby if you ask me.
Lots to choose from, I'll pick this one
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uquv6qTPOBw (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uquv6qTPOBw)
The Go Go's-. A lot of people thought the Go Go's were a gimmick band. No all girl band had really been taken seriously since the Runaways. But honestly, they weren't that bad. Carlisle had a great voice, and she ended up with the most success with a solo career.
I know the songwriting was a tad weak, but they put together a few good songs that got a whole lot of air play. They had a new wave tint, at the time the style was starting to wane. They only made 3 albums, so I was really pissed that they were inducted in the HOF in '21, when so many older greater more epic and prolific bands have been overlooked. It was definitley a bull shit "woke" induction.
For a sample, I'll go with the biggest hit on their second album........ Wanna a clue of how near amateur some of their members were? When a rock drummer has to count candence on fills, you get the picture.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2RHTiXvELNg (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2RHTiXvELNg)
-
This one's dedicated to all the other musicians out there who understand and appreciate the level of complexity and difficulty in both the songwriting and performance of this great tune. I uusally lose count at 12 key changes, and 15 time changes. The way the guys weave in and out with Alex' screeching lead, with the bass line, and insane variable syncopative percussion? A masterpiece. It seems this number would be super difficult to pull off live, but they did it during the '83 and '84 touring. (see below) Just wish there was an acutal live video of it being done.
Kid Gloves strangely gets overlooked in the catalog. To me, it's easy in their 10-15 best.
Cool beans. Can't believe I hadn't heard that one before.
-
1982 - Steve Miller Band
Abracadabra (Live, '82)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J3uqwdhCIHo)
-
Cool beans. Can't believe I hadn't heard that one before.
Kind of shaded from view/listen considering Red Sector A, Analog Kid, and Distant Early Warning are on the same album. We'll have to do a Rush Sleeper Post at some point. So much of their catalog would be hits for other bands, but get missed with Rush.
-
1982 - The Clash
Should I Stay or Should I Go
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xMaE6toi4mk)
-
No love for Little Feat? Am I the only fan here? Lowell George is da shizzle.
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lZjDqdCmjqo)
@Hoodat
Willin' is my jam.
Linda Ronstadt did a great version too.
-
1982 - Lou Reed
Waves of Fear (Live, '84)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SkIC5YYtgP4)
-
@Hoodat
Willin' is my jam.
Linda Ronstadt did a great version too.
@Free Vulcan
The immortal Lowell George
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNqv85coyTw)
-
1982 - Dire Straits
Industrial Disease
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g3X3rKtruSg)
-
February 1983 List
1. Styx (No change)
2. Neil Young (No change)
3. Journey (No change)
4. Kansas (No change)
5. Foreigner (No change)
6. Pat Benetar (+5)
7. Led Zeppelin (+1)
8. Loverboy (-2)
9. Police (-2)
10. Rush (-1)
11. Bob Seger (+1)
12. Toto (New)
13. Asia (No change)
14. Boston (No change)
15. Fleetwood Mac (-4)
16. Little River Band (New)
17. Jefferson Starship (-2)
18. Men at Work (+1)
19. Christopher Cross (-3)
20. Dire Straits (-3)
Little River Band- Aussie pop rock band, for when you are in the mood. Pretty bland in retrospect, but still some solid Top 40 fodder.... again, if you are in the mood. If I have to add a sample....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=szlqFlG4DL8&list=PLXUxMP5z_ELnfWisdGM0dBlnnaIPG7n-_&index=2 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=szlqFlG4DL8&list=PLXUxMP5z_ELnfWisdGM0dBlnnaIPG7n-_&index=2)
-
1983 - REM debuts
Talk About the Passion
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zCMy6kq5ZA0)
Radio Free Europe
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ac0oaXhz1u8)
-
March 1983 List
1. Styx (No change)
2. Neil Young (No change)
3. Christopher Cross (+16-WTF?)
4. Kansas (No change)
5. Journey (-2)
6. Foreigner (-1)
7. Pat Benetar (-1)
8. Bob Seger (+3)
9. Led Zeppelin (-2)
10. Loverboy (-2)
11. Police (-2)
12. Rush (-2)
13. Toto (-1)
14. Asia (-1)
15. Boston (-1)
16. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
17. Jefferson Starship (No change)
18. Men at Work (No change)
19. Little River Band (-3)
20. Dire Straits (No change)
The 16 level jump for Christopher Cross is unexplainable. Listening to the likes of fluff like Cross and Little River Band must have been a counter to the coninual depressing stuff I was listening to with Neil Young.
-
If you had been doing more drugs, you never would have put Christopher Cross on this list.
-
1980 - U2
I Will Follow (Live, '83)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jv51LO7NOTo)
-
1983 - U2
New Year's Day (Live, '83)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sDr9B5sQi0g)
Sunday Bloody Sunday (Live, '83)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EM4vblG6BVQ)
-
April 1983 List-
1. Neil Young (+1)
2. Styx (-1)
3. Kansas (+1)
4. Christopher Cross (-1)
5. Journey (No change)
6. Pat Benetar (+1)
7. Foreigner (-1)
8. Bob Seger (No change)
9. Rush (+3)
10. Duran Duran (New)
11. Led Zeppelin (-2)
12. Loverboy (-2)
13. Tom Petty (New)
14. Police (-3)
15. Toto (-2)
16. Boston (-1)
17. Asia (-3)
18. Fleetwood Mac (-2)
19. Jerfferson Starship (-2)
20. Dire Straits (No change)
Duran Duran- Maybe New Wave's last ghasp. Or maybe the first of the UK Wuss bands. Take your pick. This band is Hooks-a-million", and had great songs at the clubs, and a nice respite when about every other song you heard was by Michael Jackson. When I think of Duran Duran, this tune always first comes to mind... There are others that decent, if you are so inclined to check
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oJL-lCzEXgI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oJL-lCzEXgI)
Concert- April 11, 1983- The Ramones, Price on stub $7.50
This was by far the most interesting concert experience of my life by far. I want to cover this in another post.
-
My Ramones Concert Experience- April 11, 1983 at Cardi's.....
Like I mentioned someway, somehow The Ramones were going to perform at my favorite bar in the city I lived in. The day of the show, I collected a group of 3 of my good friends to go. One jokingly called me their Tour Guide into the world of rock and roll. :silly: Of course 40 years later, I realize now that that was a back handed insult in jest.
Well, when we got there, it was almost empty, and by the time the it was show time, my group and myself of 4 were among about 40-50 in the bar, and maybe 60 including bar staff. Rut-roh, I thought. I bet they no-show on this turnout. I thought this was going to be a night of disaster.
But... at about the 30 minutes late point, the band and their about 4 roadies show up. I couldn't believe it. I was going to see the Ramones in the most pristine state that could ever be expected. I can still picture the set up.... Pretty small stage, probably no bigger than 800-1000 square feet, looking out over the dance floor. Maybe half the crowd, including myself stood along the wood railing of the dance floor against the stage. The others? Scattered at the bar, and tables.
You know the Ramones, and they were punk pioneers.... 3 chords, loud, and simple. The first set flew by, and then Joey having some fun, challenged the crowd to try to stump them with something from their catalog. The Prize?? If anyone stumps us, you get to buy us a drink at the break. I took that as a personal challenge. I reached deep down in the recesses of my memories, on what might be an obscure enough number that they might have forgotten. After 3 guesses, and losing..... I finally stumped them. I can still picture Joey looking at the other members, and seeing him shake his head. Okay.... You got us. I stll got to hand it to the band. There may have only been a couple of dozen people in the crowd, but they gave the same amount of energy that they would have given to a 15,000 attended venue. I can not explain how many levels above cool this was.
I did buy the band a drink at the break, and one member laughed at said, man... we were kidding, we were going to get 'em free anyway. I did get to shake their hands, and Joey in his best sarcasm said something to the effect .... We never dreamed we would get stumped in this Red Neck Hell Hole. Typical New Yorker I guess. And best of all, Marky gave me a set of his sticks. (Which has an epilogue story of its own). Man if there ever was a need for a sharpie, or even a freakin' camera, that was the moment in my life.
The second set, which was also about an hour, continued the assault... They played stuff that I had never heard on albums, as much as their great songs, and some filler.... In the second set, there was a guy sitting at the bar, who kept yelling "Free Bird". "Free Bird". between songs. The band not amused, and had this in one of their verses of "Beat on the Brat":
Beat on the cat
Beat on the cat
Beat on the cat with a blue baseball cap.....Ohhhh Yeah.....Ohhhh Yeah.
This concert was so memorable, so cool. Nothing like this in music remotely ever happened again.
And to the drum sticks. I suspect my Mother in Law in one of her helping us clean up episodes, disposed of them. Man did that suck....
-
May 1983 List
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. Styx (No change)
3 Christopher Cross (+1)
4. Journey (+1)
5. Kansas (-2)
6. Foreigner (No Change)
7. Bob Seger (+1)
8. Pat Benetar (+1)
9. Rush (No change)
10. Duran Duran
11. Loverboy (+1)
12. Dire straits (+8)
13.Led Zeppelin (-2)
14. Tom Petty (-1)
15. Police (-1)
16. Boston (No change)
17. Toto (-2)
18. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
19. Asia (-2)
20. Jefferson Starship (-1)
Many of us have a lot of Scottish ancestry. So bonus points for this tune on my behalf. How many bands have used bag pipes to make a hit song.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-sUXMzkh-jI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-sUXMzkh-jI)
-
1983 - Thin Lizzy
Cold Sweat
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hHG9wXCpdTI)
-
June 1983 List
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. Styx (No change)
3. Journey (+1)
4. Dire Straits (+8)
5. Christopher Cross (-2)
6. Kansas (-1)
7. Bob Seger (No change)
8. Foreigner (-2)
9. Rush (No change)]
10. Pat Benetar (-2)
11. Loverboy (No change)
12. Duran Duran (-2)
13. Romantics (New)
14. Led Zeppelin (-1)
15. Tom Petty (-1)
16. Police (-1)
17. Boston (-1)
18. Toto (-1)
19. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
20. Jefferson Starship (No change)
Ran across this the other day. The age old argument teens have with their parent about what to do with their life. It's generational thing that has gone on forever. Lucky, some how, some way their was a Canadian Documentary that captured that with Rush's Alex Lifeson and his parents.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M977GFRWDmY (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M977GFRWDmY)
-
July 1983 List
1. Neil Young - (No Change)
2. Styx- (No change)
3. Journey (No change)
4. Dire Straits (No change)
5. Kansas (+1)
6. Bob Seger (+1)
7.Christopher Cross (-2)
8. Foreigner (No change)
9. Loverboy (+2)
10. Rush (+1)
11. Pat Benetar (-1)
12. Def Leppard (New)
13. Romantics (No change)
14. Duran Duran (-2)
15. Police (+1)
16. Led Zeppelin (-2)
17. Tom Petty (-2)
18. Boston (-1)
19. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
20.Toto (-2)
Def Leopard- . Fantastic group, straight forward hard rock, with a tinge of pop-Sweet, T-Rexish touch. This was kind of strange in my thoughts, in that there were finally rock. stars who were younger than I was. I recommend the 2nd though 5th album for a sample of when the band was in it's prime. Yeah, they got quite a boost off the video age, but this was a really good band. I like this one for it's nostalgic bend on the late '60's early 70's UK Glam Rock era, and it's good too.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bpcc43NV394 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bpcc43NV394)
Concert: All Star Blues Reunion featuring Johnny and Edgar Winter- July 9, 1983 Cost on Stub- $10.00. Got to admit, that I do love bluesy rock and roll, but what most call traditional blues? Like it, but not really that familiar with it. I have a feeling that I must have been watching some legends, but I didn't write their names down. I am guessing they were old legends, by how the Winter Brothers were treating them with reverence. Sure wish I had listended better.
Concert: Neil Young- July 16, 1983- Price on Stub - $12.75. I think I had mentioned earlier that this was the worst concert I had ever attended. Young spent the entire concert playing songs off his lame Rockabilly attempt..... Everybody's Rocking. This thng was so bad, the crowd starting booing. Including me.
(https://artwork-cdn.7static.com/static/img/sleeveart/00/000/470/0000047015_350.jpg)
-
1983 - ZZ Top
Sharp Dressed Man (Live)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mB3SOEsk3zw)
Give Me All Your Lovin'
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k4VFFBCa5Aw)
-
August 1983 List
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. Styx (No change0
3. Journey (No change)
4. Dire Straits (No change)
5. Bob Seger (+1)
6. Kansas (-1)
7. Christopher Cross (No change)
8. Foreigner (No change)
9. Loverboy (No change)
10. Jackson Browne (New)
11. Pat Benetar (No change)
12. Rush (-2)
13. Police (+2)
14. Duran Duran (No change)
15. Def Leppard (-3)
16. Romatics (-3)
17. Led Zeppelin (-1)
18. Boston (No change)
19. Tom Petty (-2)
20. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
Jackson Browne- Jackson Browne was probably the ultimate song writing genius in the singer-songwriter genre. I remember an Eagles documentary when Frey-Henley marveled at Browne's ability to sit down to a piano and almost at will create excellent music/lyrics, almost at will. I think his first hit song was written at age 16. He wrote many songs for his bretheren in the S-S genre including the Eagles, Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Rondstatd, among others. Browne had a very strange but interesting projection of a career. He decently charter with several hits from his debut to Running on Empty. Running on Empty propelled him to headliner status. He rode the success until the mid '80's, till it appeared he hit writers block, or for what I think really happened.... the lure and glamor of Hollywood, and environmental activism ruined him. He released 7 albums after the mid '80's, based on reputation alone I guess. And they all pretty much suck.
For a sample, I am going to include one, that is not even on one of his studio albums. This is a great song that has a pop overtone, but it is great, and the one best songs, on what I feel is one of the best Movie soundtracks..... Fast Times at Ridgemont High (Please excuse the Commie hammer and sickle the stupid YT account holder slapped on this video... I don't WTF is up with that, but the video does captures the song and mood of the movie pretty nicely)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3DHTywWFcsc (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3DHTywWFcsc)
Concert: Jackson Browne August 20, 1983, Cost of ticket on stub. $13.75- Great show. Played the hits, and pretty much everything he was supporting on his new album Lawyers in Love. He and his group were not ever great muscians, live or on record, but maybe with the exception of Dylan or Young, had the songwriting chops to plod ahead with massive success. Best of all, this was before his shitty preachy liberal activist schtick, and that was a big plus.
-
September 1983 List-
1. Neil Young- (No change)
2. Jackson Browne (+8)
3. Styx (-1)
4. Journey (-1)
5. Dire Straits (-1)
6. Loverboy (+3)
7. Bog Seger (-2)
8. Kansas ((-2)
9. Foreigner (-1)
10. Christopher Cross (-3)
11. Pat Benetar (No change)
12. Police (+1)
13. Rush (-1)
14. Led Zeppelin (+3)
15. Fleetwood Mac (+5)
16. Tom Petty (+3)
17. Duran Duran (-3)
18. Boston (No change)
19. Romantics (-3)
20. Def Leppard (-5)
I know I stopped documenting exact acquistions of music a few years earlier, but for some reason I did write this down in the log...
For the Record-
Cassettes- 71
8 Track - 149
LP's- 303
Since we chronologically are still on a quick upward vector of Jackson Browne, I'm going to share what I feel what were among his best....
I know that there will be many out there who prefer his early "Dr. My Eye" era of his career... Just my preference.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9KNuZrEVB70 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9KNuZrEVB70)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ddvJGDwOGj0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ddvJGDwOGj0)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JZ4FCMvr7nc&list=RDJZ4FCMvr7nc&start_radio=1 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JZ4FCMvr7nc&list=RDJZ4FCMvr7nc&start_radio=1)
-
October 1983 List-
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. Jackson Browne (No change)
3. Styx (No change)
4. Journey (No change)
5. Dire Straits (No charge)
6. Loverboy (No change)
7. Pat Benetar (+4)
8. Bob Seger- (+4)
9. Kansas (-1)
10. Rush (+3)
11. Foreigner (-2)
12. Police (No charge)
13. Christopher Cross (-3)
14. Led Zeppelin (No change)
15. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
16. ZZ Top (New)
17. Tom Petty (-1)
18. Boston (No change)
19. Toto (New)
20. Duran Duran (-3)
Haven't given much air time to the old stuff. Here is one that I loved as a kid. Several versions of it exist on YT, but I thought this was the most interesting and entertaining, with their comic banter with the Smothers Brothers. Song perfectly encapsulates the sound of the '60's.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s7hRPrxiZwc (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s7hRPrxiZwc)
-
November 1983 List-
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. Jackson Browne (No change)
3. Styx (No change)
4. Journey (No change)
5. Loverboy (+1)
6. Dire Straits (-1)
7. Pat Benetar (No change)
8. Bob Seger (No change)
9. Kansas (No change)
10. ZZ Top (+6)
11. Rush (-1)
12. Foreigner (-1)
13. Led Zeppelin (+1)
14. Police (-2)
15. Christopher Cross (-2)
16. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
17. Tom Petty (No change)
18. Toto (+1)
19. Boston (-1)
20. Romantics (New)
Concert: The Romantics November 1, 1983- Price on Stub- $4.00. Another concert at my favorite local bar. Oddly enough, there were probably 5X the amount of people at this one, as was at the Ramones visit, at this same venue a year earlier. Place was packed. Don't seem to remember them being that good live. I do know they played their 2 hits, and plenty of filler. Nothing special.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rqnw5IfbZOU (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rqnw5IfbZOU)
-
Since we chronologically are still on a quick upward vector of Jackson Browne, I'm going to share what I feel what were among his best....
I know that there will be many out there who prefer his early "Dr. My Eye" era of his career... Just my preference.
I saw Jackson Browne at Blossom near Cleveland back in the late 80s. The music was good, but he would not shut up about politics. Between every song, he had to give a short speech bashing something Reagan did. Apparently, Browne was a big fan of the Ortega brothers.
Anyway, love the Running On Empty era, but would never pay to see him perform again.
-
December 1983 List-
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. Styx (+1)
3. Jackson Browne (-1)
4. Journey (No change)
5. Loverboy (No change)
6. Dire Straits (No change)
7. Pat Benetar (No change)
8. ZZ Top (+2)
9. Bob Seger (-1)
10. Kansas (-1)
11. Led Zeppelin (+2)
12. Rush (-1)
13. Foreigner (-1)
14. Police (No change)
15. Bruce Springsteen (New)
16. Christopher Cross (-1)
17. Fleetwood Mac ((-1)
18. Boston (+1)
19. Tom Petty (-2)
20. Toto (-2)
Keeping with today's "oldie theme".... Here is one that I remember even earlier that I really liked, my parent's music of course. I mean in my terms... way way back..... And in the trivia department, This was the first time and song that a UK act had a U.S No. 1 hit. (1962) I for sure would have guessed The Beatles. Song sure sounded a head of its time, even as an instrumental.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WPDvsLSnUGc (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WPDvsLSnUGc)
-
I saw Jackson Browne at Blossom near Cleveland back in the late 80s. The music was good, but he would not shut up about politics. Between every song, he had to give a short speech bashing something Reagan did. Apparently, Browne was a big fan of the Ortega brothers.
Anyway, love the Running On Empty era, but would never pay to see him perform again.
I think Daryl Hannah rotted his mind. Because his musical career sure went to relative shit afterwards.
-
January 1984 List
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. Styx (No change)
3. Jackson Browne (No change)
4. Loverboy (+1)
5. Journey (-1)
6. Dire Straits (No change)
7. ZZ Top (+1)
8. Bob Seger (+1)
9. Kansas (+1)
10. Pat Benetar (-3)
11. Led Zeppelin (No change)
12. Rush (No change)
13. Bruce Springsteen (+2)
14. Foreigner (-1)
15. Police (-1)
16. Fleetwood Mac (+1)
17. Boston (+1)
18. Tom Petty (+1)
19. Christopher Cross (+1)
20. The Kings (New)
The Kings-. The Kings are pretty much a trivia question now, and known as a one hit wonder. I guess they milked it for the Casino circuit for a long time afterwards This video is kind of sad in the manner it documenterizes them playing it over and over for 30 years. Kings? Yeah maybe of Album Filler. Great catchy tune here though.....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sxkjvKBPQjo (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sxkjvKBPQjo)
Concert: Girlschool- January 31, 1984. No stub, admission was cover charge.
What a sad, but fun night. This concert was held again at my local watering hole. It was a farewell party for our local FM Rock station. Way before there was the term "Classic Rock Stations" there was just Rock stations. By the mid '80's these were dying a slow death. Even the what I felt was the invincible KLOL in Houston would die too, within 20 years, or so.
This was the station's last night, and they set up a remote at the bar, and played tunes after the concert. The concert itself was with the rocking Punkish/Metalish girl band Girlschool (below), who had a helluva of lot of talent, but could never crack the U.S. charts. From a rock and roll perspective, they sure rocked better and harder than the Go Go's. These girls got the place loud and rowdy. Can't remember ever seeing so many messed up Texans in my life. People were pissed we were losing our Rock Station.
Station was also interviewing the crowd while spinning tunes. When they stuck the mic in my face, I said "Disco Still Sucks". Sometimes you can't take the '70's out of the boy.
When the band stopped, the DJ played nothing but the greatest classics for the last 2 hours of the life of the station. With last song being...... Long Live Rock, by The Who. What a fun night.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BYNWo93fPG8 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BYNWo93fPG8)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7YJ7FWLE3pU (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7YJ7FWLE3pU)
-
I think Daryl Hannah rotted his mind. Because his musical career sure went to relative shit afterwards.
No matter how perfect she may seem, there's a guy somewhere else who got tired of putting up with her sh!t.
-
1983 - The Police, Synchronicity album
Should have won Album of the Year, but lost out to Michael Jackson's Thriller. There's a lot to be said for three-man bands like RUSH, the Police, Genesis, Grand Funk Railroad, ZZ Top, etc.
O My God (Live, '83)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Der747kVam0)
Miss Gradenko
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRDm2tNyX50)
Synchronicity II (Live, '83)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QZAPm1NKgKE)
Every Breath You Take
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OMOGaugKpzs)
Wrapped Around Your Finger
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gondjza0sUs)
Walking In Your Footsteps (Live, '83)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FTYl1yq334Y)
-
1983 - The Talking Heads, Speaking in Tongues album.
Girlfriend is Better (Live, '84)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KoI7A07jJ1E)
This Must Be the Place
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IoiX8ncN8-k)
-
1983 - Yes
Our Song
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IYLvYdH06nY)
-
February 1984 List-
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. Styx (No change)
3. Loverboy (+1)
4. Jackson Browne (-1)
5. Journey (No change)
6. Dire Straits- (No change)
7. Bob Seger (+1)
8. Kansas (+1)
9. ZZ Top (-1)
10. Fleetwood Mac (+6)
11. Police (+4)
12. Big Country (New)
13. Pat Benetar (-3)
14. Led Zeppelin (-3)
15. Rush (-3)
16. Bruce Springsteen (-3)
17.Foreigner (-3)
18. Tom Petty (No change)
19. Boston (-2)
20. English Beat (New)
Seems the themes of late are one hit wonders and nostalgia.
Big Country- Scottish band used native sounds and roots into their sound. The tune I have added below, has their guitar almost sounding like how bagpipes would be if added. The did well in the U.S with their first album, and then pretty much faded. In the UK OTOH I noticed that all 9 of the works charted in the their Top 100.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=19eti8Lf2Zo (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=19eti8Lf2Zo)
English Beat- Another short time '80's English wuss band, who had good success mostly in the UK. But you got to give them props having a tune good enough that Pete Townsend asks you, if you can do a cover. Overall take on this band... 3 and done.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0bM0wVjU2-k (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0bM0wVjU2-k)
Concert: Three Dog Night, February 5, 1984, price of ticket on stub- $7.50- Band nicely did their extensive catalog of hits for a few hours. In this fit of nostalgia, I noticed I was with a bunch of old people, and the venue had the energy of a nursing home. Found how it was at a Slim Whitman concert. Second thing I noticed, these weren't the same people I rememberd seeing on the albums 15 years earlier. But for $7.50 how could you go wrong.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DTCyjYjsVc8 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DTCyjYjsVc8)
Concert: Night Ranger and Black Sabbath February 10, 1984, price on ticket stub $11.00- Nostalgia for the month Part II was entirely differently. Night Ranger was never in my scope, so after hearing Sister Christian, I was pretty much done with interest there.
Wow.... Now came Black Sabbath. Yeah, they were Ozzyless but seeing Iommi, Ward, and Butler was a joy as they hit the stage. Then the bricks fell. Tony and company cranked the Marshall's up to "12", and I was subjected to the loudest 2 hours of my life. The sets lists were great, as all the early epic classic stuff was covered, along with their newer, but less interesting material. True story though, when we all left, we all could barely hear other, and had an overbearing ring in our hearing. And it took 2 days to get it back.
My favorite Sabbath tune?....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_xFc86tzFG4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_xFc86tzFG4)
-
1983 - Iron Maiden
The Trooper
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2G5rfPISIwo)
-
1983 - Moody Blues
Blue World (Extended)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Ge8fy2Xz8E)
-
1983 - Violent Femmes debut
Blister in the Sun (Live)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ra8VTlXVqUQ)
-
March 1984 List
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. Jackson Browne (+2)
3. Loverboy (No change)
4. Styx (-2)
5. Journey (No change)
6. Police (+5)
7. Dire Straits (-1)
8. Fleetwood Mac (+2)
9. Bob Seger (-2)
10. Kansas (-2)
11. ZZ Top (-2)
12. Pat Benetar (-1)
13. Big Country (-1)
14. 38 Special (New)
15. Tom Petty (+3)
16. Rush (-1)
17. Led Zeppelin (-3)
18. Foreigner (-1)
19. Boston (No change)
20. Bruce Springsteen (-4)
38 Special- Upper tier of southern boogie rock. Only proably bested by Skynrd, ZZ Top, and Allman Brothers. At their zenith in the early to mid '80's with even some solid singles charting. Most everyone probably remembers these the most...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zg21Rkew874 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zg21Rkew874)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vJtf7R_oVaw (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vJtf7R_oVaw)
-
April 1984 List-
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. Police (+4)
3. Jackson Browne (-1)
4. Loverboy (-1)
5. Styx (-1)
6. Fleetwood Mac (+2)
7. Journey (-2)
8. Dire Straits (-1)
9. Bob Seger (No change)
10. Cars (New)
11. Pat Benetar (+1)
12. Kansas (-2)
13. ZZ Top (-2)
14. 38 Sprecial (No change)
15. Led Zeppelin (+2)
16. Tom Petty (-1)
17. Rush (-1)
18. Foreigner (No change)
19. Boston (No change)
20. Big Country (-7)
Big movement for the Cars based on this album
(https://i.discogs.com/Glo-z8k7P3R1p5Au6mTH9EOFPSCnyJeeCFYkXfafbaU/rs:fit/g:sm/q:40/h:300/w:300/czM6Ly9kaXNjb2dz/LWltYWdlcy9SLTI3/MTc3NjMtMTM1OTE0/NTE3OC00MTQ1Lmpw/ZWc.jpeg)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E0Kv6vxZwL8 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E0Kv6vxZwL8)
-
May 1984 List
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. Police (No change)
3. Loverboy (+1)
4. Styx (+1)
5. Jackson Browne (-2)
6. Cars (+4)
7. Journey (No change)
8. Fleetwood Mac ((-2)
9. Dire Straits (-1)
10. Bob Seger (-1)
11. ZZ Top (+2)
12. Kansas (No change)
13. Pat Benetar (-2)
14. Foreigner (+4)
15. Led Zeppelin (No change)
16. Rush (+1)
17. Tom Petty (-1)
18. 38 Special (-4)
19. Boston (No change)
20. Sammy Hagar (New)
Concert: Huey Lewis and the News, May 5, 1984 Price on stub- $11.50- Huey Lewis was the everyman's kind of rock band. Raucous, fun, and great hooks. Seeing Huey Lewis at this time was at a perfect time when he was just bursting big on the music scene, and the concert was in support of his best album, Sports. Huey Lewis incredibly had 4 Top 10 singles from this one album. Incredible. Concert itself, was very good, and playing was pretty tight considering a lot more improv than I exepcted from a band like this.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N6uEMOeDZsA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N6uEMOeDZsA)
-
June 1984 List
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. Police (No change)
3. The Cars (+3)
4. Loverboy (-1)
5. Jackson Browne (No change)
6. Journey (+1)
7. Fleetwood Mac (+1)
8. Styx (-4)
9. Dire Straits (No change)
10. Bob Seger (No change)
11. ZZ Top (No change)
12. Huey Lewis (New)
13. Kansas (-1)
14. Foreigner (No change)
15. Led Zeppeln (No change)
16. Pat Benetar (-3)
17. Rush (-1)
18. Bryan Adams (New)
19. Tom Petty (-2)
20. 38 Special (-2)
Bryan Adams-Canadian Crooner/Rocker who started more with a rock edge, and then drifted gradually into the softer stuff. I didn't realize it, but he still recoreds regularly. Got to admit his early stuff was really good. Samples below show that in his early days he could rock with the best of them.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nCBASt507WA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nCBASt507WA)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6VZhSkREYBc (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6VZhSkREYBc)
-
July 1984 List
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. The Cars (+1)
3. The Police (-1)
4. Loverboy (No change)
5. Jackson Browne (No change)
6. Styx (+2)
7. Huey Lewis (+5)
8. Journey (-2)
9. Fleetwood Mac (-2)
10. Dire Straits (-1)
11. Bob Seger (-1)
12. Foreigner (+2)
13. ZZ Top (-2)
14. Kansas (-1)
15. Pat Benetar (+1)
16. Led Zeppelin (-1)
17. Greg Kihn (New)
18. Rush (-1)
19. Tom Petty (No change)
20. Bryan Adams (-2)
Greg Kihn Band-. Band that was more pop than rock that had basically two known hits in the early 1980's. And one of them, is probably better known for its Wierd Al parody which on VEVO has 6X the views as the original. After a brief time with fame... Another quick fader. With some of these tunes, I obviously was watching too.much MTV at the time.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yAJNwPWVmNc (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yAJNwPWVmNc)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8SD2bAPWgTw (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8SD2bAPWgTw)
-
August 1984 List
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. Cars (No change)
3. Police (No change)
4. Loverboy (No change)
5. Huey Lewis (+2)
6. Styx (No change)
7. Jackson Browne (-2)
8. Journey (No change)
9. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
10. Dire Straits (No change)
11. Rush (+7)
12. Foreigner (No change)
13. Bob Seger (-2)
14. ZZ Top (-1)
15. Kansas (-1)
16. Led Zeppelin (No change)
17. Pat Benetar (-2)
18. Bryan Adams (+2)
19. Tom Petty (No change)
20. Greg Kihn (-3)
Keeping with the recent oldie's theme.... Think about it. There was probably one musical act in the world that would be able to get a "color" music film with this level of production values at the time? The impact of Sargent Peppers / Magical Mystery Tour transition of the Beatles can not be understated. There is a reason they are the most influential rock band of all time. It all really started wth them. Step 1 and 2 at least.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TKuvJLTeJYY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TKuvJLTeJYY)
-
Septmeber 1984 List
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. The Cars (No change)
3. Huey Lewis (+2)
4. Police (-1)
5. Styx (+1)
6. Dire Straits (+4)
7. Loverboy (-2)
8. Jackson Browne (-3)
9. Journey (-1)
10. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
11. Rush (No change)
12. Bob Seger (+1)
13. Kansas (+2)
14. Foreigner (-2)
15. ZZ Top (-1)
16. Led Zeppelin (No change)
17. Boston (New)
18. Pat Benetar (-1)
19. Tom Petty (No change)
20. Bryan Adams (-2)
I understand this is a highly accurate account (and best part of the movie) of when Hendrix and his band, in 15 minutes put together a cover of Sgt. Peppers right after if was realeased.... And in front of McCartney no less. Wow, that took balls.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bMmhHBr7WDA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bMmhHBr7WDA)
-
October 1984 List
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. Huey Lewis (+1)
3. Cars (-1)
4. Poleice (No change)
5. Dire Straits (+1)
6. Styx (-1)
7. Loverboy (No change)
8. Journey (+1)
9. Jackson Browne (-1)
10. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
11. Bob Seger (+1)
12. Rush (-1)
13. Jefferson Starship (New)
14. Kansas (-1)
15. Foreigner (-1)
16. Led Zeppelin (No change)
17. ZZ Top (-2)
18. Boston (-1)
19. Tom Petty (No change)
20. Pat Benetar (-2)
LOL....Check Berry. The first rock star who could play an instrument. And no doubt, the first guy who incorporated the "guitar solo" embodied in his music. Yeah, this is 1955, but Chuck Berry was many years ahead of his time. His style was more Rockabilly more than all realize.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NIb-Q2xyHcc (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NIb-Q2xyHcc)
-
November 1984
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. Huey Lewis (No change)
3. Cars (No change)
4. Police (No change)
5. Dire Straits (No change)
6. Styx (No change)
7. Loverboy (No change)
8. Jackson Brown (+1)
9. Journey (-1)
10. Bob Seger (+1)
11. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
12. Jefferson Starship (+1)
13. Rush (-1)
14. Foreigner (+1)
15. Led Zeppelin (+1)
16. Kansas (-2)
17. Tom Petty (+2)
18. Boston (No change)
19. ZZ Top (-2)
20. Pat Benetar (No change)
As far as I know, 1st known U.S. tape of the Stones. I had to laugh, as it sounds like Brian Jones insinuates Jagger is gay.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P6RWnGQ3XqQ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P6RWnGQ3XqQ)
-
December 1984 List
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. Bryan Adams (New)
3. Huey Lewis (-1)
4. Cars (-1)
5. Police (-1)
6. Dire Straits (-1)
7. Jackson Browne (+1)
8. Styx (-2)
9. Bob Seger (+1)
10. Loverboy (-3)
11. Journey (-2)
12. Fletwood Mac (-1)
13. Jefferson Starship (-1)
14. Rush (-1)
15. Foreigner (-1)
16. Pat Benetar (+4)
17. Led Zeppelin (-2)
18. Kansas (-2)
19. Tom Petty (-2)
20. ZZ Top (-1)
As cheesy as this is was, it sure rocked for '66 and '67.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iYY71X8SU8M (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iYY71X8SU8M)
-
January 1985 List
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. Bryan Adams (No change)
3. Huey Lewis (No change)
4. The Cars (No change)
5. The Police (No change)
6. Jackson Browne (+1)
7. Dire Straits (-1)
8. Foreigner (+7)
9. Styx (-1)
10. Bob Seger (-1)
11. Journey (No change)
12. Fleetwodd Mac (No change)
13. Loverboy (-3)
14. Pat Benetar (+1)
15. Rush (-1)
16. Jefferson Starship (-3)
17. Led Zeppelin (No change)
18. Kansas (No change)
20. ZZ Top (No change)
If you took the factor of longevity out of the equation, there could be a pretty good argument that Creedence Clearwater Revival is the greatest American Rock Band in history. For all practical purposes their time in the sun was pretty short. 7 studio albums in less than 4 years. But those 4 years, they were absolutely dominant. 5 of the 7 LP's made the Album top 10. 19 charting singles. This was back before the day of Rock FM. But in the day the day of AM, it seems there was at least one or two CCR songs that were on the radio.
But with that lack of longevity, gave raise to to what you have heard me describe earlier as the "Creedence Factor". CCR has 7 studio albums, but also has had "41" Music compliations...... That poor damned cow has been milked dry. These aren't my favorite tunes by CCR, but this is an iconic and often watched performance of them at Woodstock.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wMO58JWVOBY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wMO58JWVOBY)
-
1983 - Stevie Ray Vaughan
Mary Had A Little Lamb
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WWU6hpPJG_c)
Pride and Joy
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kfjXp4KTTY8)
-
1984 - Van Halen
Hot For Teacher (Live, '84)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CaPlKTFnXz4)
I'll Wait
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qywC7U--mVs)
-
February 1985 List
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. Bryan Adams (No change)
3. Cars (+1)
4. Huey Lewis (-1)
5. Foreigner (+2)
6. Police (-1)
7. Jackson Browne (-1)
8. Styx (+1)
9. Dire Straits (-2)
10. Bob Seger (No change)
11. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
12. Rush (+3)
13. Journey (-2)
14. Jefferson Starship (+2)
15. Loverboy (-2)
16. Pat Benetar ((-2)
17. Led Zeppelin (No change)
18. Kansas (No change)
19. Tom Petty (No change)
20. ZZ Top (No change)
I have mentioned before that there were four bands (IMO) that were the gold standard as far as musicanship. Those being ELP, Yes, Rush, and this band..... This is my favorite live clip from their catalog. Powerful to say the least. Gilmore's solo starting at about the 4 1/2 minue mark is top notch, and eerily beautiful.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xEMy34qhQe4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xEMy34qhQe4)
-
March 1985 List
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. Bryan Adams (No change)
3. Foreigner (+2)
4. Cars (-1)
5. Huey Lewis ((-1)
6. Police (No change)
7. Styx (-1)
8. Bob Seger (+2)
9. Styx (-1)
10. Dire Straits (-1)
11. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
12. Rush (No change)
13. Journey No change)
14. Jefferson Starship (No change)
15. Led Zeppelin (+2)
16. Pat Benetar (No change)
17. Loverboy (-2)
18. tom Petty (+1)
19. Survivor (New)
20. ZZ Top (No Change)
Concert: John Parr and Toto, March 31, 1985, Price on stub- $!2.75
John Parr- Brief set, with only Naughty Naughty played at the end. St. Elmo's fire hadn't been released yet. And to that fact, these are probably the only two songs that much of anyone remembers. Parr was one of continued series of Canadians who seem to be part of an influx at the time. Both known hots are added below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dx7vNdAb5e4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dx7vNdAb5e4)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=syhrz_AMLQU (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=syhrz_AMLQU)
Toto- Very very good, studio type musicans who had put together a massive career of hits and just good music. This concert did not disappoint, and they played a good balance of previous hits, and most of the best cuts of their most recent album Isolation. Once Toto did get into the late '80't their creativity did pretty much lapse. But the 1st 5 are pretty good, and their 4th album was a massive ht with "Africa" and "Rosanna"
This is a sleeper on the album, but I remember how well they performed it live, and how well it highlights all aspects of their band and their talents.....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lwq0nc-EhM0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lwq0nc-EhM0)
And just for what the hell dept..... Very interesting cover of Toto's Africa by Wierd Al and Weezer... Weezer won't be around this list for another 7 years. Yeah, the guys act silly, but hearing Africa with an edge is pretty cool.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mk5Dwg5zm2U (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mk5Dwg5zm2U)
-
Favorite Toto song.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YqLjbeXkc_0
-
Favorite Toto song.
Another great sleeper.
Here is one from the same album, that i enjoyed'
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nzaeKM9-2Qg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nzaeKM9-2Qg)
-
April 1985 List
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. Bryan Adams (No change)
3. Foreigner (No change)
4. Cars (No change)
5. Police (+1)
6. Huey Lewis (-1)
7. Jackson Browne (No change)
8. Bob Seger (No change)
9. Styx (No change)
10. Dire Straits (No change)
11. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
12. Survivor (+7)
13. Journey (No change)
14. Rush (-2)
15. Loverboy (+2)
16. Toto (New)
17. Led Zeppelin (-2)
18. Pat Benetar (-2)
19. Tom Petty (-1)
20. Jefferson Starship (-6)
More rock history. I have always thought Morrison was one of the most enigmatic and troubled figure in rock history. Never was a huge fan, but no doubt his influence well felt weill after his death in '70.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lv-CxAr0HeA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lv-CxAr0HeA)
-
Another great sleeper.
Here is one from the same album, that i enjoyed'
The entire album is a gem.
-
1984 - Metallica - Ride the Lightning album
Fade to Black
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HdWw9SksiwQ)
-
1984 - Ratt
Round and Round
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UzGhTCAPD_4)
-
1984 - Deep Purple
Perfect Strangers
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eWN80LuCXFo)
Not Responsible
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J7c078OUpSo)
-
1984 - Sammy Hagar
I Can't Drive 55
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Qf98egLWOk)
-
1984 - U2
Pride (Live)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=49ND7S3F9Ps)
-
Billy Idol
Rebel Yell (Live, '84)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KDJxQ4K6l4o)
-
May 1985 List
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. Bryan Adams (No change)
3. Foreigner (No change)
4. The Cars (No change)
5. Bob Seger (+3)
6. Styx (+3)
7. Police (-2)
8. Huey Lewis (-2)
9. Dire Straits (+1)
10. Jackson Browne (-3)
11. Survivor (+1)
12. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
13. Journey (No change)
14. Toto (+2)
15. Rush (-1)
16. Loverboy (-1)
17. Tom Petty (+2)
18. Led Zeppelin (-1)
19. Pat Benetar (-1)
20. Jefferson Starship (No change)
From about 50 years ago...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LDknRxdHNog (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LDknRxdHNog)
-
June 1985
1. Neily Young (No change)
2. Bryan Adams (No change)
3. Foreigner (No change)
4. Bob Seger (+1)
5. Cars (-1)
6. Survivor (+5)
7. Styx (-1)
8. Dire Straits (+1)
9. Police (-2)
10. Huey Lewis (-2)
11. Jackson Browne (-1)
12. Journey (+1)
13. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
14. Toto (No change)
15. Rush (No change)
16. Loverboy (No change)
17. Led Zeppelin (+1)
18. Pat Benetar (+1)
19. Tom Petty (-2)
20. Jefferson Starship (No change)
Back in the early '60's Beach Rock was the craze, with of course The Beach Boys leading the way. Here is one of the others....
Seeing the old '45 playing brought back some memories.....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ZVfElwt27o (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ZVfElwt27o)
-
July 1985 List
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. Bryan Adams (No change)
3. Foreigner (No change)
4. Survior (+2)
5. Bob Seger (-1)
6. Cars (-1)
7. Dire Straits (+1)
8. Styx (-1)
9. Police (No change)
10. Huey Lewis (No change)
11. Journey (No change)
12. Fleetwood Mac (+1)
13. Jackson Browne ((-2)
14. Toto (No change)
15. Rush (No change)
16. Loverboy (No change)
17. Tom Petty (+2)
18. Led Zeppelin (-1)
19. Jefferson Starship (+1)
20. Pat Benetar (-2)
Noticed movements are fewer and lot's less drastic. Adulthood and all than means .... sets in.
-
1984 - Motorhead
Killed By Death (Live)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RH8nfp5sD_s)
-
1984 - David Gilmour
You Know I'm Right
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XVvgoI1YvJM)
-
Golden Earring
1982 - Twilight Zone
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OF3yBbLrkEY)
1984 - When the Lady Smiles
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lCg04nzm9IQ)
-
1985 - Robert Palmer
This one goes out to @corbe
Addicted to Love
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XcATvu5f9vE)
-
Robert Palmer flashback to 1974
Sneaking Sally Through the Alley
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=skqARFhEHxg)
-
August 1985 List
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. Bryan Adams (No change)
3. Dire Staits (+4)
4. Foreigner (-1)
5. Survivor (-1)
6. Bob Seger (-1)
7. Cars (-1)
8. Huey Lewis (+2)
9. Styx (-1)
10. Jackson Browne (+3)
11. Fleetwood Mac (+1)
12. Police (-3)
13. Journey (-2)
14. Eagles (New)
15. Toto (-1)
16. Rush (-1)
17. Loverboy (-1)
18. Led Zeppelin (No change)
19. Tom Petty (-2)
20. Jefferson Starship (-1)
Concert: Shooting Star and Heart August 21, 1985- Price on Ticket Stub- $13.50
Shooting Star- I will have to shamefully admit, that I had no idea or recollection of who this wass, or what they sounded like. Well after doing a wiki lookup and listening to some of their YT songs...... I still don't. From what I heard and read, they are obviously forgettable, and am surprised Heart's management signed them as an opening act. I got to ask, and answer me honestly..... Do any of your remember this band? This apparently one of their awful, and cheesy ventures into what they are calling music. Can't believe they rated high enough in somebody's book to allow a video to be made..... Here its is.... Don't blame me, I've warned you.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SDiiDTgBdaM (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SDiiDTgBdaM)
Heart- Finally got to see Heart after two earlier misses, due to other obligations. Was not disappointed either. Heart sure toured alot in the day, and if you missed them, you missed a good long, all the hits covered show. I do remember this was during Ann's weight gain period, and she seems like she was struggling with energy. Or maybe she was just ill at the time. With 10 years and 18 charting hits by that time. It'd would have been tough to mess that up.
This came after the cioncert, but my favorite in the latter half of their career.....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fM44F-M78Vs (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fM44F-M78Vs)
-
1985 - Dire Straits
Money For Nothing (Live)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_zOjRlVpAOQ)
So Far Away (Live, '85)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ObzXL0p7t1E)
-
September 1985 List
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. Bryan Adams ((No change)
3. Foreigner (+1)
4. Dire Straits ((-1)
5. Survivor ((No change)
6. Huey Lewis (+2)
7. The Cars (No change)
8. Bob Seger (-2)
9. Styx (No change)
10. Fleetwood Mac (+1)
11. Jackson Browne (-1)
12. Journey (+1)
13. Eagles (+1)
14. Police (-2)
15. Toto (No change)
16. Rush (No change)
17. Loverboy (No change)
18. Led Zeppelin (No change)
19. Tom Petty (No change)
20. Jefferson Starship (No change)
Concert: Neil Young and the International Harvesters- September 20, 1985 Price on stub $15.50
This concert was 2 days before the 1st Farm Aid, which Young was a founder of.
After being burnt by attending the worst concert in my concert going history a few years earlier, I decided to chance it again. Results were mixed. Honestly some of Young's Harvest stuff back in the early '70's were good. But when he tinges that kind of work with C &W? It Sucks. But this time mixed in enough rocking tunes, it was worth the price of admission. Best part of the show is he did Like a Hurricane in true Crazy Horse grinding and crunching style, but without Crazy Horse.
It was a lot like this..... This isn't the burnt out hippy spotify turd, and if he tried this now he'd break a hip......
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qmKrcOB7udA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qmKrcOB7udA)
-
October 1985 List
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. Bryan Adams (No change)
3. Foreigner (No change)
4. Dire Straits (No change)
5. Huey Lewis (+1)
6. Bob Seger (+2)
7. Survivor (-2)
8. Fleetwood Mac (+2)
9. The Cars (-2)
10. Styx (-1)
11. Journey (+1)
12. Jackson Browne (-1)
13. Ealgles (No change)
14. Toto (+1)
15. Police (-1)
16. Loverboy (+1)
17. Led Zeppelin (+1)
18. Rush (-2)
19. Tom Petty (No change)
20. Jefferson Starship (No change)
Someone ought to put a caloriemeter burning deviceon Angus Young during concerts. He's got to be burning 10,000 a night.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4hhlQU0zDpA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4hhlQU0zDpA)
-
1985 - Talking Heads
And She Was
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZV9DNpkfak0)
-
November 1985 List
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. Bryan Adams (No change)
3. Foreigner (No change)
4. Dire Straits (No change)
5. The Cars (+4)
6. Bob Seger (No change)
7. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
8. Huey Lewis (-3)
9. Styx (+1)
10. Journey (+1)
11. Jackson Browne (-1)
12. Survivor (-5)
13. Toto (+1)
14. Eagles (-1)
15. Police (No change)
16. Led Zeppelin (+1)
17. Rush (+1)
18. Loverboy (-2)
19. Tom Petty (No change)
20. Jefferson Starship (No change)
Concert: Robin Trower and Foreigner, November 19, 1985, Price on stub- $15.00
Robin Trower- Best opening act, I'd seen since Styx about 10 years earlier. Trower and SRV are/were the closest you would be able to ever see Hendrix channeled on stage. Awesome long solos that Steamrolled and Rolling Stoned the crowd.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZTyAXk_LyCY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZTyAXk_LyCY)
Foreigner- Foreigner was the complete band.....talent, great songwriting skills, and enough hook pop sensibiities to lure in radio play. Foreigner as we all know them really only existed the 1st 5 albums. And of those 5, 4 were classics. (minus Head Games). Concert did a decent job
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=34bcKbcHSoo (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=34bcKbcHSoo)
-
December 1985 List
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. Foreigner (+1)
3. Bryan Adams (-1)
4. Cars (+1)
5. Dire Straits (-1)
6. Bob Seger (No change)
7. Styx (+2)
8. Huey Lewsi (No change)
9. Fleetwoos Mac (-2)
10. Journey (No change)
11. Survivor (+1)
12. Jackson Browne (-1)
13. Toto (No change)
14. Eagles (No change)
15. Police (No change)
16. Led Zeppelin (No change)
17. ZZ Top (New)
18. Rush (-1)
19. Loverboy (-1)
20. Tom Petty (-1)
Easy my favorite music video of 1995 with my favorite living guitarist. Give yourself one bonus trivia point if you recognize the Bar Keep in this Video....... He might of had something to do with Page's Guitar.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VnjJVwaivKg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VnjJVwaivKg)
-
January 1986 List
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. Foreigner (No change)
3. Bryan Adams (No change)
4. Dire Straits (+1)
5. The Cars (-1)
6. Bob Seger (No change)
7. Styx (No change)
8. Huey Lewis (No change)
9. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
10. Survivor (+1)
11. Journey (-1)
12. Jackson Browne (No change)
13. Toto (No change)
14. The Hooters (New)
15. Eagles (-1)
16. ZZ Top (+1)
17, Police (-2)
18. Led Zeppelin (-12)
19. Rush (-1)
20. Loverboy (-1)
The Hooters- Long before a Breastaurant and a Fox sitcom highjacked the name in the venacular, The Hooters were a band that took their name from the nickname of a keyboard harmonica. They were short lived, and honestly only produced four albums in the tradional sense of release. Their true debut was very very good. And after you hear the ones that got airplay, I'll venture you remember them too. But alas, too much... too soon, subesquent albums were much weaker.... and they quickly faded.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zB1Q-PfUvN0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zB1Q-PfUvN0)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2LE0KpcP05I (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2LE0KpcP05I)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3NqtwAv57_A (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3NqtwAv57_A)
-
Neil Young flashback - The heroin days
After the Goldrush
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gGEhbRvfNS4)
Sugar Mountain
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L86gQQBYSc4)
Into the Black
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UDTx0JQlXRY)
-
1985 - The Eurythmics
Would I Lie To You?
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7C3HYOLJSoM)
-
1985 - Tom Petty
Don't Come Around Here No More
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QPKi3yFmBM4)
-
The thing that sucks the most about the 80s music is the synthesized drums and the cacophony vocal effects which many bands adopted, drifting away from true rock and roll.
-
Case in point: 1985 - Starship
We Built This City
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PAVf9qUd5lw)
Mickey Thomas and Grace Slick still had it. But the old Jefferson Airplane days are dead.
-
1986 - Peter Gabriel
Bigtime
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zDPAIvtK8PA)
In Your Eyes
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SQ5ual6Jwp8)
-
The thing that sucks the most about the 80s music is the synthesized drums and the cacophony vocal effects which many bands adopted, drifting away from true rock and roll.
True. Every fad gets old and tired and flooded with soundalikes.
Basic hard rock, to punk, to New Wave, to UK wuss bands, to Hair bands, to Grunge, etc, etc.
-
1986 - Van Halen - David Lee Roth replaced by Sammy Hagar
Best of Both Worlds
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TldVj-GHWiw)
-
February 1986 List
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. Foreigner (No change)
3. Bryan Adams (No change)
4. Dire Straits (No change)
5. Toto (+8)
6. The Cars (-1)
7. Bob Seger (-1)
8. Styx (-1)
9. Survivor (+1)
10. Huey Lewis (-2)
11. Fleetwood Mac (-2)
12. The Hooters (+2)
13. Journey (-2)
14. Jackson Browne (-2)
15. Eagles (No change)
16. ZZ Top (No change)
17. Police (No change)
18. Rush (+1)
19. Led Zeppelin (-1)
20. Loverboy (No change)
Another great sleeper in the Rush catalog..... Their percieved filler would be hits for other bands.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n95r64HhLOQ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n95r64HhLOQ)
-
March 1986 List
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. Foreigner (No change)
3. Bryan Adams (No change)
4. Toto (+1)
5. Dire Straits (-1)
6. The Cars (No change)
7. Bob Seger (No change)
8. Styx (No change)
9. Fleetwood Mac (+2)
10. Survivor (-1)
11. Huey Lewis (-1)
12. The Hooters (No change)
13. Journey (No change)
14. Jackson Browne (No change)
15. ZZ Top (+1)
16. Eagles (-1)
17. Police (No change)
18. Led Zeppelin (+1)
19. Rush (-1)
20. Loverboy (No change)
I haven't given much attention to the modern acts, mostly because this is a classic rock thead. My kids music pretty much stunk, but there were some songs and bands that weren't band. I really liked this one. Very unique sound for the time with kind of a Nirvanna / Pumpkins vibe to it. Crap!!!! This thing is 25 years old now. Where has time flown? Isn't 25 years the line for classic rock?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SSbBvKaM6sk (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SSbBvKaM6sk)
-
April 1986 List
1. Foreigner (+1)
2. Neil Young (-1)
3. Bryan Adams (No change)
4. Toto (No change)
5. Dire Straits (No change)
6. Cars (No change)
7. Styx (+1)
8. Bob Seger (-1)
9.Fleetwood Mac (No change)
10. Huey Lewis (+1)
11. Survivior (-1)
12. The Hooters (No change)
13. Journey (No change)
14. Jackson Browne (No change)
15. Eagles (+1)
16. ZZ Top (-1)
17. Led Zeppelin (+1)
18. Police (-1)
19. Rush (No change)
20. (No change)
Then there was that wave of nuevo punk bands of the '00's. Gotta laugh at Blink's perception of what they thought our generation was about. :silly:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vVy9Lgpg1m8 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vVy9Lgpg1m8)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Ht5RZpzPqw (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Ht5RZpzPqw)
-
May 1986 List
1. Foreigner (No change)
2. Neil Young (No change)
3. Dire Straits (+2)
4. Bryan Adams (-1)
5. Toto (-1)
6. Styx (+1)
7. Bob Seger (+1)
8. The Cars (-2)
9. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
10. Huey Lewis (No change)
11. Hooters (+1)
12. Survivor (-1)
13. Journey (No change)
14. Jackson Browne (No change)
15. Honeymoon Suite (New)
16. Eagles (-1)
17. Led Zeppelin (No change)
18. ZZ Top (-2)
19. Rush (No change)
20. Police (-2)
Honeymoon Suite- Very similar story as the Hooters. Another Canadian band in the vein of April Wine...... Short term success, with a couple of really good songs, but didn't make a career out of it. If you listened to music in 1986, I'll bet you will probably remember one of these. Here are the good ones...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uK0AmgDGpPo (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uK0AmgDGpPo)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FvjBx0om2H4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FvjBx0om2H4) defCon Cheese 5
-
June 1986 List
1. Foreigner (No change)
2. Neil Young (No change)
3. Bryan Adams (+1)
4. Dire Straits (-1)
5. Toto (No change)
6. Bob Seger (+1)
7. Styx (-1)
8. Cars (No change)
9. Honeymoon Suite (+6)
10. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
11. Huey Lewis (-1)
12. Journey (+1)
13. Jackson Browne (+1)
14. Hooter (-3)
15. Survivor (-3)
16. Eagles (No change)
17. Rush (+2)
18. Led Zeppelin (-1)
19. ZZ Top (-1)
20. Police (No change)
Sitting in my bed in about 1972, I was listening to Beaker Street on the radio after midnight, and this song came on. In my relatively sheltered existance, I had not realized that some people's mind's were this eerily messed up. The song sure made an impression......
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZeMlQEWEg2Q (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZeMlQEWEg2Q)
-
1986 - Eric Clapton
It's In the Way That You Use It
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gzlsUVHxCM0)
-
1986 - Steve Winwood
Back in the High Life Again (Live, '89)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=58OQEWEJb60)
Higher Love (Live)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MM9qtyV-Fg8)
-
1986 - Queen
Princes of the Universe
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7QaN0NpGws)
Gimme the Prize
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tvvfq4pEUlE)
There can be only one.
-
1986 - Bon Jovi
Living On a Prayer
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CuUefy9bT9U)
-
1986 - Metallica
Welcome Home (Live, '89)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lqee-u7Uq2I)
-
1986 - Beastie Boys
Fight For Your Right
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ClLCqZin9HY)
-
1986 - Iggy Pop
Cry For Love
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9LMwqOMTl0M)
-
July 1986 List
1. Foreigner (No change)
2. Neil Young (No change)
3. Bryan Adams (No change)
4. Honeymoon Suite (+5)
5. Bob Seger (+1)
6. Toto (-1)
7. Dire Straits (-3)
8. Styx (-1)
9. Cars (-1)
10. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
11. Huey Lewis (No change)
12. Jackson Browne (+1)
13. Journey (-1)
14. Eagles (+2)
15. Rush (+2)
16. Survivor (-1)
17. The Hooters (-3)
18. Led Zeppelin (No change)
19. Police (+1)
20. ZZ Top (-1)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lqy1i1Il7wI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lqy1i1Il7wI)
-
August 1986 List
1. Foreigner (No change)
2. Bryan Adams (+1)
3. Neil Young (-1)
4. Honeymoon Suite (No change)
5. Toto (+1)
6. Bob Seger (-1)
7. Dire Straits (No change)
8. Fleetwood Mac (+2)
9. Cars (No change)
10. Styx (-2)
11. Eagles (+3)
12. Jackson Browne (No change)
13. Huey Lewis (-2)
14. Journey (-1)
15. Rush (No change)
16. Suvivior (No change)
17. Led Zeppelin (+1)
18. Police (+1)
19. Hooters (-2)
20. ZZ Top (No change)
Still have some Cheap Trick Stickers Rick Neilson threw in the crowd at the concert I attended. I bet he threw 5000, cause my stack was about 20. All the stickum has dry rotted off, but the music lives on.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZbkypX1OhZ0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZbkypX1OhZ0)
-
September 1986 List
1. Foreigner- (No change)
2. Neil Young (+1)
3. Bryan Adams (-1)
4. Honeymoon Suite (No change)
5. Toto (No change)
6. Bob Seger (No change)
7. Styx (+3)
8. Cars (+1)
9. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
10. Dire Straits (-3)
11. Huey Lewis (+2)
12. Eagles (-1)
13. INXS (New)
14. Journey (No change)
15. Jackson Browne (-3)
16. Rush (-1)
17. Police (+1)
18. Led Zeppelin (-1)
19. Hooters (No change)
20. Pat Benetar (New)
INXS- My favorite Australian group not fronted by the Young Brothers. INXS were kind of a latter new wave , ska-ish, funky kind of band that really had some good song writing. MTV really helped them take off, and they had great success , with 7 platinum albums. Not really in the true vein of rock and roll, but one of those guilty pleasures.
A little personal back story.... The Watering Hole I frequented that I was able to see both the Ramones and Romantics for had in their Coming Attractions board.... Coming Soon.... INXS. I thought it would be awesome again to see a 3rd quality band at at the bar. In fact, I bugged the shit out of the Bar Tender, on just when the band was coming. Sadly, I think it came down to scheduling conflicts, so it never happened. :crying:
As I said this is a band that probably would have even hit higher success, if their lead singer hadn't died. At the time, it was ruled a suicide, but I think everyone realizes that it was maybe one of the first famous deaths from erotic-auto asphyxiation. Terrible tragedy, and subsequent work just wasn't the same. Before then? Some great tunes.....
Here are some you might remember.....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=azfG5H-pCVg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=azfG5H-pCVg)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F93ywiGMDnQ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F93ywiGMDnQ)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XJyKTNdPL5s (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XJyKTNdPL5s)
-
October 1986 List
1. Foreigner (No change)
2. Neil Young (No change)
3. Bryan Adams (No change)
4. Toto (+1)
5. Honeymoon Suite (-1)
6. Styx (+1)
7. Bob Seger (-1)
8. Boston (New)
9. Cars (-1)
10. Huey Lewis (+1)
11. Eagles (+1)
12. INXS (+1)
13. Fleetwood Mac (-4)
14. Dire Straits (-4)
15. Journey (-1)
16. Jackson Browne (-1)
17. Pat Benetar (+3)
18. Rush (-2)
19. Led Zeppelin (-1)
20 Police (-3)
Boston comes roaring back in October 1986, based on the strength of 3rd Stage which was a breath of fresh air after Boston's disasterous Don't Look Back. Don't Look Back may be the one most drastic drop in quality after a great debut in Rock history. Of course, the band stated that it was a middle finger to the record company.... But Mr. Scholz, there were many of us who thought that bird was aimed at us too. It was awful, and totally un-inspired. And my opinion of Boston in the late '70's and early 80's reflected that.
This much was much improved, but still not near as great as the debut. Also, if I do have one other gripe, they overdid the love song sappy shit. Boston... this is not a band chicks really dig... stick with the script. IMO..3 best cuts from the LP...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jw0YNvlFOrI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jw0YNvlFOrI)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m49NJfI3bP0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m49NJfI3bP0)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0MWNhQ7RZDU (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0MWNhQ7RZDU)
-
1986 - Kenny Loggins
Danger Zone
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eqo0ERz7TQM)
-
November 1986 List
1. Foreigner (No change)
2. Neil Young (No change)
3. Bryan Adams (No change)
4. Boston (+4)
5. Toto (-1)
6. Bob Seger (+1)
7. Honeymoon Suite (-2)
8. Styx (-2)
9. Cars (No change)
10. Eagles (+1)
11. INXS (+1)
12. Huey Lewis (-2)
13. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
14. Jackson Browne (+2)
15. Pat Benetar (+2)
16. Dire Straits (-2)
17. Journey (-2)
18. Rush (No change)
19. Led Zeppelin (No change)
20. Police (No change)
Some EVH wizardry....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZ7ywrl5oMo (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZ7ywrl5oMo)
-
1985 - James Brown
Living In America
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v854Q67OBbA)
-
1985 - ZZ Top
Sleeping Bag
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mm6pCdrdbiY)
-
1986 - The Moody Blues
Wildest Dreams
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2PIFDTuf2RM)
-
December 1986 List
1. Foreigner (No change)
2. Neil Young (No change)
3. Bryan Adams (No change)
4. INXS (+7)
5. Toto (No change)
6. Boston (-2)
7. Bob Seger (-1)
8. Cars (+1)
9. Styx (-1)
10. Honeymoon Suite (-3)
11. Eagles (-1)
12. Pat Benetar (+3)
13. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
14. Huey Lewis (-2)
15. Jackson Browne (-1)
16. Dire Straits (No change)
17. Rush (+1)
18. Journey (-1)
19. Led Zeppelin (No change)
20. Police (No change)
Little levity, and more proof how unprofessional Jimmy Fallon was. Keep it together bub.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cVsQLlk-T0s (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cVsQLlk-T0s)
-
January 1987 List
1. Foreigner (No change)
2. Neil Young (No change)
3. Bryan Adams (No change)
4. Boston (+2)
5. Toto (No change)
6. INXS (-2)
7. Cars (+1)
8. Styx (+1)
9. Pat Benetar (+3)
10. Bob Seger (-3)
11. Eagles (No change)
12. Fleetwood Mac (+1)
13. Honeymoon Suite (-3)
14. Huey Lewis (No change)
15. Dire Straits (+1)
16. Jackson Browne (-1)
17. Journey (+1)
18. Rush (-1)
19. Led Zeppelin (No change)
20. Police (No change)
Another '60's classic.....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=41cFf9N5F-A&list=PLYKtjSUVADTbxiochOEi6PGu6HJIssPtf&index=35 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=41cFf9N5F-A&list=PLYKtjSUVADTbxiochOEi6PGu6HJIssPtf&index=35)
-
February 1987 List
1. Foreigner (No change)
2. Neil Young (No change)
3. Bryan Adams (No change)
4. Boston (No change)
5. Toto (No change)
6. Cars (+1)
7. Styx (+1)
8. INXS (No change)
9. Pat Benetar (No change)
10. Bob Seger (No change)
11. Bruce Hornsby and the Range (New)
12. Eagles (-1)
13. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
14. Huey Lewis (No change)
15. Honeymoon Suite (-2)
16. Dire Straits (-1)
17. Jackson Browne (-1)
18. Journey (-1)
19. Police (+1)
20. Rush (-1)
Bruce Hornsby and the Range-. Pleasant soft rocking crooner of the late '80's. Brief successful career with a number of hits in the late '80's. Fired his band, after 3 Albums, and solo career tanked. Tried with another band (Noisemakers -lol), and that fell short. Most of his work in the past 25 years has been collaborations with C & W stars. (Yawn). But in the beginning he had a couple of nice soft rockers, that were worth a listen.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cOeKidp-iWo (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cOeKidp-iWo)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PUWZB5Uoi90 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PUWZB5Uoi90)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KfKIq1Pmc8Q (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KfKIq1Pmc8Q)
-
March and April 1987 List
1. Foreigner (No change)
2. Bryan Adams (+1)
3. Neil Young (-1)
4. Boston (No change)
5. Toto (No change)
6. Styx (+1)
7. Pat Benetar (+2)
8. Cars (-2)
9. INXS (-1)
10. Bob Seger (No change)
11. Bruce Hornsby (No change)
12. Eagles (No change)
13. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
14. Dire Straits (+2)
15. Huey Lewis (-1)
16. Jackson Browne (+1)
17. Honeymoon Suite (-2)
18. Journey (No change)
19. Police (No change)
20. Rush (No change)
A few posts ago, we had Bruce Dickinson lamenting about needing more cowbell. Well, when you are a 10 year old boy and you are living through the the mid to late '60's. There was only prescription for TV, and that prescription was More Go-Go Girls.....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xEJ0lV_vSpE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xEJ0lV_vSpE)
-
February 1987 List
1. Foreigner (No change)
2. Neil Young (No change)
3. Bryan Adams (No change)
4. Boston (No change)
5. Toto (No change)
6. Cars (+1)
7. Styx (+1)
8. INXS (No change)
9. Pat Benetar (No change)
10. Bob Seger (No change)
11. Bruce Hornsby and the Range (New)
12. Eagles (-1)
13. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
14. Huey Lewis (No change)
15. Honeymoon Suite (-2)
16. Dire Straits (-1)
17. Jackson Browne (-1)
18. Journey (-1)
19. Police (+1)
20. Rush (-1)
Bruce Hornsby and the Range-. Pleasant soft rocking crooner of the late '80's. Brief successful career with a number of hits in the late '80's. Fired his band, after 3 Albums, and solo career tanked. Tried with another band (Noisemakers -lol), and that fell short. Most of his work in the past 25 years has been collaborations with C & W stars. (Yawn). But in the beginning he had a couple of nice soft rockers, that were worth a listen.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cOeKidp-iWo (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cOeKidp-iWo)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PUWZB5Uoi90 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PUWZB5Uoi90)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KfKIq1Pmc8Q (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KfKIq1Pmc8Q)
I went to a concert that featured Hornsby for the opening act for Bonnie Raitt. He was excellent. He played piano for Bonnie's "I Can't Make You Love Me" that brought tears to my eyes due to it's purity.
I have enjoyed this thread and been to many of the mentioned concerts.
-
I went to a concert that featured Hornsby for the opening act for Bonnie Raitt. He was excellent. He played piano for Bonnie's "I Can't Make You Love Me" that brought tears to my eyes due to it's purity.
I have enjoyed this thread and been to many of the mentioned concerts.
Thanks, and would love to hear about your experiences at those concerts. Attending rock concerts were a sociological statement for many of us back in the '70's and '80's. Who, what, and where we heard these great bands gave many hours of great conversation back in the day. Like for me, buing the entire band of the Ramones a drink, and having a conversation with them at a bar they were performing is not an every day occurence for most people.
And of course there's the dark side, like me almost getting crushed at an Alice Cooper concert. I actually believe I was lucky, and could have easily been a statistic, like the the poor people in Cinncinnati who attended The Who concert. And many in between, concerts were great places to take dates too. And back then, music was music. Not the noise we mostly hear today.
-
May 1987 List
1. Foreigner (No change)
2. Bryan Adams (No change)
3. Neil Young (No change)
4. Boston (No change)
5. Styx (+1)
6. Toto (-1)
7. Cars (+1)
8. Pat Benetar (-1)
9. Bob Seger (+1)
10. INXS (-1)
11. Eagles (+1)
12. Bruce Hornby (-1)
13. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
14. Dire Straits (No change)
15. Huey Lewis (No change)
16. Jackson Browne (No change)
17. Journey (+1)
18. Honeymoon Suite (-1)
19. Police (No change)
20. Rush (No change)
Look Ma..... No Tats or Piercings!!!!!! Just a little Canned Heat......
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7iy3d-i6IQE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7iy3d-i6IQE)
-
June 1987 List-
1. Bryan Adams (+1)
2. Foreigner (-1)
3. Neil Young (No change)
4. Boston (No change)
5. Styx (No change)
6. Cars (+1)
7. Toto (-1)
8. Bob Seger (+1)
9. Eagles (+2)
10. Bruce Hornsby (+2)
11. Pat Benetar (No change)
12. INXS (-2)
13. Huey Lewis (+2)
14. Dire Straits (No change)
15. Fleetwood Mac (-2)
16. Jackson Browne (No change)
17. Journey (No change)
18. Police (+1)
19. Honeymoon Suite (-1)
20. Rush (No change)
I sure remember this. Styles just as I recall.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sbAM2HGGCVY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sbAM2HGGCVY)
-
You began losing my interest after the 70s.
I share this philosophy
https://youtu.be/PXwF7g5wksQ
-
July 1987 List-
1. Bryan Adams (No change)
2. Foreigner (No change)
3. Neil Young (No change)
4. Boston (No change)
5. Styx (No change)
6. Cars (No change)
7. Eagles (+2)
8. Bob Seger (No change)
9. Toto (-2)
10. Huey Lewis (+3)
11. INXS (+1)
12. Bruce Hornsby (-2)
13. Pat Benetar (-2)
14. Fleetwood Mac (+1)
15. Journey (-1)
16. Dire Straits (-2)
17. Jackson Browne (-1)
18. Police (No change)
19. Rush (+1)
20. Tom Petty (New)
More Rock and Roll History, and along with Chuck Berry, one of the first great showman in Rock......
Back to 1958., and no recollection on my behalf, as I as was in diapers.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=elZbkfxRHZg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=elZbkfxRHZg)
-
August 1987 list-
1. Bryan Adams- (No change)
2. Foreigner (No change)
3. Neil Young (No change)
4. Boston (No change)
5. Styx (No change)
6. Cars (No change)
7. Bob Seger (+1)
8. Toto (+1)
9. Fleetwood Mac (+5)
10. Eagles (-3)
11. Huey Lewis (-2)
12. INXS (-2)
13. Bruce Hornsby (-2)
14. Dire Straits (+2)
15. Pat Benetar (-2)
16. Journey (-1)
17. Jackson Browne (No change)
18. Rush (+1)
19. Tom Petty (+1)
20. Police (-2)
Dedicated to Dr. Johnny Fever (1940-2022)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UPABesa7wcE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UPABesa7wcE)
-
September 1987 list
1. Neil Young (+2)
2. Bryan Adams (-1)
3. Foreigner (-1)
4. Boston (No change)
5. Styx (No change)
6. Cars (No change)
7. Toto (+1)
8. Bob Seger (-1)
9. Eagles (+1)
10. Huey Lewis (+1)
11. Fleetwood Mac (-2)
12. Dire Straits (+2)
13. INXS (-1)
14. Bruce Hornsby (-1)
15. Heart (New)
16. Pat Benetar (-1)
17. Journey (-1)
18. Rush (No change)
19. Jackson Browne (-2)
20. Tom Petty (-1)
1987? Have to have some Def Leppard
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0UIB9Y4OFPs (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0UIB9Y4OFPs)
-
October 1987 List
1. Bryan Adams (+1)
2. Neil Young (-1)
3. Foreigner (No change)
4. Boston (No change)
5. Styx (No change)
6. Cars (No change)
7. Toto (No change)
8. Eagles (+1)
9. Bob Seger (-1)
10. Heart (+5)
11. Huey Lewis (-1)
12. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
13. Dire Straits (-1)
14. INXS (-1)
15. Pat Benetar (+1)
16. Tom Petty (+4)
17. Journey (No change)
18. Honeymoon Suite (-4)
19. Jacksn Brown (No change)
20. Rush (-2)
Hammer of the gods......
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KwG9iRFmY1I (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KwG9iRFmY1I)
-
November 1987 List
1. Bryan Adams (No change)
2. Neil Young (No change)
3. Foreigner (No change)
4. Boston (No change)
5. Styx (No change)
6. Toto (+1)
7. Heart (+3)
8. Cars (-2)
9. Bob Seger (No change)
10. Eagles (-2)
11. Dire Straits (+2)
12. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
13. Huey Lewis (-2)
14. Pat Benetar (+1)
15. INXS (-1)
16. Yes (New)
17. Tom Petty (-1)
18. Jackson Browne (+1)
19. Journey (-2)
20. Rush (No change)
Yes returns to the list based on strenghts of 90125 and Big Generator. Yes are such great musicans, never get tired of listening. Here are my two favorites from Big Generator
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hrowi4hHz8A (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hrowi4hHz8A)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAf-SF3zLtw (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAf-SF3zLtw)
-
December 1987 List
1. Foreigner (+2)
2. Bryan Adams (-1)
3. Neil Young (-1)
4. Boston (No change)
5. Styx (No change)
6. Toto (No change)
7. Heart (No change)
8. Cars (No change)
9. Eagles (+1)
10. Bob Segar (-1)
11. Dire Straits (No change)
12. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
13. Pat Benetar (+1)
14. Huey Lewis (-1)
15. Tom Petty (+2)
16. INXS (-1)
17. Yes (-1)
18. Jackson Browne (No change)
19. Journey (No change)
20. Rush (No change)
Remember this coming out on Beaker Street. Wow, over 50 years now.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fCgs8KMU-nI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fCgs8KMU-nI)
-
January 1988 List
1. Foreigner (No change)
2. Bryan Adams (No change)
3. Neil Young (No change)
4. Boston (No change)
5. Styx (No change)
6. Toto (No change)
7. Cars (+1)
8. Heart (-1)
9. Eagles (No change)
10. Tom Petty (+5)
11. Bob Seger (-1)
12. Dire Straits (-1)
13. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
14. Pat Benetar (-1)
15. Huey Lewis (-1)
16. Yes (+1)
17. INXS (-1)
18. Journey (+1)
19. Jackson Browne (-1)
20. Rush (No change)
After what was a slight mid '80's lull, TP roars back permanently on this list with an earlier Southern Accents. He didn't make a weak album afterwards. Tom Petty is in my opinion outside of Dylan, the greatest rock songwriter of all time.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TCFAzPl1QmE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TCFAzPl1QmE)
-
February 1988 List
1. Bryan Adams (+1)
2. Foreigner (-1)
3. Neil Young (No change)
4. Boston (No change)
5. Styx (No change)
6. Toto (No change)
7. Bob Seger (+4)
8. Cars (-1)
9. Eagles (No change)
10. Heart (-2)
11. Tom Petty (-1)
12. Fleetwood Mac (+1)
13. Dire Straits (-1)
14. Pat Benetar (No change)
15. Yes (+1)
16. Huey Lewis (-1)
17. Journey (+1)
18. Jackson Browne (+1)
19. Rush (+1)
20. INXS (-3)
This is my last intentional concert to attend. By this time, work and family obligations, and its associated exhaustion had pretty much squeched the priority to attend concerts. This one was 2 1/2 since the last one attended. I did attend a Def Leppard concert 7 years later from this point, but that was for my kid.
In this one.... I had a chance to see Yes, while on a business trip.
Concert: Yes - February 22, 1988, price on stub- $16.00
Along just like Rush, the experience of hearing such spectaular musicanship, and such great music was an etheral experience. The conert was a beautiful mix of their old classic work, and a good mix of 90125 and Big Generator. Anderson's voice was pitch perfect amazingly strong for someone getting up to that age as. a rocker. If there ever was an act to end your concert going career on, this was the one.
Here was the set list.....
Rhythm of Love
Hold On
Heart of the Sunrise
Changes
Big Generator
Shoot High, Aim Low
Holy Lamb (Song for Harmonic Convergence)
Keyboard Solo
Solly's Beard
Make It Easy
Owner of a Lonely Heart
Yours Is No Disgrace
Ritual (Nous sommes du soleil)
Amazing Grace
And You and I
Starship Trooper
Love Will Find a Way
I've Seen All Good People
Roundabout
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AYmeJlm7Gcg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AYmeJlm7Gcg)
-
March and April 1988 List
1. Bryan Adams (No change)
2. Foreigner (No change)
3. Neil Young (No change)
4. Boston (No change)
5. Styx (No change)
6. Yes (+9)
7. Toto (-1)
8. Cars (No change)
9. Eagles (No change)
10. Bob Seger (-3)
11. Heart (-1)
12. Tom Petty (-1)
13. Pat Benetar (+1)
14. Dire Straits (-1)
15. Fleetwood Mac (-3)
16. Journey (+1)
17. Huey Lewis (-1)
18. Jackson Browne (No change)
19. Rush (No change)
20. Led Zeppelin (New)
I don't think I had added any Zappa yet....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0elpH46dOyQ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0elpH46dOyQ)
-
1986 - Eurythmics
Missionary Man
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y30nzjoFxfU)
-
1986 - The Fabulous Thunderbirds
Tuff Enuff
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nEDK52Q0AgA)
-
1987 - U2 releases Joshua Tree album.
With or Without You (Live, '87)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WZKnQRkWzLI)
Where the Streets Have No Name (Live, '87)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1iFwg-VXTxQ)
Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DOEeprZ2PxE)
-
1987 - REM releases Document album
The One I Love
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NImocYmzR7Y)
It's the End of the World
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xnW0oi7iPQ4)
-
1987 - Pink Floyd
On the Turning Away
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ySl-2gEyuHw)
-
1987 - Fleetwood Mac
Everywhere (Live, '87)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEfCZmkzsTY)
-
1987 - Greg Allman Band
I'm No Angel (Live)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gFflgIlutmA)
-
1987 - Steve Winwood
Higher Love (Live)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MM9qtyV-Fg8)
The Finer Things
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aU4tFpwYK0s)
Flashback to 1982 - Valerie
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xOTjkQMdF6o)
-
1987 - Jethro Tull
Steel Monkey
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z56Qr7xmkEk)
Jump Start
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YO3qR5sTAuU)
-
1987 - Guns N' Roses debuts
Welcome to the Jungle (Live)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VZY03tEIDKA)
Sweet Child of Mine (Live)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v487JLdxALU)
-
1987 - Aerosmith
Dude Looks Like a Lady
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mn5P224Rou8)
Magic Touch (Live)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FxjWv7jL_ko)
-
May 1988 List
1. Bryan Adams (No change)
2. Foreigner (No change)
3. Neil Young (No change)
4. Boston (No change)
5. Styx (No change)
6. Yes (No change)
7. Toto (No change)
8. Eagles (+1)
9. Cars (-1)
10. Heart (+1)
11. Bob Seger (-1)
12. Pat Benetar (+1)
13. Tom Petty (-1)
14. Dire Straits (No change)
15. Led Zeppelin (+5)
16. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
17. Rush (+2)
18. Journey (-2)
19. Huey Lewis (-2)
20. Jackson Browne (-2)
What I feel is the best song on the Firm's second album. Smooth Page riffs....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9AwW8S6sNk0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9AwW8S6sNk0)
-
June 1988 List -
1. Neil Young (+2)
2. Foreigner (No change)
3. Bryan Adams (-2)
4. Boston (No change)
5. Styx (No change)
6. Yes (No change)
7. Van Halen (New)
8. Toto (-1)
9. Eagles (-1)
10. Cars (-1)
11. Heart (-1)
12. Bob Seger (-1)
13. Tom Petty (No change)
14. Led Zeppelin (+1)
15. Dire Straits (-1)
16. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
17. Rush (No change)
18. Pat Benetar (-6)
19. Journey (-1)
20. Jackson Browne (No change)
VH's back big on the list with OU182. By this time, there seemed to be a lull of good stuff from bands I liked. This particular LP had 3 good tracks......
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OZGXRCI-JzQ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OZGXRCI-JzQ)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6eb2XW0et8g (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6eb2XW0et8g)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cWDEmnVZe6I (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cWDEmnVZe6I)
-
July 1988 List-
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. Foreigner (No change)
3. Bryan Adams (No change)
4. Boston (No change)
5. Yes (+1)
6. Styx (-1)
7. Van Halen (No change)
8. Toto (No change)
9. Cars (+1)
10. Eagles (-1)
11. Heart (No change)
12. Led Zeppelin (+2)
13. Rush (+4)
14. Bob Seger (-2)
15. Tom Petty (-2)
16. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
17. Dire Straits (-2)
18. Journey (+1)
19. Pat Benetar (-1)
20. Jackson Browne (No change)
This is another one of those songs that just scream '60's that was ingrained in your mind. Adding the 2 minute abridged sample that was on Ed Sullivan, and their 15 minute trip and tour through psychedelia. Both are from 1969, I beleive.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MLlown9_G3w (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MLlown9_G3w)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CsBwBct0_5U (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CsBwBct0_5U)
-
August 1988 List-
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. Foreigner (No change)
3. Bryan Adams (No change)
4. Boston (No change)
5. Yes (No change)
6. Rush (+7)
7. Styx (-1)
8. Van Halen (-1)
9. Toto (-1)
10. Heart (+1)
11. Cars (-2)
12. Eagles (-2)
13. Led Zeppelin (-1)
14. Bob Seger (No change)
15. Tom Petty (No change)
16. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
17. Dire Straits (No change)
18. Journey (No change)
19. Pat Benetar (No change)
20. Jackson Browne (No change)
Rush comes back for good on the list. I will have to admit that Signals was a disappointment to me after Moving Picutes, and I almost missed Grace Under Pressure, and Hold Your Fire. When in essence, I may be in the defitnite minority, but if I have to pick succesive 3 albums that I enjoyed the most, it would be those 3. Of course, the band cotinued to grow in talent and legend, and in my mind, no one was ever better. Here are 3 great tracks from '84-'87 that capture one from each LP.
Live version, but from Grace Under Pressure....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EndaI-okEIc (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EndaI-okEIc)
From Power Windows.....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cxxgEzVkEjI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cxxgEzVkEjI)
And Finally from Hold Your Fire......
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ngrHeAg27Gc (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ngrHeAg27Gc)
-
September and October 1988 List
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. Foreigner (No change)
3. Yes (+2)
4. Boston (No change)
5. Bryan Adams (-2)
6. Rush (No change)
7. Styx (No change)
8. Toto (+1)
9. Van Halen (-1)
10. Heart (No change)
11. Cars (No change)
12. Eagles (No change)
13. Led Zeppelin (No change)
14. Bob Seger (No change)
15. Fleetwood Mac (+1)
16. Tom Petty (-1)
17. Eddie Money (New)
18. Journey (No change)
19. Dire Straits (-2)
20. Jackson Browne (No change)
This post is dedicated to that brave group of patriots in Canada who are fighting tyranny on behalf of all the freedom loving people through out the World. They deserve our support and respect.
Fight on against the evil and tyranical Canadian Government (Solar Federation)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sUzAWw4qsmA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sUzAWw4qsmA)
-
November 1988 List
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. Foreigner (No change)
3. Yes (No change)
4. Bryan Adams (No change)
5. Styx (+2)
6. Boston (-2)
7. Rush (-1)
8. Van Halen (+1)
9. Toto (-1)
10. Heart (No change)
11. Cars (No change)
12. Eagles (No change)
13. Led Zeppelin (No change)
14. Fleetwood Mac (+1)
15. Bob Seger (-1)
16. Eddie Money (+1)
17. Tom Petty (-1)
18. Dire Straits (+1)
19. Journey (-1)
20. Jackson Browne (No change)
Not the most enjoyable piece of work by ELP, but some of the most incredibily difficult music to perform in the historu of rock music. It's like Emerson was thinking, I don't care about the aesthetics, I just want to show off.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5h2pd_8Nb1E (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5h2pd_8Nb1E)
-
December 1982 List
1. Neil Young (No change)
2. Foreigner (No change)
3. Yes (No change)
4. Bryan Adams (No change)
5. Boston (+1)
6. Styx (-1)
7. Rush (No change)
8. Toto (+1)
9. Van Halen (-1)
10. Eddie Money (+6)
11. Heart (-1)
12. Eagles (No change)
13. Cars (-2)
14. Led Zeppelin (-1)
15. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
16. Bob Seger (-1)
17. Dire Straits (+1)
18. Tom Petty (-1)
19. Journey (No change)
20. Jackson Browne (No change)
This ought to wake everyone up!!!!!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aXAU4MmMIMo (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aXAU4MmMIMo)
-
January 1989 List
1. Foreigner (+1)
2. Neil Young (-1)
3. Yes (No change)
4. Bryan Adams (No change)
5. Rush (+2)
6. Boston (-1)
7. Styx (-1)
8. Toto (No change)
9. Van Halen (No change)
10. Eddie Money (No change)
11. Eagles (+1)
12. Cars (+1)
13. Heart (-2)
14. Led Zeppelin (No change)
15. Bob Seger (+1)
16. Fleetwood mac (-1)
17. Def Leppard (New)
18. Dire Straits (-1)
19. Tom Petty (-1)
20. Journey (-1)
Another shot/jolt of Social Distortion this morning.....
This was over 20 years after the earlier cut. This band for all practical purposes only made 5 studio albums in those 20 years. They did it on their own terms, and good for them.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nHI5QULCBd8&list=PLcZMZxR9uxC9-kWtt1urJkb-MVGM_idrc&index=7 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nHI5QULCBd8&list=PLcZMZxR9uxC9-kWtt1urJkb-MVGM_idrc&index=7)
-
February 1989 List
1. Foreigner (No change)
2. Neil Young (No change)
3. Yes (No change)
4. Rush (+1)
5. Bryan Adams (-1)
6. Boston (No change)
7. Styx (No change)
8. Eddie Money (+2)
9. Toto (-1)
10. Van Halen (-1)
11. Eagles (No change)
12. Cars (No change)
13. Heart (No change)
14. Led Zeppelin (No change)
15. Bob Seger (No change)
16. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
17. Dire Straits (+1)
18. Def Leppard (-1)
19. Tom Petty (No change)
20. Journey (No change)
And now to the strange. I am conviced the modern punk metal band Gwar got this oldie from the '60's as their inspiration. On the radio, I think we ought thought the song was pretty strange. The visuals? I'll let you be the judge......
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uDIBM7iR3Ac (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uDIBM7iR3Ac)
-
March, April. and May 1989 List
1. Foreigner (No change)
2. Neil Young (No change)
3. Yes (No change)
4. Rush (No change)
5. Eddie Money (+3)
6. Bryan Adams (-1)
7. Boston (-1)
8. Styx (-1)
9. Toto (No change)
10. Van Halen (No change)
11. Eagles (No change)
12. Heart (+1)
13. Led Zeppelin (+1)
14. Fleetwood Mac (+2)
15. Cars (-3)
16. Bob Seger (-1)
17. Tom Petty (+2)
18. Def Leppard (No change)
19. Dire Straits (-2)
20. Journey (No change)
I know we have an obituary thread, but considering many of the old rockers are getting into that demographic where mortality is an issue. Sadly, they are going to be leaving us at a quicker pace. Here is a rundown of losses in '21.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=863R63WuwHE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=863R63WuwHE)
-
June 1989 List
1. Foreigner (No change)
2. Neil Young (No change)
3. Rush (+1)
4. Yes (-1)
5. Boston (+2)
6. Bryan Adams (No change)
7. Eddie Money (-2)
8. Styx (No change)
9 Toto (No change)
10. Eagles (+1)
11. Van Halen (-1)
12. Tom Petty (+5)
13. Heart (-1)
14. Led Zeppelin (-1)
15. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
16. Bob Seger (No change)
17. Cars (-2)
18. Def Leppard (No change)
19. Dire Straits (No change)
20. Journey (No change)
Significant movement up the list by Tom Petty ,based what I know feel is one of the greatest albums of all time. In fact, I commented many many pages ago, about my 10 albums on a desert Island, and one of them would have to be Full Moon Fever. Almost every song on the album is fabulous. Here are three cuts from the album, that are all huge classics......
1st one? TP, Mike Campbell, the genius Jeff Lynne, and by the way.... half the Beatles.....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nvlTJrNJ5lA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nvlTJrNJ5lA)
:headbang: :headbang: :headbang: :headbang: :headbang:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y1D3a5eDJIs (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y1D3a5eDJIs)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1lWJXDG2i0A (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1lWJXDG2i0A)
-
July 1989 list
1. Rush (+2)
2. Foreigner (-1)
3. Neil Young (-1)
4. Yes (No change)
5. Boston (No change)
6. Bryan Adams (No change)
7. Styx (+1)
8. Eddie Money (-1)
9. Toto (No change)
10. Eagles (No change)
11. Tom Petty (+1)
12. Van Halen (-1)
13. Heart (No change)
14. Fleetwood Mac (+1)
15. Led Zeppelin (-1)
16. Cars (+1)
17. Bob Seger (-1)
18. Dire Straits (+1)
19. Def Leppard (-1)
20. Journey (No change)
Presto....... Rush has reached #1 on the list.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DDEhhElURbU (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DDEhhElURbU)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sAoL5cqwM1I (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sAoL5cqwM1I)
-
August 1989 List
1. Rush (No change)
2. Foreigner (No change)
3. Neil Young (No change)
4. Yes (No change)
5. Bryan Adams (+1)
6. Eddie Money (+2)
7. Boston (-2)
8. Styx (-1)
9. Toto (No change)
10. Eagles (No change)
11. Tom Petty (No change)
12. Heart (+1)
13. Van Halen (-1)
14. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
15. Led Zeppelin (No change)
16. Cars (No change)
17. Bob Seger (No change)
18. Dire Straits (No change)
19. Def Leppard (No change)
20. Journey (No change)
One of their greatest.....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CkkQPxoxJJY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CkkQPxoxJJY)
-
September and October 1989 List
1. Rush (No change)
2. Neil Young (+1)
3. Foreigner (-1)
4. Yes (No change)
5. Tom Petty (+6)
6. Eddie Money (-1)
7. Boston (No change)
8. Bryan Adams (-3)
9. Styx (-1)
10. Toto (-1)
11. Eagles (-1)
12. Heart (No change)
13. Led Zeppelin (+2)
14. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
15. Van Halen (-2)
16. Cars (No change)
17. Bob Seger (No change)
18. Dire Straits (No change)
19. Def Leppard (No change)
20. Journey (No change)
Admittedly, I am not the biggest Nine Inch Nails fan in the world, but there is no disputing NIN's talents. Also, this is what I feel is the greatest rock music video ever created from an artistic perspective. Stunning visuals and imagery. Strange that Reznor later said he hated this video. I can't imagine why.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dn3j6-yQKWQ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dn3j6-yQKWQ)
-
November 1989 List
1. Tom Petty (+4)
2. Rush (-1)
3. Foreigner (No change)
4. Neil Young (-2)
5. Yes (-2)
6. Eddie Money (No change)
7. Pat Benetar (No change)
8. Styx (+1)
9. ToTo (+1)
10. Bryan Adams (-2)
11. Eagles (No change)
12. Heart (No change)
13. Led Zeppelin (No change)
14. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
15. Van Halen (No change)
16. Cars (No change)
17. Bob Seger (No change)
18. Dire Straits (No change)
19. Def Leppard (No change)
20. Journey (No change)
This is the first song that got me into Yes.... '72
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DwPWGUhEtP0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DwPWGUhEtP0)
-
December 1989 List
1. Tom Petty (No change)
2. Neil Young (+1)
3. Rush (-1)
4. Foreigner ((-1)
5. Yes (No change)
6. Eddie Money (No change)
7. Styx (+1)
8. Boston (-1)
9. Heart (+3)
10. Eagles (+1)
11. Bryan Adams (-1)
12. Toto (-3)
13. Led Zeppelin (No change)
14. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
15. Van Halen (No change)
16. Cars (No change)
17. Dire Straits (+1)
18. Bob Seger (-1)
19. Journey (+1)
20. Def Leppard (-1)
I will finish the 1980's with a song and album that was released at about this same time. The album's name is laughingly called "Freedom", and from that album the song "Rocking in the Free World"..... Which seriously should be given a Simon and Garfunkle nudge towards................ "Sounds of Hypocricy". Neil Young may be a legend of musical songwritting, but he is a piece of shit as a human.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WhjJLZDVRrA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WhjJLZDVRrA)
-
1988 - Robert Palmer
Simply Irresistible
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UrGw_cOgwa8)
-
1987 - INXS
Devil Inside (Live, '88)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BHc01NSuGIo)
-
1988 - Guns n Roses
Patience
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NhBWXyIocq4)
-
1988 - Steve Winwood
Roll With It
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u_vkKozA8OI)
-
1988 - Little Feat
Hate To Lose Your Lovin' (Live)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_38tZeCTdvw)
Let It Roll
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SY48CYcNuKA)
-
1988 - Greg Allman Band
Can't Get Over You
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5beNkUyxauU)
-
Flashback to 1971 - Derek and the Dominoes
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a_9IKZ2cGJc)
-
1988 - Moody Blues
I Know Your Out There Somewhere
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Pm8zjR7T6g)
-
1988 - U2 - Rattle and Hum album
Desire
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s50sOkLGyCg)
All Along the Watchtower (Live, '87)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_bnqqPed5PU)
Helter Skelter (Live)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cLdvK7KuMcc)
-
1988 - REM
Orange Crush (Live)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2BvXBwtrs_k)
Stand
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4R2aTj6Gq8M)
-
1988 - Patti Smith
Up There Down There
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pmBtNMgKmyI)
People Have the Power
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pPR-HyGj2d0)
Looking For You
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G-yzEUObuVw)
-
January 1990 List-
1. Rush (+2)
2. Tom Petty (-1)
3. Neil Young (-1)
4. Foreigner (No change)
5. Boston (+3)
6. Styx (+1)
7. Bryan Adams (+4)
8. Yes (-3)
9. Eddie Money (-3)
10. Heart (-1)
11. Eagles (-1)
12. Led Zeppelin (+1)
13. Toto (-1)
14. Fleetwood Mac (No change)
15. Van Halen (No change)
16. Cars (No change)
17. Dire Straits (No change)
18. Bob Seger (No change)
19. Journey (No change)
20. Def Leppard (No change)
Hittting in big in just a few years, and one of the best of that '90's era....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xmUZ6nCFNoU (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xmUZ6nCFNoU)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-KE9lvU810 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-KE9lvU810)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Th-AqMvvBzE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Th-AqMvvBzE)
-
February 1990 List
1. Rush (No change)
2. Tom Petty (No change)
3. Neil Young (No change)
4. Foreigner (No change)
5. Boston (No change)
6. Yes (+2)
7. Styx (-1)
8. Eddie Money (+1)
9. Heart (+1)
10. Eagles (+1)
11. Bryan Adams (-4)
12. Led Zeppelin (No change)
13. Fleetwood Mac (+1)
14. Toto (-1)
15. Van Halen (No change)
16. The Smithereens (New)
17. Cars (-1)
18. Dire Straits (-1)
19. Bob Seger (-1)
20. Journey (-1)
The Smithereens-. Anther alternative fuzz band of thelate '80's and early '90's in the vein, but a bit more punkish than other fuzz alternative bands like the Pumpkins and Weezer. Never charted well, but had some solid tunes in the era..... Pretty likely you've heard one of these.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DHYkYYikewU (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DHYkYYikewU)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5LwjD8z2mOg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5LwjD8z2mOg)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AO4C70gfQ3g (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AO4C70gfQ3g)
-
March 1990 list
1. Rush (No change)
2. Tom Petty (No change)
3. Neil Young (No change)
4. Foreigner (No change)
5. Yes (+1)
6. Boston (-1)
7. Styx (No change)
8. Eddie Money (No change)
9. Heart (No change)
10. Eagles (No change)
11. Led Zeppelin (+1)
12. Bryan Adams (-1)
13. Smithereens (+3)
14. Cars (+3)
15. Fleetwood Mac (-2)
16. Van Halen (-1)
17. Toto (-3)
18. Dire Straits (No change)
19. Bob Seger (No change)
20. Journey (No change)
Another '90's band that took a much different trajectory was Weezer. Weezer has built up a legendary legacy. 15 albums between 1994-2021, and all but one charted in the top 25. Way too many familiar songs to provide samples. So I'll leave with maybe the most familiar.
Great music.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kemivUKb4f4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kemivUKb4f4)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HL_WvOly7mY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HL_WvOly7mY)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TZYaHTsQuas (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TZYaHTsQuas)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aQbXhdJYqhE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aQbXhdJYqhE)
-
Some of my favorite songs. This is one of the finest progressive rock albums ever made.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A1jeVdUo1-I
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fsmHXCKQzXE
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8FvyVkfM8aA
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c-TYPObvSHo
-
April and May 1990 list (only 3 left to go)
1. Rush (No change)
2. Tom Petty (No change)
3. Neil Young (No change)
4. Foreigner (No change)
5. Yes (No change)
6. Boston (No change)
7. Styx (No change)
8. Eddie Money (No change)
9. Heart (No change)
10. Eagles (No change)
11. Led Zeppelin (No change)
12. Fleetwood Mac (+3)
13. Smithereens (No change)
14. Cars (No change)
15. Bryan Adams (-3)
16. Van Halen (No change)
17. Toto (No change)
18. Dire Straits (No change)
19. Bob Seger (No change)
20. Journey (No change)
Collective Soul-
Here is one of the greatest '90's bands along with Nirvanna, Weezer and Pumpkins.... Somewhat a slighter pop tinge to them, but still no doubt, these guys rock. Strong catalog, 7 #1 singles......that almost everybody remembers......
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_m0bI82Rz_k (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_m0bI82Rz_k)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rwrazYUwqQI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rwrazYUwqQI)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6exsatE-DUk (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6exsatE-DUk)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hFebAtN7hhk (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hFebAtN7hhk)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FoL0z6dn2q8 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FoL0z6dn2q8)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nymV5xKWPx4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nymV5xKWPx4)
-
June and July 1990 list
1. Rush (No change)
2. Neil Young (+1)
3. Tom Petty (-1)
4. Foreigner (No change)
5. Eddie Money (+3)
6. Smithereens (+7)
7. Boston (-1)
8. Styx (-1)
9. Yes (-4)
10. Heart (-1)
11. Eagles (-1)
12. Led Zeppelin (-1)
13. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
14. Cars (No change)
15. Van Halen (+1)
16. Bryan Adams (-1)
17. Dire Straits (+1)
18. Toto (-1)
19. Bob Seger (No change)
20. Journey (No change)
More '90's highlights- Metallica
Never was a real fan of Metallica, but there is no doubting their influence on hard rock and metal after they hit the music scene. They had (have) jaw vibrating stuff, and are pretty much synonymous with what an example of a modern metal band is (at least that generation)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CD-E-LDc384 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CD-E-LDc384)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tAGnKpE4NCI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tAGnKpE4NCI)
-
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KCznjGO6Vh0&list=RDKCznjGO6Vh0&start_radio=1
-
August 1990 List-
1. Rush (No change)
2. Tom Petty (+1)
3. Neil Young (-1)
4. Foreigner (No change)
5. Eddie Money (No change)
6. Smithereens (No change)
7. Boston (No change)
8. Styx (No change)
9. Yes (No change)
10. Eagles (+1)
11. Heart (-1)
12. Led Zeppelin (No change)
13. Cars (+1)
14. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
15. Toto (+3)
16. Bryan Adams (No change)
17. Van Halen (-2)
18. Dire Straits (-1)
19. Bob Seger (No change)
20. Journey (No change)
-
September- December 1990 and final (1973-1990) list
1. Rush (No change)
2. Foreigner (+2)
3. Tom Petty (-1)
4. Neil Young (-1)
5. Boston (+2)
6. Styx (+2)
7. Eddie Money (-2)
8. Smithereens (-2)
9. Yes (No change)
10. Eagles (No change)
11. Led Zeppelin (+1)
12. Heart (-1)
13. Cars (No change)
14. Toto (+1)
15. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
16. Bryan Adams (No change)
17. Van Halen (No change)
18. Dire Straits (No change)
19. Journey (+1)
20. Bob Seger (-1)
I want to thank everyone for allowing me to indulge, and walk through memory lane for 17 years of music history, back when I liked to to do a log of how my musical tastes ran. You probably noticed that at the end, there really wasn't much movement in these lists, and I was noticing that too. I really didn't have the extra time at the time at this juncture, and by 1990 I thinking it was a pointless exercise. Not even remotely because I quit liking music. That never ended.
Funny, how growing up changes your perspective. My final concert was at the urging of my son. So in 1995, I took him to a Def Leppard concert. Night was a diaster, as I had to explain things that really shouldn't have to be explained to a 10 year old. The behavior, the deafening sound, the hassles...... Never thought I would think a concert was an annoyance Yes, I had realized that the 1995 Catfish was a whole lot different than the 1975 version.
This exercise also brought back so memories of music that I hadn't heard since I was making these list. Folks, this is nostalgia as it's best , because if you were like most of us, you had an 8 track blaring out of your Craig Power Play 100% while driving. More than a Feeling at 105 decibels, yeah.... These were the Soundtracks of our Youth, and those memories are preserved and will last forever.
For a closing tune for this exercise? Remember the event where I sang the Ramones song "I Wanna be Your Boyfriend" to my first serious girl friend in a highly public place? Well, this what was playing in my car, when that relationship ended. When we hear songs, they are just memory jars to the deep recesses in our mind. And that is not a bad thing.
Not one better than this one to document "The End"!!!!!!!!.....
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aKhkgn9GN9o (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aKhkgn9GN9o)
-
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Imf43JMFNJY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Imf43JMFNJY)
-
Classic Rock Album of the Day..... Led Zeppelin IV. (1971). *****
IMO- From front to back the greatest Rock and Roll Album ever made. I'll start with. a statement.... When Stairway to Heaven is the 6th best song out of 8 on an LP.... You kind of get an idea of the magnitude of greatness on this LP. This was the zenith of Zeppelin's songwriting prowess, playing, and presitge. Even the pencil dicked critics lauded the work. Even Physical Graffiti, and it's legend doesn't have as many good tunes at this masterpiece.
The album starts with Plant's Hey Hey Mama, scream that intertwines with Pages and JPJ's solid bass line. Finally all culminating into an hell breaks lose free for all at the end. At this very moment you realize that Led Zeppelin III was just a phase.
Track 2, with Rock and Roll is the showpiece for Bonham's bombastic drumming. Pure classic, and one of Zeppelin's most covered songs, including Heart. This is one is the second most played on FM Classic Rock stations.
Battle of Evermore is one of the most hypnotic melodic works of the group ever. Beautiful mandolin with stringed dubbing and overdubbing that gives the tune an etheral feel (especially the end). This one has to be one of Corbe's favorite. Wow... Man
STH - Along with Free Bird, maybe the most (over) played songs on Classic Rock stations. As I mentioned earlier, to me this is on of the weaker cuts on the LP. Which don't get me wrong, it is every bit the classic that it deserves, but when particular cut gets this level of overplay, it loses favor. At least in my book.
Flipping the album to Side 2-
1st track of Side two starts with a bluesy like rukus with Misty Mountain Hop. Maybe the really only straightforward rock tune on the album, with no member domnating, but as a full 4 tandem, this song freakin' rocks. Yeah, it might now be the '70's but Plant does kind of still give a shout out and ode to Hippiedom.
2nd and 3rd Tracks - Four Sticks and Going to California.- Would be excellent songs for other bands, but this is the only letdowns of this pure classic. Plant sings another Hippy song with the latter. And IMO that didn't age well as the decade progressed.
Album ends with what I feel is the greatest song in the entire Led Zeppelin Catalog..... "When the Levee Breaks". This is an absolutely mesmerizng Tour de' Blast of epic proportions,. Form the the crazy harmonica to the crashing beats and cymbal crashes. The effect of Bonhams low echo effect is amazing and unique to this piece. This song just screams classic. Best rock blues remake of all time....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zl-CriM6vx0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zl-CriM6vx0)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LlDZ0AFN5C0&t=187s (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LlDZ0AFN5C0&t=187s)
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Classic Album of the Day- Tom Petty - Full Moon Fever. (1989). *****
Tom Petty was a legend. He was a Traveling Wilbury along with Bob Dylan, Roy Orbison, George Harrison, and Jeff Lynne. He even had half of the Beatles peforming on some his albums, like this one. TP had massively prolific, consistent, and incredibly talented career that included some of the most rocking, innovative, and moving stuff. From Breakdown to U Get Me High, Petty cranked out hits like a slot machine for nearly 40 years. Also, got to give props to maybe the most underated and unhearlded sidekicks in Rock history, Mike Campbell. He has at least a stake of a good 1/3 of the Petty sound with the best modern slide guitar, and shredding licks.
Losing Petty in '15 was massive loss for Rock music. Maybe the best songwriter of the past two generations, and just a guy/band that when you bought an album/8 track/cassette/CD/Download, you knew there was going to 90-100% chance you were not going to be disappointed..
But now to his greatest work ..... 1989's Full Moon Fever. And I as kind of interesting side note. This was my first CD purchase. So I guess my CD collection goes back to 1989
Full Moon Fever was TP's first work without the Heartbreakers, though he course employed Campbell. Other greats like George Harrison, Jeff Lynne, It was his greatest selling non-compliation album, at 6X. Note, I. will rank the songs in preference in blue.
Side 1-
Free Fallin' - Slow roll, rocker with great hooks. Song pushes the mundane hypocricy of life in CA., or as I heard someway was a sublimal ode to falling to he excesses to the LA scene, drugs, etc. Great song, got very much play in the MTV era, with its 50's/'80's switcharoo in video imagery. 3
I Won't Back Down- Heard many many times sinces its release, for those who give the middle finger to an opressive force. If you have listened to rock music in form or fashion in the past 40 years, I really don't have to explain this songe to you, or what it sounds like. Video was iconic, in that it had Petty, Campbell, Ringo, George Harrison, and Jeff Lynne. Yeah, I'd say that was a pretty well known group. :cool: 2
Love is a Long Road- This is the real sleeper on the LP, and my favorite among then non-hits. Some of Campbell's best slide guitar work of the mid '80's. Outside Runnin Down a Dream, the most rocking song on the LP. 6
Face in the Crowd- Filler in my book, though I do have friends that love this soft rocker piece. Not much here... but just wait for the next song.... 12
Runnin' Down a Dream- Greatest song on his greatest album- This is TP at his high energy chaotic rocking best. Get your air guitar tuned, this one rocks...... On could argue that the end of this song was Campbell's best solo with his collaboration with Petty. 1
Hello CD Listeners- Hilarious, account and point in time when CD's were just now being part of mainstream music sales. Tom Petty wanted to make sure that those who had the CD know that those who had the LP would be having to flip the LP to listen to Side 2.
Side 2-
Feel a Whole Lot Better- No one can dispute that the Byrds were obviously the biggest influence on Petty than any other earlier rocker. TP used Byrdish styles a whole lot more in the earlier part of his career, say especially the 1st 3-4 albums. Here he resurrects that with meter and style, that like what I use to say....... Petty plays The Byrds than the Byrds play. Good song. 7
Yer so Bad- Soft rocking Ballad-isa ditty that Petty plays in jest to give his listeners a laugh. Fun song though.... 11
Depending On You- Another Soft rocker that rotates with a harder spin with good hooks and guitar progessions. 9
The Apartment Song- Love TP's infusion of a little rock-a-billy in this short and catchy tune. Petty really starts showing off his versatility at this point. 8
Alright For Now- Slow beautiul ballad with guitar only. Very simple, but they way they intertwine the acoustically runs just works well. 10
Mind with a Heart of It's Own- TP adds some more rockabilly style, and it again it works well. I think in this short one Petty take mundane and nonsensical and build a really cool song around of it. Petty may have thought he was adding filler here, but is sure worked for me. 5
Zombie Zoo- Loved this tune. Just more of the nonsenensical of Side 2- Though I feel Petty had some commentary around the party scene. Song in its pure essence, is the perfect hooked Petty song. 4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aNMA3T030B4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aNMA3T030B4)
editied to repair dead link
-
Last night Canada allowed themselves to be thrown into the depths and grip of a totalitarian despot. My heart goes out to all for fought, and lost the battle. May you in the end.... win the war, and see Trudeau in the chains he shackled you with.
Thought it was interesting that with all the live feeds going on up there, I did not hear any of Rush (Canada's Greatest Band) Music. And there were several in their catalog that had Libertarian slants, bends, and themes........
This post is dedicated to our friends to the North.....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pMAJmJCG2tI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pMAJmJCG2tI)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rj1HacZ4ht4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rj1HacZ4ht4)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w5jwxrTqoEA&t=356s (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w5jwxrTqoEA&t=356s)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8_D0wkLyCXE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8_D0wkLyCXE)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-PmmMG-6mwo (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-PmmMG-6mwo)
-
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zl-CriM6vx0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zl-CriM6vx0)
The kid didn't take the advice, but played Physical Graffiti instead.
-
RIP Foo Fighters Drummer Taylor Hawkins. Died yesterday at age 50.
Got to feel for Grohl...... he has seen enough dying early of band mates than should be endured.
Here are my two Foo songs.....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1VQ_3sBZEm0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1VQ_3sBZEm0)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vbe_T5vDR9I (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vbe_T5vDR9I)
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I started preparing these list in July 1973, then December 1973 and pretty much monthly afterwards for several years....
July 1973
================
1. Alice Cooper Band
2. Uriah Heep
3. Black Sabbath
4. Three Dog Night
5. Grand Funk Railroad
6. Chicago
7. Led Zeppelin
8. Black Oak Arkansas
9. Deep Purple
10. The Guess Who
11. Rare Earth
12. Allman Brothers Band
13. Rolling Stones
14. Yes
15. Eric Clapton
16. The Who
17. Jethro Tull
18. J. Geils Band
19. Elton John
20. Edgar Winter Group
Albums bought:
Uriah Heep- Live
Alice Cooper - Billion Dollar Babies
================================
The Live ABC "In Concert" event really blew me away with that era of Alice Cooper. For those into history, You Tube- "Elected" for one of what I consider one of the earliest Music Videos of that format. Not that I disliked the "hippy formula" that worked in rock for more than 5 years butt....... Hearing acts like Alice Cooper and Black Sabbath seemed ground breaking and refreshing
@catfish1957
Was and still am a HUGE Uriah Heep fan. Used to get high in my bedroom and turn the stereo up so loud you could year it across the street. Come to find out,my mother and father even liked the Heep,and would sometimes ask me to play it.
Also played a lot of southern rock/blues stuff like the AlLman Brothers,The Marshall Tucker Band,John Mayall,and the greatest band of all time,Pink Floyd.
-
@catfish1957
Was and still am a HUGE Uriah Heep fan. Used to get high in my bedroom and turn the stereo up so loud you could year it across the street. Come to find out,my mother and father even liked the Heep,and would sometimes ask me to play it.
Also played a lot of southern rock/blues stuff like the AlLman Brothers,The Marshall Tucker Band,John Mayall,and the greatest band of all time,Pink Floyd.
@sneakypete
I always considered Uriah Heep one of the great "forgotten" '70's bands. The fact UH created both Demons and Wizards and Magicians Birthday in one calendar year (1972) is a true baraometer of their proflic songwriting nature. If you know much about the band, your understand that they went through some seismic band lineup changes that killed any chance of continuity of longevity. Not sure what dynamics were going on in the band to cause that tensison or dissension..... But for Uriah Heep, it was quite a ride in the early '70's.
Pink Floyd? Oh yes.. that is greatness. As a musician, I put them and three other bands who had a level of virtuosoity that was never equalled.
In no certain order....
Yes
Pink Floyd
Rush
Emerson Lake and Palmer.
But back to UH.... My favorite in their categlog.....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lA4DFOCwnwk (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lA4DFOCwnwk)
-
@sneakypete
I always considered Uriah Heep one of the great "forgotten" '70's bands. The fact UH created both Demons and Wizards and Magicians Birthday in one calendar year (1972) is a true baraometer of their proflic songwriting nature. If you know much about the band, your understand that they went through some seismic band lineup changes that killed any chance of continuity of longevity. Not sure what dynamics were going on in the band to cause that tensison or dissension..... But for Uriah Heep, it was quite a ride in the early '70's.
Pink Floyd? Oh yes.. that is greatness. As a musician, I put them and three other bands who had a level of virtuosoity that was never equalled.
In no certain order....
Yes
Pink Floyd
Rush
Emerson Lake and Palmer.
But back to UH.... My favorite in their categlog.....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lA4DFOCwnwk (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lA4DFOCwnwk)
@catfish1957
Huh? They were still touring in the 80's. Maybe even more recent than that. Their lead singer died or quit,but the voice of the guy that replaced him was just as good.
I must have seen them in concert 3 or 4 times,but then I allowed stupid stuff like steady jobs and steady women ruin my life,and stopped going to concerts.
It was a wild ride while it lasted,though.
Lynard Skynard was another of my favorites.
-
@catfish1957
Huh? They were still touring in the 80's. Maybe even more recent than that. Their lead singer died or quit,but the voice of the guy that replaced him was just as good.
I must have seen them in concert 3 or 4 times,but then I allowed stupid stuff like steady jobs and steady women ruin my life,and stopped going to concerts.
It was a wild ride while it lasted,though.
Here are the number of lineup changes in the '70's alone
Guitar- 0
Bass- 5
Keyboard-1
Percussion- 5 (In true Spinal Tap Fashion :cool:)
Vocal- 1
Tough to get a consistent sound with this many changes. Losing Byron as singer was probably the biggest loss. Few bands outside Van Halen and Journey have survived that lineup change.
-
I'm an early era Vietnam vet @catfish1957 and to be totally honest with you, that list you posted above is composed almost entirely of what I not so lovingly called "hippie bands" . I never got into that until the Wilburys changed that somewhat.
@Bigun
I had a SF friend that was a SFC E-7 in 1968 that was a HUGE "acid rock" fan. Most SF NCO's were primarily country and western fans,though.
Unless of course the band had strippers. We were all huge fans of bands with strippers.
-
September- December 1990 and final (1973-1990) list
1. Rush (No change)
2. Foreigner (+2)
3. Tom Petty (-1)
4. Neil Young (-1)
5. Boston (+2)
6. Styx (+2)
7. Eddie Money (-2)
8. Smithereens (-2)
9. Yes (No change)
10. Eagles (No change)
11. Led Zeppelin (+1)
12. Heart (-1)
13. Cars (No change)
14. Toto (+1)
15. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
16. Bryan Adams (No change)
17. Van Halen (No change)
18. Dire Straits (No change)
19. Journey (+1)
20. Bob Seger (-1)
I want to thank everyone for allowing me to indulge, and walk through memory lane for 12 years of music history, back when I liked to to do a log of how my musical tastes ran. You probably noticed that at the end, there really wasn't much movement in these lists, and I was noticing that too. I really didn't have the extra time at the time at this juncture, and by 1990 I thinking it was a pointless exercise. Not even remotely because I quit liking music. That never ended.
Funny, how growing up changes your perspective. My final concert was at the urging of my son. So in 1995, I took him to a Def Leppard concert. Night was a diaster, as I had to explain things that really shouldn't have to be explained to a 10 year old. The behavior, the deafening sound, the hassles...... Never thought I would think a concert was an annoyance Yes, I had realized that the 1995 Catfish was a whole lot different than the 1975 version.
This exercise also brought back so memories of music that I hadn't heard since I was making these list. Folks, this is nostalgia as it's best , because if you were like most of us, you had an 8 track blaring out of your Craig Power Play 100% while driving. More than a Feeling at 105 decibels, yeah.... These were the Soundtracks of our Youth, and those memories are preserved and will last forever.
For a closing tune for this exercise? Remember the event where I sang the Ramones song "I Wanna be Your Boyfriend" to my first serious girl friend in a highly public place? Well, this what was playing in my car, when that relationship ended. When we hear songs, they are just memory jars to the deep recesses in our mind. And that is not a bad thing.
Not one better than this one to document "The End"!!!!!!!!.....
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aKhkgn9GN9o (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aKhkgn9GN9o)
August 1990 List-
1. Rush (No change)
2. Tom Petty (+1)
3. Neil Young (-1)
4. Foreigner (No change)
5. Eddie Money (No change)
6. Smithereens (No change)
7. Boston (No change)
8. Styx (No change)
9. Yes (No change)
10. Eagles (+1)
11. Heart (-1)
12. Led Zeppelin (No change)
13. Cars (+1)
14. Fleetwood Mac (-1)
15. Toto (+3)
16. Bryan Adams (No change)
17. Van Halen (-2)
18. Dire Straits (-1)
19. Bob Seger (No change)
20. Journey (No change)
I'm an early era Vietnam vet @catfish1957 and to be totally honest with you, that list you posted above is composed almost entirely of what I not so lovingly called "hippie bands" . I never got into that until the Wilburys changed that somewhat.
@catfish1957
I always considered Bob Seeger to be the man that saved the world from Disco,and brought back rock and roll while doing it.
-
Bob Seger - 1975, Live
Traveling Man / Beautiful Loser
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=attPbjuxli0)
-
Bob Seger - 1975, Live
Traveling Man / Beautiful Loser
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=attPbjuxli0)
@bob Seeger,the man that saved the world from the clutches of Disco.
-
@bob Seeger,the man that saved the world from the clutches of Disco.
I never appreciated Bob Seeger until about three years ago.
-
I never appreciated Bob Seeger until about three years ago.
@Gefn
The first time I ever heard his music was in VN in late 68. Another soldier from Detroit had a tape of one of his concerts.
It was his "Against the Wind" album that came out on 76 that was the death of disco,and the return of real music.
He dropped out of the music biz at one point to be home to raise his children,and released a new album maybe a year or so ago. IIRC,it didn't do very well,but I don't know why. I only heard a part of one song on the radio,and that was it.
Maybe it was because he didn't have a big record company behind him pushing it,and he had been out of music for so long there was virtually a whole generation that didn't know who he was?
-
I never appreciated Bob Seeger until about three years ago.
As far as Michigan musicians go, I still prefer Ted Nugent and Iggy Pop.
Cry For Love (1986)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9LMwqOMTl0M)
-
Somehow this one got by me 30 years ago. Fantastic tune, with pretty much a reunion of new and old Yes personnel.
Double props to Howe for letting Rabin take the lead guitar on this fine song. Talent at this level, has got to have some ego clashing issues.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rzD4m17exRA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rzD4m17exRA)
-
(https://img-9gag-fun.9cache.com/photo/aBn4OZx_460s.jpg)
-
Classic Album of the Day- Rush-2112. (1976) *****
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wPpQWyMjQ-s (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wPpQWyMjQ-s)
There is no argument that Rush did not invent Prog Music. However, in 1976 this trio of Canadians maybe gave the genre is most powerful redefinition in said genre's history. Rush in their 1st 2 albums pretty much went with a Zep formula of hard rock tunes that provided some minor hits and a strong but finite following. In album No. 3 (early 1976 Caress of Steel) they jumped into the progressive forum but with dismal critical and commercial success. Even us most ardent Rush fans have to admit that there is a hard and uneven feel to the sound. It seemed to channel Yes, but was forced and IMO mostly unlistenable (with a few exceptions). BUT.... the seeds were planted of future greatness.
Rush documentaries have stated that this bomb put the band on notice, and that the next one would be a make or break LP. The band thumbed their nose at the record companies, and under pressure created this masterpiece. This album's legacy is remarkable, and in almost every compliation of greatest Prog albums of all time...... This one makes their Top 10 List.
Side 1- 2112- A 7 part (20 minute) masterpiece that Neil Peart composed lyrics from aspiration of Ayn Rand's Fountain Head and Anthem. The song's theme is around a dystopian society that dictates all thought and actions of their minions. A group of hierarchal Priests (The Solar Federation) control society, and expect the population to bow and obey. The hero of the story accidentaly finds himself in something like a cave, and then finds an ancient guitar. He randomly strums, then tunes the device and suddenly gets excited with sounds it makes as music. In his excitement he brings it to the attention of the Priests who poo-poo the concept as useless relics of an earlier era. Our hero gets despondent, and it is perceived that this has triggerd a revolt. The Solar Federation puts the thumb down on the insurgents, and extol at the end after the attack..... THAT THEY ARE IN CONTROL......
Even back then I had a strong political bent, I considered this more like a Sci-Fi story than an important message. 2112 today has so much more meaning and value to us than ever. The dystopia that Peart/ Rand warn are closer than we think. Granted Peart softened his Libertarain stances later in life, after decades of left shaming from the communist music industry, and his own personal tragedies.
Musically, 2112 has such a extreme different sound that doesn't even remotely resemble the 1st three albums. All 3 members hone their skills and are at least twice as good muscially on every angle. This was also the point that Mr. Peart started getting noticed for his percussion prowess, and among the best at his trade. Geddy Lee's voice seemed fuller and less shrill. He no longer wanted to be a Robert Plant clone, and brought rangeand tone that augmented the music beautifully. All 3 members are jaw dropping fabulous in working the tunes in a powerful manner. If you have never listened to this album.... Do yourself a favor and at least listen to Side 1.
Side 2-
Where Side 1 was in Full Concept Mode, Side 2 focused on more traditonal fare.
Passage to Bangkok- Rush had 19 albums, and this one single tune is the only one that was drug themed over that 40 year period. Great Lifeson solo at the end. A fan favorite of the 420 set.
The Twilight Zone- Geddy goes high octave on the band's tribute to this classic TV show. Maybe the weakest tune on the LP, but still a decent song.
Lessons- Besides 2112, my favorite cut from the LP. Beautiful chordal progressions, intertwined with alternating heavy riffs. Peart's least complex part on the LP. But the way Lee/Lifeson blend their parts? Fantastic. I know other Rush fans like this tune less, but in my book... A pure gem.
Tears- Was blown away how two consecutive songs so beautiful could be so different on a melodic level.. From Uplifting to meloncolly on the turn of a dime. This is one of very few of what I would call "rock ballads" in Rush's extensive catalog.
Something For Nothing- Just to make sure prior Rush fans were made happy, this tune was included. It's style would make you swear it came from "Fly By Night". IMO- 3rd best song on the LP. A very rocking tune, and an add to many Rush concert play lists in the late '70's.
The band always called this album their piviotal turning point in their career. No longer did they have to bend to the whims of record company executives, and now had full artistic control over their musical content. Without 2112 there would not be no Moving Pictures, Permanent Waves, or Farwell to Kings.
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Classic Album of the Day- Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band- Against the Wind. (1980) ****
(https://www.udiscovermusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Bob-Seger-Against-The-Wind-album-cover-820.jpg)
Tonight's 1980 gem is from legendary rocker Bob Seger. There are more critically acclaimed LP's in the Seger catalog, but apparently many many fans including me found this to be his best masterpiece. Seger had better songs in his career, but the deal with this album is that there is not one single bad track on the entire album. This IMO may be the best consistently good album in rock history. Absolutely No filler!!!! Themes of blantant bar room rocking to deep self reflection and thought hit the listener like a 2 X 4. For those interested, I have done the tough task of ranking the tracks as well. In red.
Side 1
The Horizontal Bop- 1st Bar Boogie Boogie kind of rocker that harkens back to some of Seger's '60's sound. Not cerebral like other tunes on the LP, but great foot tapping stuff. 10
You'll Accompany Me- Big Hit charting #.14 nationally. Great Ballad, hitting on all cylinders around relational risk. Song of hope and love. Maybe the most souful voicing too 3
Her Strut- Hardest rocking tune on the album. Love the bass/ rhythm line on this one. Back to non-cerebral and bar room style Seeing the trend? I don't think Bob Seger meant for it to be an accident. 8
No Man's Land- My favorite song on the LP. Seger is a poet laureate in this tour de force of verbal imagery and metaphorical beauty of describing the difficulty of making life changing decisons. On Side 2- Fire Lake does the same exact thing around the topic of death. Both these sngs throw me into deep thought when I hear them. 1
Long Twin Silver Line- Back to Boogie-boogie. A Seger screaming tune kind of hinter to his early 70's stuff. You are through with side 1, and have already a half an album knowing you are listening to an epic classic. 7
Side 2-
Against the Wind- Title track, and maybe the most recognizable tune on the album. heartful reminisicing, and having to deal with adversity. Song charted #5. Not my favorite on then LP, but obviously super sound nice tune- 5
Good For Me- Wow... Easy in my top 5 Seger picks- Soulful innovative approach bringing style of a black church choir. Powerful Love song to say the least. 4
Betty Lou's Getting Out Tonight- '50's style boogie that sounds like something Jerry Lee Lewis would croon. Mindless stuff, but who cares, it rocks. Again Seger keeps the listener on their toes by alternating the themes between feast for the mind and feet. This what helps makes this album special. 9
Fire Lake- Metaphorically painting a picture of death. Not sure Seger really intended Fire Lake to include the fire of hell. I sure don't want to play those 8's and Aces....... Great great tune. 2
Shining Bright- Seger ends the album on beatifully positive upbeat note. Maybe covering so much death and despair made him guilty.... :cool: 6
In any case, back in the day when you were young, the $6 bucks you spent on an album was a pretty expensive investment of a kid's entertainment $. I sure as hell thought I got my money's worth on this one
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@catfish1957
It's "boogie",not "boogle",and "boggie woggie",not "boogle woogle".
In fact,this is the first time in my life I have ever seen/heard of boogle and boogle woogle.
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@catfish1957
It's "boogie",not "boogle",and "boggie woggie",not "boogle woogle".
In fact,this is the first time in my life I have ever seen/heard of boogle and boogle woogle.
I'll pan your late night typos too, next time. Boggie Woggie not boogle woogle? Nice try.... :silly:
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RUSH - The Necromancer (final 4 min)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7omle21cL3s#t=520s)
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RUSH - The Best I Can
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3rluWcMcpDQ)
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RUSH - A Farewell to Kings
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eV-5iNu6Sd8)
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RUSH - A Farewell to Kings
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eV-5iNu6Sd8)
Farewell To Kings is an absolute classic. I had a dorm roomate who played Xanadu almost 24/7 for an entire semester. That overplay haunts me to this day.
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Classic Album of the Day- AC-DC- Back in Black (1980). ****
(Parental Warning- With AC DC there will always be explicit, graphic and extreme refereneces to sex, drugs, and rock and roll)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-fR2rrmw3I (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-fR2rrmw3I)
First a preface. I have never said that AC-DC were prime musicans, and I readily admit prefering talented prog-acts. OTOH, listening to this band is nothing but joy. Yeah, they loud woofer thumping 3 chord progressions, but they are don't in such a innovative way, I do have to say that this IS the ULTIMATE party band. They ever rock and how.
Back in Black is pretty much accepted has their best work. Both by critics and fandom What is so mindblowing, is that this work was done in what have great grief. Almost no one would have predicted that after losing your great singer to death, that 3 months later this level of work could be created. I personally believed they were inspired by Bon Scott's channelled ghost. What this and many other classics I like to cover in my exercise here, are those that are consisent through out, with little or no filler. Back in Black certainly meets that criteria. Kudos to newcomer Brian Johnson, who didn't miss a beat with band, and help give a different edge to the band's sound for what would become decades. This IMO is one of the greatest hard rock albums ever made. And one that I love is so Un-PC Un-Woke.... An album like this could not be made in 2022 unless you are a rap artist. You just gotta love it.
So with nothing further, here is a rundown of this 1980 classic, which again I have ranked the songs in preference in blue
Side 1-
Hells Bells- Almost every fan got chills with the 12+ 1 Church Bells at the start of this intro to the album. There are all kind of conspiracy thoughts on what "13" met with hell, and whatever, but there is no doubt this song was their ultimate ode to their biggest "hell-raiser" in the band. Bon Scott supposedly was quite a scrapper, and was not a good choice for a bar fist fight. I think the Young brothers did a nice job in this tribute. 6
Shoot to Thrill- Great tune. Johnson's first vocal foray that he is an acceptable replacement for Scott. First of many of the "bad boy themes" on this work. End of tune has great dueling of Johnson's screaming, and some of Angus Young's best fret work on the LP 2
What Do You Do For Money Honey- Band really gets into the sexual aspects of their thinking on this song. Basically a slam on gold digging parasites, that they probably constantly encountered in the exploits. More wizardry from Angus. Guy was on fire on this album. 4
Give the Dog a Bone- Never said AC-DC was into subtlety. :cool: Citing the lyrics on this one might get one banned on sexual content. But like so much of this album... Good stuff. No filler on this one folks. 3
Let Me Put My Love into You- Never Said AC-DC was into subtlety (Part II)- Agressive sexual tendencies in these lyrics would get crazy condemnation nowadyas. 5
Side 2-
Back In Black- 1st of 2 tunes that got the greatest airplay back in 1980, and both of these today get significant classic rock airplay. Song, which everyone thought was strange being added to Side 2 makes all the sense in the world. I beleive that it was intended to show..... We aren't dead, and we will be a force to be reckoned with. Great integration for a full metal song, more than any other tune on the album. 7
You Shook Me All Night Long- Back to the sexual theme....Easily the most recognizable and biggest hit of the LP. Rates somewhat lower for me, and with other works that seem to get extreme over play. To give a good example of how ridiculous the overplay got? I have added a tune(clip below) that make the dumbest moment in music history. 9
Have A Drink on Me- Way under-appreciated track, and my favorite. All the members click and I love how the song cressendos toward the end while taking another swig. :cool: 1
Shake a Leg- This is 1980's response to the Stone's Street Fighting Man. Rock and Roll Man......... 8
Rock and Roll A'int Noise Pollution- Not a bad tune, but maybe the weakest of an absolutely fantastic album. 10
Aren't too many albums that do this well of a job of summation of the Rock and Roll excesses. If you are having a party any time soon. This one is always a great one to add for a listen.
And as promised, here is maybe the dumbest moment in Music history, and IMO a slap at AC-DC's legacy,
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=21iW_YMLvmU (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=21iW_YMLvmU)
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Classic Album of the Day- Boston - (Self Titled). *****
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTA0ImUMk-g (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTA0ImUMk-g)
This is an interesting pick in the context, I have previously reviewed what I thought were classics that consistent through out the LP. In Boston's Self Titled work in 1976, this is not entirely the case. Don't get me wrong, this is maybe the most played work that I listened to in my entire youth. I wore out 3 albums and (4) 8 Tracks during the late '70's and early '80's. More than A Feeling is my favorite rock anthem of all time, and I literally played it 10,000's of times at 110 decibles. Piece of Mind is right up there too. Then the drop off comences. Here is the rub..... Boston's waillng riffs and wonderful vocals mask the fact that their love ballads suck. To this day, I have never understood how they thought that formula of junking up half their albums with that junk, is beyond me. And they continued that trend their entire damned career. Just think what would have become of Boston, if they had stuck with what worked.
To me this was the golden age of guitar wizardry. Tom Scholz and EVH epitomized the change in that standard chording progression and solos were not absolute formulas anymore. They showed that the entire tune could revolve around guitar melodic schemes. Scholz didn't have the abilty of self promotion EVH had, nor did he lead his band into a catalog that gave them a lasting legacy that VH had.
Still this is one of the best selling debut albums of all time, at 17M units. It also remained on the charts 132 weeks. No doubting its greatness and legacy.
So here is the rundown of the tunes, as in the past I have ranked them in blue.
Side 1
More Than a Feeling- When I first heard this guitar tour de force of galatic riffs in 1976, I was blown away. From Scholz' mastery of guitar to Delp's fine vocals..... This was my theme song of the Late '70's. I spent countless hours blasting the tune out of my truck from my Craig Power Play at 110 decibles. My friends knew when I was coming. I know this syncopated riff classic was swiped from the James Gang's book of riffs (Tend my Garden, but I didn't care. 1
Piece of Mind- Another fabulously great song by Boston. Maybe the greatest harmony in the late '70's The last minue of the synched guitar work in layered progression is still a feat that seems near to impossible to replicate. 2
Foreplay/Longtime- Another excellent excellent one from a Side 1 that was mouth droppingly great. Wow.... juwt wow. 3
Now I issue a challenge ..... Look at yours and your friends copy of this LP. I'll bet money side 1 is a helluva lot more worn than Side 2.
That was no accident, as you will see.
Side 2
Rock and Roll Band- I knew it couldn't last. Pedestiran sounding tune that was pointless on content and inspiration, Who gives a shit about your record contracts, and rise to power. To me this whole side is strange, and the fact they spent their entire creative capital in one bang was crazy. 6
Smokin'- Best on Side 2- Straight forward standard rock tune, and pretty in tune with all the smoke filled cars that were cruising in the day. Best keyboard on the LP, if you are into that part of Boston's repitoire . 4
Hitch a Ride- Ugh!!!! When Boston does ballads.... They suck. Nice keyboard solo work at the mid point of this dong does not redeem this cut. 7
Something About You- Decent stuff. Not to Side 1 standards though. Also at this point you are getting somewhat of a 1 dimensional feel to this band's sound 5
Let Me Take You Home Tonight- Another sappy crappy Boston Ballad. An awful ending to an album that started on a pace to be one of the greatest of all time. 8
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Classic Album of the Day- Black Sabbath Volume 4. ****
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU99kUnWW3E (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU99kUnWW3E)
First a disclaimer.... I am not a fan of heavy metal, or even really like the genre, (especially '80's and '90's froth) But, in my early years this particular band had so unique a sound and were so good at it, I was a big big fan. I will also go on record and say that Sabbath's legacy can not be understated. Probably no musical act in history besides them can claim that single handledly invented a genre.
My choice to share, will not be likely the choice of others. The seeds were planted with Self-Titled, and Paranoid. But with Master of Reality and Volume 4, the formula and sound was so honed down to a craft that you knew that these boys from Birmingham were really on to something be. So it almost came down to a coin flip between Master of Reality and Vol. 4. To me, they are equally good. So the coin flip went to Volume 4, which was released in 1972. And as usual, I will rank the cuts in blue.
Side 1-
Wheels of Confusion- Before getting to much further into the catalog, it needs to be mentioned that this album famously was created at the height of Black Sabbath drug use. One could almost sumise that every song had to consider tinges of that aspect. Lyrics on Wheels was no different. Though at face value, the some my appear retrospective, it also could come across as an acid trip. Needless to say, on this cut, and almost every other one on this album, Iommi's work is spectacular. Ozzy's voice is also at maybe its most strong in the entire catalog. -3
Tomorrow's Dream- Good drumming by Ward, which from what I read was a stretch. They say he was so strung out, and near overdose, that he was not functonal. Song has a tad of a native american vibe to it too. Song really rocks though, -4
Changes- I have said I have really never been much into rock ballads. But when Sabbath did them, they seemed surreal considering all the mayhem that surrounds them. The melotron work in the tune also makes this one errily beautiful. Could be almost a lull in the action tune in a Thrasher Movie -5
FX- I couple this song with Supernaunt, because in my youth, there was no way to really de-couple the tunes. Actual cut (FX, meaning Effects, I guess) is really only a minute and a half space age sounding reverb. But buddy, does it ever augment into the most hellacious metal tune of all time. -1
Supernaunt- IMO Greatest Metal Song of all time. Every band member lets it all out and fly in a bombastic manner. Great riffs, Fablous Geezer thump line. Ongoing crashing cymbals. This is what heavy metal rock and roll is all about. Please don't skip this one.- 1
Side 2-
Snowblind- Again, one of a number of drug referenced tunes, and in this one, the boys affirm their love of Cocaine. Fantastic hooks, where Tony and Geezer fully blend their fret work in a powerful and blasting tune. Easy a top 5 BS tune, and would be the best if not for Supernaunt. 2
Cornucopia- I remember this as fan favorite back in the Live sabbath days. Time changes and shifts in meter are just another example that these aren't brain dead head banging ax guys. There is really some great song writing intertwined with shot gun blast to the ears.-7
Laguna Sunrise- Another great light ballad that just makes you scratch your head, that how can the same guys who blast out Supernaunt and Paranoid compose this. This is almost something in the air you would hear from Zeppelin.-6
St. Vitus Dance- Not saying this is filler, but this definitiely a drop off from the rest of what was become a great album. In this line of work batting a 1.000 is near impossible. - 9
Under The Sun- Filler part 2? Saying this may be blashpeme from the modern metal heads, who many believe think this song is the blueprint of all modern heavy metal. I personally don't agree, and this song just doesn't give the last of the album justice. Stick with the first 6 tracks. - 8
The 1st 5 albums of Black Sabbath are all worth a listen. But if you really want to hear them at their best, try Master of Reality or Volume 4.
-
Classic Album of the Day- The Who- Who's Next *****
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VTugfDAH2xM (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VTugfDAH2xM)
Outside the Beatles, The Who by far is the most profilic and talented songwriters and hitmakers that came out of the Brittish invasion. In overall longevity, as far as musically they outlasted their biggest competitors, the Beatles and The Rolling Stones. What is even more remarkable, is that The Who was less a collaboration of work, but pretty much focused on the genius of Pete Townsend.
The Who made other great albums... Tommy, Quadrophenia, My Generation, but what is most amazing about this band, is that they only did 12 Studio albums in their entire career. And out of that small sample, 32 singles charted.
I have mentioned earlier, that it was pure magic that this work was released 86 days earlier than Led Zeppelin IV. And there were many many other choices of great albums in '71. Like ZZTop's first. The Yes Album, Sticky Fingers, Madman Across the Water, ELO, etc. Quite a quandary for the young album buyer at the time.
In many ways, I beleive this was the pinnacle of the success of the band, Daughtery who at the time had one of the best voices in rock, started in decline from there, and Keith Moon especially started in earnest into his dark descent into drugs. But the no one can deny that the tandem of musicianship of Townsend, Moon, and Entwistle could be denied as great. Townsend himself started going into gloom, actively deriding Zeppelin as the pinnacle of rock heap.
But back to this classic. This album is full of classics Cuts again ranked in Blue
Side 1
Baba O'Riley- By far IMO the greatest Who song by far. Song starts with an almost robotic synth line for about 10 measure, then into the "DAG" piano augment, ...add drums, the in one of the most powerful belting of an anthem "OUT HERE IN THE FIELDS!!!! I FIGHT FOR MY MEALS!!!, the layer in Townsend's guitar. This is about the most perfect hard rock song ever composed. No ever before or since has taken the D-A-G Chordal progression so powerfully. 1
Bargain- Another excellent rocker, Townsend effectively works in some melodic parts, and synth to give some texture for contrast. Moon's drumming has some complexity not seen in other parts of the album too. Good stuff 5
Love A'int For Keeping- By now, you pretty much know that I am not a fan of ballads. But, there is no doubt, that the Who was a band who did them pretty effectively - 8
My Wife- Entiwistle's famous contribution to the work- Rally nice how Townsend blended the horns. Just more evidence of how innovative Pete was with his sound. This level of versatility, really wasn't as appreciated as it should be. 6
This Song Is Over- Did I say I didn't like Ballads? Not in this case. Awesome work by the band Powerful vocals by Daughtery, and how the song cressendos towards the end.... very powerful too. What a great band. 3
Side 2-
Getting in Tune- Not a bad ballad. But what a let down after "This Song is Over" 7
Goin' Mobile- Weakest tune in what is a spectacular album. Some good drumming, but this one just doesn't do if for me, Townsend kinds of sings it sillily too. 9
Behind Blue Eyes- Another very very powerful ballad. Daughtery's belts it out nicely. The shift change mid song toward adds more beauty and power to the tune. Song got much much air play in the day- 4
Won't Get Fooled Again- Epic anthem that rings even to this day to the distrust of political power. Great great tune, and one of their hallmark live tunes. Like Baba O'Riley starts with a synth opening, then pretty much turns into a full blown hellacious power. Often one of Pete's favorites to do his guitar smashing....... And who can forget the ending, that is often so apt. MEET THE NEW BOSS......SAME AS THE OLD BOSS"- 2
-
@catfish1957
There is something wrong with any list that doesn't have Pink Floyd in the number 1 spot.
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Classic Album of the Day- The Who- Who's Next
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VTugfDAH2xM (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VTugfDAH2xM)
Outside the Beatles, The Who by far is the most profilic and talented songwriters and hitmakers that came out of the Brittish invasion. In overall longevity, as far as musically they outlasted their biggest competitors, the Beatles and The Rolling Stones. What is even more remarkable, is that The Who was less a collaboration of work, but pretty much focused on the genius of Pete Townsend.
The Who made other great albums... Tommy, Quadrophenia, My Generation, but what is most amazing about this band, is that they only did 12 Studio albums in their entire career. And out of that small sample, 32 singles charted.
I have mentioned earlier, that it was pure magic that this work was released 86 days earlier than Led Zeppelin IV. And there were many many other choices of great albums in '71. Like ZZTop's first. The Yes Album, Sticky Fingers, Madman Across the Water, ELO, etc. Quite a quandary for the young album buyer at the time.
In many ways, I beleive this was the pinnacle of the success of the band, Daughtery who at the time had one of the best voices in rock, started in decline from there, and Keith Moon especially started in earnest into his dark descent into drugs. But the no one can deny that the tandem of musicianship of Townsend, Moon, and Entwistle could be denied as great. Townsend himself started going into gloom, actively deriding Zeppelin as the pinnacle of rock heap.
But back to this classic. This album is full of classics Cuts again ranked in Blue
Side 1
Baba O'Riley- By far IMO the greatest Who song by far. Song starts with an almost robotic synth line for about 10 measure, then into the "DAG" piano augment, ...add drums, the in one of the most powerful belting of an anthem "OUT HERE IN THE FIELDS!!!! I FIGHT FOR MY MEALS!!!, the layer in Townsend's guitar. This is about the most perfect hard rock song ever composed. No ever before or since has taken the D-A-G Chordal progression so powerfully. 1
Bargain- Another excellent rocker, Townsend effectively works in some melodic parts, and synth to give some texture for contrast. Moon's drumming has some complexity not seen in other parts of the album too. Good stuff 5
Love A'int For Keeping- By now, you pretty much know that I am not a fan of ballads. But, there is no doubt, that the Who was a band who did them pretty effectively - 8
My Wife- Entiwistle's famous contribution to the work- Rally nice how Townsend blended the horns. Just more evidence of how innovative Pete was with his sound. This level of versatility, really wasn't as appreciated as it should be. 6
This Song Is Over- Did I say I didn't like Ballads? Not in this case. Awesome work by the band Powerful vocals by Daughtery, and how the song cressendos towards the end.... very powerful too. What a great band. 3
Side 2-
Getting in Tune- Not a bad ballad. But what a let down after "This Song is Over" 7
Goin' Mobile- Weakest tune in what is a spectacular album. Some good drumming, but this one just doesn't do if for me, Townsend kinds of sings it sillily too. 9
Behind Blue Eyes- Another very very powerful ballad. Daughtery's belts it out nicely. The shift change mid song toward adds more beauty and power to the tune. Song got much much air play in the day- 4
Won't Get Fooled Again- Epic anthem that rings even to this day to the distrust of political power. Great great tune, and one of their hallmark live tunes. Like Baba O'Riley starts with a synth opening, then pretty much turns into a full blown hellacious power. Often one of Pete's favorites to do his guitar smashing....... And who can forget the ending, that is often so apt. MEET THE NEW BOSS......SAME AS THE OLD BOSS"- 2
I have to agree with you. The WHO's best song ever is "Baba O'Riley".
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I have to agree with you. The WHO's best song ever is "Baba O'Riley".
That's a tough call.
5:15
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zA1l-2jrVCY)
The Real Me
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q0h143iKVEo)
Love Reign O'er Me
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gDbAtWpoA6k)
Magic Bus
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bl9bvuAV-Ao)
Who Are You
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LYb_nqU_43w)
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As usual, I'm the odd man out. IMHO Bargain was the best they ever did. :laugh:
(I actually only went to a later concert of theirs just to hear the song live.)
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Bargain
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ka_pPf7OqiE)
See Me, Feel Me
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NzuNJod_o7g)
Long Live Rock
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6g4v3zaiIII)
Join Together
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_HDMCCLlGl4)
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Classic Album of the Day- Emerson Lake and Palmer- Brain Salad Surgery (1973) **** 1/2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p4fVQkL08Uo (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p4fVQkL08Uo)
Today's fare is one of the great prog albums of all time. Granted ELP's formula of not being centered around guitar is often not in people's tastes and roundhouses. I very much stand by contention that this band along with Yes, Pink Floyd, and Rush, are the most talented center of musicianship in any era of rock. And I will add that as far as vocals, Greg Lake bests those from the other 3 bands.
BSS really clicked in coherence versus some of the other works. Tarkus, IMO was the most complex piece of music ever attempted. As brilliant, and complex it was, I will grant it is not an easy listen. ELP took the early brilliance, and almost calming impacts of their first album, and combined it Tarkus' wizardry to create their greatest and most iconic work. There is a reason Keith Emerson is pretty much regarded universally as Rock's gratest keyboardsman of all time.
Rock's most under-rated drummer, is absolutlely brilliant, and I will add his iconic '74 California Jam performance at the end to provide some proof. I will rank again in blue. Of course, call ELP's works songs, is not the correct nomenclatue. Emerson's works are more like classical movements in every respect. Again, a warning..... If you are not into classical music tingerd with heavy and bombastic synthesizers.... This will not be your thing.
Side 1-
Jerusalem- Beautiful and majestic opening. Lake's voice is incredibly powerful and forceful. Will admit, when I first heard, and seeing Emerson mark the fitst work with a church organ, was kind of a shock, but really nice. Song sounds much like military anthem in its feel. Great start guys. 5
Toccata- Wow, Wow..... Song really doesn't truly match the musical term. The best way to describe this piece, is picture a scientific battle between bots. Emerson nicley mixes synths and organ, while Palmer plays incredibly difficult percussion runs. This one was a favorite of those broadening their minds in the day. The all hell breaking lose with synths and drums late tune, is not only pretty unique to ELP, but to pretty much anyone else. What a classic. There is one point, you can almost visualize the carnage on battlefield. 3
Still.... You Turn Me On- Album's ballad, and thanks to Lake's voice, maybe their best since Lucky Man. Always thought it was amazing that ELP had the versatility to excel at both ballads and grounding breaking prog. 6
Benny The Bouncer- What the hell got into Keith's head in this one. Totally out of place 100 year old like piano barrel roll piano piece that tried a hand at humor. Hey guys, Wierd Al is funny, leave that part of the business to him. Instead you wasted a cut in this classic. Less than filler. What a shame 8
Karn Evil 9- 1st Impression Part 1- Karn Evil 9 is (was) ELP's most epic work. Overall work is a commentary of a dystopia by human's desctruction in the world, and the most simple things are held in side show carnival. Most interesting of all is the vision (1973, no less), is of a war between humans and computers, and that aftermath. 4 minutes into the work you will hear one of the most incredible keyboard runs in history. To this day, it is hard for me comprehend how Emerson had the dexterity to play 32nd notes simutaneously not only the organ, but the synthesizer. 1
Side 2-
Karn Evil 9- 1st Impression Part 2- Welcome Back My Friends to the Show that Never End, screams the side show barker. All the guys work great in tandem. Impression ends with classic drum solo from Palmer (abbreviated, see live below). Classic ELP at its best- 2
Karn Evil 9- 2nd Impression- 1st part highlights some jazz infused piano, that at 2 minute mark masterfully blends into a piano/steel drum with a Carabbean vibe. Keyboard wizardry. Oh yeah. And like great classical music, tone masterfully shifts mid way into a macrabe sounding Hitchcock type of far., and finally returning full circle to a jazz finale. Great musicianship, but I am not really into Jazz 7
Karn Evil 9- 3rd Impression- Anthem filled finale. Very majestic and beautifully played. Until.... Latter half of song reverts to almost like Toccata, and its crazy keyboard interplay and drum work. Way way back, I used to wonder if the very last of the album is epic with its electrionic speeded up hysteria. What a ride. 4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P19BpRijJD4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P19BpRijJD4)
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Classic Album of the Day- Styx- Grand Illusion. (1977). **** 1/2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Paz-DMs2EY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Paz-DMs2EY)
If you have watched the Top 20 lists, you will notice that I really enjoyed late '70's Styx. The 3 album consecutive tandem of Equinox- Crystal Ball- Grand Illusion-Pieces of 8, was about as good as it got in the era. Styx was a commerically tinged Prog act, who had a great lineup, and really blew it away during these 3 of 4 albums
But here is the rub, the band's artistic direction during their hay day, devolved into a battle between James Young and Dennis DeYoung. JY wanted to take and keep the band on the hard rock track. DeYoung OTOH, was hell bent on taking them down the shitty path of soft rock and crappy ballads. In the end DeYoung won that battle, and why now Styx's legacy was overall tarnished.
To go from Equinox-Grand Illusion-Pieces of 8 to.... Cornerstone-Paradise Theatre-Killroy was Here, was suicidal.
I could have picked any of the 3. Equinox was the most edgy, but most uneven, Pieces of 8 the most progged, but with more filler. So I decided to go with Grand Illusion, which filled many many hours of listening in 1977-78. What is nice too, is the album is spread nicely between their 3 excellent songwriters (Dennis DeYoung-James Young-Tommy Shaw) And as usually, tracks are ranked in.
blue.
Side 1-
Grand Illusion- Title Track hits home nicely Strong majestic organ/guitar. Great harmonization, that becomes a major trait of the album too. Such an upbeat song too. Love the final almost promenade type ending that has fantastic organ/guitar interplay. This is my 3rd favorite Styx song behind Suite Madame Blue, and I'm Okay. 1
Fooling Yourself (Angry Young Man). Tommy Shaw takes center stage. Melodic wonder in 6/8 Time. Musical shifts are masterful, and takes so many forms and fashions. 5
Superstars- Group collaboration that hits on all cylinders. Really good feeling song. And folks, this is an incredibly consistent good album to listen too. 4
Come Sail Away- Maybe Styx's most famous and popular song in their entire catalog. If you in into ballads, this is a really good. Personally, this got so much damned air play in the day, that I got sick of it. The majority of you probably will rank this song much higher on the LP. 6
Side 2-
Miss America- Fantastic JY tune. Beside's his social commentary around the beauty pagent industry. Young puts together most rocking tune on the LP. Great searing synth and guitar solos mid song are worth price of admission. 2
Man in the Wilderness- Not that this is tepid, but not really Shaw's best work. 90% is MOR balladish, but the final minute of the song rocks with some good solo work though. 7
Castle Walls- A Dennis Deyoung ballad that balances synth and guitar, much like the earlier Shaw number. Maybe the weakest cut on the LP. By now you kind of get an idea of how the band differences are turning this band into Jeklyll/Hyde persona 8
The Grand Finale- Excellent and powerful , though short summation of end of a great album. Styx knew they nailed this. 3
Again, I can not express how big an ass hole Dennis DeYoung is for destroying Styx. Today, they are a mostly forgotten band. In the land of classic rock, legacy has to do with how true to your fans you were. DeYoung wrongly thought the band's fan base was 14 year old girls who love sappy crappy love ballads. Was he ever wrong, and it has sadly cost them.
I thought it was interesting that the (3/5) remaining band members (minus DeYoung and Panzo) decided in 2012 to play live Grand Illusion and Pieces of 8 live in album order for nostalgic purposes. I loved it.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m9QfV55XOLg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m9QfV55XOLg)
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Classic Album of the Day- Yes- The Yes Album (1971) *****
This is the abum that introduced me to Prog. And is arguably the most influental LP in the genre's history. Masterpiece musicanship that clicked in an uncanny manner. Where prog was previously stodgy, spacey, and Pink Floydish before. Yes, introduced a more melodic classical vibe that though not as classically structured as ELP, made it much more listenbable. In choosing a Yes album, it was between this one and Fragile. Both are outstanding, but I went with this one becuase of it's groundbreaking status.
I ask you to truly focus on the bass work of Squire. This is a standard and benchmark of musicanship that so perfectly jives with Howe's fret work, what maestros there were, and at such a young age. Don't forget, this is pre-Wakeman. Not that Tony Kaye was no slouch, he wasn't, but I do have to admit that Wakeman's wizardry does add a special dimension to future albums.
As usually cuts are ranked in blue of my preference.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Y6oPS4aLk8 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Y6oPS4aLk8)
Side 1
-------
Yours is No Disgrace- Yes comes out rocking big time in the first cut. This song and Roundabout are what I call the ultimate Squire Bass lines. His bass work slaps you in the face like a 2x4. What a great band.-3
The Clap- Howe accoustal ditty that pretty much is not my thing. Yeah, he's a great guitar player, but this is not what people want to hear from Yes.-6
Starship Trooper- (Subsetted into 3 parts- Life Seeker, Disillusion, Wurm) Best stongwriting on the Album. Best compliation of showcasing all band members talents. Last 4 minutes, (Wurm) does a nice cressendoingly explosion of work that speaks volumes of how the talent of this band gels. -2
Side 2
----------
I've Seen All Good People- (Subsetted into Your Move and All Good People)- Greatest cut, and easily most recognizable from airplay. First half of song, has great melodic play from Jon Anderson. Spectaular. Latter, ups the rocking angle, and ends with a unique fantastic gradual organ drenched chromatic chorus step down at the end, that is truly trademarked to Yes. It doesn't get much better than this- 1
A Venture- I admit that Anderson is not my favorite songwriter/maker in the Band, and this one has his fingers all over it. Not exactly filler, but a reversion to some of their earlier less stellar work.-5
Perpetual Change- A favorite in the Yes catalog among many. And a great finale to a great album. Bruford's best effort in percussion, really adds to this tune that weaves in and out complexity and tenor. The fact I see this as the 4th best song on this album, is true testament of its greatness -4
There is no doubt, that Prog and the likes of Dream Theatre among others would not exist with this album. It is an icon.
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Where prog was previously stodgy, spacey, and Pink Floydish before.
You think Pink Flold was stodgy and spacey,and that Yes was better?
You need to get your meds checked.
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You think Pink Flold was stodgy and spacey,and that Yes was better?
You need to get your meds checked.
Wow, sorry that you are so much a classic rock expert than I am. :silly:
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Wow, sorry that you are so much a classic rock expert than I am. :silly:
@catfish1957
I am no expert,and neither are you. I just know that I enjoyed all the Yes music I listened to when it was new,and am STILL enjoying PF. PF is timeless.
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@catfish1957
I am no expert,and neither are you. I just know that I enjoyed all the Yes music I listened to when it was new,and am STILL enjoying PF. PF is timeless.
Well, bud, how about an objective narrative about even one album, how about it? Didn't think so.
Are you even a musician? I play 11 instruments, and was in my university marching band for 4 years.
Pffffff... I gave half a thought about reviewing DSOTM, but f 'em.
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Well, bud, how about an objective narrative about even one album, how about it? Didn't think so.
Pffffff... I gave half a thought about reviewing DSOTM, but f 'em.
@catfish1957
Yeah,just like YOU are going to be "objective".
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@catfish1957
Yeah,just like YOU are going to be "objective".
From my POV, and understanding as a musician.....yeah.
You haven't given a definitive review of anything. Let' hear one.
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From my POV, yeah.
You haven't given a definitive review of anything. Let' hear one.
@catfish1957
I have to wait until I get get an injection of "pompous".
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@catfish1957
Yeah,just like YOU are going to be "objective".
Let's hear one... DSTOM? Meddle?, Animals?, The Wall?
Go through their merits, cut by cut.
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Seriously? The two of you are going to get your panties in a mutual twist over Pink Floyd vs. Yes?
(https://i.pinimg.com/474x/8b/2f/7d/8b2f7d510adec1599a6672da2677d341--fun.jpg)
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Seriously? The two of you are going to get your panties in a mutual twist over Pink Floyd vs. Yes?
(https://i.pinimg.com/474x/8b/2f/7d/8b2f7d510adec1599a6672da2677d341--fun.jpg)
Asking if I got my meds checked just becuase I gave a sepcific contrast of timing and style change within the band. The point was not even to insult PF. It was to highlight the artistic growth of Yes, and how it impacted the Prog Genre. I can't help that he doesn't understand that.
For some reason he thinks the Classic Rock world revolves around PF. Wierd if you ask me.
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Let's hear one... DSTOM? Meddle?, Animals?, The Wall?
Go through their merits, cut by cut.
@catfish1957
I am going to let you in on a little secret,bubba. Music is subjective,and only pompous fools proclaim something like "THAT album is stodgy,etc,etc,etc,compared to MY favorite."
I do know this to be true. I hear PF songs played all the time on the radio,and rarely hear anything by Yes.
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C'mon guys ....
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@catfish1957
I am going to let you in on a little secret,bubba. Music is subjective,and only pompous fools proclaim something like "THAT album is stodgy,etc,etc,etc,compared to MY favorite."
Okay, let's hear a substantive "subjective" analysis a Pink Floyd Album..... Track by track. There's 15 to pick from. Love to hear your opinion. That's a better approach than wildly flailing at me, slamming my opinion
Also check the very early posts of this thread. I always said that music was subject to tastes, and there was no such thing as best or even better. To some people even rap qualiies as music.
.
I do know this to be true. I hear PF songs played all the time on the radio,and rarely hear anything by Yes.
True, but Rush gets twice the air play on classic radio that Pink Floyd gets. Does that make them better? (False premise)
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C'mon guys ....
I love debate around music. In 1974 my best friend and I had a knock down, drag out one around better guitarist.......Jimmy Page vs. Ritchie Blackmore.
I made him so mad, he busted his Led Zeppelin III LP. :cool:
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I love debate around music. In 1974 my best friend and I had a knock down, drag out one around better guitarist.......Jimmy Page vs. Ritchie Blackmore.
I made him so mad, he busted his Led Zeppelin III LP. :cool:
Fair enough!
My very undereducated take on it is this: Pink Floyd is awesome, and have some unique strengths, but Yes was the more complex of the two and also has its own strengths viz Pink Floyd.
I love listening to both, although not always in the same mood or frame of mind.
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Pink Floyd may or may not be better than Yes, but I could never get into them.
OTOH, I really liked Yes, and their 80's stuff over the 70's. They have an almost forgotten album Big Generator that came out my college freshman year. Shoot High Aim Low is one of my all time favorite songs.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ER_nbf-fKRk
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Pink Floyd may or may not be better than Yes, but I could never get into them.
OTOH, I really liked Yes, and their 80's stuff over the 70's. They have an almost forgotten album Big Generator that came out my college freshman year. Shoot High Aim Low is one of my all time favorite songs.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ER_nbf-fKRk
@Free Vulcan
As always with the arts,it is subjective. It is even possible to like one group the most one day,and another group more the next day.
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@Free Vulcan
As always with the arts,it is subjective. It is even possible to like one group the most one day,and another group more the next day.
And you know, PF is an excellent talented band with iconic songs. But there are just some bands where you just can't catch the vibe. I don't down them, just let others enjoy them. :beer:
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Pink Floyd may or may not be better than Yes, but I could never get into them.
OTOH, I really liked Yes, and their 80's stuff over the 70's. They have an almost forgotten album Big Generator that came out my college freshman year. Shoot High Aim Low is one of my all time favorite songs.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ER_nbf-fKRk
Fantastic tune, and my favorite on the album too. I consider 90125 and Big Generator as the "Trevor Rabin" era, as he composed most of their best music of this timeframe with Yes.
Rabin has continued with great fame, more for soundtrack work. He is maybe most known for the NBA theme, and one of my favorite soundtracks, National Treasure.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qbs9C4vgayY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qbs9C4vgayY)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y9HGRnfzZdE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y9HGRnfzZdE)
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And you know, PF is an excellent talented band with iconic songs. But there are just some bands where you just can't catch the vibe. I don't down them, just let others enjoy them. :beer:
@Free Vulcan
Exactly. I would rather be beaten with a whip than forced to listen to punk rock. I know,or at least knew,people who LOVED punk rock,and can't even begin to guess why.
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Classic Album of the Day- Creedence Clearwater Revival- Willy and the Poor Boys (1969). *****
If you take the factor of longevity out of the equation, there can be a strong argument made that Creedence Clearwater Revivial may be the greatest American rock band in history. Try listening more than any 15 minute periode from 1968-1970, and not hear at least one of their massive hits. In that short period of time they charted 19 singles, and 5 of their 6 (7) albums chartedd in the Top 10. (Mardi Gras shouldn't count as it made the list on CCR name alone, and was not of their usual quality)
Picking one as an example was really tough. Any of the middle 5 of their catalog would have sufficed, I chose Willy and the Poor Boys, for the fact it has two of my favorite CCR tunes, "Down on the Corner" and "Fortunate Son". OTOH, if any of you countered with Cosmos Factory, or Green River, you'd be just as right. As one detractor here says.... Musical taste is subjective, and I have always agreed, and always will. Any preference to any music, is up to the listener. This is just one's reiviewers opinion.
But there is one negative aspect of CCR, that I have a serious beef about...... In fact I have covered a number of times on this thread... It is what I call the Creedence Effect. For a band with such a short life... 3 years and 7 albums ostensibly. How can its legacy be so abused that it results in 41 compliation albums. With that, I have lost a huge amount of respect for John Fogerty, and what he has done to CCR's name in that respect.
But, there is no question, no band incorporated traditonal blues, country, and great harmonies with as much as CCR No great musicanship here, just great simple tunes that many ways defined an era. Great songwriting, and a muscial signpost of what this era of life was like. It's hard not to smile while listening to a CCR album. Again, track ranking (IMO) in blue
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QEBRtHAYA7c (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QEBRtHAYA7c)
Side 1
Down on the Corner- Try not to tap your toes to this simple but classic hit. John Fogerty's voice was never stronger. The harmomies just click into what may be the ultimate late 60's party song. Love the street band imagery. 2
It Came of the Sky- Hilarious parody of the UFO thing. Nice rockabillly tune, and some of the best Fogerty guitar work on the LP. A lot of back slided politcal commentary of the day included. Though that theme was much more evident later in the album with Fortunate Son. 7
Cotton Fields- Hugely popular old Leadbelly blues covered song, that was mostly by country acts. CCR did it nicely too. Little back story on this one. As a TX/LA kid who was obsessed with attention to detail, it used to piss me off that people would sing about a ficticious place. There was no where in Louisana that was a mile from Texarkana. OH well.... 8
Poorboy Shuffle = Short instrumental of a harmonica/washboard ditty that augments well with the theme of the album. 6
Feelin' Blue- This tune is one of the reasons I chose this album to review. Terribly underplayed and underappreciated in their catalog. Very soulful blusey tune that IMO focused more on content that commerical appeal. 3
Side 2
Fortunate Son- Forrest Gump effectively included this tune in its soundtrack. Song was pure and true in its nature that Vietnam war was not equitable in choosing its particpants. Great rocking song. My favorite by this great band. 1
Don't Look Now- Elvis-ish rock-a-billy attempt. Maybe the weakest cut on the LP. 10
Midnight Special- Oft covered song, that CCR does very well. Stuff like this why Creedence was always listenable. Consistence. 5
Side of the Road- Instrumental giving John Fogerty a forum with his best solo work on the LP. Always wondered how Fogerty would do if he had taken an SRV approach in his solo career and focused on blues alone. 9
Effigy- Another hidden gem not covered normally in CCR playlists. This song almost has a "Hey Joe" Hendrix feel to it. Very simple, short but eery lyrics. I think they are worth covering in this era. 4
Verse 1-
Last night
I saw a fire burning on
The palace lawn
O'er the land
The humble subjects watched in mixed
Emotion
Verse 2-
Last night
I saw the fire spreading to
The palace door
Silent majority
Weren't keeping quiet
Anymore
Verse 3-
Last night
I saw the fire spreading to
The country side
In the morning
Few were left to watch
The ashes die
CCR's legacy has gotten kind of lost through time. But there was no doubting their impact. Try to imagine Modern Country music without the roots of Creedence and the early Eagles.
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Bands like CCR, Skynyrd, etc., are as much culture as they are music.
Penthouse Pauper is another little hidden gem of theirs.
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Wife gave me a ... record player. Damn kids and your new fangled contraptions. In my day music was digital dag nabbit! Songs cost what Steve Jobs said they cost dammit!
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Classic Album of the Day- Alice Cooper- Billion Dollar Babies (1973) ****
I have made the fact pretty well known that I felt that rock had gotten very formula, predictable, and overwrought with hippy, flowery, groovy bands. What the Beatles had created with Sgt. Peppers/Magical Mystery Tour had degraded into things like Strawberry Alarm Clock and other like tepid bands.
That is why I guy like me about 13-15 in the early '70's pretty much laughed off the worn out psychadelic stuff that was hitting up to then. When Black Sabbath and Alice Cooper hit (near the same time) in 1970, it sounded like nothing else. It was hard, it was edgy, and best of all it is was the antithesis of flower power. Evil, and decadent blasting at 110 decibels was cool. We went from peace signs to the welcome theatrics of biting off the heads of bats and chickens. And theatrics it was. We all knew it. And it was a welcome blast of cool air.
Alice Cooper, who is the original shock rocker cannot be underestimated in impact. Without him, there would be no Kiss, Gwar, Nine Inch Nails, among others. His original band were good, but not outstanding musicans. But they did have the "hook" skills, and decent songwriting prowess. What really set Alice apart though was the theatrics. A show of his was a journey into the macbre. He effectively augmented his songs into skits and effects that used guillontones, snakes, gallows, and other wild elaborate effects. I first learned about AC on KAAY Beaker Street in about '71. Ballad of Dwight Frye was a big staple on their late night fare. I got my first acutal look at his show on the inaugural "In Concert" Series that ABC ran back in the day...... Suprisingly, a copy of that show is available on YT.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gb4Cmxv2ifs (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gb4Cmxv2ifs)
Was an easy decison choosing an AC album. Was released at the height of his popularity, and especially contains maybe his two best songs..... Choice has to be Billion Dollar Babies.... Honorable Mention Killer and School's Out.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=niASoCvp_Iw (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=niASoCvp_Iw)
Side 1-
Hello Hooray- My favorite AC tune. There is a reason he used this one opening so so many of his shows...... Fine songwriting. Natural tune to set the tone. Final minute has a beautiful intertwined mellotron and chime included with a wide array of background blended guitar gives me shivers, a minute of beauty in an overall tour of decadence. 1
Raped and Freezin' - Think a song about rape could get played in 2022? Good song that has some fine guitar work. I remember reading long ago, that some of it was by session men since regulatory guitarist Glen Buxton, was mostly on a drug bender during recording. Song uses nice effect with horns and Mexican touches. Them of song is uh.... what can happen when the sexual tables are turned.- 5
Elected- Wow, this one rocks, basically paraodying our electoral processes. Hey McGovern was running.... why not. More great infusion of horns. This song may have generated maybe the first rock video of all time too. 2
Billion Dollar Babies- AC's foray into the mental. On stage he would rips dolls heads off in effigy. Song itself has some of the best instrumental work. 6
Unfinished Sweet- From POV, this is one of the band's strangest tunes of all. Song is basically a ditty on a dental visit. If you hate going to the dentist, you might want to skip. Band does a nice job of blending styles, even Spagetti Western flares. 7
Side 2-
No More Mr. Nice Guy- This was the biggest hit on the album Very sound representiave tune. Used strongly on stage presence to further the AC persona. Is this Alice Cooper or is this Vincent Furnier? I think this was a backhanded effort on his part to say sometimes in real life it is tough for folks to understand that this was an act. 4
Generation Landslide- AC's foray into describing a Dystopian future where genetic children rise and take hold of the future. Such a good tune too. I have to say that this album is one of the most even and consitently good albums in the early '70's. At least through these first 7. Then decline is dramatic. 3
Sick Things- The band now starts, and following 2 subsequent tracks starts delving into the darkness they like to portray in their stage act. This is the best of the 3. Very innovative use of tempo, chordal progression. 8
Mary Ann- If there was ever filler this in the one. Kind of a Scott Joplin like piano romper that alludes that Mary Ann is a Man and an object of affection. 10
I Love the Dead- Fizzling at the end sadly, Band used it as a theme of necrophilia, In 1973, when you are pushing the edge of shock for attention , I can see their intent. But almost 50 years later, it comes across downright silly. Little or no musical value either - 9
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Wife gave me a ... record player. Damn kids and your new fangled contraptions. In my day music was digital dag nabbit! Songs cost what Steve Jobs said they cost dammit!
I was like a kid in a candy store about 10 years ago, when I got one. I had about a 1000 albums that I bought 1965- 1985 that had been dormant for a long time. Was a blast getting to hear them again.
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Classic Album of the Day- The Ramones- Self Titled (1976). ****
One of the most interesting aspects of rock music has been its ability to morph when the formula gets tired, and diluted. Here's a brief and loose synopsis of its history up to todays example:
Rockabilly 1954-1963
Beatlemania- 1963-1967
Post Sgt Pepper's Psychadelic 1967-1971
Shock Rock and Heavy- 1971-1976
Punk 1976-1980
Punk's pioneers can be singled out to the Ramones and The Sex Pistols. The record buying public was tiring (sadly) to the AOR that typically had a hit or two, but included way to much filler as well. These two bands blasted into the scene almost simutaneously. But in many ways were as different as black and white. The Sex Pistols had a vulgar anger that focused on the outrage, and less on the music. Also nixing The Sex Pistols was the fact they only made one album. These guys just took their anarchy filled gibberish too seriously. And thus they flamed out as quick as they arrived.
The Ramones OTOH, enjoyed significant longevity with 14 albums over almost 20 years. Considering their influence, I found it amazing that none of these 14 ever cracked the Top 40. But few can claim the crazy amount of influence on the music industry. Just look at the post punk late 1990's early 2000's. Bands like Social Distortion, Green Day, and every other band of that era owes homage to this band.
As far as the band. Are they good musicans- nope, Thoughtful Songwriters- LMAO- No. These guys in fact take the 3 chord thing to extreme. Harmonies are often off key, percussion entirely static with no variation. They are basically a garage band having fun. So what makes The Ramones so Iconic? As I earlier mentioned with AOR, prog, and some sappy singer/songwriters like Neil Young.... Rock Music had entirely starting taking itself too damned serious. The guys tool the minimalistic approach, added some humours lyrics, decent hooks, and tough leather jacket personal, then soared with it. Here's another mind boggling stat about the Ramones- There have been 48 Tribute Albums (from other bands or compliations of bands) issued.
This album is best by far of their catalog, and contains some of their most widely known tunes. I am not goiing to give commentary on each cut, as there really isn't anything outside what I have already discussed to add. To the uninitiated, you will find that a lot of their songs sound just alike. But enjoy the raw energy and fun.
Instead, I will provide my 5 favorites at the end.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLzDw_1Y97I (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLzDw_1Y97I)
1. I Wanna Be Your Boyfriend
2. Blitzkrieg Bop
3. 53rd and 3rd
4. Beat on the Brat
5. Judy is a Punk
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Z Z Top- Tres' Hombres (1973). ****
Before being asked to give up my Texas Card, I figured I'd better cover one bad ass Rockin' Blues outfit from my home state here. Z Z Top.
Billy Gibbons absolutely shreds as a rock blues guitarist. Almost all of their albums are great, but this one is awesome, and by far my favorite. Being from here, we ALL were Top fans. Though Billy steals the show obviously, Frank and Dusty aren't slouches either.
And in this particular LP, there really aren't any weak cuts. Ranking the middle and lower tier preference of these is a tough task indeed. Well, here goes.....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4BNjy4LRWo8 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4BNjy4LRWo8)
Side 1
Waitin' On the Bus- Have Mercy!!!!! Get ya' Brown Paper bag and get ready..... What a song... Song comes out like a ditty, and them slams you with harmonica and bad ass blues riffs. Song is so iconic in Texas..... And you can't play this one it without blending into......... (Texas Rock Sacralige) 2
Jesus Just Left Chicago- The boys really put on their old timey blues hats on this one. Got to wear sunglasses while listening hear folks. How many times in this review do I get to say "bad ass". Great blues riffs on this one. 3
Beer Drinkers and Hell Raisers- The Top changes gears and rocks out. When I hear this one, it conjures bar memories galore. Juke Boxes wore this one out. 5
Master of Sparks- ZZ Top's first hand account of some of their youthful craziness. Somewhat of downshift rocking wise, but not bad at all. For S & G's, I have added the wikipedia blurb on the song. What a hoot. 6
"Master of Sparks" is a song by American rock band ZZ Top from their 1973 album Tres Hombres.
The song tells the true story[1] of Billy Gibbons and his friend R.K. Bullock who with a workman, welded together a steel ball cage with a seat and seatbelt fitted inside. They placed the cage into the bed of a truck and at night, after reaching a speed of 60 miles per hour (97 km/h), on Highway 6 near Houston (also known as Jack Rabbit Road), rolled the cage out the back with the hapless narrator and friend taking a ride inside. The cage generated a tail of sparks on the road but in its crushed condition stopped rolling. Still moving at high speed, the now egg shaped cage crashed into a fence. Both occupants survived relatively unscathed and were awarded the title "Master of Sparks" by the cheering crow.
Hot Blue and Righteous - Slow blusey ballad. Maybe the weakest cut in a fantastic album Some love it, me....not so much. 10
Side 2-
Move it Down the Line- Another great rocking tune. This is one freaking consitently good LP. 4
Precious and Grace- MOR rocker again. Good, but not their best. 9
LaGrange- HAW HAW HAW!!!!!!! Ahhh... the definitive Top tune. And my favorite by them. Where's my air guitar, some of Gibbons most compeling blues work too. Love when he does this live. Of course, when I first heard this when I was 15, I had no idea this song was about a brothel. 1
Sheik- A little Tejas infusion in this tongue in cheek song about....Yeah being a sheik, and some random mindlessness. Hey but shit's got rhyme doesn't it. :cool: 7
Have You Heard- More standard bluesy fare. 8
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Classic Album of the Day- Kansas- Leftoverture (1976). ****
If I were asked right now, what is the absolute biggest omissions in the so called sham of a rock and roll hall of fame, I would have to overwhelming say that it is the band Kansas. These guys are top tier talent, and have great songwriting chops too. The 2 album tandem alone with this one, and subsquent "Point of Know Return" are enough by themselves to enshrine them more than half the sludge that has been wrongly added.
But what has happened with the Hall, and the limp dicks who review records at Rolling Stone, is unless a band is edgy, highly political, and kisses the brass ring, they will be swept away. But the fact these dispshits didn't understand is the mid American rock band lover really enjoyed these albums. In fact these two albums made it to No.'4 and 5 in the album charts during a period when it was highly competitive for the LP Dollar. Kansas did a great job of mixing a couple of radio friendly tunes like Dust In the Wind and Carry On Wayward Son to appeal to a broad spectra of fans. These hit were fine, though overplayed, but the real gems were the other tunes, that featured a great amount of mix of rock, classical, and melodic fanfare.
I love these two albums equally, but chose Leftoverture, because the arrangement were a littles stronger technically. This whole band is a treasure trove of excellent musicans. Technically, they are prog, but they really don't come across that way in essence on the speakers. Want a good laugh? Rolling Stone Album Guide gives this LP 2 Stars. What a joke-
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f5jom_YYeGU (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f5jom_YYeGU)
Side 1-
Carry On Wayward Son- The song that really put Kansas on the map. Great anthem. Have to admit, I tired of hearing back in the day, It dominated radio airplay in '76-'77. Walsh's voice is about as strong as it was in their career. Many of you will likely rank it higher. But..... 4
The Wall- Love the harpiscordic sounding accompanyment. Not a fan of ballads, but they pull this one off nicely. 6
What's on My Mind- Great guitar interplay on this semi-balladic rocker. Last half of the song really shreds it. Fine guitar work by Livgren. 3
Miracles Out of Nowhere- One of the best song on the album, Almost a wind/dust early feel, synth nicely intertwines. Some of the best violin work on the album too. Almost a planned blend of the best of all aspects of Kansas. 2
Side 2-
Opus Insert- More excellence. How many bands can compose a 19th century feeling march into a prog song? Blended with synth in a beautiful manner. This is one damned great consisitent album. 5
Questions of My Childhood- My favorite tune on the LP- Some of the best rock songwriting of the era. How this one did not get more attention and air play was a mystery. 1
Cheyenne Anthem- Maybe the weakest cut on the LP, but still a really good tune. 8
Magnum Opus- 9 minute 6 part, piece. If you want a musically tour-de-force, all hell breaks out Kansas song.... This is the one. But IMO not one of the better cuts- 7
Again, if you enjoyed this one, I'd be remiss not suggesting that you listen to this one too. About equally as good.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LepSiqpC6hA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LepSiqpC6hA)
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Have you listened to Kansas album, “Masque”? It’s my favorite. Came out before their commercial success.
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Have you listened to Kansas album, “Masque”? It’s my favorite. Came out before their commercial success.
Very very good album. The technical aspects are there, but just a tad before their really honed their songwriting skills (IMO...of course)
-
Very very good album. The technical aspects are there, but just a tad before their really honed their songwriting skills (IMO...of course)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tTEo2yHVTSo
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Classic Album of the Day- The Moody Blues- Seventh Sojourn (1972) **** 1/2
The Moody Blues never made a bad album. Especially the 1st 8. I wanted to share one, and as far as classic status, I feel I had to pick one of three. This one....Threshold of a Dream, and In Search of the Last Chord. Album No. 8 here, is maybe the most conistent listenable of the 3. But please don't ignore the other 3, as they are more spacious in the absolutely phenomenal lush pyschadelia arrangements. 7th S has a tad better radio persona. But I guess if you really want to hear some roots of true prog, the Moody Blues were true pioneers.
I have spent many hours bashing the sily ridiculous Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland. Maybe the most heinous of their oversights, was not allowing the Moody blues to join until 2018. These guys are great song writers, great musicans, and put together a product that truly expound and show the talent of the best of psychedelia.....
So partake of substance of choice, and enjoy a ride of musical excellence......
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xDvSiJtYQaI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xDvSiJtYQaI)
Side 1-
Lost In a Lost World- Strong opening tune from Michael Pinder. Since it is his tune, you'd know it'd feature some awesome mellotron. Of course Pinder pioneered the instrument. And its use help give MB's that lush beautiful sound. 6
New Horizons- Justin Hayward had one of the better voices in all rock in the '60's. This is a beautiful song, with beautiful content. 3
For My Lady- Song has a rich nautical feel. I usuallly don't dig love songs. But Thomas does a nice job here. Maybe the most pop oriented song. 5
Isn't Life Strange- 2nd best Cut on LP IMO. Starts with light strings and flute i too, but explodes into psych- riffing harmonies that scream talent. The song writing talent in this one can not be understated. 2
Side 2-
You and Me- Lusicous mellotroned tinged hooked classic. My favorite on the album. In many ways this is the perfect Moody song. Perfect harmonies, every band memeber clicking like a perfect progged machine. Slow rolling Hayward solo at the end? Ahhh. perfect!!!!! 1
The Land of Make Beleive- More super strong vocalization from Justin Hayward. Very good tune. 6
When You are a Free Man- I won't exactly call this filler, but Pinder's addition isn't exactly a great addition to what is this band's best work- 8
I'm Just a Singer In a Rock and Roll Band- The most recognizable song on the album. Tune got a lot of air play in the early '70's. Maybe the most minstream sounding work they ever did too. From my POV, the piece seems forced and not in their vein or style. Others migh like it, but a lower tier vs. the other spectacular work on the album. 7
-
Classic Album of the Day- Blue Oyster Cult- Agents of Fortune (1976). ****
BOC has had a long and solid career, with most of their LP's collectable and listenable. I feel this one is the strongest and just seems to have this aura of surreal indulgence that marked what was their high water mark as a career. For me it contains my 1st and 4th favorite BOC tunes , Reaper and ETI.
One thing that also marks BOC, as I noticed them in concert. They are a very very tight musically sound band. One of the very best in the hard rock genre. The mix of Buck Dharma and Eric Bloom created magic with one of the last tandems of dueling mixing guitar work
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0aOKnEAcYzY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0aOKnEAcYzY)
Side 1-
This A'int the Summer of Love- BOC harkens to some of their early '70's type licks on this classic. Solid Solid, opening to the album- 5
True Confessions- A change of pace, the boys run a perky '60's like rinky tinky piano piece. Good song, maybe a lower tier, but just goes to show how strong this LP is. 7
(Dont Fear) The Reaper- BOC's signature song, and my favorite. In many cases some argue it is terribly overplayed. That may be true, but I never tire of this one. Great great song writing, tight composition, and playing. Harmonies... Spot on, Song is probably most famous for the SNL Skit. MORE COWBELL BABY. 1
ETI (Extra Terrestrial Intelligence)- At my first count, I think BOC made at least a half dozen songs about Aliens. This is the best one by far. (Honorable Mention- Take Me Away) Love the guitar work at the end. Boom!!!!! 2
The Revenge of Vera Gemini- Haunting song that had effective help from Patti Smith. Another of those songs that have than sinister aura that gives BOC that strange appeal. 4
Side 2-
Sinful Love- More of the sinister from the guys. Many of us '70's guys loved the meme at the time, when dealing with the opposite sex..... I love You Like Sin, but I won't be your pigeon. This is one good consistent album. 6
Tatoo Vampire- Big Rocking Tune- Band really amps it up on this one. Song plays like a horror movie in the max. Also realize that women with tattoos in 1976 were non exisistant. Exotic, and scary. 8
Morning Final- Great melodic tune, with some fine songwriting. Maybe the most underapprecated tune on the LP. Beautiful guitar work. Buck at his best. 3
Tenderloin- Weakest cut on the LP. Nothing of real value. 9 out of 10 sure a'int bad though. 10
Debbie Denise- BOC wasn't big into ballads, but this one works nicely. You don't think of band using synths that much, but here they do it nicely in almost a melotron fashion. The same eerie feel, and the albums slams the theme home nicely at the end. When I hear this album, my memores drift significantly. I pretty much wore this 8 Track up. 7
-
Classic Album of the Day- The Car- Candy O (1979). ****
Bands like The Cars, The Police, Elvis Costello, among another put a big dent into the AOR Arena Rock era, that everyone of couse identifies as New Wave. So we ditched our long hair and Tee shirts for sunglasses and skinny ties for a short manner. There could be arguments of one of a half dozen bands which were the best, or best reprsented the era. IMO... The Cars fit the bill there.
Picking an album was really really tough between the 1st 2. And to me they are almost equal in worth. If you want stylistic splash and the height of their Harmonies, Id go with the debut album. But for pure song writing skills, I have went with Candy-O. Here the Orr- Ocasek collaboration seems to click the best. The album art of including a Playboy artis (Vargas) was a nice touch too. :cool:
Also of interest is how lopsided by side this LP was. Side 1 is so overwhelmingly better. Never understood why the guys didn't mix it up better. In any case, especially enjoy Side 1, and a trip back to 1979-1980. And as usual, I have ranked and preferenced my preferences in blue
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TurGm4aowP4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TurGm4aowP4)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2TpQKh18760 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2TpQKh18760)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tEFiid5UkDo (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tEFiid5UkDo)
Side 1-
Let's Go- Neuvo Wavo right out the gate- Start seems much like the '78 gem. Heavy syn, and strong new wave beat. Huge hit after release. Topping out at No. 14 Orr's voice was never stronger- 3
Since I Held You- Same theme, syncopated rthyms effective. Vintage Cars, for certain- 4
It's All I can Do.- My all time favorite Cars tune, and a masterful exercise of song writing- There is a point half way through the song, where there are 4 very specific and intricate melodic lines are blended in, like none I have ever heard before. Absolutely incredible song, and a must have to anyone with a Cars "Play List"- 1
Double Life- Wow, what a followup- Slow rhtymic melodic roll, when Ocasek's voice beautifully and hauntingly focused at first distal to mic. Harmonies are first rate too. What a great side 1- 2
Shoo Be Doo- Synth Gibberish- Didn't say this album was perfect either- 11
Candy-O - Solid Rocker, that has some traditional rocking licks, while obviously incorporating new wave tinges- 6
Side 2-
Night Spots- Maybe the best song on the weaker album side- Ocasek fare, with some of the better synth and guitar work on the LP- 5
You Can't Hold Too Long- Weak Filler (next)- 10
Lust for Kicks- Organ based ditty- Not bad, Not great either- 8
Alot on My Head- Chaotic upbeated and unnecsessary- 9
Dangerous Type- Thankfully the Cars closed with a strong tune. Nice intertwining of guitar and synth at points in the tune. 7 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DJF-5ZwHYaM/url)
-
Dangerous Type
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q5yZC7T3qxA)
-
Dangerous Type
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q5yZC7T3qxA)
That’s my favorite song on that album too. And it is my favorite album cover by the Cars or the solo albums of Ben Orr and Ric Okasic
It’s so cool the way “I’ve got a lot on my head” segues into “Dangerous Type”
Sort of like the way “Moving in Stereo” goes into “All Mixed Up” in the debut album
@Hoodat
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@Gefn
I went to a dentist once for some oral surgery (bone graft work). This particular dentist offered his patients headphones to wear and a selection of music to listen to while your teeth were being worked on. For my visit, they had to put me under, but they offered me the headphones anyway. I picked a Cars album. Right after "Since Your Gone" started up, I felt the pin pr*ck on my arm and that warm narcotic feeling flowing to my head. Less than a minute later, I was out.
Every time I hear that song now, I think of that.
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FqHIkkRrwcQ)
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Random Saturday Night Musings.....
Remember way back with 8 Tracks when they had difficulty putting complete songs on 4 channels. Which meant usually at least one song had to pause during the channel change?
Thankfully in most cases, the record company had the sense to do the dirty deed on album filler.
However, there is one instance in which this crime was applied to the band's greatest tune.
To this day, when I hear this, I can only visualize/hear the pause when it is played. What idiots.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vKSUQ9ANoOE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vKSUQ9ANoOE)
Any others out there?
-
Any others out there?
Boston's first album. 'Hitch a Ride' was split between two tracks. In the video below, there was that sucky pause-click-pause that occurred at the 2:30 mark of this video:
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tV3pR87L-T8)
-
Any others out there?
@catfish1957
I am not entirely certain anything Pink Floyd put out would qualify as as "Classic Rock",or not. Guess it would all depend on who you were talking with. If it was a time traveler from the 25th Century,he or she would say "Hell,YEAH!"
I already posted this one on another thread,but will post it here again just in case there is someone here who has never heard these awesome vocals.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vWZ6hmHj2MA (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vWZ6hmHj2MA)
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I started preparing these list in July 1973, then December 1973 and pretty much monthly afterwards for several years....
July 1973
================
1. Alice Cooper Band
2. Uriah Heep
3. Black Sabbath
4. Three Dog Night
5. Grand Funk Railroad
6. Chicago
7. Led Zeppelin
8. Black Oak Arkansas
9. Deep Purple
10. The Guess Who
11. Rare Earth
12. Allman Brothers Band
13. Rolling Stones
14. Yes
15. Eric Clapton
16. The Who
17. Jethro Tull
18. J. Geils Band
19. Elton John
20. Edgar Winter Group
Albums bought:
Uriah Heep- Live
Alice Cooper - Billion Dollar Babies
================================
The Live ABC "In Concert" event really blew me away with that era of Alice Cooper. For those into history, You Tube- "Elected" for one of what I consider one of the earliest Music Videos of that format. Not that I disliked the "hippy formula" that worked in rock for more than 5 years butt....... Hearing acts like Alice Cooper and Black Sabbath seemed ground breaking and refreshing
@catfish1957
BTW,you can count me as being a MAJOR "Uriah Heep" fan. Probably saw them in concert more than anyone else. Bought their first album while in college,and saw them on their first tour. Incredible musicians and song writers!
-
Random Saturday Night Musings.....
Remember way back with 8 Tracks when they had difficulty putting complete songs on 4 channels. Which meant usually at least one song had to pause during the channel change?
Thankfully in most cases, the record company had the sense to do the dirty deed on album filler.
However, there is one instance in which this crime was applied to the band's greatest tune.
To this day, when I hear this, I can only visualize/hear the pause when it is played. What idiots.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vKSUQ9ANoOE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vKSUQ9ANoOE)
Any others out there?
I had BTO’s Greatest Hits and it did that on the song “ Hey You.”
On Kiss Rock and Roll over it did this on “ Ladies Room.”
-
Have you listened to Kansas album, “Masque”? It’s my favorite. Came out before their commercial success.
Ahh, my first Kansas album
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Kesio4k-dMU
-
Classic Album of the Day- The Car- Candy O (1979)
Bands like The Cars, The Police, Elvis Costello, among another put a big dent into the AOR Arena Rock era, that everyone of couse identifies as New Wave. So we ditched our long hair and Tee shirts for sunglasses and skinny ties for a short manner. There could be arguments of one of a half dozen bands which were the best, or best reprsented the era. IMO... The Cars fit the bill there.
Picking an album was really really tough between the 1st 2. And to me they are almost equal in worth. If you want stylistic splash and the height of their Harmonies, Id go with the debut album. But for pure song writing skills, I have went with Candy-O. Here the Orr- Ocasek collaboration seems to click the best. The album art of including a Playboy artis (Vargas) was a nice touch too. :cool:
Also of interest is how lopsided by side this LP was. Side 1 is so overwhelmingly better. Never understood why the guys didn't mix it up better. In any case, especially enjoy Side 1, and a trip back to 1979-1980. And as usual, I have ranked and preferenced my preferences in blue
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TurGm4aowP4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TurGm4aowP4)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2TpQKh18760 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2TpQKh18760)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tEFiid5UkDo (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tEFiid5UkDo)
Side 1-
Let's Go- Neuvo Wavo right out the gate- Start seems much like the '78 gem. Heavy syn, and strong new wave beat. Huge hit after release. Topping out at No. 14 Orr's voice was never stronger- 3
Since I Held You- Same theme, syncopated rthyms effective. Vintage Cars, for certain- 4
It's All I can Do.- My all time favorite Cars tune, and a masterful exercise of song writing- There is a point half way through the song, where there are 4 very specific and intricate melodic lines are blended in, like none I have ever heard before. Absolutely incredible song, and a must have to anyone with a Cars "Play List"- 1
Double Life- Wow, what a followup- Slow rhtymic melodic roll, when Ocasek's voice beautifully and hauntingly focused at first distal to mic. Harmonies are first rate too. What a great side 1- 2
Shoo Be Doo- Synth Gibberish- Didn't say this album was perfect either- 11
Candy-O - Solid Rocker, that has some traditional rocking licks, while obviously incorporating new wave tinges- 6
Side 2-
Night Spots- Maybe the best song on the weaker album side- Ocasek fare, with some of the better synth and guitar work on the LP- 5
You Can't Hold Too Long- Weak Filler (next)- 10
Lust for Kicks- Organ based ditty- Not bad, Not great either- 8
Alot on My Head- Chaotic upbeated and unnecsessary- 9
Dangerous Type- Thankfully the Cars closed with a strong tune. Nice intertwining of guitar and synth at points in the tune. 7
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DJF-5ZwHYaM/url)
I bought this album in the summer of 1980 and probably worn out my needle on my record player on it
-
Ahh, my first Kansas album
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Kesio4k-dMU
I remember buying Point of No Return for my first and only Kansas album
-
@catfish1957
BTW,you can count me as being a MAJOR "Uriah Heep" fan. Probably saw them in concert more than anyone else. Bought their first album while in college,and saw them on their first tour. Incredible musicians and song writers!
Great early '70's band. Somehow,even through the volume of concerts I attended, I somehow missed them. Thinking about, def. need to give some props to this highly talented, but almost forgotten band.
-
Classic Album of Day- Uriah Heep - Demons and Wizards (1972) ***
Uriah Heep was huge back in the early 1970's. And many ways maybe had the greatest hooks of the era. Picking their best album was easy. Demons and Wizards surpasses anything else they recorded. But still a nod to Magicians Birthday, which ws releasd later in the yer in 1972. UH never really charted high, but had a large and loyal following that ripped the the 1970's with some really good Rock and Roll. Maybe the one detraction to UH, was the lineup changes which by the mid '80's had taken its toll on the sound and mostly song writing. What really killed them was the loss of Ken Hensley who wrote the majority of their '70's classics. They also Spinal Tapped at the drums. 6 different drummers during their life of a band.
Here are the really good cuts on what is a very fine consistent album. Ranked in blue.
1. The Wizard- Beautiful acoustical, following by great work. Band clicked nicely, and along with Sweet Lorraine, from Magicians Birthday, my favorites by the band. Main memory of the song was listening to it on Beaker Street late at night. They were a solid staple of anybody's band list during the time.
2. Circle of Hands- Very lush Hammond work with great songwriting too. Byron's vocals are maybe some of the best he does on this cut.
3. Easy Livin'- This one got the most airplay on the LP. Good stuff.
4. Traveler in Time- Band sticks with the mystical theme, it what could be considered their best effort toward a concept LP.
The other 5 tuners aren't exactly filler, but when you see what this band did with Side 1 on this work, they had cemented themsleves outside of back up band status for most of the decade of the 1970's. In any case, if you are a classic rock afficando, this one is an almost "have to have"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PjTHfKjNI7g&t=703s (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PjTHfKjNI7g&t=703s)
-
@catfish1957
I am not entirely certain anything Pink Floyd put out would qualify as as "Classic Rock",or not. Guess it would all depend on who you were talking with. If it was a time traveler from the 25th Century,he or she would say "Hell,YEAH!"
I already posted this one on another thread,but will post it here again just in case there is someone here who has never heard these awesome vocals.
Like I have said at least 3 or 4 times on this thread, I as a musician, consider 4 bands as the ultimate creme'ed le' creme as far as musicianship. This claim on my part does not necessarily mean they are the greatest bands... but...
An argument could be made for any of these 4 bands (in no certain order) ELP, Rush, Pink Floyd, Yes.
My favorite Pink Floyd tune is one of their newer ones. It is powerful, beautiful, and almost mesmerizing. Gilmour's solo is almost hypnotic in its delivery.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xEMy34qhQe4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xEMy34qhQe4)
-
Like I have said at least 3 or 4 times on this thread, I as a musician, consider 4 bands as the ultimate creme'ed le' creme as far as musicianship. This claim on my part does not necessarily mean they are the greatest bands... but...
An argument could be made for any of these 4 bands (in no certain order) ELP, Rush, Pink Floyd, Yes.
My favorite Pink Floyd tune is one of their newer ones. It is powerful, beautiful, and almost mesmerizing. Gilmour's solo is almost hypnotic in its delivery.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xEMy34qhQe4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xEMy34qhQe4)
@catfish1957
The ONLY think I don't like about PF is that in MY NSHO,the backup musicians just don't get the recognition they deserve. This is especially true of the drummers. "Awesome" is NOT too strong a word to use.
Then again,with Gilmore out there fronting them with such awesome keyboard and guitar work,it would be hard for any other individual to get noticed.
BTW,I have a standing offer to pay Gilmore 100 bucks for that old,worn-out red guitar. Given how hard it has been ridden and then put up wet,not to mention strained,stretched,and strummed to the limits,you know by now all you could get out of it would be a cough when you take it out of the case,and a request for a cigarette.
Think 100 bucks is too generous and he hasn't answered because he thinks it might be a scam?
-
@catfish1957
Think 100 bucks is too generous and he hasn't answered because he thinks it might be a scam?
I have heard that if someone came forward and offered the broken neck of Hendrix' Strat he used at Monterey after Wild Thing, it might fetch One Million Dollars at auction. That for a half a broken guitar.
The record for memoribillia for Pink Floyd, is the orginal artwork (painting) of "The Wall" went for $1.85M.
You might want to up your offer for Gilmour's ax a tad. :cool:
-
I have heard that if someone came forward and offered the broken neck of Hendrix' Strat he used at Monterey after Wild Thing, it might fetch One Million Dollars at auction. That for a half a broken guitar.
The record for memoribillia for Pink Floyd, is the orginal artwork (painting) of "The Wall" went for $1.85M.
You might want to up your offer for Gilmour's ax a tad. :cool:
@catfish1957
You trying to harsh my buzz,dood?
Words like your gets back to Gilmore,who is so rich he probably hasn't counted out money for anything in years,100 bucks might seem like a good deal.
-
Classic Album of the Day- Steve Miller Band- Book of Dreams (1977). *** 1/2
As you may have noticed in my Top 20 lists, I was never a great fan of Steve Miller. Good music, but not one of those bands that had me clamoring at my record store for the next new release. However, this band hit pay dirt with one particular work that was 3-4X better than anything else in the category. Book of Dreams was pulled out of the ass, with some songwriting prowess that sure wasn't present in anything or after by the band.
Album did very well, hitting No.2 on billboard during the height of Disco-mania. 1977 airwaves were filed with this album. About 6 songs got serious air play. Ranked in blue, these are the recommended cuts: (Also sorry for the cracking album, this was the only YT video that had it in it'z entirety. Now let yourself get lost back to 1977, with some fine songwriting. In fact to give you an idea. SM's Greatest Hits Album has 7 cuts from this LP
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WvbW_e6icJo (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WvbW_e6icJo)
1. Swingtown- 08:42- 12:31- Super Rocking Tune that has memsmerizing repeitive drum line starting and finishing that seems to soothe into some absolutely classic hooks. Maybe's SM's best Moog work too for melodic beauty.
2. Threshold/Jet Airliner 0:00- 05:40- More just legendary hook. Miller rocks, and this tinue is just another example of consistence that was absent from all his other works. Steve Miller had other good songs and hits, but this is the one you want if pressed.
3. The Stake- 28:30- 32:19- Awesome blusey song that may actually the best musicanshp on the LP. How many of us told our girlfriends singing along..... "Nobody Loves You Like I Do". SM didn't do much solo guitar on this album, but with the exception of this tune, and it comes off nicely.
4. True Fine Love- 12:32- 15:14 Standard stock rocker- Good stuff.
5. Wintertime- 05:42- 08:40- Slow rocking and very listenable. Augments well with the other tracks.
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Classic Album of the Day- Green Day- American Idiot (2005). ***
Since we are kind of on a theme of once in a career inspirational gems. Here is another sterling example. Honestly, I think 90% of Green Day's music is shit. Uninspired formulaic punk music, and unfunny when the intent was to be funny. Add to the fact these POS' are flaming vocal socialist liberals doesn't endear me to their standing or legacy.
Still, I do have to give props, when they are due, and this once in a lifetime work is maybe the best Rock Opera prepared since The Who, Tommy/Quadrophenia era. In some cases it seemed the boys actually got some music lessons. Time and Key changes, midphasic melodic transitions, and a number of other neat music treats and tricks that actually make this a really good album. GD fans may slam me, but I almost suspect they didn't compose this album. Too Good, Too different, and some actual intellect put into the lyrics, and melody building.
Incredibly there is not one weak track on the album. Zero filler. And thus this in my opinion might be the best modern rock LP out there, along with Blink's Enema of the State.
The whole albums is very listenable, but if you want the very best, listen to the 2 long opus' Homecoming and Jesus of Suburbia. For familiarity, you might want to listen and remember the track Wake Me When September Ends.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=60CRF5yIvso (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=60CRF5yIvso)
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Watched an Elizabeth II documentary, and saw where McCartney help emcee the Jubilee Celebration in 2012.
The same Paul McCartney who composed this piece on Abbey Road in 1969:
Her Majesty
Her Majesty is a pretty nice girl
But she doesn't have a lot to say
Her Majesty is a pretty nice girl
But she changes from day to day
I wanna tell her that I love her a lot
But I gotta get a belly full of wine
Her Majesty is a pretty nice girl
Someday I'm gonna make her mine, oh yeah
Someday I'm gonna make her mine.
Considering his Knighthood too, I guess QE2, wasn't into grudges.
-
I wonder which Beatle QEII liked best.
I’m guessing Paul snd Ringo
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Classic Album of the Day- Styx- Grand Illusion. (1977)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Paz-DMs2EY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Paz-DMs2EY)
If you have watched the Top 20 lists, you will notice that I really enjoyed late '70's Styx. The 3 album consecutive tandem of Equinox- Crystal Ball- Grand Illusion-Pieces of 8, was about as good as it got in the era. Styx was a commerically tinged Prog act, who had a great lineup, and really blew it away during these 3 of 4 albums
But here is the rub, the band's artistic direction during their hay day, devolved into a battle between James Young and Dennis DeYoung. JY wanted to take and keep the band on the hard rock track. DeYoung OTOH, was hell bent on taking them down the shitty path of soft rock and crappy ballads. In the end DeYoung won that battle, and why now Styx's legacy was overall tarnished.
To go from Equinox-Grand Illusion-Pieces of 8 to.... Cornerstone-Paradise Theatre-Killroy was Here, was suicidal.
I could have picked any of the 3. Equinox was the most edgy, but most uneven, Pieces of 8 the most progged, but with more filler. So I decided to go with Grand Illusion, which filled many many hours of listening in 1977-78. What is nice too, is the album is spread nicely between their 3 excellent songwriters (Dennis DeYoung-James Young-Tommy Shaw) And as usually, tracks are ranked in.
blue.
Side 1-
Grand Illusion- Title Track hits home nicely Strong majestic organ/guitar. Great harmonization, that becomes a major trait of the album too. Such an upbeat song too. Love the final almost promenade type ending that has fantastic organ/guitar interplay. This is my 3rd favorite Styx song behind Suite Madame Blue, and I'm Okay. 1
Fooling Yourself (Angry Young Man). Tommy Shaw takes center stage. Melodic wonder in 6/8 Time. Musical shifts are masterful, and takes so many forms and fashions. 5
Superstars- Group collaboration that hits on all cylinders. Really good feeling song. And folks, this is an incredibly consistent good album to listen too. 4
Come Sail Away- Maybe Styx's most famous and popular song in their entire catalog. If you in into ballads, this is a really good. Personally, this got so much damned air play in the day, that I got sick of it. The majority of you probably will rank this song much higher on the LP. 6
Side 2-
Miss America- Fantastic JY tune. Beside's his social commentary around the beauty pagent industry. Young puts together most rocking tune on the LP. Great searing synth and guitar solos mid song are worth price of admission. 2
Man in the Wilderness- Not that this is tepid, but not really Shaw's best work. 90% is MOR balladish, but the final minute of the song rocks with some good solo work though. 7
Castle Walls- A Dennis Deyoung ballad that balances synth and guitar, much like the earlier Shaw number. Maybe the weakest cut on the LP. By now you kind of get an idea of how the band differences are turning this band into Jeklyll/Hyde persona 8
The Grand Finale- Excellent and powerful , though short summation of end of a great album. Styx knew they nailed this. 3
Again, I can not express how big an ass hole Dennis DeYoung is for destroying Styx. Today, they are a mostly forgotten band. In the land of classic rock, legacy has to do with how true to your fans you were. DeYoung wrongly thought the band's fan base was 14 year old girls who love sappy crappy love ballads. Was he ever wrong, and it has sadly cost them.
I thought it was interesting that the (3/5) remaining band members (minus DeYoung and Panzo) decided in 2012 to play live Grand Illusion and Pieces of 8 live in album order for nostalgic purposes. I loved it.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m9QfV55XOLg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m9QfV55XOLg)
Your opinion of Styx was the same as mine and my friends at the time. Love those albums that you listed. And then when Kilroy was Here came out, it was a huge letdown
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Bloodrock- Bloodrock 2 (1970). *** 1/2
If I was conducting the Top 20 lists 3 years earlier,one of the top bands listed would have been this one - Bloodrock- Bloodrock was a Dallas based hard rock and blues ensemble who dominated underground rock in the very early 1970's. Bands like this one, Grand Funk, Black Sabbath, and of course Led Zeppelin weaned Rock listeners from the grips of Sgt. Pepper/Magical Mystery Tourish like Beatle like clones that absolutely flooded the airwaves in the mid to late 1960's.
It was a mystery how this particular band's legacy faded, while the other bands I mentioned still have stlll enormous aiplay on classic rock stattions. What I especailly loved about Bloodrock was their perfection of the wailing dual guitaring that was similar to the Clapton/Duane Allman stuff happening about the same time.
But why? Seems their chops, especially in the songwriting area, really went weak, especially after Blood Rock 3. And to be honest, 2 and 3 are really the only classics in the catalog.
The albums controversial claim to fame was D.O.A. the 8 1/2 chronicle of a plane crash that goes into gory painstaking detail. Was it an albm sales gimmick? Maybe, but to a 13 year old kid, I thought it was pretty damned cool. But again, this LP has some great hard rock hooks, intertwined with some insane dueling guitar work.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mab_M1d2zX4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mab_M1d2zX4)
Side 1-
Lucky in the Morning- Really good solid opening tune that has some of the best percussion midway. -3
Cheater- Though the tempo slows the searing ax rings out though most of the song. Lee Pickens was definitely on his game on this one- 5
Sable and Pearl- Terrible strangled sounding singing in a hodgepodge of styles. I think the band in the vein of trying to sound versatile, really missed the mark. Filler? Yep. 7
Fallin'- Great tune- Band hits on all cylinders and each instrument almost in synce lets all hell break out. The solo mix of guitar shreds with the hammond just is bad ass. 1
Side 2-
Children's Heritage- Solid Solid rocker, with that rolling drum beat that you just knew the band would use this as their radio piece- 4
Dier Not a Lover- Another great tune that takes a chaotic rock blend of great organ and guitar. Song has veryntypical type Terry Knight production. You can hear a lot of Grand Funk (And Knight produced band) in it -2
D.O. A. - In 1970, i thought this was unique and ground breaking. 50+ years later, I and probably almost everyone else sees this as nothing but a "novelty" tune. 6
Fancy Space Odyssey- Band needlessly tries to captiualize on the 2001- A Space Odyssey. Some might find the hooks a tad catchy, but IMO filler classifiation- 8
As a bonus, i have found on YT, maybe the only single known clip of Bloodrock playing live early in their career.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eMTQt_bAOPc (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eMTQt_bAOPc)
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Classic Album of the Day- James Gang- Rides Again (1970). ****
This is such a great iconic LP, that was so far ahead its time. Walsh is no doubt one of the greatest slide guitarist ever, and this album by far showcases that talent immensely. This was the pinnacle of his career as a band leader. And the fact he gave the Eagles (finally) a rock and roll edge, has impacted rock and roll history more than anyone realizes.
This album had several tunes that got FM airplay, and I can remember so many of them on Beaker Street back in the day.
Side 1-
Funk #49- The Gang's first signature song, and a hell of a rocker. Was the '45 on the album. Looking it up, it only rached #59 on the charts. Of course, The James Gang never really a band of mainstream rock success. Walsh did much better commercially as a solo act later in the decade. 3
Asshton Park- 2 minute instrumental blusey ditty that has pretty much signature meter and technique Walsh is known for- 6
Woman- Another solid rocker, taken a slight notch down. Really solid bass lines, Walsh's supporting cast often did not get their due. 4
The Bomber/Closet Queen/Bolero'/Cast Your fate to the Wind- Walsh's greatest tune. An absolutely song writing tour de' powerful, with great riffs, mesmerizing slide guitar solos, and even a infusion of Ravel's Bolero that just make this song one of the greatest of the very early 1970's. I mean wow, this was actually recorded in 1969, released 1970. This song never gets old, and is timeless. 1
Side 2-
Tend My Garden- On most other bands, this would be #1 song. Band beautifully uses Hammond to season this classic. Listen to the riff lines, seems Scholz and his band Boston may have lifted a little too much on More Than a Feeling. Hmmmm maybe, maybe not. This is a ballad of greatness, and I don't say that too often. 2
Garden Gate- Guthrie like short tune, that is not in the Gang's wheel house. Maybe the weakest on what is a pretty damned good album- 8
There I Go Again- Didn't give this song much thought in the day, but it seems to have found some resurgence in Classic Rock era. 7
Thanks- Sure there had to be some filler. Weak work. 9
Ashes and Rain and I- Nice ballad that incorporates strings in very innovative and simple ways. Straight mandolin and acoustic blended with orchestral backing, very odd, but effective. 5
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aug9x4VF0Qs (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aug9x4VF0Qs)
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I hadn't thought of that album in years! It was one of my favorites back in the day. I wore out an 8 track playing it.
Thanks for posting!
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I hadn't thought of that album in years! It was one of my favorites back in the day. I wore out an 8 track playing it.
Thanks for posting!
@berdie
Wasn't it a great album? I know every album can't have the consistency of Led Zeppelin IV, but you got to give kudos to bands who can at least fill over half an album with solid rock and roll. The high point for me was Walsh's incredibly innovative way of incorporating Bolero into a great rock and roll tune.
I do have an interesting Walsh tale.....
Back in about 1977 or 1978 I guess, Walsh while solo, did a concert in my town. I don't think I went because I had to study for a test the next day Well, at 2 am, that night me and a group of friends went to our favorite 24 hour coffee shop to caffiene up for more cramming, and guess who we saw there... Four tables over.... Joe Walsh and his band.
What I saw was quite a spectacle. Walsh was eating his oat meal with his hands, and all kind of food was spread all over everwhere at their table. These guys were major league wasted. He had food on his face, hair......everywhere. They couldn't even talk... they were grunting and snorting. At the end of their meal, their Limo driver had to basically carry them out. Heck one had even passed out.
Life's Been Good..... (I guess?)
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No doubt about it, Joe was a mess at one time.
My brother worked at an upscale hotel. One of the few in the city that would let him stay. Most people got wake up calls. He got "time to go to bed now" calls. He always, good naturedly would say...okay. I do think they finally had to ban him, lol.
It's always been amazing to me how he (and some others) could maintain such musical ability under such circumstances.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Def Leppard - Hysteria (1987) ****
Def Leppard was an anomoly by being stuck in an era where prepice of mainstream arena rock and roll had become much formula and tired. OTOH, this band put together this gem, whcih is is maybe the best LP of the late '80's. The band had put together a good run throughout the '80's, but this one particular LP is their best and most consistent.
What set DL apart and unique was their homage to the glam era, but plastered almost in a metal base that was so powerful. This particular album sold 17M units. Huge, popular, and massively played in the late '80;s.
I'll leave the general commentary off this time, and just say that there are 6 absolutely fine tunes worth a listen or relisten if you remember. I don't think you'll be disapointed....
Track 2- Rocket- Specific tribute to their late '60's and early '70's glam rock roots.
Track 3- Animal
Track 4- Love Bites
Track 5- Pour Some Sugar on Me- Arguably DL's greatest tune.
Track 6- Armageddon It
Track 8- Don't Shoot Shotgun
Track 10- Hysteria
Crazy is that ls that all 7 of these cuts get airplay in classic rock radio today. That is how big a classic Hysteria was....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jz46SJm5Kp0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jz46SJm5Kp0)
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Def Leppard is without a doubt one of the best bands from last century, and I recall buying both records and cassette tapes of “Pyromania” and “High and Dry” from Sam Goody.
Nice synopsis @catfish1957
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Classic Album of the Day- Chicago Transit Authority (1969) *** 1/2
As a musician, and primarily a trombone player (high school/university) I had a huge affinity and love for early Chicago. Well at least the first 8 albums. With a significant infusion of jazz in their style, I understand that this is not every rock fans cup of tea. But I envisioned myself as James Pankow and even attenuated my horn in his style.
Not many can claim Chicago's longevity, 38 studio albums at last look. Not much of a fan, post 1980.... But they did put some great tunes that parlayed every style in the 1970's. To demonstrate their legacy, here is a paragraph from Wikipedia with their resume'
To date, Chicago has sold over 40 million units in the U.S., with 23 gold, 18 platinum, and eight multi-platinum albums.[8][9][10] They have had five consecutive number-one albums on the Billboard 200[11] and 20 top-ten singles on the Billboard Hot 100.[12] In 1974 the group had seven albums, its entire catalog at the time, on the Billboard 200 simultaneously.[13] The group has received ten Grammy Award nominations, winning one for the song, "If You Leave Me Now".[14] The group's first album, Chicago Transit Authority, released in 1969, was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2014.[15] The original line-up of Chicago was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2016.[16] In 2017, Peter Cetera, Robert Lamm, and James Pankow were elected to the Songwriters Hall of Fame for their songwriting efforts as members of the music group.[17][18] Chicago received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award on October 16, 2020.[19][20]
I chose this album because it had some of its most iconic early songs like Beginnings, Does Anyone Know What Time Is?, Questions 67 and 68, and I'm a Man. OTOH, there are dozens and dozens of minutes of solo work that kind of does give this double album a prententious feel. But to the uninitiated, the first album is your best sample. The next 8 or 9, all have the characteristic of having 2 or 3 really good songs, but obviously with filler too. Post 1980?..numerous lineup changes (23 in their history) hurt the sound and continuity of the band's intent. I usually hate and don't recommend compliation or Greatest Hits Albums, but Chicago is a good band for that type of consumption.
I also like the fact that these guys were really ahead of their time, and gave rise to several "like" bands like Blood Sweat and Tears, Ides of March, et. al. In any case, if you were around back in '69, this one is sure to resurrect some memories......
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B4dQcjoVUfE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B4dQcjoVUfE)
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@catfish1957
Have you ever though5 of publishing your music reviews professionally?
They’re good, interesting , informative and a pleasure to read.
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@catfish1957
Have you ever though5 of publishing your music reviews professionally?
They’re good, interesting , informative and a pleasure to read.
Very kind and generous comment. Thank You.
But there are a whole lot others out there more knowledgeable, and better writers than I on this subject. This is just for fun.
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Classic Album of the Day- Led Zeppelin III- (1970). *****
This album and I have had a strange and up and down POV throughout the years. Way way back when this was released, almost all of us based our album purchases on what we heard from the band on the radio. And when I first heard "Immigrant Song" I was blown away. Here was more of the bombastic heavy stuff we heard and loved on I and II.
So when when this 13 year old unwrapped his copy of the LP I was sickened by what I thought was an alter-ego or joke of what was the greatest rock band in the world. Even into the late 70's, early '80's with the abrupt end of Zeppelin, I considered this by far their worst work. But boy howdy after a decade or 2 that view changed. I finally realized this was music of the genius, flexibility, and breadth of Jimmy Page. Now, I see this as the second best album after IV.
It took easy 20 years to appreciate the wide range of strings and styles that Page used to create some of the most unique music of the early '70's. Yes, it was strange and eclectric, but OTOH, it hit every box that every Zep fan loves. There's heavy metal, traditonal British folk, Back breaking blues.... Yes ladies and gentlemen ... this is the ultimate Zeppelin album. And is with IV, there is no filler. Every cut is awesome. Another point in almost a concept thread is how Page partioned this LP. Side One favored more tradional Rock and Blues, while Side 2 went hog wild into British Traditonal Folk.
And this album, along with Rust Never Sleeps, is why my favorite instrument to play by far is the 12 String.
Here is the synopsis of the LP, and ranking. All the songs are great. Enjoy, and see why so many people consider this band the GOAT.
Side 1-
Immigrant Song- Awwwyeeeawww Awwwww Awwwyeeeawwww Awwwww!!!!!! No mistaking or missinng this great heavy classic. The one that got airplay. And the one cut that best mimicked earlier Zep work. 1
Friends- Folksy, Bluesy, rocky ditty with what comes across almost a mellotronish filler that gives a haunting feel to this one. Plant intentionally screnches his voice up up half an octave. Very strange song, but effective in giving the mysterious Zep aura. 9
Celebration Day- Which then awesomely phases half chromatically via slide into maybe the straightest rocker on the LP. Wow... 6
Since I been Loving You.- I know many who consider this the greatest Zep blues tune in their career. Even better than some of the classics that dominated I and II. Page throws in a fantastic shredder solo mid way. I am not an obsessive fan of pure blues, but this is damned good even for rockers. 8
Out on the Tiles- Anoter fantastic rocking song when awesome hooks. Bonham's drums are sadly overlooked by critics on most of this LP, due to Page's showcasing. But if you listen pretty closely, there is some damn hard to do drumming going on right here. 2
Side 2-
Gallows Pole- Traditonal UK folk song that Page transcribed into a clinic on strings.... Guitars, Mandolins, 12 Stings, even Banjos. Yeah folks its all there. And it is a toe tapping tribute to versailty and genius of Jimmy Page. I hated this and most of side 2, 50 years ago. Now there is no to underestimate it's greatness. 3
Tangerine- Page's most beautiful ballad for Zep. The 12 string blending in and switching with wah wah is incredible. The solo blend of JPJ and Page at the end is magnificent. 5
That's the Way- Ever hear and have a song that ever throws you back into time and retrospection? This beautiful tune is like a 1972 time machine for me. I don't know or understand why, but for some reason, I have difficulty holding back the tears when listening. Maybe its the melancholy tone or message. 4
Bron-Y-Aur Stomp- Band puts on their Celtic traditonal fare- Love that they haven't forgotten their roots, when in 1970, that probably wasn't viewed as very cool. 10
Hats Off To Roy Harper- This song eptimozies the absolute talent of Zep. Plant and Page basically put together a tribute to 1920's and 1930's Delta Blues by recreating the sound, as it would have came across recorded then. Complete with fret distortion, and voice inflection of a tin can microphone. Newbs would think this sucks. I recocognize the genius. 7
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=85xPrpGOhao (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=85xPrpGOhao)
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@catfish1957
Directed to everyone else,as well.
Led Zepllin is back on tour and tickets are for sale now.
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@catfish1957
Directed to everyone else,as well.
Led Zepllin is back on tour and tickets are for sale now.
(https://rashmanly.files.wordpress.com/2010/11/prapprovedpeewee-e1289447907158.jpg?w=450&h=568&h=568)
I know..... I know..... You made me look (Google)
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@catfish1957
Directed to everyone else,as well.
Led Zepllin is back on tour and tickets are for sale now.
The last time I bought a Zeppelin ticket, the drummer died shortly after.
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Classic Album of the Day- Led Zeppelin III- (1970)
Celebration Day is one of my favorites.
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KMQdiHIZgSo)
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In honor of the late Christine Perfect McVie who died yesterday at the age of 79.
In tribute, I am providing what I felt was her finest example of song writing. A song that pretty much has been overlooked through time. This one was from 1979s Tusk...
Written and sung by her.
Haunting and soulful delivery with a eery band fade feel in the background. This tune brings back so many memories.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hz4ixHvXl5g (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hz4ixHvXl5g)
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This is what I loved about her songwriting. Everything she did was laid back, like a lazy carefree Sunday summer afternoon on a Monday-holiday weekend. Stuff that you could just groove to.
Always such a nice pairing to the mega-powerhouse hits.
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Classic Album of the Day- Foreigner- IV- 1981 *** 1/2
I don't think you will find many now days, who feel that Foreigner was one of the greatest or even part of the upper echeleon of 1970's Rock's golden age. Honestly, they were highly formulative, corporate, and uninspiring in a good line share of their catalog. Still, out of the lot, IV was a hook making machine. It didn't have any tunes as good as "Hot Blooded", but as far as consistence, and what I call "minimal filler", this LP loosly qualifes as a legit classic.
There is no denying the populatiry of Foreigner.... All 5 of their first 5 LP's all made the U.S. Billboard, including this one that reached No. 1. And their only one to reach No.1. Part of the chemistry issues, is that like Asia, Foereigner was formed from the fragments of these bands... Spooky Tooth, King Crimson Black Sheep, others. Not that childhood commradary is a prerequiste for being a great band, but life experiences in the earliest always seems to gel these bands. This particular album also included one of the greatest sax session men of all time grinding it on "Urgent". And Larry Fast, synth extrondinarre. And finally, it sure didn't hurt to have Mutt Lange producing this thing. Lange has a extensive portfolio of classic albums that include the lights from Def Leppard, AC-DC-, and The Cars.
Side 1
Night Life- Banging rocker, and first with awesome hooks and licks. 4
Juke Box Hero- One of the Great Foreginer Tunes of all. Song tells a fantastic story of rock stardom, while deep mysterious bass lines intertwined with successive power chords. 1st tune of the LP that gets substantial air play on Classic Rock Stations. 1
Break it Up- Gramm slows it down thinking the tune starts into balladville but rocks on to conclusion. 6
Waiting for a Girl Like You- Now here is the ballad, and Foreigner nails it. Beautiful and soulful. Graham's voice meshes well with it's understated accompaniment. Synth background almost gives it an etheral feel too. Not really into Rock Ballads, but this one works so well on so many levels. 5
Luanne- This is the sleeper on the LP. Very simple rock ditty. 3 chords, simplistic, almost dumb lyrics. But for some reason, this one was always one of my favorites on the album. 3
Side 2-
Urgent- Big Hit for the band. Maybe the best overall instrumentalization of the work. As mentioned earlier, Junior Walker's solo on this song is worth of the price of admission by itself. Never heard such great gutteral shredding sax on a rock sound ever, or since. 2
I'm going to Win- Maybe the heaviest feel of a song on the LP. Harkens more of the sound of the 1st 2 albums. This one really sounds like it could have been on their Self Titled, or Double Vision. Seems out of place, and thus rates lower than others. 8
Women in Black- Another excellent song. At this point while listening, you have come to the conclusion you sure have gotten you money's worth. Also you sure see that Lou Gramm is a helluva vocalist. 7
Girl in the Moon- Closest thing to filler on this LP. Next...... 10
Don't Let Go- Band finishes the album on a somewhat better note,- Some good instrumental interplay. But lower tier I guess. 9
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_UQcqYlZ_bk (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_UQcqYlZ_bk)
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This will always be my favorite Foreigner song, back before they went commercial.
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vMbP5woz7S8)
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This will always be my favorite Foreigner song, back before they went commercial.
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vMbP5woz7S8)
That’s my favorite, as well.
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Foreigner - I Want To Know What Love Is (One of my favorite Foreigner tunes)
www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3Pr1_v7hsw
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Classic Album of the Day- Rush- Moving Picture (1981) *****
First a disclaimer. Rush is my favorite band, but you might be surprised, as far as ranking as favorites, I have it at #5 or #6 in their cataglog. Which puts me in the extreme minority of the huge universe of Rush fans. Seems almost everyone else has Moving Pictures #1 or #2, usually behind 2112. Why? From 1981-1983 this LP got way way overplayed, almost to the point I got sick of it. Used to get laughs when people would come up to me, and ask if heard this new Band Rush, when in essence, I had been loving them 6 years already.
But I will have to admit, this album has their best songwriting of their 19 studio albums, (plus no. 20 if you include their Feedback album of '60's Covers). 5 of the 7 songs on this album get airplay of classic rock stations. Not many bands can make that claim of one album's success. This was especially groundbreaking for the band, as it was the first one that Geddy starting truly infusing synth into a line share of the band's product. Some Rush purist decry that as a departure from the 2112/Permanent Waves epic sound. But of course, with all music, tastes differ, and one thing that could be said about this band..... They were not afraid to experiment with new styles and sounds, and at least 60-75% it worked to their advantage in stature as legendary band.
And remarkably.... This album has zero filler.
Side 1
Tom Sawyer- There is no mistaking the phasic power synth chord that starts on the Band's signature song. Song got massive FM radio play in the day. And honestly I got sick of it. Song has drum work that is considered the benchmark of difficulty. Song was well received for its comments on social commentary, but......... 6
Red Barchetta- Talk about a prophetic song. One about banning gas burning cars. Plus this tune absolute rocks, with some of the greatest syncopative Lifeson/Lee guitar dueling in their career. Drumming is insane too. VROOOOM!!!!!! 3
YYZ- The bands most famous instrumental. Name of the song corresponds to their homage to the Airport code of their hometown -Toronto, Canada. Drum/Bass/Ax interplay is incredible. Some of Geddy's bass lines, and of course the tune was always a fixture at their concerts. 4
Limelight- Yes, this was overplayed like Tom Sawyer, but at least for me, aged better as an enjoyable song. Peart was infamous for his privacy, and he chose this song to communicate that fact to his fans. Maybe the best hooks of the LP too. If you listen to Classic Rock stations in this era, you'll hear it at least once weekly. A solid solid pick, as among their best. 1
Side 2
The Camera Eye- A very much more obsscure tune, if you do not have this album. But make no mistake, this song loses nothing on content, and sheer talent. Was kind of unusual for Rush to have "2" instrumental tunes on one album, well this song is 90% instrumental. Just because this is the lesser of the two, does not diminish its greatness. 5
Witch Hunt- This is the true super sleeper on this album. I just absolutely love the dark, deep, and forboding feel of this song. Lyrics so much now embody what supression and persecution we are now witnessing from the left wing socialist woke faction in this country. I don't think Peart meant it to be the ultimate intent. But it hits close to home now 2
Vital Signs- At this point, you realize that there isn't a weak moment on the LP. This one probably most closely mimicks meter and style of earlier Rush, than the rest of the album. And still it sounds 100 light years of what we remember from 1974 Rush. 7
In any case, if you are a rock fan, and never heard this album in its entirety, you are in for a treat.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iAIxUvd8gWo (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iAIxUvd8gWo)
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Red Barchetta
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_LXKZq0fYDw)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Kiss- Destroyer (1976). ***
How about a curve ball? Expect me to come out with a Kiss Album. Well first the negatives... Kiss were atrocious musicans. Everything from 1973-1975 was a garage band crap. 10,000 other garage bands could have made any complation of drivel that came from this group early on. So why was this one of the biggest bands in the Country in the mid 1970's. They took the shock schtick mantle from Alice Cooper, and exploited it, like no had ever before.
But....
The boys borrowed who I feel is the most underated Producers all time for their 1976 work. Bob Ezrin. Ezrin previously took an gawd awful "Prettys for You" era Alice Cooper, and made them respectable, on every angle of song writing, musicanship, with that flare for showmanship. The album Destroyer almost seems like a once in a lifetime creative epiphany for the band, and they put together this very solid effort. As with all Kiss albums, there are massive amounts of innuendo, and lyrical sharing of the Rock and Roll lifestyle.
So with that, here is a producer inspired band, who infused some great production values, and backed off the amps from "11" to "10". And since this has some of the most innovative "hooks" (thanks to Ezrin), I'll spare the song details, and rank the tunes that aren't filler.
Side 1-
Detroit Rock City- 3
King of the Nightime World- 1
God of Thunder- 7
Side 2-
Flaming Youth- 5
Sweet Pain- 4
Shout it Out Loud- 2
Do You Love Me- 6
Filler -
Great Expectations (Side 1)
Beth (Side 2). Yes, this was their biggest hit on the LP, but is one awful syrupy crappy ballad. Who bought this shit?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m50uOTpfib0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m50uOTpfib0)
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The only KISS song I ever liked was Firehouse, but only because it makes me laugh every time I hear it. WOO WOO!
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Deep Purple- Machine Head (1972) **** 1/2
Before Eddie Van Halen set the bar for being the ultimate Ax narcissist, there was Richie Blackmore. Back in the day, there weren't many bands bigger than Deep Purple. In fact they held No. 2 billing in the 1974 California Jam behind ELP. Very talented band that suffered from the iron fisted control of Blackmore. That fist caused unfortuate lineup changes. But this one in particular, was them at their pinnacle.
If he'd had any care for the legacy of this band, there wouldn't be any Rainbow tangents, or other temper tantrums.
Purple, still had to live in the shadow of Led Zeppelin, and from what I read at the time really grated on Richie Blackmore. What really makes me dig this era of Purple, was Jon Lord, (again IMO) behind Emerson and Wakeman, the greatest rock keyboardsman of all time. And in this particular album he smokes it. In any case, if you want an example of Deep Purple at its best, this is the trick.
Side 1
Highway Star- Right out of the gates rocking- Great tune, with all members clicking on all cylinders. Jon Lord's (example 1) organ solo is fantiastic. Blackmore does some nice solo work at the end too. 3
Maybe I'm a Leo- Funky Blusey number that if you put Morrison's voice on it, you might think it was the Doors. Another solid effort- 5
Pictures of Home- Another good one. This one particular highlight's Paice's excellent percussion runs. I love how Giliam interphases sub-screams, sometimes in almost Robert Plant fashion. Sometimes you wonder how much the Yardbirds/Zep truly influenced Deep Purple. Glover does a fine solo at the end too. This is maybe the best tune on the LP showcasing the band's talents. Not the best written one, but maybe the best technically 6
Never Before- Another foray into a funky-blusey arena. Might be the weakest of a super strong album. And that is no knock on this tune, it rocks as does the others. - 7
Side 2-
Smoke on The Water- Opening power riffs are the most recognizable in the entire history of Rock. If you don't recognize those riffs or this song, you have probably wandered into the wrong thread. Bad ass song, but like many in my opinion grate on you after hearing it 50,000 times. Glover's thunderous bass work often gets overlooked in this mainstay of classic rock radio. 4
Lazy- I mentioned earlier that I felt Jon Lord was the 3rd best in rock history on the ivories. But given the fact the other two are better (Emerson and Wakeman) are highly prog driven, and peg out the pretentious factor. Jon Lord in this particular effort made what I feel is the greatest straight out hammond organ driven blues rock in roll song in history. 2
Space Truckin'- Lost in the catalog of Machine behind SOTW, is what I feel is the gem of the entire career of Deep Purple. Song has aged great through the sands of time. This one brings out the Beavis and Butthead in us. YEAH!!! YEAH !!! YEAH!!! SPACE TRUCKING!!!!!! 1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hMCVe0cs4DI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hMCVe0cs4DI)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- The Doors- The Doors (1967) ***
Never was ever really a big Doors fan, but one can not discount that no one ever sounded like them before or after. Their signature sound centered around Ray Manzariak's mesmerizing Hammond, and of course the enigmatic, and ultmate lyricist Lizard God... Jim Morrison. The Doors had an absolutely ground breaking LP with their debut effort in 1967. Though the bad had subsequent albums and hits, they never ever were able to duplicate the creativity and impact of their first. Many claim that Morrison's destrucitve lifestyle was why. I in essence, I pretty much agree.
There is filler on this album including:
Crystal Ship, Alabama Song, End of the Night, and Take it as it Comes.....
The rest of the album, have all had a lot of air play, classic, and back in the time. Almost everyone should recognize "Light My Fire", which is pretty much considered the band's signature main stream hit.
But the song I want to highlight is "The End"
As a 14 year old kid, I was listening to Beaker Street on KAAY late one night, this 11 1/2 minute epic came on. THe DJ's supposedly like to take breaks :cool:. And how better than spin a tune like this one, or Alice's Restaurant.
As a naive kid, what I heard from Morrison, was beyond strange, beyond comprehension, beyond social understanding. I did not think a mind would or could delve into such levels of despair and sickness. Funny, how 50+ years of perspective can change the understanding of lyricism. Relating beyond the literal, into literary imagery was not in the mindset of a 14 year old. I hear it now, though no less sick, is a poetic masterpiece. Who knows what went into the interpretation of this Morrison piece, and to best of my knowledge, he never did any synopsis of its intent or what he meant. Hell, it may have been a drug induced psychodelic vision, all we know. But we will never know.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dl-htFNTDKk (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dl-htFNTDKk)
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Soul Kitchen (Live)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UPvw9EvMDTE)
The Doors were a decade ahead of their time.
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When the Music's Over
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wAfevVSdWBw)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- The Beatles - Sargent Pepper's Lonley Hearts Club Band (1967) *****
My great interest in Rock started on Christmas 1965, aged 8 when I received as a gift Meet the Beatles. Can't remember whether it came from my parents or my Aunt and Uncle, but I flat out wore that LP to a crackling mess.
As a rock band, none can probably claim to be more iconic as The Beatles. Their history is well documented in so many places, it would be pointless for me to cover. From '62 to most of '66 the Band took a formula of fabulous songwriting rockers and ballads that made them not only a charting band, but a chart dominating band. I understand there was a point in their early history that they held all 5 of the billboard top spots. Uncanny pretty much in the era of vinyl, and '45's.
But something historic happened on May 26, 1967. The Beatles produced an album, so different, so strange, so bizarre, that the mainstream crtics went nuts, and mostly panned as a self destructive move intended to alienate their fan base.
But, what actually happened was the birth of Psychedelia. In modern rock review, this now is considered a top 5 GOAT. This album has a hypnotic mesmerizing feel to it, that transverses anything close that they had ever done before. Yes, a few months earlier Rubber Soul and Revolver touch a slight bit on what was to come, but this was the full fury of massive change of direction musically.
And damn... every song is a classic. And sadly, because the Beatles catalog is monitored like a speed trap on YT, there is no chance of providing an entire copy of the LP for listening.
So, instead I will include what I feel are the 3 greatest, most iconic songs for this classic.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=usNsCeOV4GM (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=usNsCeOV4GM)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=naoknj1ebqI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=naoknj1ebqI)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VtXl8xAPAtA (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VtXl8xAPAtA)
And what was so exciting about this era, The Beatles came up with an extension of this genre with Magical Mystery Tour. an Icon in its own right.
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Lovely Rita
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eqe_yLT8wd4)
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I truthfully wasn't as plugged into the Beatles after Rubber Soul and Revolver. I however paint pictures in my mind (no drugs involved) to go along with the music. Sgt. Peppers was one of the best to paint along with. That says a lot for the lyrics.
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I truthfully wasn't as plugged into the Beatles after Rubber Soul and Revolver. I however paint pictures in my mind (no drugs involved) to go along with the music. Sgt. Peppers was one of the best to paint along with. That says a lot for the lyrics.
In that regard, Magical Mystery Tour is underrated.
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In that regard, Magical Mystery Tour is underrated.
I almost consider Magical Mystery Tour as a continuation album of Sgt. Peppers. Same meter, same psychodelic theming, same nonsensical theming and intent. A masterpiece, just a hair of notch less than its predecessor.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Aerosmith- Toys in the Attic (1975). ****
Most rock fans have a particular favorite of theirs when it comes to the "Coming of Age Topic". Yeah this was blaring on the 8 track and soundtrack during my youthful indoctrination into sin and debauchery. Aerosmith has had a long and illusterous career. It has been uneven ride, but there was a period of time in '74 and '75 with "Get Your Wings and this one, that there was no doubt, they were among the royalty of Rock bands at the time.
Toys is more consistent and less filler than Get Your Wings, but I will have to admit their remake of Train Kept a Rollin' is my favorite in their catalog. In any case, this is a fantastic album, and if you want one that best exemplies their talents as hard rockers..... This is the one.
Side 1
Toys in the Attic- Bombastic, Chaotic, and bad ass. The band awesomely and innovatively syncs 2 guitars and a bass into one hook induced riff meister. Perry also does some fantastic solo work mid way 2
Uncle Salty- Boys take it down a couple of notches, in a semi-bluesy tune, that has some decent late song harmonies. Not near the best on the LP, but not filler either. 7
Adam's Apple- Another Solid Rocker, but as far as overall quality with the full album, lower tier. 6
Walk this Way- Vocal gymastics from Tyler, in this very famous tune. As far as I know this was the first sampled rock song by the Rap community 4
Big 10 Inch- Band decides to try without success to do a 40's swing number that is just mostly silly sexual innuendo. Worst part of the LP- 9
Side 2
Sweet Emotion- This one very song almost defines Rock in 1975. Even the movie Dazed and Confused played it in its entirety. For every BeeGees and KC and the Sunshine song, this one was there to counter the stench. The reversed sounding percussion added to the bombing melody line are unique. And are permanently ingrained into our pscyhe of the era. 1
No More No More- After being winded after Sweet Emotion, this Boogie Woogie based keyboards perfectly augments this awesome hard rocking tune, just keeps the buzz going. 3
Round and Round- Another really good solid rocker. Really good Perry solo work, under almost a metal like base, and bass for that matter- 5
You See Me Crying- All of you know that with a few exceptions, I am not into Rock Ballads. Unfortunately this is what we get at the close of the LP. There is some redeeming solo work by Perry at the end of the song. But meh... for the most part. 8
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bKEx9R0w5nI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bKEx9R0w5nI)
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This was the first album I bought as age 11. On 8-track. And these two songs are still my favorites of Aerosmith:
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nnAfohat3Qo)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=394kUMWTygM)
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This was the first album I bought as age 11. On 8-track. And these two songs are still my favorites of Aerosmith:
Great Tunes... Here is my favorite in their entire catalog. Recorded a year earlier on "Get Your Wings"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_EvGn22Mplg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_EvGn22Mplg)
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Great tune.
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Blowing the Dust off the Vinyl- Decades later- Aerosmith- Rocks (1976). *** 1/2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cw1Tqsm0Wlg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cw1Tqsm0Wlg)
I know I just reviewed Toys in the Attic, but got a little curious about others. I bought this album in 1976, and remember being highly disappointed. Looking at my vinyl record it is almost pristine.
So, I decided to slap it onto the turntable for the first time it probably 40+ years. To might surprise, it is dang good, and a lot better than I remember. I am guessing that the bar must have been pretty high then. Yes, was there a drop off in quality after "Toys In the Attic"? Yeah, but there aren't too many albums more iconic than that one in that era. What really strikes me, is that Steven Tyler's voice becomes and sounds so much commanding than in previous efforts. It is well documented that this was in the absolute height of their drug abuse era, but is sure doesn't reflect in the sound of the band.
The entire album is quite good, but suggested cuts IMO of greatness......
(1) Sick as a Dog
(2) Back in the Saddle
(3) Lick and a Promise (Perry Guitar work)
As far as radio air play, Last Child is probably the only one you might remember.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Pink Floyd- Dark Side of the Moon (1973) ****
First the disclaimers... (1) I have always liked Pink Floyd, (2) have considered them in my four legged chaired stool of the greatest congregate musicans in rock history that includes.... (Rush, Emerson Lake, and Palmer, Yes, Pink Floyd) (3). With that, I was never really a stoner, so maybe there are aspects of PF that went unappreciated on my behalf. (4) Yes, they are among the pioneers of prog. (5) Finally, and I say this with respect, I think the "P' in Pink Floyd stands for Pretentious. Sometimes I felt band took their spacy, etheral prog to unnecessary heights that really lost the common listener.
Pink Floyd has a pretty extensive catalog, and they were very prolific in the late '60's and early '70's. But no album of theirs ever reached this level of titanship as DSTOM. Many view this album loosly as an early concept LP, I guess the theme of mental degredation due to modern technology could be inferred, but IMO, this work was mostly for "Trippy" value.
Stylisticly, they are all over the map, in a pretty spectacular fashion. It is a masterpiece, as in the fact that this is the longest charting album in rock history. It was on the Top 200 from March 17, 1973 to July 15, 1988. Consecutively charting for an incredible 741 weeks. No one has even come close to that feat.
So slap on the headphones, and get ready for the trip......
Side 1-
Speak to Me- Stoner's prep.... SFX starter to get them in the mood I guess. Not sure how this enters into the equation. Maybe someone might share? 7
Breathe- Nice balladish tune soft rocking, and a notice that PF has upped their orcherstral skills in production. I have friends who say this song was like their Sgt. Pepper moment. 4
On the Run- Even without the herbal aids, this piece is trippy as hell. Eyes closed and headphones on, you just might find yourself witnessing a Roswell ship crash. :silly: 2
Time- The phase in from On the Run, to Time, is the highlight of the album. As the chimes toll, you are treated to muscial tour-de-blast. Gilmour's solo work on this tune is special, and really seals the deal. Their early fusing of a soul chorus was so innovative at the time. And now so copied. 1
The Great Gig in the Sky- The Soul choir grinds it further, Huge PF fans loved it. I wished they had stuck with the script. Just me I guess. 5
Side 2-
Money- The hit tune everyone remembers. Really like the song- Very innovative pre-funkish feel and masterful musical chops here. Message was awesome too. For a concept album that was to. focus on technological dangers to life, they sure liked to wander off. Hey, but who doesn't want a rock band to preach to us about the dangers of monetary excesses. 3
Us and Them- PF fans might slam me for this, but as much as a classic they like to think this tune to be, it is a lullaby for me. ZZZZZZZZZ!!!!!! No doubt, great musical feat, but not my cup of tea. 10
Any Colour You Like- More instumental more of the same, some jazz influenced sync stuff too. Meh. 6
Brain Damage- Ditto, with summation 8
Eclipse- Effective finale. But still, if you aren't a hard core fan, I like to listen to Side 1, Money, and then put the vinyl back into sleeve. 9
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hh1Xyvu68P0 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hh1Xyvu68P0)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Pink Floyd- Dark Side of the Moon (1973)
@catfish1957
Pink Floyd,Blues from the 25th Century.
The group Pink Floyd and the individual named "Steve Winwood" are,in MY opinion,the finest musicians that have ever lived.
Sure,there ARE others who have produced excellent music,and some of it even approached being a good as SOME of what PF and Winwood put out,but nobody topped them when it came to musical genius and creativity.
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Your opinion of Styx was the same as mine and my friends at the time. Love those albums that you listed. And then when Kilroy was Here came out, it was a huge letdown
Styx songs are properly ranked in inverse order of Dennis DeYoung's presence. One of the most annoying voices in "rock". Glad to see he's rightly despised!
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Blowing the Dust off the Vinyl- Decades later- Aerosmith- Rocks (1976)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cw1Tqsm0Wlg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cw1Tqsm0Wlg)
I know I just reviewed Toys in the Attic, but got a little curious about others. I bought this album in 1976, and remember being highly disappointed. Looking at my vinyl record it is almost pristine.
So, I decided to slap it onto the turntable for the first time it probably 40+ years. To might surprise, it is dang good, and a lot better than I remember. I am guessing that the bar must have been pretty high then. Yes, was there a drop off in quality after "Toys In the Attic"? Yeah, but there aren't too many albums more iconic than that one in that era. What really strikes me, is that Steven Tyler's voice becomes and sounds so much commanding than in previous efforts. It is well documented that this was in the absolute height of their drug abuse era, but is sure doesn't reflect in the sound of the band.
The entire album is quite good, but suggested cuts IMO of greatness......
(1) Sick as a Dog
(2) Back in the Saddle
(3) Lick and a Promise (Perry Guitar work)
As far as radio air play, Last Child is probably the only one you might remember.
Nice review! Back in the Saddle is one of my favorite Aerosmith tunes. Great mix of blues/rock with a hint of funk.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Aerosmith- Toys in the Attic (1975)
Most rock fans have a particular favorite of theirs when it comes to the "Coming of Age Topic". Yeah this was blaring on the 8 track and soundtrack during my youthful indoctrination into sin and debauchery. Aerosmith has had a long and illusterous career. It has been uneven ride, but there was a period of time in '74 and '75 with "Get Your Wings and this one, that there was no doubt, they were among the royalty of Rock bands at the time.
Toys is more consistent and less filler than Get Your Wings, but I will have to admit their remake of Train Kept a Rollin' is my favorite in their catalog. In any case, this is a fantastic album, and if you want one that best exemplies their talents as hard rockers..... This is the one.
Side 1
Toys in the Attic- Bombastic, Chaotic, and bad ass. The band awesomely and innovatively syncs 2 guitars and a bass into one hook induced riff meister. Perry also does some fantastic solo work mid way 2
Uncle Salty- Boys take it down a couple of notches, in a semi-bluesy tune, that has some decent late song harmonies. Not near the best on the LP, but not filler either. 7
Adam's Apple- Another Solid Rocker, but as far as overall quality with the full album, lower tier. 6
Walk this Way- Vocal gymastics from Tyler, in this very famous tune. As far as I know this was the first sampled rock song by the Rap community 4
Big 10 Inch- Band decides to try without success to do a 40's swing number that is just mostly silly sexual innuendo. Worst part of the LP- 9
Side 2
Sweet Emotion- This one very song almost defines Rock in 1975. Even the movie Dazed and Confused played it in its entirety. For every BeeGees and KC and the Sunshine song, this one was there to counter the stench. The reversed sounding percussion added to the bombing melody line are unique. And are permanently ingrained into our pscyhe of the era. 1
No More No More- After being winded after Sweet Emotion, this Boogie Woogie based keyboards perfectly augments this awesome hard rocking tune, just keeps the buzz going. 3
Round and Round- Another really good solid rocker. Really good Perry solo work, under almost a metal like base, and bass for that matter- 5
You See Me Crying- All of you know that with a few exceptions, I am not into Rock Ballads. Unfortunately this is what we get at the close of the LP. There is some redeeming solo work by Perry at the end of the song. But meh... for the most part. 8
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bKEx9R0w5nI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bKEx9R0w5nI)
Another great review! I'd personally flip Toys in the Attic and Sweet Emotion, but I get that's a minority view. That little extra bit of chaos just makes it more interesting to me.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Kiss- Destroyer (1976)
How about a curve ball? Expect me to come out with a Kiss Album. Well first the negatives... Kiss were atrocious musicans. Everything from 1973-1975 was a garage band crap. 10,000 other garage bands could have made any complation of drivel that came from this group early on. So why was this one of the biggest bands in the Country in the mid 1970's. They took the shock schtick mantle from Alice Cooper, and exploited it, like no had ever before.
But....
The boys borrowed who I feel is the most underated Producers all time for their 1976 work. Bob Ezrin. Ezrin previously took an gawd awful "Prettys for You" era Alice Cooper, and made them respectable, on every angle of song writing, musicanship, with that flare for showmanship. The album Destroyer almost seems like a once in a lifetime creative epiphany for the band, and they put together this very solid effort. As with all Kiss albums, there are massive amounts of innuendo, and lyrical sharing of the Rock and Roll lifestyle.
So with that, here is a producer inspired band, who infused some great production values, and backed off the amps from "11" to "10". And since this has some of the most innovative "hooks" (thanks to Ezrin), I'll spare the song details, and rank the tunes that aren't filler.
Side 1-
Detroit Rock City- 3
King of the Nightime World- 1
God of Thunder- 7
Side 2-
Flaming Youth- 5
Sweet Pain- 4
Shout it Out Loud- 2
Do You Love Me- 6
Filler -
Great Expectations (Side 1)
Beth (Side 2). Yes, this was their biggest hit on the LP, but is one awful syrupy crappy ballad. Who bought this shit?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m50uOTpfib0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m50uOTpfib0)
This was like the 3rd or 4th album I bought as a kid and, well ..I'd still like my money back. Lol. But probably the best of their output.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Deep Purple- Machine Head (1972)
Before Eddie Van Halen set the bar for being the ultimate Ax narcissist, there was Richie Blackmore. Back in the day, there weren't many bands bigger than Deep Purple. In fact they held No. 2 billing in the 1974 California Jam behind ELP. Very talented band that suffered from the iron fisted control of Blackmore. That fist caused unfortuate lineup changes. But this one in particular, was them at their pinnacle.
If he'd had any care for the legacy of this band, there wouldn't be any Rainbow tangents, or other temper tantrums.
Purple, still had to live in the shadow of Led Zeppelin, and from what I read at the time really grated on Richie Blackmore. What really makes me dig this era of Purple, was Jon Lord, (again IMO) behind Emerson and Wakeman, the greatest rock keyboardsman of all time. And in this particular album he smokes it. In any case, if you want an example of Deep Purple at its best, this is the trick.
Side 1
Highway Star- Right out of the gates rocking- Great tune, with all members clicking on all cylinders. Jon Lord's (example 1) organ solo is fantiastic. Blackmore does some nice solo work at the end too. 3
Maybe I'm a Leo- Funky Blusey number that if you put Morrison's voice on it, you might think it was the Doors. Another solid effort- 5
Pictures of Home- Another good one. This one particular highlight's Paice's excellent percussion runs. I love how Giliam interphases sub-screams, sometimes in almost Robert Plant fashion. Sometimes you wonder how much the Yardbirds/Zep truly influenced Deep Purple. Glover does a fine solo at the end too. This is maybe the best tune on the LP showcasing the band's talents. Not the best written one, but maybe the best technically 6
Never Before- Another foray into a funky-blusey arena. Might be the weakest of a super strong album. And that is no knock on this tune, it rocks as does the others. - 7
Side 2-
Smoke on The Water- Opening power riffs are the most recognizable in the entire history of Rock. If you don't recognize those riffs or this song, you have probably wandered into the wrong thread. Bad ass song, but like many in my opinion grate on you after hearing it 50,000 times. Glover's thunderous bass work often gets overlooked in this mainstay of classic rock radio. 4
Lazy- I mentioned earlier that I felt Jon Lord was the 3rd best in rock history on the ivories. But given the fact the other two are better (Emerson and Wakeman) are highly prog driven, and peg out the pretentious factor. Jon Lord in this particular effort made what I feel is the greatest straight out hammond organ driven blues rock in roll song in history. 2
Space Truckin'- Lost in the catalog of Machine behind SOTW, is what I feel is the gem of the entire career of Deep Purple. Song has aged great through the sands of time. This one brings out the Beavis and Butthead in us. YEAH!!! YEAH !!! YEAH!!! SPACE TRUCKING!!!!!! 1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hMCVe0cs4DI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hMCVe0cs4DI)
Damn you write good reviews. This was my very first album. I think I was in 7th grade or something when I got it. I'd flip Highway Star and Lazy, but I can't argue with what you said about Jon Lord. Blackmore gets the headlines, but that Glover/Paice rhythm section was bad-ass. I also really liked Gillan's voice - couldn't stand Coverdale in comparison.
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Nice review! Back in the Saddle is one of my favorite Aerosmith tunes. Great mix of blues/rock with a hint of funk.
Thanks...
Love hearing opinions of classic rock from others. Music was so special then. There's about a 1000 I'd like to review if I had the time. Additions are appreciated, so please partiicpate.
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Classic Album of the Day- Rush-2112
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wPpQWyMjQ-s (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wPpQWyMjQ-s)
There is no argument that Rush did not invent Prog Music. However, in 1976 this trio of Canadians maybe gave the genre is most powerful redefinition in said genre's history. Rush in their 1st 2 albums pretty much went with a Zep formula of hard rock tunes that provided some minor hits and a strong but finite following. In album No. 3 (early 1976 Caress of Steel) they jumped into the progressive forum but with dismal critical and commercial success. Even us most ardent Rush fans have to admit that there is a hard and uneven feel to the sound. It seemed to channel Yes, but was forced and IMO mostly unlistenable (with a few exceptions). BUT.... the seeds were planted of future greatness.
Rush documentaries have stated that this bomb put the band on notice, and that the next one would be a make or break LP. The band thumbed their nose at the record companies, and under pressure created this masterpiece. This album's legacy is remarkable, and in almost every compliation of greatest Prog albums of all time...... This one makes their Top 10 List.
Side 1- 2112- A 7 part (20 minute) masterpiece that Neil Peart composed lyrics from aspiration of Ayn Rand's Fountain Head and Anthem. The song's theme is around a dystopian society that dictates all thought and actions of their minions. A group of hierarchal Priests (The Solar Federation) control society, and expect the population to bow and obey. The hero of the story accidentaly finds himself in something like a cave, and then finds an ancient guitar. He randomly strums, then tunes the device and suddenly gets excited with sounds it makes as music. In his excitement he brings it to the attention of the Priests who poo-poo the concept as useless relics of an earlier era. Our hero gets despondent, and it is perceived that this has triggerd a revolt. The Solar Federation puts the thumb down on the insurgents, and extol at the end after the attack..... THAT THEY ARE IN CONTROL......
Even back then I had a strong political bent, I considered this more like a Sci-Fi story than an important message. 2112 today has so much more meaning and value to us than ever. The dystopia that Peart/ Rand warn are closer than we think. Granted Peart softened his Libertarain stances later in life, after decades of left shaming from the communist music industry, and his own personal tragedies.
Musically, 2112 has such a extreme different sound that doesn't even remotely resemble the 1st three albums. All 3 members hone their skills and are at least twice as good muscially on every angle. This was also the point that Mr. Peart started getting noticed for his percussion prowess, and among the best at his trade. Geddy Lee's voice seemed fuller and less shrill. He no longer wanted to be a Robert Plant clone, and brought rangeand tone that augmented the music beautifully. All 3 members are jaw dropping fabulous in working the tunes in a powerful manner. If you have never listened to this album.... Do yourself a favor and at least listen to Side 1.
Side 2-
Where Side 1 was in Full Concept Mode, Side 2 focused on more traditonal fare.
Passage to Bangkok- Rush had 19 albums, and this one single tune is the only one that was drug themed over that 40 year period. Great Lifeson solo at the end. A fan favorite of the 420 set.
The Twilight Zone- Geddy goes high octave on the band's tribute to this classic TV show. Maybe the weakest tune on the LP, but still a decent song.
Lessons- Besides 2112, my favorite cut from the LP. Beautiful chordal progressions, intertwined with alternating heavy riffs. Peart's least complex part on the LP. But the way Lee/Lifeson blend their parts? Fantastic. I know other Rush fans like this tune less, but in my book... A pure gem.
Tears- Was blown away how two consecutive songs so beautiful could be so different on a melodic level.. From Uplifting to meloncolly on the turn of a dime. This is one of very few of what I would call "rock ballads" in Rush's extensive catalog.
Something For Nothing- Just to make sure prior Rush fans were made happy, this tune was included. It's style would make you swear it came from "Fly By Night". IMO- 3rd best song on the LP. A very rocking tune, and an add to many Rush concert play lists in the late '70's.
The band always called this album their piviotal turning point in their career. No longer did they have to bend to the whims of record company executives, and now had full artistic control over their musical content. Without 2112 there would not be no Moving Pictures, Permanent Waves, or Farwell to Kings.
Love this album and review. Only quibble is that I think you're misread the ending of 2112. It isn't the bad guys/Solar Federation winning, but rather the the "good guys". The voices at the end are those of the men who previously left Earth ("they left our planet long ago, the elder race to learn and grow....)" finally returning to the planet. They see what the Priests have done, and they put a stop to it.
Heard Peart confirm that once in an interview, which kind of makes the song even better because it is a hopeful ending.
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This was my very first album. I think I was in 7th grade or something when I got it. I'd flip Highway Star and Lazy, but I can't argue with what you said about Jon Lord. Blackmore gets the headlines, but that Glover/Paice rhythm section was bad-ass. I also really liked Gillan's voice - couldn't stand Coverdale in comparison.
Spot on....
Can you imagine what the legacy of Deep Purple would look like if Blackmore could have kept this line up together. In my earlier review, I wish I had mentioned the immediate addition of "Made in Japan". I never got to see Purple in concert, but I put this work in 2nd place of all Live Rock albums behind The Who's Live at Leeds.
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Love this album and review. Only quibble is that I think you're misread the ending of 2112. It isn't the bad guys/Solar Federation winning, but rather the the "good guys". The voices at the end are those of the men who previously left Earth ("they left our planet long ago, the elder race to learn and grow....)" finally returning to the planet. They see what the Priests have done, and they put a stop to it.
Heard Peart confirm that once in an interview, which kind of makes the song even better because it is a hopeful ending.
I see your point, and I think you are right, Maybe I am jaded by watching the comic version that has been attached to 2112 that seems to give it the more sinister ending .
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w5jwxrTqoEA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w5jwxrTqoEA)
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Styx songs are properly ranked in inverse order of Dennis DeYoung's presence. One of the most annoying voices in "rock". Glad to see he's rightly despised!
The only exception to that would be “Lady”. He was pretty great on that song. Of course, Tommy Shaw’s background vocals sure helped.
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Thanks...
Love hearing opinions of classic rock from others. Music was so special then. There's about a 1000 I'd like to review if I had the time. Additions are appreciated, so please partiicpate.
I'm basically a prog guy but still love a lot of classic rock. Aerosmith, Zep, Bad Company, all that stuff. Loved your Leftoverture review.
YouTube has been a gold mine for fans of older music that can really open some musical doors. Been watching tons of interviews and some live performances I hadn't seen. The interviews really are great when bands like Yes, etc. discuss how they got started on their particular paths, etc..
Never was a huge fan of Black Sabbath, but I saw a cut of War Pigs from a 1970 show in Paris that was just jaw-dropping, so I finally "got it" with them.
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I'm basically a prog guy but still love a lot of classic rock. Aerosmith, Zep, Bad Company, all that stuff. Loved your Leftoverture review.
YouTube has been a gold mine for fans of older music that can really open some musical doors. Been watching tons of interviews and some live performances I hadn't seen. The interviews really are great when bands like Yes, etc. discuss how they got started on their particular paths, etc..
Never was a huge fan of Black Sabbath, but I saw a cut of War Pigs from a 1970 show in Paris that was just jaw-dropping, so I finally "got it" with them.
I know about what you mean about YT being a gold mine. I've found so many fascinating things that just couldn't believe.
And I don't think I have shared this before, but my most used YT item is a 6 hour (ad free :cool:) 62 song compilation of 20 years of Live Rush. Has about 80% of that era's songs that matter. I have probably put more hours on this one particular YT piece than any other.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RYx5AOMtwU0 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RYx5AOMtwU0)
And to the topic of Black Sabbath, when I first heard them in 1970/71 , Paranoid and Master of Reality, I was floored. Got to remember back that before that era, pretty much everything was post Sgt. Pepper- Magical Mystery Tour clones and flowery, hippy stuff.
In that 1969-71 timeframe Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath, Alice Cooper, and to a degree Deep Purple brought joyful 110 db distorted, sternum and jaw vibrating rock that just was like nothing before. I now agree that a bunch of it is outdated and inane, but deep in the crevices of this genre was the seeds of change that thankfully the '60's were over. And this music defined it, maybe more than any other musical direction.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Frank Zappa- Apostrophe (') (1974) ****
Really switching gears today, with a dose of the strange. Zappa had a ton of albums during his life (62 studio albums) , and he was literally all over the map in theme, style, and overall music product. He sure doesn't have that awfully wide of an audience base, but that was the true nature of the Zappa persona. He never cared what critics or even what his fans thought. The thing is, Zappa may have been the one most intelligent person in Rock history. I've heard his IQ was 190, and if you ever listen to his numerous interviews, he sure drummed to a different drummer,...... but there was no doubting his brilliances, insight and passion on what he believed. He and Gore Vidal may the most left of center feared debate opponents ever.
Additionally, though he may have been indifferent to critics and fans Zappa may have been the most versatile songwriters ever. He mastered every genre, almost toying with each. Jazz, rock, blues, soul, country....yeah it was all there in certain doses. What I am covering is his best. Not only commerically, but technically, and lyrically. What puts the icing on the cake, is Zapp's dry wry wit that he does on all his work..... This is the best. Absolutely hilarious at times. For the uninitiated, and if you are limited on time.... Focus on Side 1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oF9aJUePkNA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oF9aJUePkNA)
Side 1
Don't You Eat That Yellow Snow- Masterful time/signature changes and metering . Funny as hell, and a slow rolling jazz ditty. How often do you ever hear the term in music review of "jazz ditty". Yeah... Zappa at his best, that blends smoothly into...... 1
Nanook Rubs it- These first two can not be effectively decoupled. Crazy wild ax and horn runs intermingled with Zappa at his best hilarity. Genius comic lyricsm Great Googly Moogily!!!!!!! 1
Saint Alfonzo's Pancake Breakfast- First 2 nicely blends into this musical brilliant jazz infused laugh a minute tune. Some of the solo runs are mind boggling . Crazy good, and my favorite of highlighting the band as an emsemble. 2
Father O'Blivion- And again,,,,like phasing in like a well oiled machine. Blends in almost concept fashion, and a rocking clinic on musicanship. 3
Cosmik Debris- Zappa tones it down a tad into a bluesy jazzy number. The soulful choir in chorus is a bizarre but masterful touch. When you hear Zappa you just get amazed of how he comes up with this random stuff. His guitar blues solo at the end, just mysteriously throws the listener into what the hell, where did that come from. 4
Side 2-
Excentrigual Forz- More of Jazz/Rock fuse. As I said earlier, I thought there was a big differnce in quality between side 1 and 2. The opening number pretty much exemplifies it. Nothing bad as far as musicanship. By the end you are thinking Zappa is telling a conceptual story. That's all lost by here. 8
Apostrophe- A good solid rocking tune, that doesn't really sound like Zappa, and more like other MOR bands of the era. Still the best tune on this side. IMO. - 5
Uncle Remus- Zappa really didn't hit the mark too well on this rock /soul blend- No doubt solid musically, but not Zappa's best songwriting effort- 7
Stink-Foot- A bit of re-gurgitating of Side 1 style with rinky tink piano. Does have some pretty amazing humour and guitar work. Tune may be about 2 minutes too long. 6
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My favorite cover of my favorite Zappa tune by one of my favorite musicians, Dawayne Bailey.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JRge2V-K6yU
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Smashing Pumpkins- Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness (1995) *** 1/2
By the early 1990's, I tought 90+% of what I felt was great rock music was gone. Maybe me and my tastes had become a dinosaur of a long gone relic. Musical tastes are all subjective, so who is to say whether I was right or wrong. Grunge clones and Alpha Numeric Punk Bands had infilitrated the ubiqui-sphere, and M-tv had allowed that formula to sour to a stench of mediocrity. In 1975, a visit to the record store? I had to desperately pick between at least 20-30 LP's that I thought was worth my $6 investment. 1995? It was to challenge to find 1 new one I liked. By this time, I was mostly supplementing the "old stuff".
It is not the intent to be preachy on this review, and what it is, is a lead in to a band that was an exception to those times..... Smashing Pumpkins. SP's time in the limelight was short. They provided a unique sound that was a variable of fuzz metal, grunge and punk. Front man, Billy Corgan basically provided 95% of the songwriting, songmaking, and inspiration. Though SP still exist, the band as a serious rock act only existed 1991-2000, centering on 5 albums of varying quality. I only recommend 2 of these- Siamese Dream in 1993, and this work.
What makes Mellen Collie?....... It is its special mystical dream like aura and strangeness First, strange on its length. It was a double-CD, and in its viny re-release, was a Triple album. As far as I know this is the only studio rock album in this configuation. All the rest are compliations or live. Also strange on content. There are plenty of heavy heavy tunes, and some into the foray of thrash metal. There are also tons of softer crooned stuff for balance. Some good, and a lot of filler in that department This is obviously Corgan's swan song, and he wears his lyrics of despair, anger, and disgust on his sleeves like a badge.
And last, I sure as heck was not going to rank the tunes on content. This CD is 28 tracks and 2 hours long. Instead I will rate them 1-5 asterisks.
Disc 1-
Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness- In our minds, this beautiful piano instrumental opening was raising our eyebrows. Lurking mellontron, gives an eery feel, and was a harbringer of what was to come with this classic. ****
Tonight, Tonight- Great songwriting skills in force. Drums rolling while more mello work. Orchestrations augment very nicely. Corgan takes us on our first roller coaster ride of emotion. In some ways I think the intent is a schizo theme. I have not seen any Corgan interviews on the stylistic aspects, so, hell it might just be random- *****
Jelly Belly- Now, we are back into familar SP territory. If Corgan hadn't given us our sternum buzzing fuzz, there might have been a coup. Chaos Pumpkin , oh yeah.... *****
Zero- One of the best tunes on this work. Instrumental airplay intertwined with some of Corgan's most depressing and dispair lyriscm. There are some Sound effects to this day included that I can't figure. Best guess? I guess he is grinding his pick on the grooves of the strings. In any case it just compounds the sounds of rage and anger. *****
Here is No Why- Middle of the Road stuff, nothing to highlight. ***
Bullet With Butterfly Wings- The best on the album. I don't think I have ever heard a song that screams despair more than this one. Even Metallica couldn't create a song this depressing. Band alternates nicely with rolling rocking bass-lined fare, and breaks out in all hell breaks lose in alternate fashion. This was the non-pop hit like that got the airplay. *****
To Forgive- Sad Sad....ballad. I understand how it fits in, with the intent of the theme of the album, and if you like this aspect of their style, I know you'll love it. I just don't **
An Ode to no one- Boom... The band takes us back on the rollercoaster. This is as good as any of the thrash-metal that would be prevalent in the industry in the 00's. ****
Love- May be the strangest tune on the album. Corgan takes a fuzz distort-o approach on a slow rolling rocker. This song almost has a "White Album" feel to it. Thumbs up. *****
Cupid DeLocke- More strangeness. Dreamy like, harp infused love ballad. Melodic lines are unique. By this time, you can tell Corgan is showing off. ****
Galapagos- Another low key ballad that misses the mark though. i guess you can't expect 28 gems. **
Muzzle- Another one of my favorites on this one. This one sounds like it could have come directly from Siamese Dream. Perfect blend of Corgan guitar buzzed/distortion, and solid supporting cast. Love these rolling drum fills as they augment some of SP's best. *****
Porcelina of Vast Oceans- Not every ballad in this work is good. Corgan comes across and whiney and sappy in this drop off. Some redemptive nice riffs at the end, but by 2/3 the song being over, ya lost me Billy. *
Take Me Down- See Porecelina above, but even worse. Sadly Disc 1 ends with a whimper. *
Disc 2-
Where the Boys to Fear to Tread- Hell Yeah... Back to rocking. Nothing unique or special here, but at least Billy wasn't whining. ***
Bodies- happy77. True story, and probably happened to others- The first time I played this, the sound effects at the beginning of this song, sounded like my CD player was chewing up my CD. Thankfully, not. Really good tune, and par for the Pumpkins on their other solid efforts on this album. And yes ,the despair continues. Makes you wonder about Corgan. ****
Thirty-Three- At first hearing it might appear to be another sappy ballad, but the way Corgan infuses the slide guitar and salt shaker percussion gives this a standing hair on your arm feel to this one. SP knew how to do strange. ***
In the Arms of Sleep- More strangeness- Corgan takes almost a southern rocker motif on this one. Complete with what appears to be dogs barking in the background. Got to wonder what kind of drugs were being used in those sessions. ***
1979- The well known almost pop hit from this album- One thing on this one from my perspective. It was the cold slap in the face that rockers younger than I was, were doing songs about their reminiscent past. 1979? Hell, I was already out of college by then. Docked 1 star for making me feel old. ***
Tales of Scorched Earth- Song 100% delivers on its title. This song was way ahead of its time. Slash-industrial-Speed Metal on an incredibly talented level. Those future slashers had nothing talent wise on this classic. Why this one doesn't get some classic air play, defies my logic. *****
Thru the Eyes of Ruby- Interesting, Corgan seems to have composed an almost '70's like AOR type tune that morphs into SP-ish Fuzz. Nice touch. ***
Stumbleine- Sappy ballad with no redeeming value- *
X.Y.U.- Ah, the roller coaster has take us back up the slope- By now, Corgan's anger has gotten me fatigued. ***
We Only Come Out at Night- Maybe the one strangest song ever made by the Smashing Pumpkins. Back drop melody- A zither, single percussion? A Tam. Piano is added for front sided melody. Are the Pumpkins vampires? Simple, lyrics, simple melody. I don't know why, but this song has like a hypnotic hold, that I just dig. *****
Beautiful- Ugh.... Billy, what was the point of this? *
Lily- Ugh (part 2)- 25 tracks in, I guess they were desperate for filler. *
By Starlight- More weakness, but maybe not quite as bad as the prior 2, due to some spooky unique back fill in at the end. **
Farewell and Goodnight- Well this ends the rollercoaster. Ending tune continues the ending theme of sap. I understand that Corgan wanted to make an epic blended album that showcased all aspects of their talents. The atypical SP heavy stuff was great and it worked. The balladry OTOH, only hit the mark so 30% of the time. But still, this is an album well worth a listen, if you have never heard it. **
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fbGkxfgRLvc (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fbGkxfgRLvc)
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Uncle Remus
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HNEtjL_qOl8)
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RiP Jeff Beck (1944-2023). Whe I list out the top 10 GOAT guitarist, depending on my mood, I always have hie somewhere in the 5-10 slot
This is my favorite of his work....
Line up on this recording? Jeff Beck, Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones, Keith Moon, and Nicky Hopkins. How about that?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nmO0OZC6Ifk (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nmO0OZC6Ifk)
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Damn this is getting old.... another Obit.
RIP Robbie Bachman (1953-2023) drummer of BTO, and brother to frontman, and guitarist of BTO, Randy Bachman
Recommend the 2nd through the 4th albums ('73-'75) for their best fare.
Though Taking Care of Business is their most recognizable, and biggest overall fan favorite, my personal favorite is this one from BTO II
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vQDsmJ7_gBg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vQDsmJ7_gBg)
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A tribute to Robbie Bachman
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bx8MqwTd0Yg)
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Damn this is getting old.... another Obit.
RIP Robbie Bachman (1953-2023) drummer of BTO, and brother to frontman, and guitarist of BTO, Randy Bachman
Recommend the 2nd through the 4th albums ('73-'75) for their best fare.
Though Taking Care of Business is their most recognizable, and biggest overall fan favorite, my personal favorite is this one from BTO II
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vQDsmJ7_gBg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vQDsmJ7_gBg)
“Let It Ride” is in my Top 10. Maybe even Top 5. It’s a flat-out great song.
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“Let It Ride” is in my Top 10. Maybe even Top 5. It’s a flat-out great song.
Great classic rock song.
I remember when my older brother got his BTO albums through the Columbia Record and Tape Club. 12 albums for only a dime, or whatever it was back then. Brought me up on that stuff!
However, a buddy of mine once referred to them as "Bachman-Turner Overweight", and I've never been able to get that out of my head since. Lol.
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However, a buddy of mine once referred to them as "Bachman-Turner Overweight", and I've never been able to get that out of my head since. Lol.
Yep, remember that.
I believe that term was coined by either Circus or Rolling Stone Magazine soon after II was released with huge success. I think the most prehistoric of "fat shaming" was a dig at Bachman for helping disband "The Guess Who". The rock critics back in the day were the most left wing of them all. And killing a band who took the communist concepted "Share the Land" (The Guess Who) to "Taking Care of Business (BTO) was blasphemy in their eyes.
The critics hated them, for no really good reason.
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This might be the ultimate 4 chorded hooked rock and roll song ever made in that era. So simple, so lyrically devoid, so uncomplex of substance, but so damned good...... it's like the Ramones play Happy Sabbath
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FHyrIe69L50 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FHyrIe69L50)
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Would have loved to have seen this....
Hard to believe half of them are dead now.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bUflCBraecQ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bUflCBraecQ)
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This might be the ultimate 4 chorded hooked rock and roll song ever made in that era. So simple, so lyrically devoid, so uncomplex of substance, but so damned good...... it's like the Ramones play Happy Sabbath
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FHyrIe69L50 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FHyrIe69L50)
I'm going to have to split with you on that one. Never really liked it, and skipped it on the record if I was close enough to move the stylus. Something like "Let it Ride" has that driving rhythm that kind of doesn't stop. So did Takin' Care of Business and some others. That rhythmic, boogie-band energy is the type of thing that can make a simple song into a very good song. Kind of like the Doobies did masterfully before they made the mistake of handing the keys to that ultra-smooth, easy-listening douchnozzle Michael McDonald. Okay, sorry I'm so opinionated on that. The McDonald-era Doobie are on my Yacht Rock hate list, and I'm irrational when it comes to that. And rather unpleasant. lol.
Anyway, on Hey You, after the opening -- which sounds like they just re-used the (very good) opening to "Let it Ride" with some minor changes -- that verse ("Hey you, you say you wanna change the world....") just slows down and sucks all the energy out of the song, and it sounds really kind of plodding to me. No energy. Good when you get to the choruses, but I can't listen to the verses.
But, I'm an excessively picky prog guy, so everything I say needs to be heavily discounted.
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I'm going to have to split with you on that one. Never really liked it, and skipped it on the record if I was close enough to move the stylus. Something like "Let it Ride" has that driving rhythm that kind of doesn't stop. So did Takin' Care of Business and some others. That rhythmic, boogie-band energy is the type of thing that can make a simple song into a very good song. Kind of like the Doobies did masterfully before they made the mistake of handing the keys to that ultra-smooth, easy-listening douchnozzle Michael McDonald. Okay, sorry I'm so opinionated on that. The McDonald-era Doobie are on my Yacht Rock hate list, and I'm irrational when it comes to that. And rather unpleasant. lol.
Anyway, on Hey You, after the opening -- which sounds like they just re-used the (very good) opening to "Let it Ride" with some minor changes -- that verse ("Hey you, you say you wanna change the world....") just slows down and sucks all the energy out of the song, and it sounds really kind of plodding to me. No energy. Good when you get to the choruses, but I can't listen to the verses.
But, I'm an excessively picky prog guy, so everything I say needs to be heavily discounted.
@Maj. Bill Martin
Well put... It's maybe the "inane' aspects of the tune that in some ways appeals. Kind of like in my earlier "Ramones" analogy. In many ways like you, I am the ultimate prog-head. Rush is my favorite band, and bands like them, ELP, and Yes are purveyors of explosions of complexity and musicanship that nicely overwhelm the musical pallet. There is also a part of me that is fascinated by the ability to take the most simple, repetitive, and ridiculous product and give it substance and catchy structure.
A really good example is 15th-early 17th Century Medieval music. The tunes of the day were very configured proximally chromatically, and predicitve in form. They generally almost stoically resided in singular major Key, and within one octave. Still, when I hear them, they are very pleasant and are damned dateable, but still so powerful when put in orchestral form. It amazes me that the great composers of that era compared to tangent of Mozart and Beethoven are almost like comparing Early Punk with Prog. Here is a good example... A Praetorius composition from 1620.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ugabxslZqNk&list=PLk-IgAEKYl2yIqWQs4sCYcMtOxZ1t9_Ks&index=4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ugabxslZqNk&list=PLk-IgAEKYl2yIqWQs4sCYcMtOxZ1t9_Ks&index=4)
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@Maj. Bill Martin
Well put... It's maybe the "inane' aspects of the tune that in some ways appeals. Kind of like in my earlier "Ramones" analogy. In many ways like you, I am the ultimate prog-head. Rush is my favorite band, and bands like them, ELP, and Yes are purveyors of explosions of complexity and musicanship that nicely overwhelm the musical pallet. There is also a part of me that is fascinated by the ability to take the most simple, repetitive, and ridiculous product and give it substance and catchy structure.
A really good example is 15th-early 17th Century Medieval music. The tunes of the day were very configured proximally chromatically, and predicitve in form. They generally almost stoically resided in singular major Key, and within one octave. Still, when I hear them, they are very pleasant and are damned dateable, but still so powerful when put in orchestral form. It amazes me that the great composers of that era compared to tangent of Mozart and Beethoven are almost like comparing Early Punk with Prog. Here is a good example... A Praetorius composition from 1620.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ugabxslZqNk&list=PLk-IgAEKYl2yIqWQs4sCYcMtOxZ1t9_Ks&index=4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ugabxslZqNk&list=PLk-IgAEKYl2yIqWQs4sCYcMtOxZ1t9_Ks&index=4)
Interesting stuff. It's instrumentation we're not used to hearing, and then even within the limited key, there is at least some contra-melody in there to keep it interesting at least for a bit.
I'd imagine it would lose some of its appeal if you listened to a lot of it, which is probably why more complex stuff developed.
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Interesting stuff. It's instrumentation we're not used to hearing, and then even within the limited key, there is at least some contra-melody in there to keep it interesting at least for a bit.
I'd imagine it would lose some of its appeal if you listened to a lot of it, which is probably why more complex stuff developed.
Yes indeed, But instead of complexity, musical styles seem to ebb and flow with mood of the listener. Perhaps the apex of all music history is the late 18th Century, early 19th Century. Almost in tandem Mozart and Beethoven created almost unversially acclaimed, the greatest music ever composed from about 1770-1827.
Mozart strangely led most of his life in anonymity, while Beethoven was a rock star of his era. But both in most of the 1st half 1th century dominated orchestra and concert hall agendas. But by the later half of the 19th century, you saw a signifcantly more focus of compostion toward folk and ethnic tinged works. Offenbach's Orpheus "Can Can" (1858) is just one example. One can not hear that piece without thinking France. That transveresed elsewhere in Europe with other composers. (Sans. Schultz)
And again, I think the simplyfying of the orchestra sounds were more around rebuking the central European Pomp, Pretentious, and ostentation of that era.
Fast foward to our lifetimes, we saw very complex and intricate jazz turn into depression era folk, we saw prog art rock arguably devolve to punk. And ultimately everything into what may be the only music ever of no redeeming quality...... Rap.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Emerson Lake and Palmer- Pictures at an Exhibition (1971) ****
From the last few posts, you might have noticed that my guilty musical pleasure is Classical Music. Which honestly augments well with my favorite musical genre, Prog Rock. No one in the prog area did classical better than ELP. And though no one can claim ELP was the greatest band of all time, there can be arguments made that as a conglomerate they were the greatest musicans of all.
ELP has a limited fan base due to the their tendency to be ostentatious in the nature of the complexity of their music, or their tendency of focusing on the widzardry rather than content. Admittedly more than 75% of Tarkus was unlistenable as mumble jumble synthezizer goobly goop. Incredible musicanship, but head ache inducing. Pass on that particular album unless you area hard core ELP fan.
I am including this one for the fact that this is the one single album that introduced me to the Prog genre. And what Keith Emerson did in his interpreation of this Mussgorsky 19th Century classic is amazing. All tracks ex. 6, 12, and 13 are from the classical piece.
What I particularly love about this album is Emerson infusion of Church Organ. Which, by the way when used in the best acoustic conditons and setting is the most beautiful, hair raising, and chlling musical sound on earth.
Saddens be that 2/3 of this band are dead, but their legacy and greatness lives forever in the albums like this one, their Self Titled, and Brain Salad Surgery. Enjoy......
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7NAGTq_IJQ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7NAGTq_IJQ)
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Nut Rocker
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y30jjHw0ecw)
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Just out of curiosity, what is the opinion of the "other" ELP: Emerson, Lake and Powell?
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Just out of curiosity, what is the opinion of the "other" ELP: Emerson, Lake and Powell?
Had honestly about forgoten about this iteneration of ELP.
Powell, (just IMO) was more a session man, than a core player. Still that does not undersocre a sigificant resume that included many huge acts of the time. Then add the fact Palmer was (again, my opinion) a top 4 rock drummer of all time that is included in the list with Peart, Bohnam, and Moon. Still, I do understand that there are many out there who look at Cozy Powell as a technical equal.
OTOH, Powell's style typically fit better with a hard rock sound than prog. It all boils down to taste.
As far as comparing the embodied work, I had to look it up, found that he Powell version of ELP only had one studio LP in 1986. I remember listening to it long long ago, and loved Emerson's rendition of Gustav's Planets. But overall the feel of the LP was weak vs. earlier Emerson Lake and Palmer classics. Not Emerson's best songwriting effort.
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Had honestly about forgoten about this iteneration of ELP.
Powell, (just IMO) was more a session man, than a core player. Still that does not undersocre a sigificant resume that included many huge acts of the time. Then add the fact Palmer was (again, my opinion) a top 4 rock drummer of all time that is included in the list with Peart, Bohnam, and Moon. Still, I do understand that there are many out there who look at Cozy Powell as a technical equal.
OTOH, Powell's style typically fit better with a hard rock sound than prog. It all boils down to taste.
As far as comparing the embodied work, I had to look it up, found that he Powell version of ELP only had one studio LP in 1986. I remember listening to it long long ago, and loved Emerson's rendition of Gustav's Planets. But overall the feel of the LP was weak vs. earlier Emerson Lake and Palmer classics. Not Emerson's best songwriting effort.
Thanks for your reply @catfish1957 . You are very knowledgeable. I like both. But to me, at least, the Powell inclusion had a more "pop" sound. But...they did a bang up job f 8 Miles High. The Palmer version was far more ethereal for the most part.
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RIP David Crosby (1941-2023) died today at age 81.
Member of the Byrds (early) and later Crosby Stills, Nash, (And Young) were a huge folk/rock presence in the late 1960's that were characterized by finely crafted harmonies and the formula hippy themes of the day. Upper bill and draw at Monterry, Woodstock and other festivals.
From our sde of the pond, he definitely was a pioneer in the rock era.
From a musical perspective (non-lyric) this is probably his best and well known contribution....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Q3j-i7GLr0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Q3j-i7GLr0)
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Carry On
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yvEEv14bI_o)
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Thanks for your reply @catfish1957 . You are very knowledgeable. I like both. But to me, at least, the Powell inclusion had a more "pop" sound. But...they did a bang up job f 8 Miles High. The Palmer version was far more ethereal for the most part.
@berdie
Wow...
How danged spooky is that. You mentioning a song by Crosby and the Byrds before it is announced Crosby died.
I've got goose pimples
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Jethro Tull- Aqualung- (1971). *** 1/2
Got a little inspiration the other day giving thought to how Medevial music morphed and influenced latter day Baroque and Classical Periods, and ulitmately modern music. There really is only one rock band fits the bill and gives homage to music's ancient roots. That being Jethro Tull. Early classical pre-Baroque obviously did not have the meter, and elements of this prog band, but here its so beautfully tinged that there is no mistaking band leader Ian Anderson's intent.
Did not realize that outside Anderson JT, had a very turbulant amount of personnel changes through their history which before the Casino Circuit variety (now) recorded basically 1967-2012. And their true hay day was generally 1970-1980. 24 different players have been members on the band with Anderson, being the only constant. That flux has resulted in only those '70's classics only be desirable, except for the most rabit JT fan. Again, I know some hard core fans of this band, and they are proably throwing darts at me right now.
It was a tough choice for me to pick which album I wanted to revirew. For pure jam, and musicanship, Thick as a Brick (1972) is the obvious choice. But the hell breaking prog blast is truly lacking of hook, so the enjoyment is more aligned toward the fantastic solos and genre bending magic that happens. Anderson splits hairs between Olde English Folk, and Jazz, then rock in mind blowing succession. I liken Thick to Tarkus, minus the insane chaos. Like Tarkus which was produced about the same time, are masterful muscians on top of their craft. Just more madness to the method..
So instead, I'll go with the familar territory and popular choice of fans, Aqualung. Aqualung a year earlier, has more structure, is more rocking, and had a few hits that most of us will easily recognize from the time. In both, Anderson's flute work is spectacular. I am not a fan of the Flute, in Rock, but as far as JT is concerned it is what makes them unique. This album is much easier to review, due to tanglible structure, vs. Thick which is like trying to critique a 20 minute of a Beethoven sonata, with all the hills and valleys. So here goes....
Side 1-
Aqualung- Title track, and opens with one of the more recognizable opening riffs of the decade beside Smoke on the Water- Bizarre topic of the saga of a creepy old pedophile. Kind of like a Biden troll I guess. Song nicley alternates between hav riffed matter, to bottom barrel-ish sounding folk. Nice solo work at the end by entire band in great jam fashion. Definitely one of my favorites by the band- 2
Cross Eyed any- Mysterious with wavering flute and strings, that progresses into a fabulous hooked rocker. Actually heard this one on a classic rock station the other day. Jethro Tulls Lives!!!! 4
Cheap Day Return- Short acoustical olde English numbered ditty- Okay 9
Mother Goose- Anderson really turns on the renaissance aspect of the catalog. This tune would feel right at home in 1500. Works well though. 6
Wond'ring Out Loud- Another folk acoustical tune. How the band works the strings (or innovative mellotron) in, makes its very pleasing. 7
Up to Me- Grabs you from iconic starting laugh. This searing rocker adds a hook that is effectively added up later and with variation later in the LP, in unforgettable fahion. 5
Side 2-
My God- Almost a blues number. Almost a jazz number, then almost a rocker. Anderson's schizophrenic styles intertwining are a fascinating journey into a really talented and intelligent band. Andreson's best flute solo on the LP. 8
Hymn 43- Man, I love this tune- Epic, unique bass/drum line. Majestic, and maybe the most prog feeling, in style and delivery. Highly identifiable due to air play, and if any have knowledge of Tull, you will remember it well- 1
Slipstream- Another brieg folky olde-English that doesn't quite work into the equation as well. I don't claim to understand the concept in this particular part. I'll defer that to the hard core fans. 11
Locomotive Breath- 3rd highly identifiable tune on this LP , that flat out rocks. Dueling guitar and flute is legendary on this one.
3
Wind Up- A mostly rocking end, but suprisingly weak versus the balance of what is a classic prog concept album, during the infancy of the genre. 10
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MslaxkQpTdI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MslaxkQpTdI)
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Aqualung - Live '77
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TcKSUvEhZM8)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Emerson Lake and Palmer- Pictures at an Exhibition (1971)
From the last few posts, you might have noticed that my guilty musical pleasure is Classical Music. Which honestly augments well with my favorite musical genre, Prog Rock. No one in the prog area did classical better than ELP. And though no one can claim ELP was the greatest band of all time, there can be arguments made that as a conglomerate they were the greatest musicans of all.
ELP has a limited fan base due to the their tendency to be ostentatious in the nature of the complexity of their music, or their tendency of focusing on the widzardry rather than content. Admittedly more than 75% of Tarkus was unlistenable as mumble jumble synthezizer goobly goop. Incredible musicanship, but head ache inducing. Pass on that particular album unless you area hard core ELP fan.
I am including this one for the fact that this is the one single album that introduced me to the Prog genre. And what Keith Emerson did in his interpreation of this Mussgorsky 19th Century classic is amazing. All tracks ex. 6, 12, and 13 are from the classical piece.
What I particularly love about this album is Emerson infusion of Church Organ. Which, by the way when used in the best acoustic conditons and setting is the most beautiful, hair raising, and chlling musical sound on earth.
Saddens be that 2/3 of this band are dead, but their legacy and greatness lives forever in the albums like this one, their Self Titled, and Brain Salad Surgery. Enjoy......
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7NAGTq_IJQ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7NAGTq_IJQ)
Ha! A friend introducing me to Tarkus is what got me into prog rock.
I've gone back and forth on Pictures. Some of it, like "The Gnome", is kind of Tarkus-esque in terms of that kind of noodling-around sound. But other parts are just great - Great Gate of Kiev in particular really works - fantastic vocals by Lake on that one.
ELP was my favorite band for awhile, then I kind of drifted into King Crimson, then Yes, Genesis, etc.. Lots of cross-pollination between those bands.
I've heard criticisms from drummers that Palmer is kind of "sloppy", but I will say that he did the best drum solos I've ever seen, and it wasn't particularly close. Incredie showman .
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Aqualung is a great album. I actually liked the band better live - they were heavier than on the albums and could really rock out.
I go hot and cold on Ian Anderson's vocals. I don't like vocal "runs", where someone fits 5 notes into a single syllable, and Anderson goes overboard with that sometimes. When he sings more "straight", he has a really good baritone voice.
You mentioned orchestral rock. Renaissance did that fairly well also, and did a fair number of classical adaptations. Annie Haslam's vocal range was ridiculous, and there was some really good piano/bass work in the band itself, though they did a lot of concerts with orchestra accompaniment.
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Aqualung is a great album. I actually liked the band better live - they were heavier than on the albums and could really rock out.
I go hot and cold on Ian Anderson's vocals. I don't like vocal "runs", where someone fits 5 notes into a single syllable, and Anderson goes overboard with that sometimes. When he sings more "straight", he has a really good baritone voice.
You mentioned orchestral rock. Renaissance did that fairly well also, and did a fair number of classical adaptations. Annie Haslam's vocal range was ridiculous, and there was some really good piano/bass work in the band itself, though they did a lot of concerts with orchestra accompaniment.
Renaissance? Wow Bill, I haven't heard that band mentioned in decades. I had a few friends that were into them, just as Tull. In style, they kind of go hand in hand. I am going back to listen to them to see what I remember about them.
What is your preference between Aqualung and Thick as a Brick. I almost chose Thick as a Brick to review, but was at kind of at loss to explain the dynamics of the work. Artistically, its superior, but Aqualung as a whole is a better listen, and I thought more here would remember the LP better.
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Ha! A friend introducing me to Tarkus is what got me into prog rock.
I've gone back and forth on Pictures. Some of it, like "The Gnome", is kind of Tarkus-esque in terms of that kind of noodling-around sound. But other parts are just great - Great Gate of Kiev in particular really works - fantastic vocals by Lake on that one.
ELP was my favorite band for awhile, then I kind of drifted into King Crimson, then Yes, Genesis, etc.. Lots of cross-pollination between those bands.
I've heard criticisms from drummers that Palmer is kind of "sloppy", but I will say that he did the best drum solos I've ever seen, and it wasn't particularly close. Incredie showman .
If you are into Tarkus, you are truly a first rate ELP fan. I have often said that Tarkus as a musical work, is the most complex and voluminous work ever done in the history of rock. Emerson's keyboard work as far as "quickness" and "focused" was at its pinnacle. And honestly, I don't see how anyone in the modern era could do it live, considering Emerson have the habit of accerlating the pace of his playing as the tune progressed. But you got to admit.... Tarkus sure didn't have a commerical focus.
I haven't heard too many comments around Palmer being sloppy. I know it is subjective, but I would rank him about 4th all time of rock drummers, behind (in no certain order) Peart, Bonham, and Moon. One thing about Palmer that kind of escapes critics, is that if there was a sports like statistic on drum stick head speed, I'd bet Carl Palmer would topping that list. His liver performance at the California Jam in 1974 was incredible. Solo starts about the 2:45 mark. But.... I do have to admit, BSS is my favorite LP of the band.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P19BpRijJD4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P19BpRijJD4)
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Renaissance? Wow Bill, I haven't heard that band mentioned in decades. I had a few friends that were into them, just as Tull. In style, they kind of go hand in hand. I am going back to listen to them to see what I remember about them.
What is your preference between Aqualung and Thick as a Brick. I almost chose to review, but was at kind of at loss to explain the dynamics of the work. Artistically, its superior, but Aqualung as a whole is a better listen, and I thought more here would remember the LP better.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=caIM8e5m4u8
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v4VDwWVrHn4
She had a phenomenal voice, but it sometimes sounded too sanitized to me.
I agree with you on those two Tull albums. I think Thick as a Brick is probably a bit more polished, but Aqualung has some better singles and rocks more.
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If you are into Tarkus, you are truly a first rate ELP fan. I have often said that Tarkus as a musical work, is the most complex and voluminous work ever done in the history of rock. Emerson's keyboard work as far as "quickness" and "focused" was at its pinnacle. And honestly, I don't see how anyone in the modern era could do it live, considering Emerson have the habit of accerlating the pace of his playing as the tune progressed. But you got to admit.... Tarkus sure didn't have a commerical focus.
I haven't heard too many comments around Palmer being sloppy. I know it is subjective, but I would rank him about 4th all time of rock drummers, behind (in no certain order) Peart, Bonham, and Moon. One thing about Palmer that kind of escapes critics, is that if there was a sports like statistic on drum stick head speed, I'd bet Carl Palmer would topping that list. His liver performance at the California Jam in 1974 was incredible. Solo starts about the 2:45 mark. But.... I do have to admit, BSS is my favorite LP of the band.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P19BpRijJD4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P19BpRijJD4)
Tarkus clearly wasn't commercial sounding...but it went to No. 1 in the U.K. -- the only ELP album ever to do that -- and to No. 9 in the U.S.. In retrospect, that seems nuts. But I think music fans in general were more adventurous back then. No way DSOTM would have the same impact if it was released today.
I think Palmer wasn't the greatest at keeping a consistent tempo. He was great at fills, and was very aggressive. But I don't think he was great at hitting and staying in a "pocket", and doesn't really groove as well as someone like Phil Collins, and obviously not like Bonham or Peart. Even with Asia, he ended up behind quite often despite obviously having the ability to play faster. Didn't help with ELP that, as you said, Emerson wasn't always the greatest at keeping tempo either. But on the flip side, that's kind of what happens when you're playing balls-out most of the time. Those guys never took the easy way out, which is part of their appeal. That clip from the California Jam kind of makes the point. I think Palmer was the greatest "rock" drum soloist...but of course, doing a solo means that he was keeping his own time and not having to work within the band.
My opinion on Collins has risen over time. He was just really good at juggling complex time signatures and then popping right back dead on the main rhythm. Some of those older Genesis tunes are tough because of the way Gabriel's voice kind of floated around the music sometimes, but Phil kept them together. Still a Bruford fan, but Collins gets overlooked sometimes as a pure drummer because of going pop and becoming a vocalist.
When you get up in the rarified air of great drummers, it's hard to rank them because they all bring something the others don't. I'd put Palmer up there as a soloist, and Bonham up there to the extent you don't ask him to do odd time signatures,, which he disliked. His work on Achilles Last Stand is just insane -- not sure anyone else could have done that. Collins can play pretty much anything, but he isn't as inventive as Bruford, or as powerful as Bonham or Palmer. And nobody keeps things tighter than Peart, although I couldn't see him doing some of the stuff Collins and particularly Bruford did. But Bruford isn't really that good at playing something that isn't his own. And Moon brings a violent unpredictability that is pretty unique.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day - Blink 182- Enema of the State- (1999) *** 1/2
I Bet no one expected to see this one coming. And in fact this one is a few years I'd ever cover short of the "25 year" criteria for Classic Rock. But my children knew I would be "open minded" with their music to give an honest opinion of their merit. Yeah, no doubt rock as form degraded in my opinion as a whole by 1999, but that didn't mean there weren't some few gems out there that were excellent.
One of those exceptions is who I felt was the best of those Alpha Numeric wave of punk bands that dominated the airwaves mostly between 1995-2005. Blink 182 sure was one of those bands. Of course punk never pretended to be high brow or the highest level of musicianship. Still, this band, and this particular album embodies the best elements of The Ramones...... Exploit the 3 chord, catchy tunes, and hilarity in their lyrics. BUT... there is one point, and I wouldn't call it a schtick, but this band has an insanely good drummer. The guy's name is Travis Barker, and there is a bombastic level of energy not seen since Moon. The man is a living breathing 16th note measure filling percussive monster. And there is a great deal of it that isn't filled with cymbal crashing. Barker almost as if in a seldom the case, is the lead instrument for the band. Seems the singing and guitars are the accompaniment, in a manner not seen since Rush. I better stop with comparisons to the Who and Rush, before I am carted off as crazy :silly: No these guys are not iconic British Invaders nor, Canadian Prog Masters....... But they are really fun, and talented. I can imagine with this band, a 90 minute set would be like running a marathon, with they energy they have to expound
In a crude way this is almost a concept album around the social and relationship angst and pressures of the teen years of a generation in the cusp of a new technological age. Think about it, this is music about the last generation of kids who in their teen years did not have their thumbs surgically attached to their phones. I know many of you might turn this off just because of the era, and I don't blame you considering most else made during that time was shitty. But if can go into this one with an open mind, you'll find you'll enjoy the heck out of it, and get some laughs too. What also especially inpresses me with this CD (obviously never an LP) was the utter lack of filler. Almost every tune is listenable.
And a warning, like a lot of music of this day, there's a lot of sexual content, language and adult themed lyrics.
I'm also including a link to the lyrics so you can enjoy the hilarity while listening.
Tracks
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1- Dump Weed- Huge laughs right out of the gate, in this what the woke would now call a "sexist romp". Bad Ass drumming (as there is in the next 11 songs). Even in 1999, can you imagine the response if you told the ladies..... "I need a Girl that I can train"? But if you saw some of these guys in their videos, they are a hoot, and might not the best guys to give you advice on "relationships". Can't complete this one's review without giving props to the innovative half beat off percussion. 2
2. Don't Leave Me. More relationship advise from the boys. I about died laughing when I first heard this one. The point where it is asked almost in 3rd party... "One More Time with feeling" in the chorus? 5
3. Aliens Exist- Fantastic tune around UFO's and Aliens. No doubt these guys were fans of Mulder and Scully in the day. Wonder what the 12 Majestic Lies were? 6
4. Going Away to College- Another romp of half beats and wonderful lyrics. Except these are beautiful and from the heart. Even almost 50 years ago, the phenomenon of leavng high school sweethearts after graduation remains a common theme among the ages and socially difficult event. It's not these guys are cerebral, but they do have a great finger on the pulse on the teenage psyche. 8
5. What's My Age- The funniest cut of maybe the funniest rock albums I've heard, that focuses on the state of maturity of guys say 15-25. Best punk/rockish jam of the entire album in last 30 seconds too. Great tune, don't forget these are only 3 guys doing this. 3
6. Dysentary Gary- Maybe the weakest cut on the Album. Anger on this one didn't age well. 12
7. Adam's Song- KABOOM- Whaaaaaaat? Powerful and heartfelt song on teenage suicide? This is written and sung with such conviction. Song has a very very very sad and poignant feel and point to it. As a parent, if this doesn't make you go out of your way to hug your teen aged kids, nothing will. Incredibly powerful and cerebral on an emotional level. A very strange and powerful contrast to the rest of the social commentary on Enema. 1
8. All the Small Things- This was (is?) Blink's most recognizable number as a number, and considered the hit on the album. And maybe the only song on the piece that has a "present day" hint in their day to day lives. Kind of like a concept respite. Best hooks, to say for sure too. Seems they needed a pop sound to augment the rest. They infuse a little maybe sexual strangeness into it, but I'll leave that to your imaginaton. 4
9. The Party Song- Interesting perspective of a late '90's party. Incredible syncopative meter in the song. Also funny as hell. After hearing this song, I hadn't realized and watching my kid's school, is how aggressive girls of the time had become sexually. 9
10. Mutt- A lower tier cut, on an otherwise fantastic album. 11
11. Wendy Clear- A tick above the last one, but not the best. nice bass line, and another tune that took a hiatus from the concept with a present day perspective from them. Which was too bad since I had wished tgat they had stuck with the formula through out. 10
12. Anthem- Strong finish, with the band finishing with a generational spat ditty. Nicely musically crafted too, almost including some chordal fill. 7
Lyrics---------> https://genius.com/albums/Blink-182/Enema-of-the-state (https://genius.com/albums/Blink-182/Enema-of-the-state)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zk8V10-0nN0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zk8V10-0nN0)
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I started preparing these list in July 1973, then December 1973 and pretty much monthly afterwards for several years....
July 1973
================
1. Alice Cooper Band
2. Uriah Heep
@catfish1957
In MY alleged mind,Uriah Heep belongs at number two on anyone's list of great band,only surpassed by Pink Floyd,who belongs at the top of ANYONE's list.
I refer to PF as "Blues from the 25th Century".
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- The Who- Tommy (1969) **** 1/2
First a little back story of why this LP is so near and dear to my heart. When I took College Sophomore English Literature, I had maybe the coolest College Professor ever. He was citing existentialistic authors in the same vein as the Byrds, The Beatles, The Stones, and The Who. One exercise in the class was an interpretive composition of The Eagles "The Last Resort" from Hotel California. You were allowed to hear the song twice in class, and then prepare your write up. He also provided an opportunity for those who choose to skip a book, to watch Tommy (The Movie) and provide the same. I was never one to have patience to be a volumnous reader, so I jumped at the opportunity.
Needess to say, The Movie sucked, as big acts like Tina Turner and Elton John , who were great at their own genre did not realy give the service to Townsend's work. OTOH, I did think Clapton being the cult priest was pretty amazing. But from substance, at least the movie provided at least a glimpse at what and how Pete Townsend saw his work. Tommy was groundbreaking. It was the first true Rock Opera.
Most of the movie felt force fed. I have always believed that Townsend never intended the Opera to be cramped into a 2 hour movie. Additonally to being forced feeling, it was made it feel too campy. And even though Daltery had the aura to be the perfect "Tommy" in this movie, he sure wasn't any actor. Still he deserves the props tat he sang the parts to perfection though. But back to the review...... Tommy was a double album with 24 cuts. I will discuss the numbers with substance, skipping those that were pretty much transitional pieces to the story. The better part that pretty much was the meat and bones that highlights Townsend's musical genius.
And as far as the topical value, Tommy pretty much was a piece about the dangers of false prophets, and almost a premonition of consequences of cults of personality versus merit. There is also a lot of hidden intent around religion, and if you have never listened, it may or may not be your cup of tea. As far as ranking, this is my second favorite Who LP just behind Who's Next.
Side 1-
Overture- My favorite cut of the entire LP(s). Yes, its an instrumental, but Townsend masterfully ties the hooks of much of the other parts of he opera into a fantastic piece of music. Contrasting this with the best live version say, from Live from Leeds is amazing. Augmenting the Piano, Hammond and the French Horn just gives the song a feel on a different level. 1
Amazing Journey- Have never figured out how Townsend made the reverse flutist sound in the intro. Damn innovative to say the least. Love how the song starts so angelic and soft with powerful Daltery conviction, then cressendos in a classic Moon Drum bashing exercise. Then reverses course on a dime. This one song maybe highlights Daltery's range the best of all. 4
Sparks- Another instrumental that really highlights the entire band's musical arsenal. Entwistle's understated bass, which is pretty uncommon on Who tunes, works on so well. 10
Eyesight to the Blind- Almost included this in the transitional section, but included due to length. Song mostly is relevant to the story, not as much ground breaking musically. Nothing spectacular 15
Side 2-
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Christmas/See Me Feel Me- Another Semi-Transitional Piece, Intro- Strange soundng somehwat simple, in a lot why you might see or hear in the Magic Bus Who era. 14
Cousin Kevin- Off Key ode to pedophiles, as it applies to the story. I used to think it was just creepy until decades later Townsend was accused of having kiddy porn on his PC in the name of research. Yeah, right. This is now just disgusting, and he has to live with it. And its not the only time the topic shows up in this opera/album. 18
Acid Queen- i prefer this version as far as story telling versus the much more energetic Tina Turner version. But its like reading a book. Sometimes you don't want to hear the same story from different authors. 8
Underture- Another instrumental, more dark and forboding. Maybe the only time I head Moon use tymps in this level of volume. Still maybe the best Moon work on the album. He certainly is the feature part in it. 11
Side 3-
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Do You Think It's Alright (Uncle Ernie) Another creepy piece around pedophillia. Townsend could have easily left this shitty topic out of the story with no trouble. But....... 17
Pinball Wizard- Of course the most wide known and recognizable tune on the LP. Great rocker, The strum/power chord blend is classic. Elton John's version is very good too, but does have more of a pop tinge infused. Can't go wrong with either. Daltery was definitely on top of his game too. 2
Go to the Mirror- Baba like chordal progresson works fantatiscally in this one of the best tunes on the LP. Daltery show off the range again too. This is one of about 6 tunes, on why if you are a Who fan, this one is essential to your collection. 4
Tommy Can You Hear Me- Almost folk like little piece that phases beautiful harmonies. No doubt these guys were not only talented, but had a very underated level of versatility. 13
Smash the Mirror- Turn the dial, and now a blusey direction- Again versatility on parade. 12
Sensation- And now a pop tune. I always found it interesting when Townsend tries to make himself sound like Daltery. Works well though. 7
Side 4-
---------------
Sally Simpson- Very very strange addition, almost transitional, but senseless filler IMO. I never understood why Townsend included this aspect in the story, except maybe to fuse the "groupie" moniker into the fray 16
I'm Free- Solid rocker that seems more stylisitically from Who's Next. 6
Welcome- Maybe the most operaic aspects of the work. Daltery is a great singer, and it is amazing how he immerses obvious emotion into every almost "movement" of the song. I always wondered how Tommy would have been if pete had taken a purist approach to the concept. 9
Wer're Not Going to Take It- Fabulous closing with another of The Who Classics. Beautiful harmonic intertwine with strong musical play.
Second part of song focuses on enlightenment, which Daltery takes on with an Angelic approach. And then the Clincher, some of the most powerful Who work yet. Grand finale, for sure. Every band member shines. 3
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cQ3Tul2F7vg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cQ3Tul2F7vg)
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We're Not Gonna Take It
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hXp0O8TeowI)
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If you are into Tarkus, you are truly a first rate ELP fan.
Now, if "Love Beach" is your favorite ELP album, then seek help.
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I haven't played Tommy the studio version in a long time, because the live versions blow the studio versions away.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Black Oak Arkansas - Self Titled- (1971) *** 1/2
Way back in the day, we in middle America had late night radio station, that was called Beaker Street. Beaker Street resided at KAAY in Little Rock, Arkansas, and from 11 pm- 2am played underground rock music that wasn't heard or available anywhere else on AM in the early to mid 1970's. This station pre-dated the FM rock stations that we loved in late 1970's - 1990's. Back in the day we were slaves to radio reception, and on really good days, we could get a clear signal of this mainstay of rock of the day. In those early days, most of our AM were Country Stations or Easy Listening. KAAY was our ticket into Rock that was unavailable elsewhere. Back in those early 1970's where else could you here the latest from Bloodrock, Grand Funk, Uriah Heep, Alice Cooper, Black Sabbath and manu others.
One band that got a lot of airplay from KAAY were the local boys from Black Oak. Band was named after their small town in Arkansas. Their 1st self titled LP, was very unique, took the dueling guitar bit to a good sound, infused country, blues, and enough eery strangeness to give this 1st one a mystique that sadly was never reproduced. The band succumbed to the lifestyle, numerous lineup changeups, silly female backup singers, and magic and continuity was not there.
But the overall product is very crisp. There is a lot more musicanship here than you would expect. These aren't hacks with scrub boards and jew harps. There is some really good dueling guitar jams.
Side 1-
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Uncle Lijah- Tune starts with a amost pre-historic Marshall Tucker sound, done very nicley. Nice entertaining song about a song of old 105 year old Uncle Lijah. Standard rocker, but right out of the gate you are blown away by Jim Dandy (Mangrum)'s signature growl that works to a "T". I also love the religious and redemption motif, and that is a subject repeated on the LP. 5
Memories at the Window- Boys strain on the ballad concept. The message is good, Swampy blusey, not bad, but not great. 7
The Hills of Arkansas- Country fare done very nicely. Sounds like another one that easily could have been lifted by the Marshall Tucker Band. Lot of soul put into this number, and you can tell these guys are really into their craft. 3
I Could Love You- Woooo.... Shaft like clicking riffs, with some pretty nice searing dual guitar work. Repetive line structure , but works nicey in a blusey manner. Fine song..... Had forgot how good it was. '70's Jamming for sure. 2
Side 2-
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Hot and Nasty- Black Oak's first signature song. The one that early got the air play. Very interesting innovative vocal play that you can tell is a meme builder working on Mangrum's stage presence. Though it has some pretty nice guitar interplay, 50 years later, it feels more like a novelty song. 6
Singng the Blues- 50 years ago, I screamed at the speakers at this country remake. There was plenty of Buck Owens on the radio. I didn't ask for this. Now, I kind of view the band playing it as somewhat of a parody, with the nasally tone included. They did song fine, but I don't think it was really homage, but just to show some possible flexibility in style. Geez, who knows. 8
Lord Have Mercy on My Soul- Band returns to the religion/redemption theme, in what may be one of the most eery songs of that era. Song is narrated by a low speaking preacher, explaining his near death experience and being drawn both to the evil and good. Background includes amost what would sound like the gnashing of teeth in hell. After the speech, a rocking number ensues. Fantastic bass line and some addtional interesting dualing guitar work in Southern Rock style. 1
When Electricity Came to Arkansas- Speaking of Scrub Boards- :cool: Percussion centerd and featured number that breaks out into a southern jam session, and finally goes balls to walls blusey-ville. Man they sure sounded like they had a good time recording it. 4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ps9sjgvLKI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ps9sjgvLKI)
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Now, if "Love Beach" is your favorite ELP album, then seek help.
Yep, Keith punked us in this pathetic effort. I still to this day, think it was a joke. Even the album cover was beyond ridiculous.
They win the award for what happens when you give the label the middle finger to meet a contractual obligation.
(Honorable mention: Boston- Don't Look Back)
(https://i.discogs.com/9BvmRaamypt7sxiBcNhE8loBF_lzWbM5v_lDhZ0AyWo/rs:fit/g:sm/q:90/h:600/w:600/czM6Ly9kaXNjb2dz/LWRhdGFiYXNlLWlt/YWdlcy9SLTcyMjU5/MjAtMTQzNjU4MjI3/NC0zMjE3LmpwZWc.jpeg)
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I was 13 when my 16 year old brother took me to see Tommy the movie, and that was my first contact with the Who. A bit of a shocker to my barely teenaged brain.
I still like the studio album better than the live version except for Pinball Wizard. Just think the piano works better than does Townsend's rhythm guitar to drive the song. Still much prefer Quadrophenia, though. Entwistle is a bit too subdued on most of Tommy for my taste.
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Yep, Keith punked us in this pathetic effort. I still to this day, think it was a joke. Even the album cover was beyond ridiculous.
They win the award for what happens when you give the label the middle finger to meet a contractual obligation.
(Honorable mention: Boston- Don't Look Back)
(https://i.discogs.com/9BvmRaamypt7sxiBcNhE8loBF_lzWbM5v_lDhZ0AyWo/rs:fit/g:sm/q:90/h:600/w:600/czM6Ly9kaXNjb2dz/LWRhdGFiYXNlLWlt/YWdlcy9SLTcyMjU5/MjAtMTQzNjU4MjI3/NC0zMjE3LmpwZWc.jpeg)
I don't think I ever made it through that whole album. The cover alone is a horror show. Really, if BSS was the peak, I think Works Volume 1 is pretty good, but after that...yikes.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Lynyrd Skynyrd- (Pronounced- Len-nerd Skin-nerd)- (1973) ****
Thought I might stick with the Southern Rock theme a tad longer.
Strangely, if you look at my compliation of Top 20 lists, Lynyrd Skynyrd never made it. Which in retrospection, is puzzling. It may be that I might have thought my tastes at the time were too high brow for this southern fare. Maybe I thought that though they had a rocking edge, but there was too much of a MCA commerical bend to their catalog. Or. maybe the fact is that Free Bird was and is the most over played memed rocking "request" in history... Almost to a joke. More on that later.
But of course 50 years later, and the album is now 50 years old, I have much more embraced my "southerneress" and what that means and matters as a heritage. 10 or 15 years ago plus or minus, I bought a greatest hit compliation collection of the band, which I have since played the hell out it. What this band did 1973-1977 in their first 5 studio albums was excellent. Generally only about a 1/3 of ther 1st 5 are filler, meaning the band as whole should qualify as among the greatest in the genre. I have great respect for the legacy of this band now.
The first album is easily the best, and contains what I feel are their most memorable songs.
Side 1-
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I A'int the One- Blusey Boogie opener, with good solid screaming axes. Good tune, but not exactly memorable in their catalog. 6
Tuesday's Gone- Never was into swooner rock ballads, but no one can deny this is one of the best ever done in that era. Beautifully done in soulful blusey fashion. This would will never get old. 1
Gimme Three Steps- Hilarious rocking tune around a guy who dances and gets caught with some bad dude's old lady. I think most of us can relate in the day, getting caught in an unfortunate love triangle or 2 with Linda Lou. 3
Simple Man- I think most of the allure of the greatness of the first L-S has to do with how well and powerful the band did with the softer side. Simple Man is very powerful and pointedly heartfelt. Love how the band periodcially infuses heavy chordal guitar to give depth and dimension to what is another ballad in the vein as Tuesday's Gone. 2
Side 2-
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Things Goin' On- Swamp boogie tune and standard fare that even brings kind of creole flavor and 1800's piano sound. Not one of my favoirites on the LP, but from a stylistic, and breadth of different styles, I got to admit, the guys were trying to show off their versatility and gumption. 7
Mississippi Kid- Depression era-ish kind of delta blues number. Interestingly, it sounds like it comes off like a $10 Sears Silvertone 6 String. Led Zeppelin pulled the feat off much better on Led Zeppelin III in 1970, with Hats Off to Harper. Still very interesting in showing their historical interest in those delta blues acts. 8
Poison Whiskey- Standard solid rocker.... And a style that carried over in the band more prevalently in subsequent albums. Any song about rot gut whiskey can't be that bad. 4
Free Bird- Aren't many songs in my mind that are more ambivalent than this one. First the Good- Yes, this is arguably the the No. 1 or 2 most iconic rock song in history. Interchangagle with Stairway to Heaven. It is well composed, beautifully delivered, and powerful in the way it cressendos into an ultimate jam..... I mean the ultimate jam. Everyone knows this song. But------ I am purposely leaving a ranking off for obvious reasons,
Even within the first year of the album, this was already the most overhyped overplayed song at parties, radio, cars, everywhere. I got sick of it. Maybe my most cringeworthy moment I ever had at a concert was in about 1984 or 1985. I was at a Bar concert where the Ramones performed. There were only like 40 or 50 people there. But invariably this one idiot red neck kept yelling at the Ramones to play "Free Bird". That just infuriated my hatred of what the song stood for. And this dipshit was a living breathing stereotype for it.- 5
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pVx6DijKSPo (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pVx6DijKSPo)
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I was 13 when my 16 year old brother took me to see Tommy the movie, and that was my first contact with the Who. A bit of a shocker to my barely teenaged brain.
I still like the studio album better than the live version except for Pinball Wizard. Just think the piano works better than does Townsend's rhythm guitar to drive the song. Still much prefer Quadrophenia, though. Entwistle is a bit too subdued on most of Tommy for my taste.
Having to watch this at the theatre for a college literature course was strange. Having to take notes while watching, sure got some strange looks. :silly: In comparing the studio/live versions of Tommy, I am kind of divided. I love the symphonic value Townsend gives it on Overture and a few others. OTOH, Some of the "hell break loose" numbers like "See Me Feel Me" works so much better live, i.e. like the band did it at Woodstock. I also enjoy the energy in its totality as they played it at "Leeds" too.
Seeing this at Woodstock,and seeing Iommi play, is why my first electric guitar was an SG.
You are very right about the highlighted differences between Tommy and Quadrophenia. When you watch the rockumentaries, I think the reason that both Moon and Entwistle are more low key is that Townsend was so self absorbed with Tommy that there would be no upstaging. It seems he was that obsessed with it. And wanted 100% creative control over the content.
My opinion of Quadrophenia is little less kind. Again, its all our tastes of course. Yes, there seems to be more of a rock slant to the content, there is a drop off in songwriting. Again, I love it.... Nothing The Who made 1965-1975 was bad. And 3rd place for this band would be a lifetime classic for another.
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Townsend is one of rock's great jerks. He's bitched on more than one occasion about both Moon and Entwistle - even after their deaths. He and Roger Waters should do a Thunderdome match. World would be better off regardless of who one.
I agree with you a lot on Skynyrd. My favorite song of theirs is Simple Man, followed closely by Tuesday's Gone. Ronnie could really write. Simple Man works because the lyrics go perfectly with the simple, yet very heavy and powerful guitar chords gave that simplicity depth and weight. Just a great song.
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Note: Album reviews are indexed on page 1 of this thread if there is interest in a particular band or album.
Any requests?
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- The Sex Pistols- Never Mind the Bullocks (1977) **
The craziness of the mid '70's was weighing on the music scene. Earth was mired into a Disco Thump Fest that domonated this time period. And Arena Rock which replaced Flower Power Psychadelia. Things were prime for an social musical change to the masses. That flash of lighnting was Punk Rock. Yes, there glimpses of it coming in the likes of The NY Dolls, The Stooges, and Roxy Music, but Punk Rock as a true genre, and as we know it was evented at almost the same time by The Ramones, here, and The Sex Pistols in England.
The fact that the Ramones share the legacy of 3 chord madness, simple lyrics, humour, and break-neck speed playing...... That is about where the similarities end. The Ramones were driven by the inane, every day, almost Seinfeld like humour, while The Sex Pistols were like the Evil Twin. They focused 100% anger on politics and left wing social commentary. Both do, share the energy of early punk. But the Pistols were just vulgar, vile, and hell bent on shock value. Talking about abortion, overthrowing the Queen, and outright anarchy in 1977? Yeah it happened. But as everyone knows, the Sex Pistols flamed out almost as quick they rose. You can only take rage and anger so far, but at least with this album, you can get a good feel of the energy of the day. And as much as it digusts (and it should), it is a a critical album in rock history
Side 1-
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Holiday in the Sun- Starts with the goose-step, and delves into heavy punk riffing. We used to have a lot of discussion on interpretation, and we pretty much came to conclusion that this was an endorsement of communism, hence tearing down " The Berlin Wall"... But ironically it happened in the opposite direction about 12 years later. 4
Bodies- Maybe the strangest and most bizarro tune on the LP..... Communists screaming of the vile aspects of abortion? In a Vile, vulgar, and disgusting way The Pistols intended to be shocking at every measure. They deliver in true Rod Serling Twilight Zone fashion.
Pro-Life and Sex Pistos aligned? Strange marriage. 9
No Feelings- The ultimate Narcsisstic atnthem- Some solid musicanship. And some humor. 5
Liar- LMAO... 30 lines of lyricsm about simple lying.. No one accused the Sex Pistols of being cerebral. Almost non-punk guitar rocking at end. (Sell-outs- :silly:) 12
God Save the Queen- Maybe the band's most famous number. Words can not describe how scandalous it was at the time. I love their silly chorus.... "No Future". What irony, this band fizzled out about 2 years later, while the Queen's reign went on another 45 years. 3
Problems- Did I use the word "inane" earlier? Decent punk licks, but song makes no sense or purpose. 11
Side 2-
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Seventeen- More of the same nonsensical gibberish. Seems the band liked to alternate between social commentary and well..... basically nothing. Just as with "Problems", palatable Punk song. 10
Anarchy In the U.K- The best song on the LP. Anger is in full frontal view. I really believe these guys beleived what they were singing and playing. Note the lyrical line.... "I want to Destroy Passer-by". Sounds very much like present day Antifa and BLM. The fact that the song is very good, and well performed is no way still an endorsement of the POV of these POS' 1
Submission- The second best on the LP- Very innovative musical structure that works well on a lot of levels. Overall message is a pretty sick and sexist in intent that would would be slammed by the left in this day in age. Times certainly have changed. 2
Pretty Vacant- I will at least give it to them, they were self-depreciating in the fact they didn't know shit about anything. Song around the cluelessness of youth is actually 10X more evident than when it was in 1977. 6
New York- English is so thick on this number, I had to cheat to recollect the lyrics. Come to find out, that this was a diss of the NY Dolls. I have no idea why Sid, Johnny, and the other Rotteness would be so bitter and Vicious. Left wing rock leaders calling their competition "f@ggots"? My times have changed (Part II) 7
E.M.I.- Dissing a former record company in a song? How unique and groundbreaking- /s 8
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JGCYNhaZ728 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JGCYNhaZ728)
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Townsend is one of rock's great jerks. He's bitched on more than one occasion about both Moon and Entwistle - even after their deaths. He and Roger Waters should do a Thunderdome match. World would be better off regardless of who one.
Townsend is a petty pr*ck. His jealousy and anger at Page and Zeppelin has been well documented, and has made him it look downright silly.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Lynyrd Skynyrd- (Pronounced- Len-nerd Skin-nerd)- (1973)
Thought I might stick with the Southern Rock theme a tad longer.
Strangely, if you look at my compliation of Top 20 lists, Lynyrd Skynyrd never made it. Which in retrospection, is puzzling. It may be that I might have thought my tastes at the time were too high brow for this southern fare. Maybe I thought that though they had a rocking edge, but there was too much of a MCA commerical bend to their catalog. Or. maybe the fact is that Free Bird was and is the most over played memed rocking "request" in history... Almost to a joke. More on that later.
But of course 50 years later, and the album is now 50 years old, I have much more embraced my "southerneress" and what that means and matters as a heritage. 10 or 15 years ago plus or minus, I bought a greatest hit compliation collection of the band, which I have since played the hell out it. What this band did 1973-1977 in their first 5 studio albums was excellent. Generally only about a 1/3 of ther 1st 5 are filler, meaning the band as whole should qualify as among the greatest in the genre. I have great respect for the legacy of this band now.
The first album is easily the best, and contains what I feel are their most memorable songs.
Thanks much for this review. I love me some Skynyrd. Tuesday’s Gone and Simple Man are in my Top 10 all-time favorite songs. Brilliantly written.
Sure wish I could have seen the original band in concert. Hubby and I have seen them live twice in the past few years. Both were outdoor venues, which is where they should be seen. They have done well with the musicians who replaced the originals. Ricky Medlocke is a guitar god.
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Thanks much for this review. I love me some Skynyrd. Tuesday’s Gone and Simple Man are in my Top 10 all-time favorite songs. Brilliantly written.
Sure wish I could have seen the original band in concert. Hubby and I have seen them live twice in the past few years. Both were outdoor venues, which is where they should be seen. They have done well with the musicians who replaced the originals. Ricky Medlocke is a guitar god.
Do you remember the '77 Crash? That day in many ways is almost rivaled as historic as Buddy Holly's crash in '59. Losing RVZ's songwriting altered rock history in ways few can imagine. If the massive success of those first five albums could have translated and extrapolated into 10 more?
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Do you remember the '77 Crash? That day in many ways is almost rivaled as historic as Buddy Holly's crash in '59. Losing RVZ's songwriting altered rock history in ways few can imagine. If the massive success of those first five albums could have translated and extrapolated into 10 more?
I sure do. I was just a baby Skynyrd listener at that time. Free Bird was the main reason I “discovered” the band and it was devastating news to hear.
Speaking of Buddy Holly, if you ever find yourself in Iowa, Clear Lake is the town where Buddy played his final concert. The Surf Ballroom is an exceptionally cool venue, well worth the time to visit. Outside of ClearLake, there is a monument set up at the crash site. It’s literally out in the middle of a field.
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Strangely, if you look at my compliation of Top 20 lists, Lynyrd Skynyrd never made it. Which in retrospection, is puzzling. It may be that I might have thought my tastes at the time were too high brow for this southern fare. Maybe I thought that though they had a rocking edge, but there was too much of a MCA commerical bend to their catalog. Or. maybe the fact is that Free Bird was and is the most over played memed rocking "request" in history... Almost to a joke. More on that later.
As much as I love bands like RUSH, Little Feat, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, etc., Lynyrd Skynyrd has always been my center. They are such a tight band, their play is flawless. Leon Wilkeson is highly underrated as a bassist.
Here is my favorite song from their first album. It is a song that the producer did not want to include. Ronnie Van Zant basically took him outside the Doraville studio and threatened to beat the crap out of him if he didn't include the track.
Simple Man
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sMmTkKz60W8)
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As much as I love bands like RUSH, Little Feat, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, etc., Lynyrd Skynyrd has always been my center. They are such a tight band, their play is flawless. Leon Wilkeson is highly underrated as a bassist.
Here is my favorite song from their first album. It is a song that the producer did not want to include. Ronnie Van Zant basically took him outside the Doraville studio and threatened to beat the crap out of him if he didn't include the track.
Simple Man
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sMmTkKz60W8)
I'm not a country guy, and generally not even a southern rock guy (with the caveat that I don't consider the Allmans a "southern rock" band). But like I said upthread, Simple Man in particular is just a genius song. I'm normally not a lyrics guy, and if I have to put forth effort to try to understand the words being sung, I lose all interest. But that's just an incredibly clean, powerful song.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Golden Earring - Moontan (1973) *** 1/2
I might get some gripes from some Kraftwerk fans, but this fare from Golden Earring in 1973 is IMO the greatest rock album made outside the Anglosphere (United States- U.K.- Canada-Australia) I've been wanting to share it for some time now but You Tube has invariably some how kept if off in its entirety. This band's legacy is pretty much isolated to the land of Ned, where they are held in awe as their version of their Rock royalty. In Holland they charted 18 top 10 albums from 1965-2012. But did no better than No. 12 here, and No. 24 in the U.K for this their only one of two successful albums outside their borders.
There are only 5 tracks on the U.S. version of the L.P., but all the songs are excellent. This is a early era prog album that almost fully is conceptualized upon the "bad girl" theme. And it is done to perfection. These guys play tight, and band member really pulls their weight across the board nicely. This is a band with no glaring weakness, and they really got some very good prog chops. They conduct these long numbers in a manner that are instrumentalized in perfect align with intent. They also shift styles and meter very very effectively. If you have never heard this album, and are into early Prog and good musicanship, you won't be disappointed.
This European album cover was banned in the U.S. sadly. The Moulin Rouge'd theme (which perfectly fit the music) just didn't get by our censors.
(https://img.cdandlp.com/2019/01/imgL/119448703.jpg)
Side 1-
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Radar Love- Epic opening, riffs and awesome bass line. This is the most recognizable Golden Earring Tune. Sung in perfect English, and you'd never believe these guys were Dutch. Guys unleash horns in an unexepected manner in harmony with a guitar shred. Stuff that I hadn't heard before. Love the lyrics which pretty much are factual in the way the ladies almost hypnotize us via radar. Bad Ass Stuff, I tell ya. 1
Candy's Going Bad- Wow, you might thought you'd get a breather, but the band slams a funky opening riff at you at the opening like a 2 x 4. Really good guitar work mid way. More of the concept, as a showgirl that's being a hooker. This might be the most commerical sounding / feeling tune on the album, but it is so good. Chordal progression and jazzish touches gives it an eery conclusion. Wow...2
The Vanillla Queen- An ode to what sounds like a Moulin Rouge show girl in 1957. Synthesizers are brought into the equation. But don't let that opening fool you. This entire tune reads like a symphony in the way it shifts in and out styles. Especially in the latter 2/3 which is predominantly instrumental in nature. Classical Guitar, wailing Clapton early '70's like shred, its there, which then blends into almost an hallucengic lapse into a rocking Tour de' Horns in a nice manner. By the end of Side 1, you've realized you have heard a masterpiece. 3
Side 2-
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Big Tree Blue Sea- Is that Jethro Tull out there? LOL. Yeah, flutes are added to this one. Another in an almost mostly instrumental that really nicely highlights the bands talents and versatiities. A lot of dead time with the flute solos kind of hurt the song, but by the mid point, it moves into a more rocking tone. The flute work is obviously a knock off of Ian Anderson's work, and but this is a good tune, and but honestly it's the weakest too. Which isn't really a slam of the quality of the song. Just the weakest of a good collection. 5
Are You Receiving Me- Seems there may have been some Byrds like inspiration into some of the Earring's work. Of course how many tunes did the Byrds infuse screaming horns and sax in. Long tune, with jams that really are intense. Really good, but at this point you realize that the band had put all the epic eggs in the Side 1 Basket- 4
Again, since YT is not allowing the entire LP, I am going to include the classic tunes from side 1.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=11Lj75cjg44 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=11Lj75cjg44)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tTUZXWKRVM4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tTUZXWKRVM4)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vZ7mjDN4qzE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vZ7mjDN4qzE)
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A little change of pace. I know there are a lot of us Rush fans here at TBR, and if we all ranked the top 2 Rush Instrumentals most would go with (1) Lavilla, and (2) YYZ. I've got a different #2. This one from "Roll the Bones" And I just love this live version, which might have been one of the Professor's greatest recorded solos. I know some drummers who have told me that the cross over work that Peart did toward the end of the solo, is almost un-doable (reproducible). I just love the grins Peart and Geddy Lee shared at the end of this solo. He knew he nailed it ..... Big Time.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKIc20Liw3c&list=RDAKIc20Liw3c&start_radio=1 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKIc20Liw3c&list=RDAKIc20Liw3c&start_radio=1)
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The live drum solo during Working Man is pretty bad ass.
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Well, @catfish1957 , Golden Earring's Twilight Zone is a good tune that will make ya drive to fast, lol.
Don't necessarily care for the lyrics, but the tune itself is pretty darn good.
(I didn't realize they were Dutch...so you taught me something. :laugh:)
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Here's a 'Top 30 Bassists' list:
https://www.musicradar.com/news/greatest-bassists-of-all-time-ever
Even though I love Geddy Lee, I would have put Jaco Pastorius at #1. And there's no way I include Paul McCartney in this list. Chris Squire is definitely top 5.
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Here's a 'Top 30 Bassists' list:
https://www.musicradar.com/news/greatest-bassists-of-all-time-ever
Even though I love Geddy Lee, I would have put Jaco Pastorius at #1. And there's no way I include Paul McCartney in this list. Chris Squire is definitely top 5.
I know Geddy thinks the late Pastorius is among the best. He went as far to spend an outright fortune at auction to buy his working bass. Pastorius is unique that he is one of the few acts with the exception of Stanley Clarke, and Jamerson where the band was built around his talent. Of course in a vein, Jazz doesn't meet my criteria for listing as inthe case of Clarke and Jameson. It's its own animal
And your comment aound McCartney is spot on. Being among the greatest song writers who ever lived does not necessarily translate to being the greatest instrumental practioner.....
So I am going to provide two lists... One on IMO technique and another on greatness and impact.
Technique-
1. Jaco Pastorius
2. GeddyLee
3. Les Claypool
4. Chris Squire
5. John Entwistle
Impact-
1. John Entwistle
2. Geezer Butler
3. Chris Squire-
4. Geddy Lee
5. Jack Bruce
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The live drum solo during Working Man is pretty bad ass.
Good choice.
Which solo in particular do you find the best? Peart performed it live for almost 40 years, so there are so many variations. IMO he actually made the transition from drummer to master percussonist during the Farwell to Kings talent point. As an athlete-drummer, I felt he was at his quickest and commanding in the mid to late '80's. Say about Power Windows or Hold Your Fire.
He was really getting some arthritic issues in his elbow and wrists in the '90's and how to play through a lot of pain. The progression of his kit is remarkable.
1976
(http://www.andrewolson.com/Neil_Peart/drums/Replicas/replica_gallery/DSCF2428.JPG)
2015
(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/8e/e3/1d/8ee31d5b32a7b343be57d18f6fbfd61a--aerial-view-neil-peart.jpg)
Btw... Late in '20 Peart's 2112 kit sold for a half a million at auction. Which in the scope of craziness of rock memorbila prices, might be a bargain. This is a future museum piece.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Styx- Equinox (1975) **** 1/2
I have a lot of emotion invested in this LP. This and my Boston album dominated my turntable and Truck 8-Track during the 1976-1977. This was also the first LP of a great band that I got to see live. Styx, in their early form and in the sequence of albums #5, #7,and #8, were utter prog Juggenaunts who did more to bring the genre to the masses than anyone... with maybe an argument from those super Kansas fans.
I had earlier reviewed Grand Illusion which is #7 of that sequence. That album and Pieces of 8 captured what was the best of their songwriting. You can see the polish and the producer sheen in mass quantities. But still, in us who loved Prog in the '70's can not discount those 2 albums. They made them huge headliners nation wide, but there was a dark side too, which I will cover later.
Equinox, OTOH, has the same elements, but nicely shows some grit and edge that was lost after this album. If you are into pure hard rocking, this is much more a better choice than the stuff a few years later, and a nice balance between the di-opposing artistic direction that tore this band across, and IMO destroyed its legacy.
Equinox is a perfect example of how that schism was evident even early on. This is album is basically two albums in one. One being influenced and eventually 10 years later drug down the drain in the form of shitty pop numbers. Yeah folks, that villain is Dennis DeYoung. Dennis DeYoung is an incredibly talented keyboard, and song writer, but he had a penchant for the sappy love song, and lighter fare. Which by 1980, had degraded into pop. On the other side, album (literally) and figuratively was James Young, and later Tommy Shaw who recognized what made the band a massive success. Which was a blend of the two styles of heavy melodic synth, with hard driving guitar interplay.
If if hadn't been the sad fact, that DDY couldn't keep his massive ego in check, we might have seen some really good stuff after Pieces of 8. But no.... DDY flipped off the fan base with shit like Cornerstone, Paradise Theatre, and Kilroy was Here. It was criminal, it was epically tragic. No one nowadays hardly remembers Styx, and that is all on DDY.
But back to this album. No filler hardly. This is 1975 at its best.
Side 1- (Dennis')
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Light Up- Guess it was kind of dicey back in the day, bringing up 420 topics. Well maybe 420/relationship quips. Heavy synth and rocking number. It might be my hatred of DDY, but his most sappy of tunes just don't have the same charm they had 48 years ago. 6
Lorelei- Now cohabitation? DDY's ode to shacking up works better than Light up, as JY has a stronger role in melodic lines. Really like Panozzo's bass work on this one too. Some nicely done choral rounds done at end too. 5
Mother Dear- Maybe the most adventerous try by the band, but the way it is delivered doesn't hit the mark. Weakest cut in a fantastic album- 7
Lonely Child- Difficult to listen to. Memories. 3
Side 2- (JY's)
--------------
Midnight Ride- So starts the rocking bad ass side. JY knocks this one of the park with an excellent. Actually was kind of nice break to shut DDY's keyboard up. Really good tune, and just wait until a few years when Tommy Shaw is added to add some dueling elements to the live versions. 4
Born For Adventure- Another great rocking epic tune. Riffs and runs are a lot tougher on tougher than everyone realized on this one. Has maybe JY's best solo toward the end. And after being blown away, this song leads to........... 2
Prelude 12/ Suite Madam Blue- There are a number of songs that just can't be decoupled in the era, and I have covered a few. This is another one. You can not play the epic classic Suite Madam Blue without the Prelude opening. It'd be rock and roll sacrilege. Suite Madam Blue is the perfect Styx song. It runs through every aspect of Styx's repitoire, and cressendos into one of the greatest hell breaking loose prog explosions of the era. Man did I ever crank up the speakers for this one. Best heard loud as hell. Fantastic and one the best closings of an album I'd then and since. 1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s7wtzdnwvXY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s7wtzdnwvXY)
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@catfish1957
Very pleased to see a fellow traveler in the Dennis DeYoung anti-fan club. I just can't stand that guy, and find his voice incredibly annoying. Tommy Shaw clearly wasn't a fan either. DDY was basically a musical theater guy masquerading as a rock star, and I can't stand the kind of oversinging that dominates most musical theater. But a lot of Styx' music, especially in the early days, was very good.
Also, I finished my review of Brian Eno's Another Green World, and I'll post it tomorrow.
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I know Geddy thinks the late Pastorius is among the best. He went as far to spend an outright fortune at auction to buy his working bass. Pastorius is unique that he is one of the few acts with the exception of Stanley Clarke, and Jamerson where the band was built around his talent. Of course in a vein, Jazz doesn't meet my criteria for listing as inthe case of Clarke and Jameson. It's its own animal
And your comment aound McCartney is spot on. Being among the greatest song writers who ever lived does not necessarily translate to being the greatest instrumental practioner.....
So I am going to provide two lists... One on IMO technique and another on greatness and impact.
Technique-
1. Jaco Pastorius
2. GeddyLee
3. Les Claypool
4. Chris Squire
5. John Entwistle
Impact-
1. John Entwistle
2. Geezer Butler
3. Chris Squire-
4. Geddy Lee
5. Jack Bruce
Great topic, and I dug into the linked lists and thought they did a good job.
One guy who I'd put in the top 5 for technique is Victor Wooten. I saw him with Bela Fleck and the Flecktones awhile back -- a GREAT show if you can find them touring -- and he was incredible. Here's a taste of Victor:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ve37F3Ee9Ow
The other guy I was really pleased to see make one of those linked lists is Tony Levin. He's generally not a shredder like a lot of those other guys -- although that doesn't apply when he's playing the Chapman stick -- but he's as tasteful a bass player as there is, which is why he gets so much session work in addition to playing with Peter Gabriel, King Crimson, etc.. Great example of his ability to come up with memorable bass lines that don't intrude on the other instruments is the line from King Crimson's "Thela Hun Gingeet":
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nOrYTBaT1z0
Cool thing about that song is that another guy on your list, Les Claypool, actually covered that song with the Flying Frog Brigade. Great cover.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ml6LmIB-hvA
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@catfish1957
Very pleased to see a fellow traveler in the Dennis DeYoung anti-fan club. I just can't stand that guy, and find his voice incredibly annoying. Tommy Shaw clearly wasn't a fan either. DDY was basically a musical theater guy masquerading as a rock star, and I can't stand the kind of oversinging that dominates most musical theater. But a lot of Styx' music, especially in the early days, was very good.
Also, I finished my review of Brian Eno's Another Green World, and I'll post it tomorrow.
@Maj. Bill Martin
Looking forward to it. Your mentioning Eno got me listening to a lot of '70's Roxy Music this week. For such a great band, didn't realize that there was more filler than I realize in their individual work. Kind of what I call the "Van Halen Effect" where if you take and compile their best cuts, they are terrific ++. , but trying to single out one single LP? Not so much. So I really couldn't pick one out for review. And I really don't like doing compliations for review.
And Bryan Ferry? I was always so envious. He kept the most beautiful women in Europe on his arm 24/7. He out Jaggered- Jagger at the time.
As far as Styx and DDY.... Your persona of DDY was spot on. Spotlight hogging primma donna.
-
Styx - Live Concert, 1978 (Grand Illusion tour)
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FyOv91RRtq8)
-
Great topic, and I dug into the linked lists and thought they did a good job.
Cool thing about that song is that another guy on your list, Les Claypool, actually covered that song with the Flying Frog Brigade. Great cover.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ml6LmIB-hvA
Now that is bad ass!!!!!
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Styx - Live Concert, 1978 (Grand Illusion tour)
Hey Lawrence....
What'd happen if in 1978 I went outside the dorm and looked and sounded like Dennis DeYoung?
(https://cdn.quotesgram.com/img/94/19/1763455256-Office_Space_asskick.jpg)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- King Crimson- In the Court of the Crimson King - (1969). *** 1/2
There are bigger King Crimson fans out there than I am, but I can not stress enough, that with the ushering in of the street noise in 21st Century Schizoid Man argubably could be called the birth of Progressive Rock as it is known today. Members like Greg Lake and Robert Fripp are considered Prog Royalty today. If you want a modern equivalency, Mars Volta is probably the best analogy. Shreading jazz infused randomness, with a touch of Zappa-ish tinges on the side.
Back when I first heard this, maybe aged 13, I prefered the heavy-ish Brit touches of Black Sabbath and Led Zeppelin. Honestly, to get me stay awake, there at least had to be some level of hook. And 1/5 of the album (I talk to the Wind) was an epic snoozer. During a listen one of my good rock buddies at the time heard that one and farted. And then yelled.... "Talk to this Wind mf'er". Nothing like 13 year old guys doing serious music review huh?
But back to this albums legacy. There are no arguments that this LP changed the landscape. I have always felt that Greg Lake with his work here help temper Keith Emerson's obession with classical. I love that aspect of ELP, but I don't think 5 straight albums of Mussgorsky, Holst, and Copland would have gotten much commerical traction. Greg Lake effectively Yanged Keith's Ying.
Side 1-
---------------
21st Century Schzoid Man- Very innovative use and intro, distorted vocals nicely introduces the listener into the world of prog-jazz. Amazing solos, and maybe made a little over-done in a way to more showcase talent than musical content. Still an epic tune, and the one the fans remember besides the uhhhh....obvious. 2
I Talk to the Wind- Didn't like it 53 years ago. Don't like it now. And think about it, and honestly..... does it really fit the style and intent of what the band wanted?, or wanted to convey? Such a bad ass menacing album cover, and this is the second song? ZZZZZZZZZZZ!!!!! 5
Epitaph- Still a softer side, but actually a great number. This almost sounds like an early ELP song, so I am guessing Greg Lake had a huge amount influence in its making. The acoustical guitar and slight mellotron background, give a lush and expansive feel to it. Lake's voice is fantastic in this one. The guy sure has been overlooked as one of the greats. 3
Side 2-
--------------
Moonchild- I really like how the band brings in early English folk influences and blends them in and out in an etheral manner. The song often has the beauty of when you have perfectly tuned wind chimes in a perfect 10 mph steady breeze. The song does do the experimental jazz sounding thing a bit too much. But, the song very beautifully and effectively leads the listener to the iconic ......... 4
The Court of the Crimson King- This tune has often been called the bedrock and benchmark of all that happened afterwards in Prog. I might be a little less kind. But with no doubt, this is the epic song that is associated with much of what started and went forward with prog. Majestic, melodic, great vocals, great lyrics, and powerful. Chordal structure and vocal chorus might give you goosebumps. KC rightfully made a career with this one song. And props to them for it. 1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uw85aNJabkE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uw85aNJabkE)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- King Crimson- In the Court of the Crimson King - (1969)
There are bigger King Crimson fans out there than I am, but I can not stress enough, that with the ushering in of the street noise in 21st Century Schizoid Man argubably could be called the birth of Progressive Rock as it is known today. Members like Greg Lake and Robert Fripp are considered Prog Royalty today. If you want a modern equivalency, Mars Volta is probably the best analogy. Shreading jazz infused randomness, with a touch of Zappa-ish tinges on the side.
Back when I first heard this, maybe aged 13, I prefered the heavy-ish Brit touches of Black Sabbath and Led Zeppelin. Honestly, to get me stay awake, there at least had to be some level of hook. And 1/5 of the album (I talk to the Wind) was an epic snoozer. During a listen one of my good rock buddies at the time heard that one and farted. And then yelled.... "Talk to this Wind mf'er". Nothing like 13 year old guys doing serious music review huh?
But back to this albums legacy. There are no arguments that this LP changed the landscape. I have always felt that Greg Lake with his work here help temper Keith Emerson's obession with classical. I love that aspect of ELP, but I don't think 5 straight albums of Mussgorsky, Holst, and Copland would have gotten much commerical traction. Greg Lake effectively Yanged Keith's Ying.
Side 1-
---------------
21st Century Schzoid Man- Very innovative use and intro, distorted vocals nicely introduces the listener into the world of prog-jazz. Amazing solos, and maybe made a little over-done in a way to more showcase talent than musical content. Still an epic tune, and the one the fans remember besides the uhhhh....obvious. 2
I Talk to the Wind- Didn't like it 53 years ago. Don't like it now. And think about it, and honestly..... does it really fit the style and intent of what the band wanted?, or wanted to convey? Such a bad ass menacing album cover, and this is the second song? ZZZZZZZZZZZ!!!!! 5
Epitaph- Still a softer side, but actually a great number. This almost sounds like an early ELP song, so I am guessing Greg Lake had a huge amount influence in its making. The acoustical guitar and slight mellotron background, give a lush and expansive feel to it. Lake's voice is fantastic in this one. The guy sure has been overlooked as one of the greats. 3
Side 2-
--------------
Moonchild- I really like how the band brings in early English folk influences and blends them in and out in an etheral manner. The song often has the beauty of when you have perfectly tuned wind chimes in a perfect 10 mph steady breeze. The song does do the experimental jazz sounding thing a bit too much. But, the song very beautifully and effectively leads the listener to the iconic ......... 4
The Court of the Crimson King- This tune as often been called the bedrock and benchmark of all that happened afterwards in Prog. I might be a little less kind. But with no doubt, this is the epic song that is associated with much of what started and went forward with prog. Majestic, melodic, great vocals, great lyrics, and powerful. Chordal structure and vocal chorus might give you goosebumps. KC rightfully made a career with this one song. And props to them for it. 1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uw85aNJabkE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uw85aNJabkE)
Ack! You stole my thunder! That's my favorite band, and I've probably worn out at least 5 vinyls and a couple of CD's of that album alone. So I'll add a bit more to your excellent commentary....
As you said, this album was the seminal prog album because nobody had really done anything like it before. Lots of stories out there about the band starting. Apparently, them just rehearsing in a basement started a lot of rumors about them that drew attention from other musicians in London. So their very first gig in a local club, before they'd even put out an album, drew a crowd of other musicians. Jon Anderson tells the story that the guys from Yes - Anderson, Squire, Bruford, were there, - and after Crimson finished their set, Anderson leaned over to Squire and said "We have to practice a lot more." When Hendrix came to London, even he heard about them and wanted to catch a show -- again, all before their first album was out. His reaction apparently was pretty positive as well:
Fripp added that he had later accidentally met the sister of original Crimson drummer Michael Giles in a bookshop in 1981, 11 years after Hendrix’ death in 1970. “She said to me, ‘Do you remember the time when Hendrix came to see King Crimson?’” Fripp said. “And I said, ‘Of course I do – it’s my Hendrix story!’ And she said, ‘Do you know that I was sitting on the next table to Jimi Hendrix. … He was jumping up and down and saying, “This is the best group in the world.”’
https://guitar.com/news/music-news/robert-fripp-jimi-hendrix-story-king-crimson-best-group-in-the-world/
Anyway, back to that album....
In that original incarnation of the band, Greg Lake obviously went on to form ELP, Ian McDonald went on to form Foreignor, and Fripp stayed. The guy who often gets unfairly overlooked is the drummer, Michael Giles. Most people have never heard of him because he was a bit of an eight-ball , and really was interested more in avant-garde music than more traditional stuff., so Crimson's first two albums are really is only major work. But his drumming was incredibly inventive on those albums. Neil Peart is one of those drummers who has cited Giles as being a "very important influence" on him. I'd suggest listening to "21st Century Schizoid Man" -- first song on the album, and focus just on the drumming, his fills, etc.. Incredibly inventive guy, like a Mitch Mitchell with much greater technical chops.
The point you made about I Talk to the Wind is a good one. There was some disagreement about the direction of the band, which is one reason they broke up after less than a year together. Fripp and Lake wanted the darker, more aggressive stuff, and McDonald in particular wanted to incorporate more folk and lighter stuff. So, after their first tour of the U.S., the band split. Giles and McDonald were buds, so Giles left too. And then before Fripp and Lake could find new bandmates, Lake got the offer from Emerson, and he left. Lake did sing on their second album, and Giles drummed, but that incarnation of the band ended at that point.
Obviously, Fripp did keep the band going with new members, including Bill Bruford who quit Yes after Close to the Edge because he wanted to play with Fripp, and the future direction of the band was generally much closer to the aggression and precise musicianship of Schizoid Man than to the majesty of "In the Court of the Crimson King". If it's okay, I'll probably review some of those later albums another time.
Final comment -- Epitaph is a fantastic song, and as you pointed out, one of Greg Lake's best vocals. His vocals on that song were so good that there were a lot of fan-attempts to isolate just the vocal track. Eventually, it seems like someone with access to the masters did leak it, so then Crimson officially released a track consisting just of Lake's isolated vocals from that song. Here it is - skip to 2:40 to skip the background info and get right to vocals:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ssUWSiMlFBU
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Ack! You stole my thunder! That's my favorite band, and I've probably worn out at least 5 vinyls and a couple of CD's of that album alone. So I'll add a bit more to your excellent commentary....
Final comment -- Epitaph is a fantastic song, and as you pointed out, one of Greg Lake's best vocals. His vocals on that song were so good that there were a lot of fan-attempts to isolate just the vocal track. Eventually, it seems like someone with access to the masters did leak it, so then Crimson officially released a track consisting just of Lake's isolated vocals from that song. Here it is - skip to 2:40 to skip the background info and get right to vocals:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ssUWSiMlFBU
Fascinating. You sure have a much better perspective on this band than I do. I didn't give it the justice you did. Thanks.
That clip isolation Lake's voice on Ephitaph is jaw dropping. Sometimes it so easy to get so engrossed into the entire product that you lose sight of the indiviudal aspects. After a little reading, I saw that apparently Greg Lake had no formal voice training. Just how can someone hold that level of tone and intonation without some professional influence. I love how the clip did a frequency waves, and did not notice how sinal and consistent the waves were managed? Natural talent of this level is seldom seen. I also saw that Lake wrote song and lyrics of "Lucky Man" at age 12. Obviously some form a child prodigy, that sadly is almost underappreciated in the music world.
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Lake's voice with Crimson and for most of the 70's with ELP was incredible. The tone he had is almost unmatched in rock music. That particular cut shows him at his peak.
I think one reason he isn't as well known is that he started losing his upper register early -- too much smoking and no real vocal training on how to preserve his voice. His voice from then on has charitably been described as "earthy", whereas it was closer to heavenly before he blew it out.
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Here's some more prog music for you, @Maj. Bill Martin
Gentle Giant
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JaNIvQqcSx0)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Toto- Isolation (1984) ***
Been wanting to review a Toto album for awhile, and the problem was I was torn with what I felt were 3 classics that could have been the choice, each on their own merits. Those choices included their 1978 Self Titled LP. It put Toto on the map, and had 3 what I felt were killer tunes that so well musically attuned, that almost gave a "session guys go super man" kind of feel. And an extra vote for being so innovative and hitting the ground running.... At the debut album level. My second choice was what I feel that 90% of you would have chosen... Toto IV (1982). It had some of their largest hits like Africa and Rosanna. It made them huge stars, got them 4 Grammys, and a huge crowd adulation in the M-TV age.
But instead, I want to cover my favorite by the band, and some may view it as kind of an obscure pick..... Isolation, which was the followup to IV. It was a huge dispointment commerically. IV reached #4 in the charts, while this album #42. Which in the music business is an unmittigated disaster. To me, it didn't have those super hooked hits, but had a consistency that was outstanding. Very very little of album is light on quality, and in essence, it was the best album of all where the members of the band were able to flex their technical chops.
I might also be slightly jaded toward this pick, since it was the tour I got to see them live. Very very talented musicans. Yeah, the moniker that they wear around being studio guys might be a diss. But make no mistake about it. These guys were a welcome alternative change to AOR which by the late '70's was getting a tad stagnant. They sure knew what they were doing.
Side 1-
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Carmen- Straight forward rocker, that one thing is noticable is the loss of Kimball's voice seems to lose some the band vocal acuity. But such was the loss was so miniscucably un-noticable, that it sure seems Toto hasn't missed a beat. No diss to Frederiekson, but he sounded like a Jefferson Starship clone. 8
Lion- Another middle of the road rocker with some decent jazz licks. 2 songs in, you can kind of get the message that the band, was not wanting to stay the course on IV. This and in further cuts, the band seems more enamored with the musical product, than employing commerical value. And for that I love it. 5
Stranger In Town- Wow, what a great tune. The song also generated one of what I felt was one of the better artistically crafted music videos of the era. Starring in the video was Brad Dourif, who many of you might remember as the Doc in the HBO show Deadwood. Visual imagery in the video is fantastic, and it works perfectly with the song. Deep, forboding, and shredding. Great song and great vdeo? Yeah, I liked it. 2
Angel Don't Cry- A slight shift into more a tradtional rocker that might be at home in the first 3 albums. For those who remember "I'll Supply the Love".... Kind of a similar chordal progessive structure. Still worth the price of a listen admission. 6
How Does It Feel- I know I am in the extreme minority, but this is by far my favorite Toto ballad. Song has such deep lushness that has that smooth mid 1970's feel. And still I didn't care it was 1985. Lukather worked the solos nicely as a close to Side 1. 3
Side 2-
-------------------
Endless- Another example of a song that was so well composed, so well crafted and delivered, and yet it got zero air play. Love how the band blends perfectly all parts in so well that it doesn't detract from the over histrionic vocals (No-offense intended, it worked perfectly) 4
Isolation- Title Track is actually the weakest on the LP. Hate to repeat the Jefferson Starship comparison, but if you heard this for the first time, you'd think that Mickey guy of that band was delivering it, or even the band itself. Not bad, but weakest of a strong album. 10
Mr. Friendly- Maybe the most keyboard centered tune on the LP. Lower tier again, but not bad at all. 7
Change of Heart- After hearing the prior two, you might be inclined to give on the album. But no... The band gives what I feel is the best effort on the LP. Me and a few other Briefer's love to use the term "Chaos" when describing great music. Controlled Chaos is a perfect description of this fanastic song. Love the fuzzy ax work and unique chordal work in the transitions, while an almost orchestral feel is conveyed at the conclusion. Only a band of the talent of Toto and few others could pull off a song like this. 1
Hollyanna- Sadly the album closes with what I feel is another weaker number. Rock songs selling mundane life stories is so early 1970's, and damned boring if you ask me. 9
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xOc0nibvuQM (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xOc0nibvuQM)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RSeldKAqM-w (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RSeldKAqM-w)
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Here's some more prog music for you, @Maj. Bill Martin
Gentle Giant
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JaNIvQqcSx0)
I've tried with GG, but there's one song they did that just grates on me all to hell. Not sure of the title, but the one line I remember is "Two Weeks in Spain". Up there with anything by Dennis DeYoung as most annoying vocal, lol.
Very good musicians, though.
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I still do have that Eno review ready, so I'll pop it up tomorrow.
Also, definitely some Genesis.
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I've tried with GG, but there's one song they did that just grates on me all to hell. Not sure of the title, but the one line I remember is "Two Weeks in Spain". Up there with anything by Dennis DeYoung as most annoying vocal, lol.
Very good musicians, though.
All I know, is how was he able to get a tiger-wood grained Les Paul?
I didn't know they existed, but I know I want one. :cool:
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I still do have that Eno review ready, so I'll pop it up tomorrow.
Also, definitely some Genesis.
I know you and I are both massive Yes enthusiast. I've previously reviwewed "The Yes Album". And right now the next one from my POV would be the daunting task of picking among 5 classics. Yikes.
Care to give a shot with your favorite?
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I know you and I are both massive Yes enthusiast.
Count me in, too. I am fond of Drama, even though not a favorite of most YES fans, with Trevor Horn on vocals and Geoff Downs on keyboards.
Relayer is a damn fine album, as is Fragile. Perpetual Change off their live album is exceptional.
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gMP-ogxdZdA)
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Count me in, too. I am fond of Drama, even though not a favorite of most YES fans, with Trevor Horn on vocals and Geoff Downs on keyboards.
Relayer is a damn fine album, as is Fragile. Perpetual Change off their live album is exceptional.
Great choice.
The 5 I am having problem choosing from are:
Fragile
Close to the Edge
Going For the One
90125
Big Generator
And a 6th sleeper candidate- "Talk" from 1994. As I have combed and went back through music to review and re-look. My admiration for Trevor Babin and his songwriting talents have increased exponentially. This is an awesome album, that I pretty much didn't know existed until doing these reviews.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eAFzyiOgMUo (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eAFzyiOgMUo)
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In order:
The Yes Album
Relayer
Fragile
Close to the Edge
Tales From Topograpic Oceans
---------------------------------
Soon
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iGq9MbjlQV8)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Tom Petty and Heartbreakers- Into the Great Wide Open (1991) ****
Tom Petty's catalog is an extremely target rich environment to try to find epic classics. Petty particpated in 20 studio albums. 13 with the Heart Breakers, 3 Solo, 2 with the Wilbury's, and 2 as his prehistoric alter ego- Mudcrutch. Of course, the obvious choice was Full Moon Fever, which has been previously reviewed. Picking a second one is a bit more difficult. I worked it down to 2, Damn the Torpedos, and Into the Great Wide Open. Torpedoes as far as a choice was obviously much more impactful as his standing as an artist, and believe me a solid solid choice. OTOH, if you want consistency, and listenability, Into the Great Wide Open gets the edge. I play this album, often even today.
Into the Great Wide Open has the most beautiful, lush tunes, and has some some well balanced hard rockers. What I especially love about this album is that TP shelves his blatant love of the Byrds, which often came across as a superior cover band in many of their tunes, especially 1976-1981. But on this LP, he takes some stylistic slants and angles that give the album a much more unique feel to it. His vocal twang used to grate on my children, and used to hear all kind of negative comments. But that voice especially in this era fits like a glove with the songwriting portfolio. These tunes are done so easy, so effortless. Amazing. And as far as all his music?, even the early stuff has aged wonderfully. TP and the guys will be remembered for many years to come.
Since YT has sadly nixed any full albums of the fantastic work, I am going to list and discuss only about half of the tunes that I consider classic Petty. Don't get me wrong, the other half has some fantastic stuff, but for the sake of helping the listener, I will only add individual YT videos of the songs reviewed.
Highlighted Songs-
-------------------------
Learning To Fly- Beautiful tune that highlights some of Mike Campbell's most memorable and signature slide guitar work. Super simple song, with standard chordal patterns. Easy one of my top 5 TP tunes. Also loved how it includes12 string fullness, and has spot on harmonies. This is defiintely a well used track on the I-pod. And yes, I still have an Ipod that I know I can't update, but I care less.
Into the Great Wide Open- Yes, the Title song. Ever notice how things you say sometimes backfires. In an earlier comment on a review I sneaked at the presence of life stories and andventures being infused into a rock song. Well oops...... This one is a dramatic exception. Is a great TP tune that resulted in a well known video in the day. Folks, when the likes of Johnny Depp and Fay Dunaway are stars in your video? Yeah, you might have some standing in the musical community. Nicely and humorously describes a Rags to Riches to Rags story very well. A must listen.......
The Dark of the Sun, and its earlier predecessor on the Album (similar sounding) Kings Highway, are the representative examples of where TP gives homage to his heros The Byrds. Except in these there is such a different feel, though the meter is inexplicably there. These are so pleasant and upbeat, that you just can't not feel bad after listening.
All or Nothing- Kind of obscure in the catalog of "the listened", but I am 9 (was) intrigued by this as it has more tinge of blues than most any other Petty number. Really like Campbell's solo work on this one too
All the Wrong Reasons- Slow rolling ballad like song that really uses some strange instrumental additons, I didn't check the liner notes, but I swear that there are mandolins, and accordians included. Song has a rich full soft rock air, and really heartfelt lyrics too.
Too Good to be True- Song harkens back to their '70's style. Maybe not quite as heavy, and new wave edged, but nicely nostalgic for me at least. Song easily sounds like it could have come from "You're Going to Get it"
Makin' Some Noise- Seems to pull from Running Down a Dream licks, and style, and maybe the most rocking song on the LP. Campell wows us again with some pretty damned quick ax shreds.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WowZLe95WDY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WowZLe95WDY)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xqmFxgEGKH0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xqmFxgEGKH0)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tr_LGFe7XeU (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tr_LGFe7XeU)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1-lJXljp1YM (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1-lJXljp1YM)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ylbqeCQHUVo (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ylbqeCQHUVo)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ek2_lOix9zI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ek2_lOix9zI)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26S-44m_PAI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26S-44m_PAI)
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I was in Jr. High when these came out. From their first album:
American Girl
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SIhb-kNvL6M)
Breakdown
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dqxns-JTTqA)
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I know you and I are both massive Yes enthusiast. I've previously reviwewed "The Yes Album". And right now the next one from my POV would be the daunting task of picking among 5 classics. Yikes.
Care to give a shot with your favorite?
Close to the Edge is my favorite album by any band, and title song is my favorite piece of music. Been listening to it for 45 years and still hear new things. I'm a huge fan of Bruford's drumming, and I think he's a huge reason that The Yes Album, Fragile, and Close to the Edge are at or near the top of most "Best Yes Album" lists. Love to do that one!
One thing I should have added about In the Court of the Crimson King. The band couldn't find a producer who understood what they were trying to do, fired the record-company assigned producer, and produced it themselves. Ian McDonald did the lion's share of that work, and if you listen to some of the layering and production on songs like Epitaph and In the Court of the Crimson King, that's pretty incredible for a rookie producer. Schizoid Man was laid down in the very first take.
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The Major’s Album of the Day – Brian Eno, Another Green World - 1975
Despite being a co-founder of Roxy Music, and a sideman and producer with a number of acts including Genesis, U2, Coldplay, Talking Heads, and many others, Eno has described himself as a “non-musician musician”. His real expertise is in sounds, conceptual sound design, and thinking “outside the box”. He’s made a bunch of solo albums, but Another Green World is his masterpiece, and has been cited as one of the most influential album of the 70’s. Nobody was doing anything remotely like this before 1975, and you can hear the beginnings of New Wave, ambient music, and other things that were picked up later in other genres.
It is definitely an “out there” album. It isn’t classic rock, and probably not even “rock” at all, but rather an experimental mix of ambient and art-pop music. 9 of its 14 songs – all comparatively short – are instrumentals, which follow a very general pattern of introducing various percussive rhythms and synthesizer melodies and washes to create a sort of aural photograph. Sometimes with vocals, more often without. The song titles often suggest the images created by the music, generally a very relaxing, introspective aura to it.
Eno uses a bunch of guest musicians including Phil Collins and Robert Fripp, but he also plays every instrument himself on many of the tracks. It has acquired a classic status over the years, popping up on Rolling Stones list of the 500 greatest albums ever made, and on a bunch of “most influential” type of lists. This isn’t an album you can really appreciate without actively listening to it because you kind of have to sink into the sounds for it to work. Great at night, with headphones, etc.. So, without further ado, the setlist:
Sky Saw. Unfortunately, the album leads off with my least favorite cut. While most of the album is fairly relaxing and contemplative, this one is just harsh. It’s got Phil Collins minimalist percussion as a plus, but a sort of incredibly hollow sound kind of dominating the mix. Others seem to like it, though. 14
Over Fire Island. Not one of my favorites, but an improvement. Best part of the song is some really interesting washes that give the impression of seagulls flying overhead at night. 13
St. Elmo’s Fire. Not to be confused with the John Parr song. This is the first actual 'song' on the album, and is about a guy and girl going for a walk and seeing the title atmospheric phenomenon. It's got a nice bouncy piano and acoustic guitar, but the highlight of the song is my absolutely favorite guitar solo - period. Eno asked Robert Fripp to improvise a guitar solo that would imitate an electrical charge between two poles on a Wimshurst high-voltage generator. The solo contains both lyrical heights, and intricate passages played at incredible speed. The song begins at about 5:15, and really the album is worth listening to from here on out. 1.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zeuXGBNwixE
In Dark Trees. Dark, desolate keyboards over rhythmic percussion suggestive of individual trees. Haunting, mournful...just a fantastic example of painting a landscape with music. 3
The Big Ship. One of the instrumental highlights. Lots of interweaving rhythms and keyboards that are both uplifting and occasionally foreboding. Very nice piece. 4
I’ll Come Running. The second 'song' on the album, it’s a pleasant piece that includes a more relaxed Fripp solo and is probably the most “pop song” cut on the album. 7
Another Green World. A short, pleasant instrumental rhythmic piece. 12
Sombre Reptiles. A vaguely Native-American sounding instrumental that I think is one of the best rhythmic pieces on the album. 5
Little Fishes. Kind of what you’d imagine should be the soundtrack if you were looking into an aquarium with, uh, little fishes. 10
Golden Hours. A rather whimsical little song with easy-going vocals over some bouncy keyboards, and some Fripp background guitar work. 9
Becalmed. Eno plays a restrained lead piano over which some great synthesizer washes are added. Absolutely love this one. 2
Zawinul/Lava. Another restrained, more relaxing instrumental. 11
Everything Merges with the Night. Another whimsical vocal piece, nicely done, which some really nice fretless bass. 8
Spirits Drifting. Self-explanatory, well-done. 6
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Classic Rock Album of the Day (Bonus Review) - Jimi Hendrix Experience- Are You Experienced. (1967) **** 1/2
Now, something dangerous on my part. Trying, to review maybe the most discussed album ever, I mean one that was released when I was only 9 years old. Who am I to discuss maybe the most dissected and analyzed LP's in history. And the point is... Hendrix is higly essential and integral to rock history. There are literally dozens of books discussing the genius and innovation of the icon. Maybe I use that term too freely sometimes, but no one can dispute Jimi Hendrix as maybe the ultimate "icon" in this tree branch of music known as Rock. Read how many interviews where most of the rock stars after that, picked up the ax in their admiration for the man.
What he did in 1967, is basically redefine what the guitar became in the band. Pre-1967 rock bands had a lot more hmmm.. what I call democracy. There tended to be more balanced and structured on the 4/4 signature of nicely hooked themes and by '67, there were the Beatles and 10,000 bands who tried to sound like them.
I am going to bring up another reoccuring theme we discuss here around the greateness of what makes rock.... "Chaos". I believe Hendrix invented it for our branch of the music, much in the way that Jackson Pollock changed the overall view of what constituted art. Pre- 1967, when a band had fuzz, distortion, and feedback in their amps, it was considered to an be embarassing professional moment. Hendrix took distortion and feedback, made art and music that blew the hippie's minds. This album also may be the first that had almost admittance and endorsement of the use of hallucinogens. Much less less subtle than Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds. I personally would or could never taken them, (fear?). but apparently the "turn on" crowd found that Jimi the poet spoke for that process. The title song, which was incredibly innovative for 1967, basically says it all for that.
But way above the innovative , is that Hendrix on this album has in his honor maybe the most played music on classic rock radio. Incredibly. All four of these songs are mainstays in the radio rotation. And I am guessing they always will be:
1. Purple Haze
2. Hey Joe
3. The Wind Cries Mary
4. Foxey Lady
Then add othe classics we all know like Stone Free, Manic Depression, and Fire. This might have been one of the most filler-free albums ever made. All of these songs are great rockers and ballads that just showed that Hendrix was not only a conveyor of fuzzy distortion, he was a fine songwriter too. He brought a touch of R&B to the mix that really worked.
Thinking about the legacy of Hendrix, I am certain their would be No Prince, No Van Halen, etc. No Chaos. Rock music as we know it would look and sound considerably different. Culturally he shot the hippiedom up 10 notches, and musically his peers, including the Beatles, Stones, Clapton, and almost everyone else, where in awe of him. What also gets lost in the understanding of Jimi, is his entire legacy and impact is based on 3 studio albums. Yep, only 3. Of course part of that sad legacy is he flamed out at the young age of 27. There aren't many rockers can you legitimately call a legend, but here is one.
You Tube and Vevo guards the Hendrix collection like a locked safe, so no "full album: access is available. But here is the title song, that pretty much changed Rock and Roll.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C2XL4P9HRH4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C2XL4P9HRH4)
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The Major’s Album of the Day – Brian Eno, Another Green World - 1975
Despite being a co-founder of Roxy Music, and a sideman and producer with a number of acts including Genesis, U2, Coldplay, Talking Heads, and many others, Eno has described himself as a “non-musician musician”. His real expertise is in sounds, conceptual sound design, and thinking “outside the box”. He’s made a bunch of solo albums, but Another Green World is his masterpiece, and has been cited as one of the most influential album of the 70’s. Nobody was doing anything remotely like this before 1975, and you can hear the beginnings of New Wave, ambient music, and other things that were picked up later in other genres.
It is definitely an “out there” album. It isn’t classic rock, and probably not even “rock” at all, but rather an experimental mix of ambient and art-pop music. 9 of its 14 songs – all comparatively short – are instrumentals, which follow a very general pattern of introducing various percussive rhythms and synthesizer melodies and washes to create a sort of aural photograph. Sometimes with vocals, more often without. The song titles often suggest the images created by the music, generally a very relaxing, introspective aura to it.
Eno uses a bunch of guest musicians including Phil Collins and Robert Fripp, but he also plays every instrument himself on many of the tracks. It has acquired a classic status over the years, popping up on Rolling Stones list of the 500 greatest albums ever made, and on a bunch of “most influential” type of lists. This isn’t an album you can really appreciate without actively listening to it because you kind of have to sink into the sounds for it to work. Great at night, with headphones, etc.. So, without further ado, the setlist:
@Maj. Bill Martin
Excellent review. I had never heard this album before .... I mean it somehow got under the radar screen. And that just amazes me, considering the accolades it has collected. The sound really had me thinking, just how badly did the Bryan Ferry -Eno split happen when this level of genius departs. I don't see much documented, but there is no doubt that the best Roxy Music work had Brian Eno's influence. I am guessing that Ferry in his persona was grabbing way too much spotlight. I find his campiness, entertaining, but there is no doubt the later musical product suffered.
Earlier today, I reviewd a Hendrix album that I described as a Pollock in art terms. One of my first thoughts with this LP, Eno and a lot of his work, is that it has a more Picasso abstract in comparison. It basically takes the sound/music interphase and bends reality. And funny, right at that moment I noticed that the album art on this , basically had an abstract painting. Eno certainly knew how his craft was configured.
I found this to be a very very strange but innovative album. Almost absent from the lexicon in rock that applies to Jazz is term and practice of "Improv". As a horn player in high school/college I understood going zen, and playing with a poltergeist like influence and obsessed form. This LP embodies that form, almost in an out of body kind of way. I can hear it , and I can feel it.
Some of this, can almost be advertised as perfection relaxation ambiance. There is one cut in particular, that I truly loved ....."The Big Ship". It had that heavenly etheral aura of some songs I know that give you chills. This one is an absolute beauty. You know, I might be a little embarrased to share, but its kind of like one of my guilty pleasures in listening to some very specific work by Enya. I am not into new age music, but there are 4 or 5 of her tunes that have that hypnotic relaxing inducing ability. Like if there is a traffic jam... This tune is coming on. This one is like that.
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Wow, 50th review on the Hendrix piece. Thought it was a pretty apt work to honor the list.
Time sure has flown.
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Close to the Edge is my favorite album by any band, and title song is my favorite piece of music. Been listening to it for 45 years and still hear new things. I'm a huge fan of Bruford's drumming, and I think he's a huge reason that The Yes Album, Fragile, and Close to the Edge are at or near the top of most "Best Yes Album" lists. Love to do that one!
I always find myself fast-forwarding to the 6-minute mark of 'And You and I', and start listening from there.
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I always find myself fast-forwarding to the 6-minute mark of 'And You and I', and start listening from there.
ARgghhhhh!!!!! and miss Howe's/Wakeman's masterpiece of melodic interplay?
**nononono*
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@Maj. Bill Martin
Excellent review. I had never heard this album before .... I mean it somehow got under the radar screen. And that just amazes me, considering the accolades it has collected. The sound really had me thinking, just how badly did the Bryan Ferry -Eno split happen when this level of genius departs. I don't see much documented, but there is no doubt that the best Roxy Music work had Brian Eno's influence. I am guessing that Ferry in his persona was grabbing way too much spotlight. I find his campiness, entertaining, but there is no doubt the later musical product suffered.
Earlier today, I reviewd a Hendrix album that I described as a Pollock in art terms. One of my first thoughts with this LP, Eno and a lot of his work, is that it has a more Picasso abstract in comparison. It basically takes the sound/music interphase and bends reality. And funny, right at that moment I noticed that the album art on this , basically had an abstract painting. Eno certainly knew how his craft was configured.
I found this to be a very very strange but innovative album. Almost absent from the lexicon in rock that applies to Jazz is term and practice of "Improv". As a horn player in high school/college I understood going zen, and playing with a poltergeist like influence and obsessed form. This LP embodies that form, almost in an out of body kind of way. I can hear it , and I can feel it.
Some of this, can almost be advertised as perfection relaxation ambiance. There is one cut in particular, that I truly loved ....."The Big Ship". It had that heavenly etheral aura of some songs I know that give you chills. This one is an absolute beauty. You know, I might be a little embarrased to share, but its kind of like one of my guilty pleasures in listening to some very specific work by Enya. I am not into new age music, but there are 4 or 5 of her tunes that have that hypnotic relaxing inducing ability. Like if there is a traffic jam... This tune is coming on. This one is like that.
Glad you liked the review. I was a bit hesitant to go with something so far "out there" for my first one, but it's one of those rare albums that I know expanded my own musical boundaries so I figured I'd toss it out there. Some of those pieces -- and The Big Ship is definitely one of them -- have a great uplifting quality to them. Very mind-expanding stuff without the aid of chemicals. Some of those pieces remind me a bit of David Gilmour's guitar playing in that sometimes the spaces between the notes are just as important as the notes themselves. Eno is just phenomenal at using that concept of space within music as almost another instrument at time.
Definitely get the Enya comparison. I don't thing I'd ever heard her until the Lord of the Rings movies, but those cuts were very good. My "guilty pleasure" is Kate Bush. Definitely pop, which I normally don't like, but it isn't predictable pop, and that makes all the difference for me.
As for Hendrix...it's really impossible to overstate his influence. That entire generation of guitar players did -- or at least attempted to do -- things they never would have tried if Hendrix hadn't blazed that trail. There won't be anyone else ever who will match his combination of inventiveness and technical proficiency.
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I always find myself fast-forwarding to the 6-minute mark of 'And You and I', and start listening from there.
lol. Yeah, it definitely isn't for everyone. Not a hint of blues influence anywhere in the first half of the album
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lol. Yeah, it definitely isn't for everyone. Not a hint of blues influence anywhere in the first half of the album
lol...
I am too damned hell bent as a purist while listening to a song I about came to blows once years ago, when a buddy almost moved the needle on my turntable to the middle of "Kashmir" .
Oh hell no!!!!! :cool:
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lol...
I am too damned hell bent as a purist while listening to a song I about came to blows once years ago, when a buddy almost moved the needle on my turntable to the middle of "Kashmir" .
Oh hell no!!!!! :cool:
I love Kashmir, but there's a small part of me that thinks it is just a bit too long, and that some parts are stretched a bit.
Same with Achilles Last Stand - fantastic and underrated Zeppelin tune, but maybe two minutes too long.
Of course, that's coming from a guy whose self-admitted favorite song is over 18 minutes long, so take it for what it's worth. And 2112 is way up there for me as well, and I have no complaints about that length either.
So I could be way off here in both Kashmir and ALS.
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Count me in, too. I am fond of Drama, even though not a favorite of most YES fans, with Trevor Horn on vocals and Geoff Downs on keyboards.
Relayer is a damn fine album, as is Fragile. Perpetual Change off their live album is exceptional.
@Hoodat
@Maj. Bill Martin
So true. Funny thing about Yes, is their catalog is so extensive, so talented, I might have a different favorite on any given day. Like lately, and I have stated before, I think the most beautiful sounding musical instrument on earth is a massive Church Organ. And honestly, (and sadly) only Emerson and Wakeman used it to any level of effectiveness. As I digress into .......
One one of my all time favorites by the maestros, might seem a tad obscure by some standards of Yes enthusiast, is Parallels from Going For the One in 1977. The majestic organ opening, some of Squire's best bass lines since Roundabout, ultra-complex melodic structuring? And at about 4:30 mark they make some remarkable music. At about the 4:30 mark, listen and including vocals, you will hear 6 specific melodic lines going on all at once into a mosaic that is remarkable.. Jaw dropping music making that harkens back the 17th-19th century masters.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sF7ZSfyL0hU&list=RDsF7ZSfyL0hU&start_radio=1 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sF7ZSfyL0hU&list=RDsF7ZSfyL0hU&start_radio=1)
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I've always like Parallels as well - my favorite song off that album, and much better than the jangly title track. Song popped into my head just last week so I had Alexa play it while I was unloading the dishwasher. Probably not how Yes imagined people would listen to it, but it made a tedious task a lot more enjoyable for me!
Wakeman's use of the pipe organ in St Giles-without-Cripplegate church in the "I Get Up, I Get Down" movement of "Close to the Edge" is mesmerizing. It makes for a breathtaking transition. It completely resets the mood of the song with a moment of peace before the breakneck conclusion of Seasons of Man.
The organ starts here at a bit after the 12 minute mark:
https://youtu.be/51oPKLSuyQY
Apparently, Yes fans still show up at that church on occasion to see where Wakeman recorded that particular piece.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Weezer - Self Titled (Blue Album)- 1994. ***
It's hard for me to pull myself out of prog mode, but I thought I would give some props to something a bit more modern. By the mid-1990's at least from my perspective, it was getting harder and harder to find bands worth listening to. But that's not to say there weren't a few exceptions. Weezer met that bill. If I would characerize Weezer, I'd say they are about 40% Alternative, 40% Grunge, 20% Punk (ish). They came out just a little later than the Pumpkins, but shared a fuzz/distort sound that gave some nice uniqueness to their sound. Rivers Cuomo is kind of the creative center of the band, and he admittedly has some pretty decent songwriting skills. They spoke well for the plight of young guys in their late teens, much as I previously discussed with Blink. Then add that "nerd" persona.... Schtick? I will leave that opinion up to you.
The guys have made 15 studio albums, and from the research, I have found out that at least on the LP Charts (do they even call it that anymore?) , they are still seeing some decent success. Still, their hay day was those first 4 or 5, which got tons of airplay. And of those 4 or 5, none of them approached the excellence of their debut the self titled, which they call their Blue album. This album has very little filler, and is rife with great songwriting, and has more hooks than a fishing tackle. Nothing really supe remarkable in instrumental musicianship, but competent, and this is just good old fashion fun rock and roll. Don't ever forget who produced this album.... Ric Ocasek. It had to be a winner right out of the gate.
And last, I really like that the boys really try and intend to infuse some nostalgia into their lyriscm. So much of that timeframe was "Our elders are shit" mentality, that I saw these guys as a breath of fresh air in our musical youth.
Track (Yes, post vinyl era)
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My Names is Jonas- After a very brief acoustical ditty, Weezer drops a Sabbath like barrage of riffs to introduce you to a new and unique sound. Lyrics are nonsensical, and least from my POV. Maybe Rivers and the guys had some kind of subliminal thoughts, but this is a tune to enjoy on mostly musical merit. Though the album is a slightly light on redeeming instrumental wizardry, they do do some nice harmonica- guitar solo interplay at the end. 2
No One Else- Maybe the most punk inspired tune of the CD. Hits at that evergreen topic of being 17 and being pissed off at your girlfriend. Very good song, but maybe the weakest of a fine album. 10
The World Has Turned and Left Me Here- Excellent use of phrasing and fuzz, while belting out a semi-ballade delving more into the lamentation of youth and unrequited love. The broad fuzz gives the song a nice lushness, and melancoly feel. My oveall favorite of any Weezer Song. 1
Buddy Holly- Their biggest commerical hit by far. Everyone will recognize the song and the video which made them famous. The video was ingenious bringing back some cast members of the sitcom. Happy Days, actual and filmage. This cemented their status of giving hamage to nostalgia. Fantastic song, but suprisingly not the best on the album. I will have to hand it to them , Ocasek, and record company, this was maybe the greatest example of schtick promotion in the history of rock. Did it ever work well, and it propelled their career. 4
Undone: The Sweater Song- Incredibly innovative song that uses spoken party wording and delves into metaphorical unraveling a sweater as life event. Slowing rolling distort-fuzz almost comes across as a pseudo-bluzey thing. Some nice solo work that nails the number at the end. This is good stuff. 3
Surf Wax America- Fuzzo-punk number just for fun. You just can't take the California out of some boys. 6
Say it A'int So- Slow number, with off-key workage. Not in their wheelhouse. 9
In the Garage- For such a simplistic song, it is so powerful describing young guys having to deal with young life. Knowing these guys, I would bet this was a auto-biography. As I re-review this album, I am recognizing that the guitar work is a lot better than I remember. 5
Holiday- Maybe the most mainstream sounding song on the LP. Nothing special though,- 8
Only In Dreams- Another love song/ ballad that doesn't really add to the feel of the album. I am guessing they were wanting some level of versatility in the product, but too bad they didn't stick with the formula that made the earlier part of this album so great- 7
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0CNyd9zL44s (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0CNyd9zL44s)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- AC-DC- High Voltage- (1976) ****
Probably the best way to describe this band is the band that they are the ultimate band of the lack of subtle. Their blasting hard rocking 3 chords with Angus Young's wild searing Angus Young riffing, and Bon Scott's snearing vocals, (subsequent Brian Johnson) is unique in the rock world. There is no mistaking a classic AC-DC tune when you hear one of the huge magnitude of examples on Classic Rock stations.
I personally see the tragic loss of Bon Scott as the natural line of demarcation of old vs new AC-DC. What is so phenomenal is that both sides of that time line are incredible. As far as Aussie greatness, there is AC-DC, and everyone else far far far behind. From latter era, I have already reviewed "Back in Black", which is their best. And their second best as far as I am concerned is from early in their collection...... High Voltage. This is a very even consistent album, that is from a partying perspective, about as good as it gets. It's got a rawness missing from Back in Black, but some energy, beyond compare. If you have never watched one of their concerts, I have often contended that Angus Young basically runs the equivalancy of a Marathon after those two hour of rocking. Plus at least in this early gem the boys stretch their blues dues nicely.
High Voltage as advertised needs to listened to LOUD!!!!!!..... And will totally immerse you into a blast of rock and roll that harkens Chuck Berry on 'roids. And again beware of the sublety factor where this band has no problem getting into details around their reoccuring themes of sex, drugs, and rock 'n roll. And make no mistake, this is one of the most "filler-free" LP's you will find.
Side 1-
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It's a Long Way to the Top- I am admittedly a little prejudiced having Scottish ancestry, to admit that this is my all time favorite AC-DC number of all time Maybe the only rock song to blast bag pipes into the equation. Doesn't hurt matters either that this is a awesome rocking number either. Great message of their plight to get to where they got to that point. The blaring pipes at the end, just blows me away. Yeah!!!!!!! 1
Rock 'n Roll Singer- Another solid rocker, and more in the auto-bio form that this album screams track by track. I laugh when adds at the end of one verse.... "And it pays well!!!!" These guys had a hell of sense of humour, and had no problem wearing what exactly what they saw and thought on their sleeves. 7
The Jack- Yaw Yaw Yaw.... Innuedo in the extreme with this super blusey number. Never had a card game ever seem so enticing. As elementally rock centered as the bad always seemed, there was always a card to pull out of the deck, that showed this band was more versatile than they advertised. 4
Live Wire- Can't have High Voltage, without a Live Wire. More bio-ish fare with some great ax licks that Angus shreds in mad fashion. "Stick this in your fuse box." :silly: 5
Side 2-
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TNT- Maybe the most recognizable one on the album. Gets a hell of lot or air play on Classic Rock. There are legends that Bon Scott was quite a street brawler. This song seems to help cement that appearance. Great rocker, and party tune- 2
Can I Sit Next to You- Rockey/Blusey song that hits home. The fact that this great song is may be the weakest of the whole album is amazing- 9
Little Lover- More very solid blues stuff. So non-PC, geez only rappers could get away with these kind of lyrics nowadays. Was the sure sign of times, but so entertaining. 8
She's Got Balls- Tune's self-explanitory. But now a more rocking tone, but like I said earlier, subtlety was never in the band's lexicon. Seems the guys were enamored by assertive ladies. Yeah, that;s the theme, and it works. 6
High Voltage- Interesting the bad used the end of the album as the title song. I always thought that was interesting, and never understood why. But in any case, it's electric standard 3 chord but like a 2X4 stuff, that gives a real rocking ending to the story. Way under appreciated is some of the accompanying bass work, which nicley augment's Angus' solo stuff. 3
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RlyPORi_B7s (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RlyPORi_B7s)
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If you're going to do something musically, commit to it 100% and don't hold back. I think every truly great band did that. I wouldn't call AC/DC a great band, but they were fun as hell because they were always authentic.
Never bought one of their albums, but I never changed the station when they came on.
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If you're going to do something musically, commit to it 100% and don't hold back. I think every truly great band did that. I wouldn't call AC/DC a great band, but they were fun as hell because they were always authentic.
Never bought one of their albums, but I never changed the station when they came on.
I love the fact that they gave their audience exactly what they wanted. I agree with you, that from a musical aspect they sure weren't top tier., but they were damned good at the formula of what they excelled at, and maybe among the best at that aspect. Sternum rattling 3 chord rock and roll, with enough riffing, to demonstrate they weren't pikers either.
This is the ultimate Rocking Party band. No cerebral or analysis needed or allowed.
:beer:
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I'm thinking I'm going to do a Genesis next. Probably Trespass, their real "Genesis" album that is sometimes overlooked.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Roxy Music- For Your Pleasure- (1973) ***
Maj. Bill the other day got me thinking about the Eno-Bryan Ferry collaboration back in the early 1970's that was so far ahead of its time, Roxy Music in any form or fashion, and there were several, would never be considered aesthetically for me as very fully listenable band. They made a few great songs per album, but an entire listen, would often be filled with more what I consider a brogadoccio exercise than a effort to plaease the listening public. That said, I can think of very few bands that, especially in their early era that were so innovative and head of their time than this one. Eno and Ferry really were the "Odd Couple", but it set so many precedents in style and gumption.
Putting an exact genre on Roxy Music is impossible. They spread out so evenly among so many types of music, that that said versatility, though so admired and documented, also is part of their demise. This is the Eno-Ferry creative apex, and strangely, for me the first 50 or so of these reviews, I have covered albums that I loved or really liked. My relationship with this one, is more like strong admiration. Be aware... if you are a rock purist, some of this is not going to be listenable, but again that is part of the eclectric, innovative, and strangeness that often inflitrated Roxy Music's stuff. Lot's of great ones, and some head scratchers often in tandem.
So keep an open mind, and realize the genius, and not as much on content.
Side 1-
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Do The Strand- My personal favorite on the LP. Some of the best testicle squeezing sax every done on a rock album. Very catchy, very hooked, and great rocker. 1
Beauty Queen- Ferry's influence and wants on album covers were pretty consistent. Hot women scanilty clad, and sexy. Of course it worked, but sometimes I think he took that musical aspects of his obsession with said hot women and it resulted in lesser music product. Like this crooner, though so nice innovative musically quirkiness, .....meh. 6
Strictly Confidential- Though Ferry wrote all the songs, you can hear and feel Eno's influence on this one. The flowing and intertwined melodic runs sounds more like his future abstract like work. Not my kind of fare. 7
Editions of You- More in the same vein as "The Strand" Has that glam pre-punk feel to it Eno's synth work and sax works nicely. 2
In Every Dream Home is Heartache- Now the ultra-macrbe strange- Sounds like a Bowie meets Morrison exercise in the wierd. As eery as the song sounds and presents, it is almost hypnotizing in its ability to work so many sounds and instrments in the background in most stangest manner. Definitely an Eno experimental number. Latter part of songs works like traditonal rock, but whoa, you at this point have to remind yourself that this is a work from 1973. Pretty groundbreaking if you ask me. 3
Side 2-
-------------
The Bogus Man- 10 minute entourage into more Roxy weirdness. Song has an off beat, off-key jazzish touch, that is honestly mostly annoying. Damned talented, but listenable?.... Not for me at least. 8
Grey Lagoons- Maybe the most tradional rocker on the LP. Some rollicking keyboard sax work that almost harkens to some '50's jams. Song morphs into a wild harmonica run, then into guitars. They are showing off, that is no doubt. But again, unless you are a big fan, ........ 4
For Your Pleasure- Brit tinged number with stange FX that has a lot of innovative touches. More of the same for those who love that ecletric Roxy sound. 5
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EJjd6ahyyG4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EJjd6ahyyG4)
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Great review! I'm like you - I don't know how often I've made.it through an antire.Roxy album, but they're a great change of pace band in smaller doses. Ways like it when they brought in woodwinds because they used them a bit differently than did most rock bands.
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Great review! I'm like you - I don't know how often I've made.it through an antire.Roxy album, but they're a great change of pace band in smaller doses. Ways like it when they brought in woodwinds because they used them a bit differently than did most rock bands.
Thanks.....
I often really sway away from Greatest Hits collections because I think you lose content and continutiy in what the band wants to convey. Kind of like piecing together several books for a read. Roxy Music is an exception, and this one is a really good one if you have to have one in your collection...
The 1st 1977 compliation of hits all the high points you really want to hear what this band has to offer.
(https://i.discogs.com/mp-ZJyGAe3nwa0dAf-4ge-FqSuSoxEK7fUTJ3FzoQfY/rs:fit/g:sm/q:90/h:926/w:600/czM6Ly9kaXNjb2dz/LWRhdGFiYXNlLWlt/YWdlcy9SLTE0Mjgw/NjI3LTE1NzEzOTcw/NTktNDA1OC5qcGVn.jpeg)
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Great reviews, as always. I can't say I'm a huge Roxy fan. The only cd I have of theirs is Avalon. I really like that song. But, imho, they can become monotonous.
I am one of those that hasn't moved ahead with the times and still use a stereo and cd changer. Mine holds 100 cds. When I put it on shuffle it gives a great variety of music. Right now, Roxy is in the shuffle so it is pretty listenable. Of course, it's only useful when my back is feeling spiffy and I can bend over to turn everything on. :rolling:
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Great reviews, as always. I can't say I'm a huge Roxy fan. The only cd I have of theirs is Avalon. I really like that song. But, imho, they can become monotonous.
I am one of those that hasn't moved ahead with the times and still use a stereo and cd changer. Mine holds 100 cds. When I put it on shuffle it gives a great variety of music. Right now, Roxy is in the shuffle so it is pretty listenable. Of course, it's only useful when my back is feeling spiffy and I can bend over to turn everything on. :rolling:
Thank you. Roxy Music is one of handful that I consider the best way to listen is via a compliation set. What still is remarkable is how ahead of their time they sounded. Almost a precursor to Bowie (maybe same time), T-Rex. and the Cars.
What I thought was kind of interesting, with reading of late is that Bryan Ferry is now a conservative voice in the U.K. Pretty strange in this day in age.
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Great reviews, as always. I can't say I'm a huge Roxy fan. The only cd I have of theirs is Avalon. I really like that song. But, imho, they can become monotonous.
I am one of those that hasn't moved ahead with the times and still use a stereo and cd changer. Mine holds 100 cds. When I put it on shuffle it gives a great variety of music. Right now, Roxy is in the shuffle so it is pretty listenable. Of course, it's only useful when my back is feeling spiffy and I can bend over to turn everything on. :rolling:
I'm in the process of reconstituting
My vinyl collection after my wife got me a turntable last year. The process of re-examing my musical tastes in that process is illuminating.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Grand Funk Railroad- Closer to Home (1970) ***
Back in the day, and in their era, Grand Funk Railroad, which in the rock world became simply just Grand Funk, was about the biggest band on this side of the pond from 1969-1974. 7 consecutive charting Top 10 LP's, and breaking Beatles records for concert attendance were some of the highlight of this band that dominated the airwaves in the early 1970's. Mark, Don, and Mel used a soulful, blues based hard rocked edge sound that resulted in long and jamming pieces on their LP's. Their sound got increasingly more keyboard focused in the lattter part of their domination timeframe. For the better? IMHO...No.
How big also were Grand Funk at Capitol? They were one of very select few that were allowed to pretty much control via their own artisitc efforts, along with their legendary producer Terry Knight. They were so much so, they were also one of the first that were allowed album art and configuation gimmickry. Remember the Coined shaped E-Pluribus Funk nonsense, the Gold *yellow" colored "We are an American Band", and the 3-D glasses that cut out of the "Shinin' On" LP? Yeah, Grand Funk had pretty much control of their destiny, and at least the first half of their career, put out a some pretty inspiring works.
I decided to choose "Closer to Home", in that it has the most consistency, though their are GF LP's that had songs that I liked better. The highlight of album is "I'm Your Captain". With its excessive length, it of course didn't get the full album airplay, and the shorter 45 version did an absolute dis-service to the tune. Closer to Home also seems to contain tighter jams that were hallmarks of this band in the day. Before I remember buying this LP, I remember getting to hear the long version on Beaker Street, and was always a joy.
Then, there was the post Knight era, when GF started their rapid decline into the silliness straying from the working formula by putting out junk like Locomotion remakes, and crap like "Some Kind of Wonderful". It was a great ride for them, and I guess it had to end at some point. I think the guys in their caskets in the 1976 crap "Born to Die" was as about as a cruel ironic symbology as anything. I guess the final message to their loyal fans was....... Funk You.
But this is a good and entertaining album, and has some solid blues numbers that are very tight, for 1970 hard rock standards-
Side 1-
---------------
Sin's a Good Man's Brother- Solid opening, with a little ax/bass line fuzz . Solid, run of the mill blusey GF stuff. Song has that late '60's repetitive riff trend, and some of Mel's best bass work. Since there were only 3 on the LP, there is some obvious guitar over-dubbing by Knight, so that signature early '70's dueling guitar was there without the personnel. 2
Aimless Lady- Equally blusey, but taken down a bit of notch. Kind of balladry-ish, More solid bass line. Overall, decent, but not one of the better cuts on the album. 6
Nothing is the Same- Have to disagree. This song contains same meter, and feel as most of the rest of the album. Some decent jams at the end, but better songs to follow. 7
Mean Mistreater - Well known in concert circuit. Sad blues number that works nicely as a change of pace. Some nice blues keyboard highlight one of the more listenable songs. 5
Get it Together- Love how this one follows up with same meter, and in fact, you'd swear it is a continuaton of Mean Mistreater, and how midterm in the song the tone gives an overall more upbeat vibe., almost in an epiphananiel manner. Nice drum/bass/organ, and yes guitar runs highlight. I think the success of these two tunes are the reason GF later became more keyboard concentric. 4
Side 2-
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I Don't Have to Sing the Blues- Side 2 continues to use blues leveled themes, but to less success. "She rolls over on her back"? Come on guys...... Even by 1970 standards?....... 8
Hooked on Love- Maybe the most hard core blues number, with some solid riffing. Even though GF was always considered a hard rock/blues based band, you've realize this is the one they really gave that genre the most homage. And on most levels it works well. 5
I'm Your Captain- Previously, I think I have mentioned, I generally do not like songs that are mostly into story telling, but I have to admit this admit this is a great exception. For 10 solid minutes Mark, Don, and Mel take you out on the high seas, with some very nice melodic guitar work, that is nothing like they did before or after. This is still a very enjoyable listen even 53 years later- 1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BfWPFuikaS0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BfWPFuikaS0)
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I'm in the process of reconstituting
My vinyl collection after my wife got me a turntable last year. The process of re-examing my musical tastes in that process is illuminating.
I can remember at about age 20, my stereo system constituted about a 1/3 of my net worth. That was how much an audio-phile I was. As I've aged, I've noticed that the differences in a $5000 system and $500 one are a massive diminishing return of investment. Still,music is best not heard on cheap junk.
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Bonus Classic Rock Album of the Day- Journey- Infinity (1978) *** 1/2
A few reviews ago, we had a discussion about how one member of a group can hijack a band into oblivion. Yeah, that ass hole was Dennis DeYoung of Styx. This band is another example, but hilariously the band in this case got the last laugh. That band is Journey. Journey, was a good hard rocking band that had 3 so so albums that barely charted from '75-'77. They had a shredder in the name of Neil Schon, who had great tutorledge under the eye of Carlos Santana. These three albums had some good content, but was just missing that slight edge..... A distinctive voice, and a more public friendly songwriting angle. Enter 1978- Steve Perry.
Perry with his high voice, gave the band their big break. Infinity became Journey's most successful and best seller to that point. At from my POV, this and the following album - Evolution, are near great.
With these two albums, Journey hit the sweet spot of a rocking edge, Perry's voice, and some apparently solid songrwriting chops. Several really good tunes on this album. But then the disaster:
Steve Perry wrestled artistic control of the group, and made them a rocking pop band for the following wildy successful 4 albums. Sadly, with that success Journey became more of a band beloved by teenaged girls than their prior customer base. By the time Perry left the band in '86, I despised what he had done to the product and to the band itself. What made it worse, was the level of finger pointing that took place after the band disbanded. Perry laughingly blamed his bandmates, when everyone on earth knew who the culprit was.
Funny point, and what makes the story different from Styx, is that Journey basically found a clone who sounded more like Perry than Perry himself. Nothing like getting the last laugh, revenge, and the band did have a couple of top 10 charting LP's afterward. Good for them.
But on to Infinity. I could have picked this or Evolution as the creme of that era of the golden age of Journey. Both are very good.
Side 1-
Lights- The world is introducted to Steve Perry with this light hearted rocker that is well hooked, and a solid harmony line, and Schon soloing. 3
Feeling that Way / Anytime- On this album this is two songs, but it SHOULD NEVER be played separately. They are like a neopolitan ice creme. You just don't separate the three out of respect. Starts as a semi-crooning Perry/Rolle duo, that mediun pleasant rocker that abruptly blends and shreds into Anytime, which in the Journey catalog is their expedtion into bad ass Chaos. The melodic cruch of all the instruments at the end of this one is epic, and my favorite moment in the entire Journey collection. 1
La do da- A rocker in the old tradition of Journey that I guess Perry didn't get his grubby hands on. He sings it, but as in the nonsensical lyrical aspects of the song. This is more a song about flexing the axes than the song's meaning. Machine Gun sounds and Schon blaring his stuff, make this a top notch addtion to the LP. 4
Patiently- Geez, first taste of crappy Perry crooning- Sadly, this shit would be what Journey would be about in 3 years. 9
Side 2-
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Wheel in the Sky- Another highy played and memorable number from this excellent in the album. Not only a staple on Classic Rock radio, but powerhouse of where Perry's voice actually worked and augmented well in the band's repitoire. If they had stayed this course, just think how well this band would have kept its legacy, and not sold out- 2
Something to Hide- Lesser fare and more Perry's influence that at least gets some Schon guitar work by mid to late song. Not a memorable one in the grand scheme of Journey's list of tunes. 6
Winds of March- Ditto, minus the Gibson tool. 7
Can Do- Just when you were about to give up, the bandmates come to the rescue, and come back with a number that harkens back to some what Journey was doing in 1975. 5
Opened the Door- More like closed it with a thud. More inane Perry slush. I estimate Perry contributed about 40% of the content. Too bad he just didn't sing, and had shut up about the balladry. 8
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zGVsggMhoT0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zGVsggMhoT0)
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One can never have enough Grand Funk Railroad.
Gimme Shelter
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QCnh4cEvJoY)
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One can never have enough Grand Funk Railroad.
Gimme Shelter
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QCnh4cEvJoY)
Great cover of that song. And Mark sings much better than Mick.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Metallica- Black Album (1991) ** 1/2
Let me first start with a statement around Heavy Heavy Metal..... This is music and fare that has had a mass appeal to 15 year old boys. It was no accident that Mike Judge used Metallica on the T shirt on Beavis and Butthead. So by being in my mid 30's at the onset of Metallica, I was not in their target audience, nor was I a fan. So I am going to do my best to review this on merit and put myself in the mindset of 1972, like when I was listening to Black Sabbath Volume IV or Paranoid at the time. At least for the modern metal genre, the Black Album is the considered the quintessential LP of the era. Yes. like Sabbath they nicely exploit the 3 or 4 chord repitito-distoro-phrasing into a head buzzing blast. They also blend solos in fantastically, taking a big page out of Iron Maiden's and Judas Priest's playbook.
One particular thing about Metallica music, is in same ways it is so much more forboding and depressing than in the Sabbath era. Plus let's not forget that production and technology is and was a lot more advance in 1991 than in 1972. Where Metallica was into despair and anger, Black Sabbath focused more on religion, philosphy, and mind altering subjects of the day. But really from a musical angle, they are really more alike than different. While Sabbath invented the genre, Metallica defnintiely redefined it for new generation, and impact? This band had 6 consecutive No. 1 charting albums. Not sure where that sits in the record books, but......
Another fact about Metallica is that they are not one dimensional, some of their balladry has some nice melodic value interwoven into the gut busting metal pile driver. If there are Briefers who are big Metallica fans, I'd sure like to hear your perspective. There may be more to the formula than I am hearing. But for me, after listening to an hour of Hetfield's growling, I think I 'll put on a prog album to disinfect my musical palate.
Fun Fact: And one that seems to get lost in the heavy metal history is that Dave Mustaine, huge of Megadeath fame, was an early member of Metallica. I know most of the hard core fans know that, but as time passes, we easily forget the etymology of how music progresses. The band had fired him before recording first album, but I undestand there are demos out there that have his contributions.
Track (again post vinyl)
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Enter Sandman- BAM!!!!! Right out the chute, an epic, and maybe one of their most epic numbers. Opening of the song is famously used at sporting events to infer intimidation on an opponent. Heavy Bass/ Guitar syncopation is way way catchy....Really like this tune. Best on an overall solid album- 1
Sad But True- The bombardment continues- 90% of the song is one repititve riff, to the delight of those 15 year olds like Butthead. 5
Holier Than Thou- Almost Judas Priest sounding riffing, Almost could be Breaking the Law..... Breaking the Law.... on this one. Docked a few points for that lack of innovation- 11
The Unforgiven- Maybe the most headscratching number on the CD. Song has this old west flavor that works nicely. The accoustal guitar working in the lighter moments is a nice touch. Hammett adds some nice solo work too. 3
Wherever I May Roam- Another Spaghetti like Western tinged classic at the onset. Crunch Crunch Crunch. Repetitive riffing again, and a good reason why Metallica may be the most garage band covered stuff of the past 30-40 years. No doubt it makes the target audience swing their hooked fingers up and down in glee.... And more power to them. 4
Don't Tread on Me- Who else can etch a West Side Story ditty into a blasting metal number? Overall though, one of the more mediocre tunes on the CD. Too bad, because this title and song could really be a Conservative Sloganed tune with some amendment...... 6
Nothing Else Matters- Very famous melodic, and slow ballad by this band. First the negative.... Why write a song focusing on some much despair, sadness, and hopelessness. And being heard by an age group who may be the most vulnerable. Musically the strongest song on the album, and has one of the greatest and powerful guitar solos in the 1990's. That solo alone is worth the price of admission on this song. 2
Of Wolf and Man- BAM!!! BAM!!! BAM!!! More of the same. Anyone have a headache yet? 8
The God That Failed- Bass s more centered, focused, and featured on this one. I don't think any one band made more money on Anger than Metallica. A jaded one might call that exploitation. Nothing addtionally special about this one. 7
My Friend of Misery- After hearing some really solid songs earlier, one would seem to think that the band may be exhibiting a creative fade and fatigue by albums end. LIke the prior.... Standard fare, and nothing new or noticable. 10
The Struggle Within- Another that has Judas Priest like phrasing, and tonal guitar. I hope everyone is noticing the trend of song names. A Honestly, the struggle for me was getting through. the past 3. Yeah, the guitar wizardry is pretty impressive, but for at least for some of us old folks... It's kind of repetitively boring. 9
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LtyxWnjb96s (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LtyxWnjb96s)
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I respect Metallica because the have worked their butts off to get where they are. Supposedly, one of the hardest working, most professional bands in the business even after all their success. But there's just a sameness to a lot of their music that means I'm done after one or two songs. Hetfields pretty undistinguished vocals don't help.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- The Moody Blues- Days of Future Passed - (1967) **** 1/2
We've had great discussions about the early days of Prog, and including trying to dissect when and where it was born. About a half dozen examples could be thrown out there. This is my actual pick. The Moody Blues Days of Future Passed was released in November 1967- less than 6 months after Sgt. Peppers. I might get into blaspheme territory, but in several ways The Moody Blues were better than the Beatles. Especially in musicianship. They in true prog fashion had compostions that were more lush, more complex, and intricate too. But of course, the Moody's did not have that cultural entrenchment and absolute ability of ultra-masterful songwriting. And for that the Beatles were the iconic, among the iconic.
I know I had previously reviewed 7th Sojourn. From a standard album oriented rock perspective, it has a better form for listening, and traditonal structure. OTOH, Days of Future Passed is a better listen for me. But it isn't everyone's kind of album. Those of us with symphonic background might have a bit more appreciation of the work. Those who don't like that kind of sound, are probably going to be turned off by 30% of this record's content. But make no mistake, this band was among the most innovative in the 1960's. Want to know the guy who first used synthesizers? , via a modified Mellortron? That'd be Michael Pinder of this band. And voice... You'd be hard pressed to find anyone better than Justin Hayward and his full lush and expansive voice on this one, and subsequent works.
What also makes this such a compelling listen, is how this band meshes so many '60's styles and orchestrations into a beautiful mosaic that also makes it not only one of the first prog albums, but also one of the first concept albums. They out played the Beatles, They out psychedelic-ed the Beatles, and in a few cuts even out rocked the Stones. How and why this band was so sadly forgotten and overlooked for their contributions, is a crime. Don't believe me? Give this one a listen, and don't lose site that this is 1967. And the fact that IMO their greatest works... This one and 7th Sojourn function as creative bookends of who are among the greatest pioneers of prog.
Fun Fact: This was among the last standard rock albums available in Mono, and I understand those are to collectors, quite valuable.
Side 1-
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The Day Begins- (The Day Begins)- Excellent orchestral performance by the London Festival Orchestra, with a poetic closing by Pinder, and his great speaking voice. If you bought this album in 1967, you'd thought you'd first be thinking you secured a classical album. I like it. 8
Dawn: Dawn is a Feeling- By now, you are even wondering if this is even a rock album. Dawn is a pleasant and talented effort by the band to lull the listener to think they've gone from classical to contempary. Don't worry, its getting to ready to get fun....... 9
The Morning: Another Morning- The Song has a soft light feel early in, with a signature '60's style and feel. But with the harmonies infused, and so emcompasive interludes between the light sets of stanzas ? You know these guys are toying with their styles to immerse the listener into their world of innovation. 7
Lunch Break: Peak Hour- Really bizarre and beauftiful. The band and its accompanyiing start a contempary almost Gerschwin sounding work, and then half way through the tune..... BANG..... Rock and Roll. Like a sledgehammer. In Rolling Stones '60's fashion ---- PEAK HOUR!!!! Melletron behind the scene steals the show. Great Hayward-Lodge soloing at the end too. 5
Side 2-
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The Afternoon: Forever Afternoon (Tuesday?) / Time To Get Away- Mainstay on the Moody's play list. Beautiful Hayward singing, and concert hall filling instrumentals make this a classic. Songs like this one and others, make this a great relaxation album if in the mood. No one rocks out 100% of the time. 6
The second movement of this work, Time to Get Away- Tuesday afternoon morphs into this masterpiece of songwriitng prowess. Pinder's mellotron work on this is ground breaking. What fascinates me, at least from my perspective is how the listener was lulled into the album by orchestratizations, and hypnotized into a gradually building prog masterpiece. Did I mention Pinder's mellotron work? I know I did, but hearing this in its essence in 1967, continues to amaze me. There are things I heard this round, that I hadn't noticed in the past. Great works will do that. 3
Evening: The Sunset:Twilight Time- More nice orchestrations, and Ray Thomas flute work highlight. Mysterious tempo , and percussion, just throw the listeners into showing how that band has that level of versatility rarely seen in rock. Especially in damned 1967. 2
Twilight Time, the second movement of this track, is my favorite moment on the album. This is the few moments of the album, that allows the band to let all hell break loose. Please listen to how the band phases and intertwines their harmonies into a tsunami of sound. In many ways this is one of the Moody's finest moments, and for some reason they didn't replicate what has that hard sinister, but lush beautiful sound- 1
The Night: Nights in White Satin- The hit on the LP. And deserves those accolades. If you have any background in listenng to rock music, you will easily recognize it. It put them on the map, and the song that introduced the world to the mellotron. Spooky...., especially with the poetic ending and punctuatated by Pinder. Sadly the listening audience weren't provided that treat, and it accenuated the true prog and concept aspects of "A Day" 4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZCzH8q1hcY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZCzH8q1hcY)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Nirvana- Nevermind (1991) **
Part of this process, I have pretty much stuck with albums that I have loved, or at least really liked. Now, in the interest of keeping integrity with that process, I have to diverge to the flip side a tiny bit. But first, a little history of evolution of Rock and Roll, which has been a lot of its charm as it has morphed generationally. Of course some of these trends overlapped genre wise, but this is a semi-chronological 20th century approximate run down of its metamorphous
1956- Pre-history- Elvis, Buddy Holly, Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis
1964- Beatlemania
1967- Sgt. Peppers- Psychodelia
1968- Hendrix revolutionizes how guitar into fuzz and feedback are incorporated into rock music.
1968- Hard Rock, Blues Infused- Yardbirds, Clapton, Led Zeppelin
1969- Singer- Songwriter bastardization from post Byrds area- Van Morrison, Neil Young, Jackson Browne, C, S, & N
1970- Black Sabbath creates Heavy Metal, soon incuding Deep Purple, and Judas Priest
1970- Progressive Rock- King Crimson, Yes, ELP, and Pink Floyd
1972- Shock, Glam- Alice Cooper, Bowie, Stooges, and soon afterwards- Kiss
1975- Punk- Ramones, Sex Pistols, and soon afterwards Clash
1976- AOR domination- Van Halen, Boston, Styx, others.
1979- New Wave- Cars, Police, Talking Heads
1982- The decline starts- Alternative, and somehwat directionless. Rap, Pop, and Dance start easing rock right off the charts. . Many other bands from prior eras continue, but it all seems almost in nostalgia.
1990- Grunge - Bands like Nirvanna, Pearl Jam, Alice In Chains
1996- Era of the Alpha Numeric Rock Bands- Blink 182, Sum 41, 3 Doors Down, Matchbox 20, and a host of others.
I know you might think I am going through some unnecessary detail to history that is not needed, but the point I am bringing up, and sorry if sounds disrespectful, is that the time frame I've bolded, who I call the Nickleback Gen.s almost killed Rock and Roll. Grunge as a genre, was about the most useless, pointless, uninspired, and unimagniative stuff every made in rock and roll. To me this was alll almost jokingly contrived by M-TV punking the music world. I know there are going to be many Gen X's out there wanting to flame me, but..... I challenge you to provide a rebuttal of how this musical genre has really added anything to the equation.
Band of course centers around he tortured and enigmantic Kurt Cobain, who sadly ended his life a few years into his band's success. Most entire album is a mindless numbing buzz punk repititon fest. They make Cobain sound like a poet laureate, but I am sorry..... many of us had better poetry in High School. And IMO, their latter drummer Dave Grohl, actually had better music with his band later on with the Foo Fighters.
Case in point, and hating to sound petty, but if this band and this album is considered your Sargent Pepper's moment. Help us.
Fun Fact: To put Nirvanna's brief career in perspective.... The bands 3 studio albums has had almost 5X the unit sales that Grohl's Foo Fighters has had over 10.
Here goes.....I'll try to keep it as positive as I can.......
Track-
------------
Smells Like Teen Spirit- Mentioned earlier- Pivotal Band, Pivotal Album, and now pivotal song of an entire generation- Hooky song, with a screaming Cobain, and one repetitive riff. Let me put it this way. Wierd Al Yankovic has parodied 100's of songs famously, but I always considered this one that he most most disrespectfully copied. Rightfully so. Still one of the best of this over-rated, over hyped so called classic. 2
In Bloom- In the 1990's seems every other rock song sounded exactly like this. I am hoping and guessing that Cobain sang off-key on purpose? And Cobain the philopsher? **nononono* 7
Come as You Are- The fact this was the 2nd highest charting song on this CD, is really head scratching. Maybe less offensive than others, but...... Crap, I have to sit through nine more these don't I? 3
Breed- Please Don't. 8
Lithium- Actually one of the only decent cuts, I do like how the band works the buzz punk pretty effectively into an innovative way. Still not great, and numbingly repeititve. 1
Polly- More nonsensical shit from Cobain- I feel sorry for the 50,000 garage bands that didn't make it. This is proof. 11
Territorial Pissings- '60's diss? No....More like Punk Blather of no redeeming musical quality. They sound like a shitty Sex Pistols cover band on this one. When I think of Territorial Pissings I think of dogs pissing on trees, marking it theirs. Pretty apt analogy to this crap. 10
Drain You- The bright side, is I only have to listen to 4 more. To me this is an album of half filler, and half noise. 7
Lounge Act- I'll say and share the obvious. This is about as far as Nirvanna should have reached as far as success. I sure wish I could write somethig about a decent song. At least something, this is almost torture. 6
Stay Away- Showed some decent punk chops at first, and then Cobain opened his mouth. I don't think I have ever heard an album that every song was sang so out of tune. I know that might be his schtick, but its damned annoying to me. Meh thinks maybe Nirvanna should have been an instrumental punk band. 5
On a Plain- Even though the tiring repetitive phrasing is driving me crazy, this one is one of the lesser offensive tunes of this wretched classic. Some decent melodic workings- 4
Something in the Way- 888mouth. 12
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vHfriOyeWN0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vHfriOyeWN0)
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Bonus Classic Rock Album of the Day- Journey- Infinity (1978)
A few reviews ago, we had a discussion about how one member of a group can hijack a band into oblivion. Yeah, that ass hole was Dennis DeYoung of Styx. This band is another example, but hilariously the band in this case got the last laugh. That band is Journey. Journey, was a good hard rocking band that had 3 so so albums that barely charted from '75-'77. They had a shredder in the name of Neil Schon, who had great tutorledge under the eye of Carlos Santana. These three albums had some good content, but was just missing that slight edge..... A distinctive voice, and a more public friendly songwriting angle. Enter 1978- Steve Perry.
Perry with his high voice, gave the band their big break. Infinity became Journey's most successful and best seller to that point. At from my POV, this and the following album - Evolution, are near great.
With these two albums, Journey hit the sweet spot of a rocking edge, Perry's voice, and some apparently solid songrwriting chops. Several really good tunes on this album. But then the disaster:
Steve Perry wrestled artistic control of the group, and made them a rocking pop band for the following wildy successful 4 albums. Sadly, with that success Journey became more of a band beloved by teenaged girls than their prior customer base. By the time Perry left the band in '86, I despised what he had done to the product and to the band itself. What made it worse, was the level of finger pointing that took place after the band disbanded. Perry laughingly blamed his bandmates, when everyone on earth knew who the culprit was.
Funny point, and what makes the story different from Styx, is that Journey basically found a clone who sounded more like Perry than Perry himself. Nothing like getting the last laugh, revenge, and the band did have a couple of top 10 charting LP's afterward. Good for them.
But on to Infinity. I could have picked this or Evolution as the creme of that era of the golden age of Journey. Both are very good.
Side 1-
Lights- The world is introducted to Steve Perry with this light hearted rocker that is well hooked, and a solid harmony line, and Schon soloing. 3
Feeling that Way / Anytime- On this album this is two songs, but it SHOULD NEVER be played separately. They are like a neopolitan ice creme. You just don't separate the three out of respect. Starts as a semi-crooning Perry/Rolle duo, that mediun pleasant rocker that abruptly blends and shreds into Anytime, which in the Journey catalog is their expedtion into bad ass Chaos. The melodic cruch of all the instruments at the end of this one is epic, and my favorite moment in the entire Journey collection. 1
La do da- A rocker in the old tradition of Journey that I guess Perry didn't get his grubby hands on. He sings it, but as in the nonsensical lyrical aspects of the song. This is more a song about flexing the axes than the song's meaning. Machine Gun sounds and Schon blaring his stuff, make this a top notch addtion to the LP. 4
Patiently- Geez, first taste of crappy Perry crooning- Sadly, this shit would be what Journey would be about in 3 years. 9
Side 2-
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Wheel in the Sky- Another highy played and memorable number from this excellent in the album. Not only a staple on Classic Rock radio, but powerhouse of where Perry's voice actually worked and augmented well in the band's repitoire. If they had stayed this course, just think how well this band would have kept its legacy, and not sold out- 2
Something to Hide- Lesser fare and more Perry's influence that at least gets some Schon guitar work by mid to late song. Not a memorable one in the grand scheme of Journey's list of tunes. 6
Winds of March- Ditto, minus the Gibson tool. 7
Can Do- Just when you were about to give up, the bandmates come to the rescue, and come back with a number that harkens back to some what Journey was doing in 1975. 5
Opened the Door- More like closed it with a thud. More inane Perry slush. I estimate Perry contributed about 40% of the content. Too bad he just didn't sing, and had shut up about the balladry. 8
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zGVsggMhoT0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zGVsggMhoT0)
I like Journey now more than I did in the 80's -- probably because they're at least closer to the kind of music I really like than is most of the stuff being produced today. Not enough to go see them, but enough to prefer them to other radio schlock. That doesn't apply to the heavy schlock like "Faithfully", though. Still can't stand that stuff.
Completely agree with you on this album, and on Journey's trajectory. I did always like Separate Ways, which to me would have fit stylistically on this album quite well.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Nirvana- Nevermind (1991)
Part of this process, I have pretty much stuck with albums that I have loved, or at least really liked. Now, in the interest of keeping integrity with that process, I have to diverge to the flip side a tiny bit. But first, a little history of evolution of Rock and Roll, which has been a lot of its charm as it has morphed generationally. Of course some of these trends overlapped genre wise, but this is a semi-chronological 20th century approximate run down of its metamorphous
1956- Pre-history- Elvis, Buddy Holly, Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis
1964- Beatlemania
1967- Sgt. Peppers- Psychodelia
1968- Hendrix revolutionizes how guitar into fuzz and feedback are incorporated into rock music.
1968- Hard Rock, Blues Infused- Yardbirds, Clapton, Led Zeppelin
1969- Singer- Songwriter bastardization from post Byrds area- Van Morrison, Neil Young, Jackson Browne, C, S, & N
1970- Black Sabbath creates Heavy Metal, soon incuding Deep Purple, and Judas Priest
1970- Progressive Rock- King Crimson, Yes, ELP, and Pink Floyd
1972- Shock, Glam- Alice Cooper, Bowie, Stooges, and soon afterwards- Kiss
1975- Punk- Ramones, Sex Pistols, and soon afterwards Clash
1976- AOR domination- Van Halen, Boston, Styx, others.
1979- New Wave- Cars, Police, Talking Heads
1982- The decline starts- Alternative, and somehwat directionless. Rap, Pop, and Dance start easing rock right off the charts. . Many other bands from prior eras continue, but it all seems almost in nostalgia.
1990- Grunge - Bands like Nirvanna, Pearl Jam, Alice In Chains
1996- Era of the Alpha Numeric Rock Bands- Blink 182, Sum 41, 3 Doors Down, Matchbox 20, and a host of others.
I know you might think I am going through some unnecessary detail to history that is not needed, but the point I am bringing up, and sorry if sounds disrespectful, is that the time frame I've bolded, who I call the Nickleback Gen.s almost killed Rock and Roll. Grunge as a genre, was about the most useless, pointless, uninspired, and unimagniative stuff every made in rock and roll. To me this was alll almost jokingly contrived by M-TV punking the music world. I know there are going to be many Gen X's out there wanting to flame me, but..... I challenge you to provide a rebuttal of how this musical genre has really added anything to the equation.
Band of course centers around he tortured and enigmantic Kurt Cobain, who sadly ended his life a few years into his band's success. Most entire album is a mindless numbing buzz punk repititon fest. They make Cobain sound like a poet laureate, but I am sorry..... many of us had better poetry in High School. And IMO, their latter drummer Dave Grohl, actually had better music with his band later on with the Foo Fighters.
Case in point, and hating to sound petty, but if this band and this album is considered your Sargent Pepper's moment. Help us.
Here goes.....I'll try to keep it as positive as I can.......
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Smells Like Teen Spirit- Mentioned earlier- Pivotal Band, Pivotal Album, and now pivotal song of an entire generation- Hooky song, with a screaming Cobain, and one repetitive riff. Let me put it this way. Wierd Al Yankovic has parodied 100's of songs famously, but I always considered this one that he most most disrespectfully copied. Rightfully so. Still one of the best of this over-rated, over hyped so called classic. 2
In Bloom- In the 1990's seems every other rock song sounded exactly like this. I am hoping and guessing that Cobain sang off-key on purpose? And Cobain the philopsher? **nononono* 7
Come as You Are- The fact this was the 2nd highest charting song on this CD, is really head scratching. Maybe less offensive than others, but...... Crap, I have to sit through nine more these don't I? 3
Breed- Please Don't. 8
Lithium- Actually one of the only decent cuts, I do like how the band works the buzz punk pretty effectively into an innovative way. Still not great, and numbingly repeititve. 1
Polly- More nonsensical shit from Cobain- I feel sorry for the 50,000 garage bands that didn't make it. This is proof. 11
Territorial Pissings- '60's diss? No....More like Punk Blather of no redeeming musical quality. They sound like a shitty Sex Pistols cover band on this one. When I think of Territorial Pissings I think of dogs pissing on trees, marking it theirs. Pretty apt analogy to this crap. 10
Drain You- The bright side, is I only have to listen to 4 more. To me this is an album of half filler, and half noise. 7
Lounge Act- I'll say and share the obvious. This is about as far as Nirvanna should have reached as far as success. I sure wish I could write somethig about a decent song. At least something, this is almost torture. 6
Stay Away- Showed some decent punk chops at first, and then Cobain opened his mouth. I don't think I have ever heard an album that every song was sang so out of tune. I know that might be his schtick, but its damned annoying to me. Meh thinks maybe Nirvanna should have been an instrumental punk band. 5
On a Plain- Even though the tiring repetitive phrasing is driving me crazy, this one is one of the lesser offensive tunes of this wretched classic. Some decent melodic workings- 4
Something in the Way- 888mouth. 12
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vHfriOyeWN0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vHfriOyeWN0)
Don't like most of this album. However....
My brother and I are both classic/progressive rock guys, and I can remember hanging out at his house during my Thanksgiving break from law school in 1991. It was after midnight, and MTV had been on in the background and neither of us had really noticed it because it was all hair bands and pop crap. Then "Smells Like Teen Spirit" came on, and we both just stared at it. I remember one or the other of us saying something like "wow", and the other agreeing. Yes, it's overplayed and all that, but there was something about it that was a great antidote to the increasingly poppy sound of the 80's hair bands. I don't really know how to analyze the quality of that song, but I can say it is one of the very few songs where I remember exactly where and when I was when I first heard it.
That being said, I generally detest grunge as being just boring and self-indulgent as hell. Songs like "Plush" by Stone Temple Pilots make me want to jam pencils in my ears. So maybe one reasons I like Smells Like Teen Spirit is the exact reason so many grunge fans don't like it.
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I like Journey now more than I did in the 80's -- probably because they're at least closer to the kind of music I really like than is most of the stuff being produced today. Not enough to go see them, but enough to prefer them to other radio schlock. That doesn't apply to the heavy schlock like "Faithfully", though. Still can't stand that stuff.
Completely agree with you on this album, and on Journey's trajectory. I did always like Separate Ways, which to me would have fit stylistically on this album quite well.
Did see Journey in 1982 in the Astrodome, and they were very sloppy. Voltage and spotlights were amped up on Perry, Schon's solos were subdued, and whole performance pretty much a disappointment. Hagar and Santana were actually more enjoyable listens.
Seeing Perry wrestle artistic control of the band was like Styx. A slow moving train wreck. No doubt he prefered the pop star persona. Because..... If the band had made albums like this one and Evolution, their legacy as a "rock band" would have been considerably better.
I have noticed, like you, that Journey among other bands are doing what I call the Casino Circuit. So far, I have resisted going to any of these, because I am afraid they are going to be sad nostalgic types of gigs. I prefer to remember them when they were really rocking, and at their prime.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- The Moody Blues- Days of Future Passed - (1967)
We've had great discussions about the early days of Prog, and including trying to dissect when and where it was born. About a half dozen examples could be thrown out there. This is my actual pick. The Moody Blues Days of Future Passed was released in November 1967- less than 6 months after Sgt. Peppers. I might get into blaspheme territory, but in several ways The Moody Blues were better than the Beatles. Especially in musicianship. They in true prog fashion had compostions that were more lush, more complex, and intricate too. But of course, the Moody's did not have that cultural entrenchment and absolute ability of ultra-masterful songwriting. And for that the Beatles were the iconic, among the iconic.
I know I had previously reviewed 7th Sojourn. From a standard album oriented rock perspective, it has a better form for listening, and traditonal structure. OTOH, Days of Future Passed is a better listen for me. But it isn't everyone's kind of album. Those of us with symphonic background might have a bit more appreciation of the work. Those who don't like that kind of sound, are probably going to be turned off by 30% of this record's content. But make no mistake, this band was among the most innovative in the 1960's. Want to know the guy who first used synthesizers? , via a modified Mellortron? That'd be Michael Pinder of this band. And voice... You'd be hard pressed to find anyone better than Justin Hayward and his full lush and expansive voice on this one, and subsequent works.
What also makes this such a compelling listen, is how this band meshes so many '60's styles and orchestrations into a beautiful mosaic that also makes it not only one of the first prog albums, but also one of the first concept albums. They out played the Beatles, They out psychedelic-ed the Beatles, and in a few cuts even out rocked the Stones. How and why this band was so sadly forgotten and overlooked for their contributions, is a crime. Don't believe me? Give this one a listen, and don't lose site that this is 1967. And the fact that IMO their greatest works... This one and 7th Sojourn function as creative bookends of who are among the greatest pioneers of prog.
Fun Fact: This was among the last standard rock albums available in Mono, and I understand those are to collectors, quite valuable.
Side 1-
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The Day Begins- (The Day Begins)- Excellent orchestral performance by the London Festival Orchestra, with a poetic closing by Pinder, and his great speaking voice. If you bought this album in 1967, you'd thought you'd first be thinking you secured a classical album. I like it. 8
Dawn: Dawn is a Feeling- By now, you are even wondering if this is even a rock album. Dawn is a pleasant and talented effort by the band to lull the listener to think they've gone from classical to contempary. Don't worry, its getting to ready to get fun....... 9
The Morning: Another Morning- The Song has a soft light feel early in, with a signature '60's style and feel. But with the harmonies infused, and so emcompasive interludes between the light sets of stanzas ? You know these guys are toying with their styles to immerse the listener into their world of innovation. 7
Lunch Break: Peak Hour- Really bizarre and beauftiful. The band and its accompanyiing start a contempary almost Gerschwin sounding work, and then half way through the tune..... BANG..... Rock and Roll. Like a sledgehammer. In Rolling Stones '60's fashion ---- PEAK HOUR!!!! Melletron behind the scene steals the show. Great Hayward-Lodge soloing at the end too. 5
Side 2-
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The Afternoon: Forever Afternoon (Tuesday?) / Time To Get Away- Mainstay on the Moody's play list. Beautiful Hayward singing, and concert hall filling instrumentals make this a classic. Songs like this one and others, make this a great relaxation album if in the mood. No one rocks out 100% of the time. 6
The second movement of this work, Time to Get Away- Tuesday afternoon morphs into this masterpiece of songwriitng prowess. Pinder's mellotron work on this is ground breaking. What fascinates me, at least from my perspective is how the listener was lulled into the album by orchestratizations, and hypnotized into a gradually building prog masterpiece. Did I mention Pinder's mellotron work? I know I did, but hearing this in its essence in 1967, continues to amaze me. There are things I heard this round, that I hadn't noticed in the past. Great works will do that. 3
Evening: The Sunset:Twilight Time- More nice orchestrations, and Ray Thomas flute work highlight. Mysterious tempo , and percussion, just throw the listeners into showing how that band has that level of versatility rarely seen in rock. Especially in damned 1967. 2
Twilight Time, the second movement of this track, is my favorite moment on the album. This is the few moments of the album, that allows the band to let all hell break loose. Please listen to how the band phases and intertwines their harmonies into a tsunami of sound. In many ways this is one of the Moody's finest moments, and for some reason they didn't replicate what has that hard sinister, but lush beautiful sound- 1
The Night: Nights in White Satin- The hit on the LP. And deserves those accolades. If you have any background in listenng to rock music, you will easily recognize it. It put them on the map, and the song that introduced the world to the mellotron. Spooky...., especially with the poetic ending and punctuatated by Pinder. Sadly the listening audience weren't provided that treat, and it accenuated the true prog and concept aspects of "A Day" 4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZCzH8q1hcY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZCzH8q1hcY)
Great album - I saw them once and they were -- happily -- a bit heavier than they were in the studio. Although I do remember them having a second drummer despite having some of the least percussive music in rock. But while Graeme Edge was just kind of going through the motions at that point (and you could argue he was always just going through the motions...), Lodge and Hayward were still very good. I've always kind of wondered what the Moodies might have done with a better drummer.
Anyway, love this album.
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Don't like most of this album. However....
My brother and I are both classic/progressive rock guys, and I can remember hanging out at his house during my Thanksgiving break from law school in 1991. It was after midnight, and MTV had been on in the background and neither of us had really noticed it because it was all hair bands and pop crap. Then "Smells Like Teen Spirit" came on, and we both just stared at it. I remember one or the other of us saying something like "wow", and the other agreeing. Yes, it's overplayed and all that, but there was something about it that was a great antidote to the increasingly poppy sound of the 80's hair bands. I don't really know how to analyze the quality of that song, but I can say it is one of the very few songs where I remember exactly where and when I was when I first heard it.
That being said, I generally detest grunge as being just boring and self-indulgent as hell. Songs like "Plush" by Stone Temple Pilots make me want to jam pencils in my ears. So maybe one reasons I like Smells Like Teen Spirit is the exact reason so many grunge fans don't like it.
You hit the nail on the head, as Nirvanna was a groundbreaking departure. And I am 100% agreement around the '80's hair band era. I generally don't even acknowldege that it as an valid aspect of rock and roll history. Too me, these particpants were parody jokes of great bands like Zeppelin and Purple. That is the reasoning you'll never hear me mention the likes of Poison, Motley Crue, Quiet Riot, etc.
That is why I think that drastic departure is why Nirvanna was so impactful. Joke was over. :beer:
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Great album - I saw them once and they were -- happily -- a bit heavier than they were in the studio. Although I do remember them having a second drummer despite having some of the least percussive music in rock. But while Graeme Edge was just kind of going through the motions at that point (and you could argue he was always just going through the motions...), Lodge and Hayward were still very good. I've always kind of wondered what the Moodies might have done with a better drummer.
Anyway, love this album.
I am pretty damned jealous that you got to see the Moody Blues. How was Hayward's latter era voice? I know we had previous discussions of how great Lake's was. IMO...Justin Hayward was up in that echelon too. Not sure you've seen this pre-historic music video. Though it is a Ray Thomas centered tune, it is just so indicative of the era, and bonus points for the guys appearing to be trippin'. The lushness of the combo of mello and harmonies makes this one seductively mesmerizing song. Early prog, at it's best.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r_TbovyVOzs (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r_TbovyVOzs)
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But while Graeme Edge was just kind of going through the motions at that point (and you could argue he was always just going through the motions...), Lodge and Hayward were still very good. I've always kind of wondered what the Moodies might have done with a better drummer.
Thought you might get a kick out what I'd call a "fun fact". Edge actually had a couple of Moody's spin off albums. And I acually have the first one (got it a bargain bin in the late '70's), sillily called "Kick Off Your Muddy Boots". Yeah, its musical value was pretty much limited to being a frisbee. :cool:
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Major's Prog Album of the, er, fortnight: "Trespass", Genesis, 1970
Though this wasn't Genesis' first album (From Genesis to Revelation was), it was their first album where they put their feet squarely into progressive rock, and at the ripe old ages of 19-20 years old at that. I started with this one because I think it is interesting to see where it falls in sort of the Great Progressive Timeline. It came after In the Court of the Crimson King, but before anything by ELP, and before Yes' second album, Time and a Word, so it was before Yes really hit its own stride with The Yes Album. So what they were doing here was comparatively new, and that's usually a fun listen.
The most influential member of the band at this point was guitarist Anthony Phillips, who was seen by the rest of the band as the most technically proficient and professional member of the group. He ended up leaving the band after this album because of debilitating stage fright, but to this day is viewed by very favorably by the core members of Genesis who still talk about his influence in their interviews. He was a big fan of the 12 string guitar, and that interplay with keyboardist Tony Banks arguably is the defining "Genesis sound". Apart from vocalist/flautist Peter Gabriel and bassist (and occasional 12-stringer himself) Mike Rutherford, the other member of the band was drummer John Mayhew. While older than the other members of the band, they considered him an inadequate drummer who basically had to be told what to play, and he was replaced after this album. His drumming here is...uninspired.
So, on to the album. The overall sound quality is not great, and there is a sparseness/hollowness to some of the songs that they hadn't quite figured out how to fill. There are only 6 songs on the album, so that was a lot of space to fill. Their reach exceeded their grasp at this point, so to speak. But substituting space for intricacy isn't always a bad choice, and this is one I still listen to regularly. Still, a remarkably innovative album for a bunch of kids who were so young. Gabriel's Genesis-era vocals are polarizing. He's got that incredibly interesting aged quality to his very thick tenor sound, but especially on some of the later albums, has some voice characterizations/histrionics that can be overblown. That is less of an issue on this album where is vocals tend to be more restrained, so it one of my favorite classic Genesis albums when it comes to his vocals.
Side 1:
Looking for Someone - This one was written when none of the core members had even hit 20 - Phillips was only 18. This opens with Gabriel singing acapella for a few bars, which is a nicely unusual way to kick off an album, then some dramatic piano and keyboard bits working with Phillips on guitar. You can hear the ambition in what they were trying to do, and they partially pull it off. 4
White Mountain - This is a somewhat silly sing about one wolf stealing the sceptre and crown of the king wolf, and their eventual battle for leadership of the pack. A silly as it is, Phillips 12 string work is still really impressive, and give more musical depth to this song that it might otherwise have had. As on most of this album, Mayhew just keeps inserting these rolling drum fills, likely because he doesn't know what else to do. 6
Visions of Angels - This one starts off with a nice piano intro by Banks, and moves into basically an end of the world ballad with a lot of dramatic keyboard work. Pretty good. 3
Side 2
Stagnation - This is a long piece, and really is the closest thing to the classic Genesis sound of interweaving guitars and keyboards that would be heard on their later albums. It opens with a gently romantic and somewhat stagnant piece driven by Phillips 12-string, light keyboards, and Gabriel's restrained vocals, then moves into a quiet duet between Phillips and Banks. Then around the 3 minute mark, it takes off into a more intricate, aggressive jam, which alternates with some vocal cuts before ramping up again. This song rises above the rest of the album, and when the band went looking for a new drummer and guitarist after this album, this is the song they identified in their ad as the direction in which they wanted to go. While they later rolled their own eyes at a lot of this album, this is one song of which they are still very proud. 1
Dusk - A low key, gentle ballad with some nice instrument work, including Gabriel's flute. 5 Maybe should have flipped this rating with Looking for Someone.
The Knife - This takes the theme of "Won't Get Fooled Again" and transposes it to a more openly violent form. Heaviest song on the album, and was the centerpiece of their early concerts, where it would be extended and amped up. Opens with an insistent Hammond organ hammering a riff, then distorted guitar kicks in with a martial drumbeat. Gabriel kicks in with the lines "Tell me my life is about to begin, tell me that I'm a hero. Promise me all of your violent dreams, light up your bodies with anger", to set the mood. Some gunshots enter the mix at one point, along with the repeated line "Some of you are going to die, martyrs of course for the freedom that I will provide." A bit simplistic, and could really have used a better drummer, but you can see how the heaviness of this song could have resonated in concert. Again, impressive for a bunch of kids. 2
Click on full link below the video to jump to full album
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQjOqzYfC3P0yfaXfoiueYHvK8Obbc8jd
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I am pretty damned jealous that you got to see the Moody Blues. How was Hayward's latter era voice? I know we had previous discussions of how great Lake's was. IMO...Justin Hayward was up in that echelon too. Not sure you've seen this pre-historic music video. Though it is a Ray Thomas centered tune, it is just so indicative of the era, and bonus points for the guys appearing to be trippin'. The lushness of the combo of mello and harmonies makes this one seductively mesmerizing song. Early prog, at it's best.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r_TbovyVOzs (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r_TbovyVOzs)
It was probably maybe 12-14 years ago or so, but Hayward's voice was still very good. And you're right about Moodies using the Mellotron with their harmonies. I don't think anyone else really did that -- Ian McDonald did some backing vocals for Lake with King Crimson, but they weren't really harmonizing the way Hayward and Lodge did.
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Thought you might get a kick out what I'd call a "fun fact". Edge actually had a couple of Moody's spin off albums. And I acually have the first one (got it a bargain bin in the late '70's), sillily called "Kick Off Your Muddy Boots". Yeah, its musical value was pretty much limited to being a frisbee. :cool:
A Frisbee has more edge to it than did...Edge. His incredibly bland drumming never really pushed the rest of the band, and I think they could have jumped up a level if they'd have been more able to up the aggression on occasion.
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Major's Prog Album of the, er, fortnight: "Trespass", Genesis, 1970
Really enjoyed this review Major. I will first have to be candidly honest... I didn't know this album existed. I really didn't get introduced to this apsect of music and band until about the "Selling England by the Pound" timeframe" timeframe. I had an anglo-phile pioneer prog friend who frequented the complation of King Crimson, Tull, PF, Gentle Giant, etc.
But by now, this was into about the '74ish time. And me? I though was really enjoying the more mainstream fare of ELP and Yes, was not listening as much to Genesis. But before digressing more, I did enjoy hearing how the early aspects of this band sounded, and I especially was fascinated by how the early dynamics between Gabriel and Banks were working. No offense to Hackett, Collins, and Rutherford, but these guys were the heart, soul, and brains of the group.
I especially liked "The Knife".... it seemed to have that aura and feel of what made Genesis great and harkens forward with the seeds of inspiration of future band topical type of fare. Especially in the spectauclar stage presence and performance that hallmarked the band later.
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Glad you liked it. It does get overlooked a lot because they really didn't hit a more popular stride until Foxtrot/Selling Englang. I suppose I'll just do some of the other albums at some point because I think they have a really interesting history, and not quite the one most casual fans think where it all becomes pre/post Gabriel. I do think some of the stuff they were trying to do at that age is pretty remarkable. You just don't see 18 year olds writing stuff for 12 string and piano in a rock context, so I have enormous respect for their ambition even if it didn't always result in the greatest product. Gabriel's vocals get to be a bit much on some of their stuff, and can intrude on some damn musicianship. Weird that he actually became must less of a "prog" guy after leaving Genesis.
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Weird that he actually became must less of a "prog" guy after leaving Genesis.
To most music listeners he's the guy who did "Sledgehammer", which is about as non-prog as you can get.
Which is a tribute to his the acutal versatile nature of his songwriting.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Dire Straits- Making Movies- 1980 ****
Was introduced to this album by USA Network Nightflight as kind of a pre-MTV episode, as a trio of semi-themed suite of videos. Not only were those prehistoric videos done beautifully and artfully, Knopler shot the wad with all the marbles with Side 1. I can honestly say that they aren't many albums out there that are this that good and lopsided in that manner in one side. There are some damned good tunes on Side 2 also, but not at the same level of greatness of the Movie-trio
Mark Knopler made great albums prior and after this LP, but at least in my eyes this album, and particularly Side 1 is an absolute masterpiece of beautifully entrenched smooth flowing blues guitar and a voice that fits the music in a glove like manner. When listening to this album, at least from my POV, I almost have to listen to all three to get the level of enjoymnet and understanding of how fine this work is, and how great a job Knopler did. If you do enjoy Dire Straits, I recommend as a companion the next album in sequence, "Love Over Gold." Same great feel and talent, just a different tone and artistic sense of flow of the LP.
Also, for the sake of the listening experience, I am including the full album, and the Movie suite in order. That will give you the full experience as the band intended. They are art, by themselves.
Fun Fact: If some of the studio sound has a familar feel, understand that the infamous Jimmy Iovine produced this album. Many huge bands in the day employed him in the day, and used him many times, like Petty, Springsteen, and Nicks. Iovine is also well known for being the producer of wildly successful music soundtrack "The Breakfast Club"
Side 1-
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Tunnel of Love- Carnival feeling opening gives rise to some sharp Knopler licks. If the song sounds familar to some, it did appear in the movie Officer and a Gentleman, but not sure how or why that is there except from maybe some randomness. Great songwriting, and some imaginative imagery around the hazards of the affairs of the heart. 3
Romeo and Juliet- Doing this on Valentine's Day is pretty timely doing this reivew. More on the topic of Love. Knopler slows down a few RPM, and slow rolls a beautiful soulful ballad that includes some absolutely fantastic smooth Neo-classical feeling guitar. Ingenious lyricism that almost takes a sarcastic metaphorical look at modern love, not withstanding with a Shakespearen slant. Waiing guitar at the end? Wow..... he is an artist. 2
Skateaway- Most musically upbeat of the suite. Nice flowing drum reptit, keyboard, and more smooth flowing guitar accentuate this spectuatular song. Still the song in its upbeat nature underscores what seems to be the melancoly heart and soul of a lonely woman living her life vicariously with her music zig and zagging out of traffic. Almost fixation and transference to her music as life. 1
Side 2-
-----------
Expresso Love- Band starts S-2, with a rocking number that hits the mark nicely. Really good keyboard guitar interplay that does it well, and keeps the vibe moving.
Knopler continues the metaphorical plays on male-female interaction, pretty much focusing on the night club scene, at least on this one 5
Hand in Hand- Softer number that I understand that Knopler wanted to give some variation. Of course it hits the mark (pun?) for those who like the lighter side of the equation. Definitely, not filler but not want I want from DS. 6
Solid Rock- Best on Side 2- This song has the back bone and riffs/licks that you will hear in much more expressive detail on "Industrial Disease" from "Love Over Gold". A really good rollicking number from that side of Strait's repitorie. 4
Les Boys- ??? WTF. 19th century sounding and tinged number that will just leave you speechless and wondering what they were thinking. I have no idea of how, why, or if the band were sane putting this on an album that otherwise was overall a classic. I challenge anyone reading this to explain it. I sure can't. 7
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6F9_HwtwF8I (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6F9_HwtwF8I)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gAirINwjaxE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gAirINwjaxE)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rC95MEenIxA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rC95MEenIxA)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vcwl-Q7pAtY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vcwl-Q7pAtY)
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It was probably maybe 12-14 years ago or so, but Hayward's voice was still very good. And you're right about Moodies using the Mellotron with their harmonies. I don't think anyone else really did that -- Ian McDonald did some backing vocals for Lake with King Crimson, but they weren't really harmonizing the way Hayward and Lodge did.
I went and saw the MB in approximately the same time frame. I don't even pretend to be as knowledgeable as ya'll...but it is in my to 10 fav concerts. Relatively small venue. They sounded awesome! For comparison, I wish I could have heard them back in the day. :laugh:
The only thing I didn't initially like was...they had a huge background screen that showed concerts of the early days and their audiences. Then they would show themselves and pan the current audience.
At first it made me feel oldish...but then I appreciated the contrast. We've come a long way, baby, and today we don't have to tell people dancing on their seats in front of ya to sit the heck down!!
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Classic Rock Album of the Day - Queen- Queen- 1973 ****
Another review of an immensely talented group of musicans and songwriters. I don't think I have to tell anyone here, that this band was big, I mean really big. The band in the original lineup had 14 studio albums that were wildly successful. Some estimates have shown that they have sold upwards to near 300,000,000 units , putting them 5th all time behind Elvis, Beatles, Michael Jackson, and Elton John. Their catalog is so extensive, and discussing their hits and accolades would take pages of discussion.
The band of course if headed by the incredible flexible and versatile front man, Freddy Mercury. Many rock polls have him arguably the greatest voice in rock of all time. Again, debatable, but no one can dispute that this is an amazing voice with crazy range, and power. The rest of the band are masters of their craft.... Brian May on the Strat, John Deacon on Bass, Roger Taylor, drums...... All considered top tier practioners of their trade. I don't think anyone can dispute them as the Kings (Queens?) of Glam Rock, and no one comes even close. Their sound is expansive, with majestic and often searing riffs, and overall masterful musicanship. There is no dead air in sound of this group. It is a rock of a wall of sound , much in the way that Pink Floyd and Rush does.
My favorite by this band might be a shocker to those who know this group well.... It's their least successful tracking LP, #83 in U.S. While there are many many more familar albums by Queen, I enjoy their debut album the best. For a couple reasons, inluding (1) It's has the most rock based edge than any other (2) Queen rightfully and by choice took a gradual and more pop route at each successive album, and (3) The rawness, and missing slick production values give the album a unique feel and grinding sound. Maybe the least "Glam" of the Lot. There may be overall albums that have better songs, like II, and Night at the Opera, but if I have a choice to blow the dust off the vinyl, and put one in particular on the turntable..... This is the one.
No doubt the later stuff is great too, but extreme commerical success brought extreme pretentiousness in their music, and slavery to pop tendencies. I rather opt to any one of the first 3 Queen LP's., than the final 11.
Fun Facts: (1) Not even one song from this album cracked the U.S. single charts , and that means none ever made the top #100. (2) Guitarist Brian May is an advanced degreed and published Astrophysicist. Did not complete phD program though.
Side 1-
-----------
Keep Yourself Alive- Rocking right out of the chute. Nice crunched strumming highlights this well crafted one. One thing about Queen, is they are also among the best at hooking in their songwriting. Not near as much early on here, but everyone knows and recognizes the many so familiar songs in their catalog. If you want to hear one song on the album.... This is the one. 1
Doing Alright- How many men in rock in history could do soprano, and hold a note with projection to the level Mercury could? An excellent light almost jazzy ballad that scares the shit out of you as it starts rocking out like a slamming door. 3
Great King Rat- Love the fact that Queen loved to use English like story telling and phrasing, especially in the 1st 3 albums. Would have loved to have seen Queen do some themed like prog type stuff with styles like this, and their others. This song likely gave the future thought to Ogre Battle (from II) as some of the mid parts take a real majestic turn and angle to the music. 4
My Fariy King- More English themed mythological story telling, again in an alternating light and airy /. heavy hand that blends into some of the best keyboard work on the LP. Again, a lot of the precurssor of the backbone of what Ogre Battle would become. 5
Side 2-
------------------
Liar- Maybe the most tradional rocker of the album- A good bit of the song sounds like it could have been from Zeppelin, except when certain parts get into the complex phasing intracies that are typical of Queens works. Especially that span of time. The song also goes off into some innovative tangents that this band uses to highlight their talents. 6
The Night Comes Down- May/Deacon jazz like jamming highlight that gives way to their trademarked "Procession" toned guitar sound. Overall song is a ballad in essence, and probably the weakest on the LP. Which would be a really decent tune, on another bands work. 10
Son and Daughter- Heaviest rock sound on the LP. Sounds a lot like of other rock we were hearing in the early 1970's. Nothing that great 9
Jesus- Marched Tempo stoic in nature that is an incredible hooked tune that I found among the most listenable on the album . Song is done respectfully in a religious way. Song also has my favorite May solo work on the entire LP. Band as the only example on the LP cuts at the end to pure vocal harmonies in a spectacular manner. Those vocals as in similar to Bohemian Rhapsody, shorter, but no less effective. 2
Modern Times Rock and Roller- I had forgotten that there was a song that Mercury did not sing (Taylor) Works well, just seems strange. 6
Seven Seasons of Rye- I was intially puzzled by this, and had thought I had remembered that this was on II. Come to find out, this is a sample (exiting), while the entire song starts Queen II. Which is a better listen. 7
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BIw_Bjp9_4I (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BIw_Bjp9_4I)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- INXS- Listen Like Thieves- (1985) ***
Today's installment involves a band that really grooved and squeezed through the New Wave and Alternative genres in a really effective and consitently competent manner through their hay day 1982-1987. In fact, my watering hole and local bar had them booked as a lounge act in 1982, and sadly they couldn't pull it off due to scheduling conflicts. Of course in my little corner of Texas, at the time, I might have been the only person aware of the band INXS. Man do I ever wish that gig had taken place.
I earlier used this term competent to describe INXS. That is the the absolute case, in that there are 5 backing guys who remained in relative anonymity, but all had solid and much above average chops on the New Wave, funky, alternative resume', and they were as good as any of their peers at the time in the early '80's. Certainly as good or better than their closest peer Duran Duran. But what truly made this band was the soulful sound, voice, and presence of their front man Michael Hutchence. He meant more to this band than Jagger to the Stones, or Steven Tyler to Aerosmith. From the crazy video of the scene of "The One Thing" where the band sexually assaulted their meals with their dates, to the Funky Bluesy "Suicide Blond". Hutcheson exuded an implict and explicit sexuality with it's band sound that made your feet move, and got you lost in the musical moments '80 quissenital 1980's.
Of course the book for all practical purposes on INXS sadly ended in 1997 with the death of Hutcheson. Apparently he was an early victim of sexual self asphixation. Strange way to go, and the band though they stayed togehter, never recovered even with a number of different other Front Men. And as far as the band's potential legacy. they were in somewhat of a creative and commerical funk in the '90's, but I am sure that the band had plenty of more to give to music history.
Plus a little pre-warning..... This Albums best moments are on Side 1- Not sure why the band decided to not to even out the quality, but if you have time constraints, stick with the 1st side.
Fun Fact: Band still exists, and outside the lead singer, the band has never had a lineup change. Same 5 since Day 1. (1977-2023)
Side 1-
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What You Need- Funky opening, with thundering bass and well oiled sax infusiatum. . Large hit for the band. and a strong opening response after the previous album which honestly was weaker than its two predecessor. (The Swing) INXS let the world know, they were back. 3
Listen Like Thieves- Title Song on the LP, and by far the best on the album. Easily one of their best 1 of 3 in their entire catalog. Outstanding hooked chord progression, with still just a tad of that funky guitar that you see in a lot of INXS work. Last verse uses that chordal pattern with some nice wailing guitrar solo work to seal the deal. 1
Kiss the Dirt (Falling Down the Mountain) Nice rolling rocker with some aboriginal touches that are xylophone-ish by mid song. The tune starts rocking out significantly and aburptly and nicely, starts building on same patterns. Great song. 2
Shine Like it Does- Pleasant softer number. Well crafted synth added that gives a nice upbeat feel. 6
Good and Bad Times- Duran-Duranish new wave in sound and syncopative style. Quite a drop after the first 4 on Side 1. 10
Side 2-
----------------
Biting Bullets- Another New Wave number that harkens more to a 1970's kind of work than the rest of the album. Hutcheson sang this very atypical to his normal style, going more in the mode of scream than sing. As far as stacking it against the rest of the album? About the middle. 7
This Time- Slower meter, but the song almost has a Stones kind of aura to it. Can't exactly put my finger on it, but it might be how they deliver the harmonies.- 9
Three Sisters- Synth sound effects dominate in a strange manner. I think they were trying to sound or mimic crickets, bugs, and birds, but I really couldn't see the intent of this silliness. Play around in the studio guys.... not on the vinyl. - 11
Same Direction- Now this is the real sleeper on the LP. This one could almost qualify as hard rock. Song also has a "Cars" Hearbeat City kind of mottiffed sound to it too. Best on Side 2- 4
One X One- Blues based Hutcheson screamer with horns to boot. Probably one that would mostly appeal to their hard core fans, because styllistically it doesn't seem to fit on this album. 8
Red Red Sun- Another hard rocker that is well hooked that included vocalized triplets in its delivery. That is pretty odd and unusual for popular music if you thnk about it. Some of the better guitar runs, though they do sound a bit forced. Jimmy Page, you aren't. 5
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ou02PrSEsOw (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ou02PrSEsOw)
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To most music listeners he's the guy who did "Sledgehammer", which is about as non-prog as you can get.
Which is a tribute to his the acutal versatile nature of his songwriting.
I've seen him a few times, mostly back in the 80's. So wildly different from Genesis, but very good. And he was a great showman. I remember him closing with "Lay Your Hands on Me", which has a great percussive groove, and then falling back into the crowd and crowd surfing while the band kept jamming. Great show. See if I can find a clip of him doing that somewhere...Here we go. I think this is from the tour I saw where he did this - though I remember the bass and drums being heavier/more powerful live:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fXqEZfOHjh8
That was from the second tour I saw. The first tour I saw, the band led with Intruder, and the drummer was the only one on stage. The rest of the band slowly with the band emerged out of the dark from different points in the crowd with these powerful flashlights looking all over, slowly walking up to the stage. Very cool visual implementation of the song's theme of a night-time criminal break-in. Can't find the band doing that, but the song is still suitably creepy live:
That's Phil Collins on the drums with the first use of that awesome gated reverb on his drums. Great sound.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yxA8I2edT1o
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I went and saw the MB in approximately the same time frame. I don't even pretend to be as knowledgeable as ya'll...but it is in my to 10 fav concerts. Relatively small venue. They sounded awesome! For comparison, I wish I could have heard them back in the day. :laugh:
Heh -- let me stop you right there. The only reason I'm knowledgeable about certain bands is that I'm cursed with ridiculously picky tastes, which sadly limits the kind of music I enjoy. So I know a lot, but only about the narrow area of my interests. I envy @catfish1957 both for his broader tastes, and for his incredible knowledge about the much wider variety of music he enjoys.
It honestly does suck when most everyone else can enjoy a piece of music, and I just can't wait for it to end. Ugh.
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@catfish1957
I'm really glad you do this stuff because I listen to some stuff I don't normally here. I sometimes don't have time to listen to the whole album, but I do usually hit the highlights. Me being picky me, I can't get passed Knopfler's vocals, though he is a great guitarist. And for some reason, I've never been a fan of Mercury's voice either -- maybe that's the pretension you identified, but I did really like some of the music on that album. Great King Rat definitely had a bit of a Genesis vibe to it at points, and I really did enjoy that one. I think maybe their issue for me is that there are sometimes too many hooks, and too much brightness from Mercury's vocals. The dark bits in Great King Rat made that one a lot more interesting for me.
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Heh -- let me stop you right there. The only reason I'm knowledgeable about certain bands is that I'm cursed with ridiculously picky tastes, which sadly limits the kind of music I enjoy. So I know a lot, but only about the narrow area of my interests. I envy @catfish1957 both for his broader tastes, and for his incredible knowledge about the much wider variety of music he enjoys.
It honestly does suck when most everyone else can enjoy a piece of music, and I just can't wait for it to end. Ugh.
@Maj. Bill Martin
Wow, that is an incredible compliment and praise, but I don't consider myself that knowledgeable much around music. I especially shut the door on interest on all around all new music soon after 2000. Ask me about anything after say 2002?.... I'll be clueless.
In the case of modern music, I can barely differentate between Rhiana and Beyonce.
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@catfish1957
I'm really glad you do this stuff because I listen to some stuff I don't normally here. I sometimes don't have time to listen to the whole album, but I do usually hit the highlights. Me being picky me, I can't get passed Knopfler's vocals, though he is a great guitarist. And for some reason, I've never been a fan of Mercury's voice either -- maybe that's the pretension you identified, but I did really like some of the music on that album. Great King Rat definitely had a bit of a Genesis vibe to it at points, and I really did enjoy that one. I think maybe their issue for me is that there are sometimes too many hooks, and too much brightness from Mercury's vocals. The dark bits in Great King Rat made that one a lot more interesting for me.
Thanks, you have such a great perspective on music, that is so often spot on. I am 100% agreement on Queen/Mercury comments. Some music can be ultimae talent value , but not the reach aesthetic preference of the listener. I have often listed Tarkus as the ultmate complex rock compostion , though to 95% of the rock audience, its sounds like a garbled mess. The same can be said about much of Queen's pretenious work, at least from my POV. One of the most interesting aspects of listening and watching bands with longevity is seeing how they adjust and change due to commerical, artistic, and often band interaction pressures. We've previously had good discussions of how Dennis DeYoung and Steve Perry pretty much ruined their bands, but in the case of Queen, I don't think you can say that Freddie Mercury ruined them. He took them to stratospheric heights commerically, but much of that was at the cost of overshawdoing the other outstanding band members. May, Deacon, etc. Absolute monsters at their trade.
I also agree about Knopler's voice tending toward whining, and being a distraction to a great product. But, if you think about, the same has been said many times about one of both of our favorites.... Rush. Geddy's shrill vocals turn a lot of fans off too.
Today's review also had me thinking about how strange sometime band dynamics can work. INXS honestly was Hutcheson. But giving this album and Kick a listen the last few days, I have noticed that the 5 unknowns who backed him were a really tight group of musicans who really made their sound so good. So good, that they are still considered one of the music leaders of their time. And behind AC-DC considered the greatest Aussie bands of all time. And I ask.... Can you even name one of them? In their case its like the sum is 2X greater than accumulation of all of their indiviudal parts. Yesterdays listen has me so fluxed, I can't get "Kiss the Dirt" out of my mind, and I have played it over and over about a dozen times.
Sorry for the rambling, but old rock music is such a interesting topic for me, and there are so few I can discuss it with, with any enjoyment.
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Heh -- let me stop you right there. The only reason I'm knowledgeable about certain bands is that I'm cursed with ridiculously picky tastes, which sadly limits the kind of music I enjoy. So I know a lot, but only about the narrow area of my interests. I envy @catfish1957 both for his broader tastes, and for his incredible knowledge about the much wider variety of music he enjoys.
It honestly does suck when most everyone else can enjoy a piece of music, and I just can't wait for it to end. Ugh.
I have a very broad base of music (with the exception of rap or opera). Consequently, I have no deep knowledge of a particular band or genre, much like other areas of my life. I have a feeling that the shuffle on my cd player might make you bang your head on the floor. :laugh: But I still enjoy your reviews.
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@Maj. Bill Martin
In the case of modern music, I can barely differentate between Rhiana and Beyonce.
That's because there really isn't much difference. :rolling:
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That's because there really isn't much difference. :rolling:
:thumbsup:
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Boston- Walk On (1994) ****
In a past review, I raved of how great, and grounbreaking that Boston's 1st and Self Titled Album was and how much its sound was a blast of majestic pomp and fury. I literally wore out 4 LP's and 6 8-Tracks in the late 1970's. That particular album got more air play for me than any by far. Many Many of us, had grand hopes that this band was going to be our Beatles for the '70's. I can not understate how loved that album was.... By me and many many others I knew, including many friends at the time. This was the "go to" party record. That album was the theme song for 1976 in my eyes.
So understand our shock and disgust when in 1978, "Don't Look Back" hit the record stores. It took 2 solid years to produce the follow-up, and that album was shadowed as putrid, wretched garbage. Seemed almost like a cruel joke at the time. In retrospect, this was almost a "Love Beach" moment, as it was later understood that Scholz and the band were at war with their record company, and though that they were contractually obligated to make a second album..... Nothing in that contract said it had to be good. We were angry, and rightfully so.
Then it took all the way to 1986, for Boston to make a 3rd album (3rd Stage), and unfortuantely it was only and mostly just slighty better than the second. Still a miserable hot mess. At this point, I think most everyone gave up on this band...... One and Done. Then by hap-instance in '94, I heard a new Boston tune on the raido that peaked my interest. Don't remember exactly which one, but thought I would give it a shot, and bought the CD. Pulling the liner notes from the CD, I was taken aback that the golden voice of Boston, Brad Delp was missing. I intiially thought this can't be good.
But to my surprise, and again this is just my taste and opinion, was that Tom Scholz finally decided to stop fully recycling and rehashing riffs and hooks, and put something more original on the disc. And surprisingly Delp's replacement was very competent, and actually and I am guessing purposely sounded a whole lot like Brad Delp. At least on those tunes he sang lead. Before proving any more glaringly nice comments, I still have to at least add a major disclaimer.... Like every other Boston Album, there are sappy shitty ballads that I detest. I like some ballads from some groups.... Heart is a good example. But when I want to hear Boston, I want to hear majestic peaking riffing, and wailing shrill guitars, puncutated by expansive keyboarding as the whole package blasting out of the speakers. Sappy shitty ballads to girl friends by some bands should be a jailable offense. So when you see the lower ranked numbered songs, you might have a good clue of my thinking.
Fun Fact: Not 100% sure, but Boston hasn't made an album in 10 years, and I am guessing their recording career is over. In those 37 years of being an active band, they only made 6 studio albums. Pretty unusual to have that overall longevity, and being that light on product.... and still staying relevant.
Track-
1. Surrender to Me- Heaviest feel on the CD, and a very very solid rocker. Some of it, could be construed as slightly metal. Nice harmoninzaton with scratching rthym guitar interlaced with Tom Scholz' patented wails. Note to reader: On my CD this is the second song. I have no idea why the sequences are different, but for the sake of keeping confusion minimal, I will take the order the YT video is providing on this review. Smoking strong Scholz solo at end. Another hallmark of the engineer, and his use of the tools at hand and electronic competency. 2
2. I Need Your Love- Fantastic riffing, some balladry, but done in a manner that beautifully contrasts the chaotic alternating sections of guitar wizardry. Some of the wail harkens back to "Long Time" but not enough of a knock off to be noticable. 3
3. Livin' For You- Sappy Crappy Ballad #1. A little redeeming wailing, but not enough to save this stinker. 5
4/5/6/7. . Walk On/Walking at Night/Get Organ-ized/Walk on (Some More)- Combined these four as the blend functionally as the same piece. Good meandering innovative work, but if does have one knock, it is probably the one song on the album that the band rehashed so much from their 1st album- You can hear, Smokin, Long Time, and even modified licks from Piece of Mind repackaged into the tune Still really good, but not where while it is innovate in some parts, it's redundant as hell in others. Getting Organ-ized is as advertised pun, but more rehash 4
8. What's Your Name... YT mislabels even within the video itself. This is my favorite song on the CD. It's a strange one about the hero falling in love with an invading alien. Though it is a bizarre themed number, it also contains the best solo work run/wail simutaneously outside the debut album. Song utilizes a lush full chordal assault that works so nicely as the verses cressendo in and out in a nice manner- 1
9- We Can Make It- See earlier balladry comments - 7
10. Magdalene- No thanks- 6
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cffQWHSpdFg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cffQWHSpdFg)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Boston- Walk On (1994)
In a previous review, I raved of how great, and grounbreaking that Boston's 1st and Self Titled Album was and how much its sound was a blast of majestic pomp and fury. I literally wore out 4 LP's and 6 8-Tracks in the late 1970's. That particular album got more air play for me than any by far. Many Many of us, had grand hopes that this band was going to be our Beatles for the '70's. I can not understate how loved that album was.... By me and many many others I knew, including many friends at the time. This was the "go to" party record. That album was the theme song for 1976 in my eyes.
So understand our shock and disgust when in 1978, "Don't Look Back" hit the record stores. It took 2 solid years to produce the follow-up, and that album was shadowed as putrid, wretched garbage. Seemed almost like a cruel joke at the time. In retrospect, this was almost a "Love Beach" moment, as it was later understood that Scholz and the band were at war with their record company, and though that they were contractually obligated to make a second album..... Nothing in that contract said it had to be good. We were angry, and rightfully so.
Then it took all the way to 1986, for Boston to make a 3rd album (3rd Stage), and unfortuantely it was only and mostly just slighty better than the second. Still a miserable hot mess. At this point, I think most everyone gave up on this band...... One and Done. Then by hap-instance in '94, I heard a new Boston tune on the raido that peaked my interest. Don't remember exactly which one, but thought I would give it a shot, and bought the CD. Pulling the liner notes from the CD, I was taken aback that the golden voice of Boston, Brad Delp was missing. I intiially thought this can't be good.
But to my surprise, and again this is just my taste and opinion, was that Tom Scholz finally decided to stop fully recycling and rehashing riffs and hooks, and put something more original on the disc. And surprisingly Delp's replacement was very competent, and actually and I am guessing purposely sounded a whole lot like Brad Delp. At least on those tunes he sang lead. Before proving any more glaringly nice comments, I still have to at least add a major disclaimer.... Like every other Boston Album, there are sappy shitty ballads that I detest. I like some ballads from some groups.... Heart is a good example. But when I want to hear Boston, I want to hear majestic peaking riffing, and wailing shrill guitars, puncutated by expansive keyboarding as the whole package blasting out of the speakers. Sappy shitty ballads to girl friends by some bands should be a jailable offense. So when you see the lower ranked numbered songs, you might have a good clue of my thinking.
Fun Fact: Not 100% sure, but Boston hasn't made an album in 10 years, and I am guessing their recording career is over. In those 37 years of being an active band, they only made 6 studio albums. Pretty unusual to have that overall longevity, and being that light on product.... and still staying relevant.
Track-
1. Surrender to Me- Heaviest feel on the CD, and a very very solid rocker. Some of it, could be construed as slightly metal. Nice harmoninzaton with scratching rthym guitar interlaced with Tom Scholz' patented wails. Note to reader: On my CD this is the second song. I have no idea why the sequences are different, but for the sake of keeping confusion minimal, I will take the order the YT video is providing on this review. Smoking strong Scholz solo at end. Another hallmark of the engineer, and his use of the tools at hand and electronic competency. 2
2. I Need Your Love- Fantastic riffing, some balladry, but done in a manner that beautifully contrasts the chaotic alternating sections of guitar wizardry. Some of the wail harkens back to "Long Time" but not enough of a knock off to be noticable. 3
3. Livin' For You- Sappy Crappy Ballad #1. A little redeeming wailing, but not enough to save this stinker. 5
4/5/6/7. . Walk On/Walking at Night/Get Organ-ized/Walk on (Some More)- Combined these four as the blend functionally as the same piece. Good meandering innovative work, but if does have one knock, it is probably the one song on the album that the band rehashed so much from their 1st album- You can hear, Smokin, Long Time, and even modified licks from Piece of Mind repackaged into the tune Still really good, but not where while it is innovate in some parts, it's redundant as hell in others. Getting Organ-ized is as advertised pun, but more rehash 4
8. What's Your Name... YT mislabels even within the video itself. This is my favorite song on the CD. It's a strange one about the hero falling in love with an invading alien. Though it is a bizarre themed number, it also contains the best solo work run/wail simutaneously outside the debut album. Song utilizes a lush full chordal assault that works so nicely as the verses cressendo in and out in a nice manner- 1
9- We Can Make It- See earlier balladry comments - 7
10. Magdalene- No thanks- 6
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cffQWHSpdFg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cffQWHSpdFg)
Honestly don't think I ever heard this one. Like you, I played their debut into oblivion, but "Don't Look Back" should have been sued for a fraudulent title. Basically just an attempt to mirror their first album stylistically, but with inferior material.
You're dead-on about the ballads on this one. Ugh. But you're also right about those other tracks. Boston always sounded to me like they were a Hammond away from really doing some great stuff. We got it on Foreplay, on that first album. Or at least, I'm pretty sure that's a Hammond even though it seems to lack a bit of that classic B-3/Leslie sound. Maybe that was Scholtz' preference given his tight control over the soundscape.
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Well, I'll make both of you mad more than likely...but imho the only decent song Boston did was Don't Look Back. :laugh:
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Well, I'll make both of you mad more than likely...but imho the only decent song Boston did was Don't Look Back. :laugh:
Birdie, no one should ever get mad. Musical tastes are 100% subjective. And I agree, that the song singularly "Don't Look Back" is quite good. But what was so disheartening that all the other songs were contrite and uninspired. A music lover can see and understand a little up and down in a band's discography, but never ever was there such a drop off of the cliff between the first two albums. That is just a poke in the eye of listeners.
And again, that is just me the subjective opinion of one listener.
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Honestly don't think I ever heard this one. Like you, I played their debut into oblivion, but "Don't Look Back" should have been sued for a fraudulent title. Basically just an attempt to mirror their first album stylistically, but with inferior material.
You're dead-on about the ballads on this one. Ugh. But you're also right about those other tracks. Boston always sounded to me like they were a Hammond away from really doing some great stuff. We got it on Foreplay, on that first album. Or at least, I'm pretty sure that's a Hammond even though it seems to lack a bit of that classic B-3/Leslie sound. Maybe that was Scholtz' preference given his tight control over the soundscape.
100% agree Major. I always suspected that early Boston, (at least the debut) had at least a smidgen of democracy in band content, dirction and songwriting. Of course with it's huge success the music industry was enamored with Scholz, his wizardry, and his MIT credentials. But, I think that press adulation also installed what I call a technological snobbery that infliltrated their music afterwards. And Scholz? I can see him making that Hammond a bonfire afterwards. Not enough bells and whistles.. :silly:
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Deep Purple- Burn (1974) ****
Several pages back I covered what was easily accepted by everybody as Deep Purples's very best album- Machine Head. #2 is a little tougher, but here is my choice- Burn from 1974. I know several out there, will disagree, but this is a fantastic album that has almost as interesting back story as the album itself. And some of my favorite Blackmore solo work as well.
This is easy one of the most controversial albums of mid '70's rock era. Everyone knew that Ritichie Blackmore had a monumental ego, but would this same guy get so anal rententive on band direction that he'd fire the vocalist and bassist that brought the ultimate of hard rock fame with Machine Head/Smoke on the Water just 2 albums prior. I personally have speculated that MH's followup... "Who do You Think We Are" was such a massive failure, and that Blackmore was so embarassed, that he went into in panic mode. Changes needed to be made, no matter how crazy.
Well yes, changes were made. and in 1974's Burn the all so familar the piviotal sound of Ian Gillian was replaced with a more blues sounding David Coverdale. And Glen Hughes from Trapeze replaced Roger Glover. From my POV, on a technical standpoint, though Coverdale's voice was thinner, and generally not as good as Gillian's, it also better suited the sound that I think Blackmore wanted. Which was to convey to cover a more bluesier, funkier angle to the band's sound. The Glover-Hughes conversion? My theory is that Ritchie wanted more bandwith on the vinyl. And with this and subsequent albums, the bass is much more subdued, almost in the background. Don't get me wrong, Hughes was plenty competent, and I am guessing he played along..... A stint in the band Deep Purple was about as big as it got in 1974.
So with Burn, again you get that more funky blues sound, that works very well. And, honestly, in full retrospect, Blackmore may have been a genius for doing this. Think about it...... Do you think he wanted to be 7 more albums that sounded like Machine Head? It also suprised me, that as consistently good as this album is, there isn't a single song that you will likely hear on the Classic Rock Stations. Maybe because this one was intitially panned so badly, and no big hits emerged. This gem lives in almost anonymity.
Fun (but bizarre) Fact: In 1970, Christopher Cross (Yes that Christopher Cross) was a touring guitarist with Deep Purple, and in fact subbed for Blackmore on one gig.
Side1-
----------
Burn- Title track comes out blasting..... The world has been introduced to Coverdale. Love how Blackmore goes into customer satisfaction mode right off the bat. All three pieces of the tandem of Blackmore, Lord, and Paice weave nicely into what may be the most familar song stylistically with prior Purple albums- 2
Might Just Take Your Life- Now the world is introduced to more of the New Purple. Coverdale's raspy blues alternate between that and a funky direction. You now get the idea that this isn't going to be like the older stuff. 4
Lay Down, Stay Down- First the negative. I know songs can be interpreted many ways, and I really want to give the band the benefit of the doubt, but writing a song that appears to about subdueing a woman for sex, is not the best topical stuff. This one is up there in Christine 16 territory, BUT.... As far as a tune, it is my favoritie on the whole album. It's a barrel house rocking chaotic classic, with great Paice fills, and contains some of the best melodic Blackmore soloing on the album. 1
Sail Away- Very nice, toned down slow roller that actually allows Hughes a little time in the limelight. 5
Side 2-
-----------------
You Fool No One- Very innovative, almost latin back beat. Blackmore picks at intro, then goes into a solid rocking/blues alternation. There is a lot put into the song, that I don't think the casual listener will pick up. Some of the best syncopative rock that DP ever did, at least in my opinion. Ever thought you would hear the term Jazz undertones and Deep Purple in the same breath? 3
What's Going On Here- Barrel House blues-er that though competent, not the best on the LP. For some reason Coveradale's voice is annoying. 7
Mistreated- More blues, almost to the point of the Delta feel. They did do this one very well, and if you are more into the hard core blues thing, I think you might really like it. This one is so overstated that if you put Paul Rodgers on vocals, you might swear that Free did this one. 6
"'A' 200"- This is a instrumental in terms of enjoyable has two distincts parts (1) Their experimentation with synths was silly, but (2) Hard to dock any points on this one with one the better Blackmore solos present too. 8
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KgdGd6cyp_E (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KgdGd6cyp_E)
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Well, I'll make both of you mad more than likely...but imho the only decent song Boston did was Don't Look Back. :laugh:
Totally subjective is right. Most of the stuff to which I listen would likely be disliked by everyone else on this thread. I may even prove that theory true with my next album review....
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Deep Purple- Burn (1974)
Several pages back I covered what was easily accepted by everybody as Deep Purples's very best album- Machine Head. #2 is a little tougher, but here is my choice- Burn from 1974. I know several out there, will disagree, but this is a fantastic album that has almost as interesting back story as the album itself. And some of my favorite Blackmore solo work as well.
This is easy one of the most controversial albums of mid '70's rock era. Everyone knew that Ritichie Blackmore had a monumental ego, but would this same guy get so anal rententive on band direction that he'd fire the vocalist and bassist that brought the ultimate of hard rock fame with Machine Head/Smoke on the Water just 2 albums prior. I personally have speculated that MH's followup... "Who do You Think We Are" was such a massive failure, and that Blackmore was so embarassed, that he went into in panic mode. Changes needed to be made, no matter how crazy.
Well yes, changes were made. and in 1974's Burn the all so familar the piviotal sound of Ian Gillian was replaced with a more blues sounding David Coverdale. And Glen Hughes from Trapeze replaced Roger Glover. From my POV, on a technical standpoint, though Coverdale's voice was thinner, and generally not as good as Gillian's, it also better suited the sound that I think Blackmore wanted. Which was to convey to cover a more bluesier, funkier angle to the band's sound. The Glover-Hughes conversion? My theory is that Ritchie wanted more bandwith on the vinyl. And with this and subsequent albums, the bass is much more subdued, almost in the background. Don't get me wrong, Hughes was plenty competent, and I am guessing he played along..... A stint in the band Deep Purple was about as big as it got in 1974.
So with Burn, again you get that more funky blues sound, that works very well. And, honestly, in full retrospect, Blackmore may have been a genius for doing this. Think about it...... Do you think he wanted to be 7 more albums that sounded like Machine Head? It also suprised me, that as consistently good as this album is, there isn't a single song that you will likely hear on the Classic Rock Stations. Maybe because this one was intitially panned so badly, and no big hits emerged. This gem lives in almost anonymity.
Fun (but bizarre) Fact: In 1970, Christopher Cross (Yes that Christopher Cross) was a touring guitarist with Deep Purple, and in fact subbed for Blackmore on one gig.
Side1-
----------
Burn- Title track comes out blasting..... The world has been introduced to Coverdale. Love how Blackmore goes into customer satisfaction mode right off the bat. All three pieces of the tandem of Blackmore, Lord, and Paice weave nicely into what may be the most familar song stylistically with prior Purple albums- 2
Might Just Take Your Life- Now the world is introduced to more of the New Purple. Coverdale's raspy blues alternate between that and a funky direction. You now get the idea that this isn't going to be like the older stuff. 4
Lay Down, Stay Down- First the negative. I know songs can be interpreted many ways, and I really want to give the band the benefit of the doubt, but writing a song that appears to about subdueing a woman for sex, is not the best topical stuff. This one is up there in Christine 16 territory, BUT.... As far as a tune, it is my favoritie on the whole album. It's a barrel house rocking chaotic classic, with great Paice fills, and contains some of the best melodic Blackmore soloing on the album. 1
Sail Away- Very nice, toned down slow roller that actually allows Hughes a little time in the limelight. 5
Side 2-
-----------------
You Fool No One- Very innovative, almost latin back beat. Blackmore picks at intro, then goes into a solid rocking/blues alternation. There is a lot put into the song, that I don't think the casual listener will pick up. Some of the best syncopative rock that DP ever did, at least in my opinion. Ever thought you would hear the term Jazz undertones and Deep Purple in the same breath? 3
What's Going On Here- Barrel House blues-er that though competent, not the best on the LP. For some reason Coveradale's voice is annoying. 7
Mistreated- More blues, almost to the point of the Delta feel. They did do this one very well, and if you are more into the hard core blues thing, I think you might really like it. This one is so overstated that if you put Paul Rodgers on vocals, you might swear that Free did this one. 6
"'A' 200"- This is a instrumental in terms of enjoyable has two distincts parts (1) Their experimentation with synths was silly, but (2) Hard to dock any points on this one with one the better Blackmore solos present too. 8
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KgdGd6cyp_E (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KgdGd6cyp_E)
This was a great album review, @catfish1957, because I think you really nailed why it is so different from the preceding albums. Like you, I prefer Gillan to Coverdale, and think that has a huge impact musically. Coverdale to me always sounds like the perfect hair band singer. He's got a really good voice, but lacks that incredible tone Gillan had. To me, Coverdale's bluesy voice just kind of blends into the mix, which is why I don't think blues singers generally mix as well with metal. Gillan had that "fifth instrument" quality that added more definition to the music.
And I really like what you said about the underrated Roger Glover on bass. Lay Down/Stay Down sounds like a great classic Purple tune, as does Burn with that instantly-recognizable riff. But neither really grabs me the way older Purple stuff did, and I could never quite figure out why because I'd never focused before on the absence of Glover until you mentioned it. That heavy, driving sound he typically produced just wasn't there. The title track on Fireball is a great contrast, for example (song starts after the Lord interview at about 1:40):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a1AC8Z3K84U
And I suspect you're right -- that is exactly how Blackmore wanted it because he was basically in the background for much of something like Fireball. So, in Burn, he pushed the vocals (other than on Mistreated), bass and even Lord more into the background, and produced some of his very best solos. It's definitely Blackmore's DP at this point. Because of all the changes from the prior albums, it was definitely the right album to pick for your second DP review.
Of the studio albums, I'd personally have this one at 4 behind Machinehead, In Rock, and Fireball, but that's probably the Gillan-fan in me talking. Anyway, great review.
I have to add that I absolutely love talking music with you guys.
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This was a great album review, @catfish1957, because I think you really nailed why it is so different from the preceding albums. Like you, I prefer Gillan to Coverdale, and think that has a huge impact musically. Coverdale to me always sounds like the perfect hair band singer. He's got a really good voice, but lacks that incredible tone Gillan had. To me, Coverdale's bluesy voice just kind of blends into the mix, which is why I don't think blues singers generally mix as well with metal. Gillan had that "fifth instrument" quality that added more definition to the music.
And I really like what you said about the underrated Roger Glover on bass. Lay Down/Stay Down sounds like a great classic Purple tune, as does Burn with that instantly-recognizable riff. But neither really grabs me the way older Purple stuff did, and I could never quite figure out why because I'd never focused before on the absence of Glover until you mentioned it. That heavy, driving sound he typically produced just wasn't there. The title track on Fireball is a great contrast, for example (song starts after the Lord interview at about 1:40):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a1AC8Z3K84U
And I suspect you're right -- that is exactly how Blackmore wanted it because he was basically in the background for much of something like Fireball. So, in Burn, he pushed the vocals (other than on Mistreated), bass and even Lord more into the background, and produced some of his very best solos. It's definitely Blackmore's DP at this point. Because of all the changes from the prior albums, it was definitely the right album to pick for your second DP review.
Of the studio albums, I'd personally have this one at 4 behind Machinehead, In Rock, and Fireball, but that's probably the Gillan-fan in me talking. Anyway, great review.
I have to add that I absolutely love talking music with you guys.
@Maj. Bill Martin
Thanks Major, and great observations I might add. In my case, I am a little predjudiced in my listening habits, where I sometimes admittedly I focus more on the lead guitar than other just as important parts of the musical puzzle. That is almost sadly a fault. And to that fault, maybe that is why I rank Burn, and its crazy but crisp Blackmore solo work so highly.
So much of the early Purple has sadly died in obscurity, with supporting cast of Paice, Glover, and Lord even more to a degree.
There is no telling how much great music DP may have made if Blackmore, hadn't been such a prima donna. I do think pretty much the industry had though he had lost his mind, once he got into his Rainbow era. He made some decent music obviously, but nothing like it was with Deep Purple.
I had not seen that Jon Lord interview, but an big argument could be made that as far as a rocker, he might be the GOAT, considering Emerson and Wakeman are classical prog guys, and pretty much on a different plain as far as comparisons. That video of them playing was incredible. Seeing them in the climes of a dance studio venue seemed almost surreal. I know it was the early 1970's but.....
Kind of like this, which in the same way has that level venue of bizzare....... And the small crowd was barely clapping... :thud:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k-WSbMW7BPc (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k-WSbMW7BPc)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- The Smitereens- 11 (1989) ***
I really haven't been too kind to the Alternate, Grunge era of rock so far, but that does not mean there weren't some gems that I enjoyed. Like this one from 1989. In my musical tastes, by about 1990, it was getting tougher and tougher to find something that actually made me want to go to the record shop to secure. This one had about half/half good/bad sound to it, so I bought.
There is really nothing ground breaking musically on this CD, and this band kind of went in and out of the spotlight pretty quickly. There really aren't any specific musical performances to write home about either. I really think what worked on "11" was several well crafted hooks that catch the listener, and draws them in. Those hooks that haunt your humming 2 hours later. But, after their '80's success, they sank into pretty sad and pathetic territory. This is not a joke, as here is their studio portfolio 1994-2009:
1994- A Date with the Smithereens
1999- God Save the Smithereens
2007- Meet the Smithereens
2007- Christmas With the Smithereens
2008- B Sides- The Beatles
2009- The Smithereens Play Tommy
Seems rather than holding a legit legacy, they decided to make jokes of themselves, but that still doesn't mean there wasn't some good music by this band in their prime. But back to the album..... I will try to put it in prespective, and still will rank these tunes, but there really isn't a lot to review, and if I might add...... This isn't one that should be overanalyzed, but is just a good mindless romp, if you want some good rock with a pop sheen.
Fun Fact: Madonna was actually hired to sing vocals on "A Girl Like You", but didn't show up. Also of note, there was one appearance by Belinda Carlisle on this album, who you might remember as the singer from the "Go-Go's"
Side 1-
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Girl Like You- The recognizable hit from the Album that many might remember. Nice syncopative links, and innovative almost "co-singing " of the song, that if done correctly is not really that easy to do. 1
Blues Before and After- Another solid rocking number 3
Blue Period- Not sure they are Picasso fans, and I see no lyrical connections there. But has an almost Strawberry Fields violin accompaniment Vibe, and other Beatle like elements that explain their future fixation on the Beatles. It's a pleasant soft turn. 4
Baby Be Good- Light rocking and slow paced pop song. 6
Room With a View- Alternatiish REM like fodder. Nope. 7
Side 2-
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Yesterday Girl- Hooked mindlessness that is fun as hell to listen to. Sounds like what the sons of the Monkees might write and play on a good day. '60's like solo did not go unnoticed either. 2
Cut Flowers- Awful light number. As good as Blue Period is, this on the flip side is just as bad. 10
William Wilson- Ode to the E.A. Poe story. Most alternative sounding tune on the LP. Works pretty well though 5
Maria Elena- Sometimes the hooks are so sappy, they are almost a joke. This one should have been left off. 9
Kiss Your Tears Away- More Filler. As well as the album started, it sure fizzled by the end of Side 2 8
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Muat-X8ZQE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Muat-X8ZQE)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Dream Theatre- Images and Words (1992). *** 1/2
Honestly, there isn't much music being made nowadays that is listenable. One of the few exceptions of the past years is Dream Theatre. They are unmistakenly the greatest latter day prog groups. This is an ensemble with tremendous talent, and a pentchant for bouts of complexity like their heros Rush and Yes. I'll go out on the limb and say this is the greatest rock band of post 2000 era.
Now don't get me wrong, and not wanting to sound repetitive, but though I have a much affinity toward the stuff from my era, there is no denying these guys made some very inspired music now for 15 studio albums and over 30 years. And IMO, this is by far the most talented band making music right now. There are no weak spots in this line up, which kind of mimics the immense talents.... again like Rush and Yes.
As with all bands, there are peaks and valleys, but if you really want their hard core prog super-era, look at any 2-3 albums in the 2005-2015 timeframe. Fantastic stuff. But........ I find their first album (I don't Count Dreams and Days), by far the best, and the most fascinating, because it has the fantastic air, of a band that is really trying to find their footing, and figure out what actual genre they were. This one hits all the facets.... Metal, Jazz, standard Rock, Prog..... Yeah its all there. Have never noticed @Maj. Bill Martin mentioning Dream Theatre, so I am looking forward to his thoughts. These are some incredible musicans, still making good music in a sea of (C)rap, Techno-pop, and Electronic Diva Drivel. And this overall quality of this one? Just about all of it is good.
Fun Fact: Bassist John Myung is the only member to remain a member of the group its entire history. (1985-2023)
Track-
1. Pull Me Under- Once going, and after first song, you may think you are listening to a Metallica clone. Yes, these guys have some metal tendencies, but one thing you will notice, is that Metallica never made anything this intricate and expansive as a mosaic of instrumentation. 4
2. Another Day- Very Queen sounding tune, which by design is about as tough of a task there is to accomplish. Great melodic and majestic lushness make this a masterpiece. Seldom does a ballad sounding tune rank so high in my book, but John Petrucci has some fine guitar work, and the interflowing sax just accenutates the feel of the song. 2
3. Take the Time- Another Masterpiece metal number that does have that Hetfield tinged guitar, but Metallica never came ever near this close to makingf this level of complexity, complete with numerous stylistic, time, and key changes. Later part of the song has an awesome almost improv Jazz touch to it. 3
4. Surrounded- Soft ballad that blends into some (repeat) ultra-complex phrasing. Maybe the most mainstream sounding song on this particular work -6
5. Metropolis Part 1: The Miracle and the Sleeper- On cue, the song starts in standard DT metal riff fare, but man soon are you ever treated to some of the most bombastic complex chaos ever. This is where exactly the band states that they are the face and the future of prog. Some of the bass runs are absolutely insane. There is almost an ELP feel to some of the instrumental stuff here. I can not overstate how much talent is jammed pack into 8 minutes of this prog standard classic. 1
6. Under a Glass Moon- After being exhausted from the prior work, you are treated another prog ultra-blaster that has some mid '70's Zappa like licks that also gives a slight homage and feel to '80's hair band stuff. But OTOH, no hair band had any level of talent as these guys either- 7
7. Wait For Sleep- More of the Metallica-ish crunch and phrasing, a good song, and when you are 8th place in an album this great, that is saying something- 8
8- Learning to Live- Incredibly innovative. The way the were able to play the sync phrasing while doing gradual acceleration of the overall music?... wow. Mike Portnoy, who is considered among the greats, plays well album wide, but some of his work here, is almost Peart like. 5
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K0najyrwX6c (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K0najyrwX6c)
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Dream Theater, never heard of them. Listened to the track higher up on the thread, sounded like a cross between Deep Purple and a metallic ELP. While I liked DP and ELP when I was in my 20s, I have transitioned into other music.
While I was not a Big Band era fan when I was young, I enjoy that music today, along with smooth jazz. Soft rock will always be one of my favorites, I was never really a hard rock fan.
:shrug:
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Dream Theater, never heard of them. Listened to the track higher up on the thread, sounded like a cross between Deep Purple and a metallic ELP. While I liked DP and ELP when I was in my 20s, I have transitioned into other music.
While I was not a Big Band era fan when I was young, I enjoy that music today, along with smooth jazz. Soft rock will always be one of my favorites, I was never really a hard rock fan.
:shrug:
@jafo2010
A cross between a Deep Purple and ELP is a pretty good description. I might replace Deep Purple with Metallica, and add Rush if you listen to their work say 10 years later. And as far as Big Band era stuff? My background in college band, etc. give me a rich love and appreciation. Glen Miller's World War 2 timeframe works are great.
And your thoughts around how music tastes change are spot on. But as far as music, I can find redeeming value and enjoyment in every kind of music, with the exception of Rap. In any given day, you might find me listening to Beethoven, Abba, Johnny Cash, etc. etc. My hardcore listening focus though, like you has changed. I as a child was into the Beatles, and their clones, which morphed into hard rock, like Zeppelin and Sabbath, which then in turn blended into a mix of singer songwriter types, and Prog.
And this is what makes music so special..... Not only does every person have a different taste iand preference n music, but that taste changes with age.
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@catfish1957 - glad you did this one.
I've tried a few times to get into them, but can't remember the particular songs so I'll give this one a shot.
What I do think is interesting is how @jafo2010 described them as a cross between Deep Purple and a metallic ELP, which is exactly what I hear. To me, there seems to be a...coldness about their sound. Post-1970 King Crimson had some very angular, metallic/industrial sounding stuff that struck me the same way, and is the stuff I generally don't like if theirs.
But, that's why I'm really glad you picked out a recommended album, and I'll definitely give it a lesson. I have to step in on an emergency basis for somebody to support a trial that begins on Monday, so it may be a bit until I can get to this one. But I will definitely give it a listen.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Mike Oldfield- Tubular Bells (1973). ** 1/2
Today's review is either going to bring back vivid memories of the age, or will be fully obscure. It's greatest claim to fame is some of its work is included as soundtrack to the movie Exorcist in the day. That movie is among the top in its intended class, and what this album added just amplified the "scare factor" of that piece of cinema. But there is much much more to this classic than puking little girls with spinning heads.
Album itself is broken into what two easy parts..... Opus 1 and Part 2, corresponding with each side of the album. A particular genre can not be added like a label. Mike Oldfield basically created an almost classical experiment and a one man show of instrumental prowess and production mixing, tht really hadn't been seen to this point. And be forewarned, if you are into vocals in your musical tastes, there are none here. This is just ciricuitous mind bending instrumental orchestations that took a massive amount of thought into compostion, and piecing the structures into something that was and still is highly innovative.
As far a structurinig your listening experience, I see Tubular Bells in 2 ways just as there are 2 sides, Side 1 being, the Exorcist, and Experimental Section, while 2 is almost proto-prog in how it incorporates a lot of the strange and tempermental changing of meter in style. Almost in random fashion What can most not be lost in this review is that Oldfield via the miracle of dubbing and overdubbing, composes and performs 92-95% of the content on the album. It was quite a technological marvel at the time, and would have taken massive amounts of time, and precison handling to pull off with this much clarity and quality. I reallly listen and enjoy this LP, more like one of my classical albums than my rock ones.
Still, and I know this might be a point of contention to some , is the fact, that TB is a one hit wonder, and shot in the dark. I don't know much about why he didn't continue to have prominence in the music industry, even as just as a technical advisor alone That would have seemed like a lifetime gig, But I still have to confess this 50 year old work, holds up very well in the test of time. my. Oh, and BTW.... Headphones need to be a prerequiste for getting the full listening experience. And if you are time limited, stick with Side 1.
Fun Fact: Incredibly Mike Oldfield was 19 years old when this album was released.
Side 1- Opus 1- The first 2/3 of the Opus are assigned as a guide to the eery and creepy accompaniment to the movie The Exorcist. Oldfield and his tiny supporting cast shine in their compostion. This thing is all over the map, and abruptly startles the listener even at a drop of a hat. Outside ELP, there weren't many into the classical compostion mode, and this is some of the best at the time. Amazing how Oldfield flips the swith, at will between airy, foreboding, majestic, etc. Very powerful and talented piece of work. The last 1/3 of the Opus (About 17:00), is a mind blowing almost clinician like exercise on explaining instrumentation and compostion. Oldfield powerfully starts with a bass line and sub-melodic line, and adds instruments in, cressendos them, and then either stops are relegates them in the background. This part is a work of art. I love how it is narrated as the instrumential weaving begins.
Side 2- Part 2- This is what I call the UK traditional prog side. No, not traditional like Tull, this one like its predecessor on Side 1 is all over the map. Starts with a near symphonic string fest, that lasts for half the movement. Second movement delves into some Klingon-ish growling and howling that harkens in an almost Zappa-Magical Mystery Tour bizarre like mix that might sound a bit like Genesis on a crazy day. I haven't listened to this side probably since I was a teenager, and can honestly say that I missed the boat. Very enjoyable. 3rd and also movement(ish), does some beautiful classical guitar and keyboard mixing, into uhhhh.... Popeye The Sailor Man? What a long strange trip this has been.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bv_4sZCLlr0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bv_4sZCLlr0)
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I had no idea Oldfield was only 19!
Although I generally prefer a full complement of live musicians, I make an exception for this album. It is so well done and forward looking.
Not to mention that the Exorcist piece, even to this day, gives me the shivers. It was the perfect choice for the movie.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Nazareth- Hair of the Dog (1975) *** 1/2
"Now Yo messin' wit a ........"
There are certain albums and songs that just seem to define the times. Blaring out of the speakers at least in my coming of age period there was Toys in the Attic, and this particular album that used really clever word play with the song's chorus (Hair (Heir) of the Dog) and the axiom of a hangover cure..... All a culmination of that clever word play and catchy riffs that are instantly recognizable.
Nazareth was very solid Scottish band that made some really good albums in the mid to late 1970's. Nothing I'd personally put in the 5 Star category, but sure damned good enough that I had 4 Nazareth albums in my personal collection during those years, You could count on this band to give a good effort, and provide 3 songs to add to your personal compliation recording tapes.
One thing I did hate about Nazareth was their tendency to add ballads that I absolutley hated. Sadly, these actually became their biggest hits, so it encouraged more of that. More on that later.
Again, I feel this is the best sample to cover with this band, with "Hair", but "Loud and Proud" (1973) is a great runner-up, if you are inclined to look further into this band's inventory.
Fun Fact: This was the first self produced album in their catalog.... Manny Charlton. Charlton later went on to produce some of the more well known works from Guns and Roses. And in fact if you listen close enough to the song, Rose in the Heather on this album, it almost comes across as a GNR sounding song.
The 3 prior highly successful albums were produced by Deep Purple Bassist Roger Glover.
Side 1-
---------------
Hair of the Dog- Nazareth's signature song, and still a mainstay of Classic Rock Stations. If you are over 55, I'll bet you remember this on the radio. Again, as stated earlier. incredible hard rocking, with catchy riffing, a good thumping bass line, and all around fun partying song. Where's the Keg, Man. 1
Miss Misery- Hard rocking bluezzzzz. How Dan McCafferty was able to growl out these tunes, and maintain even a speaking voice was a challenge. Simple blues phrasing on this one works nicely, and works into the album nicely. Nothing complex at all, but it works. 5
Love Hurts- Now shoot me. I despised this POS, as it clogged the airwaves in 1975/76. This cover of a cover sang in an off key scrowl just basically sucked. I realize millions out there disagreed, but I don't care.... i thought it and other sappy Nazareth ballads were a rock abomination 8
Changin' Times- More rocking blues.... Nothing great musically, and its amazing that on scale, Nazareth's music sheets were pretty simple along melodic lines. OTOH, they could jam when the song dictated. Not on this one though. 6
Side 2-
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Beggar's Day- Nice number that has a Yardbirds/Creme feel to it. The feel is there, and I like it, but there is no Beck, Clapton, Page wizardry though. Some nice tier 2 solo-ing though 4
Rose in the Heather- I guess this is some kind of an instrumental ballad that actually is very good. I love when band incorporate mellotron in their work. The instrument is not credited or listed in the liner notes. But I'd bet 100 bucks it's there. 3
Whiskey Drinkin' Woman- Southern shaded bluesy one, that sounds like identical to what Joe Walsh would do in the same era. As far as Nazareth, I guess Life's Been Good. Slide Guitar and all.......... 7
Please Don't Judas Me- This is the real sleeper on the album, that has gone kind of under the radar through the years. Very strange and lucid musical mosaic that uses the whole tool box. Song start slow and dark, but works into some of the most beautiful melodic work that they ever did. I liken it to a slow march toward some melodic back echo flowering conclusion that seems almost Pink Floyd like. Nicely done to close a good album. 2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tRqYm713T28 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tRqYm713T28)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Cream- Disreali Gears (1967) ****
Tonight I want to cover what is my favorite blues album of all time- Disraeli Gears by Creme. This particular historic album formulated what a lot of what a lot of and how 1970's Rock and Roll sounded. Many contend that this was the birth of hard rock, and this one particularly put Clapton up there in diety status. All three band members in the late 1960's were considered among the best of their craft. In fact I will go on record that Ginger Baker was the first superstar drummer. No one at the time was this much of an animal on percussion. And what gives any Cream album that magical feel is the harmonizing between Clapton and Bruce.
When you think of all the bands in the 1970's who had those strong blues tendencies, you know that they had to give homage to this Band. And this band? Their life was pretty short, with only 4 studio albums 1966-1969. All are really good, and each has cuts that have had modern air play. Clapton of course went on to superstardom, while band mates though had some success, never got to the same level of what they achieved with Creme.
This particular LP is especially my choice because it has maybe the most inclusive mix of a rock/blues mix. Clapton had the incredibly great ability to conduct epic solos ... be it on blues, rock, or psychedelia mode. If you have never heard this album, I am truly jealous of you getting to hear it for the first time. I think you will shocked that this was made in 1967. so ahead of it's time. One thing is for sure, rock music would sound much different today, if Creme and the Yard Birds had not existed.
And as a suggestion.... If there are time constaints, you pretty much will cover the greatness of this album with Side 1, and the first song of Side 2.
Fun Fact: Album actually was postponed about 6 months due to the Label insisting that the album have a Psychadelic Cover.
Side 1-
--------------
Strange Brew- One of best known song from the LP, and highlights trademark Clapton bluezzzzz grinding. that is all so familar with its intricately added melodic lines. Like I mentioned earlier, the vocal blending harmony of Clapton and Bruce has that epic familairity that few others have been able to replicate since. 3
Sunshine of Your Love- Bad ass, is a pretty decent and simple descriptive term for this riff that proabably every band afterwards learned and played in their early gigs. This is 1967.... This is hard rock. Before Led Zeppelin, Before Deep Purple, Before Black Sabbath. These are the roots to all that came afterwards- 1
World of Pain- Mid 1960-ish fare that the band for some reason wanted to stylistically revive. Some of the song sounds similar to Strange Brew, but still good solid rocker for the day. 5
Dance the Night Away- Song has kind of a California vibe, delving into a some Clapton our Byrding the Byrds in some ways. McGuinn never played this fast or crisply. Insane drum work too. 4
Blue Conditon- Slow bluesier, song purposley off key with a rural English twang. Quaint and purposeful, in the grand design of the LP. Not ever song be top tier though. 10
Side 2-
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Tales of Brave Ulysses- Hard Rock is Born Part II- Creme starts with an epically creepy and foreboding narrative in the form a mythological thriller. Band clicks on every cylinder, I mean every one. .... This is also Bruce's most recognizable vocals, and they just flow and ebb perfectly with Clapton's absolutely seering ax. 2
SWLABR (She Was Like a Bearded Rainbow)- MOR rocking/blues- Would be a classic for another band. But not Creme. 8
We're Going Wrong- Song itself is somewhat weak, but Baker's innovative continous almost fill-fest is worth the listen. 6
Outside Woman Blues- More great Baker drumming while Clapton uses singing styling that was a lot more indicative of his later solo work- 7
Take It Back- Maybe the most tradional blues kind of number on the album, harmonica and all. Much better picks on the album than this- 9
Mother's Lament- Remember the ridiculousness of Benny the Bouncer on ELP's BSS? This is even worse.- 11
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YH7Z23xtmfg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YH7Z23xtmfg)
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Great review of Disraeli Gears @catfish1957 . You hit me where I live. :laugh: Aside from being a fan of Cream during their short life...I am a huge Clapton fan. All of his different incarnations. I can't even say how many times I've seen him. Sadly, I never got to see Cream live.
One of the things that amazes me is how Ginger played so smoking hot on such a basic drum kit (of course, all the drummers of that era did). Imagine what he could have done with a set like Peart's, lol.
To me, they were one of the best groups that bridged the gap between the softer sounds of the early 60's and what became harder rock.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Nine Inch Nails- The Downward Spiral (1994). ****
I know today's selection is going to roll some eyeballs. I understand that NIN is not everyone's level of enjoyment, and I have often said that this is maybe one of the most misunderstood, under-understood acts in history. I fully recognize that all of their work sounds like sountracks to psycho-thriller movies. They incorporate the bizarre more than anyone else in rock history by far. The Patron Saint of Industrial/Rock-Metal does if listened to in any detail, have an incredible amount of talent. And un-paralled at least during this era. No one during the time had the production values of Nine Inch Nails.
Like everyone else in the world, I was introduced to this band, by the "Closer" video being ran on MTV. (Added below) It truly has some graphic and disturbing imagery ever made in modern music. Think Alice Cooper on 'roids. His stuff is truly mind boggling innovative, and yes again disturbing. If I was born in 1977 instead of 1957, I am guessing this would have been my favorite band. NIN checks all the boxes.... Musical virtuosity, Lyrical genius, beyond innovating, Shocking...and best of all? To the hook laden rubes out there...... NIN doesn't give a shit what you think. But be aware, if dark, despair, and shock are not in your musical lexicon..... I'd skip.
NIN is basically the brain trust Trent Reznor, and his side kick Atticus Ross, who basically carry the heavy lifting, while employing others while on tour. And as far as picking the proper NIN CD to cover???? I narrowed it down to 2. First I highy considered their debut "Pretty Hate Machine" (1989). Which while is a tad more toned down on the anger, has just that touch of rawness, that shows the listener that this is a brilliant and evolving act. Overall, the feel might be better, but I had to go with the more familar and polished "The Downward Spiral", and I will tell you that from the narrating the dangeously flawed human psyche, I don't think there has ever been better named one. One other thing I would like to cover is that I think NIN made from an artistic perspective the greatest music video ever made.... The Perfect Drug, which I have also added at the bottom.
Fun Fact: Want an idea how influential NIN became? Johnny Cash did a cover of a NIN song as pretty much his Swan Song. (Hurt)
Track
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1. Mr. Self Destruct- Ouch, the CD starts with a torture event, and blares into industrial blasthood focusing on mental madness. You also can get a sense that Reznor has upped his game on production ability. It is so fatiguing to listening to NIN, as not only do you have to focus on the music, you have become cognizant of the back-speak, and background sounds addition. I liken it to having to try to understand a Pollock painting. On the eyewashed surface it appears to be random splotches of paint, but if you can inward reflect, there is a lot more entailed, and in some cases it again is pretty disturbingly but in spectacular decimation. 8
2. Piggy- Reznor slows down the pace into an incredibly repeitive phrasal exercise again focusing on mental dispair, and placed hate. 9
3. Heresy- More standard hard edged industrial that has a level of relgious anger I have never seen in any other rock songs. 3 Hail Mary's required after listening. 6
4. March of the Pigs- NIN Chaos at its best. All hell breaks lose, and in such innovative manner, "doesn't it make it feel better" hits you like a random slap. Reznor maybe catches the aspects of mental collapse as well as he can on this short but strange piece. 4
5. Closer- The most well known and recognized song in the entire NIN catalog. Speared also maybe one of the most disturbing mainstream music videos ever made too (below). What I find so amusing, is that Reznor absolutely despised what Closer had become, and how it was being understood. He didn't have a hook bone in his body, but if you want one, this is about as close at it will get. 1
6. The Ruiner- Kind of hard to put a finger, but this is quite a stylistic change from most of the band's other work. It works in movements, and sub-sected almost random levels of music. Overall, it works.... NIN always throws curve balls. 7
7. The Becoming- On some levels, at least on the sound level, the most disturbing work ever by NIN- Back-sounds of masses sounding like they are they are in the process of death-throws is non for the faint of heart. Incredibly innovative though some of acoustical touches that abruptly tune into industrial-techno hell. Intense. I have never taken hallucogens but from a musical perspecitve, this is what I think it would be like. 5
8. I Do Not Want This- By this time, you are really wondering whether Reznor is the persona , or is Reznor the entertainer. It does take a strange sort to formulate this conglomerate of lyrically despair, and self loathing, along with a musical soundtrack that sounds. like it bubbled up from the depths of hell. By track 8, if you are like me, you are seeing musical comprehension fatigue unlike any other. Of course that fatigue may be influencing my ranking too. I am numb at this point. 14
9. Big Man With a Gun- Always thought though this had an anti- 2A slant, it after researching was Reznor's attack on Gangsta Rap. Good for him. Kind of inane, but of course he meant it that way. From the album listen-o-meter? Down at the bottom though. 13
10. A Warm Place- Just when you thought this album couldn't get any stranger, NIN puts together an absolutley etheral, new age sounding instrumental that is beautiful. The lushness and channel filling almost synth reverb aura is a work of art. An absolute testament of their versatiliy and talent. 3
11. Eraser- Again, pegging out the strangeness, but this work of syncopative complexity and a system of random crazy guitar strums, just gives another macabe vibe that we see over and over. Layered off-key orchestrazitons just add to the mayhem. Part 2, shifts into max industrial scream, in violent 2 word angry phrases. Insanity put to music. 12
12. Reptile- Toned down industrial, and maybe Reznor's lyrical point that the imaginery protaganist has shifted his dispair toward a love that now is in the line of site as a target. 10
13. Downward Spiral- Disturbing account of suicide, complete with the sounds of swirling flies, and a prelude into Hurt. Like I said much earlier, this music not for the faint of heart. 11
14. Hurt- So eery, so chilling, and maybe the most powerful song around despair ever made. When you listen to the contrasts of some of the earlier industrial screaming earlier ,you are perplexed that the same person could create such glaringly "scary" vocals. When I first heard this album nearly 20 years ago, my first impression of Reznor was that he was one sick F___. I also thought someone with this level of darkness wouldn't live 10 years. Well I was wrong, and I guess the line of artist and man was not as blurred as I thought. 2
Note: NSF and parental warning aspects are obviously in effect with any NIN offering.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=htofkr4Fh3Q (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=htofkr4Fh3Q)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nv3M5OvCJuQ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nv3M5OvCJuQ)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dn3j6-yQKWQ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dn3j6-yQKWQ)
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Great review of Disraeli Gears @catfish1957 . You hit me where I live. :laugh: Aside from being a fan of Cream during their short life...I am a huge Clapton fan. All of his different incarnations. I can't even say how many times I've seen him. Sadly, I never got to see Cream live.
One of the things that amazes me is how Ginger played so smoking hot on such a basic drum kit (of course, all the drummers of that era did). Imagine what he could have done with a set like Peart's, lol.
To me, they were one of the best groups that bridged the gap between the softer sounds of the early 60's and what became harder rock.
I am in about 5 levels of envy, hearing you being able to see Clapton live. He never made appearance as far as I know near me. Maybe Houston, but later on when I wasn't making many concerts.
I did see some pretty great Texas blues guys in my time though. I saw Johnny Winter in a Blues Review Revival back in the early '80's. Of course, Billy Gibbons in the late '70's at a couple of Topp concerts.
And oh yes, I did see SRV before he made it big. Saw him at a bar on 6th Street in probably about '80. had never heard of him, or knew who he was. Then later a friend let me listen to Texas Flood, and I yelled.... "I saw that Guy, hell he played like Hendrix"
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Classic Rock Album of the Day... The Eagles - The Long Run (1979) ***
One of most vivid memories of the day I acquired this album late in 1979, is the fact I splurged that day and bought both this one and Zeppelin's In Through the Out Door. Funny how tastes changed, because at least a few years, I'd would prefer this one on any day. Now, no comparison. Not a negative about this one, because on a whole this was (is) the finest album the Eagles ever made. Hotel California had a few better songs, but as far as consistency, this was the one for me.
Yes, 1976-1979, with the tandem of Hotel California and the Long Run, was from my POV , the Eagles at their best. Sure those handful of albums made in the early to mid '70's were huge sellers, and massive hits. I am almost sure everyone I knew at the time had their "Greatest Hits" collection. It made for good truck 8-track fodder, because they were good nice country-rock tunes, and the chicks digged it. But when you look at each of those 4 albums out there on their own merit as a whole, they were "filler-fests".
Well what changed? That change came in the form of Joe Walsh, from James Gang and solo fame, who became "the missing piece" that gave the band that edge to be a great band. His antics and additons were great add to counter the self-absorption and whne factor of Frey, Henley, and the lesser members of the band. The purist decried this era, but there is no doubt it broadened their audience, and no one can dispute that some of the '70's most enlightened harmonization came from their extensive catalog.
And of course, the Eagles have put a padlock on their stuff, so no full album, and links require you to manuever through YT/Vevo Hell.....
Fun Fact 1: Did not remember, but Bob Seger actually was given songwriting credit on Heartache Tonight, and also has a backup singing role too.
Fun Fact 2: Band member Don Henley is my 3rd Cousin. That's about the only relation. Our political POVs are direct opposites.
Side 1-
--------------
The Long Run- Title Track though was a bg radio hit, and it is annoying to me. 8
I Can't Tell You Why- Slow rolling ballad that was sung by maybe the worst singer in the band. Schmitt sounds like a whiny bitch. And you all know what my general opinion of ballards are. And this was a freakin' hit too... Geez 9
In the City- Then it gets great..... Walsh's masterful contribution that power chords its way through a fantastic though hooky pattern of standars chord progressions , with some extremely weighty and classic Walsh slide guitar work. Lyrical angles work nicely too. Way to Go Joe....... 1
The Disco Strangler- Among the strange on the LP, with a very odd meter and sync'ed beat... And pretty much like nothing the Eagles had done before. I love the theme too, and used to love playing it loud disco loving neighbors in the dorm. Disco? Wasn't really a fan. :cool: 4
King of Hollywood- Another Ballad, though more competent. Actually some good song based story telling of "the casting couch" way before it was widely known. Frey also does some decent soloing during the piece. 6
Side 2-
--------------
Heartache Tonight- Another massive hit, and a woo hoo clap along rompus. Found it so strange that what I thought were among the weakest songs on the album, were also their biggest hits. Shows how screwed up my tastes were. This one is the closest one, that harkens back to their early '70's feel. Except that slide guitar, which is about it's only high point. 7
Those Shoes- Now the album though more obsure on the familarity front, gets really interesting- Shoes uses a blues based, heavy percussive with a buzz/distort guitar, that works nicely. Always thought this was a song that would have came out better if Frey had sang it instead of Henley, but ..... they didn't ask me. 5
Teenage Jail- Sinister-blues. Yeah, that is how it comes across. Such a great song, and one that is criminally ignored in their discography. Not sure who is doing which, but the solo work on both keyboards and guitar (Walsh and Frey) , it is among at least IMO, some of the best I've heard. 2
The Greeks Don't Want No Freaks.- Okay, okay, okay, I am not immune to a well formulated hooked song, at least if gets me really nodding. Song almost has that '60's Monster Mash organ thing going. Fraternity Chorus at the end? Yeah our era did have Animal House. Woot Woot, get out the togas. 3
The Sad Cafe- Another stinking pointless ballad. Too bad. This album should have ended one song earlier. Henley comes across annoyingly whiney. Sad Cafe? How about a Sad Ending. 10
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=skC2GToR1uY&list=PLBoIBJQNyrwvh355p9Sf4yHorrXh5F67o (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=skC2GToR1uY&list=PLBoIBJQNyrwvh355p9Sf4yHorrXh5F67o)
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Shit, I am so far behind....
Okay, I've got some listening/catching up to do. I'm going to skip the Eagles because for me, they are Yacht rock that I cannot handle, but I'll give the others a go. Then I'm going to do a review. Probably won't get up until the end of the week, though.
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Shit, I am so far behind....
Okay, I've got some listening/catching up to do. I'm going to skip the Eagles because for me, they are Yacht rock that I cannot handle, but I'll give the others a go. Then I'm going to do a review. Probably won't get up until the end of the week, though.
I'll have to admit that that was the first time I have carefully, and in entirety listened to to this NIN CD. Did not realize how much talent Reznor had, and very powerful far as in poetic sensibilities, and how he was able to incorporate these words into such levels of emotion. His ability as I described as soundtracks for psychological thriller with an industrial bend rally gives them a unique sound. Very technically astute, and mind blowing production value.
Problem is ......listening to them is so draining. An hour of this, I feel like I have been though the mental wringer of sensory overload.
This is a tough listen, more in the realm of appreciating the art, more than the music.
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I am in about 5 levels of envy, hearing you being able to see Clapton live. He never made appearance as far as I know near me. Maybe Houston, but later on when I wasn't making many concerts.
I did see some pretty great Texas blues guys in my time though. I saw Johnny Winter in a Blues Review Revival back in the early '80's. Of course, Billy Gibbons in the late '70's at a couple of Topp concerts.
And oh yes, I did see SRV before he made it big. Saw him at a bar on 6th Street in probably about '80. had never heard of him, or knew who he was. Then later a friend let me listen to Texas Flood, and I yelled.... "I saw that Guy, hell he played like Hendrix"
Well, I'm jealous you got to see SRV! I did get to see Johnny and ZZ Top a couple of times.
I'll tell a story that you will dismiss as "berdie is a liar or a kook" but this happened.
The last Clapton concert I went to I ended up with really, really crappy tickets. A friend of mine and myself always attended his concerts. Her fav song was Bell Bottom Blues. Mine (more or less) If I Could Change The World. He never plays these songs. So, I emailed his website to try to beg for a seat up grade. Heck..it was worth a try, I really brown nosed. But I also said I understood if that wasn't possible, would he consider these songs.
Long story short, we paid a boat load of money for seat upgrades. More than I have ever paid for a concert ticket. But all of a sudden, in the middle of the set...what did he sing? BBB I thought what a nice coincidence. But he followed with IICCTW. I nearly fell out of my seat.
Could have been coincidence? I'll never know.
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I love me some Eagles. Seen them several times as well. And Henly solo. He actually puts on a good concert.
Great review. Their progression as a band was really interesting. The harmony is great.
I will agree that Joe upped their level. But I may have to disagree that Timothy B is a bad vocalist. It's pretty impressive that a guy can maintain that level. No, he's not Meissner.
I really think that Frey and Henly maintained the consistency of their sound.
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I love me some Eagles. Seen them several times as well. And Henly solo. He actually puts on a good concert.
Great review. Their progression as a band was really interesting. The harmony is great.
I will agree that Joe upped their level. But I may have to disagree that Timothy B is a bad vocalist. It's pretty impressive that a guy can maintain that level. No, he's not Meissner.
I really think that Frey and Henly maintained the consistency of their sound.
I might have been a tad tough on Schmidt, but I'll admit he is a good singer in band full of really good ones. And that differential shows in the tunes. Was really sad when Glen Frey died. He and Henley had a fantastic collaboration, that made them along with CCR, as maybe the most popular U.S. rock bands in history.
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/0/00/Eagles_-_Their_Greatest_Hits_%281971-1975%29.jpg/220px-Eagles_-_Their_Greatest_Hits_%281971-1975%29.jpg)
This from 1976 sold 36M copies... that's not a typo.... 36M
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Neil Young and Crazy Horse- Rust Never Sleeps. (1979) **** 1/2
There was a period in my listening history that NY dominated my turntable. At one point in the early '80's I owned every one of his LP's. And that was not an easy or very ecomomical task. The man himself is a legend. He was particpant and founding member of Buffalo Springfield in 1966, a member of Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young in 1969-1970, massively successfull solo career afterwards. In fact his fame and influence got to the point of enlisting the entire band Pearl Jam as his back up band on one CD in 1995. That nicknmaed him to newer generations as the Godfather of Grunge. Young has appeared on about 50 studio albums throughout his career, and has pretty much seen it all.
I found myself playing constantly compliations of these albums, and in retrospect, the downer notion of his music in general had a profound, almost subliminal mental funk inducing feeling on me. So at a point in the late '80's I came to epiphany that this stuff was depression inducing, as his whining, though poetic, and rocking message was a joy to listen too. From the Darkness of "Tonights the Night" and to the fine touches and songwriting genius of "Rust Never Sleeps", there was a lot ground covered, by who many who consider the greatest in the genre of "Singer-Song Writer". And I will admit that today's choice- Rust Never Sleeps is the exact reason why I went out and purchased a 12-string guitar. When played correctly, it has a magical sound that fits the S-S style like a glove.
Rust Never Sleeps is a beautifully constructed piece where he and Crazy Horse configure each side of the album almost as mirrors. The acoustucal vs. the fuzz distorted Les Paul. And the result is what I feel NY's best work. It is practically "filler free".
Back in college, we spent hours trying to interpret and psycho-analyze some of the messaging on this album. As an oldster now, I think most of it was just nonsensical gibberish to get college kids to just do that kind of shit. He's now just a burned out hippy left wing advocate more than the poet laureate I thought he was, back in the day. Maybe I have just become a grumpy old man myself.
Fun Fact: In his 60+ year career, this is the only album that spurred a direct near-same titled movie/album combo- Live Rust. Which was his only live album that met Platinum status.
Sorry, but again YT as put the squelch on providing an entire album for uninterrupted review.
Side 1-
------------
(acoustical side)
My My, Hey Hey (Out of the Blue)- The first part of the bookend, and the acoustic ode to the slips and hazards of fame. 3 weeks after I got this album I went and bought my 12-string, and was so proud and ecstatic that I was able to reproduce the song. Amazing, how Young was able to metaphorically and almost propetically add Johnny Rotten to the hazards of rock and roll. Even if he really hadn't reached that status yet. This song also includes some of NY's most soulful, blending harmonica. This song is simple, and powerful. And how he includes what sounds to be a sparse and live crowd gives it just that additonal level of shiver. 2
Thrasher- Beautiful acoustical number that got the biggest level of analysis from my college interpretatipn clache. I think we finally came to the conclusion it was a response to the onslaught of technology. And wow, is that theme more timely now than even now. OTOH, some thought it was imagery of death. But even within the realms of nonsensical his poetry is a mindbender. 3
Ride my Llama- Outside an acid trip, this (again nonsensical) piece was someone betting Young he could find or write something in the song to rhyme write with Llama (Texarkana) . Still this Young very nicley blends some well placed picking with nice chordal moves. 7
Pocahontas- So nicely written, sang and played. Like I mentioned, there is basically no filler on this LP. This one maybe has the least of the "interpretive guess work". Hmmmm.. wonder what the the woke crowd thinks of him wanting to give Pocahontas a 1000 pelts as a tracker to sleep with her. Where's the outrage. Maybe that is why I am docking this song somewhat. :silly: 8
Sail Away- Weakest cut on the LP. Not exactly filler, but this sounds like a "B" side from the previous album "Comes a Time", which was about 3 notches of quality below. And man did I hate Nicollete Larson's voice. If there wasn't some decent harmonica in this it would be filler. 9
Side 2-
----------
(Electric Side)
Powderfinger- Crazy Horse joins in, and they crank up the amps in fine fashion. Nice storytelling in this one. Captured what I felt was a powerfull account of a young man who is the first to find a gun boat about to attack. And dies in that attack. Interesting fact is that this song was supposed to be sent to Lynyrd Skynrd and used on the next album, before their sad fateful crash. 6
Welfare Mothers- For someone to be so liberal , this one always cracked me up. This song is basically a diss and parody of the subject. Seems Young got no flack for prior positions, which is typical for the course. Song itself is a rocking hoot, and NY maximizes fuzz in masterful fashion while Crazy Horse harmonizes and sings background chorus in hilarity. With this and Sedan, you get Young's best solo work, which he excels. 5
Sedan Delivery- Lyrically? WTF... Your guess. But from a rocking POV, this blasts the lid right off the jar. The way the song weaves in and out of tempo, I am guessing hallucinogens Great song though. 4
Hey Hey, My My (Into the Black)- Heavy fuzzed back side of the bookend- The term "Rock and Roll will never Die". was coined with this heavy heavy flip side of the opening song. Very innovative how stylistically almost mirrored absolutley every aspect of the same song. IMO- this was NY's last great composed solo run. You nevers saw stuff like after this, Like a Hurricane, or Cowgirl in the Sand stuff ever again. Young made addtional really good albums after this, but in retrospect...... This is where he shot the whole wad. 1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i6RZY4Ar3fw&list=PLCS7Lv08nYx3PE-mhXLvmb8ZfjNP5nOu7 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i6RZY4Ar3fw&list=PLCS7Lv08nYx3PE-mhXLvmb8ZfjNP5nOu7)
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@catfish1957
Dark Side of the Moon is 50 years old today.
Would love to see a review?
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@catfish1957
Dark Side of the Moon is 50 years old today.
Would love to see a review?
@Gefn
50 years? Hard to believe. This is a pivitol album in prog. If there ever was a living breathing example of music, this is one of them.
Did the review on page 30 of the thread on 6 Jan 2023. I also have updated page 1, with an index of all reviews. And btw, I welcome any contributors to this process.
https://www.gopbriefingroom.com/index.php/topic,458127.725.html (https://www.gopbriefingroom.com/index.php/topic,458127.725.html)
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@Gefn
50 years? Hard to believe. This is a pivitol album in prog. If there ever was a living breathing example of music, this is one of them.
Did the review on page 30 of the thread on 6 Jan 2023. I also have updated page 1, with an index of all reviews. And btw, I welcome any contributors to this process.
https://www.gopbriefingroom.com/index.php/topic,458127.725.html (https://www.gopbriefingroom.com/index.php/topic,458127.725.html)
Thank you @catfish1957
This album and The Wall were a good chunk of music that got me through HS.
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Thank you @catfish1957
This album and The Wall were a good chunk of music that got me through HS.
A lady that likes prog? That's pretty amazing. Like I said, if there are albums that you'd provide a review, please do. I really wanted this thread to become a collaboration.
As far as DSOTM, I always admired it, but during its hay day, my tastes were a little more focused on hard rock. Later on, and maturing, I did really get into Prog, via, Rush, Kansas, Yes, others.....
But no denying this album really put the process of "the theme concept" more in the fore-front of the genre.
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I can not believe this I missed this, and this is so incredibly cool to see.....
25 th anniversary party of South Park....
(1) Rush (minus Peart of course) surprisingly shows up for their first appearance since Peart's death...
(2) With another one of the greatest bass players of all time Les Claypool. (Primus)
(3) And how about the moment Claypool tells Matt Stone (of South Park) that there in front of you is Alex Lifeson and Geddy Lee..... Give us your best drum licks.
Hilarious, and one of the most entertaining YT clips I have seen in years.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eQ3VjAMD5gA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eQ3VjAMD5gA)
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The Dream Theater album was a pleasant surprise, and the musicianship is way past what Metallica puts out there. The core of guitar, bass, and drums were very good. No comparison who I'd rather listen to in general. My favorites were Metropolis, Pull Me Under, and Learning to Live.
Not a fan of the vocalist, though. His voice hit all the notes (obviously), but the tone wasn't there for me, and the vocal melody doesn't seem to fit into the music sometimes. Almost like two different moods. In terms of vocals, I actually liked Surrounded the best because of a more restrained tone. It wasn't as...shrieky?
But Hetfield isn't a good vocalist, so the question is why is one so much more successful commercially than the other, and the only thing I could come up with was that DT's music seems to lack the usual "hooks". Tremendous musical complexity and musicianship, and they really got into some great sequences. But other times, I just couldn't feel the groove/pocket. Same thing ELP had a tendency to do sometimes.
Does any of that make any sense?
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The Dream Theater album was a pleasant surprise, and the musicianship is way past what Metallica puts out there. The core of guitar, bass, and drums were very good. No comparison who I'd rather listen to in general. My favorites were Metropolis, Pull Me Under, and Learning to Live.
Not a fan of the vocalist, though. His voice hit all the notes (obviously), but the tone wasn't there for me, and the vocal melody doesn't seem to fit into the music sometimes. Almost like two different moods. In terms of vocals, I actually liked Surrounded the best because of a more restrained tone. It wasn't as...shrieky?
But Hetfield isn't a good vocalist, so the question is why is one so much more successful commercially than the other, and the only thing I could come up with was that DT's music seems to lack the usual "hooks". Tremendous musical complexity and musicianship, and they really got into some great sequences. But other times, I just couldn't feel the groove/pocket. Same thing ELP had a tendency to do sometimes.
Does any of that make any sense?
Really good observations around Dream Theatre, and to a certain degree too around NIN, vs. ELP.
Side 1 of Tarkus is maybe the aesthetic example of the connection. All three have a level of extreme complexity even to the point of fatigue. And I readily admit sometimes having trouble differentiating that aspect, vs. pure musical enjoyment. What may appear to be noise to musical palate, may have a lot of deep, underlying musical value that most might not notice or realize. Not wanting to come across as a condescending Prog Snob, but I don't expect 50 Cent's fans to get it or understand.
Metallica was more a phenomenon around timing than talent or value. There appearance appealed pretty much to the same crowd as us fans had with Black Sabbath in 1971. 15 Year old guys who wanted brain numbing metal, and were of. the opinion, everything is shit. That is why I kind of notice their legacy has faded more than one would expect at this point. Clones of the orginals, never fare as well.
NIN, though even having a much smaller fan base, created some art that though sick, demented, and vulgar though talented content that will last indefintitely. Kind of like a car crash.... Impossible to look away
I do know, that it will be a long time before I review another NIN work. Felt too damned tired and violated by the end.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Alice Cooper- Love it to Death- (1971) ****
My second favorite AC album behind Billion Dollar Babies, was an easy choice. It was highly unpolished, but had that rough edge that tempered what you could see below the surface.... This is a band that though had that great schictker shock, had some great musical potential. Love it to Death, was though not their first album, was the first that had the best level of artistic value..
Vincent Furnier, aka Alice Cooper was the greatest master of macabre induced showmanship in rock history. Early on, he really blurred the personona, and you really didn't know how much was an act versus real life. This is especially evident in this very early live works from the band. Our age remembers the the Chicken event, and the shock that ensued. But when you look at the act with the Boa's the Gullotines, and executions..... It was pure genius, and it augmented what constitured was some pretty damned good rock and roll at the time I especially like the early stuff, because certain members at this point had not succumbed to drug abuse. By BDB , there were infused sessionmen who had to supplement the sound. Sad, but true.
Post BDB, created a drop off in my book, as Alice had fallen to the glitz and showmanship aspects of what the record companies and producers wanted, and at least IMO the musical product suffered terribly. They all had their moments but never ever closely approached the aura and energy of the 4 album run of Love it to Death- Killer- Schools Out- Billion Dollar Babies. Alice later became the darling of the Golf Couse, but he can be forgiven in deference to being the one guy who changed Rock forever, with vaudeville level exuberance.
One of the great things about Love it to Death, is that it as much or more than any other AC album, has maybe the most concept themed aspect of the work. The mid-albumed subject matter veilly focuses on insantity that perfectly corresponded to the stage show. Another point, is that this is a good album, that literally none is filler fodder. I literally wore this LP out as a kid.
Fun Fact: As much of a legacy this album had, this was the only AC album while under WB labeling that did not make the top 25 on charts.
Side 1-
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Caught in a Dream- LP starts with a nice tune, that was exceedingly better than anything that was on the entire 1st albums. Was always dumbfounded how they just strangely understood how to make music. Zappa influenced the 1st one, and that was a non started of a marriage I suppose, and the second was totally forgettable and was the supposed highlight of the LP was "Return of the Spiders". Can anyone hum a bar of that one? Many speculate that Bob Ezrin did his magic, and turned them into the band they were. 6
I'm 18- The bands first hit, and the ode to coming of age. Heavy rocking number with some nicely placed guitar, harmonica, and bass that induced just enough hook, to hook. AC famously opened many of those early shows with this tune, and would drink profusely in from of the crowd to their delight. Hard for me to think of 1971, without hearing this song in the background- 2
Long Way to Go- More meter like Caught in a Dream, as a standard rocker. Nothing wrong with that. Some nice Buxton/Bruce solo work. Don't ask me who, because they did a pretty decent job of sharing the load. 7
Black Juju- Enough of this regular rock and roll thing. The band starts working things that make them the shock guys they are. Song is strange foray into an African like acid trip. Tribal drums, with a hammond sounding add.... that culminates into a hard rocking set. Then Alice starts an almost Jim Morrison like macrabe narration. The wierdness is awesome, and adds to the charm of the album. 3
Side 2-
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Is it My Body- More normal rock, but more into the parody aspect of AC's stage persona. 8
Hallowed Be thy Name- Weaker number that has minimal contribution to the quality of the LP 9
Second Coming- Very surreal and effective song that works into a the drum cadence that precludes AC's execution in his stage show. Song also has an eery lead into the next song, that just might be his creepiest before, during, and after this album- 4
Ballad of Dwight Frye- There have been many rock songs around the tragedy of insanity. This may have been one of the first, and maybe most effective. Great music, great vocal phrasing, and so convincing. He often sang this song withing the confines of strait jacket, and how the song works strong power chords while weaving around narrative. This is classic AC, at its best. 1
Sun Arise- After being blasted by Dwight Frey, you are treated to an off-keyed ditty that has an equally surreal feel. The psychodelic conclusion just gives that eeirly feel that wants to your journey into insanity has been validated. It was strange, but I got it. 5
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qz-t14LlBc4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qz-t14LlBc4)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Jackson Browne- Lawyers in Love (1983) *** 1/2
Nowadays, sometimes it is hard for me to get past the past sins of activist left wing rock stars who have rellished and wallow in their hypocricy. Three in particualr come to mind in level of their dirty deeds... Springsteen, Neil Young, and today's review subject Jackson Browne. Jackson Browne was especially obnoxious in his "No Nukes" era. Thankfully when I saw him on tour for this album, he hadn't gone full blown foaming mouth Antifa yet. It just seems something about being from the S-S genre that these pukes think they are entitled to channel their inner- Dylan to the poor ticket buyer, who just wants to hear the music.
But, as I depart the soap box, I do have to give credit due. I can remember watching an Eagles documentary where the members were taken aghast at the ability of Jackson Browne's ability to create a hit almost out of thin air. He did that famously. And his catalog, though not totally filler free, has some of the best listening singer song writer stuff in his era of 1972 to say this album. You often will see me use the hook term to tie technical content to something that the listener finds pleasant, enjoyable, or catchy. Browne was the absolute master of this process. And interestingly, I find this album the best at that skill. Also interesting is that this was JB's last platinum album too. Soon afterwards, I think much of his adoring fans had become tired of his inccesant stupid bull shit advocacy and (alleged) wife beating antics. I have added the video of "Tender is the Night" below, which might be an example of the ultimae of irony.
Picking the right Jackson Browne album was choice within 3.... Running on Empty, on innovation, and pure S/S skills, Hold Out, which was almost a balance of Running on Empty, and Lawyers. And this one, which held the most "hook" allure. I could have thrown at dart hitting any of the 3. But this one has that obscurity factor, so.... my choice.
Fun Fact: Jackson Browne's highest charting hit wasn't even from one of his studio Albums. "Somebody's Baby" reached #7 in 1982, but was from the Soundtrack of Fast Times at Ridgemont High. Which from this reviewers standpoint was his best effort ever.
Side 1-
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Lawyers in Love- Absurd rocker that sets the hooks. Totally nonsensical, but very listenable. 4
On the Day- Shallow love song, that exudes cynicism, some short guitar runs, but lesser stuff as a whole. Browne never lets his support staff take much spotlight 5
Cut It Away- Great hooked synthed melodic line. Browne's voice is in fine form, and adds echoing mixing that was pretty damned innovative for the day. Thumbs up on this one. 2
Downtown- Fantastic songwriting in a neatly narrative, though sung like manner. I get nice imagery of a large city with this one, that now would be replaced with Ghetto Rap, and gun fire. Love how he also adds alt-melodic phrasing from another "Downtown" song we all remember when we were kids. 3
Side 2-
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Tender is the Night- Absolute masterpiece of songwriting. This Browne being the hooker at his very best. Organ work interplay mid-phrasal is cool. No flaw as a pop-rock song in the least. Fantastic song. OTOH, as I mentioned in body of review, having Daryl Hannah in the video considering song content is the ultimate of spousal abuse gaslighting. 1
Knock on Any Door- A significant drop off on the 2nd track. Browne strays from the formula and is sucks. 8
Say it isn't True- You knew you couldn't get by on a Jackson Browne without getting by without a ballad. Blah, and kind of middle to low of the road with that aspect of JB's music. 7
For a Rocker- Closes the LP, with a pretty apt song. Has the same metered blend as Lawyers in Love and Downtown, whicn kind of gives me the impression that he was getting kind of lazy. 6
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GaZp4fJVHmQ&list=PL044l3x5bRzbjuEWs39vQg1_zE6rtPbZt (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GaZp4fJVHmQ&list=PL044l3x5bRzbjuEWs39vQg1_zE6rtPbZt)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=er1SCSOaTb4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=er1SCSOaTb4)
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Off beat topic for today: Top 10 Great Great Bands that you are probably better off buying a compliation rater than any one or number of albums.
There are a number of bands that a massively successful. discography, but there may be some disparingly weaker stuff, i.e album consistency. Like in this case... I'd put Van Halen's best 10-15 songs up against anyone elses. Their stuff is legendary, but admittedly EVH sure had plenty of album filler.
Here are the top 10 bands (IMO) that meet the spirit of this category:
1. Van Halen
2. The Police
3. Foreigner
4. The Eagles
5. Social Distortion
6. Bad Company
7. Eric Burdon and the Animals
8. Collective Soul
9. Paul Revere and the Raiders
10. Cheap Trick.
Any other deletions? Additons?
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Off beat topic for today: Top 10 Great Great Bands that you are probably better off buying a compliation rater than any one or number of albums.
There are a number of bands that a massively successful. discography, but there may be some disparingly weaker stuff, i.e album consistency. Like in this case... I'd put Van Halen's best 10-15 songs up against anyone elses. Their stuff is legendary, but admittedly EVH sure had plenty of album filler.
Here are the top 10 bands (IMO) that meet the spirit of this category:
1. Van Halen
2. The Police
3. Foreigner
4. The Eagles
5. Social Distortion
6. Bad Company
7. Eric Burdon and the Animals
8. Collective Soul
9. Paul Revere and the Raiders
10. Cheap Trick.
Any other deletions? Additons?
I've always struggled with this exact issue with Bad Company. There are a couple of different "greatest hits" albums out there, but none of them actually have what I'd consider to be all of their best stuff. Almost bought a vinyl "greatest hits" last week until I realized it didn't have Rock Steady or Silver, Blue and Gold, which is one of my wife's favorite songs. But I did take their "10 from 6" compilation with me to the sandbox a few decades ago.
I'm now going to be thinking of this list and who else needs to go onto it. Great idea!
And unfortunately, my wife had some elective surgery which sucked up my free time, so I'm behind on listening. Going to try to hit 2 of those albums you reviewed tonight. Very much looking forward to Oldfield and NIN, neither of which I've ever heard in their entirety.
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Pink Floyd should be number 1.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Mike Oldfield- Tubular Bells (1973)
Today's review is either going to bring back vivid memories of the age, or will be fully obscure. It's greatest claim to fame is some of its work is included as soundtrack to the movie Exorcist in the day. That movie is among the top in its intended class, and what this album added just amplified the "scare factor" of that piece of cinema. But there is much much more to this classic than puking little girls with spinning heads.
Album itself is broken into what two easy parts..... Opus 1 and Part 2, corresponding with each side of the album. A particular genre can not be added like a label. Mike Oldfield basically created an almost classical experiment and a one man show of instrumental prowess and production mixing, tht really hadn't been seen to this point. And be forewarned, if you are into vocals in your musical tastes, there are none here. This is just ciricuitous mind bending instrumental orchestations that took a massive amount of thought into compostion, and piecing the structures into something that was and still is highly innovative.
As far a structurinig your listening experience, I see Tubular Bells in 2 ways just as there are 2 sides, Side 1 being, the Exorcist, and Experimental Section, while 2 is almost proto-prog in how it incorporates a lot of the strange and tempermental changing of meter in style. Almost in random fashion What can most not be lost in this review is that Oldfield via the miracle of dubbing and overdubbing, composes and performs 92-95% of the content on the album. It was quite a technological marvel at the time, and would have taken massive amounts of time, and precison handling to pull off with this much clarity and quality. I reallly listen and enjoy this LP, more like one of my classical albums than my rock ones.
Still, and I know this might be a point of contention to some , is the fact, that TB is a one hit wonder, and shot in the dark. I don't know much about why he didn't continue to have prominence in the music industry, even as just as a technical advisor alone That would have seemed like a lifetime gig, But I still have to confess this 50 year old work, holds up very well in the test of time. my. Oh, and BTW.... Headphones need to be a prerequiste for getting the full listening experience. And if you are time limited, stick with Side 1.
Fun Fact: Incredibly Mike Oldfield was 19 years old when this album was released.
Side 1- Opus 1- The first 2/3 of the Opus are assigned as a guide to the eery and creepy accompaniment to the movie The Exorcist. Oldfield and his tiny supporting cast shine in their compostion. This thing is all over the map, and abruptly startles the listener even at a drop of a hat. Outside ELP, there weren't many into the classical compostion mode, and this is some of the best at the time. Amazing how Oldfield flips the swith, at will between airy, foreboding, majestic, etc. Very powerful and talented piece of work. The last 1/3 of the Opus (About 17:00), is a mind blowing almost clinician like exercise on explaining instrumentation and compostion. Oldfield powerfully starts with a bass line and sub-melodic line, and adds instruments in, cressendos them, and then either stops are relegates them in the background. This part is a work of art. I love how it is narrated as the instrumential weaving begins.
Side 2- Part 2- This is what I call the UK traditional prog side. No, not traditional like Tull, this one like its predecessor on Side 1 is all over the map. Starts with a near symphonic string fest, that lasts for half the movement. Second movement delves into some Klingon-ish growling and howling that harkens in an almost Zappa-Magical Mystery Tour bizarre like mix that might sound a bit like Genesis on a crazy day. I haven't listened to this side probably since I was a teenager, and can honestly say that I missed the boat. Very enjoyable. 3rd and also movement(ish), does some beautiful classical guitar and keyboard mixing, into uhhhh.... Popeye The Sailor Man? What a long strange trip this has been.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bv_4sZCLlr0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bv_4sZCLlr0)
I had no idea where this was going, so it was.pretty cool. The first cut/theme obviously is the one I know. There was a lot of filler/stuff that missed elsewhere, and I don't know the track names. BUT, I very much enjoyed the piece where.Oldfield's distorted voice was listing various instruments, and also the "Klingon-esque" growling parts and the music around that. Both of those sections are definite bits I'll try to isolate and listen to again.
The misses/filler are completely excusable given his age, the fact that it was solo, and the experimental nature of the album. The stuff that works is most definitely worth it for me.
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Pink Floyd should be number 1.
Never gave much thought to Pink Floyd being in the class in needing a compliaton album for the audiophile. Too many of their albums are classics, and are indiviual prog journeys that need to be heard track to track in their specific order to get the feeling Waters/Gilmore, et. al were trying to share.
They've done 15 "Best of's" , but if there is someone out there who wants one, at least in my eyes the perfect sampler, and familarity, this is the one from '01. They've nicely packaged it chronologically, and if anything gives you a good feel of how the band changed through the years.
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/6/66/Pink_Floyd_Echoes-300.jpg/220px-Pink_Floyd_Echoes-300.jpg)
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Great reviews on Neil Young and Jackson Browne. @catfish1957
I am somewhat ambivalent about NY. In my mind he goes from good to bad both vocally and lyrically. At one time, much like you, I had all his albums (still do). I finally got to the only two I would listen to were Everyone Knows This Is Nowhere and (much later) Harvest. I will still listen to Harvest. I mellowed out, as did Neil, I guess.
I can't believe you chose my fav JB album! I was going to ask you for a review on JB but I have read your posts that you really don't like ballads. Tender Is The Night, imho, is a great song both lyrically and simplicity. The rest of Lawyers is very listenable. There is another that he did after his break up with Hannah that was pretty interesting.
It's too bad both of these artists went so political ( as so many others have). Big reason I have not gone to a concert in a long while. Just shut up and sing. The only thing I can say is that NY and JB were political before political was cool. :laugh:
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Great reviews on Neil Young and Jackson Browne. @catfish1957
I am somewhat ambivalent about NY. In my mind he goes from good to bad both vocally and lyrically. At one time, much like you, I had all his albums (still do). I finally got to the only two I would listen to were Everyone Knows This Is Nowhere and (much later) Harvest. I will still listen to Harvest. I mellowed out, as did Neil, I guess.
I can't believe you chose my fav JB album! I was going to ask you for a review on JB but I have read your posts that you really don't like ballads. Tender Is The Night, imho, is a great song both lyrically and simplicity. The rest of Lawyers is very listenable. There is another that he did after his break up with Hannah that was pretty interesting.
It's too bad both of these artists went so political ( as so many others have). Big reason I have not gone to a concert in a long while. Just shut up and sing. The only thing I can say is that NY and JB were political before political was cool. :laugh:
There was a time in the late '70's and early to mid '80's I listened way too much to JB and NY. Jackson Browne for the ability and blend to have both lyrical and music mastery with songs that on the surface were quite simple. Young, OTOH, was more like me trying to interpret his nonsenical lyricism, but also enjoy is rocking Crazy Horse angles.
I almost reviewed "Runnng on Empty" just on novelty value alone. The concept of creating a 1/2 live-1/2 studio-ish LP was pretty interesting, and he made it work nicely. I'd throw Hold Out out there for music value, which was pretty close to Lawyers.
And you are right about Young too. His Everybody's Rockin' '50's rockbilly album is about silliest piece of garbage I have seen following rock music for over 55 years. Sadly, I went to his concert supporting this album, and he only played the songs on this album, over the rancous "boos" in the crowd, including me. Nothing on encore of anything older.... SOB showed us.
(https://i.discogs.com/manw86QamrTMTiiJKEVz-rE81LhBbpa9YIBuEMyJ2Oc/rs:fit/g:sm/q:90/h:595/w:600/czM6Ly9kaXNjb2dz/LWRhdGFiYXNlLWlt/YWdlcy9SLTgyMDA5/NjktMTQ1NzAyNzcx/Ni04Mzg3LmpwZWc.jpeg)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Paul Revere and the Raiders- Just Like Us (1966) ***
Even though Paul Revere and the Raiders pre-dated the Beatles, as they existed in the late Rockabilly times of the early '60's, they were among the best at recreating Beatlemania here, with enough similarity, but enough to give them their own identity. But first, I do have to say the campy ridiculous Revolutionary War Uniforms were one of the silliest "schtick" attention grabbers ever. They even performed in this garb.
Their very early Beatlemania type stuff, was kind of marked with covers and remakes, which kind of detracts from this album, but in terms of being ahead of or "right-timed" this particular album really encapuslated 1966 very well. They had enough rebellious sensibility with things like "Steppin Out", and enough with pop tendencies to give this a mass appeal to kids over here, who wanted something like the Beatles. And this one particular was their pinnacle of success, hitting No. 5 on the charts, during the era nad time that was still dominated by contemporary fare.
Again, I wouldn't call this band edgy, but they did take and exploit the formula nicely in the mid '60's. Further in their career, they became more of a nostalgic joke. Still doesn't underscore the success at the time, and should be given props accordingly. I at least in this album, though cover driven, they do it pretty nicely.
Fun Fact: Band actually had a huge 1 hit wonder, and it hit No.1 in 1971- Indian Reservation. Pitiful last gasp.
Side 1-
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Steppin' Out- Maybe it's just me, but this one, which was one their big hits, has somewhat of "Rubber Soul" touch or feel to it. Hmmm.. maybe I went to far with that one. :cool: Song does serve the average '60's theme though, and it is one that they actually wrote- 2
Dogone- Motown Miracles remake that was done pretty nicely. Got that nice Sam the Sham vibe to it, that dominated the am radios in the day- 3
Out of Sight- Boys seem to want to keep the '50's fan base happy with another motown/rock-a-billy zinger. Lesser cut. 6
Baby Please Dont Go- So many have covered this song, including the Stones. To me, this delta-blues standard is like a "test" of your blues chops. In the test, I'll give the guys a "B-" or "C+". In any case, there is no way not to love this tune. An epic.- 4
I Know- Ugh, now the band is butchering old time R & B. The incessant laughing within the song makes it almost a parody. Sucks. 12
Night Train- Now I like this interpreatation of this old big band era classic. Song basically is Night Train, with a "Louie Louie" overlay. No, not innovative, but pretty entertaining. 5
Side 2-
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Just Like Me- By far the very best cut on the album. A hit of course, and along with "Hungry" from 2 albums, the songs you associate their greatness. They used (abused) the F-G-C repetitive chordal just as well as Louie, and Wild Thing, and was such a hallmark feel and sound of the time. And by all means, the guitar solo, midway is absolutely mouth dropping considering this is 1966. If you are limitied to listening to one song on this album.... this is the one. 1
Catch the Wind- When this came on, my first thought is that is sounded like Donovan, and lo..... that was the songwriter. Except in this case, try a Donovan song being sung by Sonny Bono. Poor cover. 10
I Can't Get No Satisfaction- Yep, the Stones classic. At the time (1966), it might not have been seen as being so ballsy. Substandard and strange. Later in life, I bet they were pretty embarrassed. 11
I'm Crying- Decent cover of this Animals number. In fact it almost sounds the same, if Eric Burdon had drank half a six pack. 7
New Orleans- Another remake, that kind of sounds like Beach Boys meet the Monster Mash. I giss you can danze to it. 9
Action- Another Beach Boys sounding knock off. Album ends weakly.- 8
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VLm3it912SI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VLm3it912SI)
And blast from the past. Check out the styles.....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uAkzCytZjjQ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uAkzCytZjjQ)
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Like every other 13 year old girl at the time, I had a huge crush on Mark Lindsay and one of the guit-pickers.
I agree, the garb and stage presence was pretty campy. But I look at some of the groups of today and see the same exaggerated performances...sans Revolutionary War costumes. I also get a kick out of watching any of the groups of that era on The Sullivan Show reruns...no wonder my Perry Como (who I love as well) loving parents thought I had lost my mind, lol.
As campy as they were, they don't sound too bad. Of course, miracles are made in a sound studio. And not being a musician as you are, I'm not able to discern the flaws. I can't help but believe there was massive amounts of lip sincing going on. :laugh: Even as young as those guit-pickers were...it would be tough to sing, play guitar and do the crazy choreography all at the same time.
This brought back good memories!
As an aside: JB's Hold Out also rocks, in a JB kind of way.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Blue Oyster Cult- The Revolution By Night (1983) ****
Been dying to cover a more obscure album for awhile, and though this one might meet that criteria, it is just crazy how underlooked, and unapprecated it was. BOC made a few albums better than this one, but they were the huge hits in the mainstream AOR era that everyone knew. This one sadly and puzzlingly only reached #93 on the billboard album chart during its realease in '83-'84. My only explaination is that the nation was being swept into New Wave mania, and if you weren't wearing skinny ties, cheap sunglasses, and playing fancy dancy synth numbers....... you pretty much were out in the cold. But BOC with this masterpiece, basically created a comeback of monsrtrous proportions, after a lull with 2 or 3 consecutive very good, but not great albums.
BOC are an incredibly talented bunch, and legends at their instruments, Dharma, Bloom, these guys were hard rock standards. And in live performances? I can only honestly state that there were only two bands in my entire extensive concert going history that played more precise, criisp, and true to their studio albums, and those being Rush and Yes.
And point for this album, what makes it so special, is the amount of outside collaboration that came together to make this thing click on so many levels. The fact so few listened to this work, was a shame. And here is a list of those who were in that collaboration:
1. Aldo Nova- His guitar solo work in "Take Me Away"? It's never cited, but easy a top 20 rock solo of all time.
2. Larry Fast- He lives anonymity now, but back in the '70's and '80's he was one of the most proficent and innovative purveyors of synth on the planet. His technical abilities changed how the instrument was used.
3. Ian Hunter of Mott the Hoople
4. Randy Jackson- Yeah that Randy Jackson, for some R/B touches
5. Neal Smith- Drummer for Alice Cooper
The album has especially grown on me through the years, as it has such a rounded, more emcompassive edge, that a lot of BOC stuff that seems to adhere to the self imposed creepy themed persona. This one was much more experimental in nature, and in most cases, was compellingly good. If you missed this one 30 years ago, I think you are in for a treat.
Fun fact: Probably most well known fun fact, but anyway......... band was intergral to one of the most infamous SNL skits of all time, with a hilarious Christopher Walken giving the term "Needs More Cow Bell" to the venacular in infamy. Haven't seen too many comedy skits, where the cast had such a tough time holding it together.
Side 1-
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Take Me Away- Blasting away at the first note, this song just clicks all the boxes as a great rock and roll song. BOC loved the topic of alien invasion, and this along ET- Extraterrestrial are both among their greatest of all. Mandatory listening is Aldo Nova's guitar solos. Nova-Dharma-Bloom? How bad ass is that. As I stated earlier, this is easy in my top 20 solos of all time. I've tried to even come to 25% of the licks to reproduce it.... No luck. 1
Eyes on Fire- Good, uh, maybe so so effort to expand to a little lighter balladry, that sounds a lot a mix of Starship and Toto. I see how BOC was trying to really broaden their horizons, and in this LP, there were some hits, and misses- 6
Shooting Shark- The fact that this is the second best song on the album is astounding. It is a gorgeous in ever part. The thumping repetive bass line, complimenting synth. And this IMO is the best song ever sung by Buck Dharma. The way he infuses this vocal reflections into the lyrics, gives an almost poetic jaunt to what serves as a poignant poem, that just happens to blend into context and becomes a great great rock song- 2
Veins- BOC nails this jazzish-rock-ish that is so different to most anything else they've done. They were showing off, and the result was really good. And as usual, you never know which tandem of Dharma-Bloom does the solo work, but they are almost as equally damned good. 4
Side 2-
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Shadow of California- Now they turn to more a funky tone, that morphs into almost mid '70's rock anthem mode. Love it. Man, are these some masterful musicans. 3
Feel the Thunder- Macabre familarity for the die hard fans. Some of it kind of harkens just a tad back with BOC's early '70's musical direction. Good song, but not a good fit with the rest of the LP- 7
Let's Go- Barrell House baby!!!!- Really like this, and it has that feel if you mixed AC-DC and Huey Lewis. Try that imagery on for size. Fun song, that is for sure. :silly: 5
Dragon Lady- Normal BOC wizardry, but weaker on all other aspects- 8
Light Years of Love- Sappy balladry is not the best look on a band this great. Weak last two song ending, and that kept it from being up there with Agents in terms of greatness -9
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BfICFoYyBgw (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BfICFoYyBgw)
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Like every other 13 year old girl at the time, I had a huge crush on Mark Lindsay and one of the guit-pickers.
I agree, the garb and stage presence was pretty campy. But I look at some of the groups of today and see the same exaggerated performances...sans Revolutionary War costumes. I also get a kick out of watching any of the groups of that era on The Sullivan Show reruns...no wonder my Perry Como (who I love as well) loving parents thought I had lost my mind, lol.
As campy as they were, they don't sound too bad. Of course, miracles are made in a sound studio. And not being a musician as you are, I'm not able to discern the flaws. I can't help but believe there was massive amounts of lip sincing going on. :laugh: Even as young as those guit-pickers were...it would be tough to sing, play guitar and do the crazy choreography all at the same time.
This brought back good memories!
As an aside: JB's Hold Out also rocks, in a JB kind of way.
I really like the fact that Paul Revere/R' had a few songs in the mid '60's that had almost a hard rock feel to them. They just weren't belting out "Louie Louie" 3 chord numbers, these two sound almost 2-3 years ahead of their time. From above see "Just Like You". and "Hungry" which really got some serious airplay. How this one and it's innuendo, got by the censors in the day...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OuBGWUSJGp4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OuBGWUSJGp4)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day Album- Asia- Asia (1982) * 1/2
Can you imagine my excitment in 1981, when I was reading about the formation of a band, a supergroup formed from pieces of Yes, King Crimson, and Emerson Lake and Palmer? Well, today I am deviating from the norm, and reviewing what I felt was a disgusting product. When this album hit the air waves, I was already sold. "Heat of the Moment" had been almost simuateaneously released, and for good reason. This was an great great song. Maybe the perfectly constructed hooked, power chorded rocker in an '80's era that had been flooded by new wave product.
So I obviously took the bait, and forked over my about $5.99 at the time, got it home, put it in the turntable, and was pissed. What resulted was a inverse sum of the parts of these bands... No heart, no soul, no songwriting prowees (minus Heat) Yeah, commerical glitz and corporate wizardry has wrestled this LP, even to No. 1 on the charts. This group and Damned Yankees has sullied the rock landscape with the term "Super Group". It didn't take long for the record buying public to catch on. This album hit no.1 The second one- No. the 3rd- 67, and then six albums that didn't even crack the Top 200. The fact that this band was allowed to make 13 studio albums is a mystery, except for the fact that many fans are hell bent on having the collection of members of their former bands.
But yes, I was duped, loved the one song, and cursed Geffen and his traveling Snake Oil Business afterwards. I was also very disappointed at some of the legends that I hold in very very very high regard who took part in this debacle. This includes Carl Palmer, Steve Howe, and John Wetton.
Fun Fact: Asia went 23 years and 7 albums (CD's) later in a drought of commerical failures (top 200) 1985-2008. Seen a lot of discography and that is pretty unique in length and volume.
Songs-
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Heat of the Moment- I will have to admit, that this one song is one of the best rock tunes of the early 1980's. Beaurtiiful power chorded, that has more hooks that at a quilting show. Which is part of the problem. Wetton almost sounds like Greg Lake in a vocal effort of a lifetime. Palmer's only inspired (at least for him) clicks and fills on the LP too. Seems they spent their entire studio time, sinking all their creative eggs in one basket. Fantastic song. 1
I wouldn't say the rest of the album is true filler. "Only Time Will Tell 2 " is a decent representative of the band's cumulative talents. Otherwise, pretty much everything Asia made was ill conceived, and an inverse sum of the parts of the talent of the particpants. The era of the supergroups sucked, and did irreparable damage to the AOR genre.
Everything else- 3-9
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GssLLBnlN14 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GssLLBnlN14)
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@catfish1957
Same experience with Asia as you.
I didn't even know they made more albums after the 1st one, which was good, so long as you used it as a frisbee.
Maybe as Skeet shooting, PULL!
I couldn't be bothered to check.
I was a big Steve Howe fan at the time, and I was severely disappointed.
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@catfish1957
I was a big Steve Howe fan at the time, and I was severely disappointed.
@GrouchoTex
Steve Howe must have been absent in the songwriting sessions. He made better music singularly on Fragile, than the entire 9 of 13 LP Asia releases he was a participant. As far as I know he may have been there for name only as a session man, but got named in a few tunes in passive manner.
I also had to laugh a few weeks ago, as I saw some Uncle Ted pod casts glowingly reminiscing about his Damned Yankee's. foray. I was just shaking my heard in disbelief. Which reminds me.... Might be a good time for a Amboy Duke's review......
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Amboy Dukes- Journey to the Center of the Mind (1968) ** 1/2
The Amboy Dukes were a very competent innovative Detroit based band that goes even back to the mid 1960's. Their true claim to fame is that their front man was the Motor City Mad Man himself, Ted Nugent. 90% of the talent and persona was around Uncle Ted, and definitiley had the Detroit sized ego to carry the band to success.
The band never ever really charted well, but they did have some flashes of uneven talent. To best describe the Amboy Dukes, they were one of the best on our side of the pond as a poor man's Cream. Don't get me wrong, Cream was multiudes better at their craft, but these guys did do some pretty inspiring psychedelic bluesy hard rock, that was pretty out there for 1967-1968. And of course, it gave rise to Ted's solo career, which is much more known, and acknowledged. His solo work is much more AOR oriented than these prehistoric versions of his stuff. Thankfully, not many were doing psychedelia by the mid 1970's. Thank God.
This particular album (at #74) was the only one that charted in the top 100, which was somewhat a surprise to me. My best guess and estimate, is that the rest of the band though good, were not that good. Songwriting was uneven, and dumb right dumb at times. Whether that had more to do with Nugent's ego, or technical skills, that would be up for debate. But there is no doubt. Ted is center stage, and spotlighted 99% of the time., and in this particular album, he almost hit one out of the park with guitar work ahead of its time.
Fun fact: Nugent has always expressed his distaste with substance abuse, and even claimed that Journey to the Center of the Mind did not have drug inferences.... Even though the album cover art was full of hookahs? Yeah, sure Ted.
Side 1-
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Mississippi Murderer- Album starts with a Chicago-ey blues song. Nothing really sets this apart as inspiring. Hammond solo-ing was pretty nice, but in the end.... standard stuff. 5
Surrender to the Kings- Dreadful vocals, which might be a lot of the reason this band never really resonated outside interest in Nugent. Ted does his thing though, and that is alwasy interesting. 9
Flight of the Byrd- One the high points of the album, Bass player line down some nice lines, that augmented Nugents ax well . Too bad the rest of the album didn't take this formula instead of the strange path it did.2
Scottish Tea- Bizarre, but nice ditty that tries to recreate some traditional Scottish pipe sounding folksy uhh.. thing. I am sure the guys in kilts were laughing their asses off at this, but it worked okay for me. Maybe working on my primordial ancestry? 4
Dr. Slingshot- Hard rocking that shows a lot in future Amboy Dukes work. I liked it, and it has that late 1960's feel to it. 3
Side 2-
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Journey to the Center of the Mind- I think it is safe to say that if song had not been written, no one today would have ever heard of Ted Nugent. This is the one and by far, their signature, and most famous song. And a fine song it is. A rollicking rocker that was a standard of rock FM radio in the day. Provides the most typiclal style licks that were incorporatd into much of the rest of Nugent's career. 1
(Then it strangely unravels rather than building on the conceptual classic)
Ivory Castles- Donovan sounding gibberish. Ill sounding, ill advised. Silly shit. 13
Why is a Carrot more Orange than an Orange- More '60's silliness, and randomness 12
Missionary Mary- Somewhat an upgrade from prior two songs, though it has the phrasing that borders on inane. I think Nugent was trying to recreate some kind of Sgt. Peppers kind of feel, but whatever. 8
Death is Life- Sometimes trying Grandiose comes across, yeah I'll use that word again...sillingly. I know most of Side 2 has that aura to it, and in 1968 it might have seemed timely, now it just seems terribly dated. 7
Saint Phillips Friend- More of the Same. Side 2 seems like a concept album without a concept. Random stuff, that would have been mostly collected into one song of riffs, and tears in the form of one song as an instrumental. 10
I'll Prove I'm Right- Nice psychadelic kind of riffing in a quaint '60's kind of way. Side 2 wasn't a total loss. 6
Conclusion- Pointless recount of side 2. Key to this, is to stick with Side 1, and obviously the first cut of Side 2- 11
And don't forget..... Why is a carrot more orange than an orange. :pondering:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BLmRYHZXvGg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BLmRYHZXvGg)
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I swear I'm catching up tonight....
Did want to comment on the Nine Inch Nails, which I'd never really listened to before but did go through the whole album.
Yes, it was some pretty disturbing stuff. Interesting, and I can see why Reznor has been successful. But I can also see why listening to that kind of stuff extensively would be bad news.
Music was pretty good, but damn would it have been nice to have an actual drummer/percussionist rather than the drum machines. I know the drum machines are part of the point of the music, but not my thing in general.
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I'll comment on the Asia review more fully later -- I saw them at one of their very first gigs in the Spring of 1982 in Baltimore. I was a Midshipman at the time and was illegally at the show with a buddy, and had to make it back by taps so we missed the encore. But my feelings are generally the same as you guys.
However, the review of Asia has prompted me to post a different album review than I had intended, so that'll go up later as well. It'll serve as some additional explanation excuse as to why I wanted to see Asia.
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There are (were) very few super group collaborations that I have liked. I've already poked enough fun this week at Damned Yankees.
I did enjoy the Wilburys for the fact of the way they presented their stuff. And again more for the unique way they vocalized it in great fun and the commradary concept.
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There are (were) very few super group collaborations that I have liked. I've already poked enough fun this week at Damned Yankees.
I did enjoy the Wilburys for the fact of the way they presented their stuff. And again more for the unique way they vocalized it in great fun and the commradary concept.
I agree. The Wilburys were great fun to listen to.
Since you did ask several posts before, I will ask. Next time you want to go retro, would you do a review of Mitch Ryder and the Detroit Wheels? I enjoy your reviews. Truthfully, I am not knowledgeable enough and if I write something it would be like...The Titanic. Sad story, the ship sank. The end. :laugh: They had a pretty good drummer and lead guitarist. And actually, Mitch sounds a lot like Bob Segar. This was brought to mind by a reference to Uncle Ted (who I also like.)
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I'll catch up as best I can here, and in no particular order....
Unlike most supergroups, the collective ego of the Wilburys was much less than the sum of their parts. Seemed like they were there for the music rather than egos, and as a result made some really nice songs. Harrison wrote my favorite Beatles songs anyway....
Paul Revere and the Raiders -- Damn was this a pleasant surprise. Musicianship isn't up there with a lot of other bands, but there was clear passion and an appealing rawness to their sound. Don't think I'd ever heard this before, but Just Like Me and especially Hungry were just damn good.
Blue Oyster Cult - For me, this was kind of the flip side of Paul Revere. Superior musicianship, but the terminal prog in me couldn't handle the lack of...surprise in a lot of the songs. Veins, though, really got me. Probably because of the jazzy time sig. jumps, but I really liked that one.
So jumping to Asia...yeah, what an incredible disappointment. I was very familiar with Palmer, Howe, Wetton, but only knew Downes from Video Killed the Radio Star, which should have tipped me off. Downs and Wetton did most of the writing, and I assume it was primarily Downs with the music and Wetton with the lyrics. And there you go....Funny thing is that Heat of the Moment was the very last song they wrote. It's a very good straight ahead rock/pop song, and Only Time Will Tell was a nice ballad. Didn't mind Sole Survivor either, but the whole thing was just shockingly more mainstream than what I had hoped/half-expected given the involvement of Wetton and Howe. Like I said, I saw them in early '82. Looked it up, and it was their 6th gig as a band in a Owings Mill Md. Venue that only held a couple of thousand. Good seats, but the band pretty much stuck to the album other than Howe doing The Clap (awesome), and a ridiculously good drum solo by Palmer that was worth the price alone. Never seen one like it before or since.
I know Howe is the one people look to as the true progressive guy in that band, but that overlooks John Wetton's background, which leads to me to my soon to be posted album review....
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King Crimson - USA (1975). or "Definitely Not Asia".
For a lot of folks, King Crimson is remembered for In the Court of the Crimson King, and perhaps 21st Century Schizoid Man, both from their first album in 1969. Other than Schizoid Man, you could sort of describe their original sound as a more ornate, more adventurous Moody Blues. Majestic, orchestral, etc.. That first album kind of hid the fact that live, they were actually a very heavy band. But after two albums, everyone was gone from the band except guitarist Robert Fripp, and the sound changed dramatically. In 1973, what I'd call King Crimson Mark III saw Fripp joined by ex-Yes Drummer Bill Bruford, Ex-Family member John Wetton, violinist David Cross, and rather insane percussionist Jamie Muir. I was going to review one of their studio albums, but to maximize the contrast with Asia, thought I'd skip to a live album recorded at a concert in Asbury Park in 1974, which is a good representation of why they've sometimes been credited with birthing progressive metal. No Muir as he'd left to join a monastery.
This is Crimson at their heaviest, with Bruford and Wetton determined to play as loudly and aggressively as possible, and Fripp characterizing it as trying to play with a "flying brick wall". I'll do studio albums another time, but figured this might be amusing after Asia. Hard to find the right original album mix because Fripp had the album remixed on a couple of occasion to turn down the bass and up his guitar, and I prefer it with all the massive fuzz-bass speakers can handle. Also, Crimson is really tight with their intellectual property, and there isn't a freebie of the entire album anywhere on YouTube so I had to go song by song. Anyway, here it goes....
Larks Tongues in Aspic, Part II - this is a rather straight-forward, riff based instrumental with Fripp having sole writing credit -- something very unusual with the band and that is somewhat reflected in the comparative directness of the song. Also, a bit slow for my taste which makes it drag a bit at times. Wetton's bass still bowls Fripp over on occasion, with Cross supply following Fripp with his violin. I've always found the album version of this to be a bit tedious until some time-signature magic in the last couple of minutes, but this live version is dirty, distorted, and kind of menacing. Dream Theater actually did a cover of this song, and I'll bet that sounded better live too. 6
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HYF3KU-UALg
Lament This is another comparatively straightforward song, starting off with a ballad-like opening vocal about the vagaries of the music industry by Wetton at his mouthful of spit sounding best. Or worst. But it's really the music here, with Bruford and Wetton hammering away again, some nice Mellotron bits by Cross, and Fripp doing Fripp stuff. Amusing cat-call at the very beginning of the song from some woman screaming "Who made your violin?", which they deliberately didn't edit. Nice touch considering they fired Cross after this tour. 5
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ar9Y6H6MjFQ
Exiles This is actually something of a ballad, clearly about people arriving in a new land. I prefer the album version, but always really liked this song as it has some of the color and heft of Crimson Mark I. Another amusing catcall at the beginning of this one with some guy yelling "Lake sucks", apparently not realizing that Greg Lake hasn't been in the band for 4 years. Or maybe he was saying Lake sucks in comparison to Wetton. Who knows? 4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qsP49QAxsHE
Asbury Park The essential tune on the album. Crimson Mark III typically had fully 1/3 of their set completely unscripted -- free improvisation. Someone would start to play, and others joined in if, when and how they deemed appropriate. This particular jam began with Bruford starting off with a syncopated rhythm, joined first by Wetton, and then by Fripp with some blazingly fast solos. Nothing written or planned ahead of time. It builds with Bruford and Wetton thundering down the middle, and Fripp flying all around them trying to be heard. The tightness of this completely unscripted jam is rather amazing. Unfortunately, I can only find one of the Fripp-remixed versions rather than the original album version where the bass is much stronger. Although you can still hear Wetton yelling out the chord change "F" at about the 4 minute mark because, as Monty Python would say, "he's making it up as he goes along". Asia this is not.1
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aOg5NSJFKqM
Easy Money Cool, extended piece that beings with a very heavy riff, free-form midsection, then returning back to the riff at the end. Good tune. 2
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6G9YOvX76D4
21st Century Schizoid Man This is the only song off the first 4 albums this version of the band ever played. Heaviness of the original matches this lineup really well, and Wetton's bass playing on this is really impressive. Again, to think this dude went on to freaking Asia....3
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4kO44O4-BgU
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Excellent review Major. I will admit to honestly to have never listened to this album, or other King Crimson live LP.
One thing that I have always admired about this band is their strong adherence of sticking with being prog pioneers, and not straying too far off the formula. Of course that is kind a of a double edged sword in that it satisfies the hard core fans, but the crtics needlessly chiding the band about sound redundancy. Like other prog greats like Pink Floyd, ELP, Rush, Yes, and even Kansas, they all have a dying obsession to being impeccably crisp, accurate, and true to the studio versions.
With that stated, I was marveled that KC actually took the "improv" approach on this album. And maybe to address critical issues. This normally the grandisose approach that hard rock behmoths like Zeppelin and Purple used. Getting a great prog act to operate out of that box is truly an anomoly, and in this album it worked pretty nicely. Your terminology around "free form" was very apt. My favorite on the LP. As a musician, improv when really clicking like a jazz piece.... is a work of art when working perfectly.
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I agree. The Wilburys were great fun to listen to.
Since you did ask several posts before, I will ask. Next time you want to go retro, would you do a review of Mitch Ryder and the Detroit Wheels? I enjoy your reviews. Truthfully, I am not knowledgeable enough and if I write something it would be like...The Titanic. Sad story, the ship sank. The end. :laugh: They had a pretty good drummer and lead guitarist. And actually, Mitch sounds a lot like Bob Segar. This was brought to mind by a reference to Uncle Ted (who I also like.)
Mitch Ryder and the Detroit Wheels? Loved their sound, and they were among the best out thre that did mostly and exclusively covers. I've so far kind of avoided reviewing bands that basically operated in that mode. OTOH, Their renditon of "Little Latin Lupe' Lu (my favorite by them) was the best, and superior to those by the Rightous Brothers or Paul Revere and the Raiders. AND... as far as musical style the likes of the greats like Nugent, Seger, have cited them as influences. No minimizing that!!!
Another band that was kind of in the same boat, and had even greater success was "Three Dog Night". When I was about 10 or 11, they were right up there as my favorites. But they pretty much did not do any song writing of any quantity. But man did they ever crank out the hits.
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Excellent review Major. I will admit to honestly to have never listened to this album, or other King Crimson live LP.
One thing that I have always admired about this band is their strong adherence of sticking with being prog pioneers, and not straying too far off the formula. Of course that is kind a of a double edged sword in that it satisfies the hard core fans, but the crtics needlessly chiding the band about sound redundancy. Like other prog greats like Pink Floyd, ELP, Rush, Yes, and even Kansas, they all have a dying obsession to being impeccably crisp, accurate, and true to the studio versions.
With that stated, I was marveled that KC actually took the "improv" approach on this album. And maybe to address critical issues. This normally the grandisose approach that hard rock behmoths like Zeppelin and Purple used. Getting a great prog act to operate out of that box is truly an anomoly, and in this album it worked pretty nicely. Your terminology around "free form" was very apt. My favorite on the LP. As a musician, improv when really clicking like a jazz piece.... is a work of art when working perfectly.
Great points about the improvisation, and kind of why I picked this album. In the Court, while one of my favorite albums, painted an almost misleading picture of a band that was tightly scripted when the truth, even back then, was very much the opposite. It's why you got 10 minutes of pure improv in the album version of "Moonchild" after the short opening, and live recordings of them back then had tons of it. To them, "soloing" was really "everyone soloing at once", which made things interesting on occasion.
I also thought it was interesting that Dream Theater had covered the first song on that album, and they did a very nice job on it when they did. Definite overlap in that sound.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9GvOkQjBtDg
Anyway, I've always considered Crimson the "proggiest" of the prog bands because as later reviews will show, their sound never stagnated. You may not have liked it, but it was constantly changing in part because each musician was given far more freedom to define their parts as they saw fit. And as soon as Fripp thought they got into a rut, he'd break up the band. As annoying of a bleep as he is, he did help keep them moving. Though you sometimes have to sift through the misses to find the gems.
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Honesty Poll for Every Briefer Guy Born in the 1950's?
Did you own this 8 Track Tape or Cassette, and always have it in your Truck or Car?
Why was it there? :cool:
(https://i.discogs.com/WQuTCnAZHKDfLkCf-yl5kKcVDSbRv4JJ-vSjqbekNyI/rs:fit/g:sm/q:90/h:600/w:600/czM6Ly9kaXNjb2dz/LWRhdGFiYXNlLWlt/YWdlcy9SLTQ5OTcz/NC0xMzkwNTkzODQ5/LTY0NTcuanBlZw.jpeg)
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Things have always been a bit crazy....
50 years ago, give or take, one the largest selling recording artists in history wrote, and sang a love song to a Rat.
No, not a person who was a rat. An actual rodent.
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Things have always been a bit crazy....
50 years ago, give or take, one the largest selling recording artists in history wrote, and sang a love song to a Rat.
No, not a person who was a rat. An actual rodent.
Ben? Loved that song. happy77
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Mitch Ryder and the Detroit Wheels? Loved their sound, and they were among the best out thre that did mostly and exclusively covers. I've so far kind of avoided reviewing bands that basically operated in that mode. OTOH, Their renditon of "Little Latin Lupe' Lu (my favorite by them) was the best, and superior to those by the Rightous Brothers or Paul Revere and the Raiders. AND... as far as musical style the likes of the greats like Nugent, Seger, have cited them as influences. No minimizing that!!!
Another band that was kind of in the same boat, and had even greater success was "Three Dog Night". When I was about 10 or 11, they were right up there as my favorites. But they pretty much did not do any song writing of any quantity. But man did they ever crank out the hits.
Thanks @catfish1957 ! I had never thought about the fact that both bands were basically cover bands. But poking around on their discographies, they sure were. :laugh:
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Thanks @catfish1957 ! I had never thought about the fact that both bands were basically cover bands. But poking around on their discographies, they sure were. :laugh:
@berdie
The guys in 3 Dog Night had truly amazing voices. They could have probably sold songs from reading a phone book.
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Will be taking about a 3 or 4 day run to the ancestral home for some technology, news and current events detox.
Wife is claiming it is mandatory. Says no computers, TV, staring into a fireplace mindlessly, and walks in the woods is theraputic. Didn't get the part about where did she get her MD.
As far as good music, I've really have been enjoying and had really overlooked the stuff (2 of 4) of Yes from the Trevor Babin era. I think I will review one of those 4 when I get back. Everybody remembers 90125 and Big Generator in earnest, but the other two- Union and Talk have great moments too.
Babin has had amazing career, and if you look at his accomplshment in film scores alone, you realize how amazing a coup Yes pulled off adding him to their ranks, and given such a leading role in songwriting. His additon just one of many reasons why Yes is among the favorites of many of us here.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trevor_Rabin (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trevor_Rabin)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Yes- Talk (1994) *****
Yes, is a beloved band by many of us at TBR, and are among the greatest stalwarks of prog in both quality of longevity. Finding a great Yes album to review is like shooting fish in barrel. If you ask all of us fans, of the what constiutued their core greatest, you'd probably come up with a line up like this... Anderson-Howe-Wakefield-Squire-Bruford from about 75-90% of us, including me.
But, if there is one outside that core that is considered the greatest, there might be some differing opinions, but in my choice it is no doubt Trevor Babin. Babin is an incredibly talented songwriter, classical composer, and musicanship who pretty much help re-invent Yes for a whole new geneation in the mid to late 1980's with "90125" and "Big Generator", as he very much dominates the music making chops of the era of Yes he participated in. To provide an idea of the level of innovation by Mr. Babin listen below some of his non-Yes endeavors, including composing the TV NBA theme song, and one of my favorite Movie soundtracks of all time... "National Treasure".
Babin's compostions augmented beautifully with Yes' prog repitorie, and had enough quirk and hook to be truly and fascinatingly listenable. On almost every tune. His ability to write songs that vary in such style and meter, truly make him a master of his trade. I could have easiy chosen the more well known works of 90125, and Big Generator, but I wanted to highlight this gem that was pretty much overlooked. And again overlooked as a prog masterpiece when much of the rock listening public was jamming to Grunge. Talk allowed Babin, to really do some out of the box( normally hate that term) writing, and some of the stuff sounded nothing like prior Yes work. This may be one the most obscure works that I give 5 stars to. I loved it, and was sad that it went so overlooked by the music listening public. Babin is listed as first (lead) in songwriting on every song. This was his baby, and was it ever great. This was Rabin's last time with Yes, but it sure did he seal his legacy in the band.
Fun Fact: Think Rabin was a one hit wonder with his movie sound track creations? Here is a list of some the many movies scores he did you may have heard of... Con Air, Armageddon, Enemy of the State, Jack Frost, Gone in 60 Seconds, Remember the Titans, Rock Star, Bad Company, Texas Rangers, Kangaroo Jack, Glory Road, and many more.
Track
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1- The Calling- Song leads with always awesome harmonizations, and blends into a rocking gem. At the end the band almost creates a bass melotron sound and chordal fade that sounds like nothiing I have heard before from the band. Anderson's vocal fade just give this sound a air of magic. 2
2- I am Waiting- Maybe the most ballad like song on the CD. Sorrowful wailing Babin guitar blends impeccably with Anderson's high tenor so well. This song also has such a nice touch of almost multi-phasic styles. Just when you think the song has taken a full ballad approach, it rocks into standard fare, and then quickly into a semi-funk ditty, and so on. This isn't simple songwriting, this is someone who is among the best at their craft. Babin's ability to make even a single song come across as a symphonic piece is remarkable. 4
3. Real Love- Totally different than anythign else, though it does have that Big Generator feel to in how Babin incorporated the bass into a song that mimics a mechanical process. Props to Squire as always in being able to maintain beat, volume, and meter to match that mechanical feel that Babin wanted on this one. At times this thing has that "thumpy funk" vibe to it. And with again a lot of complex orchestraziation that became his norm. 6
4. State of Play- My favorite song on the album- Somewhat of an anti-ode to Manhattan Project, and nuclear proliferation. Aboslutely beautiful and masterful encompassive chordal progession and as ususal with this album, wirting takes the listener on a tour-de- force of varying musical styles, with so many innovative parts. And I beleive Anderson saw this genious too, as his voice is stronger and truer that in at least 3 or 4 albums. 1
5. Walls- Yes, this is pretty much a C & W slant on this one. But is so damned good. Maybe the most hooked piece on the LP, but of course Babin changes course, and springs some surprises. By now.... You know you've been listening to a masterpiece. I bet Babin had a blast at the end doing the country licks. 5
6. Where Will You Be- Babin is now showing off his South African roots, with an African sounding ballad that mixes complex time and key change signatures in a fantastic matter. This one sounds a lot like what he does on his sound track work. Some of Babin's guitar work almost sounds like Howe, and is understated in the mix, but please don't overlook and enjoy. 7
7.-9. Endless Dream (Suite- Silent Spring, Talk, Endless Dream) I've have grouped this into one, because musically it truly is a suite in pure prog fashion. This one is going to be pretty ambivalent for the fans. I personally have a symphonic streak to me, that recognizes what and how the suite is supposed to be constructed, and delivered. In this 15 minute 3 movement work, I would love to see a true full orchestra score to be applied to the work. It's got the same level of quirk and change as the rest of the album, but intended to be set as a melodic work than rocking. 3
This is one of those rare works without filler. Enjoy.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eAFzyiOgMUo (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eAFzyiOgMUo)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=122Pn-bXk38 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=122Pn-bXk38)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K7qRVCzMB7g (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K7qRVCzMB7g)
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I want to thank you @catfish1957 for reviewing this album. I stopped listening to Yes after 90125, and so had never heard this album before. I thought Changes was the best song on 90125, but I'd actually put some of these songs before any of the other songs on 90125.
I listened to this last night, as you said, Rabin is really the highlight of this album. I thought his guitar work was more lyrical than it was on 90125, and I didn't really miss Howe at all. Anderson also was in top form. I always lean towards tracks that are less straightforward, so my order would probably be Endless Dream, Where Will You Be (reminded me of a softer version of "Teakbois" from ABWH), State of Play, and then the Calling.
As good as Rabin is, I barely heard Kaye on many of the tracks. And I do think Squire was less adventurous himself. I don't know whether that was his choice, or because that's how Rabin wanted the soundstage.
My biggest negative was the drumming. I loved the opening of the Calling until the plodding and unimaginative drumming kicked it, and I thought that was true for much of the album.
This album kind of highlights my issue with Alan White's drumming. I think when the underlying composition is sufficiently "prog" or non-traditional, it forces White out of his rock comfort zone, and he's a pretty good drummer.
But as soon as the band starts to get anywhere close to a straightforward rock song, he either is just lazy, or cannot come up anything interesting. So he basically adds nothing of interest, and just keeps a steady, and usually rather plodding, beat. I shudder to think of what Yours is No Disgrace might have sounded like if White had been the drummer. It's like there isn't a jazzy bone in the guy's body. Which is too bad, because I think a couple of these songs might have gone from "good" to great" (for me) with a more imaginative drummer.
That's why I think the songs with the least traditional structure/sound are the best ones on the album, although my biggest takeaway is Rabin being significantly better than I had remembered.
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Great comments again @Maj. Bill Martin . I fully understand your thoughts around how Babin constructed this LP, and my best thinking is that as an almost classical type composer, these guys focus highly on the instumental volume as it interplays like in a symphony.
I know this is not the normal mode of playing in prog band, and even much less in a rock band. That is why Squire's wizardry was more understated than you would see in a normal Yes album. And percussion? Even more so. I know in high school and college percussionist hated symphonic season, and would call it boring as hell. That's just the how things are. In the most traditonal sumphonic style Endless Dream almost plays like a classical piece in its construction and delivery. When I hear it, I can almost envision Babin expanding the part to the 10-15 instumental sections that make up one.
I do know that this was last album in Yes by Babin, and I really have never read or heard why he left. Maybe the rest of the founding members like Squire and Anderson did not like this approach, and wanted maybe a more democratic distribution of the contributions. I might stand corrected, but I do believe that this was the last collaboration of Babin in a band. Afterwards he pretty much fully focused n composing, mostly scores for movies.
I almost reviewed Union which I also really liked. It sounded so much more like early Yes, and very reminiscent of quite a bit of '70's stuff. Of course, Anderson's style and influence is stamped all over it, and that is not a bad thing.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- The Cars- Self Titled (1978) ****
A point was brought up the other about killing Disco, which I highly celebrated as the stuff had especially gotten awful and degraded into a putrid pile of poo. But what killed it? Besides it's own self destruction?, Honestly it was the advent of new wave that created a whole new genre of music that sounded so much different, but still contained a whole lot of pop sensibility. I think we all remember wearing the style of faded blue jeans, an oxford shirt, with a skinny tie. And ohhh yeah.... don't forget your Rick Ocasek looking sunglasses. I normally didn't care much for works that have that pop intent, but I have to admit I got caught up in the fad. With the new stuff reviewed here with the Car's debut album, and the Police's debut Outlandas d'Amour, a new and fresh approach was brought to the rock equation. So yes, from my own personal POV, New Wave killed Disco. Well that and baseball games at Comisky Park. :cool:
As far as The Cars, I do like this one just a tad less than Candy-O, but there is no denying that this new sound was audacious, and the listening crowd loved it. In fact this was one of the few times in history that i agreed with the Grammy's as far as choice of new act. The talent center of the band resides in their guitar and keyboardist, Rick Ocasek, and Benjamin Orr. And if you listen to the band enough, you can almost guess which one of them writes each. Orr had a more pop, hook centered style, while Ocasek had the patent on quirk. And no one can dispute that part of the beauty and enjoyment of listening to The Cars that they had some of the best vocal harmonies by any rock band at the time.
You will find that this album does have a rougher feel on the production values, vs. say toward Heart Beat City, which employed Mutt Lange's polish. That polish put out some great hits.....and Magic is one my favorities by them. But by then you can tell by then that there was more intrusion that style over substance was creeping into their product. What I do really like about the Cars, versus their other New Wave brethern is that they though they are considered almost creators of the genre, weren't opposed to cranking out some good guitar riffs. And on at least in the pop world, they were among the best of blending that blaring synth-guitar song that was great pop, and a good song, all at the same time.
Sadly, Orr died in 2000, and for all practical purposes, their tenure as a good band ended in '84's effort with Heartbeat City. I don't reccommend their last two efforts at all.
Fun Fact: I was kind of shocked that this was The Cars highest selling album in their discography 6X platinum. It always seemed like the tunes from Candy-O and Heartbeat City had singles that got more airplay.
Side 1-
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Let the Good Times Roll- Introductory song from the Cars show the Ocasek "quirk" right off the bat. Slow rolling synth, with more of the same from the other guys. The Cars were using melodic synth, so much different than anyone at the time, and it pretty much was their halmark. 5
My Best Friend's Girlfriend- Hooky rocking number that exemplifies some of their best harmonies. Song has a nice organ retro sound that harkens to a little like the '60's. But no one in the '60's sounded like this though. Ocasek solo at the end almost has Beatle-esque touch to it too. 4
Just What I Needed- Best song and biggest hit on the LP- One of Orr's best. A great rocking sound that has mashes the synth with a staccato power chord that rocks. And though I may say it repetitively, some awesome vocal harmonizations too. 1
I'm In Touch With Your World- Always thought it was strange for the Cars to place their best and worst songs back to back. But this one pretty much fills the filler department. Yeah, it's Ocasek quirk with random noises , but in the grand scheme it was pretty pointless 9
Don't Cha Stop- Really the most new wave sounding piece on the album. The up and down drum beat, with melodic feel really makes you feel like you are back in 1980. Decent song, but not one of the best. 7
Side 2-
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You Are All I've Got Tonight- Great one that is innovative in its synth infused drum, and very complex inter-melodic lines that really highlighted some of Ocasek's best writing, at least on this LP. What is strange, is that in many ways this sounds more like an Orr song, but ...... 3
Bye Bye Love- Excellent tune by Benjamin Orr. Another example of how he channeled 1960's songwriting style , and made it into New Wave. Love the synth, then guitar soloing at the end. 2
Moving In Stereo- I'm sorry. But I can not listen to this song without the visual of Phoebe Cates taking off her red bikini top in Fast Times at Ridgemont High. Iconic scene to maybe less than an iconic song. 8
All Mixed Up- This one is a real outlier. Kind of a ballad, but almost with the most tradional rocking style. I guess I dock it because it really doesn't feel like it belongs. Maybe the Cars wanted to show or prove they could perfrom the straightforward stuff, but I didn't really care for it- 6
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZTkH1kP_kx4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZTkH1kP_kx4)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Big Country- The Crossing (1983) *** 1/2
This somewhat obscure work will likely not tickle some fancies, but in my case, I think my Scottish ancestry leads me to enjoy this work more than others. Honestly, before looking up some reseach details on this band, I wouldn't have been able to cite even one single member of this band. But this particular group, who pretty much were a one hit album wonder did a really good job on this one.
That Scottish aura is blaringly evident in that they had the ability to innovatively sear their dual wailed guitar sounds to almost come across as bagpipes. I have had day dreams of playing some of these songs from this album at Flodden Field with headphones and soaking in the feeling of knowing 100's of my ancestors died at that site over 500 years ago.
I wouldn't say there is anything spectacular musically with this band or album. but they put together a really good album, very much worth a listen that had tradtional folk Scottish licks that was a nice respite from synth laden stuff that we were being fed in the mid '80's.
Fun Fact: Remember MTV hyping this band as the new Scottish U2. Didn't quite pan out that way.
Side 1-
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In a Big 'Country- Very solid opening tune. Well sung, very traditional with first taste of screaming pipes. The hit, and the video we all remember during the day too. 4
Inwards- Less than stellar number in the mode of the wuss UK bands of the time. Too bad they had to do their Tears for Fears thing. 10
Chance- Beautifully done ballad, and terribly overlooked song from this album. My actual favorite on the LP, as it is done in such a heartful manner, and the ending has such powerful bearutiful chordal runs that really are like icing on the cake. There are not many examples where one like this one is no. 1 for me, but this is the rare one. 1
1000 Stars- Guys try to flex their guitar muscles a bit, but candidly this is not in their wheel house. 8
The Storm- Scottish traditonal folk fare that is pretty good, and a nice closing to side 1- 5
Side 2-
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Harvest Home- Fantastic wailing pipe like guitars highlight a astonishing use of 1/3's in their melodic lines. Not too shabby at all. Very traditonal fare, that has that great Scottish feel to it. 2
Lost patrol- No this one wasn't about 1513 Flodden, but the boys did give homage with a song about the 1745 Jacobite rebellion, which was pretty much the last hurrah of any potential Scottish nationalism. Love historical songs, (yeah love some early '60's Johnny Horton)but they muddle it so badly it is hard to understand. I give it extra points alone though for intent -6
Close Action- This one has some nice guitar work. Decent for sure- 7
Fields of Fire- Another pipe ridden rocker that is excellent. Almost comes across as a battle song, that comes with bonus of simulated cannon fire, and hell I an almost see the Dragoons rushing in bayonets up. Hell Yeah!!!! 3
Porrohman- hard rocking ending number that works on a fair basis. Song seems out of place stylistically, in almost filler fashion. 9
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FNpAbuF7yaI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FNpAbuF7yaI)
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I always got Big Country confused with Tears For Fears.
@catfish1957
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I always got Big Country confused with Tears For Fears.
@catfish1957
True Fred....
A lot of those mid '80's UK wuss bands sound almost exactly the same.... Tears for Fears, Duran Duran, Flock of Seagulls, Spandau Ballet, etc.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Guns and Roses- Appetite for Destruction- (1987) *
In these reviews, I wanted to at least check all the genre boxes, and unfortunately "Hair Band era" is up. '80's Hair Bands are up there with Disco as far as absurdity. There was nothing in the world of rock and roll as redundant and boring as the music made during this time frame.
The so called "apex" band and album of the period was this one. Did it ever sell, and dominate the airwaves. But from my perspective, there was nothing unique or innovative with this shit. Even their huge hits like Paradise City, Welcome to the Jungle, and Sweet Child of Mine added nothing of value, and really were rehash riffs and runs that have been done a million times by hard rock bands of the '70's. And a lead guitarist hiding his eyes while playing? Page was doing that 20 years earlier. And worst of all, and I know this isn't music related, is their and their ilk's bringing tatoos to the mainstream. I'm sorry.... Unless you are a bad ass biker, sailor, or marine, there really isn't much reason to turn your body into a permanent canvass. It should be a crime for a beautiful woman to ink. It's like alowing Bansky go to the Louve, and adding his grafitti to the Mona Lisa.
But back to the music.... If this is the "apex" this era has to offer the entire realm of Rock and Roll, that is a sad commentary indeed. And after sitting listening to this for almost an hour, I am not going to even bother giving the run down of the content. If you are so inclined,have at it ..... linked below. And if you think I am off centered here in my criticism of GNR and Hair bands.... let me know.
Sorry, if I angered any of their fans out there, but IMO.... This band sucks.
Fun Fact: Or maybe un-fun. In 2018 Axl Rose was allowed to join and tour with AC DC for the final legs of their tour while Brian Johnson recovered from illness. Terrible choice.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zpo9GZt43BU (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zpo9GZt43BU)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Trapeze- Medusa (1970) ***
There was a period on the very very late 1960's and early early 1970's that bands like Trapeze, Humble Pie, and Free got a lot of justified airplay that took the bluezzz/hard rocking sound to the mainstream... Well mainstream outside the legends, like Zep, Creme, others. Today this band is almost totally forgotten, but they put together some very competent albums in the day, that have actually aged pretty well. Admittedly, some of the album you are about to hear, does have that "Spinal Tap" sound and feel, and it really captured the feel of rock and roll of the times.
Maybe the biggest claim to fame of Trapeze is that one of their founders Glenn Hughes went on to bigger things later with stints with Deep Purple and Black Sabbath. Pretty impressive metal pedigree if you ask me. And of course Trapeze was at its best musically and creatively during the Hughes era. Including this album. Of course other members were not really slouches either as some did time with Judas Priets, and White Snake.
Yes, this is a good group, and a good album, but I really think that the collaboartion of the members did not have that oomph in songwriting pizazz that propelled them to household name status. Even back then. Now though, as stated earlier, I would guess that some of you have either never heard of them, or at worst forgotten them. Too bad, and after listening to this album, I think you will see why.
Fun Fact: Album was under the Threshold Label. Threshold? Hmmm... Like Threshold of a Dream. Yes this was the Moody Blues label, and this particular album by Trapeze was produced by Moody Blues bassist John Lodge. What the hell huh.... Yeah, the Moody's were that musically diverse and talented. It also should be noted that Threshold supposedly almost signed Geneisis early on too. Just think how that may have changed musical history.
Side 1-
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Black Cloud- Easily Trapeze's signature song, and an epic blues, rocker. Great power chordal riffing that highlghted that time of about 1970. Also has that signature raspy blues sound that you often got from (again...) Free and Humble Pie. Nice drum fills that kind of gets overlooked on it too. No telling how big Trapeze could have become, if they could have captured what they did on this tune, and translated it into an entire album, with some diverse innovation. 1
Jury- Visions of Spinal Tap.... Subdued ballad beginning blending into mediocre Black Sabbath like repetitive chording. All that was missing in this song was the 3 foot stonehenge. Formulaic filler. 6
Your Love is Alright- Good blues number with a touch of funk. Only complaint is that seem to be recycling some licks from Black Cloud. I can see sometimes having some similarity of a few songs maybe a few albums apart. But on the same side of the same album? Come on guys, give the crowd a reason to say that all your stuff doesn't sound alike. 3
Side 2-
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Touch My Life- Band tries another approach that really has a southern rock blues feel. Nothing spectacular, but I kind of liked it 5
Seafull- You knew the band would have to include one true blues number, and this was the one. Vocals are awful, almost like a an off key Ian Gilligan. Don't know if was intentional, but not good one for the band's sound. Blues riffing is decent, but not enough to redeem any songwriting quality of it. Ugh. 7
Makes You Want to Cry- Sounds like they sampled the side melodic line from Come Together from the Beatles.... Which since this was almost the same time, I am floored they weren't dissed for it. Decent song, but at least don't take full songwriting credit for it. Does have some of Hughes best bass lines of the LP though. 4
Medusa- Starts and stops and starts as silly balladry, and maybe the worst thing 2-3 minutes Hughes ever put on vinyl. Sound does start rocking, but again seems rehashed, but rocks like hell. Kind of like the mythical Medusa, with many heads. Some awesome, some suck. 2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k-h57LD15ow (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k-h57LD15ow)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Willie Nelson- Red Headed Stranger- (1975) ***
Now off the rails, yeah I am reviewing a Country album. Not as much as if it is a country album, but this was the point in musical history where crossover began. I will have to admit, that growing up, I had a pretty much a dislike of the twangy country that we were subjected to. The musical purist in me could not find that much merit in substance with the genre that thrived on repetitive meter, but like with all music, a lot has to do with taste. And I understand that, and that is no disresepct to you hard core Country fans.
But before digressing further.....
In 1975, a remarkable thing happened. A voice, albeit an old one came up with a concept album that infused some soulful, and clean beautiful classical guitar that in many ways combined the charm and story telling of Guthrie, Dylan, with lick of a rough edged Jim Reeves.
And suddenly the outlaw movement was born, but none of the subsequent stuff ever came as close of capturing the magic of this nice piece of work by Mr. Nelson. Willie's ability go verberate his strings while infusing a intentional nasal vocal style was very endearinig, and made many of us to start understanding and recognizing our country, old west, and Appalachian roots that we had so many turned our backs on while embracing rock and roll. I still occasionally listen to some C & W, but nothing since this has captured the imagination of the music industry. It is timeless.
I am not going to review tune by tune, as I mentioned earlier this is a concept album, that is really just a story that reads like an old west novel or movie. Also listening to just one side is a diservice. Album is a remarkable mix of hymns, covers, traditional old time tunes, and originals that are almost all worth a listen. The entire C & W industry including Garth Brooks up to Taylor Swift should Willie their lucky stars for resurrecting the genre in the 1970's. This is a fun album to relax to on a nice afternoon with a cold beer.
Fun Fact: As ground breaking and iconic as Red Headed Stranger was, Nelson had three other albums that sold more. Wayon and Wille, Stardust, and Always on my Mind.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=50fLJcJIKZc (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=50fLJcJIKZc)
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Willie is in a category all his own, imho, @catfish1957 . I listen to c & w and most music except rap or opera.* Willie is a great lyricist. Although his voice isn't conventional by any means, it's pretty interesting and good to listen to.
I went to a Farm Aid concert that he sponsored that featured artists from a large spectrum of genres. Willie played along with every one of them. It was a 12 hour event and he put Jerry Lewis on his telethons to shame as far as keeping up,lol. I don't know if you have ever seen a picture of his guitar, but there is a hole worn in it.
*I'm not real good on heavy metal or a lot of the bands from the 80s...Rush, Yes, The Cars. I may like a song or two. My brother, the musician in our family, loves those groups. I'm sure I'm just not sophisticated enough to appreciate the complexity of their music. But I still enjoy the reviews!
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Willie is in a category all his own, imho, @catfish1957 . I listen to c & w and most music except rap or opera.* Willie is a great lyricist. Although his voice isn't conventional by any means, it's pretty interesting and good to listen to.
I went to a Farm Aid concert that he sponsored that featured artists from a large spectrum of genres. Willie played along with every one of them. It was a 12 hour event and he put Jerry Lewis on his telethons to shame as far as keeping up,lol. I don't know if you have ever seen a picture of his guitar, but there is a hole worn in it.
*I'm not real good on heavy metal or a lot of the bands from the 80s...Rush, Yes, The Cars. I may like a song or two. My brother, the musician in our family, loves those groups. I'm sure I'm just not sophisticated enough to appreciate the complexity of their music. But I still enjoy the reviews!
Thanks....
Congratulations on being able to see Willie at Farm Aid. Willie was truly able to assemble some of the most eclectric mixes of artists at his fund raising events.
Willie does have that unmistaken voice that instantly harkens his persona, much like Elvis, and Michael Jackson did. I do not listem or understand the C & W genre as much as many. But I can recognize talent, and Mr. Nelson is up there in his arena.
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Thanks....
Congratulations on being able to see Willie at Farm Aid. Willie was truly able to assemble some of the most eclectric mixes of artists at his fund raising events.
Willie does have that unmistaken voice that instantly harkens his persona, much like Elvis, and Michael Jackson did. I do not listem or understand the C & W genre as much as many. But I can recognize talent, and Mr. Nelson is up there in his arena.
@catfish1957
It's not just the songs he wrote and recorded. He wrote a LOT of songs that were recorded and became hits by what were then "mainstream" singers.
"Crazy" by Patsy Cline may be the most famous. I would be very surprised if it wasn't played today on some radio station,somewhere.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Synergy- Sequencer (1976) *** 1/2
Todays selection is really obscure and isolated to a pretty small population of audiophiles. It also focused on more of the technological aspects of synth and how it changed music. Synergy is Larry Fast, who was a pioneer of proliferation of synth as a media for music. Obviously he was not the first. Variations on the mellotron had been inclusive in some rock music as far back as mid 1960's Moody Blues and the Beatles. Michael Pinder, and people like Keith Emerson and Rick Wakeman took that concept, and used it on a prehistoric basis. But when it came to taking the concept and then exponentially exploding it? Here is the guy.
Fast was a true pioneer of creating electronic musicusing technology and innovation that had never been used before. This blurb from his web site gives a good idea and run down of how he created the sound which as he describes as an 150 piece orchrestra. He took his classical traiing, and really pre-historic like knowledge of computers, and changed music history. These websites give excellent details, and I really highly recommend reading before proceeding with a listen.
http://synergy-emusic.com/erro.html#ANSWERS%20TO%20THE%20MOST-ASKED%20QUESTIONS%20ABOUT%20THE%20EQUIPMENT%20USED: (http://synergy-emusic.com/erro.html#ANSWERS%20TO%20THE%20MOST-ASKED%20QUESTIONS%20ABOUT%20THE%20EQUIPMENT%20USED:)
http://synergy-emusic.com/sequencer.html (http://synergy-emusic.com/sequencer.html)
Well, his innovation peaked the interest of Rick Wakeman, and was hired to help with Yes' mastepiece Tales of Topographical Oceans. This allowed him to nab a record deal, and he made 11 albums, and the 1st 2 Actually cracked the Top 200. Which was a pretty amazaing feat considering the narrow appeal of his work. Of those 2, this is my favorite. It takes a nice mix of some of his own compositions and some classical ones that are breathtakingly innovative for the time. Don't forget this is from 1976, and predating the entire personal computer era. Sadly, Fast like many others have been forgotten for their contributions. I hope this revives some interest and understanding of how and what some of the unsung pioneers did to make what music what it became.
Fun Fact: Fast did a 10 year stint with Peter Gabriel in playing and production for a chunk of his solo work. Others included Yes, Foreigner, Bonnie Tyler, and Tony Levin
Side 1-
S-Scape- The really highlight of the album, and Fast's own masterpiece. The blend of all of his instrumentalization is truly an etheral experience. I spent many a moment in College with the head phones on, absorbing the experience. The fact these were generated computer sounds outside the norm of a straight mello was amazing. This was an orchestra without players, and every bit as talented, tuned, and impactful as any other philomonic moment in space. Except with computers. S-Scape really starts to shine at the 4:00 mark, with some truly crazy electronic blending and mixing. 1
Chateau- Another fine foray into electronic harpischord like 18th century feeling work. Still another really good compostion. 5
Cybersports- Of course, more electronic wizardry of the highest order, though in compostion is one of the weaker ones on the LP 6
Classical Gas- Everyone has heard this one on an accoustical guitar a million times, but Fast's version and take on the "classic" is really amazing. Synth blends are impecciably crisp, precise and poignantly strong. 4
Side 2-
--------------
Paradox (a)- Largo- New World Symphony- Fast takes on the ambitious task of taking Dvorak's 1893 9th symphony, 2nd movement and creates an astonishing amazing adaptation that just might give you goose bumps. The symphonic geek in me just loves this. The electronic chimes veilly way in the background give a spooky feel of a church bell dozens of miles away. Incredible piece of interpretation. 2
Paradox (b)- Icarus- Much more obscure of a piece at the time, and not much more added as content. There are other works on the album that are far more superior. 7
Sequencer 14- I'd play this one for my stoner friends back in the day, and they'd claim they had out of body experiences. :silly: In all seriousness this is electronic wizardry at its sci-fi best. 1976? Damn!!!! This is 15 minutes of an electronic trip of a lifetime. At least it did at the time. 3
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8bywvgMrEx4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8bywvgMrEx4)
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How powerful was the Trevor Rabin era in Yes? I found this compliation (bootleg I guess) recently. Have had it on loop for days now.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zrthdnsRYx4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zrthdnsRYx4)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Willie Nelson- Red Headed Stranger- (1975) ***
Now off the rails, yeah I am reviewing a Country album. Not as much as if it is a country album, but this was the point in musical history where crossover began. I will have to admit, that growing up, I had a pretty much a dislike of the twangy country that we were subjected to. The musical purist in me could not find that much merit in substance with the genre that thrived on repetitive meter, but like with all music, a lot has to do with taste. And I understand that, and that is no disresepct to you hard core Country fans.
But before digressing further.....
In 1975, a remarkable thing happened. A voice, albeit an old one came up with a concept album that infused some soulful, and clean beautiful classical guitar that in many ways combined the charm and story telling of Guthrie, Dylan, with lick of a rough edged Jim Reeves.
And suddenly the outlaw movement was born, but none of the subsequent stuff ever came as close of capturing the magic of this nice piece of work by Mr. Nelson. Willie's ability go verberate his strings while infusing a intentional nasal vocal style was very endearinig, and made many of us to start understanding and recognizing our country, old west, and Appalachian roots that we had so many turned our backs on while embracing rock and roll. I still occasionally listen to some C & W, but nothing since this has captured the imagination of the music industry. It is timeless.
I am not going to review tune by tune, as I mentioned earlier this is a concept album, that is really just a story that reads like an old west novel or movie. Also listening to just one side is a diservice. Album is a remarkable mix of hymns, covers, traditional old time tunes, and originals that are almost all worth a listen. The entire C & W industry including Garth Brooks up to Taylor Swift should Willie their lucky stars for resurrecting the genre in the 1970's. This is a fun album to relax to on a nice afternoon with a cold beer.
Fun Fact: As ground breaking and iconic as Red Headed Stranger was, Nelson had three other albums that sold more. Wayon and Wille, Stardust, and Always on my Mind.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=50fLJcJIKZc (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=50fLJcJIKZc)
@catfish1957
Just looking at the cover you posted, and my mind instantly just went into the lyrics, on autopilot, "The red-headed stranger, from Blue Rock, Montana, rode into town one day..."
:cool:
Willie Nelson is probably my biggest YouTube search, just the variety and catlogue alone are pretty staggering.
Seem him live more than a few times.
Think the last time I paid a whole 10 dollars to see him at the Ford Bend County fair, several years back.
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@catfish1957
It's not just the songs he wrote and recorded. He wrote a LOT of songs that were recorded and became hits by what were then "mainstream" singers.
"Crazy" by Patsy Cline may be the most famous. I would be very surprised if it wasn't played today on some radio station,somewhere.
The 70's were a strange, wonderful time, for Texas music.
Willie and Waylon, the outlaw country movement, Ray Wylie Hubbard, Jerry Jeff Walker, Gary P. Nunn, Townes VanZant, Etc, Etc,...
I could go on.
Bikers, Hippies, Rednecks, Cowboys, Plant workers, all getting together.
"Beer Drinkers and Hell Raisers" to be sure.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Van Halen- Self Titled (1978) ** 1/2
I have always really liked Van Halen's music. There is no underestimating EVH's guitar wizardry, and how it changed hard rock in the late 1970's. I have been late to the game with a review, because as legendary as this band is, I always was disappointed that every one of their LP's was at least half filler. Their great songs were great, but their covers, and secondary tunes, always seemed less than inspiring. VH did not make one entirely great album their entire career. This is the eptitome, and kind of band that you always will come out better with one of their compliatons. And of their two Greatest Hits efforts, I recommend the '04 version, as it contains a comprehensive review of their career.
As everyone knows, the focal point of the band is EVH, and his absolutely revolutionary tapping and ultra fast neck work and solos. I can honestly say that there is no one else who had sounded like EVH before or after. His style was unique, and there was no doubt who was playing when a tune hit the radio. The band also had a strong focus on the front man, who in their controversy spawned maybe the most voluminous debate in rock and roll history...... Dave or Sammy. Personally I prefered Hagar, but VH's actual best albums I & II, featured Roth. I think these first two were so different and innovative for the time, that they at least get the nod from me, for just pure rock and roll value alone. By the 3rd album, I think their personas were interferring in the content. They never were great songwriters, but I think the commerical aspects were adversly impacting the product. And Roth was absolutely obnoxous in every respect. To me a clown, that cheapened their brand.
One of my biggest disppointments of the Hagar era, was that EVH did not allow Sammy to weld the ax. Hagar was a great guitarist in his rights with Montrose and his solo days. My guess that with a guitar in hand, and singing that Hagar might have gotten just a little too much spotlight square footage. I don't have proof of that, but it was always my suspicion. And it did seem EVH has a pretty sizable ego.
With that, I am picking their first album to review, mostly just for innovation. But again, a warning, once you get past the good stuff, the rest is filler. Sadly EVH passed in '20. He was a guitar legend, especially to a new generation of rock fans who saw Page, Clapton, and Beck as the "old guys"
Fun Fact: In guitar terms, EVH was the ultimate loyalist. As far as I know, I don't think he ever used anything else but Stratocasters and his own home made variatons of the Strat.
Side 1
-------------
Runnin' With the Devil- One of the great VH tune's indeed. His power chords and taps blasted this band onto the scene. Enough decent harmoneis, and searing solos made this an intro to remember - 2
Eruption- Maybe one of the most famous instrmental guitar runs of all time. And honestly the last time the rock community had gotten this excited about one partucular ax man's magic was a guy named Hendrix. 3
You Really Got Me- Decent cover of the old Kinks tune- Crying searing guitar worked pretty well. 4
Ain't Talkin' About Love- Easily one of the top 3 VH tunes ever made. Anthony was really never that great of a bassist, but in this one he nicely agument (and EVH's brother for that matter) a nice bass line that resulted in a great classic rock song. Heavist and most rocking number on the LP- 1
I'm the One- I'm the One- Side one ends in pedestrian fashion. Sure EVH's guitar sears, but not a good one for sure. 8
Side 2-
---------------
Jamie's Cryin'- VH tries a little bit more of a blues slant, ..... nope. 9
Atomic Punk- Wizardry, nothing else. 6
Feel Your Love Tonight- Sounds a lot a like of what was coming out of the AOR thing in the mid 1970's. You can see that three songs in, that Side 2, has been pretty much been a waste of your $6 at the record store. 7
Little Dreamer- Yawn. 10
Ice Creme Man- Silly blues remake. ARGHHHHH!!!!!!!! 11
On Fire- The best of Side 2, which isn't saying much. By this point, you realize the band had 3 or 4 really good songs, and the record company allowed the balance the filled with uninspiring shit. Yeah, the VH hits were awesome, but by all means, get the compliation sets. You won't regret that, versus buying any single LP or CD. 5
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=REtGa3L0XXg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=REtGa3L0XXg)
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I had one YES album... I wasn't much of a rock fan to be honest, but it got it's share of rotation. I thought the "Leave It" song was brilliant though.
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I distinctly remember the first time I heard the debut VH album. The opening notes to Running with The Devil were life-changing. happy77
Thanks for the review of their best album. VH II was next best and after that, yuck.
Sammy is a better singer than DLR, but not nearly the showman. I saw VH in concert the summer of 1979. They were at their prime.
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Loved VH in high school, and still like their stuff, but I have to admit that, in terms of vocals, I'm firmly in the DLR camp. Never could get used to Hagar's voice in that context. I will admit, though, that DLR was clearly a clown, and I can see how that behavior, and him getting too full of himself, destroyed the original chemistry of the band.
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Oh, I think DLR was a much better fit (vocally) for what VH needed. But Sammy Hagar’s voice is better technically.
The release of that first Van Halen album pretty much put a stake in the heart of any leftover disco leanings. Good riddance!
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Know I have been on a Yes kick lately, but wanted to share a video that contained maybe the greatest colelction of all the available members all at once in one video. The reunion clip amazingly includes:
Anderson
Howe
Wakeman
Bruford
Rabin
Kaye
Squire
White
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rzD4m17exRA&list=RDrzD4m17exRA&start_radio=1 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rzD4m17exRA&list=RDrzD4m17exRA&start_radio=1)
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Classic
Rock Album of the Day- Beethoven's 5th Symphony- Berlin Philharmonic - Herbert von Karajan Conductor (1966)
Okay, one last one off the rock and roll rails. Today I am covering what in my opinion is the one greatest piece of music composed in human history. With the maestros of Mozart and Beethoven did between 1770 and 1825 contianed the greatest half century classical work.
This particular piece is very special in that it is conducted and performed by the greats of the time too. Karajan has been kind of scrubbed from history since he was a Nazi sympathizer. But there is no doubt, outside that, there was no one greater in at least recording history in interpreting the masters. I hope when you watch these clips you clue into the concentration, the emotion, the intensity, and the full emuslsion of being part of what constitute the Borg in Star Trek Terms. When all member are in full intonation with each other, it is truly like a collective. For those who have experienced this, you know how powerful it is.
The Symphony is broken into four movements, each distinct in channeling Beethoven's genius. I personally am not going to embarass myself and critique Beethoven for a a number of reasons. (1) This work has been dissected, and analyzed many many times by expertise and knowledge of far more knowledgeable than I. Not in my pay grade some would say. (2) Even though I have had symphonic experience in high school and college, there are things that are more complex and obtuse inducing for someone whose experience is just with band, say vs those in a professional orchestral setting. and (3) Listening to the 5th, 9th, and several other moving works I tend to hear something different and interpret it different every time. A lot of it depends on mood and how deeply you immerse yourself into the listen. I used to give the equalizer on my stereo a work out on my classical LP's.
I know this might be a sparsley visited reivew and clip, and some might just remember this stuff from Huntley and Brinkley (9th), or other of the famed works, but if I can just get one person to open their mind and again "immerse" their open audiophile synapses to this, I think it will be well worth it.
Each clip below corresponds to the 4 movements of the symphony. Let me know what you think. If the 4th movement gave you chills, I think you might have got it.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VeXhtWIXOvo (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VeXhtWIXOvo)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m7B_F7_wlpY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m7B_F7_wlpY)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w5LINDpY8Qk (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w5LINDpY8Qk)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hmQ-IXVsG8E (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hmQ-IXVsG8E)
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Interesting review. It's one of the most recognizable pieces of classical music, imho. And very complex in composition. It's always been amazing to me that a person can hear the music in their head, translate it into musical scribe...and have it come out sounding like it does. Of course, this is true of all genres but most especially orchestral.
(Vivaldi fan here :laugh:)
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Interesting review. It's one of the most recognizable pieces of classical music, imho. And very complex in composition. It's always been amazing to me that a person can hear the music in their head, translate it into musical scribe...and have it come out sounding like it does. Of course, this is true of all genres but most especially orchestral.
(Vivaldi fan here :laugh:)
This and some of the similar compositiions are what I give people of what most some of the compellling proof of God. The ability to extract from the randomness of neural patterns to be able to construct something this complex and beautiful could only take the divine intervention of a diety.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- The Beach Boys- Pet Sounds- 1966 ** 1/2
Today is a beloved classic album, that just from my POV, isn't in my wheelhouse. Don't let my own personal rating fool you. This is a masterfully written, performed, produced, and presented LP in the highest degree. Production values as far ahead of their time of 1966. Today in respect is a matter of taste over substance. In the realm of rock, this is many ways a flawless album of those who are into this kind of music. This is acknowldeged as some of the most epic pop made in the 1960's. I will grant that. Even in some circles there are some who feel that this is one of the first prog albums. I can agree in concept, but not in sound or '60's meter.
This album is also very important in that this was the first major salvo fired from our side of the pond vs. in what had been a Beatles/ Stones/ The Who driven British Invasion. Though they were obviously substandard to the Beatles in song writing. (Everyone was) they sure took production to an easy par. Where they Brit boys did the Mod, these guys over here were formulating surfer music to a level of massive success. Many seem to forget that The Beach Boys predated the Beatles as far as making records by almost half a year.
Again the hallmark of this album is creation of perfect pop melodies, and harmonies that are hauntingly pitiched perfect. There are sounds made on this LP that brought experimental variation, much and a lot how Sgt. Peppers did. And if you view how the critics see this album, both again like I mentioned earlier are "universally loved" In many ways this one of the most hooked albums ever made too. Which is why you hear so many of these on movie soundtracks. This album massively screams mid 1960's. And don't get me wrong either, there is a lot of complexity in the arrangements and orchestratizations that show this was a massively epic undertaking. And it some respect, it was a one shot at immortality, as though The Beach Boys made very many more agressively ambitious albums, nothing ever came this close.
Fun Fact: Critics and Fans initially apparently were puzzled by this off the wall and "so different" direction by the band. For a album considering by many as one of the 10 greatest ever made, it only peaked at #10 on the Billboard LP charts during '66
Side 1-
---------------
Wouldn't It Be Nice- Maybe the most well known on the album, and by the band in general. Pop Classic. 2
You Still Believe In Me- Harpischord and Music Box sounding Love Song that works well on many levels- 4
That's Not Me- More of he familiar fare of the BB's. Fabulous harmonies. Don't really care for the song, but have to admire the talent in it though. 7
Dont Talk- Balladry in soft BB style. More superior production, very nice orchestrations, If you are like soft talented pop, this is it. Me , no. (8-12)
I'm Waiting for the Day- See above (8-12)
Sloop John B- Another very well known hit of their, and my favorite on the LP. Incredibly hooked ditty that. Very few in the day and since, have been able to pull off 3-part lead singing like this. There are some sounds that they create in the bass line, I am not sure how was created. This is one of those tunes, that get stuck in your head the rest of the day. 1
Side 2-
-------------
God Only Knows- Almost Beatle sounding form the same era. Full lush orchestratizations, and nonsensical after vocals that are familar on BB stuff. 5
I Know There's an Answer- Unique orchestrazations with almost sureeal sounding psychadelic underpinning, all supporting tradional BB pop. 6
Here Today- See above (part 2). Obviously not filler, but melodic talented niceties can be repetitive too. (8-12)
I Just Wasn't Made for These Times- See above (part 3). I hope their fans realize this is not a diss, but unlike the Beatles, this stuff's "before my time" appeal just isn't there. My kids say the same thing about some of my 1970's stuff. (8-12)
Pet Sounds- Title Track- Very interesting and experimental instrumental number that at times has that early 1960's feel. Very contemporary sound that seems almost like what would be made if someone did a psychedelic number in about 1958-1960. 3
Caroline, No.- See above (part 4). Pleasant, but light on the innovative side versus the rest of the album. (8-12)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mh_yhTyae08 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mh_yhTyae08)
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The 70's were a strange, wonderful time, for Texas music.
Willie and Waylon, the outlaw country movement, Ray Wylie Hubbard, Jerry Jeff Walker, Gary P. Nunn, Townes VanZant, Etc, Etc,...
I could go on.
Bikers, Hippies, Rednecks, Cowboys, Plant workers, all getting together.
"Beer Drinkers and Hell Raisers" to be sure.
Remember in either '79 or '80 making a trip to 6th Street for some music and saw a bad ass guitaritst that was doing some massive crazy ax blues work. Didn't give it much thought to a friend of mine got an album of his a few years later, and when I saw it, I remember telling him.... I saw that dude ..... He sounded like Hendrix on stage.
That's my SRV story.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Beethoven's 5th Symphony- Berlin Philharmonic - Herbert von Karajan Conductor (1966)
Each clip below corresponds to the 4 movements of the symphony. Let me know what you think. If the 4th movement gave you chills, I think you might have got it.
I have a folder (and it is not super stuffed full of songs like my other folders) of classical music... It perhaps has 200 songs and a few sub folders of music that I file in the "classical" but they often are soundtrack music and more modern instrumental music. I enjoy the music often because when I listen to music I like breathers between my more active songs. I find myself really loving the classics, but not so much that I can listen to it constantly. I like to make disks of music to listen to in my shed while I whittle away at some project, but I put a lot of classical songs and put the disk on random play. So one minute I am belting out an 80s song, the next I am soaking up a lovely violin section of a classic. It works for me... but to be honest, I had never heard the 4th movement of Beethoven before you posted it... It was ok, I just prefer the first movement I guess.
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Loved VH in high school, and still like their stuff, but I have to admit that, in terms of vocals, I'm firmly in the DLR camp. Never could get used to Hagar's voice in that context. I will admit, though, that DLR was clearly a clown, and I can see how that behavior, and him getting too full of himself, destroyed the original chemistry of the band.
My very first concert. They came to Duluth in 1979
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Derek and the Dominos- Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs- 1970 ****
Today we really put the classic in classic rock. This goody is widely accepted as one of the greatest blues rock LP's of all time. Though I only give this 4 stars, that is just I am not the blue-ist purist many others are. From genre greatness, this is not only 5 stars, but the bar of all blues- rock play. Many times I have lauded how much I enjoy the wailing, dueling guitars that peppered the rock landscape in the late 1960's to mid 1970's. No one did this better than the tandem of Eric Clapton and Duane Allman. What is also great about this collaboration is that Clapton allowed some southern rock infused infusion that just gave this album a magical feel. Other members including Gordon, Dave Mason, Bobby Whitlock pretty much made this what was the configuation of a super group. And of course this is Clapton in his prime. And in true rock tragedy fashion this band only made this one album, due the loss of Duanne Allman to a motorcycle crash in 1971.
I have a friend who is the ultimate blues enthusiast who gives reverence to this LP the same as Sargent Peppers in terms of how it changed landscape as far as how blues were presented in not only to a wider audience, but the same dual interplay that I will have to admit has not be replicated since. Yes Creme had Blues roots, but this one reached down in the heart and gave it it's voice. Don't shoot me, but I always seem to enjoy blues in small doses. But if there was one to get the full splash, this is the one. And finally.... The song Layla, is among the greatest rock tunes ever made. From the opening riff, and wailing dual jamming..... Plus some of the most sorrowful searing beautiful instrumental balladry of the era.
As great as this album is, if Clapton had halved the effort and put the 7 or 8 best songs on one LP, he would have had an epic of the ages. Back in 1970, there was kind of an Artist status symbol that if you were in that upper tier, you had or were given the "artistic" freedom to over-exubeate and show that off. Maybe the most extreme I guess, was ELP's live album a few years later that was a "triple album" So with the extended play, I will have to admit, there are a select few on this I would move to the filler category.
Fun Fact: Bizarre- Album did not chart in the UK, until a re-issue in 2011. I can remember way back, that even the lack of U.S. success was fan anger at Clapton for disbanding Creme. Not sure, but that was the rumour.
Side 1-
-------------
I looked Away- Excellent country tinged blues kind of rocker- Listener is treated not only to the Clapton-Allman duets, not only on the ax, but on vocals. These two really clicked, not only on this one, but most of the rest of the album too. Song does have kind of an Allman Brothers feel to it too. 5
Bell Botton Blues- Widely known hit. Not as big as you know who, but balladry of the highest order. 2
Keep On Growing- Bo Diddley kind of number, with that sync -blues style that also was seem often on AB's albums too 6
Nobody Knows When You Are Down and Out- 1920's remake and Bahluzzze. This one is just for the those into that. 12
Side 2-
------------
I am Yours- Sap. and pointless. Remember my comment about this double album being one album too long. 13
Any Day- Decent rocker, and another that harkens to more AB's style than Creme 8
Key To the Highway- Blues in Chicago style, and another cover. Really like the inter-blues working between the two (Clapton-Allman)., but 9 minutes worth? 9
Side 3-
------------
Tell the Truth- One of the stronger rockers on the album that works the blues licks in some really nice ways. Love the way the guys almost sing over each other in well taylored manner. This was innovative to be sure.- 7
Why Does Love Have to Be So Sad- Sped up rocking and blues based song, that harkens upward to a lot of how Clapton sounded in future work. Some really good rock soloing, and the best bass work on either LP. 4
Have You Ever Loved a Woman- Now for some deep crying in your beer blues. Clapton really channels the old black Memphis blues sound like no one else this white. But, I am at this point, about bluezed-out. 11
Side 4-
--------------
Little Wing- So eery that this was recorded within a few weeks of Hendrix' death. I am sure that thought gave the band the heebie-jeebies. Love this rendition, and its interpretation is so much more complicated and expansive than Hendrix's. But leave it to Clapton to take a 2 minute song, and turn it into a 5 minute more grandiose product. Both songs have their merit and I like them both for different reasons. 3
It's Too Late- Nice homage and cover to Willis' 50's rockabilly-blues 10
Layla- I seriously doubt that if you are over 50, you have not heard this absolutel classic on the radio. This is truly one of the greatest songs of that era, and epic on every level. If you have never listened to this album, or heard of this tune, I strongly hope you will take a listen. It defines the times. This song has some of the best dualing guitar work ever made. Also maybe the most famous song ever made around a love triangle too. 1
Thorn Tree in the Garden- Album(s) end weakly with a Whitlock writtne and (yuk) sung number- Sappy, crappy, and pointless. Remember the awful guy singing on the stairs in Animal House? You get the picture. 14
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ll5Y9xvuCEU (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ll5Y9xvuCEU)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Derek and the Dominos- Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs- 1970 ****
Today we really put the classic in classic rock. This goody is widely accepted as one of the greatest blues rock LP's of all time. Though I only give this 4 stars, that is just I am not the blue-ist purist many others are. From genre greatness, this is not only 5 stars, but the bar of all blues- rock play. Many times I have lauded how much I enjoy the wailing, dueling guitars that peppered the rock landscape in the late 1960's to mid 1970's. No one did this better than the tandem of Eric Clapton and Duane Allman. What is also great about this collaboration is that Clapton allowed some southern rock infused infusion that just gave this album a magical feel. Other members including Gordon, Dave Mason, Bobby Whitlock pretty much made this what was the configuation of a super group. And of course this is Clapton in his prime. And in true rock tragedy fashion this band only made this one album, due the loss of Duanne Allman to a motorcycle crash in 1971.
I have a friend who is the ultimate blues enthusiast who gives reverence to this LP the same as Sargent Peppers in terms of how it changed landscape as far as how blues were presented in not only to a wider audience, but the same dual interplay that I will have to admit has not be replicated since. Yes Creme had Blues roots, but this one reached down in the heart and gave it it's voice. Don't shoot me, but I always seem to enjoy blues in small doses. But if there was one to get the full splash, this is the one. And finally.... The song Layla, is among the greatest rock tunes ever made. From the opening riff, and wailing dual jamming..... Plus some of the most sorrowful searing beautiful instrumental balladry of the era.
As great as this album is, if Clapton had halved the effort and put the 7 or 8 best songs on one LP, he would have had an epic of the ages. Back in 1970, there was kind of an Artist status symbol that if you were in that upper tier, you had or were given the "artistic" freedom to over-exubeate and show that off. Maybe the most extreme I guess, was ELP's live album a few years later that was a "triple album" So with the extended play, I will have to admit, there are a select few on this I would move to the filler category.
Fun Fact: Bizarre- Album did not chart in the UK, until a re-issue in 2011. I can remember way back, that even the lack of U.S. success was fan anger at Clapton for disbanding Creme. Not sure, but that was the rumour.
Side 1-
-------------
I looked Away- Excellent country tinged blues kind of rocker- Listener is treated not only to the Clapton-Allman duets, not only on the ax, but on vocals. These two really clicked, not only on this one, but most of the rest of the album too. Song does have kind of an Allman Brothers feel to it too. 5
Bell Botton Blues- Widely known hit. Not as big as you know who, but balladry of the highest order. 2
Keep On Growing- Bo Diddley kind of number, with that sync -blues style that also was seem often on AB's albums too 6
Nobody Knows When You Are Down and Out- 1920's remake and Bahluzzze. This one is just for the those into that. 12
Side 2-
------------
I am Yours- Sap. and pointless. Remember my comment about this double album being one album too long. 13
Any Day- Decent rocker, and another that harkens to more AB's style than Creme 8
Key To the Highway- Blues in Chicago style, and another cover. Really like the inter-blues working between the two (Clapton-Allman)., but 9 minutes worth? 9
Side 3-
------------
Tell the Truth- One of the stronger rockers on the album that works the blues licks in some really nice ways. Love the way the guys almost sing over each other in well taylored manner. This was innovative to be sure.- 7
Why Does Love Have to Be So Sad- Sped up rocking and blues based song, that harkens upward to a lot of how Clapton sounded in future work. Some really good rock soloing, and the best bass work on either LP. 4
Have You Ever Loved a Woman- Now for some deep crying in your beer blues. Clapton really channels the old black Memphis blues sound like no one else this white. But, I am at this point, about bluezed-out. 11
Side 4-
--------------
Little Wing- So eery that this was recorded within a few weeks of Hendrix' death. I am sure that thought gave the band the heebie-jeebies. Love this rendition, and its interpretation is so much more complicated and expansive than Hendrix's. But leave it to Clapton to take a 2 minute song, and turn it into a 5 minute more grandiose product. Both songs have their merit and I like them both for different reasons. 3
It's Too Late- Nice homage and cover to Willis' 50's rockabilly-blues 10
Layla- I seriously doubt that if you are over 50, you have not heard this absolutel classic on the radio. This is truly one of the greatest songs of that era, and epic on every level. If you have never listened to this album, or heard of this tune, I strongly hope you will take a listen. It defines the times. This song has some of the best dualing guitar work ever made. Also maybe the most famous song ever made around a love triangle too. 1
Thorn Tree in the Garden- Album(s) end weakly with a Whitlock writtne and (yuk) sung number- Sappy, crappy, and pointless. Remember the awful guy singing on the stairs in Animal House? You get the picture. 14
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ll5Y9xvuCEU (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ll5Y9xvuCEU)
Layla flopped at first which severely depressed Clapton who thought he had sure quick chart topper. It took about three years for the song to gain traction and become a classic.
The opening guitar riff might be the most well known/greatest guitar riff in rock history.
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Layla flopped at first which severely depressed Clapton who thought he had sure quick chart topper. It took about three years for the song to gain traction and become a classic.
The opening guitar riff might be the most well known/greatest guitar riff in rock history.
True comment on the opening riff. Maybe only "Smoke On the Water" might be more well known.
Did you hear the same rumours back in the early '70's that a lot of the flop was due to fan reaction and rebellion against Clapton for disbanding Creme?
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A quick updated listing of reviews. If anyone has one that they'd like to add, let me know, or please feel free to participate with your own review, and add as you like.
Update
Index of Record Reviews- Band-Album-Page No. on thread (from Maj. Bill and Catfish)
========================================
AC DC- Back In Black- 26. ****
AC-DC- High Voltage- 35 ****
Aerosmith- Rocks- 30 *** 1/2
Aersosmith- Toys in the Attic- 30 ****
Alice Cooper- Billion Dollar Babies- 27 ****
Alice Cooper- Love it to Death- 38 *** 1/2
Amboy Dukes- Journey to the Center of a Mind- 39 ** 1/2
Asia- Asia- 38 * 1/2
The Beach Boys- Pet Sounds- ** 1/2
The Beatles- Sargent Pepper's Lonely Heart Club Band- 30 *****
Big Country- The Crossing-39 *** 1/2
Black Oak Arkansas, Black Oak Arkansas- 32 *** 1/2
Black Sabbath- Volume 4- 26 ****
Blink 182- Enema of the State- 32 *** 1/2
Blue Oyster Cult- Agents of Fortune- 28 ****
Blue Oyster Cult- The Revolution By Night- 38 *** 1/2
Bloodrock-II - 29 *** 1/2
Boston-Boston- 26 *****
Boston- Walk On- 37 ****
Jackson Browne- Lawyers in Love- 38 ***
The Cars- Candy-O - 28 ****
The Cars-The Cars- 39 ****
Chicago- Chicago- 29 *** 1/2
Creedence Clearwater Revival- Willy and the Poor Boys- 27 *****
Creme- Disraeli Gears- 37 **** 1/2
Deep Purple- Burn- 37 ****
Deep Purple- Machine Head- 30 **** 1/2
Def Leppard- Hysteria- 29 ****
Derek and the Dominos- Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs- 40 ****
Dire Straits- Love Over Gold- 41 **** 1/2
Dire Straits- Making Movies- 36 ****
The Doors-The Doors-30 ***
Dream Theatre- Images and Words- 37 ***
Eagles- The Long Run- 37. ***
Emerson Lake and Palmer- Brain Salad Surgery- 26 **** 1/2
Emerson Lake and Palmer- Pictures at an Exhibition- 32 ****
Eno- Another Green World- 34
Foghat- Night Shift- 42 ****
Foreigner- IV- 29 *** 1/2
Genesis- Trespass- 36
Golden Earring- Moontan- 33 *** 1/2
Grand Funk Railroad- Closer to Home- 35 ***
Green Day- American Idiot- 29 ***
Guns and Roses- Appetite for Destruction- 39 *
INXS- Listen Like Thieves- 36 ***
Jimi Hendrix- Are you Experienced- 34 **** 1/2
James Gang- Rides Again- 29 ****
Jethro Tull- Aqualung- 32 *** 1/2
Journey- Infinity- 35 *** 1/2
Kansas- Leftoverture- 28 ****
Kansas- Point of Know Return- 41 ****
King Crimson- In the Court of the Crimson King- 34 *** 1/2
Kiss- Destroyer- 30 ***
Led Zeppelin- II- 41 *****
Led Zeppelin- III- 29 *****
Led Zeppelin-IV- 25 *****
Lynyrd Skynyrd- Lynyrd Skynrd- 33 ****
Metallica- Black Album- 35 ** 1/2
Steve Miller Band- Book of Dreams- 29 *** 1/2
The Moody Blues- Days of Future Past- 35 **** 1/2
The Moody Blues- 7th Sojourn- 28 **** 1/2
Nazareth- Hair of the Dog -37 ***
Willie Nelson- Red Headed Stranger- 40 ***
Nine Inch Nails- The Downward Spiral- 37 ***
Nirvanna- Nevermind- 35 **
Mike Oldfield- Tubular Bells- 37 ** 1/2
Pink Floyd- Dark Side of the Moon- 30 ****
Tom Petty- Full Moon Fever- 25 *****
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers- Into the Great Wide Open- 34 ****
Queen- Queen- 36 ****
Ramones- Ramones- 28 ****
Roxy Music- For Your Pleasure- 35 ***
Rush- 2112- 26 *****
Rush- Hemispheres - 41 *****
Rush- Moving Pictures- 30 *****
Rush- Vapor Trails- 41 ****
Bob Seger- Against the Wind- 26 ****
The Sex Pistols- Never Mind the Bullocks- 33 **
Smashing Pumpkins- Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness- 31 *** 1/2
The Smithereens- 11- 37 ** 1/2
Styx- Equinox- 33 **** 1/2
Styx- Grand Illusion- 26 **** 1/2
Synergy- Sequencer- 40 *** 1/2
Toto- Isolation- 34 ***
Trapeze- Medusa- 40 ***
Uriah Heep- Demons and Wizards- 28 ***
Van Halen- Van Halen- 40 ** 1/2
Weezer- Blue Album- 35 ***
The Who- Tommy- 32 **** 1/2
The Who- Who's Next- 26 *****
Yes- Talk- 39 *****
Yes- The Yes Album- 27 *****
Neil Young and Crazy Horse- Rust Never Sleeps- 38 ****
Frank Zappa- Apostrophe- 31 ****
ZZ Top- Tres Hombres- 28 ****
*- Poor
**- Good
***- Very Good
****- Excellent
*****- Classic, indispensable
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Dire Straits- Love Over Gold- 1982 **** 1/2
Dire Straits made two absolutely fabulous albums during their career. Making Movies, which I have previously covered, and today's choice Love Over Gold. Interestingly Love Over Gold was the band's least commerically successful LP. It was understandable, in the fact that Knopfler chose a much different route over other efforts. This album by its nature and creation had no intent of creating a hit, and mostly this is a spectacular example of an artist basically creating musical work that was hook-free.
What Mark Knopfler did do, was create some of the most beautiful rock made in the late 1970's and early 1980's. This is maybe the most keyboard angled of all their work, and did they ever work it in a spectacular fashion. When you hear Knopfler play, it is done in the blues manner, but is not the blues. Knopfler's guitar is as unique and recognizable as Hendrix, or EVH, just on its own merit. Smoothly, bluezy, but with such a jazz like improv inclination. Listening to this album and Making Movies are an immersive experience. Knopfler's supporting cast, though pretty much anonymous augments in like quicksand around an stationary object.
The tone of the album is more sorrowful and introspect than other works too. And thus maybe one of the most apt album titles ever. This truly is the love of the music and the craft over any cash commerical award. And what makes the album so special is how different every song mostly is from the last. You are seeing the full songwriting and performance spectrum of a rock great. I do have to admit that in some ways Making Movies is a more enjoyable relaxing listen, but I still have to give the nod to this one technical greatness.
Fun Fact: Only Dire Straits studio album of their 6 that did not reach platinum status in the U.S.
Side 1-
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Telegraph Road- Jaw Droppingly beautiful 15 minute voyage into the crevaces of Knopfler's creative songwriting. I can not think of any other song in DS's career that Knoplers so soulfully innotated his 6 string skills. I have often said that no one made their ax more like an addtional vocal than Knopfler, and with this and well intertwined keyboard this is a unabashed unheralded classic. Lyrically, so sad, and wonder how much he showed his emotions in his work. And the guitar work at the end. Just wow. - 1
Private Investigations- Mark dusts off the Ovation in a perfectly constructed Spanish Guitar styling narrative like song. This isn't rap folks. But it is perfectly chorded with soulful inward progressions. Again, it is like he transfers his intense emotions onto the frets with masterful and powerful intent. You can see why this did not have huge appeal. It was art, not arena rock and roll stuff. 3
Side 2-
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Industrial Disease- Maybe the most commerical of a very un-commerical like LP. A lot of tongue in cheek humor interplay with hammond like keyboard, and of course, standard great guitar work. I am sure Knopfler meant more than just a bad day at the factory when writing this song, though there may be some underlying economic/political ills that many of us were witnessing and seeing in the early 1980's 5
Love Over Gold- Title track has some similarity in tenor and tone, of side 1. Again nicely constructed, but minus some of the heart. I sensed a few missed opportunities here. Still good tune. 4
It Never Rains- In what has bee mostly a depressing meter, last song on the LP is much more musically upbeat, though lyrically and contrastingly more darker in intent. Some of the best traditonal songwriting, and a bit of style that was much more evident on Making Movies or Comminque. Fantastic ending number, and nice reminder that you sure got your money's worth on this one. 2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e-FFdiWxzWs (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e-FFdiWxzWs)
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True comment on the opening riff. Maybe only "Smoke On the Water" might be more well known.
Did you hear the same rumours back in the early '70's that a lot of the flop was due to fan reaction and rebellion against Clapton for disbanding Creme?
You are both right and wrong. The opening riff for SOTW is about as well-known as the one from Layla, but it is a bass guitar riff. Whatever.
I don't know that much about the background behind the failure of the song other than it didn't immediately climb the charts, and Clapton went into a funk for a few years.
I was not then and am not now a big Cream or Clapton fan. I just liked Layla and Clapton's guitar work in general. It actually took me a decade later after I bought the Disraeli Gears album to like some of the tracks on the album. My head just wasn't there at the time. Like a lot of other music that I now like.
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You are both right and wrong. The opening riff for SOTW is about as well-known as the one from Layla, but it is a bass guitar riff.
???
Looks like Blackmore to me.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jlHEdkL1VoM (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jlHEdkL1VoM)
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Willie is in a category all his own, imho, @catfish1957 . I listen to c & w and most music except rap or opera.* Willie is a great lyricist. Although his voice isn't conventional by any means, it's pretty interesting and good to listen to.
I went to a Farm Aid concert that he sponsored that featured artists from a large spectrum of genres. Willie played along with every one of them. It was a 12 hour event and he put Jerry Lewis on his telethons to shame as far as keeping up,lol. I don't know if you have ever seen a picture of his guitar, but there is a hole worn in it.
*I'm not real good on heavy metal or a lot of the bands from the 80s...Rush, Yes, The Cars. I may like a song or two. My brother, the musician in our family, loves those groups. I'm sure I'm just not sophisticated enough to appreciate the complexity of their music. But I still enjoy the reviews!
Agreed. Willie is in a category of his own. I have seen him at least 4 times. The last time I saw him, he was still good, but starting to struggle because of age and his illness; but Willie still came shining through. His voice and style are absolutely, undoubtedly unique.
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A quick updated listing of reviews. If anyone has one that they'd like to add, let me know, or please feel free to participate with your own review, and add as you like.
Update
Index of Record Reviews- Band-Album-Page No. on thread (from Maj. Bill and Catfish)
========================================
*- Poor
**- Good
***- Very Good
****- Excellent
*****- Classic, indispensable
Giving the Moody Blues only ****? They are in a category all their own with a combination of blues, rock, ballads, and orchestra and their harmonizing and vocals are incredible. I rate them ***** Indispensable. There is just no other group/band like them. None. I've seen them several times and their concerts (especially in the early years) were absolutely incredible. Just my opinion.
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Giving the Moody Blues only ****? They are in a category all their own with a combination of blues, rock, ballads, and orchestra and their harmonizing and vocals are incredible. I rate them ***** Indispensable. There is just no other group/band like them. None. I've seen them several times and their concerts (especially in the early years) were absolutely incredible. Just my opinion.
Actually was 4 1/2 stars for both. I rated 1st and 7th albums pretty equally based on again.... opinion. That's pretty high considering some of the others I've reviewed. I share your high regard for this band, and prog would be much different without their contributions. Sounds like you might be able to some reviews... please participate.
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Big Country (no page number given) .... gets a 5* rating from me (mainly due to not being able to rate it higher). Would love to read the review if someone pings me with a page number.
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Big Country (no page number given) .... gets a 5* rating from me (mainly due to not being able to rate it higher). Would love to read the review if someone pings me with a page number.
Page 39 (Reply 971)
Sorry I left it off.
https://www.gopbriefingroom.com/index.php/topic,458127.950.html (https://www.gopbriefingroom.com/index.php/topic,458127.950.html)
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Page 39 (Reply 971)
Sorry I left it off.
https://www.gopbriefingroom.com/index.php/topic,458127.950.html (https://www.gopbriefingroom.com/index.php/topic,458127.950.html)
Thank you Sir :beer:
You have the song Chance ranked your favorite and in concert it is one of my favorites too. The crowd just has a great time singing with the band with it.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Led Zeppelin II (1969) *****
Part of the fun of doing these reviews, is taking the time and in one setting listening to these in a pristine focused manner. Which is counter to normally what you would encounter on a Pandora Station, or Spotify, Classic Rock Station, or other pre-packaged manner of listening. I have literally listened to this album 100's of times in my life, and it never grows old. As ground breaking as the first Zep album was, I always felt that I was configured by Page to lure his Yardbirds fans into the snare. It was so bluesy, though spectacular, and there was no doubt Rock and Roll history was made, and it was the band/album that offically knocked the Beatles off the throne.
II, OTOH, redefined hard rock, but had so much of a well entrinched and enough blues to appease the older fans. To me this album is as fresh and powerful as it was the first time I heard it soon after its release. There is good reason that the meme through the years for Led Zeppelin was Hammer of the Gods. Not only is there no filler on the 1st 4 Zeppelin albums, all the stuff in them are utter and overwhelming classics. In production of Led Zeppelin II we are watching Page work magic in transforming this band into rock iconic status,.... forever. The 3 core muscians are legends. Page and Bonham are easily on almost all top 5 all time in lists of excellence. And JPJ? To me among the most underrated of all. And in II, I feel that the overall chemistry and blending of all parties just works as good or better than 90% of all other Zep product. This is clicking on a songwriting basis in the upteenth degree.
The fact that this is the 3rd album to review, and in order of favorite , behind IV, and III kind of drives home the fact few did it better than them. This album even early on was wildly successful. I seriously doubt many rock fans back in the day did not have this one their collection. And with this success came some bravado. I think the fold out of this LP, may have been one of the first out there. And even to that, the center album art had a large golden Zeppelin hoisted above what appears to be the Pantheon. That tooks some balls to make such claims.
But enough of the side stuff. Enjoy 40 minutes of a rock classic.
Fun Fact: Kind of an oddity, but the 9 songs on the album were recorded in 6 different studios. (1) Olympic Studios- London, (2) Mirror Sound- Los Angeles, (3) Morgan Studios- London, (4) A & R Studios- New York, (5) Juggy Sound Studio- New York (6) Atlantic Studios- New York. Apparently, in the rough and tough busy world of rock and roll, they had to record around touring.
Side 1-
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Whole Lotta Love- Earlier in this thread we had a good discussion about the most iconic opening guitar riffs in rock and roll history. Yeah, Layla and Smoke on the Water belong near the top, but Whole Lotta Love has to be. up there too. From the opening Plant cough, this epic rocker jars the listener into reality, and shows the world that Led Zeppelin now is offically ruling the world of hard rock. Page showed so many new and innovative ways to get sounds from his Les Paul that were here and not heard from before. From the down fret sliding, to the almost FX sounding guitar speaker bending fare? The song eptimomized the sexual experience, complete with an orgasmic guitar solo at the end. No doubt this was rock and roll sexual innuendo at its epic best. 1
What is and What Should Never Be- Don't be fooled by slower pace. More Page wizardry, and and very interesting deep barrel sound blues/rocking mix that really works. Might be one of the weakest songs on the LP, but it is like a sports All Star Game, This would be a absoutel classic hit for another band. 8
The Lemon Song- Talk about some innuendo. Band can't hide it this time. Some incredible JPJ bass work, and stealthy super difficult percussion work from Gonzo if you listen close enough. This is PG-13 stuff though and I have vivid memories having to keep the volume down so my parents didn't hear. But you gotta confide, how many of us 13 year olds at the time thought about the Lemon squeezing. :cool: 7
Thank You- Easily in the top 3 of the most beautiful tunes Zeppelin ever made. This is such a huge change of pace, and you are amazed that this band could turn this thing on a dime so spectacularly. Eery and chilling in its delivery, and unlike almost anything else Led Zeppelin created- 4
Side 2-
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Heartbreaker/Living Loving Maid- I am sorry, I know these are listed as two songs, but to me it is pure sacriliege on a radio basis NOT to play these in tandem. Just wouldn't be prudent, they go together. HB is a fabulous blues blasting solo fare. Page at his best. At the "HEART" "break" song interphase- LLM slaps you with down beat cymbal crashes and more really more standard type rock fare. Plant wails at his very best and this song screams CLASSIC. 2
Ramble On- Another lighter angled number that alternates with nicely done di-opposing hard hooks. 6
Moby Dick- There are benchmark songs for certain instruments. Moby Dick is one of those for Drummers. Much like Tom Sawyer, White Room, and My Generation. Air Drummers, rejoice. 5
Bring it on Home- One of my all time favorite Zep Blues Numbers- Page and the guys create a impeccable Mississippi Blues Delta blues sound complete with era correct harmonica, and that Black like innotation and slurring that hallmarked the great blues guys of the '40s. How Page then took the hook lines and transitioned them into a hard rocking classic is remarkable. Zeppelin caught a lot of flack for plagerizing the blues stuff from that era. I didn't see it that way. To me, these were not really truly just covers. They were a variative tribute to the genre. They took a good product, and made it better for the masses. 3
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7T4LnsuB9Ms (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7T4LnsuB9Ms)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Rush- Hemispheres (1978) *****
Rush had maybe 4-5 albums that I prefered over Hemipshere, but a band with (IMO) about 10- 5 star LP's, anyone of those 10 would be a fun choice to cover. Today, I chose Hemispheres for the fact that this was undoubtedly the most agressively and difficult intense album they made. I always considered it a stylistic blend of Caress of Steel, Side 1 of 2112, and melodic view of Kings. This is their most complex LP, and from what I read took a lot out them mentally, especially in composing the structural aspects of this installment of Cygnus.
This is the last album before what became known as Rush's heavy electronic era, which allowed Geddy a more signifcant role in Band direction. At least in my case, this is more of an album less in aesthetic enjoyment, but more of one of admiration of the musical accumen. This album and esepcially Cygnus and all 6 movements is rife in signature and time changes that flash by you spiraling fashion. It almost it was like, hey not should we do it, but can we do it, and still corral it in what would infer a tangible musical product. To the old timey Rush purist this was their last foray into long prolonged mythological themes that was their trademark in the 1970's. This truly was the end of the pure proggy era of the band.
In far as aspect as music, to me this is (was) Lifeson's apex as a musican and his contribution to Rush Lavilla Strangiato is his signature piece, and one of the great guitar works of all time. Lerxt would be a legend in any other band that didn't have Geddy or Peart. For percussion, this is as usual, techincally perfect, crisp, and near impossible to replicate. Geddy Lee's in this album, and probably the subsequent 3 or 4 are at their strongest. Once you get past about say....Permanent Waves, the strain thought slight starts becoming evidient. But make no doubt about this is band of the ages, and with Side 1 (Cygnus X-1 (subsequent) , you get not only that level of complexity, but an aura of spacey-ness, mind bending and abrupt variability that makes this among the most unique full sides of Rush's catalog of work. Of the 4 discernable piece of this LP, I rank it 2nd It moves and weaves like a 3 phased tapestry that in its chaos gels into a musical mosiac.
Side 2, in the spirit of 2112 is more traditonal Rush, and just as spectacular. Circumstance is majestic, with legendary Peart fills, and chordal progressions that feed the lyrically genius of Peart and his message of personal retrospection is inspiring. All 3 on this one click so well 3. Rush made very few overtly political songs, but with Trees they pulled off a such an intentional allegorical musical directive, that was not only crazily noticiable, it was very pointed viewpoint about how their native land Canada was treated and dealt with on the world stage. Yeah, this is No. 4, but no less a Rush classic. And with LaVilla Strangiato, you get every Rush fan's favorite instrumental. As I mentioned earlier, this Alex Lifeson's masterpiece. But it can not be under-reported that this also contains some of the most revered Neil Peart drum work too. Chaotic, majestic and brash..... This is Rush at its greatest. 1
Fun Fact: According to Lifeson Lavilla Strangiato was inspired or based on strange dreams and nightmares.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B_QTiXQrkt0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B_QTiXQrkt0)
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If I may, I'd like to comment on three.
Beach Boys never flicked my bic...but I can't deny their artistic talent and the impact they had on the music industry. The harmonies were excellent and Dennis ? or was it Brian ?, as strange as he was...was very prescient about the industry. Also very respected. Myself, I liked a couple of their fluff numbers...Kokomo and Sail On Sailor, neither of which, I have read, they liked.
Big fan of Dire Straits. I really can't think of a single thing that they did that I don't like. Knopfler is such a great guit picker that I can recognize him without being told it's him (much like Clapton or Satriani). I read at one time that he has a dinosaur named after him. *chuckle*
I gotta whole lotta love for Zep. They were probably the stepping stone to a more fusion type music. That may not be the correct term...I guess I mean blues, rock and almost a heavy sound. As far as their sexual overtones, they were absolutely there. But look at the lyrics of today's lyrics. They were pretty out there, but today ...
I went to a Rush concert with my brother. Does that count? happy77
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???
Looks like Blackmore to me.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jlHEdkL1VoM (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jlHEdkL1VoM)
You are correct, I was wrong. Never a Deep Purple fan and not a big fan of the song. Have a son in law who plays bass guitar and his wife said he could play SOTW on it. I misremembered the opening riff.
When I replayed the song it's obvious it was a regular guitar. Apparently a lot of people (wrongly) believe the opening riff was played on bass. Oh well.
Next you're going to tell me that Milli Vanilli were fakers.
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@catfish1957
My favorite Rush album is Vapor Trails.
I’d love to see you do a review on this?
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I went to a Rush concert with my brother. Does that count? happy77
@berdie
You were blessed. I regret only making the one I went to in '82 during the Moving Pictures Tour. I kept putting it off, and then 2015, it's over, and 5 years later Peart's gone.
Alex, Geddy, and Neil were rare musicans who often were better live than in studio. One particular song, Natural Science has at least two live versions that I consider better than the original.
If you don't mind me asking, which tour (year) did you attend?
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You are correct, I was wrong. Never a Deep Purple fan and not a big fan of the song. Have a son in law who plays bass guitar and his wife said he could play SOTW on it. I misremembered the opening riff.
When I replayed the song it's obvious it was a regular guitar. Apparently a lot of people (wrongly) believe the opening riff was played on bass. Oh well.
Next you're going to tell me that Milli Vanilli were fakers.
@goatprairie
Easy to confuse as it Blackmore played it in what seems to be in a lower register along the A/D/G strings. Additonally, Strats have that lower hollow sound that the early metal heads, including EVH loved.
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@berdie
You were blessed. I regret only making the one I went to in '82 during the Moving Pictures Tour. I kept putting it off, and then 2015, it's over, and 5 years later Peart's gone.
Alex, Geddy, and Neil were rare musicans who often were better live than in studio. One particular song, Natural Science has at least two live versions that I consider better than the original.
If you don't mind me asking, which tour (year) did you attend?
Well, you'll laugh at me and I don't mind, but I'm one of those anal people that kept ticket stubs from every event I went to, even sporting events.. (Also, programs from musicals and if available, commemorative booklets at concerts). I can look at them and it brings back fond memories. So, it wasn't hard to look up.
It was the 2007 Snakes and Arrows tour. According to the stub. :laugh:
The last concert I went to was 6/7 years ago. It was Steve Winwood opening for Steely Dan. I just can't navigate the venues any more. :( The only group I didn't see live, that I would have liked to, was the Stones
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@Gefn
Classic Rock Album of the Day- Rush- Vapor Trails- 2002 ****
This is the great comback album, after the band took a hiatus after the tragic losses in Neil Peart's family. And Mr Peart released a lot of pent up emotion, and it came out in a mix of retrospection on both sides of the emotional spectra. VT contains what I feel is more prose than lyrical content, as there does seem to be more of the lyric/song mix than in most Rush efforts. Not to say that this is mostly the theme of dispair. Well maybe 70/30. I have heard or remember that a lot of what Peart channeled was what he felt during like a long long motorcycle trip to get away after his loss.
Stylistically VT is less prog than most Rush albums, and I hadn't realized that this is actually the first album by Rush since Caress of Steel (1975) that incredibly did not have any keyboard inclusion. I knew and felt that this was a strange move, and with that, it makes all the sense in the world. I do know that their Feedback album of covers was done fairly close to the same time, and maybe it was just the feel or mood at the time. On the instruments, the guys are at their normal sterling best. I can see some drop off in Geddy's vocalizations, which I think may be a function of the layoff rather than age. He does sound stronger on the final two LP's.
I have not made any secrets that this is my favorite band, but even in this case, there is an uneveness of a few songs that though I would not characterize as filler, but more of the evidence of the band not totally knocking the dust of their creative chops. This is an album with more balladry, more hard rocking, almost even metal like product. It is an excellent album, which for Rush terms is fair, to middling. Even a medicore Rush might be a classic for another. The bar is set that high. The album does contain my favorite latter day tune. Out of the Cradle. More on that later.
Fun Fact: This is the only studio product by Rush for entire period between 1997-2004.
Track
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1- One Little Victory- Rush extracts an almost '70's like feel in this hard rocking. Peart's wearing his heart on his sleeve early and often. Kind of has that Live One Day at Time colloquial feel to the lyrics. Very good and solid rocking song, that has some speed metal moments too. 3
2- Ceiling Unlimited- Very nicely layered filler parts, that is accenuated with some really complex drumming. Through two songs, its seems Lee has toned down the bass a few decibles. I don't know if Alex was getting feeling he was getting squeezed as was kind of the perception in their synth late '80's era, but Lifeson did some nice solo work on the entire album. 4
3. Ghost Rider- Song and subsquent book that supposed documented his post trauma trip on his motorcycle that was supposed be like 10-15K miles. I know the story, but from a song writing effort, not one of the band's best efforts. I feel for the guy, but maybe the theme was little over used. 9
4. Peaceable Kingdom- Peart often focused on the philosphical aspect of human discourse. More often than not, this normally isn't the best vehicle for Rush's best stuff. Almost sounds like Rush wanted to cover Metallica on this one. In any case, I like Proggy Rocking Rush over Preachy thudding Rush- 11
5. The Stars Look Down- Another one with kind of '70's feel. 12
6. How it is- Alternating rocking and ballad that has a nice upbeat feel musically that is countered with more dispair. 10
7. Vapor Trail- Very solid title track, Geddy when doing it does the bass chordal thing as well as anyone else. Voice dubbing sounds strange in production. Way too grainy, adds minimally to the song. Or might even detract from it as far as my opinion. Alex does nice ax wail towards the end that sits with the sync drumming nicely 6
8- Secret Touch- Instrumetally some of the best of the LP, this had to be very tough to pull off, I know I use the term chaos too much, but there are mid parts, that have that three man orchestraic feel to it. 7
9- Earthshine- What a great song- From Lerxt fuzz Gibson (gotta be that ES-355 Gibson) to Geddy's well and aptly shrilling on this one, there is no debate this is a Rush classic. Expansive Lifeson guitar is so rich full at times it almost songs like a stringed mellotron. Fantastic. 2
10. Sweet Miracle- Sounds a lot like the rest of the album in meter. Not one of their better songs. 13
11. Nocturne- Very strange but endearing smash up of several Rush styles, as you can hear the '70's themeing with a touch of jazz, and subset jamming that sound like songs within the songs. Unlike most anyting else they did. Ambivalent, but more than anything I think Peart intended this more of a lyrical mental allegorical theme of either madness or a wild mushroom trip. 5
12. Freeze Part IV of Fear- A musical direction, that though unique, is pretty nonsensical as far as lyrics. There are moments on this album that I feel that Peart thinks he is more of a Avante Garde' poet than a lyricist for one of the greatest rock bands. He had a tough patch in his life, I think we and the rest of the world should give him a pass. 8
13. Out of the Cradle- My favorite 2000's Rush song. This is a masterpiece of songwriting that manages tempo changes in ways I can't explain. The half measured bass ditty, while layered Lifeson power chordal strumming is truly spectacular feat of rock and roll. Man did these guys ever save the best for last- 1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I-63ofNUnDE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I-63ofNUnDE)
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@Gefn
Classic Rock Album of the Day- Rush- Vapor Trails- 2002 ****
This is the great comback album, after the band took a hiatus after the tragic losses in Neil Peart's family. And Mr Peart released a lot of pent up emotion, and it came out in a mix of retrospection on both sides of the emotional spectra. VT contains what I feel is more prose than lyrical content, as there does seem to be more of the lyric/song mix than in most Rush efforts. Not to say that this is mostly the theme of dispair. Well maybe 70/30. I have heard or remember that a lot of what Peart channeled was what he felt during like a long long motorcycle trip to get away after his loss.
Stylistically VT is less prog than most Rush albums, and I hadn't realized that this is actually the first album by Rush since Caress of Steel (1975) that incredibly did not have any keyboard inclusion. I knew and felt that this was a strange move, and with that, it makes all the sense in the world. I do know that their Feedback album of covers was done fairly close to the same time, and maybe it was just the feel or mood at the time. On the instruments, the guys are at their normal sterling best. I can see some drop off in Geddy's vocalizations, which I think may be a function of the layoff rather than age. He does sound stronger on the final two LP's.
I have not made any secrets that this is my favorite band, but even in this case, there is an uneveness of a few songs that though I would not characterize as filler, but more of the evidence of the band not totally knocking the dust of their creative chops. This is an album with more balladry, more hard rocking, almost even metal like product. It is an excellent album, which for Rush terms is fair, to middling. Even a medicore Rush might be a classic for another. The bar is set that high. The album does contain my favorite latter day tune. Rock the Cradle. More on that later.
Fun Fact: This is the only studio product by Rush for entire period between 1997-2004.
Track
----------
1- One Little Victory- Rush extracts an almost '70's like feel in this hard rocking. Peart's wearing his heart on his sleeve early and often. Kind of has that Live One Day at Time colloquial feel to the lyrics. Very good and solid rocking song, that has some speed metal moments too. 3
2- Ceiling Unlimited- Very nicely layered filler parts, that is accenuated with some really complex drumming. Through two songs, its seems Lee has toned down the bass a few decibles. I don't know if Alex was getting feeling he was getting squeezed as was kind of the perception in their synth late '80's era, but Lifeson did some nice solo work on the entire album. 4
3. Ghost Rider- Song and subsquent book that supposed documented his post trauma trip on his motorcycle that was supposed be like 10-15K miles. I know the story, but from a song writing effort, not one of the band's best efforts. I feel for the guy, but maybe the theme was little over used. 9
4. Peaceable Kingdom- Peart often focused on the philosphical aspect of human discourse. More often than not, this normally isn't the best vehicle for Rush's best stuff. Almost sounds like Rush wanted to cover Metallica on this one. In any case, I like Proggy Rocking Rush over Preachy thudding Rush- 11
5. The Stars Look Down- Another one with kind of '70's feel. 12
6. How it is- Alternating rocking and ballad that has a nice upbeat feel musically that is countered with more dispair. 10
7. Vapor Trail- Very solid title track, Geddy when doing it does the bass chordal thing as well as anyone else. Voice dubbing sounds strange in production. Way too grainy, adds minimally to the song. Or might even detract from it as far as my opinion. Alex does nice ax wail towards the end that sits with the sync drumming nicely 6
8- Secret Touch- Instrumetally some of the best of the LP, this had to be very tough to pull off, I know I use the term chaos too much, but there are mid parts, that have that three man orchestraic feel to it. 7
9- Earthshine- What a great song- From Lerxt fuzz Gibson (gotta be that ES-355 Gibson) to Geddy's well and aptly shrilling on this one, there is no debate this is a Rush classic. Expansive Lifeson guitar is so rich full at times it almost songs like a stringed mellotron. Fantastic. 2
10. Sweet Miracle- Sounds a lot like the rest of the album in meter. Not one of their better songs. 13
11. Nocturne- Very strange but endearing smash up of several Rush styles, as you can hear the '70's themeing with a touch of jazz, and subset jamming that sound like songs within the songs. Unlike most anyting else they did. Ambivalent, but more than anything I think Peart intended this more of a lyrical mental allegorical theme of either madness or a wild mushroom trip. 5
12. Freeze Part IV of Fear- A musical direction, that though unique, is pretty nonsensical as far as lyrics. There are moments on this album that I feel that Peart thinks he is more of a Avante Garde' poet than a lyricist for one of the greatest rock bands. He had a tough patch in his life, I think we and the rest of the world should give him a pass. 8
13. Out of the Cradle- My favorite 2000's Rush song. This is a masterpiece of songwriting that mamages tempo changes in ways I can't explain. The half measured bass ditty, while layered Lifeson power chordal strumming is truly spectacular feat of rock and roll. Mand did these guys ever save the best for last- 1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I-63ofNUnDE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I-63ofNUnDE)
Thank you so much @catfish1957
I really liked this album. Like I said it’s my favorite Rush album.
:bighug: :word:
(We don’t have a thank you emoji)
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Thank you so much @catfish1957
I really liked this album. Like I said it’s my favorite Rush album.
:bighug: :word:
(We don’t have a thank you emoji)
Your welcome.
If you like the later era of Rush, here are a real sleeper favorites of mine is Power Windows and Hold Your Fire from '87,.
Both are among my top 5 all time of Rush tunes, and mostly un noticable even among fans....
Emotion Detector contains some of the most beautiful chordal progressions ever done in rock. And the dual bass/lead solos are amazingly done in impeccable tandem.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vF-VBypWkbY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vF-VBypWkbY)
and.....
Prime Mover. One of the most moving, beautiful, and immersively melodic prog tunes every made. These two highlight how great but obscure this aspect of their career became.
I have given thought to creating a post of band hidden gems, and in the case of Rush, these would be a couple.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n95r64HhLOQ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n95r64HhLOQ)
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The Boston Mystery and Debate- And I wonder maybe if someone has the answer.......
A number of decades ago a group of friends had a spirited discussion and almost argument on a technical aspect of one of Boston's most iconic hits.... Peace of Mind.
In the last minute of this tune, there is a 3 layered subsequent guitar run and chordal progression that is so perfectly attuned, timed, and innotated, we could not come to any consensus of how it was made.......
(1) Was this just Tom Scholz mixing wizardry.
(2) Was there an uncredited guitarist besides Scholz and Goodreau participating?
My argument was this was in the analog era, and to get that level of finite perfection it was pure luck, or was a 1000 takes would have been near to impossible to mix. Or was this ultimate masterful perfection of all 3, including an uncredited one.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tJ42CLtr7Jg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tJ42CLtr7Jg)
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The Boston Mystery and Debate- And I wonder maybe if someone has the answer.......
A number of decades ago a group of friends had a spirited discussion and almost argument on a technical aspect of one of Boston's most iconic hits.... Peace of Mind.
In the last minute of this tune, there is a 3 layered subsequent guitar run and chordal progression that is so perfectly attuned, timed, and innotated, we could not come to any consensus of how it was made.......
(1) Was this just Tom Scholz mixing wizardry.
(2) Was there an uncredited guitarist besides Scholz and Goodreau participating?
My argument was this was in the analog era, and to get that level of finite perfection it was pure luck, or was a 1000 takes would have been near to impossible to mix. Or was this ultimate masterful perfection of all 3, including an uncredited one.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tJ42CLtr7Jg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tJ42CLtr7Jg)
I read somewhere this album was six years in the making. So, a thousand tries to get something 'right' may be the case.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Kansas- Point of Know Return- (1977) ****
When I first reviewed Leftoverture, I think I remember mentioning that it was a near coin toss, between it and this followup companion masterpiece "Point of Know Return" This album contains the most famous Kansas tune, Dust in the Wind, and is overall is stylistically very very similar to its predecessor. Both are fabulous American Prog Rock Creations, and many might say that these are the best two consecutive albums of American contribution to the genre. Point of Know Return outside its commerical example .. Dust... does have somewhat more of an abstract instrumental flare to it. I think the prior success allowed for a tad more experimentation. OTOH, I do think that experimentation did hurt in future sales, as there was much more of an AOR audience than prog audience in the U.S. at the time. These two albums made quad platinum, nothing before after even came close. And that is not to say Kansas didn't great music outside these two. They did, but just not to the level of consistence of these.
The band kept a very tight knit line up during this era of greatness, and the mix and chemistry worked to perfection. Though the arrangements are tad weaker on this LP, I feel they pulled off some amazing and innovate hook that exceed other albums. The power chords at the climaxical end of Sparks of the Temptest are as bad ass as it gets. In any case, Kansas doesn't cheat anyone on this one, and this great album is again one of those rarities that is pretty much filler free. If you want a solid blend of classical, prog, and down right good mid 1970's rock and roll, you will really like this one.
Fun fact: Album's Dust in the Wind contains the only Kansas song to chart in the Top 10. (Peaked at No. 6)
Side 1-
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Point of Know Return- Rocking and rollicking, and a great bit radio friendly, band starts nicely with a syncopated based poignant song, that themed with human retrospection. One that would reverb during the entire LP. Some of the bass line in the album too. Excellent tune, and a great start. 3
Paradox- A tad less enjoyable, great musical gymnastics, and obvioulsy a little too much on the technical, and less focus on the listenabiity aspects. Somes prog bands did these things just because they wanted to flex the musical chops. All the greats did it. And sometimes it worked better than others. 8
The Spider- This instrumental suffers for the same reason as the preceding song. No doubt technically brilliant, but meh. 9
Portrait (He Knew)- Nicely done dueling among the musicans, and a most effective use of lyrics, and a nice ode to Einstein. Always thought it was a strange topic for a rock and roll song, but props anyway. Runaway solo-ing at the end by the entire band is some of the best jam on the album. 5
Closet Chronicles- I will honestly misinterpreted this song through the years, as it mostly meant generically just captains of industry, but found out that the song is actually written in tribute to Howard Hughes. Like the earlier song, it was a portrayal of a nice mish mash of instrumental gazadry, and it works nicley. Maybe some of my confusion iof the song's intent was that the band gives the song such a medevial feel at the end- 7
Side 2-
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Lightning's Hand- This is the one that makes the old time fans happy. Very much like a lot of their earlier work, with much a less a prog feel, but more straight forward rock and roll. 6
Dust in the Wind- I think everyone of us college guys had our existentialist phase, and the song is a anthem for that bullshit. I know this was the big hit, and I'll say it, and piss everyone off. I got sick and tired of hearing on the radio. Yes, I know it is constructed as a classic rock beautiful ballad style , but its overplay was awful. And musically, the alternating set strumming was the stuff of like guys who sat on the stairs in Animal House. Like Blutarsky, I wanted to bash the guitar in too. 10
Sparks of the Tempest- Ahhhhh now the album starts cooking- Kansas didn't infuse much Moog, but I just love how this song flows, creeps up, builds, and slaps the listener with massively prophthetic lyrics that were 50 years too soon. And as mentioned earlier, the ax power chords at the conclusion with weaving violin is awesome. 1
They mold you and shape you, so watch what you do
The sparks of the tempest are burnin' you through
Spreading like wildfire, fallin' like rain
Though they may promise, they only bring pain
Your future is managed, and your freedom's a joke
You don't know the difference as you put on the yoke
The less that you know the more you fall into place
A cog in the wheel, there is no soul in your face
Nobody's Home- To me, this is the flip side of Dust in the Wind. Ballad in majestic if content, but beautifully written and delivered. Song is so melancholy, but powerful too. It seems the violin almost cries. To me this is the most under-rated and under appreciated song in the entire Kansas catalog. I know Livgren had one intent of the lyrics, I like to think of it as another. 2
Hopelessly Human- Fantastic finish to a great LP. Songs begins in ballad form, but all hell breaks lose is some of the strongest inter-instrumental play on the album. The bells at the end give goose bumps. What a great album. 4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LepSiqpC6hA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LepSiqpC6hA)
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Sadly we lost another Bachman Brother today of BTO. Timothy Bachman- (1951-2023)
Props to accepting the role of rhthym guitar, and ceding the spotlights to his brothers. He contributed a lot to their early sound. Had forgotten he was only there for the 1st 2. But of course, those first two were BTO's best.
My favorite BTO song, live from '73....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vQDsmJ7_gBg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vQDsmJ7_gBg)
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Sadly we lost another Bachman Brother today of BTO. Timothy Bachman- (1951-2023)
Props to accepting the role of rhthym guitar, and ceding the spotlights to his brothers. He contributed a lot to their early sound. Had forgotten he was only there for the 1st 2. But of course, those first two were BTO's best.
My favorite BTO song, live from '73....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vQDsmJ7_gBg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vQDsmJ7_gBg)
My favorite, as well. I don’t really like any other BTO songs. This one is just superior to anything else they did. It’s actually on my Top 5 list.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Foghat- Nightshift (1976) ****
Today, I am going to offer homage to the first headlining band that I saw in concert back in 1976, Foghat. And what a great concert it was. It was a 3 band bill, starting with Head East, secondly, Styx, and finally Foghat. Yeah, what a night. Maybe the best $6.00 I ever spent.
I am kind of surprised it took 94 of these reviews for me to finally get to the great mainstays of the early to mid 1970's AOR circuit Foghat. Maybe because I was so torn between the two really good albums that marks their standing in rock history. I could have easily went with "Fool For the City". It had their two latter more well known hits, the title track and of course "Slow Ride". To me it is an equally excellent album with Nightshift, but Fool For the City got so much more airplay. I can think of at least two movies that used "Slow Ride" in their soundtracks as kind of a barometer of the times. Don't get me wrong, I love the LP, and wore the sucker out. But with Nightshift, you get something more adventerous, mysterious, and consistent with their roots. These guyys were bad. ass blues rock and roll for their time, and with this album they don't disappoint. There isn't a song on this album not to enjoy. The real early stuff of Fogaht is fantastic too, and contains a more hard core bash 'em blues in that dueling style I like. They were consistent, and the guys really didn't make a bad album, until after this one.
Foghat's brain trust is Lonesome Dave Peverett. He dominates the lyrical and songwriting chores with the band, and does a bang up job, showing us just who was the talent behind some of the early Savoy Brown. This album was probably looked at somewhat risk, with a huge lineup change at bass, but in essence, though Foghat encompasses the bass lines nicely in their repitoire, the band's sound still really focuses on it's signature ax grinding. Which leads me to that signature slide..... You can't underestimate the talent of their slide guitarist "The Bottle". Rod Price. Of course, Lonesome Dave got the solos, accolades and the spot light but without Price's sound, Foghat would have just have been another rock band in the crowd.
Fun Fact: With all of the hilarious Spinal Tap references around drummer turnover, .......... Foghat's Drummer Roger Earl is the only constant, and is present on every one of Foghat's works 1972-2018.
Side 1-
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Driving Wheel- Blasting out the gates in a heavy heavt bluezy fashion. Very typical of your Fogat stuff of the era. Fantastic. 3
Don't Run Me Down- Da woman did me wrong contribution on the LP. No blues album is complete without one. Good one of course, and it morphs into a NOLA like boogey and back with ease and grace. No bad tunes on this one. 4
Burnin' the Midnight Oil- This one has that "Slow Ride" feel, and kind of borrows some of it's riff lines. Nothing to really say bad about the song. Maybe just a lesser one of an excellent album. 5
Side 2-
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Night Shift- Not too often the title track is one of the weakest on the LP, but this is the case. Very competent musically, but way too mainstream, and the ax solos feel forced and formulaic. 6
Hot Shot Love- Like the title track, this seems like a Peverett songwriting lull. Would be a nice tune for another band, but this is a weaker one of an excellent album. 7
Take Me to the River- Boom!!!.... Now this is bad ass. By far the greatest cover of the Al Green R & B classic. Peverett took the standard, and remade it into a classic. At least classic in my corner of rock and roll. Remember my earlier comment about understated bass lines? Not here friends. Bass shreds that augment some fantastic and innovative guitar. This one went under the radar, that is for sure, and is sadly forgotten. 1
I'll Be Standing By- Talk about a closing strong. This is an absolutley beautiful bluesey ballad like tune that pulls from all aspects of Foghat's talented line up. So well written, so well delievered. This was a cool Power Ballad, way before they became fashionaable in rock and roll. 2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KSS9eKv5Dqw (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KSS9eKv5Dqw)
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@catfish1957
I really like your reviews from the 70s.
You remind me of some bands I’ve totally forgotten, or recall hearing on the radio but not knowing who did it.
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@catfish1957
I really like your reviews from the 70s.
You remind me of some bands I’ve totally forgotten, or recall hearing on the radio but not knowing who did it.
Thanks for the kind words. Most fun of it all, is going back and hearing music that I haven't heard in 40-50 years. It is interesting to notice how you heard things then, and how they sound now from an elderly pespective.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Alice Cooper- Killer- (1971) *** 1/2
Sometimes the randomness of You Tube peaks my re-interest into some of the music of my youth. This gem popped up a few days ago, and I will have to admit that this was first deep listen I had of the LP for decades. I think it was pretty ground breaking for a few reasons, one.... it proved AC was not just schtick. Yeah, the shock rock, glam, and productions got them a lot of attention, but this particular album showed that this band (pre-drugged out) has some damned good musical chops, and songwriting prowess. Secondly, this is the one that this one unleashed the genius and power of prodcuer Bob Ezrin. If you haven't heard of him, you might have of a few bands he produced including Peter Gabriel, Kiss, Pink Floyd, Aerosmith, Lou Reed, and even as diverse as Taylor Swift.
By the time Killer was released, AC had pretty much become a media phenom mostly for scaring our parents thinking this was evil incarnate. And who could blame them... This guy sang to snakes on stage, staged an guillotine executions, and was killing chickens, and slinging them into the audience . It was all genius. And many of us at the time realized the strategy. Bands like Alice Cooper, Black Sabbath, and Deep Purple were my generation's signal to the previous ones that the hippy flower power era was over. And this album perfecty incapsulated it with dark themes and crunching 4/4 rock and roll, that was played over and over and over in our youth. I don't think many songs were sung about Dead Babies in the 1960's.
This one very much did prove that AC was not a one hit wonder. All of his stuff from Love it to Death to Billion Dollar Babies are all classics, and excelelnt on their own merit. It's only afterward that AC as Vincent Furnier put more into the stage show than the music. Don't get me wrong, he made many great songs after 1973, but it is these four albums 1971-1973 (Love it To Death, Killer, Schools Out and Billion Dollar Babies) that among other events perfectly define and offically announce the death of the flower power era of rock. This band's persona is also integral to future shockers like Kiss, NIN, Gwar, Slipknot... and on and on.
Parsing the merits of "great" 4 is fun. In each case you could argue that there is pure randomness in their madness. But listening closely there are some underlying themeing that if listen closely can be discerned out. But in each, you can count on some level of macrabe, humour, sickness, and allogorical social commentary. And last, this 3rd discographic installment would not be comeplete, without a full double middle fingered salute to sham of a hall of fame that pollutes Cleveland. Induction of this band did not take place until 2011. What a joke. Just think... Rush didn't get there until 2013. If there ever was a wish for where the one place on earth that a tornado would hit?..... You get the point.
Fun Fact: John Lyndon of the Sex Pistols called this the greatest rock album ever made. (Killer)
Side 1-
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Under My Wheels- What a rollicking rock and roll ride. Complete with sax, this all out jam session. Every band member contributes at a high level. There was good reason this was one of the bigger hits on the LP. AC often used this one or Hello Hooray to open shows. A good choice indeed. 1
Be My Lover- The actual biggest hit on the LP. Singulary written by Bruce. Very simple chordal hooked add, that really got the band a hell of a lot of radio play. Fresh and humourous..... Works to this day. 2
Halo of Flies- Audacious and complex compostion that was nothing like the band had done to this point. I can see Ezrin having a huge hand in its creation. Old western rolling rthym that would be also be re-evidenced later in LP. An interesting ode to the "espinoge fad" that was being seen more and more in the James Bond time of day. 6
Desperado- Fabulous foray into the life of a gunslnger in the form of a rock song. Song niclely alternates from balladry and rock like a glove. Alice's voice is tonally lowered more than maybe any other tune he had ever done. Strings included, this was really the outlier stylistically , but what. a classic if you are into this band- 4
Side 2-
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You Drive Me Nervous- In more of the tradional rocking Alice that you saw in earlier work. A loved teen agnst has themes, and there was at least one installment of the theme on each album. 7
Yeah Yeah Yeah- More of a bluezy feeling tradional sounding rocker that was what music sounded like at the time. As good as the song is, it just adds to the fact that the best music is on side 1. Sans, some interesting Buxton/Bruce guitar/ AC harmonica interplay which makes the song interesting 8
Dead Babies- Yeah, the shocking ballad that in the stage show littered the floor with bloody babies. Disgusting, yeah? Rocking? Oh hell yeah. But honestly, if you listen closely if could be made out to be a macrabe PSA for keeping poisons out of reach from children. That's at least the way I read it. 5
Killer- The signature song the band used in the Hanging part of their stage show. From a stage production the song works fantastically, and augments well with the executioner's drop. Fascinatiing how they morph the song from a spiralling despair into an execution. Complete with drum roll, narrative, screaming, and finally the gallows drop. All with a haunting organ accompaniment and prayer. And even a a couple moments of the whirling of death. Yes, AC was maybe the greatest rock showman of them all 3
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4htr2RJ_EA0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4htr2RJ_EA0)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Tom Petty and Heartbreakers- Damn the Torpedos (1979) *** 1/2
There have been 3 rocker deaths in my life that felt like gut punches. Lennon is 1980, Peart in 2020, and when we lost Tom Petty in 2015. Tom Petty was that extreme rarity of a guy who had the longevity, and you knew what he gave you on an album, tape, or CD was going to be a solid effort. Today's addition, though not his debut album, is the one that really put him on the map of what would (I hate using it too much) iconic status.
When Petty hit the music world, it was right at the huge prepice and pinnacle of the time line, when disco died, punk was born, and the singer songwriting genre had gotten itself where it was really taking itself too seriously. I remember back in the day some less knowledgeable critical musical punditry called Petty's work "Punk". That moniker pissed him off royally, and he wasn't afraid to snap back at them. He hated that comparison, and for good reason. Petty the only commonality with the genre was his timing. Tom Petty IMO is the perfect blend of S/S standard rocker, who had an incredible gift of touching the psyche lyrically while rocking his ass off. If you had to characterized them it would probably have to be somewhat a blend of the Allman Rocking World and Bluesy tones with an very definite Byrds feel to it. Wiki calls it Heartland Rock.... I guess that is pretty apt.
This particular album is special in that it is proabably what I call their last "rough edged" where it is more focused on balls to wall rock, than focusing on the art. Don't get me wrong, that aspect of TP is outstanding, and I love how and singulary spectacularly albums like "Southern Accents" was delivered. This is the Petty you would like and want to hear in a smoky bar room venue, versus the more polished, more pointed stuff that characterized his more commerical works. No, he wasn't AOR driven, but he also knew some well placed decent hooking would satisfy the masses.
TP went through what I call 4 phases, with this ending his Bar Room era. Second and mostly in the '80's was the MTV commerical phase, 3rdly in the '90's a return to a Byrdsy S/S time, and lastly ending with what call the retrospective. '00's. But the point is like with all of the great bands, Petty. both with Heartbreakers and solo was always growing by telling their story in ways and means to make their fans happy. And like I started...... Losing Tom Petty was a great loss in rock music. Even to this day
Damn the Torpedos with its grit, isn't totally perfect, and it does have a few weaker cuts. Not that this any diss on him, but he and the band were churning out LP's like a factory. When under those pressures, putting 8-10 great ones is almost impossible. In an earlier review I sang the praises of Bob Ezrin as a legendary producer. The one on this and other TP Jimmy Iovine is in the same category. Petty learned a lot from him obviously, and took a lot technical and artisitic control as his career matured. I also again have to give props to one of the greatest second fiddles in rock history too. ...... Mike Campbell. Petty would have never reached his heights of success without him.
Fun Fact: Only LP with the Heartbreakers to break 3X Platinum. 3M U.S. Sales.
Side 1-
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Refugee- Arguably Petty's signature song. It is hard to thnk about the dawn of the '80's without hearing or remembering this great tune. You have to really credit Iovine for creating what seems to be a much smoother feeling vibe on this and subsequent vs. the 1st two albums, which had a much more garage band feel to them. Campbells searing slide is awesome at times. 1
Here Comes My Girl- A tad off-blues-ish narrative like number. I knew folks, who love this one. Me not so much. 8
Even the Losers- Band does a nice hooked well chord progesses song that, that is incredibly catchy. Their Byrds influences are highly evidenced on this among others. It also has some of my favorite Campbell work on it too. - 2
Shadow of a Doubt (The Complex Kid)- This sounds very much like their repitoire from the mid 1970's. With again those Byrd twinged chord augments. 5
Century City- Rollick on Tom.... Almost a rockibilly kinda tune that has some chops. Yeah side 1 has been rocking fun Mike shreds again. 3
Side 2-
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Don't Do Me Like That- The second biggest hit on the album, but personally it didn't do it for me. Maybe overplayed? Maybe his most overrated hit? You decide. 6
You Tell Me- Some of that filler I described earlier. No thanks. 9
What are you Doin' in My Life- Yeah, they rehashed some of the riff lines and meter from song "I Need to Know". Still one of the better fare of the album. 4
Louisiana Rain- Album ends weakly. 7
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QrDLgt5rn7A (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QrDLgt5rn7A)
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@catfish1957
Nice review of Tom Petty.
I miss him.
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@catfish1957
Nice review of Tom Petty.
I miss him.
@Gefn
Same here. Enjoy what I believe is his last music video. Unbelievably beautiful, haunting and almost requiem feeling tribute to his mother and his life.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rSvlJe1mwlw (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rSvlJe1mwlw)
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Tonight's classic live performance.
Found this gem from about 10 years ago. Like I discussed on the one NIN review, this is not necessarily in many people's wheelhouse. It screams darkness, despair, and is a mental overload of what a few might call a caccophony. But as a musican, I have to give this effort 5 star props in its delivery, accuracy to originals, overall musicanship, and in it's pure talent of composition. Reznor is the Poe of modern rock era.
Of course the warnings...... Very much NSFW, or not even in the least for children, teens or individuals and those who are photosensitive. This is a like a dark musical rollercoaster in the dark, where and when you might not know what danger is involved.
Excellent sampling of NIN's best, though strangely Closer, and Perfect Drug is missing. and light and design visuals? They are up there in Pink Floyd territory.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LBC3NXnN8y4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LBC3NXnN8y4)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Eric Burdon and the Animals- Winds of Change (1967) ** 1/2
Decided to bring one from the obscure depths of psychedelia. Not sure I ever remember hearing this as a 10 year old change in its entirety, outside the singles, but tonight's review takes among the most hard core of the genre. At age 10, I am guessing that this hookless psychedlic LP would not have interested me. I gave this one a listen about a week ago, and somehow lost the review before posting. Which was disappointing. After another listen this evening I decided it was worth sharing.
The Animals and their frontman Eric Burdon, were in some ways a blue color UK answer to the Beatles. They soon after reaching success almost became American fixtures. Of course, they were no where even close in songwriting ability, but that didn't mean they make some fascinating stuff. Almost on cue this band almost correlated their career from a Beatlemania theme straight to psychadelia. No doubt, the Beatles were much more successful and effective in taking this genre to a much more melodic and pleasant way via Sargent Peppers and Magical Mystery Tour. Still this one has some interesting moments.
Yes, this was Burdon's foray into the groovy, far out, and ultra splashed colored drenched cultural norm of the day. For many it is not going to be listenable, but I found it significantly so strange and ecclectric that in some ways like a crashing car, you just can't help stopping and listening. From the bizarre to the strange, if you want an extreme version of this genre, this is about as crazy as it gets. I personally have never taken hallucogens but I can see those into that "trippin" lifestyle might like this at a high level while listening. It is very dated, but a wonderful example of the times.
The Animals did not sound like the Beatles, but their sound through their careers did take the approach but had that Stones type roughness. They were big in their era, and this album gives a good look at that. A good bit of the album has more beatnick poetic tendencies. Homage to roots is central to the a lot of the album, and that Beatnick persona of the very early '60's kind of infliltrates the feel of the album.
Fun Fact: First album as Eric Burdon and the Animals. Prior, they only recorded as The Animals
Side 1-
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Winds of Change- Burdon starts the proceeding with a blasting beatnick like psychadelic narrative like homage to early greats, From early days modern era of R&B and rock. The whistling wnd blowing from speaker to speaker, and Burdon's readjustmet in vocal inflection is quite inoovative for the day. The wooshing wind at the end, had to really have them trippin'. 2
Poem By the Sea- Very drug induced nonsensical song that I am guessing basically was chronicling a trip. Works well with album's theme. 5
Paint It Black- Cover of the Stones classic. Nicely done, close enough to recognize, but the Animals gave it it a chaotic psychadelic slant too. 6
The Black Plague- Now for the utter strange and fascinating. Not really a song, and in fact not even really a poem. Just a very chilling and powerful vocal narraive of what 14th century Europe was like during the plague. I know most will not like this but I loved it just on pure audacity, creativity, and historic value The bells and chants almost fully immerse the listener into feeling they are there. Almost lost within it is its pointed message at the end. 1
Yes I am Experienced- Ineresting part of the story of this response song is that almost came out simutaneously with Hendrix' classic. Burdon delivers an almost a comical Dylan like response. But of course, and with lots of psychadelic overtones. Song over all seemed pointless, and really didn't deliver any message of substance that I guess it intended. 9
Side 2-
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San Francisco Nights- Maybe the only one that really got any airplay on the LP. Starts with a Dragnet like ditty, but narrates into what becomes almost an anthem like ode from the band of hippiedom. For those of us who remember that era of Haight Ashbury, songs like this define the time, and are etched and entrenched into the fiber of that era. If you listened to the radio in the mid '60's you will obviously remember this one. 3
Man-Woman- Wow, Bongos booming, this yelling beatnick tripe sucks. Unlistenable.... And I am not kidding- 11
Hotel Hell- The strangenss returns, like a a psychedlic trip with a funky start blending into a spanish horn and guitar ballad that almost harkens a spagegtti western like sound. 8
Good Times- The off key tones I think are intentional in trying to create a humanly feel kind that contains that early '60's chordal progression. Song is much more like a lot of the earlier '60's stuff. 7
Anything- More balladry, and not strong stuff. Strings sound so hokey in this setting that is so off kiliter from the cutting edge psychadellastuff. 10
It's All Meat- Strong finish with another homage like bookended song. From an instrumental perspective, the best work on the album. Too bad some of the filler didn't at least work some stylistic pieces like this one addtionally 4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ylqJu3NrFxQ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ylqJu3NrFxQ)
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I have to agree with you about Burdon and the Animals. I liked a lot of the "hits" (We Gotta Get Out Of This Place, etc.) but was never into psychedelic music for the most part. Maybe because I've always been a wino and not really into drugs, lol. I had never heard this album and listened to a little of it. I'm sure it has artistic value but I'm not deep enough, even today, to appreciate it. At the time of it's release I would have been 14...definitely not able to appreciate it. That's not to say that I didn't praise it...to make myself sound older and more sophisticated. Burdon had a very interesting voice.
I also agree with your Tom Petty review. And as already been stated, I miss him.
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I had no idea The Animals did a cover of “paint it black”
Interesting!
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Alice Cooper- Killer- (1971) *** 1/2
Sometimes the randomness of You Tube peaks my re-interest into some of the music of my youth. This gem popped up a few days ago, and I will have to admit that this was first deep listen I had of the LP for decades. I think it was pretty ground breaking for a few reasons, one.... it proved AC was not just schtick. Yeah, the shock rock, glam, and productions got them a lot of attention, but this particular album showed that this band (pre-drugged out) has some damned good musical chops, and songwriting prowess. Secondly, this is the one that this one unleashed the genius and power of prodcuer Bob Ezrin. If you haven't heard of him, you might have of a few bands he produced including Peter Gabriel, Kiss, Pink Floyd, Aerosmith, Lou Reed, and even as diverse as Taylor Swift.
By the time Killer was released, AC had pretty much become a media phenom mostly for scaring our parents thinking this was evil incarnate. And who could blame them... This guy sang to snakes on stage, staged an guillotine executions, and was killing chickens, and slinging them into the audience . It was all genius. And many of us at the time realized the strategy. Bands like Alice Cooper, Black Sabbath, and Deep Purple were my generation's signal to the previous ones that the hippy flower power era was over. And this album perfecty incapsulated it with dark themes and crunching 4/4 rock and roll, that was played over and over and over in our youth. I don't think many songs were sung about Dead Babies in the 1960's.
This one very much did prove that AC was not a one hit wonder. All of his stuff from Love it to Death to Billion Dollar Babies are all classics, and excelelnt on their own merit. It's only afterward that AC as Vincent Furnier put more into the stage show than the music. Don't get me wrong, he made many great songs after 1973, but it is these four albums 1971-1973 (Love it To Death, Killer, Schools Out and Billion Dollar Babies) that among other events perfectly define and offically announce the death of the flower power era of rock. This band's persona is also integral to future shockers like Kiss, NIN, Gwar, Slipknot... and on and on.
Parsing the merits of "great" 4 is fun. In each case you could argue that there is pure randomness in their madness. But listening closely there are some underlying themeing that if listen closely can be discerned out. But in each, you can count on some level of macrabe, humour, sickness, and allogorical social commentary. And last, this 3rd discographic installment would not be comeplete, without a full double middle fingered salute to sham of a hall of fame that pollutes Cleveland. Induction of this band did not take place until 2011. What a joke. Just think... Rush didn't get there until 2013. If there ever was a wish for where the one place on earth that a tornado would hit?..... You get the point.
Fun Fact: John Lyndon of the Sex Pistols called this the greatest rock album ever made. (Killer)
Side 1-
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Under My Wheels- What a rollicking rock and roll ride. Complete with sax, this all out jam session. Every band member contributes at a high level. There was good reason this was one of the bigger hits on the LP. AC often used this one or Hello Hooray to open shows. A good choice indeed. 1
Be My Lover- The actual biggest hit on the LP. Singulary written by Bruce. Very simple chordal hooked add, that really got the band a hell of a lot of radio play. Fresh and humourous..... Works to this day. 2
Halo of Flies- Audacious and complex compostion that was nothing like the band had done to this point. I can see Ezrin having a huge hand in its creation. Old western rolling rthym that would be also be re-evidenced later in LP. An interesting ode to the "espinoge fad" that was being seen more and more in the James Bond time of day. 6
Desperado- Fabulous foray into the life of a gunslnger in the form of a rock song. Song niclely alternates from balladry and rock like a glove. Alice's voice is tonally lowered more than maybe any other tune he had ever done. Strings included, this was really the outlier stylistically , but what. a classic if you are into this band- 4
Side 2-
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You Drive Me Nervous- In more of the tradional rocking Alice that you saw in earlier work. A loved teen agnst has themes, and there was at least one installment of the theme on each album. 7
Yeah Yeah Yeah- More of a bluezy feeling tradional sounding rocker that was what music sounded like at the time. As good as the song is, it just adds to the fact that the best music is on side 1. Sans, some interesting Buxton/Bruce guitar/ AC harmonica interplay which makes the song interesting 8
Dead Babies- Yeah, the shocking ballad that in the stage show littered the floor with bloody babies. Disgusting, yeah? Rocking? Oh hell yeah. But honestly, if you listen closely if could be made out to be a macrabe PSA for keeping poisons out of reach from children. That's at least the way I read it. 5
Killer- The signature song the band used in the Hanging part of their stage show. From a stage production the song works fantastically, and augments well with the executioner's drop. Fascinatiing how they morph the song from a spiralling despair into an execution. Complete with drum roll, narrative, screaming, and finally the gallows drop. All with a haunting organ accompaniment and prayer. And even a a couple moments of the whirling of death. Yes, AC was maybe the greatest rock showman of them all 3
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4htr2RJ_EA0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4htr2RJ_EA0)
I liked his music when I was younger and was in my 50's when we saw him perform at a local music hall. No snakes but he did give a toned-down theatrical performance. One of my favorite AC tunes is "Only Women Bleed" . "Eighteen" is another favorite of mine.
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I think the only number of AC's that I really liked was You And Me Ain't No Movie Stars. I heard the song first and then discovered it was him.
I saw a documentary on him not long ago that earned him some creds with me. Without a doubt an interesting person.
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I think the only number of AC's that I really liked was You And Me Ain't No Movie Stars. I heard the song first and then discovered it was him.
I saw a documentary on him not long ago that earned him some creds with me. Without a doubt an interesting person.
His recent rockumentary was one of the best I've seen of the type, with greate visuals, and insight of his life. I was fascinated in his account of walkng into a party, and Hendrix, Morrison, and Joplin were ALL there. How wild would that be. To be friends with Dali, Warhol, Vincent Price, and on and on..... What an incredible life. I was able to find it on YT....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AJCrn3lUjTY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AJCrn3lUjTY)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- The Traveling Wiburys - Volume 1 (1988) *** 1/2
You will not get any argument from me that the Traveling Wilbury creation in 1988, did have a level of gimmricky to its inception. But like I mentioned much much earlier in this thread, there might not have ever been a more talented compilation of songwriting talent in 25 square feet in rock history. For those who may not remember this band... Lets see.... George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Roy Orbison, Tom Petty, and Jeff Lynne. I absolutely loved the concept of a traveling band, of psuedonymned no names operating in that vein and simplicity and artistic equality.
Obviously I don't need to mention the accolades of these guys. Everyone one them are legends in their own acts, and are absolute masters of songwriting. What makes the album too so enjoyable, is that there isn't one band member who dominates the act. It is an incredibly diverse and pure colllaboration of 5 guys who in mutual admiration, realized they had a chance to create something special in the singer songwriting arena. Almost all the songs are remarkably written and delivered, which with these 5 shouldn't have been much of a shock. When you listen to the tunes, you can almost get an idea who the songwriting lead was, though it definitely was a full collaboation of all.
I do know also enjoy the couple of videos of the 5 guys all huddling around the mic. Magic. And I doubt we will ever be able to see that level of magic ever again. And as we all know, 3 of these 5 are dead, and Dylan is in his 80's.
Fun Fact: Last contributive release of Roy Orbison before his dealth late in 1988. His work and help in Vol. 3 are credited posthumously. 2 was cleverley skipped. With such great talent comes idiosyncraisity,
Side 1-
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Handle With Care- Signature tune of the band, and such a epic video with all 5 singing and harmonizing. Definitely a Harrison driven song, with signature slide, but was fantastic Orbison chorus work. 1
Dirty World- Automobile innuendo never sounded so cool. Though this is a obvioulsy Dylan tune, this has so much hooked vibe than most of his earlier famous work. Harrison difinitey had a hand too. 5
Rattled- Jeff Lynne runs this almost rockabilly like romp, with Petty backing nicely. Nothing like ELO ever did. 6
Last Night- Petty's main contribution to the collection- Actually love the masterful harmony, 5 legends in total sync.
4
Not Alone Anymore- Very very much a Roy Orbison song, that has a modern feel to his older stuff from the very early 1960's. 7
Side 2-
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Congratulations- Slow rolling ballad led by Dylan, that has that endearing off key trademarked sound that made him an icon. 9
Heading For the Light- Light pleasant one that harkens back to a lot of the early to mid '70's solo work. Fantastic. When a guy like this often considered the 3rd best song writer of a band, just drives home how great of writers the Beatles were. 3
Margarita- Electronic oddity on this one, Strangely though this sounds more like Harrison songwriting, Dylan took the vocals on this one. Very quirky though it doesn't see to fit as well on the themed basis. One of the stronger efforts. 8
Tweeter and the Monkey Man- Dylan nonsensical number. Not the best effort of the guys. 10
End of the Line- Other video effort that beautfully incorporates each's members by adding a verse to this classic. 2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rwvZMepkOOc (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rwvZMepkOOc)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1o4s1KVJaVA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1o4s1KVJaVA)
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@catfish1957
I had this Album and really enjoyed it.
End of the line was a great song.
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@catfish1957
I had this Album and really enjoyed it.
End of the line was a great song.
@Gefn
At first I was really skeptical of this effort, from the gimmickry, commerical, and general intent. And honestly, there isn't anyting here paricularly ground breaking musically. But as time has passed, and the repuation of the participants are etched furhter, one can only just give full admiration to 5 guys who made history on each of their own merits, the come up with a clever concept of a band of rag tag brothers, who just wanna sing a few songs together for coins in the tin cup...... abd in their best folksy S/S manner.
In retrospect, it was historical, and in some ways though briefer, kind of like the "Outlaw effort" collaborative efforts we say in C&W in the 1970's. No glitz, no glamor, just a few guys leaving their egos in the trunk and having a good time.
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@Gefn
At first I was really skeptical of this effort, from the gimmickry, commerical, and general intent. And honestly, there isn't anyting here paricularly ground breaking musically. But as time has passed, and the repuation of the participants are etched furhter, one can only just give full admiration to 5 guys who made history on each of their own merits, the come up with a clever concept of a band of rag tag brothers, who just wanna sing a few songs together for coins in the tin cup...... abd in their best folksy S/S manner.
In retrospect, it was historical, and in some ways though briefer, kind of like the "Outlaw effort" collaborative efforts we say in C&W in the 1970's. No glitz, no glamor, just a few guys leaving their egos in the trunk and having a good time.
It was always a little amazing to me that these icons could put ego aside and make music. But, even though I'm not a musician, the ones I know put making music above all. I figure there had to be a lot of security in themselves and admiration for the others involved. Like @Gefn I love End Of The Line. It makes me bob my head in time with the music, lol. Your analogy with the c/w outlaws is spot on.
As a kid, I had no use for Roy Orbison. But as an adult...boy did I have to walk that back!!! He is the binding member of the Wilburys. His voice soaring above the others is pretty darn impressive.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Emerson Lake and Palmer- Trilogy (1972) **** 1/2
In today's review of ELP's 4th album strangely called Trilogy, which I guess aligned with the number of band members instead of album enumeration. Well maybe 3 if you consider Pictures at an Exhibiity a live album, but since it was all unreleased? Who knows. This particular LP is by prog standards is an absolute masterpiece, and heralded as groundbreaking and the band at its best. By this time, I think Emerson as a composer had realized that the though they had put together a sound large, and dedicated following, something a little different , though slightly less classical in style just might expand their fan base.
ELP may have created the term pretentious in rock. Side one of Tarkus definitely set the bar on that trait. As with most ELP works, there is nothing generally hook inducing, and Keith is a master composer and even a greater practioner on the keyboard. In fact if you look at lists giving accolades of who the greatest keyboard of rock in its entire history, you will find Mr. Keith Emerson generally at the top 90-95% of the time, and Rick Wakeman the other 5-10%. But don't forget that this band is not entirly Emerson's showmanship. I know a lot of detractors to ELP's work argue that the wizardry overwhelms the senses, and that most rock fans won't or can't releate. Carl Palmer is easy at least in my book easy one of the greatest 3rd-6th drummers ever. And Greg Lake's understated but solid fret work just give this band a body of work of near perfection. I literally wore this and Brain Salad Surgery out during the 1970's. This stuff was musican's music. And again, I understand some don't get it, but in my little corner of love of music, it didn't rock, but it was wonderful for introspection of how a group of three. could formulate stuff on this level of complexity and greatness with such a great mix of power and finesse' .
At least in my opinion Trilogy is one of two of the absolute great ELP albums. Brain Salad Surgery is stronger in its compositional accumen, while Trilogy is more listenable. Much more crisp, and really the one that propelled them into the supergroup category. No one ever came close to replicating their style, substance, and impact on their field of music.
Fun Fact (s): (1) Trilogy was ELP's highest charting studio LP, hitting No. 5 in the U.S. (2) Incredibly ELP did not have a platinum record. 0-9. 0-45 if you include live and compliation albums (3) This album (Trilogy) contains the only single that broke the U.S. Top 40 . From the Beginning hit 39 that year.
Side 1-
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The Endless Enigma (Part 1)- Song has that dystopian like wastland field, kind of like a drama -sci fi vibe. I am sure Emerson was partly use the song tone to give credence to that Enigma of the meaning of life's hypocricy. Oc course plenty of Emerson wizardry (repeat for the rest of the album), and very powerful Lake vocal inflection. Easy to see why Emerson recruited their golden voice from K-Crimson. 4
Fugue- Very correctly named, as Emerson very masterfully conducts two counter melodic lines mid way through the tune. I hope everyone realizes how difficult it is (was) to not only mentally picture this tough compostion, but being able to play? Tough. I also love the beautiful chimed section that sets the conversion from piano to synth. Wow.... 3
The Endless Enigma (Part 2)- Pretty much the ending chorus of Part 1, Lake hitting those high ones's is quite a feat. . What a voice!!!!5
From the Beginning- I generally am not into ballads, but this one is special. Again, their big hit, if big describes it. Lake and Emerson nail it in duo fashion. Great vocals, spanish guitar, and a memorable synth solo closing this gem. 2
The Sheriff- Kind of like Benny the Bouncer frm BSS, Emreson at least from POV, dropped a klunker. I always wondered why he did these kind of dittys, but he just did 'em just because he could- 9
Hoedown- Fantastic rendention of Copeland great work from Rodeo Suite, Emerson must really have like Copeland among the most of the modern composers, because he did a cover of of Dorvak's New World Symphony too. I love that not only was Keith Emerson a master composer, he shared and got almost an entire generation into classical music too. 6
Side 2-
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Trilogy- Easlly one of my favorite compositions by ELP- Song starts so beautifully and melodially, with absolutle. masterful concert like piano work. Greg Lakes's voice is perfect in accompaniment. This song would be great just from that level alone, but something mind blowinghappens along the way. Abut 3 minutes in all hell breaks lose, into a mass chaotic synth explosion. This is the genius of ELP at its best. 1
Living Sin- I do have to say that stylisitically this is among the strangest tunes ELP every made. There are aspects that are almost traditonally rocking, but Kieth ups the strange meter, that ony works marginally for me. I do find that Lake's sinister voicing in it kind of clever though. 8
Abbadon's Bolero- From the abyss of relevelation folded into a into a sync'ed and syncopated off variation Ravel's structured classical work. Very innovation with many angles of buildup and climax, just like Ravel's 7
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G4OxCw27R2k (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G4OxCw27R2k)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g8zbMbCskuI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g8zbMbCskuI)
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First of all,WHY is there no general "Music Topic",and I have to invade Catfish's thread to post a music video?
Now,here is the song and musician I came online this morning to post. Anyone who hasn't listened to Mike Farris is missing out on a bit of Majic, and THIS is coming from someone who is NOT a devoted Christian fundie.
Music is music,and love is love,and NOWHERE is love better expressed than in music.
I hope you enjoy this as much as I do,expecially the "audience participation" part at the very end.
BTW,THE "AUDIENCE MEMBER PARTICIPATION MOMENT" I mentioned has somehow been edited out of the recording. It is a loss.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qt8wiGInALs
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First of all,WHY is there no general "Music Topic",and I have to invade Catfish's thread to post a music video?
@sneakypete
https://www.gopbriefingroom.com/index.php/board,96.0.html (https://www.gopbriefingroom.com/index.php/board,96.0.html)
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Don't know if it's considered Classic Rock but I gotta give some play to Ms. Turner.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LN5OfsSqMiA
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Led Zeppelin- Self Titled (1969) *****
I can proudly say now that I have now added 100 reviews, and figured I wanted a special one to mark the century mark. And interestingly you might have noticed that I have worked back in order from IV. What makes this album so unique is not its quality. Yes it's in the top 5, but honestly the guys had not worked out the formula just right until the tandem of III/IV. What makes this album so incredibly special is its ground breaking status. LZ took the Yardbirds fantastic blues sound and slapped of an ultimate swath of sledgehammer hard rock. It many ways they out Cremed Creme. Where Creme had more controlled vocals, Plant added a wailing somewhat reminiscent of what Purple had just added to the Rock world.
Many have claimed that Zep really bastardized and stole the prior 20-40 years of U.S black rural blues, but I for one wholehearted disagree with this opinion. Page though inspired took many of the covers and rehash into a unique feel that really was not anything coming from the Mississippi at any time. Page's genius matching with a JPJ/Bonham epic bass/rhythm has rightfully vaulted them into GOAT status. If you look at the 6 year and 6 album period 1969-1975 from I to Physical Graffiti, no band of the era matched the utter consistency and dominance of this band. At least from my POV, Jimmy Page is why I wanted to pick up an electric guitar and hopelessly mangle his work.
Stylistically, this one probably harkens the most to Page's Yardbirds Blues roots as subsequent ones. I very much am guessing that Page keenly observed that the sensation caused was being more around the hard rocking tunes than the blues like remakes. Still, almost all of this album has considered to be classic cuts. Tunes from this album may not get the same volume of Classic Rock radio air play as those on II, or IV, but at least for me, this one has the charm and mysterious aura of being the "thing" that massively changed rock and roll, even to this day.
Fun Fact: Supposedly this is the first album made that was sold only in Stereo. All previous were at first all mono, then a mix.
Side 1-
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Good Times Bad Times- Epic start for this band right of the gate. Every band member shines in unison. Solo has such a different feel and texture than almost anything else made in the 1960's. Yes. The 1960's were about to end, an not only did they start with a boom, this is the band that knocked the Beatles off the pinnacle of world's most popular bands- 4
Babe I'm Gonna Leave You- Don't let the pleasant acoustic start to this classic (wash, rinse, repeat) fool you, all hell breaks out in typical LZ bombastic fashion. This tune get much airplay to the day.- 5
You Shook Me- Page is a huge Wiillie Dixon fan, and pays homage to this great song in a fine way. I honestly think this is the most pure blues song that Zeppelin ever did. Many Zep fans have this higher up the totem poll due to their love of the blues. I was more into their rocking side. 9
Dazed and Confused- The hallmark song, and an absolute perfect rock song. Page may not have been up there with Hendrix in prehistoric ax wizardry, but Page had to be up there close in the vicinity. Never gets old. 1
Side 2-
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Your Time is Gonna Come- This would be a classic for another band, but from the perspective of Zeppelin standards somewhat of a drop off. 7
Black Mountain Side- Gaelic-ish acoustic that perfectly and in our minds into an abrupt fade into another of our LZ standard classics, 6
Communication Breakdown- Power chords hit you like a 2 x 4 behind the eyes. Song also has one of my all time favorite Page solos. This song made many coverts out their existing ax to a Les Paul, that is for sure. 2
I Can't Quit You Baby- Epic blues LZ umber- Harkening back to my earlier comment on my preference of rocking zeppelin vs. bluezy zeppelin, this listener prefers the heavy rocking No knock on this one, it is big in their catalog. Just my taste. 8
How Many More Times- What a massively impactful conclusion. Can not say enough of how many times this LP lingered in the ear waves of youth. And in so many ways this is so amazing that an album so revered by fans in 1969, does not lose one iota of luster even almost 55 years later. 3
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G1rJohGD9LA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G1rJohGD9LA)
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Don't know if it's considered Classic Rock but I gotta give some play to Ms. Turner.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LN5OfsSqMiA
@Free Vulcan
I think Tina is highlighted in the "As good as it gets" category.
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@sneakypete
https://www.gopbriefingroom.com/index.php/board,96.0.html (https://www.gopbriefingroom.com/index.php/board,96.0.html)
@catfish1957
Thank you!
Couldn't find it to save my life. Damn chemo brain is driving me nuts. Today I can't spell,and have to double check everything before I post it.
IF I remember to check it at all,of course.
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It was always a little amazing to me that these icons could put ego aside and make music. But, even though I'm not a musician, the ones I know put making music above all. I figure there had to be a lot of security in themselves and admiration for the others involved. Like @Gefn I love End Of The Line. It makes me bob my head in time with the music, lol. Your analogy with the c/w outlaws is spot on.
As a kid, I had no use for Roy Orbison.
@berdie
I honestly didn't think that was even possible. NOT trying to make a joke or slam on you,but I was in awe of his voice since the very first word I heard him sing. Roy really and truly was "One of a kind".
But as an adult...boy did I have to walk that back!!! He is the binding member of the Wilburys. His voice soaring above the others is pretty darn impressive.
Oh,yeah!
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Been on an extended hiatus out west visiting kids/grandkids. Had a blast shocking the Californian minions with Texas thinking and antics.
Good example, is there is absolute stereotypic kind of California woman in a tight running suit about aged 45 trying to look 18, jogging in shopping centers, with her pony tail flopping side by side like Malibu Barbie. One morning, I pulled up to one in my big truck, and asked her if she knew the directions to the restaurant .. "Chubby's". Her reaction was priceless.
Now that things are returning to normal, I hope to resume these reviews.
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Been on an extended hiatus out west visiting kids/grandkids. Had a blast shocking the Californian minions with Texas thinking and antics.
Good example, is there is absolute stereotypic kind of California woman in a tight running suit about aged 45 trying to look 18, jogging in shopping centers, with her pony tail flopping side by side like Malibu Barbie. One morning, I pulled up to one in my big truck, and asked her if she knew the directions to the restaurant .. "Chubby's". Her reaction was priceless.
Now that things are returning to normal, I hope to resume these reviews.
Did she know the directions, tho'?
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Did she know the directions, tho'?
After the utter shock in her face, an equally animant GTH look followed. Was worth price of admission tho.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- AC DC- For Those About to Rock- (1981). *** 1/2
This album was and has been very mis-characterized in the history of rock and roll. Depsite all the fan criticism, this still was the first No. 1 in U.S. LP for AC DC. The same have lamented that this album rode purely the wave of their life time masterpiece Back In Black. I will not argue that point, but I also counter that this disk is not only great, but maybe only acouple of tads less great than BIB. What I especially like is singer Brian Johnson gave more of his own signature sound than semi-mimicking Bon Scott in Black In Black.
Musically, AC DC are among the kings of hard rock hooks, and 4/4 time bombastic 3 or 4 chord party rock and roll. And this particular album does not deviate from the formula. This is strongly consistent and banging album that has been wrongly dissed for reasons I mentioned earlier. I also give bonus points for being one of my favorite album covers of all time too. Cannons are bad ass. No if or buts.
It should be noted that this was the last album the band had produced with Mutt Lange. Which is a shame, as the late '70's and early '80's in my eyes are the ultimate hay days of this band. The absolutely made really good albums afterwards, but never with the consistency of this time frame. From the sound perspective, Angus Young's solos are particularly crisp just like BIB. As with all the ACDC stuff, it is full of fun and innuendo. Very little of any filler.
Fun Fact- Even though AC DC are almost universally accepted as the unoffical national band of Australia, this LP only topped off at No. 3. I found that fact pretty odd.
Side 1-
For Those About to Rock- Fabulous title track- Head banging stuff that features the bad ass climaxes into cannon fire. This is a band that's sound hits you like a 12 pound cannon ball between eyes. Song's end soloing is vintage Angus Young. 2
Put the Finger on You- Standard riffs on a stones-ish type of number. Good song, but lower tier on this LP - 8
Let's Get it Up- My personal favorite on the LP, At least it took three songs to get into heavy innuendo. The ax/"on 4" drum/cymbal crash mix is unique to to AC DC, but the sudued feel on this works so very well. 1
Inject the Venom- Musically stylistically more like their mid 70's stuff. Meter minus vocal almosts sounds early Purple work- 6
Snowballed- Johnson's best wailing and a established singing style that was his hallmark for the band for decades- 5
Side 2-
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Evil Walks- Mix of Hell's Bells and Noise Pollution with more stones like boogie stuff. Nothing innovative or new. Not this is rehash, but... - 9
C.O.D- Standard fare from the band, that almost has an infused blues feel to it. 7
Breaking the Rules- Nothing new - 10
Night of Long Knifes- Great chordal early push, with some unique sounds. Works very well, and the song does somewhat of an Aersosmith feel to it. 3
Spellbound- Strong closing, Very solid album . Yeah not Back in Black..... But these are 40 minutes where you sure got your money's worth. Future AC DC albums would normally only contain one or two good tracks. This album ended an era and streak of about 4 albums that pretty much rocked cover to cover. 4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PbzsMt-uvrc (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PbzsMt-uvrc)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Queen - Queen II (1974) ****
When I previously reviewed the first Queen album it was a tough call as both I and II are absolute classics. No one can doubt their talent, range, and influence, and though they became much bigger stars in the late 1970's and '80's, to me this is their talent in pure hard rock essence. Not understating their greatness as pop rock stars, this just my preferential era.
I originally chose I, by the sheer manner these guys were so innovative, new, and unlike anything previously. Yes you can detect and extract the glam influences, but they took a hard rock edge and made music like no one else. And it didn't hurt the fact that these are a group of extremely talented musicans, and songwriters. There isn't a weak link in this band. And Mercury? I feel he has maybe the greatest voices in rock history. Incredible range and power. I am just a little saddened they didn't stay the course with style, and intent. But they sure knew where the cash was.
What addtionally makes these first 2 albums so great is that it allowed Brian May to exercise his hard rocking soloist chops. By the time Sheer Heart Attack and Night at the Opera were published, the style had definitely morphed in a more pop direction. Smart in that it broadened their appeal, but was not good for their base fans who brought them into the limelight.
This one also along with Opera has maybe the most prog feel to it. Band even chose to call the sides black/white instead of 1/2. The white side has a very traditional majestic chordal fell, with what is almost pomp in intent, while the black side more heavy, riffing, and forbodance. Mercury claims there was no special meaning, but at least my POV, there are definite stylistic differences. But sides are equally listenable, as this album has very little filler.
Fun Fact: Across the board this LP is considered the most critically panned in the band's career. Of course, I have always had a pretty dim opinion of rock critics, who typically are don't know shit from shinola.
Side White
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Procession- Beaurtiful majestic instrumental that does a fine job intro-ing the rest of the album. 7
Father to Son- Anthem that shifts styles and meter. Metal riffing mid way is classic. 4
White Queen- Another ballad that doesn't meet the strength of preceding song. Who said they had to bat a 1.000 9
Some Day One Day- Finely sung by Brian May. May has a great voice, but when you are in the same band as Freddie Mercury? Tune has that AOR '70's feel, but fits in nicely in the scheme of the LP 6
The Loser in the End- Roger Taylor's add to the album. Weakest cut on the LP. 11
Side Black
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Ogre Battle- Classic Classic Hard rocking Queen. This song has my favorite Brian May Ax work. Anyone who doubts his abilities needs to invest 5 mnutes and listen to this amazing work. Always wondered if Peart got his inspiration for Bytor and Snow Dog from this. I'd wager he had. Great story telling while a tour de' blast of a wall of instruments. Excellent. 1
The Fairy Feller's Master Stroke- Pop singed, but the master stroke was some of the innovative hooks that almost make this tongue in cheek ditty really fit in nicely with the Aesop fable-ish concept. 8
Nevermore- We all know, I am not a fan of crooning balladry, but this is the first song, that Queen showcased Mercury's operatic talents and range. Also not lost in the equation, is introduction of some the best and subsequent harmonization in rock history. 5
March of the Black Queen- An absolute masterpiece. Maybe the last song to feature and unfortunately include the "N" word by a white band? In any case this benchmark of absolute blending of all the band's talents. Song features some very innovative time and key changes that really especially gives this one that prog feel. 2
Funny How Love is- Queen's greatest ballad, and pretty much has died in obscurity due to fan's infamilarity with their early catalog. The histronic harmonies just give this song a special feel. 3
Seven Seas of Rye- Somewhat of a followup of the fitrst album. Never really understood what it added. Maybe a superfan of the band could enlighten me. 10
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rhOTV0EeAps (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rhOTV0EeAps)
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I can't remember ever hearing a song by them I didn't like,and they really took off once Freddy Mercury started doing the vocals. Besides having an amazing voice,he also had an amazing stage presence.
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I can't remember ever hearing a song by them I didn't like,and they really took off once Freddy Mercury started doing the vocals. Besides having an amazing voice,he also had an amazing stage presence.
Queen had a flawless savy on knowing how to channel their talent into star-dom. You are right that Mercury did have a 1st percentile stage prescence and a flawless voice to match. So much so that the supporting players of May, Deacon, and Taylor were overshadowed even with their absolute mind blowing individual talents.
Freddie Mercury with that massive appeal also and unfortunanely gave him a bigger voice in band direction, and so very gradually the band moved from a rocking to pop direction. For some that may be preferred, but as more of a rock purist, it wasn't welcome. I actually quit buying their LP's after Night at the Opera.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Fleetwood Mac- Tusk (1979). ****
As Epic of a hit that Rumours became in 1979, yours truly will not dispute that fact, but even with the ubiqitous nature of that LP in the halls of modern classic rock universe. I recognize that the experimental basis of this work in nothing short of brilliant. No doubt this is Lndsey Buckingham's brain child, and it just seals the deal that Buckingham is criminally underated in rock history as far as song writing and guitar prowess. The Fleetwood Mac purist mostly hated the Buckingham - Nicks America-phile addition, and Tusk just rubbed in their face that their bluesy band had been fully hijacked. Not only, but this was a double album that seemed to exaberate the fact.
I love the fact that Rumours was so huge (at last count 40M copies) that Buckingham embarked on somewhat of a FU album, and flexed his creative forces in a manner never seen. Yes, the fan base was shocked, but many of us saw what was a soul beared in an intense manner, and one that was so stylistically varied, dark, forboding, and even upbeat in a collection of what was self reflective dittys that channeled the internal band anger into a classic.
I especially love the Nicks contributions, as she takes what I feel is the sexist female voice of all time, and creates magic. Buckingham contibutes much more intense ax work too, that has much less hook, and more substance and character. Yes, this was a commercial failure, but at least in my eyes this is their Swanson, and epic music contribution. Personally, the experimentive value of this work help propel Nicks in her solo career. As she was able to flex the range versus just singing the hits.
Fun Fact: Not sure this stat has been created, but I seriously doubt any band in rock history has seen a 90% drop off in sales after one hit album Rumours- 40M units Tusk- 4M sold.
Recommended Cuts- "*" i.e didn't feel like ranking 20 songs this time.
Side 1-
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Over and Over- LP starts with a soft Chris McVie number. Not saying CM was off her game, but outise some soulful Buckingham licks, not a upper tier cut on the LP
The Ledge- Experimental ditty No.1- Folksy one with an innovative fuzzy guitar sound that almost across as it was muffled in a barrel.
Think About Me- Another CM/Buckingham sung number that was one of the few semi-hits of the work. Very simple in Fleetwood Mac terms, but effective *
Save Me a Place- Ditty No. 2 Meh....
Sara- The biggest hit (Charted No. 7). And very hauntingly, beautiful and sexily sang song by Ms. Nicks. Fabulous production, and the song that probably and finally told Stevie Nicks that she had a lucrative solo career out there for the taking. *
Side 2-
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What Makes You Think You Are the One- Another folksy experimentive . Love the driving percussion while the guitar chordal progression takes place. I am sure the record producers thought they were punked with this kind of work, but I recognize the simplistic genius. Buckingham has bared his soul, and it works nicely. *
Storms- Another beautiful and soulful expressive performance from Nicks. I feel there was so much hurtful truth between Nicks and Buckingham as so much of this music channeled and documented their tumultuous relationship. You can hear it and feel it here. *
That's All For Everyone- One of my favorite songs on the entire album. Song's slow rolling build with such interesting harmonic adds, just give this that surrealistic feel of each voice talking in tandem. "that's all?" That sure is the feel, and I thought based on a lot of these lyrics was a harbringer of their end. *
It's Not That Funny- Absloute innovation by Buckigham. Takes almost a folk like melody line, and makes music like none had made before. Fantastic guitar interplay. *
Sisters of the Moon- Another strong Nicks contribution, and one that sounds a lot like she would be doing in her solo career. Some searing Buckingham solo work added at the end, excellent stuff. *
Side 3-
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Angel- Though this was released as a single, strangely it did not chart. And in my opinion this is the sexist sang song, by maybe the sexiest rock star who ever lived. Yeah.... Many other guys had Farah Fawcett Major on the Wall at the dorm. Me? Mine was a hot and sweaty Stevie Nicks. *
That's Enough For Me- Quicker paced, but more of the same
Brown Eyes- Not too much filler here , but this CM number adds little to the equation.
Never Make Me Cry- Christine turns the tables on the very next song, by making maybe one of the most sorrowful heart wrenching tunes ever. Man, there really must have been some serious emotional angst during the songwriting aspects of this LP. *
I Know I am Not Wrong- "Don't Blame Me" is a repetitive theme and lyric on this album. Song encapuslates tone, tenor and musical feel of the entire album. One of my favorites on the LP. *
Side 4-
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Honey Hi- Another homer by Chris McVie. Hard to beleive that a song so simple, and elemental could come across so nicely. *
Beautiful Child- Nick's meloncoly add. Not bad, not her best effort on the LP.
Walk a Thin Line- Very nice harmonized total group effort . Buckingham using these slow rolling folk like songs was well hallmarked by this one as an example .*
Tusk- I kind of dug this one since I was a member of a university marching band almost in that same era. Otherwise this pretty much was a gimmick song. In the grand scheme of time, pretty pointless.
Never Forget- One hour plus album closes with a positive and pleasant note. No, and at least from my POV, I will never forget how good and overlooked this album is in rock history.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j3gnGhTCLqs (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j3gnGhTCLqs)
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JMHO...Tusk was as good as Rumors. Maybe not as commercially successful.
Glad to see you back @catfish1957 . I love your reviews. :laugh:
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JMHO...Tusk was as good as Rumors. Maybe not as commercially successful.
Glad to see you back @catfish1957 . I love your reviews. :laugh:
Thanks for the kind words @berdie. If there are any particular bands or albums you'd like to see a review, let me know.
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Thanks for the kind words @berdie. If there are any particular bands or albums you'd like to see a review, let me know.
I’m not Berdie happy77, but could you do a review of “Edgar Winter’s White Trash” album?
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I’m not Berdie happy77, but could you do a review of “Edgar Winter’s White Trash” album?
@deb
Love to. And there is only one LP that will fit that bill. "They Only Come Out At Night" when they were the Edgar Winter Group is an excellent choice. Fine album, that I have had on the radar for a while, but never got around to doing. His collaboration with Derringer was a winner, and this particular album has their 2 most well known songs.
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@deb
Love to. And there is only one LP that will fit that bill. "They Only Come Out At Night" when they were the Edgar Winter Group is an excellent choice. Fine album, that I have had on the radar for a while, but never got around to doing. His collaboration with Derringer was a winner, and this particular album has their 2 most well known songs.
That’s a great album. I look forward to your review.
If you ever get a chance to listen to White Trash, I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised. It was my introduction to Edgar and it has remained one of my favorites since the early 70’s.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Edgar Winter Group- They Only Come Out at Night- (1972) ***
I kind of have a personal connection to today's choice as the Winter Brothers hail from my neck of the woods in SE Texas, nearby where Janis Joplin also hailed. The Winter Brothers were blues stalwarts from the area and this is a very extreme example of a crossover where EW strayed from the formula but gathered at least short term huge success, thanks a lot to a lot of side talent that gave this album a very mainstream feel. Think about it. This moment rock history included Winter, Rick Derringer, Ronnie Montrose, and the Eagles producer Bill Szymczyk who pulled magic out of thin air.
In this moment of the early 1970's mostly prog acts were hitting the tracks with strong keyboard focused music. EW saw a niche and put together a string of nicely focused hooked tunes, and technology that lit up the Billboard charts. Out of the blue and unexpectedly, this LP charted up to No.3 in the charts in early 1973. All during a time when some of the best rock and roll in history was being unleashed. These guys were competing with the likes of Led Zeppelin, the Stones, and Eagles among others.
With that said, you can see a lot of bluesy undertones where Winter didn't totally turn his back on his family legacy. But what I find so interesting sometimes is when you see a collaboration of so many genres Glam from Derringer, Blues from Winter, Hard Rock from Montrose, and produced by the leading country rock guy in business. North that this album was perfect. It still means had a few filler links in the LP, but make no doubt about it, with the two huge hits this album generated, it was destined for greatness. Then also add the fact that some of the first tastes of mainstream synth was added? Has this album been sadly forgotten more than deserved? You bet, and the fact you hardly hear EW music on Classic Rock radio seems kind of odd.
Fun Fact: Only Platinum album of 6 studio albums during's EW's career.
Side 1-
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Hanging Around- Blues tinged and nice solid effort that comes across style wise like a lot of James Gang/Walsh stuff.nIn any case, listener knows this isn't standard blues in the works. 5
When It Comes Around- Band switches gears and puts out a Stones like tune that would make Keith/Mick proud. Got that Street Fighting Man vibe to it that works pretty well. Also, EW's sax work is always worth the price of admission. 6
Altma Mira- Calypso -ish Samba foray.... Not so hot. Hookless hooks, and a regrettable add. 9
Free Ride- Huge hit, and my personal favorite on the LP. Definitely Hartman's magic contribution that really in a sense launched Derringer's voice into a rock career. The keyboard and effects work in the latter part of the tune is just icing on the cake. 1
Undercover Man- Reverting to a really solid like Stones tune. This one is tad more bluesier, with some of Derringer's best guitar work. 4
Sice 2-
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Round and Round- A try into Eagles territory. A swing and a miss. 8
Rock and Roll Boogie Woogie Blues- Wonder if Winter felt muzzled the first 6 cuts, as this one he lets loose. Not that Derring can compete with his brother's ax work, but I was and am impressed with Derringer's versatility on it. Got to hand it to Winter, his hard core fans didn't go empty handed. 3
Autumn- I know this album was an experiment into versatility, but this one almost sounds like the band America reject. Yuk. 10
We All Had a Real Good Time- This rollicker is straight out of Humble Pie's playbook. Bit it works damned well Good Stuff 7
Frankenstein- This is the iconic song that EW is best known for. This song absolutely dominated the airwaves when I was a young teen. Organ and Synth work kind of opened the flood gates of keyboard work for some time to come. I might have docked this one just a tad in ranking because, I have probably heard it a 1000 times. The 1001st? Kind of lost its allure- 2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vRqCaQDik-I (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vRqCaQDik-I)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Black Sabbath- Master or Reality (1971) ****
As a youngster, this band was my favorite. The band who pretty much invented the heavy metal genre, started their career with two albums.. Self Titled, and Paranoid, that more than anything established not really what I would call schtick, but it was configured more to introduce their ultimately innovative sound, that sounded like no one else previously. I liked the albums, but with the more macabre feel, I thought they were not actually exercising their song writing expertise, as well as they would in the 3rd and 4th albums.
With Master of Reality and Volume 4 (previously reviewed), you have reached the golden era and apex of Sabbath greatness. All three on instrument, Iommi, Ward, and Butler after these 4 LPs had cemented their legendary status. In fact it is pretty much a given that the music world considers Tony Iommi as the inventor of the metal heavy riff. And as far as Geezer Butler, only Entwistle could claim more thundering Bass Lines.
In many ways Master and Volume 4 are very similar in how they are delivered and structured. These two also start the foray of how the band shows their admiration for drugs. Which in my opinion is why after these two, you see a definite drop off in album quality in the band.. Don't get me wrong 1973 and later Sabbath had plenty of great tunes,but none of them approached the 3rd and 4th and far as depth, quality, and lack of filler. And it is also very evident too, that Osborne's voice is stronger and crisper than anything done in the future too.
In many ways the album buying public too agreed, as this is highest charting album (minus nostalgic recent adds), No.8. But in my POV Master and Vol IV. are almost conceptually the same in content direction, and feel. And they are masterpieces.
Fun Fact: No Black Sabbath song ever broke the Top 50 in the U.S as a single. Highest charting tune by the band was Iron Man in 1971.
Side 1-
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Sweet Leaf- Band's ode to herb. Song's opening supposed is Iommi coughing after a toke. Fantastic thundering riff that even in its repetition, comes across epicly heavy. This had such a heavier sound than even Paranoid, and the listeners will find the treats keep giving. Iommi and Butler give a fine clinic of how new heavy metal will be. Excellent. 2
After Forever- Another metal classic. Yep folks, no filler. This album not only redefined the band's edge, but the add of christianity was head scratching after so many of us thought their aura was towards the evil side. 3
Embryo- Short instrumental ditty that has an obvious medieval feel. Strange turn in style but it augments the album wonderfully. 8
Children of the Grave- Another unique turn, with a move to the macabre. I find Ward's percussive reverb very innovative and unique. Song itself was a fan favorite at albums. But kind of middle of the road in my opinion. 5
Side 2-
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Orchid- Another instrumental that is very nicely done by Iommi. Yeah he was the King of Heavy Metal Ax, but songs like this one just show his absolute versatility. Nothing outstanding, but the acoustics are almost haunting in how they fit in with the theme of the LP. 6
Lord Of This World- purist may diss Sabbath for their over use of 200 measures of repetitive riffing, but in my book this just ices down the style and persona of the Band. No one sounded even close to this great band. 4
Solitude- The fact the band contributed 3 soft songs, and this particular ballad has an aura of contrast, it just solidifies how versatile and talented these guys are. 7
Into The Void- Spectacular ending and tune that hist the listener like a 2 x 4 to the head. Instrumentally, maybe the most coherent chaos on the entire LP. Man do they ever gel. 1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-8rj7dH5at4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-8rj7dH5at4)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Rush- Grace Under Pressure- (1984) *****
I am going to truly enjoy today's review, because Rush's 9th Studio LP Grace Under Pressure may be as near as the most "filler-less" album the band ever made. There are three or four I like better in their intent and impact, but at least in this LP, there are no weak spots. This is also at near the apex of their songwriting talents. After Grace, Geddy definitely took the band to a much more stronger influenced electronic direction. Those were also great albums, but this one almost shows the beautiful transition of emcompassive prog to electronic experimentation and avant- garde, because I guess Rush felt they needed to flex their versatility chops.
This also is about the time on the lyrical front that Peart decided to be more introspective, and human emotion trending than mythical and proggy themes. That part of the band's transition was not as pleasing to me. But I understand the band's need to grow and show their entire repertoire during their career. This album was definitely transitional, and it was one of their best.
I also think the fact should not be lost to the fact that this is the first album not produced and collaborated with Terry Brown. Can you imagine the anxiety of losing that aspect of technical expertise while building the album. But at the time, I don't think these guys realized the level of creativity, innovation, and intelligence that they brought to the record business. This album didn't miss a beat, and at least IMO was significantly better than the band's preceding excellent album Signals. But the difference was Signals was an outstanding album. This one is an epic classic along with about 5 or 6 other Rush Albums. The Rush rock purist may not have like the inclusion of some New Wave and Reggae licks, but from my POV, this is the one album after release that made me go record saying this will be one of the greatest rock bands in history. And almost 40 years later, I stand by that statement.
Fun Fact: Hugh Syme. Who is Hugh Syme? Amazingly this is the graphic designer who built ever album cover of Rush in their entire career, with the exception of their debut album. I found out he also designed artwork too for Quiet Riot, Survivor, Outlaws, Whitesanke, Bon Jovi, Bad English, Celine Dion, Kiss, Queesryche, Tesla, Iron Maiden, supertramp, Megadeath, Uriah Help, The Kings, Styx, Dream Theatre, and 3 Doors Down
Side 1-
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Distant Early Warning- Never was pleased with Chicken Little enviro-whacko lyrical intent, but I am willing to give Peart the benefit of the doubt, and guess he meant well. Musically, it has nicely squeezed reggae like riffing, that has almost a Police like influence. I do know know that Peart and Summers were good friends, and co-admireres of each others work. 3
Afterimage- Very tight riffing, a definite good effort by Lifeson. In this number he almost seems like Peart in his able to fill measure with almost a chordal paint brush. Even as a lower tier song on this LP, it is still kick ass. Like I said.... no filler here. 6
Red Sector A- More Doom and Gloom apocalyptical sadness from Peart. This particular song is a favorite on this album by many Rush fans. Me not so much. Nothing out the ordinary musically at least at Rush's lofty levels. 4
The Enemy Within- Very innovative Reggae-ish effort by the band. Another one that kind of incorporated a new wave - Police type of feel. The Glockenspiel inclusion was an incredible add. And nicely if not dramatically balances the heaving guitar work 5
Side 2-
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The Body Electric- One of my favorites on the album. Beautiful synced time and key changed number that after a recent listen almost from a prehistoric POV pre-tells the AI fears when robotic technology rebels. At the time it sure seemed Sci Fi, but 40 years later? 2
Kid Gloves- Maybe IMO the biggest and greatest sleeper in the entire Rush catalog. Song has some incredible and difficult again, time changes and key changes, and a drum base that is not for the faint of heart if any other band wants to cover. This song just accentuates the level of talent and genius of this band. This song also has what I feel is Lifeson's best solo of the decade. Why this song never became a bigger favorite to the fans was always mystery to me. 1
Red Lenses- This also a reggae- Afrikan-ish rhythm. Lower tier, but still really a good tune. 8
Between the Wheels- More despair on another track. Somewhat weak end, but don't get me wrong, this song would be a winner for a band not named Rush. This entire album is a classic. And def. in my Top 5 of the Band in their catalog. 7
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QYuw-J_o2fg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QYuw-J_o2fg)
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Rush is a great band. Only got to see them once. Given the strength of each member I have them at a solid number one for a trio. Cream was a little before my time and at three. I put ZZ Top at number 2. @catfish1957
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Rush is a great band. Only got to see them once. Given the strength of each member I have them at a solid number one for a trio. Cream was a little before my time and at three. I put ZZ Top at number 2. @catfish1957
All great choices for best Rock Trios. No arguments with any of them.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Pink Floyd- Momentary Lapse of Reason (1987) ****
Might surprise some, that in the entire illustrious PF catalog, this one is my favorite. I know I am in the extreme minority, but there are 3 or 4 tunes on this one that are there strongest ever. In most of their career, the guys in the band were so focucesed on the conceptual themeing , that they sometimes lost out good old fashion songwriting. Yeah, from a cerebral perspective there are 4 albums much more entertaining, but if there is one that you just want to relax and enjoy, this one fits the bill.
I think this complete change of direction angered the critics, and when you see the reviews, it as highly panned. Honestly, I think it was mostly butt hurt that Gilmour wrestled full control of the band and subsequent music. But it was not the first nor the last time that idiotic critics allowed peripheral issues to faux taint the work of a group. But as usual with many of us..... F__k the critics. This was an excellent piece from this legendary band.
What I hope wasn't lost on the fact on the lineup, is that Gilmour was able to recruit the likes of Bob Ezrin, Carmen Appice, Tony Levin,among others. Roger Who? Some might say. One might want that this was PF work, basically done by session men. But that is bullshit as far as I am concerned. This album has some of the most listenable, innovative stuff that PF has ever written. Tracks 2-5 in sucession, is about as good as it gets in listening order. Yeah, this and Division Bell might have been considered somewhat of a swan songs for the band. But unlike many bands who struggle and embarass themselves on the way out. PF did it right.
Fun Fact: Every PF album from DSOTM onward charted at last No. 6 and higher. And 4 of those 8 reached No.1.
Track
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1. Signs of Life- Etheral intro. Kind of what you would expect from the band who has made it a habit for 4 decades. 7
2. Learning to Fly- Excellent start with great soulful but with patented Gilmour ax work. Verbal interplay mid point again patented PF mastery. 2
3. Dogs of War- Very different and powerful itineration from normal PF fare. Dark and foreboding, this heavy number evolves into a blues tour de-force. I do know Gilmour used the soulful chorus on this one more than any other LP, but it worked very nicely. 4
4. One Slip- The one to make the DSOTM and 420 crowd happy. Very bizarre metering and rhythm intertwined with almost traditonal Rock and Roll. 3
5. On the Turning Away- The one worth the price of admission. Absolutely beautiful masterpiece that contains one of my favorite guitar solos of all time Period. Jaw dropping, and deservingly so. 1
6. Yet Another Movie- Some nice instrumentation work mid point. Not bad at all, but the band shot their wad tracks 2-5 6
7. Round and Round- Short spacey instrumental that kin of harkens back to their 60's work. Nothing really much to add here. 11
8. A New Machine (Part 1)- Sounds mostly like an epilog to the Dogs of War stylistically, but short, and adding little 9
9. Terminal Frost- Soft rocking number that almost has that DSOTM Gig in the Sky feel. But not quite. 8
10. A New Machine (Part 2)- See Part 1 10
11. Sorrow- Style wise, sounds like something from the Animals era. But more heavy and subdued. More Gilmour ax wizardry makes this a nice end to the LP. 5
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ILNUaAWCW5Y (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ILNUaAWCW5Y)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Alice Cooper- Welcome to My Nightmare (1975) *** 1/2
The phenomenon known as Alice Cooper took the rock work like a storm 1971-1973, taking an obscure Detroit band to the stratosphere, with one part showmanship, one part a unique schtick, and one last part some really decent songwriting skills. The first 5 Warner Brothers dominated the charts and gave AC a huge arena and airplay presence. The origninal Shock Rocker Vincent Furnier, aka Alice Cooper basically invented this genre, giving rise to future bands like Kiss, Marilyn Manson, Gorillza, Rob Zombie, Gwar, and Slip Knot.
I was very attuned to this story even early on, and the process AC went through to transition between group and solo artist. This is just my take, but the massive success took its toll on the band, and a few of the AC members downwardly spiralled into drug problems. Yes AC had his problems with alcohol. but the entire band came crashing down in 1974 album Muscle of Love. The rapid decline in quality of the entire work package was so damned obvious, that even the most glancing of fans noticed the disaster.
With that, AC made an absolutely massive abrupt decision in '74, where he fired the entire band, secured copyright rights to the name, and subsequently changed direction in many ways. AC instead of a set band, he went the direction of hiring among the best technicans and studio musicans that were available at the time. Including Dick Wagner. The sound? Absolutely and step changingly different. It was a massive gamble, but AC pulled it off. This album is more conceptual, more pop, and musical variants way way way by far than any previous work by the band. This is not to say the album is perfect, as there is some filler. You may disagree, but I absolutley do not like his sappy ballads in this and subsequent albums too. I know some of these are some of his biggest hits, but this is not the reason I bought these albums. To me Only Women Bleed is pointless except to broaden the appeal of AC to the pop market. **nononono*
I was lucky, in the fact the one particular time I did see AC, was during this particular album's and Goes To Hell tour in 1976. Back in those days, and earlier, Alice Cooper had the greatest stage shows and production in the business. Yes, he looked drunk as hell, but the stage show by itself was worth the price of the ticket. Pretty much like watching a broadway prodcution.
Fun Fact: As a testament to his change of direction, 3 singles from this album charted in the U.S.
Side 1-
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Welcome to My Nightmare- Solid Title Track, that is composed and performed in the vein of semi - croon broadway production, which makes sense when you remember the stage show. Song featured dancing monsters harassing him in menacing fashion- 4
Devil's Food- Much harder rocking and almost harkening back to the early 1970's in style. Excellent interplay of vocals and uniquely distorted guitar/bass. The latter part of the song used the great Vincent Price as a voice as a macrabe museum curator, which very nicely phases into ........ 2
The Black Widow- Nice Wagnar guitar work and edgy AC vocals in a hard rocking background. Excellent 3
Some Folks- In attempt to be versaitle, this barrel house almost turn of the century mixed one misses the mark. Not quite filler, but meh. 10
Only Women Bleed- Can you imagine how a rocking guy like me at age 18 would respond to this? Ugh. 11
Side 2-
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Department of Youth- Upbeat rocker that has a nice feel, and hooks to be a welcome add. 5
Cold Ethyl- Nice rollicking rocker that features some more nice Wagner work. Great AC lyrical shocker that was very present in his earlier work. 6
10 Years Ago- Lead into the mental concept, that was last visited..... What Love it to Death? I understand the intent and horror feel, but the concept aspect is fragmented at best. This may have been more listenable if that was ID'ed and coherently understood while listening. This and the next two are of a hot mess of missed opportunities. .9
Steven- Song has an Oldfied Tubular Bells Motif. As far important to the LP? See 10 Years Ago. 8
The Awakening- See last two comments. 7
Escape- Talk about a shocker. After the previously listened 3 tracks, I thought this would be Side 1 only listenable piece. But..... Escape is fantastic, very hooked rocker that nicely packaged and performed in what I feel is the best song on the LP. 1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OOUIs4wByug (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OOUIs4wByug)
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For some reason Metallica popped up on my YouTube feed. I don't think I've ever listened to a single song of theirs. I decided to click on the link and dang can they play the guitar, simply amazing. The words to their songs are quite dark, but the heavy metal is quite addicting to listen to. When the crowd holds up their fingers as with devil horns it's too much for me though.
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I actually liked Alice Cooper’s “Only Women Bleed”, once I got past the fact that he wasn’t writing it about menstruation. :pondering: It’s a pretty sad ballad.
I don’t look forward to the day that song gets banned, because, you know, in this new world we live in, men can bleed too.
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For some reason Metallica popped up on my YouTube feed. I don't think I've ever listened to a single song of theirs. I decided to click on the link and dang can they play the guitar, simply amazing. The words to their songs are quite dark, but the heavy metal is quite addicting to listen to. When the crowd holds up their fingers as with devil horns it's too much for me though.
Reviewed on Page 35 what I felt was the best Metallica album-----> https://www.gopbriefingroom.com/index.php/topic,458127.850.html (https://www.gopbriefingroom.com/index.php/topic,458127.850.html)
I fully agree with your assessment of this band. The 2 1/2 stars may be more of function of my age, (1970's are my wheelhouse), and personal preference. But there is no doubt that they were among the best in their day. And their fans were among the most fervant at the time. Check out the Beavis and Butthead T shirts..
And you are right, I liken Metallica with NIN, in that that darkness should only be consumed in small quantities.
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I actually liked Alice Cooper’s “Only Women Bleed”, once I got past the fact that he wasn’t writing it about menstruation. :pondering: It’s a pretty sad ballad.
I don’t look forward to the day that song gets banned, because, you know, in this new world we live in, men can bleed too.
It is an amazing "pop" ballad. It worked very well to broaden AC's appeal. In my case, though, when I spent $5.98 in 1975, I want and have an expectation that this is another "Billion Dollar Babies". Though this album very good, and in just my opinion, the pop ballads could have been more rocking. Like every thing in music, taste and preference rule.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- ZZ Top- Eliminator (1983) **** 1/2
Surprised a 100+ reviews in, I have not been asked to turn in my Texas Card by not reviewing this Texas masterpiece. By the early 1980's ZZ Top were already in legendary status. The encompassive infusion of bluez and gut buzzing rock was their hallmark, and man did they ever let loose with Eliminator, their 8th studio album.
What really help get this album started, was the interesting development that the generally aloof and mysterious Top had joined the video revolution, and they did some very catchy videos with Hot Cars, Hot Women, and Hot Music. Did it work? Hell yeah. This album reached that lofty level of diamond status in the US of 10M sales. Yeah, the band used some schtick, but man was it ever backed up by some fine music.
Eliminator, at its surface, is the Top's most pop and hook friendly fare. Yeah, hard core fans were pretty ticked that Billy turned his back on his bread and butter bluez, but don't get me wrong, this album almost 100% has that feeling, and really it only boils down to the semantics of delivery. I had friends who yelled "sell out", but not me.... I thought this album kicked ass. And I could look past the cheesy videos and fuzzy guitars in deference to the tunes.
Maybe that cheezieness is why I don't give this album a near perfect rating. A very consistent LP, but not perfect either.
Fun Fact: Celebrate the fact these guys have been a band 52 years now. What a career.
Side 1-
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Gimme All Your Lovin'- Awwwww yeah.... Bombastic bluez mastering blast right off the bat. No one did better than the Top. 1
Got Me Under Pressure- Similar theme, and feel. And result. :cool: 4
Sharp Dressed Man- Might be a hard pressed to find a finer 1st 3 on an album that culimanates with this masterpiece. Another that is often defined by its video. Which is a shame, because musically wise, this is some of the more innovative riffing and hook that is seldom seen in hard rock- ZZ Top is unique. No one sounds like them, or dares to. 2
I Need You Tonight- Not to totally tick off the tradionalist, Gibbons gives the crowd a more traditonal blues number. Not bad, but the standards are high, considering the rest. 9
I Got the Six- Standard hard rock, and tad off the blues tilt. Sounds a lot like of the stuff of the Deguello era. 8
Side 2-
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Legs- 3rd installation of their MTV video Top-Car-Guy-Girl thang. Rocking number, and another example of the consistency of this album. 3
Thug- Standard fare and blues reprise, of and string thumping, that is pretty unique to Top's catalog. Not bad. 7
TV Dinnners- Love the inane theme here. But this as a contribution, is the most bluezy and ballzy of the lot. Only ZZ Top could make hits with such simplistic stuff. 6
Dirty Dog- This one is the real sleeper on the LP. Maybe the hottest solo licks. Billy lets loose on this one. 5
If I Could Only Flag Her Down- More traditional type of blues fare. This is the one my friends cite as an ode to classic retro Top. You can't argue that Gibbons, Hill, and Beard almost give the fans what they want. Me? I was digging what then was the current stuff. This not as much. 10
Bad Girl- Off tangent, and off topic. Never understood why the band finished this classic with a tune so void on substance and originality. 11
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5FdpJJVrlGQ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5FdpJJVrlGQ)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- ZZ Top- Eliminator (1983) **** 1/2
Surprised a 100+ reviews in, I have not been asked to turn in my Texas Card by not reviewing this Texas masterpiece. By the early 1980's ZZ Top were already in legendary status. The encompassive infusion of bluez and gut buzzing rock was their hallmark, and man did they ever let loose with Eliminator, their 8th studio album.
What really help get this album started, was the interesting development that the generally aloof and mysterious Top had joined the video revolution, and they did some very catchy videos with Hot Cars, Hot Women, and Hot Music. Did it work? Hell yeah. This album reached that lofty level of diamond status in the US of 10M sales. Yeah, the band used some schtick, but man was it ever backed up by some fine music.
Eliminator, at its surface, is the Top's most pop and hook friendly fare. Yeah, hard core fans were pretty ticked that Billy turned his back on his bread and butter bluez, but don't get me wrong, this album almost 100% has that feeling, and really it only boils down to the semantics of delivery. I had friends who yelled "sell out", but not me.... I thought this album kicked ass. And I could look past the cheesy videos and fuzzy guitars in deference to the tunes.
Maybe that cheezieness is why I don't give this album a near perfect rating. A very consistent LP, but not perfect either.
Fun Fact: Celebrate the fact these guys have been a band 52 years now. What a career.
Side 1-
--------------
Gimme All Your Lovin'- Awwwww yeah.... Bombastic bluez mastering blast right off the bat. No one did better than the Top. 1
Got Me Under Pressure- Similar theme, and feel. And result. :cool: 4
Sharp Dressed Man- Might be a hard pressed to find a finer 1st 3 on an album that culimanates with this masterpiece. Another that is often defined by its video. Which is a shame, because musically wise, this is some of the more innovative riffing and hook that is seldom seen in hard rock- ZZ Top is unique. No one sounds like them, or dares to. 2
I Need You Tonight- Not to totally tick off the tradionalist, Gibbons gives the crowd a more traditonal blues number. Not bad, but the standards are high, considering the rest. 9
I Got the Six- Standard hard rock, and tad off the blues tilt. Sounds a lot like of the stuff of the Deguello era. 8
Side 2-
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Legs- 3rd installation of their MTV video Top-Car-Guy-Girl thang. Rocking number, and another example of the consistency of this album. 3
Thug- Standard fare and blues reprise, of and string thumping, that is pretty unique to Top's catalog. Not bad. 7
TV Dinnners- Love the inane theme here. But this as a contribution, is the most bluezy and ballzy of the lot. Only ZZ Top could make hits with such simplistic stuff. 6
Dirty Dog- This one is the real sleeper on the LP. Maybe the hottest solo licks. Billy lets loose on this one. 5
If I Could Only Flag Her Down- More traditional type of blues fare. This is the one my friends cite as an ode to classic retro Top. You can't argue that Gibbons, Hill, and Beard almost give the fans what they want. Me? I was digging what then was the current stuff. This not as much. 10
Bad Girl- Off tangent, and off topic. Never understood why the band finished this classic with a tune so void on substance and originality. 11
"Legs" was probable the most catchy song (to me), but I have long since tired of it. "Gimme (all your Lovin)" <---Best Song IMHO. "Sharp Dressed Man" is still used as meme material (word wise) when any of my kids get dressed up. For some reason (though it is not my usual style), "I got the Six" works for me in small doses.
All in all, it was a fun album (I still have the 12" vinyl), but I drifted away from the style over the years. Now I just hunt obscure mostly forgotten New Wave, to keep it fresh.
I don't post much here Catfish, but I do enjoy reading.
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Great review of ZZ. I like them but usually put them in a "shuffle" with other music.
I went to one of their concerts and there were a ton of men wearing long, grey beards. I had a really hard time not pulling on them to see whose were real (probably not many) and whose were fake. :laugh: I did fight the temptation.
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One day, I have to try to catch up. I just couldn't, so I kind of stopped.
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Great review of ZZ. I like them but usually put them in a "shuffle" with other music.
I went to one of their concerts and there were a ton of men wearing long, grey beards. I had a really hard time not pulling on them to see whose were real (probably not many) and whose were fake. :laugh: I did fight the temptation.
lol... Haw Haw Haw............
I saw ZZ Top in 1977, and in the early 1980's, and I can honestly say there are very few bands out there who love playing live more than thse guys. And they do have a lot of energy for guys in their mid 70's.
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One day, I have to try to catch up. I just couldn't, so I kind of stopped.
Looking forward when you have some time. You added some really good reviews.
It's been kind of the same for me. We went out west to help with grandkids for 2 months, plus other summer duties are making it tough to add.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Honeymoon Suite- The Big Prize- (1985) *** 1/2
Today's gem has kind of gotten lost in the obscurity of time. This is a band of no-names, both in band, and production. But for a few years these guys made some fine AOR stuff, that was solid musically for the genre, and had some of the best rock hooks of the mid 1980's. This was a time when Canada was adding a nice niche of listenable stuff outside a lot of the English Wuss crap that was permeating the radio at the time. Bands like Tragically Hip, April Wine, and Loverboy were nice adds to Rock and Roll History, though most of us would be hard presssed to remember any of them in a random manner.
Yes,, this is a band of unknowns, but collectively, they operated well a sum of the parts. Yes, by the mid 80's the industry may have been suffering the Flock of Seagulls Syndrome, and decent music pretty rare at the time, but no doubt a few gems like this got through. Not saying this album is filler free, but a better part than half is damned good. In fact, I'd put the 3 best on this LP up gainst pretty much anything else that year. And honestly if you lived during this time period, I'll bet you'll remember some of these tunes, but not the names.
Fun Fact: I mentioned that this was an album/band of unknowns, but listen to All Along You Knew. You might recognize the guy playing the Flute..... Ian Anderson of Jethro Tull.
Side 1-
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Bad Attitude- Rocking intro- Yep no glitz, no wizardry, just gut punching rock and roll, and no UK wuss band pretentiousness that we were suffering from at the time. 1985 was not a lost cause. 2
Feel It Again- Wonderful blend alternation of melodic hook and rocking raucous fun. 1st 2 are a great start to a really good album. 3
Lost and Found- Synth focused standard fare, not filler, but not one of the better efforts 7
What Does It Take- Like pretty much everyone in the era, some obligatory ballads had to be added. Harkens some to UK Wuss stuff. No thanks. 9
One By One- Not saying this is a plagerized Bon Jovi tune, but swiping from one of my least favorite rockers, is not a vehicle of endearment. Yeah its Filler. 10
Side 2-
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Wounded- Another one that has kind of a Bon Jovi feel to it. With a little better result 5
Words In the Wind- Best on the LP. Just the perfect mix of melodic layering chaos that gives this tune a unique zeal of mix and feel of hook and improv. Best guitar solos on the LP, if you are really into that. 1
All Along You Knew- Perfect marriage of new and old at the time. Really dig the Ian Anderson Flute infusion. Kind of like Bon Jovi meets Jethro Tull 4
Once The Feeling- Another strong effort in what is showing to be a nicely consisitent LP. 6
Take My Hand- Sadly the LP reverts to English Wussery at the end. Forgettable Ballad, and too bad they concluded in this manner. 8
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0zFN6DwSjjE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0zFN6DwSjjE)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Led Zeppelin - Houses of the Holy- (1973) ****
Now, introducing the end of one of the best runs of great albums in Rock History. Don't get me wrong H/H is a fabulous LP, but no doubt the bar was high. This is the band's first effort that wasn't near or at perfection. By 1973, LZ was the biggest band in the world, they knew it, and in some ways took that hype and believed they could take an experimental path that make the critics, fans, and record companies happy. Of course it sold greatly, but there was an undercurrent, indluding me that thought why would you piss on what got you there.
Stylistically H/H is kind of hodgepodged mix of III and IV, but with none of the songwriting and playing prowess that made people wear out their LP's and 8-Tracks. I am guessing Page and Plant were thinking that they needed to flex their versatility, but that success wouldn't come until the next album - Physical Graffitti. I also think, and I am speculatively thinking that the band was also strongly focusing on their Live Film and Album, which was about at the same time. Maybe that lack of focus impacted songwriting.
I know I might be in the minority of critics, as when you review the compliation, the consensus loved this. But with all music, it is all subjective. It is not near audaciously adventerous as anything else they made, and in at least my opinion is the second worst studio album they made behind "Presence". (BTW....I don't count Coda as a valid album.) But..... again.....the 7th best of 8 albums by this legendary group is still better than anything made by 95% of the rest of Rock.
Fun Fact: Zeppelin in their careers sold 300M units.
Side 1-
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The Song Remains the Same- Later the Title track and Title of their epic Movie. Good standard Zep riffs, and overall band effort, though again, and I may be in the minority, does not do the band justice, in the grand scheme of the band's standing. Yeah, it's a rocking ballad, that has neat shifts in meter and style. Many loved it. Me not so much- 5
The Rain Song- I didn't pay $5.99 at the time to hear sappy balladry from my favorite band at the time. I sure LZ wanted to broaden their appeal, but with strings, and other diluting slush to this number....... Me? Nope, and by the this second song, I was almost in WTF mode. Slightly more rocking side of the end, was not redemptive. 6
Over the Hills and Far Away- Whew.... Finally a really good one. Nicely down 12 string acousitc start blends nicely into a well hooked LZ tune that I expected to enjoy. Love the off synced melodic lines. Though subdued, this has some bad ass Bonham drumming. This structurally would be a very hard tune to drum to. 2
The Crunge- ??? Funky endeavor, that sucked. Yeah, the bass lines are interesting, but Rick James, they aren't The Bridge? They should have jumped off. 8
Side 2-
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Dancin' Days- Decent foray into another experimental style with somewhat of a better result. Wonder if many others noticed that Page did more repetitive riffing on this album than the first 4 combined. Song is saved by some nice slide guitar which works nicely with the intent of the song. 4
Dyer Maker- Ugh. This was the hit, and man was it bad. The worst 3 songs on this album, are probably the worst 3 of any album they made. And not even close. 7
No Quarter- Loved this one. Dark, foreboding. Where in most cases, I didn't like the experimentation, this one hit the mark. This one has the closest feel to what you will see and hear in Physical Graffitti. Live favorite, as it worked so fine and so many levels on an improv basis. I don't think Page ever played this song the same ever live- 3
The Ocean- I am probably definitely in the minority, but this is my favorite on H/H. Air Drummers rejoice, Bonham kills it. To me this has some the most innovative melodic interplay on the album, and just a perfect mix of hook, and pizazz. 1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=97FpOlzPqFM (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=97FpOlzPqFM)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Blue Cheer- Self Titled (1969) ***
Wowzer... This was probably about my 5th-8th album I ever bought. And tonights is probably the first time I have given it an entire listen in easily 50 years. And honestly I wasn't disappointed. Blue Cheer were quite innovators in their day. They incorporated many styles that would be heard in many future bands in the following 20 years. But the thing about this Band, is that they really did not seem hep on hit making. In fact their highest and only one of two charting tunes was the oft covered Cochran Tune, "Summer Time Blues".
If you really want to pin a direction for this very good LP, its very complex mix of psychedelia, metal, funk, and blues. It is my opinion their most consistent, work if you consider Side 1 its own unique work. And still, listening to this one and few other early works, you have to wonder why there is no substance to this band's legacy. They were innovative, influential, and competent in songwritng and instruments. So what the hell happened? Mostly a mystery, but if there is one striking detraction to this group, is not only lack of a superstar grinder, but there were 30 different people who have been members of the Band Blue Cheer. Also, there are snips here are there that make the band sound a whole lot alike Tbe Doors, Jefferson Airplane, Animals, and a few others. And honesty, before doing this review, if I was pressed into citing one member of the band, I wouldnt have been able to. And I am one who likes to think he is a student of rock history.
Still, this is a fine example of exactly what then late 1960's SF Haight Asbury look and sound, and well worth a listen. And a helpful hint, all of their best stuff is on Side 1. I do know there are jewels out there in the sea of obscurity, and this is a perfect example.
Fun Fact: Even though in my opinion, this is their best work, it didn't even crack the Top 200 Album chart.
Side 1-
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Fool- Though it won't be the first or last time the band went into Stones territory on this LP, Fool sounds about as good as anything from Richards and Jagger in the late 1960's hay day. Very good catchy blues number, that though I wouldn't call hooked has some great well played ax/harmonica bluezy groove. 1
Youre Gonna Need Someone- Another fine blues tinged rocker, that has fantastic bass line. Love the ending and quackery that nowadays would be a real head scratcher, but quacking ducks was just what the era's Stoners were digging 2
Hello LA, Goodbye Birmingham- Very quaint period peace with that signature hammond organ that we loved during the era. Song has that often used theme of country boy gets a guitar, and goes on adventure on his way out to make it in the music industry. All the Charm of Ito the Great White Open, with that 1960's flair. 4
Saturday Freedom- Maybe the most standard 4/4 rocker on the LP. They did a very and unique blnd of bluez and psychedelia that worked well. 3
Ain't That the Way (Love's Supposed to Be)- Band bit a bit more than they could chew, and this one has level of clutter that hurts the continuity of the tune. I love well crafted chaos. But this one sounds more like guitar v. organ.... And neither wins. 9
Side 2-
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Rock and Roll Queens- Just realized that Grand Funk swiped some riffs for Footstompin' Music on this one. Not so hot, and there are much better choices on this album. 8
Better When We Try- This Animals/Doors style attempt misses the mark. 7
Natural Man- Stones cloning attempt Part 2. Falls flat on its ass. 10
Lovin' You is Easy- More Side 2, that just didn't meet the same standards as 1. 6
The Same Old Story- Blues finale. Slow roller, that infused even some Janis Joplin kind of vocalization. Simple one, but kind of a pleasant change of pace from the rest of S-2. 5
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2G6Gs1quDpg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2G6Gs1quDpg)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- The Beatles- Abbey Road (1969)- *****
Reviewing works by the greatest rock band in history makes me very nervous. In context, even when I got my first album of any kind in 1965 (Meet The Beatles), there was always this level of inferred mesmerization, as these were some of the greatest song writers of not only rock, but of any music genre of any kind. This album, and about half a dozen of their catalog is massively filler free. These albums ere not only perfect, they transcend into what seems to a different plane of creativity.
What I find so endearing about this particular album is its sheer randomness. There isn't a conceptual bone in the body of this work,and when you are considered the greatest band on earth? Who is to tell you who, what, where, or when to record. What is amazing is this legendary band only made 13 traditional studio albums, and man did they not waste any vinyl in getting their message across.
The Beatles were not just a band, They set the styles, and were cultural icons in every form and fashion. It could be argued that they invented counterculture . So many bands on both sides of the pond made it a point to sound like, imitate, or emulate the Beatles. Their impact on music can not be underestimated.
And from a historical perspective, I remember so many pundits claiming that the band was at "jump the shark"moment with Yellow Submarine. Personally I loved YS, and all of their work, but critics were shocked that a band that in previous order Sgt. Peppers, Magical Mystery Tour, and White Album had devolved to a cartoon soundtrack. In retrospect it was genius, and only in legacy building worked perfectly into their discography.
Abbey Road itself split in the 2 sides has side one that seems more entwined in the tradition and style of the White Album. Well let me reiterate some parts of the White Album, but not in its entirety. Side 2 is mostly a hodgepodge of musical Vignettes in a Pollock art like splash of musical fortuitous darts at a dart board. Jaw Dropping excellence to say the least.
Fun Fact: The Beatles are the highest selling musical act in history with sales of 600 Million Units. That is not a typo..... 600 Million. And that is just albums. If you include all the 45's, I'll bet they are pushing a Billion.
Special Props to the YT author who put this together. CGI adds a special touch to the Fab 4's efforts, and enjoyment to this listening experience. I'd recommend watching it before the YT police yank it down.
Side 1-
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Come Together- This cut and the next one "Something" were probably the most recognized hits on the LP. Come Together is an incredible whimsical and nonsensical (just first of several) number. Song contains maybe McCartney's most iconic bass lines. Of course you can tell this is a mostly Lennon inspired effort. His fingerprints are all over it in style and delivery. 6
Something- Maybe the greatest rock ballad ever composed. Beautiful, emcompassive, and powerful. I always thought this was one of the first big hits that featured a Mellotron, though from the credits, it cited as Hammond Organ. Sure sounds like a Mello to me. Definitely George Harrison's greatest example of his work. 5
Maxwell's Silver Hammer- McCartney clowning around in again... whimsical and nonsensical. My least favorite add on Side 1 though. 16
Oh Darling- The Beatles made very few of what I would call blues styled songs. But the song works nicely, and really showcases just how talented and versatile they are. 12
Octopus' Garden- See Maxwell's, but compliments of Ringo. Yellow Sub Hangover? Maybe the most hooked effort on the album.13
I Want You- Like I mentioned earlier, by this point in their careers, their styles had diverged enough, that you can almost predict who had the main line of songwriting at the time. By the late 1960's all the Lennon- McCartney credited songs were really individual efforts. Versus early on, it was though not impossible, more difficult to discern.to Lennon's style was so much serious and melancholy, the differences are striking. The end of the song has some of the most thundering almost hard rocked edged stuff the Beatles ever did. 9
Side 2-
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Here Comes The Sun- Thus begins the Medley side of Abbey Road, and it begin magnificently. Upbeat and bright.... Yes, Here Comes the Sun. Harrison's contributions on scale and on this particular song exceed here on this album than any other from my taste. Yes, Something was the epic classic, but this one is one of my favorites by the band. And it also gives glimpses of why Harrison was the most successful of the four in their solo careers. 1
Because- Sgt. Peppers psychedelia feel on this one. Almost perfect harmony, and very interesting harpsichord melody, just adds to one of so many unique Beatles tunes. 11
You Never Give Me Your Money- Another almost Day in the Life kind of phasic number that shifts and turns in direction more than once in this excellent effort. 7
Sun King- With Crickets blaring the band downshifts into a soft ballad of a short minute and a half. 10
Mean Mr. Mustard- By this time, the band is about to shift the direction into nonsensical overdrive. Works wonderfully in the scheme of it. 15
Polythene Pam- Love this throw back that almost seems it could have been added in 1964. It rocks. 2
She Came in Through the Bathroom Window- Another that kind of has that style from the Sgt. Peppers/ Magical Mystery Tour era. All these Vignettes are done in such rapid fashion you might be inclined to think this is musical incoherence. But that is not the case. There is a reason why the legacy of this album focuses on it being on almost all Top 10 lists in Rock History. It's genius. 3
Golden Slumbers- Fairly Short McCartney ballad, that mostly serves as a transitory tune .14
Carry That Weight- Another Heavy tinged and orchestrated dubbed that adds nicely to the equation 8
The End- And what an end. The band allows all hell to break loose. It has it all... Searing dual guitar solos, drum solos, and a swan song goodbye that sums it all up. To me... this is the end of the band as a collaborative melded force. Let it Be, In my estimation was a forced event where the 4 members were going their own way, and it just didn't have the charm or the effect. 4
Her Majesty- Very short acoustical ditty that basically dissed QE2. Somehow they still acquired Knighthood.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tIGW_TEwCXw (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tIGW_TEwCXw)
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Honeymoon Suite- The Big Prize...
Not really my go to style, but being an 80s group (that I had not heard of) I gave them an ear.... you did a good job describing the music... still not my style, but I could listen to it in the background without complaint.
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Honeymoon Suite- The Big Prize...
Not really my go to style, but being an 80s group (that I had not heard of) I gave them an ear.... you did a good job describing the music... still not my style, but I could listen to it in the background without complaint.
Good points @Sighlass. I get a kick out of good bands that really don't have virtuoso on stage, but as a sum of their parts and teamwork can come up with a good album. Not every band can have a "Jimmy Page".
BTW, what did you think of the CGI/animation of Abbey Road? I enjoyed it.
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Good points @Sighlass. I get a kick out of good bands that really don't have virtuoso on stage, but as a sum of their parts and teamwork can come up with a good album. Not every band can have a "Jimmy Page".
BTW, what did you think of the CGI/animation of Abbey Road? I enjoyed it.
To be honest I had skipped the Beatles video, never was a big fan for various reason, though I have heard [and somewhat liked] countless instrumental versions of their songs a million times. To be honest, I had a lot of Beatles records (given to me via a huge collection (probable 400 7" records 33/45/78) when I was a kid from kinfolks that had their kids move out and leave them).... I played everything of course, until my cheap kid's record player turned the records into dust (literally the needle was that bad, it ate the records). I couldn't tell you which Beatles records I had, but I wished I had not killed them (I didn't know needles needed changing at the time).
For you I gave the video a quick go-through and the CGI was interesting... I don't understand CGI, did they take a original video and animate it? Just seems if they made it out of thin air, they sure do a good job of making the movement seem natural. I recognized about half the songs. Always hated "Come together" with a passion. "Something" was a good song to be honest. "She's so Heavy" is pretty cool but drags to long. "Here Comes the Sun" is a good song. "Carry that Weight" chorus was always catchy, but that was about all I liked.
I think what finished The Beatles off in my world was Castro doing a statue in Lennon's memory (because his political views). I just wanted nothing to do with the group, kind of like when you eat something that sours your stomach, and you don't want it again. If I was honest, a lot of my 80s groups probable are just as bad, but because I didn't take time to study their politics, I hypocritically give them a pass.
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imho, the Beatles are one of the hardest to review. You did a great job.
Since I more or less checked out after Rubber Soul and Revolver, I enjoyed it. And I knew most of the excellent songs. :laugh:
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imho, the Beatles are one of the hardest to review. You did a great job.
Since I more or less checked out after Rubber Soul and Revolver, I enjoyed it. And I knew most of the excellent songs. :laugh:
Very kind to say. Works by The Beatles have been so parsed, interpreted, and discussed in so detail, sometimes you wonder how useful it is to share.
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EW&F day!!!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gs069dndIYk
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:thumbsup:
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To be honest I had skipped the Beatles video, never was a big fan for various reason, though I have heard [and somewhat liked] countless instrumental versions of their songs a million times. To be honest, I had a lot of Beatles records (given to me via a huge collection (probable 400 7" records 33/45/78) when I was a kid from kinfolks that had their kids move out and leave them).... I played everything of course, until my cheap kid's record player turned the records into dust (literally the needle was that bad, it ate the records). I couldn't tell you which Beatles records I had, but I wished I had not killed them (I didn't know needles needed changing at the time).
For you I gave the video a quick go-through and the CGI was interesting... I don't understand CGI, did they take a original video and animate it? Just seems if they made it out of thin air, they sure do a good job of making the movement seem natural. I recognized about half the songs. Always hated "Come together" with a passion. "Something" was a good song to be honest. "She's so Heavy" is pretty cool but drags to long. "Here Comes the Sun" is a good song. "Carry that Weight" chorus was always catchy, but that was about all I liked.
I think what finished The Beatles off in my world was Castro doing a statue in Lennon's memory (because his political views). I just wanted nothing to do with the group, kind of like when you eat something that sours your stomach, and you don't want it again. If I was honest, a lot of my 80s groups probable are just as bad, but because I didn't take time to study their politics, I hypocritically give them a pass.
"Always hated "Come together" with a passion"
Always hated that one too. Still like the Beatles a lot. I doubt Lennon was as seriously leftist as Castro thought he was. Lennon certainly didn't live the average Soviet citizen.
I play a lot of Beatles music on my guitar. Can't help it if some truly awful people liked the Beatles. I heard Saddam Hussein loved ABBA. What are you going to do? :shrug:
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Robin Trower - Bridge of Sighs- (1974) *** 1/2
I have seen quite a few great blues/rock guitarist in my life, including , SRV, Johnny Winter, and Billy Gibbons, and several others, but one in particular I want to recognize that has someone been lost in the sands of times is the great Robin Trower. There was a period of time in the early to mid 1970's that record companies and their execs would hype the "New Hendrix". Trower fresh from Procol Harum fame, was the lastest installment in that process.
Robin Trower is definitely in that class, but when was the last time while listening to classic rock stations, do you hear any of his classic works especially from his second album (this one) or the subsequent one "For Earth Below". For me to pick one of these two was tough. Almost a coin toss. The only reason I chose Bridge, was because the best 3 from this one, is just a tad better than the latter. I also gave this one a nod, in that the solos seem more intense and technically tight. There were some crazy innovative ways that Trower made his Strat sing like no one had done since the man himself (Hendrix).
One thing that is a great sign of the power of a band, is its ability to create a wall of sound that mimics 5 vs 3. Even though this band is no way similar to ZZ Top in that respect, one very interesting similarity is its empcompassive feel that no note or moment is wasted. In fact, if you allow yourself to immerse yourself into the listen, you will get that same virtuoso vibe as you would during an intense Hendrix or SRV blues iteneration. In any case, I am thankful that he left Procol Harum, and unleashed some fantastic rock/blues fused masterpieces.
Fun Fact- Band had zero platinum albums, which I kind of found odd, considering how big he was back in the day
Side 1-
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Day of the Eagle- Marvelous blend, and marriage of blues and hard rock. Trower did a great job of picking of bassist James Dewar (from somewhat obscure band- Stone the Crows) for vocals. This is maybe the most rocking and less blues-ish number until the decressendos into a fading sun like decompress. Excellent. 2
Bridge of Sighs- Title Track intentionally channels RT's inner Hendrix. Song allows some nice peripheral percussion and a has that majestic feel in what feels like a slow mo, blowing, and I mean slow rolling blues classic. I had almost forgotten how good this album was. 4
In this Place- Song has a foundation that has tinges of the modern Soundgarden sound. Good one, but lower tier in the preference on the album. Listen to Black Hole Sun, and feel the simiarity. Or maybe its my imagination. 7
The Fool and Me- Another smoking blues tune, that RT absolutely has that Stratocaster singing. I've always stuck with my Gibsons for playing around (SG/LP), but songs like this make me want go out and binge on another ax. This is vintage Robin Trower. 5
Side 2-
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Too Rolling Stoned- Side 2 opens like a sledge hammer. I consider this easily one of the top 5 rock/blues tunes of the 1970's. You will swear you are hearing a 3 headed monster channeling Hendrix/SRV/RT, if you take in the final few minutes. This is transcendental blues at its best. And why this one doesn't get airplay on modern Classic Rock radio is a mystery. If you only have time to listen to one song on the album, this is the one. 1
About to Begin- This song has the misfortune of having to follow RT's greatest classic. And though it might appeal to the softer bluezy, and almost torchlighting jazzy feel, it just does check the boxes for me. 8
Lady Love- Strange add, as this more of a standard rock song of the era, versus what is in RT's roundhouse. Not bad, but out of place. 6
Little Bit of Sympathy- RT's takes a bit of an off tangent. He goes full bore with hard rock, with a crazy mix in that kind of Electric Ladyland territory. From a technique standpoint, this might be one of the most difficult work he did. I know I would have cramps in my hand if I could play this. The tonal drops along the frets are crazy good. 3
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q2afD0B0I-g (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q2afD0B0I-g)
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Not being a huge fan of Procol Harem, I was unaware of him. Thanks. He is a great guit picker. But there are a lot of great guit players. What makes them stand out, to me, is their voice.
Disclaimer: I'm a SRV and Satriano groupie. Their voices were/are distinctive.
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Disclaimer: I'm a SRV and Satriano groupie. Their voices were/are distinctive.
In the early '80's, I accidentally caught some of a SRV's show on 6th Street in Austin, back when it really was a great place for music. I was blown away with the what I felt was almost acrobatic, Hendrix like blues. In fact, I almost thought he was a Hendrix cover artist, as he played a couple of Hendrix' tunes from the era. Impressive though.
Then a few years later, Texas Flood came out, and I remember telling a friend who got the album...... I saw him, with about 50 other people in the bar. The acoustics were't so great, so I really didn't get a real feel on how crisp he was.
Satrini? Ultra-masterful guitar tactician, but one weakness is in songwritng skills, and again, that is just my opinion, because he sure does have a good fan base.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- UFO- Obession (1978) ***
Today's selection is somewhat of change of pace. I would pretty readily guess that almost born after 1965, has not heard this band. But these hardworking journeymen over 40+ years almost produced 2 dozen studio albums. The kind of view I give them, is maybe a moniker of one of the greatest back up bands in history. This band opened for almost everyone big in the 1970's and early 1980's. And this was a band as live, would give you your money's worth.
Very solid rocking band, that had good consistent albums, as produced. But, they just didn't get that one hot or series of hits that propelled other bands. Technically, they are very sound too. Maybe a tad too formulaic. And there is a certain degree of filler, in all their stuff, but I would be amiss, that no rock audiophile should ignore this solid band. of course, you can kind of discern of the similarity of their sound to other similar groups of the era. You can hear, Free, Zep, Priest, among several others.
To pick one from their catalog, it was a tossup between this one, and the prior year's Light's Out (1977). Chose this one, as the I kind of like the better cuts, and the riffs seem more concentrically centered and listenable. There are few stinkers, but I think and hope that you see that this was a band good enough not be be forgotten. No weak links in the lineup, songwriting is acceptable, but one has to realize that back in the 1970's there was a lot of competititon in the day for $ for albums and concerts. These guys just didn't make the final leap to stardom. But thanks for the music though.
Fun Fact: Another band with not only no platinum studio LP's, but gold either. Amazing that they had that level of unrequited love, and still had the longevity of 22 studio albums (1970-2017).
Side 1-
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Only You Can Rock Me- Best UFO tune, by far. Made it to No. 50, and a what a shame it did no better. Well constructed chaotic standard, and about as good AOR sound as you are going to find the era. Many other bands made lesser tunes than this that charted much higher. Which is just more proof that there are so many intangibles in the music business dictating success. 1
Pack it Up (And Go). Very hard rocking that checks all the boxes, but doesn't too well trying to build on repeti-riff. A couple nice searing solos that sadly lean up against a Spinal Tap like bass/drum line. 4
Arbory Hill- Off tuned, flute(?), Recorder (?) that starts Tullish ditty , that morphs quickly into a Judas Priest stuff. Nope. 10
Ain't No Baby- Made the Priest reference, and there isn't an ingenious bit or innovative note in this. 8
Lookin' Out For No. 1- Obligatory ballad that works pretty weill outside their center expertise. Solos have more soul on this one, instead of fretting gymnatstics. 5
Side 2-
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Hot n' Ready- Solid Opening on Side 2. i enjoy how they mixed this one, with more equity for all parts, instead the standard blaring guitar. Though, outside opener, the tune ends with some pretty strong ax work. 2
Cherry- I understood the need for band versatility to be displayed, but often that effort is not good. In this song it is a mix of good and bad, with some really neat hooking and soloing to at least save it. 6
You Don't Feel Me- Very nice of some blues influsion that set this one apart from the rest of the album. Still a little too formulaic to meet my taste. Sadly UFO made at least a dozen or two other songs, that are very similar. Saw a lot of this in their early stuff. 7
Looking Out For No. 1 (Reprise)- No idea why the bad would semi-rehash a minute spot like this. Seemed pretty pointless 9
One More For the Rodeo- Hard rocker, and an upper tier cut from the LP. One thing, you are noticing though, that there is such a consistent meter and feel to this music, you might kind of get an idea, that their lack of songwring breadth, just might be why this band never made it to its level of it's peers. 3
Born To Lose- Sappy ballad that recycles the melodic lines of Only You Can Rock Me. 11
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Omh4JmpYQTg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Omh4JmpYQTg)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Rare Earth- One World (1971) ***
Today's additon is an interesting LP of one of those successful rock bands that put a valid R&B stamp on their craft- Rare Earth. These guys still exist for the Casino Circut, and haven't made anything interesting in decades, but one would have to be amiss, not to at least give them some props for their contributions during the early 1970's.
And this is almost orchestriaic conglomerate of a band of no-names, as I counted close to 30 differeng lineups in their history. And kind of an anomoly in that this was a white band that broke the top 20 in both the Rock and R & B charts. That talent of versatility, though not a schtick or a novelty, did give them some nice airplay during the day. They were like War, but had that more of mainstream feel to them.
There is a streak of late '60's and early '70's anti American-ism and anti-war rhetoric in their music, which to me is points off of the equation. I understood the need to throw a number or two to be trendy with the time, but is some ways these guys over did it. I will let you be the judge of whether these guys have withstood the test of time. Some good stuff, but filler too.
Fun Fact: This album wasn't converted to an available CD format until 2015. Hmmmm. that''s one vote on legacy I guess.
Side 1-
What'd I Say- This Ray Charles number has been covered at least dozens of times, by many from different genres. Rare Earth does a great job holding true to the R & B vibe, while infusing a really good rock fill. What a pleasant surprise- 2
If I die- First installment on LP of Vietnam protest that falls flat. Band focuses more on message than song- 8
The Seed- Gotz that Curtis Mayfield thing going. Nothing really innovative besides that, and honestly, they can do better than mimicking Terry Kath's licks. Good band, but you aren't Chicago. 6
I Just Want to Celebrate- The band's most famous hit, and it is a fine one at that. perfect blend of Funk, R & B, and hot rocking magic. I'd bet 90% of the buying public bought this LP for it. I know I did. 1
Side 2-
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Someone To Love- Maybe the more standard rocking numbers on the album- Strong one, with a decent hook line, and a jamming that compliments the number well- 3
Any Man Can Be a Fool- Pointless blend of Chicago and Strawberry Alarm Clark. Fillersville. 7
The Road- Decent one that is stangley unique to RE's sound. Nice use of sync beats and with a funk edge. 5
Under God's Light- Bright Airy, pleasant one that kind of captured some of the religious stuff like some of what the Doobie Bro.'s did. End does an especailly nice job of capturing the jam. I liked it. 4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tQK6BZcaMAo (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tQK6BZcaMAo)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Yes- 90125 (1983) *****
There was a few moments in the early 1980's that there were a great many of us who felt that AOR rock was near dead. Punk and new wave had infliltrated the rock air waves in massive amounts, and a lot of the old classics were seeming to fade into the night. But... with the inevitable ebb and flow of fads in rock music, one axiom lives on no matter what. Great music, and great musicianship trumps all. By 1980, it is pretty much universally accepted that Yes was in such a slump with Tomato and Drama. No these weren't bad albums. Yes didn't ever make a bad album, but I think we all know that this drop off ended up in at least their short term demise. The great core of this band went on to other supergroups. Some with success, some with less.
But something incredible happened in 1982. The band regrouped and and hired a masterful songwriter named Trevor Babin. I know I have sang his praises previously, but what he added and brought to this band is nothing less than breathtaking. With 90125, a Yes album was produced unlike any other. It included drastic stylistic changes, but not at the expense of masterful musicanship. Pound per pound few if any bands are more talented than this one. Babin went on with this level of excellence for serveral more. As a guitaritst, he wasn't Steve Howe, but who else is, within the magic and legacy of this band. But OTOH, the drop wasn't as bad as many thought.
And when it hit the airwaves, my circle of friends went crazy. I had no less than 4 make it a point to make sure I had gotten a listen to this new and revitalized supergroup. And what really I loved is that the base of the old band, like Squire and Anderson not only embraced the new sound, they rose to the occasipn giving some of their best perfromances in near a decade. This is a hollywood story, where journeyman session guy finally gets recognized and becomes a superstar.
What is also special about this album is its level of consistence of excellence. There are almost no weak moments. Every cut has something to offer and add to the equation.
Fun Fact: Album name corresponds to it's Atlantic Record Catelog Number. There were rumours of other sinister reasons back in the day, but all urban legend.
Side 1-
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Owner of a Lonely Heart- Unique and powerful opening. The use of funk in a proggish, rocking manner was an absolute genius stroke and move by Babin. This song sounded unlike any other the band had created, and for a few die hards, they weren't pleased in what at that time seemed like a possible commerical sell out. But in my opinion, it was the opposite. This song and its ultra-interesting mix of style, and delivery just let the world know that this band was back- 2
Hold On- To quell the purist concerns, the second entry provided a more tradtional, though rocking angle to the band's portfolio. Sync rthymed allternating with a bluesy tinge, was another spot on endeavor. Off centered chorus at the line is a songwriting feat. 5
It Can Happen- Originally, I wasn't too pleased with the sitar'ed opening and melodic center. But in hindsight, the technological slant on this particular number was ingenious, Solid Solid tune. 4
Changes- First example of Babin influences, with his African Xylophone electronic like semi-bass line. Maybe a tad weaker on the whole of the LP, but still and excellent example of this band's great work. This was not an easy compostion to perform to say the least. 8
Side 2-
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Sinema- Interesting hard rocking instrumental that in a lot of ways plays into the next song, Kind in a way like Foreplay leads into Long Time for Boston. When listening to this albums these songs beyond in natural order. Don't mess with it (Hint to classic rock radio stations) 6
Leave It- Some of the best harmonies and unique songwriting in Yes' career. Fantastic blend of styles including rock, prog, funk, and even acapella. A masterpiece, and a song with it's level of simplistic, but so complex, and powerful. 1
Our Song- Even as the weakest tune on the LP, this is a technoloigical masterpiece. No weakeness on this album, and just another reason this gets a well deserved 5 star rating. 9
City of Love- FX laden good number that has that Big Generator feel to it. Very complex song on so many levels. More excellent harmonies, that are maybe the biggest halmarks of this one. 7
Hearts- Album closes with a highly Anderson influenced song. This great one rollicks along from the ethereal to heavy rocking, to a downrigtht Anderson like Spirtual voyage. (Early '70's like) 4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CdJt_0yv49E (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CdJt_0yv49E)
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I have always credited Bob Seeger with saving the world from Disco.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Loverboy- Get Lucky (1981) ***
There was a point in time when Canada got some serious players in rock and roll in the late '70' and early 1980's. None of them had the following or skills of Rush, but these bands including Loverboy, April Wine, Tragically Hip, and Triumph enjoyed a lot of chart play that was bery respecable for the time. One theme over and over with these bands, is that none really had "named talent" that stood out, and none of even their front men really are name recognizable.
These bands had a good grasp of what AOR was all about. Got strong hooked thunderous songs, with that obligatory mix of ballads and mainstays that at the time where so dependant on MTV for not only exposure, but impetus for getting airplay in the first place. I always found that it was ironic that one of the first videos aired was "Video Killed the Radio Star". Truth is, is that if you couldn't get that two headed monster of MTV and record company, to not only invest in your studio time, this period dictated some level of video prodcution. Now, so many of these are archaic, and downright silly. But it was the way things were done in the day
Loverboy started really strong, with their first 4 LP's all charting in the Top 20, then the band pretty much croaked with the last 6 dust bin destined. All four of the first part of their catalog had plenty to offer, but this one to me seemed the most consistent, and with the least filler. I think you will find that this is an excellent example of the times, and what we say and heard in the era. An it was nice to still have bands and music at the time that wasn't UK Wuss, or New Wave.
Fun fact: In 1980, to support their debut album, the band did over 200 shows as openers. 200 shows in a year, is not as easy a task as one might think.
Side 1-
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Working For the Weekend- One of the band's big hits, and and a no hards barred rollicking synth driven number that hits a homer -2
When It's Over- Another of the band's charting hits. Good standard AOR stuff. 3
Jump- Not to be confused with the VH version. Still more good consistent and innovative songwriting. 5
Gangs in the Street- Attempted keyboard wizardry just doesn't quite hit the mark. Significant drop off. 8
Emotional- Interesting almost 50's like rock-a-billy effort. Not great, but didn't suck either- 7
Side 2-
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Lucky Ones- Excellent. Title track, and it this one gives it justice- 4
Its Your Life- Ever hear a song, that has hooks thatvare so forced and contrived tbat they come across as silly. Filler with a capital F. 9
Watch Out- Obligatory Balladish song, that misses the mark. Always puzzled me why AOR acts had to think, plan, and execute something that most were really shitty at. 6
Take Me to the Top- Just when you thought this LP was going down the drain with a fizzle, the band ends the work with an absolute early 80's classic. I can remember many times back in 1981, turning this sucker up to 11 and blasting the opening bass heavy laden synth riffs. Interplaying nice wah wahing guitar riffs augmenting this song just propel it further up the eschelons of bad-assery. 1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9V0AbjDk2O4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9V0AbjDk2O4)
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Friday Night Rock and Roll Poll-
Dave or Sammy?
My choice? Hagar. The VH catalog is weaker in the latter half of their career, but i think that is more on Eddie than the supporting cast. But for voice, and songwriting, Sammy has the nod. Diamond Dave does win, as far as Front Man stage presence.
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Friday Night Rock and Roll Poll-
Dave or Sammy?
My choice? Hagar. The VH catalog is weaker in the latter half of their career, but i think that is more on Eddie than the supporting cast. But for voice, and songwriting, Sammy has the nod. Diamond Dave does win, as far as Front Man stage presence.
Depends on the mood. Party hardy--Dave, Party Lite--Sammy
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Friday Night Rock and Roll Poll-
Dave or Sammy?
My choice? Hagar. The VH catalog is weaker in the latter half of their career, but i think that is more on Eddie than the supporting cast. But for voice, and songwriting, Sammy has the nod. Diamond Dave does win, as far as Front Man stage presence.
Ugh. What a choice!
Dave was the ultimate showman, but his vocals were unpredictable. Sammy’s vocals have been constant, but stage-presence nothing spectacular.
Sammy gets kudos for his vocals with Montrose and as a solo artist. I vote Sammy.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Heart- Bad Animals. (1987) ***
I have wanted to add a Heart LP to review for some time, but the YT/Vevo fascists have prevented playing in entirety the one I felt had the most impact, power, and legacy- Their debut Dream Boat Annie. When these front ladies hit the scene with this album in 1975, they at first glance had what would be considered I guess an effect schtick. A band with two gorgeous babes killing it. Yeah, I was enamored too, but once you get the wrapper off the album, you see that there is more to this act than visual beauty.
The Wilson sisters, don't tend to get the props considering that both were true talent. No, Nancy wasn't (isn't) Page or EVH, but I can easily see her in the top 1/3 of all rock guitaritst of the day. When I saw her in concert, her solos were sharp, fast, and very true to studio versions. The other supporting members through their changes have all been a decent supporting cast. And Ann? A voice worthy and sutable for operatic career.
It might seem a bit odd to choose and review a latter career CD (yep post LP in my collection) of a band that was so dominant 10 years earlier. But this particular piece, is so very solid and consistent. Perfect? No. But this is really good example of a comeback effort that honestly did very well on charts and the MTV-isphere.
Fun Fact: Heart had 7 multi-platinum LP's/CD's in their career
Track No.
---------------
1. Who Will you Run too- Out of the gate, .... a classic. This is such a fine rock and roll number, on so many levels. A bastion of AOR with enough modern phrasing to give it that fresh '80's feel. 1
2. Alone- This tune, plus the previous album (Heart) "These Dreams," are classics. These are so beloved that they both charted No 1's as singles. These have Ann Wilson at her absolute professional best. Incredible power and range. I think she took these two efforts as a personal challenge, in response to some critics speculating that her weight game was impacting the lungs. Didn't happen, and these at least two in succession can have an argument as some of the greatest rock ballads ever made. 2
3. There's the Girl- Very 80's synthy rock. Not bad, but lower tier. 6
4. I wan't You So Bad- Another ballad, but nothing like Alone.... not even close. 8
5. Wait For an Answer- Got to hand it to the band, to try new and unusual, but this is so off their feel, this doesn't cut it. 9
6. Bad Animals- You usually expect something from your Title Track, pleasant workings, and strange voice like synth that was pretty unusual for the time 5
7. You A'int So Tough- Another oddity for a turn that seems to almost even have a Prince like backing sound. Some of Ann's best improv like voicing over. 3
8. Strangers of the Heart- Another beautiful ballad, though seems a bit more forced, and not as good of augmentation between the voice and instruments. And honestly, if this didn't have Ann Wilson's pipes, I am guessing it would so like any '80's hair band sappy ballad that polluted the airwaves during the day. 7
9. Easy Target- Harkens at least stye wise more to their 1970's stuff. Hooky AOR, but with not as much "Heart". Anyone else get that Take to Me the River musical phrasing 4
10. RSVP- Pointless. Should have stopped at 9 cuts. This adds nothing to the album. 10
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-doxB3oSH0k (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-doxB3oSH0k)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- The Hooters- Nervous Night- (1985) ***
I have mentioned several times about that void we all witnessess and endured in the 1980's. Good sound AOR had been for good or bad replaced with UK Wussery, hair bands, New Wave, and several other itinerations and variations of. That doesn't mean there wasn't any good music. It was just harder to find. This was also the time that our old standbys of FM Radio started to fade from view.
Tonight's installments, "The Hooters" do genre wise are pretty close to what was being the norm at the time. However, this band had a nice knack of hook and some decent songwriting skills. And much like a lot of other bands I recently covered, there really wasn't one standout star or household name. They did howerver came up with some catchy of what I kind of consider latter-new wave, but with enough homage to traditonal rock to keep it interesting.
This was kind of a flash in the pan situtation, in their hay day, they only made about 5 studio albums, and only a couple charted. This way did much better than other efforts, and by far. It also didn't hurt matters that the band made a couple of interesting videos that did well on M-TV. But again, this is not great band, but they did make one fine album. And to make it easy, I suggest only listening to the first 3 cuts. 3 others are decent, and three given filler consideration.
Fun Fact: This was such an example of a on ehit wonder. This album was double platinum. Only one other reached gold "the subsequent" and that was barely.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PDOBlzmAbow (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PDOBlzmAbow)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Rush- Roll the Bones- (1991) *****
Ever have one of those albums that slowly and consistently grows in fondness as time passes. Back in the day, I used to usually buy Rush LP's,CD's easily within a month of release. When I unwrapped this CD in haste and anticipation, I expected. pretty much a continuation of the synth, power chording fare seen earlier in Presto, Hold Your Fire, and Power Windows. Since Rush typically made an album ever other year as habit, I pretty much expected something similar. not that the previous three were pleasantly stagnantly similar.... They were great . But stylisitcally seemed pretty consistent with a few exceptions.
But shit... What the hell was this? Not that I was totally disappointed, but the inclusion of funk infusion and rap, at the time seemed too much for me. In fact, at the time, I likely would have given this 3 stars at its onset. And Geddy rapping on the album? I did feel a level of betrayal, that these guys went off the deep end in the name of experimentation. 2 more years? Damn.
I never thought this album suffered from musicanship or songwriting at face value. These guys were perfectionist in their craft. But with all of greatest bands, the line between experimentive direction is rife with danger. No.... I never had put this album in the category of "Love Beach", but I have to admit I was initially seriously disappointed. In disgust, I sat the CD on its designated spot in storage for probably the next 7-10 years, as the case accumulated dust.
Then one day in the early 2000's, I heard "The Big Wheel" on FM radio, and my curiosity was peaked to give it another listen. And since, my love of this work has grown. In fact, I'll go on record that if there is one Rush Album to own from the 1990's- 2010's.... this is the one. Almost all the cuts seemed considerably better than I remembered. Yes, I may have matured a bit, and with a more in depth listen, I finally got what the guys were doing. And yes it was a masterpiece.
Fun Fact: Last Rush studio album that reached Platinum status.
Side 1-
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Dreamline- A fan favoire for their latter tours. The most standard soundiing rocking sound on the LP. Great musicanship, and inspiring fare. At this point, you and with previous examples you realize Peart has totally abandoned his full flare for full progged efforts. The Snow Dog died long ago folks. Still..... there is some some pretty bad ass riffing and rolling going on with the 3. 5
Bravado- Melancholy tinged almost ballad, but not ballad. Sometimes Peart took the philosophical thing to extreme. Very listenable, but not their best work 7
Roll The Bones- The title track, and well...... Where do I start. Ask me in 1991, I would have told you that this was Geddy's, Alex's, and Neil's sell out moment to fads. Today, I understand it's full back handed exestential slant and message. I also can tell you that though the rapping and funky slap is now as fresh and clean sounding as anything those genre's have offered before and since. 3
Face Up- I usually don't pan the band for rehashing earlier stuff, but the main riffs and meter of the song song vaguely similar to "Super Conductor" previously from Presto. It obviously is enough different, but this seemed a tad strange for this band. 8
Where's My Thing (Part IV, Gangster of Boats Trilogy)- Maybe the best part of reserrecting this album was reaquainting myself with this absolute masterful instrumental. It really grew with me over time, and now ranks No. 2 in my book at least as their greatest instrumental. (behind Lavilla Strangiato) The band pulls our all stops in this gritty but also melodic funk tinged blast. Do you like it when all hell breaks lose with the master of their trade? You've come to the right song. How the band structured such beautiful chordal progressions as a back drop with such instrument wizardry is mind blowing. 2
Side 2-
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The Big Wheel- The iconic mainstay of the LP. Funky themes still prevail, but with just a smidgen of hooks added, and the best lyrical messaging of the last 1/3 of their career? The back alley grit feel of the non-chorus aspects just melds this tune into a surreal tapestry of two intertwined similar themed, but conflicted example of superior, I mean ultra superior songwriting. 1
Heresy- Anthem sounding with bagpipe like distant fare. My heartburn is that in some ways this song didn't sound like it belonged here. I know this isn't a full fledged prog album, but to me it is not a fit. Bottom line it is a decent song on a great album. 9
Ghost of a Chance- One of my biggest Rush mysteries. This was one of two chosen as singles for release. Weakest tune on the album IMO. Contemporary feel that I sure didn't like.10
Nuerotica- Not particularly a great song, but it does have some of Lifeson's most interesting solos on the LP. 6
You Bet Your Life- Album finishes strong, with a weird but effective reggae-ish, new wave -ish quick paced romp that is really unique to Rush's catalog. Wailing and fading ax work by Lifeson is very effective. 4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1OIrEt9YJow (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1OIrEt9YJow)
And... my favorite Peart solo on YT, and from this album
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKIc20Liw3c (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKIc20Liw3c)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- The Offspring- Splinter- (2003) ***
Mostly unnotced and enjoyable in the process of fatherhood was my openess to listening to the music of my children. Thankfully, they were just as open minded to recognizing the likes of Rush, Yes, The Who, and AC-DC as examples. On the flip side there were some interesting bands in their youth like Blink 182, Sum 41, Blur, Social Distortion, Stone Roses,,3rd Eye Blind, and this band as examples.
Of course, just between you and me, good music post say 1980 was getting harder and harder to find. But I will go on record that if you looked and listened hard enough, you'll find some. By 2000 it was really getting tough. There was basically no AOR that we enjoyed in the day. Our bands pretty much became relics of the past, and by many kids in the day looked at with disdain. Long hair, and standard rock riffs, solos, etc. were part of a bygone era.
This particular band "The Offspring" were popular right smack in the middle of what I call the Alpha-Numeric Nuevo- Punk era. Blink was the best of genre, but bands like this really held their own in the market. First, and foremost, I am sure everyone understands that Punk, and especially modern punk is the antithesis of the beauty, grandiose, and wonderment of Prog. No, there aren't any of what I would call musical maestros out in this era, but just as in the heyday of the "Ramones", punk when done crisply, hookly, and with humour is an excellent guilty pleasure. As much as enjoyed the Ramones, punk is always heard best in short quantities. No difference here, with their modern descendants.
As with many bands in the vicintiy of that time, there really aren't any well known or recognizable memebers. In their radio timeframe say '89-'03, they made 7 albums, with what looks like 6 different lineups. Musically, I consider them upper tier of the Modern Punk era, but what kind of sets them apart is their songwriting hooks and lyrics are among the best of the times. From listening to their catalog, there is definite a left leaning bias, see "Neo-con" below, but what sets them apart is they do have some really decent lampooning of some social issues that anything but liberal.
As good and funny as this album, there is good amount of filler. Sadly the band on this and other albums create songs that are so repetitive sounding, that you'd think it was a joke. Slash punk at 120 bps? There are about 3 or 4 songs on this that outside some mid-discussed sounds, create a repetitive drivel. So, only 8 of the 12 of these will have narratives.
Fun Fact: The Offspring catalog includes the 8th and 9th highest selling units in Punk History. "Smash" and "Americana"....both at about 11M
Track No.
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1. Neocon- First the ridiculous, and stupidest aspect of the LP. To clock into their punk left leaning repetiore, the create a short goosestepping anthem sounding POS as an opener. I'd guess these idiots don't even know what a "Neocon" is. 8
2. The Noose is Falling- An acutal speed punk tune that hits the mark. If you listen to the rest of the album, you might come to conculsion that they are repeating the same song. Nope. But in this one, it does have social merit, and a lot of what they scream here, has merit. But not for their side. 4
4. Hit That- And now the first gem. Very candid musical op-ed on the state of how sexual mores are destroying us and the famiy unit. Surprising to see a left leaning band put that lyrically. Maybe there is hope for some. 3
Verse 2
What was a family, is now a shell
We're raising kids now who raise themselves
Sex is a weapon, it's like a drug
It gets him right into that grave that he just dug
5. Race Against myself- This one sure has a Green Day -American Idiot feel to it. Except this band is better at it more than half the time. 6
6. (Can't Get My) Head Around You- Excellent self evaluation around the pitfuls of relationships. Heavy sounding well managed punk-scream that. It rocks, and one of the better sounds of the LP. 2
7. The Worst Hangover Ever- Neat and unique Caribbean ska/reggae number that effectively encapsulated what many of us have felt after a few too many. 5
10. Spare Me the Details- Another absolutely fantastic take on social sexual and alcohol commentary. Great hooks, hilarious lyrics. don't think The Offspring ever made this level of melodic excellence anywhere else. Very innovative partial inclusion of screaming with anger, just adds to the mix. My favorite by the band. 1
12. When You are iin Prison.- Wow, it just doesn't get any more bizare than this. Band adds a track that is dangers of Prison Life that is almost jaw dropping. Song is a 1920's (including record crackling) Jolson like crooning that just adds a new level of strangeness. 7
Balance of the CD is filler and all the songs are pretty much interchangable with themsleves.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U03r__mxtyo (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U03r__mxtyo)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Creedence Clearwater Revival- Cosmo Factory (1970) *****
Outside the Beatles, probaby not one other band has crowded in such a short period of time such great and amazing songwriting skills and hit making than the iconic band CCR. This band pretty much defined my early teens, as they took good old fashioned rock and roll, a touch of blues, and added a rural sensibility that had massive appeal nation wide. As far as I am concerned Country Music woudn't sound like it does today without CCR, and to a certain additional degree, The Eagles.
Many of us in this age group spent countless hours singing along with such great tunes that domintated even AM radio at the time. CCR was unique in how it blended, or maybe arguably blurred the lines between genres. The Fogerty Bro's were genius in giving what almost seems to be a soundtrack to the Vietnam War, and phenomemon of hippiedom leaving left the west coast, and permeating into suburban and rural America. And don't get me started on the band's knack for appeal. Hell, even my mother liked this band. How can you not.
I had previously reviewed my favorite CCR LP, Willy and the Poor Boys, and with its subsequent release Cosmo's Factory the band made a massive statement that there would be no lull in their creativity and ability to connect with their fan base. What I love is stylistically these albums are very similar, though enough difference to the tell that the band was still growing in abiility. Their music is not complex at all, but with just enough hook, a boatload of soul, and the ability to hit what America wanted at the time? It was just what the doctor ordered. And I am sure you probably know.... Like Willy, there is no filler on this LP. Just classic rock and roll and a sound that has not been replicated on vinyl in heart, soul, and genre bending excellence.
Fun Fact: 6 songs from this LP charted in the Top 5 on the Charts. Amazing. The kind of chart dominance only seen normally by the Beatles.
Side 1-
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Ramble Tamble- Fine renditon of a blend of styles, including Rock-a-billy, blues, and country. Some absolutely beautiful melodic almost psychadelic like dual guitar blending, that only CCR could pull off with success. Their sound had an aura around it, that was magical. The fact that Ramble Tamble wasn't listed a single, (too long?) was incredible. How the song decresendos while speeding up, and morphing into a country like finish? It was a unique touch. 5
Before You Accuse Me- Maybe the most pure blues number on the LP. Great job, but when you realize how great this song is, and still maybe the weakest song on the album. I'll say it again- Magic. 11
Travelin' Band- Rollicking rocker that gets hit out the park again. This one might have some of Doug Clifford's best drum work, and mashes up with a searing guitar and sax solo mid point. 6
Ooby Dooby- 50's rockabilly cover classic, where the band give homage to their musical roots. Many might not know that CCR's roots go back to the '50's. And they didn't forget that aspect of their repertoire 10
Lookin' Out My Back Door- Band's just showing off at this point, out C & W-ing the best of that genre at the time. 8
Run Through the Jungle- What a great tune. Perfect mix of blues and rock, with a forboding tone. Some great jamming just south of Grapevine territory. 4
Side 2-
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Up Around the Bend- Great opening riffs that just in their listen harkens me back to 1970. Great Great Rock song. The layered chording John Forgerty is bad ass. Song is as great and fresh as it was 50+ years ago. 1/2 (tie)
My Baby Left Me- Another pure, pure and hard core Rock-a-billy number that sure could have been released as a hit in 1958. Has that "That's Alright Mama" Elvis feel to it. 9
Who'll Stop the Rain- Beautiful, almost ballad like, ultra simply played song, that is highlighted by JF's bellowing voice, with absolute perfection in the harmonies. When I was young, this one was a little too soft for my tastes. In retrospect, and as an older listener.... This song in its essence is genius and one of the best cuts on the album. 1/2 (tie)
Heard it Through Grapevine- Here, the same band that does blues, rockabilly, rock, and country decides to do a masterful rendition of this Motown Hit. This one, and it is long at 11 minutes contains some of the best jamming sessions that the band gave in their brief career. To this day, I got to give props to the Fogerty Brothers, it took balls to do a cover that what really wasn't in a style that they were used to. But honestly their version, Marvin Gaye, and Gladys Knight and the Pips are very different in sound. 3
Long As I Can See the Light- Slow rolling bluesy sax filled ballad. Boots Randolph was popular at the time, and JF did a nice job of capturing the moment in his own unique and spectacular way. Best sax work in their JF's career IMO. 7
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gy--CbN9__k (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gy--CbN9__k)
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happy77 happy77 happy77
Say hi to last night's Rock Trivia contest winner. So what if it was only a $25 gift card. :king:
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Aerosmith- Get Your Wings (1974) *** 1/2
Today's installment completes what was the first of the Aerosmith Excellence Hat Trick of the Mid 1970's. The three albums including Get Your Wings- Toys in the Attic- Rocks were an apex of hard rock that very easily propelled them out of what a lot of critics were calling a cheap American Rolling Stones. From my POV, by time these 2nd, 3rd, and 4th albums completed their run at record stores, they'd surpassed that level. Am I calling Aerosmith better than the Stones? Not necessarily, but their appeal and breadth of their take on rock? They did from my perspective.
Aerosmith's debut had a slow and NE U.S. cult following at first, but got much more play, after the subsequent 2 LP's. The step change between the debut album and this one is quite remarkable. Self Titled had much more of a garage band feel to it, and Steven Tylers's voice especially improved, as did their was a huge step change in their song writing abilities. Dream On on the first album was of course an excellent cut, but the rest of the LP was uneven to weak. Joe Perry in his on right was as good on the ax as any of his American counterparts at the time. I give them the honor of being one of the first and best purveyors of hard rock edged blues that didn't seem like a bizarre encounter. (ZZ Top as an exception of course).
At the anecdotal level, I have a funny memory to share on this one. In my local hometower Pool Hall, when the Juke Box would play "Train Kept A Rollin", dozens of denziens would yell "Spaced" "Spaced" "Spaced" in absolute unison. It was almost like a screamed Gregorian Chant, and stange as hell. I kind of blew it off, until about the 5th or 6th time I heard this. My curiosity finally got the best of me, and I asked why they were yelling "Spaced" One of my friends laughed at me, and said..... "You don't know the name of this song"? To amusement I found that the operator of the Juke Box had mixed up A/B sides on the 45, and a 100 patrons were misled. Owner was a Juke Box Zero I guess. </pun off>
I probably can't end this review without some kind of Paul Harvery, The End of the Story aspect. After these 3 albums of '74-'76, Aerosmith took a significant fall in quality and quantity. By the late 1970's, an album never more aptly named "In the Ruts" had pretty much documented the demise of what was (is) a legendary band. Drugs, and excesses had taken their toll, like many oothers in their business. Of course this wasn't the real end. They enjoyed a huge almost nostalgic resurgence by the late 1980's. Honestly, I didn't buy into it, as the latter product was significantly more commerical, exponentially less edgy, and pretty much not worth the effort. My last purchase of an Aerosmith album was in 1977, with Draw the Line which in quantity was a shadow of it's predecessors.
Get Your Wings does have a few weak cuts, and why the less than perfect rating. Still, this is an era of a really really good band that can not be ignored by history. And this album secures that legacy.
Fun Fact: I found it very strange that this album only chart peaked at No. 74, and Toys at 11. I know I dissed modern Aerosmith, but their last 6 albums all made it into the Top 5. So my opinion obviously doesn't match most of the buying listening pubiic.
Fun Fact No. 2: No Aerosmith album charted in the UK until 1987. Talk about being late to the game, and putting their snobby noses up to those nasty Yanks
Side 1-
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Same Old Song and Dance- Great opening tune, and fantastic lead/rthym ax interplay between Perry and Whitford. Right out of the gate, you can tell that this is a much more stronger and crisper sound that came from their debut act. I love slide guitar when infused into a chaotic rock blasting machine. 2
Lord of the Thighs- Opening Drum start much similar to what you would hear with "Walk This Way", but this song obviously is much different. In the 2020's this number would be considered misogynistic as hell, as were many in the day. Good, Bad, or Ugly, that just was the way it was back in the 1970's. A mid level tune in the scheme of this. Obviously not filler, but other's shine better. 5
Spaced- Song starts as advertised, with "spacey" macrabe sounding FX. Following the gimmickry is a weaker more pedistrian sounding effort. Yeah, I'd file this one in the filler category 8
Woman of the World- Outiside some interesting Perry licks, a weak finish to Side 1. Nothing innovative on this track. 7
Side 2-
---------------
S.O.S. (Too Bad)- The least blues based song on the LP. The band lets loose on a straight rocking effort that does a nice job of intertwining solo guitaring with a decent hard rock melodic base line. 4
Train Kept a Rollin- My favorite Aerosmith song. Yes, this is a blues remake, but IMO they greatest hard rocking blues re-make from this side of the pond. This is one that made me a fan. Perry's guitar work here, significantly mimics Page, and this one, and maybe just this one, hits the mark as well as the great one himself. I am guessing it was no accident that Perry wanted a Les Paul to blast these massively fast solos. Excellent indeed. Very few hard rocking /bluezy numbers made you move as much as this one. They may have not written it, but they made it a classic masterpiece. 1
Seasons of Whither- Ever have an album, that after one song another just seems like a massive letdown. Following Train was an impossible task. This was kind of the obligtory ballad which was standard for the era. At the time this one didn't do much for me, but after 50 years, I can see that this was a lot better from a music value perspective. This was not their normal fare, but in some nostalgic way this is more endearing in what I think the band was trying accomplish. 3
Pandora's Box- Not exactly a weak ending , but nothng special. 6
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RKvT7mr59RQ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RKvT7mr59RQ)
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Just a note:
The spouse and I are heading east for 5 holiday days to the ancestral home. Which Rx at least from spouse POV is about technological detox, and a break from politics. No TV's., no computer, etc. Just books, board games (Scrabble), and a warm fireplace.
I hope everyone has a good Thanksgiving. happy77
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Styx- Pieces of Eight (1978) **** 1/2
Several months ago, when I wanted to choose a Styx album for review, it was pretty much a coin flip between this one, and "The Grand Illusion". And it was a tough call indeed, as both these albums released within a 14 month period were the eptimome of grandeur, and American Prog at its very best. Styx and Kansas were a 2 horse race of supremacy that were our country's answer to Yes, Tull, among others. This 1977-1978 timeframe, and I might add '75's Equinox for me is best 3 album grouping in American Prog history, though a strong argument could be made for Kansas' Left Overture and Point of Know Return as a counter.
Grand Illusion and Pieces of 8 too, had some of Equinox's hard edge, and gave newcomer Tommy Shaw a chance to flex the band's Prog talents. No, there is no epic Suite Madam Blue heavy rocking sound, but actually you are starting to see, unfortunatley I might add, the beginning of Dennis DeYoung (DDY)'s influence and stranglehold on the band's creativity. Subsequent albums to these 2, were utter disasters, and what ultimately made their fan base abandon them en masse. Styx by the early 80's had become synonymous to Rock and Roll Suicide. Granted, the band was still selling a boat load of records, but those tallies were angry fans, and a new breed of fan that was more an animal of pop rock, than good solid rock and roll. Shit, like Cornerstone, Paradise Theatre and Kilroy were like a cruel joke. And at least to me, were a low point of seeing how a great band can sell out, and give the finger to those loyal fans. The unraveling was hard to watch, By 1982 I detested DDY, and didn't even care about his previous contributions.
There really isn't much difference style wise between Grand Illusion and Pieces of 8. You do see a gradual increase in Tommy Shaw's hand, and sadly less of James Young. Young IMO, was the greatest member of the band, and I have never found out why he so gradually backed off. And one can't do a decent review without mentioning the Panozzo brothers contributions to the bass line. The other 3 members shared the limelight, while these two guys provided much much above average competence that stealthly gave their majestic wall of sound feel to their brand of prog. So, props to them, and I hope everyone realizes their would not have been Styx without their tireless contributions.
And last without stealing much thunder from the review, is the fact that DDY's I'm Okay, provides the most powerful and beautiful moments in their entire catalog. I have mentioned many times on this thread, that if I had to pick the most beautiful sounding instrument on earth, it would be hands down, a Cathedral Church Organ. The solo-ing and final chorus of this tune, is one of a small handfull of tunes that give me chills when I crank up the speakers to the proverbial Spinal Tap "11". As far as I know, only Emerson and Wakeman were adventerous enough to experiment with the walls of pipe. That song alone, is worth an audiophile giving this one a shot.
And one last general comment, If there is one difference in P/8 and Grand Illusion is that it is easier to discern on a listen who lead the songwriting among JY/DD/Shaw. Which kind of in a way says that the collaboration factor must have dropped on this one.
Fun fact: Was surprised that none of the released singles from the album charted in the Top 20. Even though the previous LP, and subsequent 4 had several.
Side 1-
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Great White Hope- LP comes out rocking. Great piece by JY that gives an early glimpse that the band hasn't exactly forgotten their heavy riffing, rocking days. Song does a great job chronicling what an aspiring under dog, boxer. Fantastic bass line mimicing a fighter hitting the bags. JY's growling lyrics just adds the magic. If you were a purist of early '70's Styx, this was probably your choice. 5
I'm Okay- As stated earier, this and maybe Suite Madame Blue are my absolute favorite Styx songs. I'm just going to ask that you listen to it (loud) and get your reaction if you have never heard it. Listening to it today after years, made my day, and memories galore. Yeah, its a DDY number, but it was a massive creative home run. And not a single I might add. 1
Sing For the Day- Pleasant Shaw ballad. A hit, and I know plenty who thought that this was an essential cut the LP. But for me, this is not why I listened to Styx. Don't get me wrong. Not filler for sure, but a weaker cut that was almost a 5 star album. 8
The Message/Lord of the Rings- I grouped these two as I think this is was the intent of the band. The Message was Synth FX, while the latter was pretty much captialization of the LOTR fad back when I was in College. This one was pretty much gimmickry and pedestrian. Again, not filler, but the weakest point in the album. Too much fluff, and no substance. 9
Side 2-
----------------
Blue Collar Man (Long Nights)- Tommy Shaw's maybe most rocking contribution to Styx. Though strangely it must have had at least tad of JY influence stylistically. Best part of this one is some of the subtle guitar interplay between Shaw and Young. You have to listen carefully, but it some pretty masterful ax work. 4
Queen of Spades- Great DDY ballad that starts and lightly flows into a bombastic rocking gem. If there was one that was a collaboration between JY and DDY, this had to be the one. You can very easily discern the mix of their styles. The balladry and hell raising guitar licks that marked Styx's career? It's here. Best guitar work in the LP for sure. The ending synth work was a nice touch too. 3
Renegade- Tommy Shaw's signature hard rocker. I'd probably started liking it somewhat better, but it got badly overplayed in my circle of friends in the day. No one can doubt it's greatness in the Styx-I-verse at the time though. 7
Pieces of Eight- Absolutely one of the most beautiful and powerfully delivered Styx songs ever made. This one has somewhat of a Suite Madame Blue feel to it, and just about as majestic. DD's voice was never at its best on this one. The intersong instrumental play also at least my opinion is about their high point from a Prog perspective. Almost a Yes kind of feel to it. Awesome. 2
Aku-Aku- I know the song (instrumental) is pointless, but in my breadth of mind in the day, it was a beautiful and fitting end to Pieces of 8, the song, and the album. Kind of like not having Eruption with You Really Got Me on VH's First LP. They just go together. 6
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V_dHKI9Jzt4 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V_dHKI9Jzt4)
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Thanks for another Styx review. Love this band! Listening to the album takes me back to my junior year of high school.
Have you come across this live performance? Tommy slays it. And the drummer?! Dang!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OBMWsqXr06A
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Thanks for another Styx review. Love this band!
Have you come across this live performance? Tommy slays it. And the drummer?! Dang!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OBMWsqXr06A
Thanks.... Had not seen that. Shaw, though fairly late to the band, had great songwriting ability, and his dueling in the day with JY was legendary. Seeing them in '76 was a great concert moment for me. And.... they were the back up band for Foghat.
Again, modern, the band minus DDY did a nice nostalgic 2 album concert in order and true to the great tandem of Grand Illusion and Pieces of Eight. They did a nice job on this, goes back to 2012. 3 of 5 of prior members of orignial album present.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m9QfV55XOLg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m9QfV55XOLg)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Nine Inch Nails- Pretty Hate Machine (1989) ****
No, Trent Reznor never denied the influence of Depeche Mode. And in this highly acclaimed debut album, the tinge of Depeche Mode is evident in bits and pieces of the deep grooves of style and substance. Reznor and his project of NIN started not really of what would be created as a genre at first. (Industrial) But, NIN grew as an element, Reznor pieced together variable pieces of musicans that fitted each subsequent album like a glove. Personally, you might ask why I only give NIN 4 stars, for this and their classic work Downward Spiral. It's more of that I do not care for the dark and cacaphonic, and almost exhausting depressive nature of his music, No, this isn't a piece that I delve into frequently. BUT, as a musican, I can say that with absolute certainity that ut can't be denied of the essence of Reznor's musical genius. I can easily see the fans of the industrial genre giving NIN consistent 4+ ratings in their entire catalog.
Each NIN album is almost like attending a gory horror film, with oceans of blood, guts, and pain. Reznor is a fascinating creative force, who somehow, someway, has survived the darkness, and has effectively channeled that emotion into incredibly complex, and intelligent electronic and other sounds that give an unique music experience. There are parts of this album that bear no resemblence to Depeche Mode influence, and that is part of the fascination of this band. They can not be fully pigeon-holed into any one genre, style, or even any predictable musical flow. It also needs to be noted that Depeche's influences on Rezor was less with each new album. Modern NIN has no resemblence.
One aspect of NIN's repitoire that I have really recently been noticing, is that in some certain, and not all cases, is the bands he assembles provide amazing accuracy in live performances that are incredibly true to the orignals, or varaiations that build so nicely on the original that amaze the listener. And one also has to wonder how Reznor has survived given that many guess his music is channeled from the dark macrabe crevices from his mind. Think about how bad and depressing it is to the listener to explore this despair. Now think about the writer. I've said before he is like the Poe of Rock Music. I stand by that.
Pretty Hate Machine in its entirety is the second most fascinating work by NIN. Of course, again my opinion. When this came out in 1989, it was so much different than anything out there. It sure doesn't have the concept theming of Downward Spiral, and in some ways it does allow Reznor to have an open hand to experiment, and to provide a huge and wide brush on styles. It's a great random ride, but not one you want to take every day.
Fun Fact: Offically fro 1989-2016 Nine Inch Nails was only one member ....Reznor. He would write, and produce all aspects of the music. Then add musicans who he thought could best interpret his work in concert. Atticus Ross was added in 2016, after Reznor recognized that he was a consistent contributor for the long run and not dispensable.
Track No.
-----------------
1. Head Like a Hole- One of NIN's signature tunes, and a fan live favorite. Loud,Bombastic, chaotic that in like is in essence an example of Electronic Metal. Reznor is famously un-hooked in his songwriting, but this one is about as close as you are going get. Themes of anger, submission, retribution, and resistance fill this classic intro of NIN. 1
2. Terrible Lie- NIN in their massive talent tool belt loved to create machinery like base music, as the stories unfold. Sang angry, with really complex rthymatic patterns. What is so special about NIN, is their ability to change style, themes, and tone on a dime. The almost spastic fills of electronic is genius. 3
3. Down In It- Electronic Rap, but far more complex than anything present, before, anything in the future made in Hip Hop. I detest rap, so this one slides the list in favorites. Still significant music value 10
4. Santicfied- Puncturated with a strange almost jungle like bass line, Sounding much like a Fender Jazz bass at that. Depeche Mode on Acid might be a stretch, but this is much like something you would hear in a horror soundtrack, with eery back noises, adds and sporatic almost random melodic bits, and of course Reznor patented FX work. Then add chanting monks, and indiscernable back speech? Wow. 2
5. Something I Can Never Have- Maybe their most macrabe song. A repetitive melodic piano line, with a sternum rattling low frequency electronic base. Dark dark dark, lyrically. There has to be some level of self despair to capture this moment. Frightening, but beautiful as a sound. Background but very soft chirpping birds just adds to the aura. 4
6. Kinda I Want To- Hard to fathom , but an almost funky danceable, but no less dark venture into the dark and ugly. You can catch maybe a tad of the Depeche Mode influence here. Not much, but.... Like every other cut, no slouch musically. This album has no weak spots in that aspect. 7
7. Sin- Definite Depeche Mode like fare. But much more crisp sporatic, and dark. Fantastic Bass line puncuated with almost random like electronnic. Great all hell breaking loose parts that are exhausting as a listener. 6
8. That's What I Get- Ingenious synth work, and pretty much unique to the talents of Reznor. Forboding ballad. Extra points for uniqueness. 5
9. The Only Time- Hard to call anything from NIN filler, but this one seems a little pointless in the view of what he wanted to cover on this LP. 9
10. Ringfinger- Electronic fare that continues the strangeness. Not sure of the theme of the song, but I am venturing a guess it is a sick and deep despaired anger toward marriage. And as a shocker, the first and only guitar solos briefly is inserted to give more shock value. ... Wow, I am worn out. Glad this reivew is over. 8
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9g5KTwlxt_Q (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9g5KTwlxt_Q)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Smashing Pumpkins- Siamese Dream (1993) ***
Smashing Pumpkins's second effort Siamese Dream thrust the band in the limelight, with a very strong effort of taking the Sabbath-ish fuzz distortion, and applying a Grunge/Indie/Alternative slant for meter and style. I first noticed the band on MTv in the day, and was pretty impressed with them in all aspects of their rock and roll debut (well almost debut). This band was very competent, good songwriting chops and used that Fuzz sound to create a unique sound in the era. Though Weezer was fuzzing similarly, The Pumpkins had a more morbid downer serious tone in their angle of the sound.
The center of the creative universe and Front Man for SP is Billy Corgan. Other band mates pretty much accept the sidelight, but none of them are weak on their respective instruments. Production values are decent too, as the band is able to channel and juggle the fuzz and melodic aspects of their sound into some good period tunes. On a per song basis, this is probably their best effort. There might be a few more stronger tunes on "Infinite Sorrow", but then again that is a Double CD. This one also has less prenteniousness that Infinite Sorrow. By then SP, was one of the bigger rock bands in the era, and took that with liberties on subsequent works. There obviously is a hungrier, more spirited effort here, and it pays off nicely on the vinyl (poly-carb plastic?)
SP's successful career for arguments sake only lasted 6 drawn albums over a 20 year period. There were plenty of whispers that Corgan was a tyrant and extremely difficult to work with. Who knows, but it is certain, that this band should have made at least 5-10 more albums in that same timeframe. Still, it is hard for a fan of rock music not like a band that transvereses as many as 6 or 7 musical genres, and sometimes in the same song. And in this particular album, it's all there, and is strong. What prevents these works from reaching lofty ratings, is that with the excellence in songwriting, there really are any virtuoso moments. Lots of great rock and roll, but few if any individual performances that stand out.
Fun Fact: Band won 2 Grammys despite not being exact darlings to the critics.
Track No.
---------------
1. Cherub Rock- Fuzz effects and mayhem at the onsite. As discussed earlier, this band was a master of versatiilty in incorporated valid or not various genres into their catalog. Mind numbing, well hooked, and a good example of Corgan incorporated the fuzz at time even into a bizzare like melodic FX. Love the repet "Let Me Out, almost chant, that has a near NIN like air of despair. This one makes my SP Top 5. 2
2. Quiet- Switching gears to more a standard metal like style. More fuzz numbing Repet, Decent, But outside some of Corgan's best solo work on the CD, forgettable.. 8
3. Today- The hit, and the song that pretty much got everyone into SP. Rolling 3 part melodic style is excellent. From tinky guitar ditty, to blasting fuzz monster. Outstanding song, and easily one of three of the best they ever made. 1
4. Hummer- Heavy Indie Butthole Surfer feel that intertwines the ongoing Fuzz angle. Song does do a nice job of blending in ballad like moments in just another example of the band's penchant for versatility. 7
5. Rocket- Beautiful slow rolling guitar/bass, with near appregio work that gives the song an aura of mysticism. Outstanding, and innovative on the songwriting front. 3
6. Disarm- Talk about changing genre gears. Disarm is SP's most beautiful ballad like number. Complete with tubular chimes, strings, and other orchestraic gadgetry. They tried more variations of this on Infinite Sorrow, but with no where near the success. 4
7. Soma- More lighter fare, and I guess an Ode to the Painkillers and relationships. Seems Corgan and Reznor were actually more similar than different. Song overall is lower tier. 12
8. Geek, U.S.A.- Fuzz, with a tinge of speed metal. Best percussion on the LP, but not much else to write home about- 10
9. Mayonaise- More balladry, but with significantly less success. Not too much filler here, but this one makes it. 13
10. Spaceboy- Solid heavy rocker that has some absolute strange sexual verbal FX at start, which I have no idea why it fits in with this number around pain and despair. 6
11. Silverfuck- Despite the expletive, maybe the best use of band chaos of mix of instruments. 5
12. Sweet Sweet- Mostly an accoustic like ballad that seems what to be a 12-string song. Decent, but not upper eschilon in the work. 9
13. Luna- Albums brings to close some more pretty pointless ballad like fare. 11
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=--QedF6_fWw (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=--QedF6_fWw)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Pink Floyd- The Wall (1979). **
I can remember a moment in 1979 when there was a tear in the space time continuum, when this album appeared. Nationwide, you saw rock and roll fans see a huge split and divided factions. You'd thought it was 1965 again, and Dylan had picked up another electric guitar. The two camps were highly polarized. One side, and a lot of knee pad critics saw this as groundbreaking, and 2 steps forward for the band. The other side, including myself saw this as an example of a band who you speculate would be the last to sell out on earth, had turned to the dark side. (and not the moon, pardon the pun) I know I am in the minority, but IMO this is one of the weakest effort by the band.
The biggest laughable aspect of this is that Waters/Gilmour braintrust thought that emulating The Who into stratospheric Rock Opera territory. PF was always an excellent band on the conceptual front. All the great Prog band were. But this effort was downright silly, and outside maybe 30-40% of this album is listenable, to pretty good. This is a double album with a lot of pointless of crap filler. The whole story line isn't even interesting. The fact they made a move.... (against Sans The Who/Tommy) is an example how desperate the movie industry is around the copycat process And don't remind me that this one included one of the greatest Rock Producers Bob Ezrin too. Not one of his finer moments either. To me, The Wall screamed pretentiousness without utter substance.
Still, I am quite possibly in the minority, as rock fans gave it a resounding approval to the tune of 11M units sold. Exceeding >10M units has only occured 87 times in recording history. And if you take compliations off the list of double albums selling >10M the feat is exceeding rare. The only non complation album to make that list are this one, and The Beatles White Album.
Granted, there are fine moments, but the pointless outweighs the good. If the band had taken the good cuts, and consolidated them on one LP, I'd definitely given this work 3 stars, and maybe on a stretch 3 1/2. But wading through filler is tedious indeed. If the story was good like, Tommy or Quadrophenia, it might been more interesting. And the fact Gilmour/Waters rehashed so many licks on this LP, was at least from my persepective, an exercise of laziness rather than avante garde Prog Mastery. For those who may have missed the late 1970's, the concept album, and idiotic movie is a tour of human isolation as the story's hero "Pink" who spirals down. And the fact they based a lot of it on the tragic Syd Barrett story, is reprehensible. Captializing on his plight? **nononono*
And honestly, I don't think I really feel like ranking or discussing most of the 26 individual cuts. I am only going to add the listenable ones, with maybe some minimal discussion. Consider the rest filler. To me, there are 4 or 5 better choices if you want an example of this excellent band's catalog. And admittedly they are outstanding musicans, but this just wasn't one of their best in their long career.
Fun Fact: Another Brick in the Wall (Part 2) is singularly and the only No. 1 charting single in PF history.
Side 1
---------------
Another Brick In the Wall Parts 1 and 2- The big hit, and the band tirelessly rehashes these same riffs for the entire album. This one made me think they had turned to Hooking. Catchy stuff, but once would have been enough instead of incessant rephrasing, and rehashing. PF sold out? I report..... You decide.
Mother- Pleasant ballad that has decently innovative sounds. Ezrin was always good at throwing nice curves in there. Nice melodic work, and the organ work augments well with some good songwriting too. Song does have of a DSOTM feel to it.
Side 2-
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Young Lust- Actually my favorite cut from the LP's. Fantastic funky feel with nice Gilmour guitar interplay.
Side 3-
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Hey You- Very decent ballad with some nice guitar runs. This album is not a total failure, and it does have moments. Just not a lot of them.
Comfortably Numb- Mabe the most lasting and endearing cut on the LP's. This tune still gets lots of airplay on Classic Rock Radio. PF is best when Gilmour does solos like this and "On the Turning Away". Knoppler may be the greatest of the ax guys with the ability to extend expressive guitar work from the heart to the fret, but Gilmour is not far behind.
Side 4-
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Run Like Hell- My second favorite song on The Wall. Love the thundering bass line, and wah-echo guitar wizardry.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r48BLz42NuI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r48BLz42NuI)
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Pink Floyd,blues from the 25th century.
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(https://cdn11.bigcommerce.com/s-1xa2dhlu0a/images/stencil/1280x1280/products/71882/90432/LINTS1444___67682.1657991231.jpg?c=1)
1. "In the Dark"
2. "The Stroke"
3. "My Kinda Lover"
4. "You Know What I Like"
5. "Too Daze Gone"
6. "Lonely Is the Night"
7. "Whadda You Want from Me"
8. "Nobody Knows"
9. "I Need You"
10. "Don't Say No"
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@catfish1957
Thank you thank you thank you for doing Pink Floyd's Wall .
What was your opinion of the movie?
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@catfish1957
Thank you thank you thank you for doing Pink Floyd's Wall .
What was your opinion of the movie?
@Gefn
Thanks....
I did see it, in the early 1990's (I think on HBO or Showtime). And I did have a few comments from the review above as follows:
"The whole story line isn't even interesting. The fact they made a movie.... (against Sans The Who/Tommy) is an example how desperate the movie industry is around the copycat process"
If the story was good like, Tommy or Quadrophenia, it might been more interesting. And the fact Gilmour/Waters rehashed so many licks on this LP, was at least from my persepective, an exercise of laziness rather than avante garde Prog Mastery. For those who may have missed the late 1970's, the concept album, and idiotic movie is a tour of human isolation as the story's hero "Pink" who spirals down. And the fact they based a lot of it on the tragic Syd Barrett story, is reprehensible. Captializing on his plight? **nononono*
I know that is pretty harsh, but that is at least how I saw it.
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@Gefn
And the fact they based a lot of it on the tragic Syd Barrett story, is reprehensible. Captializing on his plight? **nononono*[/color]
I know that is pretty harsh, but that is at least how I saw it.
@catfish1957
I'm almost with ya on that one. I don't like it,but given that the band continued to pay Syd royalties and help him after he became a vegetable shows (to me,anyhow) they weren't purposely dumping on him.
Sometimes we all make mistakes by not thinking before acting. Or at least I do,anyhow.
Plus,movie companies are not known to be the most honest and forthright people to do business with. The producers and directors will look you directly in the eyes,and lie their asses off to get you to sign up. The typical street crack whore is more respectable than the Hollywood movie production crowd.
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@catfish1957
I'm almost with ya on that one. I don't like it,but given that the band continued to pay Syd royalties and help him after he became a vegetable shows (to me,anyhow) they weren't purposely dumping on him.
Sometimes we all make mistakes by not thinking before acting. Or at least I do,anyhow.
I know you are a huge PF fan. Did you see "The Wall", and if you did what was your impression?
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@catfish1957 @sneakypete
I had a VHS tape of "The Wall" movie with Bob Geldof as the lead.
I played it so much I broke the tape .
It really spoke to me.
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:thumbsup:
Was this pre-Rats? I'd forgotten he was in it. Glad you liked it. I think I was more into the interpretive aspect of Music/Movie content.
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I feel the same way about Pink Floyd’s “The Wall.” I had DSOTM, Animals, and Wish you Were Here and enjoyed those albums
The first time I did hear The Wall was at a friends house sometime in the late 1970’s playing in the background and I decided that it wasn’t for me.
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@catfish1957 @sneakypete
I had a VHS tape of "The Wall" movie with Bob Geldof as the lead.
I played it so much I broke the tape .
It really spoke to me.
@Gefn
I was so out of touch I didn't even know there was a movie from the CD.
Then again,I pretty much stated maximum buzzed back in those days.
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@Gefn
Then again,I pretty much stated maximum buzzed back in those days.
@sneakypete
@corbe
Dedicated to those who might have particpated in uhhh....mind altering stuff in the day. Before dismissing this to random noise, you might be suprised which significant bands were influenced by this. Musical art, in kind of a Jackson Pollock kind of way.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XT8omNGhbTM (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XT8omNGhbTM)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Blink 182- Take Off Your Pants and Jacket (2001) ***
Blink had a tough act to follow. To followup on the massively successful Enema of the State, would be an almost an impossible feat. Enema was Quintiple Platinum, which is (was) a pretty amazing accomplishment right in the middle of the Napster era. I understand Punk is not for most people, and how I at least see the genre, are those few bands who best took forward the ideas, energy, speed, and chaotic flailing of the Ramones. The Ramones will always be the gold standard, but there were quite a few descendents that took the mantle, and did it well, and in the case of Blink did it in a slight handed Pop, and melodic way.
But more than anything, if you are a fan of drumming and percussion, what Travis Barker did on these two albums is nothing short of remarkable. No one in the past 25 years or so had done it as expansive, filled, and crushing than the tatooed wonder. Listen closely, and you would think some of what he accomplshes could only be done via electronic fill. But that is not the case. The guy is that good. Why he is not ranked higher among the greats is more likely a function of the lack of serious nature of Blink's music instead of his technical prowess.
Mark Hoppus, and Tom Delonge are not slouches either in their craft. They are as competent as the rest of the Alpha-Numeric Punk acts of the era. What slightly sets them apart is what I consider somewhat of a pop sensibility. Not overt enough to infer Hook Central, but just a load of really good punk tunes. And I got a kick of these kids doing a parody and what the thought of what it was like in mid 1970's in their "First Date" Video. But let me add, that the latter part of the album contains stupid poinless vulagarity that detracts from the album's legacy.
The CD is 19 generally short 2-3 minute rides into modern Punk Rock and the adventures of youth, and fun as hell. Instead of ranking these, I am going to assign the tunes a "quintile" ranking. 1 2 3 4 5 And maybe a short narrative, if warranted. I mean this is punk rock. This isn't designed to over analyzed. Plus I might add I know the quintiles aren't exactly symetrical, but I did the best I could.
Fun Fact: All 7 of the last 9 Blink 182 studio albums charted in the Top 10.
Track No.
========
1. Anthem Part 2- 2
2. Online Songs- No new ground here. Similar to some of the stuff on Enema 4
3. First Date- Probably their biggest hit on the CD. Excellent take on teenage agnst. Drumming clinic in progress 1
4. Happy Holidays, You Bastard- If there is one knock on Blink's material, I swear that they do have some almost similar, if not exact. Dock for recycling 5
5. Story of a Lonely Guy- The most thoughtful, and melodic, pleasantly hooked effort. 1
6. The Rock Show- Love story telling on a quaint, and effective level- 1
7. Stay Together for the Kids- Meloncoly sad in the vein of previous Adam's Song. Not near as good or effective at the heart strings- 4
8.Rollercoaster- Most pure punk blasting chaotic piece on the CD. Excellent job boys. 1
9. Reckless Abandon- 3
10. Every Time I Look at You- 4
11. Give Me One Good Reason- Rehashed Dumpweed. 5
12. Shut Up- 3
13. Please Take Me Home- 2
14. Time to Break Up- Whoosh drumming!!! 3
15. Mother's Day- ??? WTF. 5
16. What Went Wrong- Almost Greenday-ish ballad that strangely works. 2
17. F__ a Dog- Idiotic and pointless. Docked massively for pointless vulgarity. 5
18. Don't Tell Me Its Over- In the middle of the bottom garbage is a great song. 1
19. When You F__'ed Grandpa- No comment needed. **nononono*. 5
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3fZS_BKirW8 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3fZS_BKirW8)
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Classic Concert of the Night- Alice Coooper on ABC's In Concert. Broadcasted November 24,1972.
I watched the original broadcast of this waaaaaay back, and it helped put my interest in Rock Music into overdrive. This was so different, so audacious, so Anti-Hippy, and soooooo anti-mainstream at the time.......
Sorry, for the quality, of the YT video. Remember this is 1972, and honestly, I am just thankful a copy of this still exists.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WiJ74lBFGa8&list=RDWiJ74lBFGa8&start_radio=1 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WiJ74lBFGa8&list=RDWiJ74lBFGa8&start_radio=1)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Fleetwood Mac- Rumours (1977) *** 1/2
I have avoided (delayed) this review for the fact that I heard this damned thing so much in the late 1970's, and I got sick of it. If you lived in this era, and haven't heard at least a few of these songs, I can honestly say you must have lived under a rock. But leaving the fatigue factor aside, I will admit that this is a once in a masterpiece of song writing, and execution. If you were to put a finger on the reasoning of such sudden success, it was the obvious that the tandem of Buckingham and Nicks had wrestled artistic control from Fleetwood and the McVie(s). It shows in full content and style. And the band never looked back.
As mentioned earlier, this got played to death, and appealed to a wide variety of fans of rock, pop, and contemporary. I wil admit that if I hadn't heard this so much on the radio in the day, I would have rated it a tad higher. But with that, and listening to this in its entirety, it sure brought back lots of good and bad memeories. Many might say, it had a lot to do, with the soundtrack of life of 1977. It was almost impossible without a Fleetwoood Mac song hitting the radio in any given hour.
The album itself has nice and wide stylistic turns form strong rocking, to soulfoul ballads, to hard core Top 40 fodder. Yes the appeal was that wide. If you remember my Tusk review, I lamented that Buckingham is a terribly underated guitarist. No, not a top 5 kind of guy, but his stuff and its application is excellent.
Fun Fact: Rumours outsold the previous 11 Fleetwood Mac albums by a factor of 4X. 30M sales makes it the 7th highest sales of a studio album of all time.
Side 1-
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Second Hand News- Strong out of the gate, with a sexy interluding harmony by the lady herself. Wow, was I rver enamored with Ms.Nicks in the day. Others had a Farah Fawcett poster on the wall. Mine was a hot and sweaty Stevie Nicks. Overall a nice hooked and rolling rocker. 5
Dreams- This was the bedrock of sexy singing that laid the ground work of her massively successful solo career. This ballad, IMO not her greatest still has a lot effect, and sold big time for the LP Still think she and Joplin had the sexiest voices of women in history. 7
Never Going Back- Buckingham loved doing almost 19th century like folk musical ditties that were very good, and a whole lot this style is more evident on Tusk. I liked them, and this is a good one on a great album 9
Don't Stop- Great hooked pop hit, that flooded the airwaves in 1977. Docked slightly for being a Clinton Campaign Theme Song.
3
Go Your Own Way- The great hit, though overplayed it deserves its legendary legacy. In the day, it seemed like the massively typical "Break Up" Song, though later on, I understand that was definitiely not the intent of Buckingham. Has the absolutle some bad ass guitar work, and Lindsey Buckingham at his best. The multi-string bar fretting solo-ing is not as easy as you think, 1
Song Bird- When Chris McVie died recently, my first thoughts were listening to this particular tune, and it was pretty tough holding back the water works. This song even then in my mind was hauntingly beautiful. And now it rates higher now for me than then. 4
Side 2-
----------------
(Silver Springs)- a Reissue and skipping
The Chain- Another one of those 19th centrury like themed ballads, though more hard edged that I alway considered lower tier. Still, good but not their best 10
You Make Loving Fun- Missing from this YT video. Was a good standard rocking number sang by McVie. Lower tier on album, and really nothing to add in the effort8
I Don't Want to Know- The real sleeper that wasn't adored by the masses, but had that feel that is what made Tusk such a great song. Buckingham's amazing acoustical almost in a Mandolinish harmonized choral floral explosion. I loved it 2
Oh Daddy- Weak McVie ballad- 11
Gold Dust Woman- Nicks turns the Sexy Dial up to "11". Love the 19th century vibe. I know Nicks is given full songwriting credit, but there is no doubt hearing Buckingham's influence. 6
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uzEt9cATWFw (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uzEt9cATWFw)
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Yes, Fleetwood Mac was overplayed. And yes, it sounds pretty great as the years fly by and the new music stinks.
Silver Springs is my favorite Fleetwood song.
Thanks for reviewing this album.
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Although I loved Tusk, Rumors was my favorite. Although overplayed, as you said, the familiarity brings contented listening. Sort of like putting on comfortable house shoes. :laugh:
To me, it showcased all the members of the band in a most excellent way. The one time I saw them, sans Christie, they were excellent. And most of that concert focused on Rumors. A very long time after its release...the crowd was still very enthusiastic.
And as @deb said...thank you, I enjoyed the review.
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Although I loved Tusk, Rumors was my favorite. Although overplayed, as you said, the familiarity brings contented listening. Sort of like putting on comfortable house shoes. :laugh:
To me, it showcased all the members of the band in a most excellent way. The one time I saw them, sans Christie, they were excellent. And most of that concert focused on Rumors. A very long time after its release...the crowd was still very enthusiastic.
And as @deb said...thank you, I enjoyed the review.
@deb
@berdie
Thanks....
In all the reviews I've done, this was the one that proabably invoked the most memories, for the fact as I said earlier.... Rumors as an album was about as close of a soundtrack to 1977 as it came. AND was a welcome respite to the avalanche of Disco we had to endure on the radio during the period too.
Back then I thought Chris Mc Vie's Song Bird, was a pleasant and nice ballad to add. Today, and especially since she is gone, it has haunting meloncoly feel that is tough to listen to without emotion.
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Nothing better than some Morning Wake Up Primus. Rattle it on Les.....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=953PkxFNiko&list=RD953PkxFNiko&start_radio=1 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=953PkxFNiko&list=RD953PkxFNiko&start_radio=1)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Sum 41- All Killer No Filler- (2001) ** 1/2
The dawn of the Millenum brought in a new rock fad, that i like too call the era of the "Alpha Numeric Nuevo-Punk Bands"- Have to admit that the large majority of them were garbage, and thankfully I had my kids there to vet, and show me the better ones. And this band, Sum was a top tier of that genre. These guys are Canadian, and like so many of that time, started, operated, and I guess now have pretty faded into obscurity. Like so many too of that time.
Got to admit, that I loved the title, and its take on Album quality. Kind of gives a clue that recording artists, and execs have always had a pretty good idea of what level of quality was being offered to the record buying audience. As far as the band, they seem to almost be a 50-50 blend of Green Day and Blink 182. There was a lot of trash in the genre at the time, but in this case, a very listenable album. No Filler? I wouldn't go that far, but I put this album easily in the top 5 or 6 of the genre. In an case, if you had the radio on in the early 2000's, I am guessing you will recognize a tune or two. This was the band's debut, and will say the subsequent 7 do not come near this level of listen. One Hit Wonder? That's my take.
Fun Fact: And a strange one. Motley Crue drummer Tommy Lee performs in one of the live renditons, in later re-issue of this CD.
As with most punk albums, no over analysis is needed. Some songs below may not include any critical review.
Track No.
------------
1. Introduction to Destruction- What a silly satanic like intro, and schitick. Sorry boys, Black Sabbath did this, and did it 100X better 30 years earlier. - 13
2. Nothing on My Back- Excellent start, yeah, a pretty typical punk song, but great drum and bass fills mid point. 2
3. Never Wake Up- Speed Punk. Meh. 8
4. Fat Lip- I know we have some Beastie Boys Briefer Fans, and the guys do a good homage and mix of that style with their own punk chops. This was their big hit, and the one you might recognize. Best effort on the CD. 1
5. Rhythms- 7
6. Motivation- Another one that got some air play that has an almost ska melodic theming, and some really good infused but short guitar runs. 3
7. In Too Deep- Add one more that got airplay that harkens to a Green Day-ish style. Maybe too much like Green Day. Not bad though- 4
8. Summer- 10
9. Handle This- 9
10. Crazy Amanda Bunkface- Like the lower register guitar work, unusal vocal phrasing, add some almost metalish infusion? Pretty Decent- 5
11. All She's Got- Sounds almost Identical to any Blink Song. Even the drumming is Barker-ish- Very good though. 6
12. Heart Attack- 11
13. Pain For Pleasure- 12 Almost parody-ish farce of '80's Metal stuff. Jokes on you boys. You've just wasted 2 mnutes of CD time with your dumbass imitation. 12
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fHmQdxujLCA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fHmQdxujLCA)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Marshall Crenshaw- Self Titled (1982) ** 1/2
Right in the midst of the New Wave era resided some really decent somewhat obscure acts that have kind of faded from the memory of listeners. While thumbing through the collection today, I gave this one a listen, and was pleasantly surprised how good about half of this album was. The other half isn't exactly filler, but overall suprisingly good. Strange point though is that while Crenshaw was loved by critics, that adulation didn't translate into album sales, and surpringly so-so chart wise. The charm in this album is really good songwriting skills. Don't expect an Ocasek / Orr muscial new wave clinic. Crenshaw never reproduced this quaility, and subsequent works, and latter work not near as good.
If I had to describe Crenshaw, I'd describe him as more pop-ish variety of Elvis Costello, other similar new wave artists of the day, but what made him somewhat unique addition of a Rock-a-Billy sound. Yeah, Hooks-a-million, but when you listen to the overall product you kind of think your are hearing a clone of what a mix of Elvis Costello and Buddy Holly would exactly sound like. And to be honest, I understand Costello's appeal, but I have never been much of a fan. Music is subjective, obviously, but he's never interested me outside a couple of songs over a multi-decade career.
Another few house keeping items on this review. (1) It is a strange oddity in how the album is configured where the 4 best songs are the first 2 from Side 1, and the last 2 from Side 2. Can't say I have seen that too many times (2) Sadly, the entire album is not available for the "listener experience" on YT. So I am adding the four I just mentioned. If it interested, check out the others. Overall.... Not bad.
Fun Fact: Maybe the only act I have heard where brothers made up 2 of the 3 members. Anyone else know of an example?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s5VDIvesL4M (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s5VDIvesL4M)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j7sg66vfNHs (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j7sg66vfNHs)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oGMbbq3ct_0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oGMbbq3ct_0)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HJJrzEdSi4o (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HJJrzEdSi4o)
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Classic
Rock Album of the Day- Enya- Shepherd Moons (1991) ***
Didn't expect this one? I am not a fan of New Age Music, but I am a fan of enormous talent, and especially those who are at the apex in their genre. Enya is a hugely successful New Age Artist who has had world wide admiration. There may be a few that come to mind to me later, but her tonal perfection and range is unparalleled, by mabe just a very select few, like Whitney Houston. I don't think even Pat Benetar could manage her catalog technically. In any case, humor me for a guilty pleasure, and enjooy beauty on vinyl.
Enya has a strong catalog, but this particular album, is head and shoulder what I feel is the next best..... "The Memory of Trees". Very much more consistent, and utterly ehterally, and celestially beautiful. This is the kind of music I like when stuck in crazy Houston Freeway traffic, ....relaxing. She draws from her Celt/Gaelic roots, into folk, neo-classical, and new age etherics to make magic. Many of her songs are sung in her native Gaelic language, along with English, and Latin. My all time favorite of hers, includes the mixes of these in "Afer Ventus"
Shephered Moons is from a style perspective more etheral (sorry for the overuse) and choral melodic than her other LP's. There are as always some strong Gaelic contributions like "EBudae", but more of the fare is airy and strong on flowing and rolling melodies.. One anecdotal add is one that is kind of eery in a way. When I first heard the song Marble Halls, I had a strange kind of dejavu feeling, though through research, there is no way I could heard that song before. Come to find out it was written in the 19th century. Enough of that. But overall this is an exceptionally pleasant and consistently good LP. Even the lesser cuts are woth of a listen. Hope it is a good change of pace.
Fun Fact: Enya is the second best selling Irish act of all time behind U2.
Side 1-
----------
Shepherd Moons- Come to find out this is an ode to Saturn's inner 2 moons. Mostly a stunning keboard instrumental with a tad of out oof this world-ish chorus blending in a nice package The production of some how bleeding, to near reverb is a very nice touch. 4
Caribbean Blue- The recognizable tune that got the most radio play. Has that Orinoco Flow vibe, that seemed a bit redundant. Do like how she did that harpisichord like fill. Her best example of that is "China Roses" from her next album "The Memory of Tree" 9
How I Can Keep From Singing- The best example of Enya's range. Song comes across like a hymn, with background subdued small church organ. Her ability to maintain resonance on those high notes is amazing. 7
Ebudae- A total change of pace, as Enya sings a traditional Gaelic folk/ battle? tune that really highlights her lower range. I love the fact that this song is so un-like the other theming of the album, but is still a great addition. 6
Angeles- Another almost hymnal like number with beautifully blended harmonies. Add a bizarre clarinet solo at the end? Wow. 5
No Holly for Ms. Quinn- Very good piano instrumental that, even that good is a weaker cut on the LP. 12
Side 2-
----------
Book of Days- The most commerical song on the album, and somewhat pedistrian and boring versus the adventurous and content elsewhere. I must not have been alone, because I found out today this was an award winning song- It got a Golden Rasberry Award for Original Film Score- :silly: 11
Evacuee- Now the LP starts ramping up. Song begins with an eery Marble Halls intro, and in almost anthem like hymnal flows into a spectacular variation of that melody line into an excellent song that highlights all aspects of Enya's voice. 2
Lothiorien- Kind of works off the ehteral Shepherd Moons melodic theming. Another out of this world feeling instrumental, Her technical and production crews are just as talented, and this is such a good example. 8
Marble Halls- Stunningly beautiful 19th century waltz Angelic vocals might give you chills as they augment the melody in 3/4 Time. 3
Afer Ventus- My favorite song in the entire Enya catalog. If you only have time for one song, please try this one. Two competing melodies sang in unison in two languages Gaelic and Latin. How they intertwine and flow is jaw dropping. Celestial chorusing transistion soothingly and finally climaxes to a pseudo-harpiscord like music box ending. Afer Ventus is Latin for African Wind. 1
Smaointe- Gaelic ballad that is lower tier. No new ground or interest generated. 10
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gWNRQnJxpmg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gWNRQnJxpmg)
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You are full of surprises @catfish1957 !
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You are full of surprises @catfish1957 !
:cool:
Thanks. I can typically find some redeeming quality in any musical genre, besides Rap.
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Signing off for a little Christmas travel/festivities.... Should be back the 26th.
Merry Christmas to all.
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Merry Christmas! To you and yours. Thanks for all the great reviews. :beer: @catfish1957
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Signing off for a little Christmas travel/festivities.... Should be back the 26th.
Merry Christmas to all.
Have a wonderful Christmas!
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Merry Christmas! To you and yours. Thanks for all the great reviews. :beer: @catfish1957
@bigheadfred
Thanks for the kind words Fred. Let me know if there are any particular bands or albums you'd like to hear about
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Led Zeppelin- Physical Grafitti (1975) **** 1/2
This one is near and dear, and one wrought wlth great memories, and stories. A while back (almost a couple of years ago) I shared in my Top 20 lists, my anecdotal experience wth this particular album. If you don't mind me indulging, please let me re-post those memories before moving forward with the review:
***- Quite a story with this album. I bugged the hell out of my record store to get Physical Graffiti, and had an "urgent" and "priority" status put my order. On April 11, 1975 When I got the call to pick up, that night I thew a Zep Album party foor nine of my closest rocking buddies, and we had a formal unwrapping and First Play Party. As far as I know, I was the first kid in the state to get the album. That's at least what the record store told me. And more Hawaiian Punch and Chips Ahoy than anyone could eat. And finally kudos to parents for letting me have the house for the evening, along with the parental HiFi
Interesting how you respond to music after years have passed. When I first played this LP, I had it easily had it up there in legendary status with the first 4, and that is saying something. Then you realize after hearing in detail, that this is an album with some flaws, though minor. At the time I also did not know or understand that many of these were outtakes of early 70's tunes from IV and H of H, that just didn't make the cut. About half actually were recorded pre-'74. In essence, this ended up being an exercise of band self indulgence. And if this album would have been centered on the better half, this would have been at regular LZ 5 star status. That level of indulgence is also evident that 3 of the 15 cuts are over 8 minutes long. Yes, that was pretty common at the time for one, but 3?
The album itself, is a wonder of engineering, especially evident in the 1974 songs. Crisper, tighter, and maybe a tad less fuzz-sloppiness that was a hallmark, though a great one giving this band its signature sound. The 3 main musicians Page, JPJ, and Bonzo are all in their full bad ass greatness. The solos and playing as in any LZ LP is the rock standard. That is why, and no accident so many bands in the era emulated them. Led Zeppelin was the undisputed standard for Hard Rock.
What kind of makes this album unique is that this really the turning point where Page decided he didn't want to rely as much on blues based rock to practice their trade. It also has some of their most experimental musical wares. In 1970, I never dreamed that song like Kashmir could be made by this same band that did the blues on steroids. III may have had more of an audacious approach, but there is no doubt, much of what you were hearing in the '74 stuff was contrived on an expanded creativity base, instead of variations of blues. One thing is also certain, you can sure feel the eastern influence. It just worked on so many levels. In any case get ready for an hour and a half of rock history.
I do think in closing though, that this wild experimentative phase of the band did backfire in their next effort, and the worst album in their catalog - Presence. Another day for that one.
Fun Fact: First album after breaking from Atlantic Records, creating Swan Song Records. Yep, Led Zeppelin was this big and powerful. And influential? First new band they signed to their record company was Bad Company.
Side 1-
-------------
Custard Pie- Nice funky and blues-ish start to this long book. The fact this song is lower tier, and this great should give you an idea of great, varied, talented, and musically in the zone this band was in the early 1970's 10
The Rover- Hard rocking masterful classic, Page's magical ax work kind of underscores some fine JPJ, Bonham stuff. Boom!! 4
In My Time of Dying- Can't remember one song that Page relied more on the slide on. This is one of the 3 epic long ones, and yeah Page's solo is great, but from a listening perspective, this one is about 6 minutes too long. 8
Side 2-
-------------
Houses of the Holy- Ahhh yes, the title track that never was. Still, if there is one of these 4 sides worth the most listening, this is the one. Houses has that Dancin' Daze kind of riffing structure, still it even with its hooks, is a great Led Zeppelin tune. Love the time change alterations, and way innovative synced structure 5
Trampled Underfoot- More outstanding musical syncopation. The flowing and wailing Page guitar adds are genius. When Zep did funky, they did it great. OOOOO eeee.... indeed. 7
Kashmir- Wow, where do we start on this epic masterpiece. Never has a rock song ever been so constucted to build in tension, forbodance(?), and anticpation. Up and down like a roller coaster, Plant have never sang with such convicition of mysticism ever. Ever band member is on their game, and when the song morphs into its eastern flair? You can just feel the story unfold. And how Page was able to extract that horn like sound? I guess that is why he is Jimmy Page. For older guys Clapton may have been God, but to our generation, Page was the man. And I always wondered if Rat impressed Stacy with his taste in music. 1
Side 3-
-----------
In the Light- The Eastern influences continue into another mystical tour de force that blends into a fantastic good old fashion rocking number, but still with somewhat of a Kashmire feel to as it builds, ebbs, and flows as the verses progress. No, this isn't a Kashmir remake, and is outstanding on its own merits. 3
Bron-Yr-Aur- No I don't know Gaelic, and have never bothered to look up what it means. It is a short two minute Page acoustical ditty that is really good on a great album. 14
Down By the Seaside- Closest thing to filler on this LP. Not sure what they were wanting to accomplish with this almost C &W effort. 15
Ten Years Gone- Page for the 3rd time has reverted to his Kashmir based melodic patterns. With less success. Much better options on this LP. 11
Side 4-
------------
Night Flight- Lower tier, good stuff, but not their most inspired. 13
The Wanton Song- The sleeper on the LP, as I like to call it. Yeah, the band may have overused the funky style a bit, but I love the hook lines to death. Bonzo does some pretty amazing stuff here if you listen closely. 2
Boogie With Stu- Zep, often had a strange one and this piano based barrel house rocker has a neat '50's kind of touch to it. Love how Plant also used a hollowed mic to give it that rustic feel. Then add a Page Mandolin for spare? What's not to like? 9
Black Country Woman- A semi-acooustical that is purposely off tuned to give it that delta blues vibe. 12
Sick Again- Page turns up the blues in maybe from a mixed perspective the most atypical H of the H feeling number. Does rock though. 6
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EH6I31ev1GM (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EH6I31ev1GM)
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I like to update ever 8-10 pages with listing of reviews that I maintain on Page 1.
Index of Record Reviews- Band-Album-Page No. on thread (from Maj. Bill and Catfish)
========================================
AC DC- Back In Black- 26. ****
AC DC- For Those About to Rock- 43 *** 1/2
AC-DC- High Voltage- 35 ****
Aerosmith- Get Your Wings- 45 *** 1/2
Aerosmith- Rocks- 30 *** 1/2
Aersosmith- Toys in the Attic- 30 ****
Alice Cooper- Billion Dollar Babies- 27 ****
Alice Cooper- Killer- 42 *** 1/2
Alice Cooper- Love it to Death- 38 *** 1/2
Alice Cooper Welcome to My Nightmare- 43 *** 1/2
Amboy Dukes- Journey to the Center of a Mind- 39 ** 1/2
Eric Burdon and the Animals- Winds of Change- 42 ** 1/2
Asia- Asia- 38 * 1/2
The Beach Boys- Pet Sounds- ** 1/2
The Beatles- Sargent Pepper's Lonely Heart Club Band- 30 *****
The Beatles- Abbey Road- 44 *****
Big Country- The Crossing= *** 1/2
Black Oak Arkansas, Black Oak Arkansas- 32 *** 1/2
Black Sabbath- Master of Reality- 43 ****
Black Sabbath- Volume 4- 26 ****
Blink 182- Enema of the State- 32 *** 1/2
Blink 182- Take Off Your Pants and Jacket- 46 ***
Blue Cheer- Blue Cheer- 44- ***
Blue Oyster Cult- Agents of Fortune- 28 ****
Blue Oyster Cult- The Revolution By Night- 38 *** 1/2
Bloodrock-II - 29 *** 1/2
Boston-Boston- 26 *****
Boston- Walk On- 37 ****
Jackson Browne- Lawyers in Love- 38 ***
The Cars- Candy-O - 28 ****
The Cars-The Cars- 39 ****
Chicago- Chicago- 29 *** 1/2
Creedence Clearwater Revival- Cosmo's Factory- 45 *****
Creedence Clearwater Revival- Willy and the Poor Boys- 27 *****
Creme- Disraeli Gears- 37 **** 1/2
Marshall Crenshaw- Marshall Crenshaw- 46 ** 1/2
Deep Purple- Burn- 37 ****
Deep Purple- Machine Head- 30 **** 1/2
Def Leppard- Hysteria- 29 ****
Derek and the Dominos- Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs- 40 ****
Dire Straits- Love Over Gold- 41 **** 1/2
Dire Straits- Making Movies- 36 ****
The Doors-The Doors-30 ***
Dream Theatre- Images and Words- 37 ***
Eagles- The Long Run- 37. ***
Emerson Lake and Palmer- Brain Salad Surgery- 26 **** 1/2
Emerson Lake and Palmer- Pictures at an Exhibition- 32 ****
Emerson Lake and Palmer- Trilogy- 42 **** 1/2
Eno- Another Green World- 34
Enya- Shepherd Moons- 46 ***
Fleetwood Mac Rumors-46 *** 1/2
Fleetwood Mac- Tusk- 43 ****
Foghat- Night Shift- 42 ****
Foreigner- IV- 29 *** 1/2
Genesis- Trespass- 36
Golden Earring- Moontan- 33 *** 1/2
Grand Funk Railroad- Closer to Home- 35 ***
Green Day- American Idiot- 29 ***
Guns and Roses- Appetite for Destruction- 39 *
Heart- Bad Animals- 45 ***
Honeymoon Suite- The Big Prize -44 *** 1/2
Hooters- Nervous Nights- 45 ***
INXS- Listen Like Thieves- 36 ***
Jimi Hendrix- Are you Experienced- 34 **** 1/2
James Gang- Rides Again- 29 ****
Jethro Tull- Aqualung- 32 *** 1/2
Journey- Infinity- 35 *** 1/2
Kansas- Leftoverture- 28 ****
Kansas - Point of Know Return- 41 ****
King Crimson- In the Court of the Crimson King- 34 *** 1/2
Kiss- Destroyer- 30 ***
Led Zeppelin- 42 *****
Led Zeppelin- II- 41 *****
Led Zeppelin- III- 29 *****
Led Zeppelin-IV- 25 *****
Led Zeppelin- Houses of the Holy- 44 ****
Led Zeppelin- Physical Grafitti- 46 **** 1/2
Loverboy- Get Lucky- 45 ***
Lynyrd Skynyrd- Lynyrd Skynrd- 33 ****
Metallica- Black Album- 35 ** 1/2
Steve Miller Band- Book of Dreams- 29 *** 1/2
The Moody Blues- Days of Future Past- 35 **** 1/2
The Moody Blues- 7th Sojourn- 28 **** 1/2
Nazareth- Hair of the Dog -37 ***
Willie Nelson- Red Headed Stranger- 40 ***
Nine Inch Nails- The Downward Spiral- 37 ****
Nine Inch Nails- Pretty Hate Machine- 45 ***
Nirvanna- Nevermind- 35 **
The Offspring- Splinter- 45 ***
Mike Oldfield- Tubular Bells- 37 ** 1/2
Tom Petty and Heartbreakers- Damn the Torpedos- 42 *** 1/2
Tom Petty- Full Moon Fever- 25 *****
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers- Into the Great Wide Open- 34 ****
Pink Floyd- Dark Side of the Moon- 40 ****
Pink Floyd- Momentary Lapse of Reason- 43 ****
Pink Floyd- The Wall- 45 **
Queen- Queen- 36 ****
Queen- II- 43 ****
Ramones- Ramones- 28 ****
Rare Earth- One World- 44 ***
Roxy Music- For Your Pleasure- 35 ***
Rush- 2112- 26 *****
Rush- Grace Under Pressure- 43 *****
Rush- Hemispheres- 41 *****
Rush- Moving Pictures- 30 *****
Rush- Roll the Bones- 45 *****
Rush- Vapor Trails- 41 ****
Bob Seger- Against the Wind- 26 ****
The Sex Pistols- Never Mind the Bullocks- 33 **
Smashing Pumpkins- Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness- 31 *** 1/2
Smashing Pumpkins- Siamese Dream- 45 ***
The Smithereens- 11- 37 ** 1/2
Styx- Equinox- 33 **** 1/2
Styx- Grand Illusion- 26 **** 1/2
Styx- Pieces of Eight- 45 **** 1/2
Synergy- Sequencer- 40 *** 1/2
Sum 41- All Killer No Filler 46 ** 1/2
Toto- Isolation- 34 ***
Trapeze- Medusa- 40 ***
The Traveling Wilbur's- Vol. 1- *** 1/2
Robin Trower- Bridge of Sighs- *** 1/2
UFO- Obsession- ***
Uriah Heep- Demons and Wizards- 28 ***
Van Halen- Van Halen- 40 ** 1/2
Weezer- Blue Album- 35 ***
Edgar Winter Group- They Only Come Out at Night- 43 ***
The Who- Tommy- 32 **** 1/2
The Who- Who's Next- 26 *****
Yes- 90125- 44 *****
Yes- Talk- 39 *****
Yes- The Yes Album- 27 *****
Neil Young and Crazy Horse- Rust Never Sleeps- 38 ****
Frank Zappa- Apostrophe- 31 ****
ZZ Top- Eliminator-44 **** 1/2
ZZ Top- Tres Hombres- 28 ****
*- Poor
**- Good
***- Very Good
****- Excellent
*****- Classic, indispensable
-
Classic Rock Album of the Day- Yes- Going For the One- (1977) *** 1/2
By 1977, Yes had had an almost 3 year hiatus, which in the terms of 1970's Rock and Roll was an almost eternity. Back in those days the expectation was at least one annually. And from the perspective, this is one of the weaker efforts from the band, and again after their solo efforts. Was it the absence of playing together? Were they rusty? Even with the weakness, the one reason I wanted to cover this one today, is that the two better cuts are so amazingly good. The entire album has some of the best musicanship in their career. But that level of wizardry doesn't always translate to great listenable music. A good example I like to use is ELP's Tarkus. In compostion, and delivery, they reached excellence never ever seen. But when a band decides to make difficult music without thinking about their listerners? Even the most hard core prog fans can look the other way. I am not totally saying Yes turned their back on the fans, but I think one un named member's effort was over represented, and it wasn't even his best work.
Maybe the most endearing and enjoyable aspect of this LP is never ever did the trio of Squire-Wakeman-Howe ever jam so well in snyc. Well at least in the two best songs. OTOH, I feel that Anderson's touch was just a little too evident in the songwriting aspects. Anderson has made great music, but when he singularly focuses on the airy, light balladry? Some Yes fans dig this stuff, but when Jon basically wrestles 60% of artisitc control of the album in this mode? That is why thought is album is excellent, and isn't a classic like about 7 or 8 others the band made. Another point I love to highlight , is this might be the most prevalent that Wakeman used a large church organ in a Yes LP. I have probably mentioned several times that I think the most beautiful and impressive musical sound on earth is a Huge Church Organ playing at 100 dB in a Major Chord, that is so loud that it rattles not only your sternum, but almost every other bone in your body. Those sounds give me chills. Wakeman delivers the goods big time in the 2 epic songs, and in my book are highly overlooked in the annals of Yes Prog Lore. Wish Emerson had dedicated more of ELP's work to this device.
A lot of fans consider this to be the start of the band's dark period. This LP, and subsequent Tormato and Drama definitely gave the band a feeling it was in a slump. I don't consider this a bad LP by any stretch of the imagination, but when sometimes I wonder if the band was just becoming a tad bored, and maybe just meeting record production obligations. Not musical qualit as it applies to the craft, but the song writing had just a few moments, and not continous classics that you expected. I always believed it took the new blood of Trevor Rabin to reinvigorate Yes into their massively creative self again. And by 1983, this band was back with a vengenace, and sealed their legendary status for history.
Fun Fact: Purely anecdotal, but if I can from memory, I remember reading that there was some anamosity by "Going For the One" around the level of success each member got during the hiatus for solo projects. Did this impact the product quality? We might never know.
Side 1-
---------
Going For the One- Talk about a weak title track. Trying to explain what the band was trying to accomplish is difficult. Howe's slide guitar runs just don't give the band a good feel on what I believe was their attempt to do Mainstream, but give an edgy feel. Props to Squire though for (as ususal) some great bass work. His work saves the song. Song itself and summation is pointless, and and ill conceived. 3
Turn of the Century- This is Anderson at his iritating balladish worst. I understand his persona, but I just hate it when he channels his inner Barry Manilow. Howe does do some nice spanish guitar type work. But I just can't get past sappy Yes. Well just as long is there are some prog classics canceling it out. The symphonic like instrumentals at the end are somewhat helpful in saving it. 5
Parallels- First of the two classics. Wakeman starts his church organ like a sledge hammer, and the song continously has incredbily complex, beautiful, and mindbogglingly innovative instrumental interplay between Wakeman-Squire-Howe. How they are able to run 3 vocal, simtaneoously with 3 specific different instrumental patterns is an incredible musical accomplishment. The chaos created is beyond compreshension in its level of complexity. But the chaos is so beyond normal creativity..... Incredible. 2
Side 2-
------------
Wonderous Stories- (See Turn of the Century) 4
Awaken- One of the most amazing works by the band, and often highly overlooked given the other weaknesses in the LP. This in its entirety, is the essence of a classic rock symphony. Ever member is equall contributing into what feels feels is a neo-classical work that is just as complex, bearutiful, and moving as much anything made by most of the 18th or 19th century classical masters. The song moves, ebbs, and flows, into movements capturing a musical lesson for all. They move keys and time signatures around like a 500 piece puzzle, with incredible ease and flair. How the song so calibratingly builds upon itself is a exercise of composership that is rare. Wakeman's organ work here is some of the best of his career. Close your eyes and let the song take you on a journey. If you are a Yes fan, and this one isn't on your play list?...... 1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gl6w--kDPOc (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gl6w--kDPOc)
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Fun Fact: Maybe the only act I have heard where brothers made up 2 of the 3 members. Anyone else
Runrig (Scottish group I loved) started by two brothers Calum and Rory Macdonald (and a friend)... My dream group would be a mix of Runrig and Big Country.
Known for being a great live band that put on near perfect live performances (As Big Country did). 30 year career musicians.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l22QWmFdyOI
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Runrig (Scottish group I loved) started by two brothers Calum and Rory Macdonald (and a friend)... My dream group would be a mix of Runrig and Big Country.
Known for being a great live band that put on near perfect live performances (As Big Country did). 30 year career musicians.
If you believe the dna testing outfits, and look at my surnames in the past 300 years, I'm about 1/3 Scottish origin maybe why I enjoyed Big Country too back in the 1980's. Is neat how they did incorporate Gaelic-speak in their lyrics. Which I don't think Big Country did some.
But thanks. I was stumped. Had not heard this band, and their stuffs good.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Alanis Morrissette- Jagged Little Pill (1995) **
I want to start today's review with one of the most vexing questions that has ever been asked of us guys...... When your wife or girlfriend asks you "Does This Dress Make My Butt Look Big"? How many of you have ever said "yes"? If you did, let me know how that went. :cool: I wanted to treat today's album more as a sociological primer. First things first, if you missed the mid 90's and didn't experience this on the radio, l want to let you know way up front, that this is one Angry Woman. She does, however provide a perspective that clicks in the psyche of the female species. And yes, we are all human, but the interaction of the sexes has perplexed mankind since the dawn of us living in caves. And to us guys, women find us also often perplexing and un-solveable. A few decades ago a book was written called Men are From Mars, Women are From Venus. There was a lot of truth to it. To many there are a lot more differences in the personalities of women and men, than similaries. Trying to understand each other, is important.
I don't claim to be an expert or a seer when it comes to spousal success or understanding the oppisite sex, but I do think that after 40 years together, the "To Death to We Part" is a highly likely scenario for us. As with any couple, it is impossible to avoid 100% of squabbles, but the key is understanding, and making sure they remain minor.
But back to the matter of the album. There is nothing utterly exciting about the musicanship, and the album has a true session man feel. She pieced together several differnent combos that I guess best work for the sound she was looking for. She did add a couple of well known guys like Dave Navarro and Flea. So, this work can not be placed in the total no-name category. As far as legacy.... AM became an almost ulitmate version of a one hit wonder. She never got near this level of attention or success.
The album has a lot of pop sensibility, with major hooks, but the true draw for the masses was the lyrical content. It's a decent listen, but not a classic by any stretch of imagination. Though if you remember the awards shows, you'd think this was the reincarnation of Sgt. Peppers. This sucker got 9 grammy nominations, and sold 33M units world wide. But what the hell do I know huh?
In summation, this is one of the best examples of framing and encapsulating the female perspective. Not all women, granted, but there is enough in this for all of us to learn. I will try not to be sexist in this piece, but being sexist by itself is an absolute admission that there is a difference between us. Prove me Wrong.
Fun Fact: For one flaming, angry, foaming mouth feminist- Number of female musicans accompanying her on this CD- 0 (Zero) out of 12.
Track-
----------
1. All I Really Want- Very strong grunge-ish opening. Good instrumental fuzzish with an up and down exercise in histrinonics. Song effectively goes into (as others) into self reflective frustrations 1
Lesson 1- Sometimes the ladies can not or willl not try understand what they really want. That is why one of our biggest frustrations, as men, is indeciveness. Sometimes its just better to understand the wiring rather than the machine itself.
2. You Oughta Know- A harder rocker that takes AM to her angriest heights. Has Navarro and Flea for some nice pizazz in the tune. 2
Lesson 2- An angry scorned woman is ofen more vicious than a rabid Badger. Don't go there.
3. Perfect- Substandard ballad that is major drop from the earlier two, and a flop that just covers interelationship matters. 12
4. Hand in My Pocket- Huge hit, a and pleasant melody. Actually an upbeat additon, that pretty much focuses on self-confliction. 5
5. I See Right Through You- More of the anger theme of conflict among the sexes. This poor woman has some serious deep and lingering oobsessive grudge issues. Lower tier on the album. What do they put in the Water in Canada? 11
6. Forgiven- Another non descript, filler-ish number that takes Ms. Morissette into some swipes at her religion too. 10
7. You Learn- Another of serveral hits. A self depreciating example of confliction of aspects of life that often out of one's control. es, a reoccruing theme, as you might have observed. 6
Lesson No.3 -Responding to self pity is better nutured, rather than throwing gas on the fire.
8. Head Over Feet- In this Ocean of Anger, AM comes out with a positive heartfelt love song. Yes, a shocker. And a really fine ballad at that.I always believed this was added just for balance. 3
Lesson No. 4. Even AM is not one dimensionally angry. Remember the posters and T-shirts...... 90% Angel, 10% Bitch. Don't Push It!!!? There is a lot more truth to that than we realize.
9. Mary Jane- More filler that whails like a silly 1980's power ballad. Hard Pass.8
10. Ironic- Very nice counter and innovative take on the concept of irony. Hooky pop number that is one of the stronger efforts on the LP. 4
Lesson (Observation) No. 5- I never understood the importance of not having a rainy day on your wedding day, unless it is an outdoor venue. Isn't this one of the functions of umbreallas. Just my take.
11. Not the Doctor- Verse 1, 1st Sentence- I don't want to be the Filler- Too Late 9
12. Wake Up- Kind of a book end of All I Really Want, espcially with almost idential percussive structure. As far as lyrically, AM had to throw a few more digs at the Male POV. And she almost does it an almost defeatist fashion, and with passion. You know.... There are aspects of AM that I can almost picture in many angry liberal women like AOC. Just because some want to live with a perpetual chip on their shoulder, doesn't mean the rest of us have to accept it or humor it. 7
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_DBP9OWIyB0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_DBP9OWIyB0)
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@catfish1957
I was never a fan of hers but I will check out the album based on your review.
She may have just slipped by me and I think I only know what I heard on the radio - Like Casey Kasem
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@catfish1957
I was never a fan of hers but I will check out the album based on your review.
She may have just slipped by me and I think I only know what I heard on the radio - Like Casey Kasem
@Gefn
Pretty much what you heard on the radio is the extent of listenability. My primary intent on the review of this LP, was highlighting her interesting aspect and take of the female perspective and psyche. Not too many albums did as good a job of channeling such anger to vinyl (plastic) as she did at that very moment. Maybe she over dramatized it, but I can remember a moment in the very early 80's where one particular break up of mine looked like it might end up with a butcher knife somewhere in my torso.
How off base do you think AM was? There is a part of me, that wants to believe that this is more a function of left leaning women, rather than women in general. That's at least my story, and I am sticking to it, :cool:
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@Gefn
Pretty much what you heard on the radio is the extent of listenability. My primary intent on the review of this LP, was highlighting her interesting aspect and take of the female perspective and psyche. Not too many albums did as good a job of channeling such anger to vinyl (plastic) as she did at that very moment. Maybe she over dramatized it, but I can remember a moment in the very early 80's where one particular break up of mine looked like it might end up with a butcher knife somewhere in my torso.
How off base do you think AM was? There is a part of me, that wants to believe that this is more a function of left leaning women, rather than women in general. That's at least my story, and I am sticking to it, :cool:
I am going to think about this, but I have a different view of AM radio. I grew up listening to it, yes, it was the top 40 and a lot of bubblegum and what not, but I also grew up listening to Jean Shepard and Bob and Ray on WOR. I didn't get into hard rock and alternative bands until I was in HS and then of course college. S
I do know my parents didn't like a lot of the 60s and early 70s songs. But they did like the Beatles and Simon and Garfunkel and I got several albums for Winter Hollidays and birthdays - and grandma bought me Barry Manilow! And Wings.
So I guess I grew up listening to Classic Light Rock and Bubblegum
@catfish1957
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Emerson Lake and Palmer- Tarkus (1971). ***
Happy New Year. Today's installment is the best composition from the best composers of rock history. So why only 3 stars? Just because a piece of music is at its utter best at composition, does not necessarily mean, translate, and correlate 100% to a great listenable experience. The album Tarkus is exponentially complex versus most any rock album I have ever heard , and is one of those works that the enigmatic Keith Emerson basically did, because he could. With his well received and critically acclaimed debut album, Emerson went off the virtuositous rails, and made in history what may be the most "hookless" before and anything after in rock history. Side 1, is an one phrase can be described as an epic exercise of Keith Emerson Self Indulgence. And as through out his entire career, Emerson pretty much didn't give a shit what anyone else thought. The better line share of Tarkus is conceptially, at least from my perspective, listen, and visual of the album cover about some sci-fi Armadillo like contraption, reveling in its wares of war. A kind of musical massive mish mash that in some ways I think influenced Queen with Ogre Battle, and Rush with Bytor and the Snow Dog.
Fun Fact: Considering, as I menitoned, there was basically zero percent hook on this album, and the most radio unfriendly albumin history. This album still charted in the Top 10 in the US, and No. 1 in the UK.
Listening to side one is an exhaustive matter. Emerson crazily over does the time and key changes that if my trained ear is hearing right, rifes extensively 10/8/...9/8 .... 7/8....down to 5/8. and reverses, in a manner that it amost seemed Keith was playing a game of musical parchessee. Where so many struggle with not only understanding compostion, creation, and execution, Emerspn toyed with it, like a cat playing with a mouse, before killing it on the spot. ELP may not have been the greatest rock stars of all time, but I can say with some certainity, they were not only the most literate, but head and shoulder genius above any other. And in this vein, up there with likes of of the 18th and 19th century masters. And don't forget with the focus on Emerson, soometimes we lose site that he may have had one of the greatest supprting casts in rock history. All 3 of these guys are at the top of their craft, The chaotic keyboard work weaves in and out into Lake led and well vocalized promenade like anthems that blend into masterful, almost Gilmore like guitar work. But still the chaos, while musically fascinating, just doesn't fufill the prog satisfaction fan in me. Simply put, Keith Emerson pull more into style and pizazz than stuff that is good to listen to. This is the kind of album that in a college class in music composition you were forced to listen to for academic value. 1. 1, based on complexity and genius.
Side 2 is massiely different, and goes into differnt forays of styles, with mixed results.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jeremy Bender- Barrell house 19th century like rinky tink piano. Weakest number on the LP. Seems Emerson did this on almost every album. Almost as a joke 7
Bitches Crystal (Note missing, skipped from main YT offering)- Video Added below- The only song that seemed to take or borrow from the Tarkus licks. Unique music box entry, transitions into a mostly Tarkus bedlam likely mix of crazy melodies and spashed keyboard runs. Wow. 3
The Only Way (Hymn) I have made no secret or mystery that my favorite instrument on earth is a large church organ. Fantastic, lovely, and expansive. This song was my first introduction to what the holocaust was in 1971, at age 13. As strange as it was conveyed. A lot of this harkens to a Bachian like music structure. I wish Keith Emerson would have done a lot more of these. 2
Infinite Space Space (Coonclusion) A piano piece in almost repet concetio fashion that gives the listener some improv like, almost jaszzish fodder that I guess was there to "conclude" or other wise augment The Only Way- 5
A Time and a Place- The most standard as a rocker a start that eventially spirals out of control into keyboard pandemonium. At times Emerson, seems to be intricately blending his melodic patterns into almost harmonies within harmonies. Not sure I am conveying that well enough, but........ Thinking this is a middle of the road ELP contribution, just gives you an idea of how massively talented these 3 were. 4
Are You Ready Eddy- Rockabilly number that allows Keith to play Jerrry Lee Lewis. Technically, this is fine from a musical perspective, but I doubt many paid $5 at the time to have ELP take them back to the 1950's for a rehash. At least not me. 6
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9t1rh_740SI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9t1rh_740SI)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q4k2nUK5CzY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q4k2nUK5CzY)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Enya- Shepherd Moons (1991) ***
Enya has a strong catalog, but this particular album, is head and shoulder what I feel is the next best..... "The Memory of Trees". Very much more consistent, and utterly ehterally, and celestially beautiful.
In a word... Yes "ethereal" is the perfect description... I own most all her albums.... the latter were weaker contributions... Her sister Clannad did a few great songs too. The layering of voice, the chill factor was off the charts. Often imitated, never matched.
Like Kate Bush, just a sound of her own. Thanks for throwing a wrench in the machinery and daring to post this.
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____________________________________
For my amusement... I am going to repaste your list for future reference.
Index of Record Reviews- Band-Album-Page No. on thread (from Maj. Bill and Catfish)
========================================
AC DC- Back In Black- 26. ****
AC DC- For Those About to Rock- 43 *** 1/2
AC-DC- High Voltage- 35 ****
Aerosmith- Get Your Wings- 45 *** 1/2
Aerosmith- Rocks- 30 *** 1/2
Aersosmith- Toys in the Attic- 30 ****
Alice Cooper- Billion Dollar Babies- 27 ****
Alice Cooper- Killer- 42 *** 1/2
Alice Cooper- Love it to Death- 38 *** 1/2
Alice Cooper Welcome to My Nightmare- 43 *** 1/2
Amboy Dukes- Journey to the Center of a Mind- 39 ** 1/2
Eric Burdon and the Animals- Winds of Change- 42 ** 1/2
Asia- Asia- 38 * 1/2
The Beach Boys- Pet Sounds- ** 1/2
The Beatles- Sargent Pepper's Lonely Heart Club Band- 30 *****
The Beatles- Abbey Road- 44 *****
Big Country- The Crossing= *** 1/2
Black Oak Arkansas, Black Oak Arkansas- 32 *** 1/2
Black Sabbath- Master of Reality- 43 ****
Black Sabbath- Volume 4- 26 ****
Blink 182- Enema of the State- 32 *** 1/2
Blink 182- Take Off Your Pants and Jacket- 46 ***
Blue Cheer- Blue Cheer- 44- ***
Blue Oyster Cult- Agents of Fortune- 28 ****
Blue Oyster Cult- The Revolution By Night- 38 *** 1/2
Bloodrock-II - 29 *** 1/2
Boston-Boston- 26 *****
Boston- Walk On- 37 ****
Jackson Browne- Lawyers in Love- 38 ***
The Cars- Candy-O - 28 ****
The Cars-The Cars- 39 ****
Chicago- Chicago- 29 *** 1/2
Creedence Clearwater Revival- Cosmo's Factory- 45 *****
Creedence Clearwater Revival- Willy and the Poor Boys- 27 *****
Creme- Disraeli Gears- 37 **** 1/2
Marshall Crenshaw- Marshall Crenshaw- 46 ** 1/2
Deep Purple- Burn- 37 ****
Deep Purple- Machine Head- 30 **** 1/2
Def Leppard- Hysteria- 29 ****
Derek and the Dominos- Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs- 40 ****
Dire Straits- Love Over Gold- 41 **** 1/2
Dire Straits- Making Movies- 36 ****
The Doors-The Doors-30 ***
Dream Theatre- Images and Words- 37 ***
Eagles- The Long Run- 37. ***
Emerson Lake and Palmer- Brain Salad Surgery- 26 **** 1/2
Emerson Lake and Palmer- Pictures at an Exhibition- 32 ****
Emerson Lake and Palmer- Trilogy- 42 **** 1/2
Eno- Another Green World- 34
Enya- Shepherd Moons- 46 ***
Fleetwood Mac Rumors-46 *** 1/2
Fleetwood Mac- Tusk- 43 ****
Foghat- Night Shift- 42 ****
Foreigner- IV- 29 *** 1/2
Genesis- Trespass- 36
Golden Earring- Moontan- 33 *** 1/2
Grand Funk Railroad- Closer to Home- 35 ***
Green Day- American Idiot- 29 ***
Guns and Roses- Appetite for Destruction- 39 *
Heart- Bad Animals- 45 ***
Honeymoon Suite- The Big Prize -44 *** 1/2
Hooters- Nervous Nights- 45 ***
INXS- Listen Like Thieves- 36 ***
Jimi Hendrix- Are you Experienced- 34 **** 1/2
James Gang- Rides Again- 29 ****
Jethro Tull- Aqualung- 32 *** 1/2
Journey- Infinity- 35 *** 1/2
Kansas- Leftoverture- 28 ****
Kansas - Point of Know Return- 41 ****
King Crimson- In the Court of the Crimson King- 34 *** 1/2
Kiss- Destroyer- 30 ***
Led Zeppelin- 42 *****
Led Zeppelin- II- 41 *****
Led Zeppelin- III- 29 *****
Led Zeppelin-IV- 25 *****
Led Zeppelin- Houses of the Holy- 44 ****
Led Zeppelin- Physical Grafitti- 46 **** 1/2
Loverboy- Get Lucky- 45 ***
Lynyrd Skynyrd- Lynyrd Skynrd- 33 ****
Metallica- Black Album- 35 ** 1/2
Steve Miller Band- Book of Dreams- 29 *** 1/2
The Moody Blues- Days of Future Past- 35 **** 1/2
The Moody Blues- 7th Sojourn- 28 **** 1/2
Nazareth- Hair of the Dog -37 ***
Willie Nelson- Red Headed Stranger- 40 ***
Nine Inch Nails- The Downward Spiral- 37 ****
Nine Inch Nails- Pretty Hate Machine- 45 ***
Nirvanna- Nevermind- 35 **
The Offspring- Splinter- 45 ***
Mike Oldfield- Tubular Bells- 37 ** 1/2
Tom Petty and Heartbreakers- Damn the Torpedos- 42 *** 1/2
Tom Petty- Full Moon Fever- 25 *****
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers- Into the Great Wide Open- 34 ****
Pink Floyd- Dark Side of the Moon- 40 ****
Pink Floyd- Momentary Lapse of Reason- 43 ****
Pink Floyd- The Wall- 45 **
Queen- Queen- 36 ****
Queen- II- 43 ****
Ramones- Ramones- 28 ****
Rare Earth- One World- 44 ***
Roxy Music- For Your Pleasure- 35 ***
Rush- 2112- 26 *****
Rush- Grace Under Pressure- 43 *****
Rush- Hemispheres- 41 *****
Rush- Moving Pictures- 30 *****
Rush- Roll the Bones- 45 *****
Rush- Vapor Trails- 41 ****
Bob Seger- Against the Wind- 26 ****
The Sex Pistols- Never Mind the Bullocks- 33 **
Smashing Pumpkins- Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness- 31 *** 1/2
Smashing Pumpkins- Siamese Dream- 45 ***
The Smithereens- 11- 37 ** 1/2
Styx- Equinox- 33 **** 1/2
Styx- Grand Illusion- 26 **** 1/2
Styx- Pieces of Eight- 45 **** 1/2
Synergy- Sequencer- 40 *** 1/2
Sum 41- All Killer No Filler 46 ** 1/2
Toto- Isolation- 34 ***
Trapeze- Medusa- 40 ***
The Traveling Wilbur's- Vol. 1- *** 1/2
Robin Trower- Bridge of Sighs- *** 1/2
UFO- Obsession- ***
Uriah Heep- Demons and Wizards- 28 ***
Van Halen- Van Halen- 40 ** 1/2
Weezer- Blue Album- 35 ***
Edgar Winter Group- They Only Come Out at Night- 43 ***
The Who- Tommy- 32 **** 1/2
The Who- Who's Next- 26 *****
Yes- 90125- 44 *****
Yes- Talk- 39 *****
Yes- The Yes Album- 27 *****
Neil Young and Crazy Horse- Rust Never Sleeps- 38 ****
Frank Zappa- Apostrophe- 31 ****
ZZ Top- Eliminator-44 **** 1/2
ZZ Top- Tres Hombres- 28 ****
*- Poor
**- Good
***- Very Good
****- Excellent
*****- Classic, indispensable
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No Marshall Tucker Band reviews?
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@Gefn
How off base do you think AM was? There is a part of me, that wants to believe that this is more a function of left leaning women, rather than women in general. That's at least my story, and I am sticking to it, :cool:
I’m not sure she was off-base much. Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned.
I think it’s a fantastic song, but certainly not a song to live by. happy77
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No Marshall Tucker Band reviews?
I saw Louisiana Lerooux' and the Marshal Tucker Band with my girl friend at the time on December 27, 1978. $7.50 on the stub that I still have. There were other southern bands that I preferered like Black Oak, Skynrd, Allman Bros., Tom Petty, among others. And I do know and understand that Marshal Tucker had a bit more tinge of C & W than the others, and that might have jaded my like for this particualr band.
But the moment they broke out in "Fire on the Mountiain", I remember the crowd got pretty ignited. It's a great song that catches the historic pioneer spirit in much the same manner that Johnny Horton did. Well.....With mabe a tad different approach though. Just my tastes. But doing a little research, and this is a pretty neat and obscure fact and trivia. question.....
Not 100.00% sure, but decently sure after reviewing.
Name the only four bands (acts) to have 5 consecutive albums to chart Top the Top 50 in both the Pop and Country charts?
The first three of them are pretty obvious due to their cross over success ... Eagles, Garth Brooks and Alabama.
The 4th? Marshal Tucker. Quite a shock.
(oops, left off the ulitmate obvious- Eagles)
The likes of Cash, Dolly, Willie, Shania, Waylon, Swift, Faith, Hank Williams etc. Nope, unless I overloked someone, let me know.
Before, rambling on too far, I wanted to share one bad ass southern rock song, that doesn't seem to get its due in the modern era. One of my favorites of the genre. This has some incredible ax work. An in some ways out-Skynrd'ed Skynrd., Which btw, did anyone catch them on Fox's New years Age Party? Those old fogeys still got a bit left in their tank I'd say. Which by contrast an hour earlier, CNN celebrated the new year, by showing their first image of the new year of two bleep kissing, Yes, America..... We are that divided. Faggortry vs, Lynrd Skynrd/Free Bird........ You decide, I have.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cz2CAtExXgQ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cz2CAtExXgQ)
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Anyone else think that Mr. Claypool might know what he is doing on the "4 String"? :laugh:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hMsJlJdWof8 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hMsJlJdWof8)
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I saw Louisiana Lerooux' and the Marshal Tucker Band with my girl friend at the time on December 27, 1978. $7.50 on the stub that I still have. There were other southern bands that I preferered like Black Oak, Skynrd, Allman Bros., Tom Petty, among others. And I do know and understand that Marshal Tucker had a bit more tinge of C & W than the others, and that might have jaded my like for this particualr band.
But the moment they broke out in "Fire on the Mountiain", I remember the crowd got pretty ignited. It's a great song that catches the historic pioneer spirit in much the same manner that Johnny Horton did. Well.....With mabe a tad different approach though. Just my tastes. But doing a little research, and this is a pretty neat and obscure fact and trivia. question.....
Not 100.00% sure, but decently sure after reviewing.
Name the only four bands (acts) to have 5 consecutive albums to chart Top the Top 50 in both the Pop and Country charts?
The first three of them are pretty obvious due to their cross over success ... Eagles, Garth Brooks and Alabama.
The 4th? Marshal Tucker. Quite a shock.
(oops, left off the ulitmate obvious- Eagles)
The likes of Cash, Dolly, Willie, Shania, Waylon, Swift, Faith, Hank Williams etc. Nope, unless I overloked someone, let me know.
Before, rambling on too far, I wanted to share one bad ass southern rock song, that doesn't seem to get its due in the modern era. One of my favorites of the genre. This has some incredible ax work. An in some ways out-Skynrd'ed Skynrd., Which btw, did anyone catch them on Fox's New years Age Party? Those old fogeys still got a bit left in their tank I'd say. Which by contrast an hour earlier, CNN celebrated the new year, by showing their first image of the new year of two bleep kissing, Yes, America..... We are that divided. Faggortry vs, Lynrd Skynrd/Free Bird........ You decide, I have.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cz2CAtExXgQ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cz2CAtExXgQ)
@catfish1957
As you can probably guess,I am a HUGE fan of the MTB,the Outlaws,the Allman Brothers,and most of all,Pink Floyd. Yeah,PF have no idea what the word "boogie" means,but they make up for it in other areas.
Was invited backstage to meet the Allman Brothers after a concert once,but the woman I was with at that time happened to be married,and I had to get her home before dawn,and had plans for that extra time. Figured I could do it the next time they came to town,but the school mate of theirs that was going to introduce me moved away before they came back.
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@catfish1957
I was never a fan of hers but I will check out the album based on your review.
She may have just slipped by me and I think I only know what I heard on the radio - Like Casey Kasem
I like the album a lot. One of the darkest periods of my life, but the music soothed my insanity at the time.
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GFW-WfuX2Dk)
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Before, rambling on too far, I wanted to share one bad ass southern rock song, that doesn't seem to get its due in the modern era. One of my favorites of the genre. This has some incredible ax work. An in some ways out-Skynrd'ed Skynrd.,
I rank GG&HT above Freebird. And I love Skynyrd.
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@catfish1957
Was invited backstage to meet the Allman Brothers after a concert once,but the woman I was with at that time happened to be married,and I had to get her home before dawn,and had plans for that extra time. Figured I could do it the next time they came to town,but the school mate of theirs that was going to introduce me moved away before they came back.
@sneakypete
That's a great story, and I bet you had some regrets there. Only thing ever near that cool, for me was on May 7, 1983 having a beer with the Ramones during the set break at a concert (bar) with about only 50 attending. Got a set of drum sticks from Marky for stumping the band on their catalog on a really obscure number from what I remember was either their 3rd or 4th album. Still have that ticket stub too.
Joey told me was surprised that someone like me would know their stuff in this "redneck hell hole". :silly:
MIL threw away the drum sticks while helping clean up the house in the mid 1990's. I was sick.
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I had a couple of Enya albums back in the day. Really like listening to them with one caveat.
Do not play in the car. She can make you sleepy, and the next thing you know you could be in trouble.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- The Moody Blues- To Our Children's Children's Children (1969) ****
I had previously reviewed the bookends of what I feel is the Golden era of the Moody Blues, and those two were the most imaginative, with their first being in the forefront of innovation, and the latter (Seventh Sojourn) their apex of their songwriting. Still, there are 5 absolute gems in the middle, and are all classics. I really struggled with picking one of them. As none of them are bad, and all 5 epics in the early and formative years of progressive rock. I finally worked it down to two. Their second (Threshold of a Dream) and this one. Threshold is so strikingly and breakingly innovative in the matter oof their progession as a band. The Moody's are not only the first to perform their craft via chemical assistance, they were outright flaunting it. And the level of creativity was truly incredible. I know Pink Floyd gets the credit as the God Fathers of Prog, but these really were the ones who got overlooked for being the true pioneers who introduced it at inception, and gave it its foothold as a musical genre.
I finally chose Children's Children's Children, because of in one example this is probably the bands's outside the debut, the most pure concept album they produced. The debut was themed simply as a day of a life. This one is much much much more deep, and has a heavy existential spacey theme that, that has some really thought provoking ad philosophical..... "Therefore I Am" conceptual feel that parses time, space, and how life is just a blip on the screen. Overall musically wide, I view this and the second albums as equals, but this one has that magic feel that extracts almost a pure equal contribution of songwriting talent. Most bands have one or two good songwriters, this band has 4 who each have contirbuted heaviy to their catalog. I also love the fact that when you listen to Moody Blues music, you can almost with 100% certainty predict who was the principle writer. They were that diverse, and unique in each of their styles.
I tell people that every Moody Blues album... at least the first 7 are a journey into thought provoking themes. And I suggest that if you are not familiar with this band, stream or screen the lyrics as you are listening. It enhances the listening experience, and gives you an idea if what a great talent these 5 guys were. I know there are a lot of fans who like the post 1972 stuff, but from my POV, something changed, much like someone messing with Classic Coke. Put again, just my take.
Fun fact: Michael Pinder not only was one the first to use the Mellotron on vinyl, but was actually involved in the R & D and concept of its commercialization in the early 1960's.
Side 1-
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Higher and Higher- Spacey intro into this journey, and an obviously some references that the chemicals were doing a nice job on the creativity juices. Song beautifully builds with some very strong Hayward almost psychadelic like licks that were very much indicative of the times- 5
Eyes of a Child I- Light balladry, that has incredible vocal harmonies. That this is a lower tier number on this LP, is just some heavy proof how solid this album is. Song fits well with theming. 13
Floating- Ode to their numerous flights. Yeah, Timothy Leary wasn't dead. I am guessing (speculating) that since this song is wedged between the Eyes, that their intent was that the LSD trips was basically being reborn. Never seen any accoounts or documentaries to this point. Just my guess. :silly: 7
Eyes of a Child II- Second installment is much more rocking and shorter. Same theme is suppose. 9
I Never Thought I'd Live to Be a Hundred- Very nice, but again short accoustic ballad by Hayward. And I will go on record saying that he was the best in this aspect of the Moody Blues talent pool. 8
Beyond- Instrumental transition that is standard band jamming, and crazy flute runs that are often seen in their repitoire 10
Out and In- Love the lyricaly inward inflection the band uses in basically saying look outward, outside of you norm of reality, by what means possible. Not a proponent of Haullucagens, and never used them, but these guys seem to endorse them. 3
Side 2-
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Gypsy (Of a Strange and Distant Time)- The most traditonal sounding Moody sounding song on the LP., though and again staying true to the concept of time travel. Outside Watching, last song..... Some of Pinder's nicest Mello work. Everyone adds nicely on this fantastic song- 2
Eternity Road- With a Ray Thomas number, its usually a real hit or miss. This is more on the miss side of the tally. Not awful obviously, but if there are ones to skip, and I don't reccomend skipping anything in a concept album, but this would be the one. 12
Candle of Life- Only song on the album that was listed as a collaboration (Lodge/Hayward). Has that nice flowing rocking sound that you get a lot of on Seventh Sojurn. Pointed and effective narrative of the fragility and shortness of life. Interesting how we view these songs at different points of our life. The band had wisdom streak a mile wide. 5
Sun is Still Shining- Somewhat back to a psychedelic styling with eastern sitar like infusion that was seen in the day. 11
Never Thought I would Live to Be a Million- Brief acoustic account of. the concept of life as it sits within the realm of eternity. Masterfully preludes to m favorite - 6
Watching and Waiting- Wow, where do I start. First let me say this is one of the most beautiful, overlooked, and under-appreciated songs in the entire Moody Blues extensive playbook. To me this is so hauntingly beautiful, and epically and thought provoking visual of a timeless entity,maybe a higher being living in the prepice first hand and witnessing eternity.... alone. Pinder's Mello is so spine tingling beautiful, and augments so perfectly with Haywards perfect inflective vocals. If you only have time for one song. Please sample this one 1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5j0y71bx2K8 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5j0y71bx2K8)
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Tommorow will mark the 4 year mark we lost the Professor. RIP.
(https://media.npr.org/assets/img/2020/01/11/gettyimages-134591594-23d365ada00e44e9736f1d75d47df4c167801e3b.jpg)
Geddy, Alex.... Time to get back in the studio with someone like Carl Palmer, Mike Portnoy, Chad Smith, etc.
(LLP has a nice ring too it (Lee Lifeson and Palmer)
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Tommorow will mark the 4 year mark we lost the Professor. RIP.
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YSToKcbWz1k)
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Geddy, Alex.... Time to get back in the studio with someone like Carl Palmer, Mike Portnoy, Chad Smith, etc.
How about Danny Carey?
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C4mPNuAaB34)
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How about Danny Carey?
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C4mPNuAaB34)
Carey would def. be in that etc. category. Tool does a great job of mixing complexity, prog, and mystery, and Carey would do fine.
Suppsedly, Portnoy is the biggest Rush fan boy of the lot, and probably knows the catalog the best.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Rush- Permanet Waves - (1980) *****
In honor of Peart's 4th anniversary death, thought it would be nice to cover another one of the band's great classics.... Permanent Waves was right in the exact middle of the truly great and prog centristic universe of this legendary band. This LP comes off the heels oof what the band in documentaries has called the most exhasustive album (Hemispheres), and that showed in the fact that 1979 was the first calendar year that the band did not release an LP. Lavilla Strangito's assertion as an exercise in self indulgence was never more true. Piecing together Hemispheres had to be an exhaustive process, and to transition into something a tad more conventional, though no less impactuful, had to be a welcome respite.
Permanent Waves has a simplier feel (not all, but some) , a tad more hooked, but no less greater. Every member contributes at the highest level. There can be no underestimating how great Rush was in the late 1970's and early 1980's. Don't get me wrong, I love Geddy's choice to take the band to their next synth phase in the mid 1980's, but as good as those albums were, they never matched the 7 consecutive that were done between 1976 and 1984. Just this fan's take, but I don't any band in history made 7 straight this great before, and likely ever again. Every one of them are 5 Star LP's.
What also makes this album so additinally special, is that in some ways the band stepped away from the concept aspects, and decided to not only make great music, this might one of the most stylistically diverse of the stuff in the early half of their career. Yeah, way later in the 21st century they were all over the map. Maybe too way over. This one gives every Rush fan what they want. They get standard hard rock and roll, prog, melodic almost classical, reggae, and bits and pieces that highights the immense diverse talents that they had. And like many in this era... Zip filler. you get 100% fine stuff. So when you see my ranking, don't think the lower numbers are any aspersion on any song. They are all great. I sure as hell miss this band, but will enjoy what they provided while I can. AND hope that after 4 years after Peart's death, that they might venture into the studio for an encore, and a tour would be just icing on the cake. There are plenty of other great great drummers who would be honored to take the gig.
Fun Fact or Un Fun in this case: I'd dock the band a 1/10 a star if I could for changing the 2020 40th anniversary edition cover away from the harmless slight upskirted version. WTF...bowing to wokeness, and guys..... why F___ with perfection.
(https://imagescdn.juno.co.uk/full/CS766561-01A-BIG.jpg)
Side 1-
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Spirit of the Radio- Can you find any Rush fan without this on in the upper tier of their play list? I doubt it. Legendary rock tune that to this day gets massive play on classic rock radio stations, and maybe only less played than Tom Sawyer. Song is an amost transendary blend of what makes Rush great, Thumdering fast bass runs, wailing and searing quick guitar sols, and drum work that few if any could, can, or will be able to replicate with any authenticity. Song is the ultimate ode to the history and prominence of the recording industry. The point that even I think this is the second best song on the album is just more evidence of how great this album is. In 1980 I might have had this at No .1 but just wait...... 2
Freewill- I have always felt that this was one of Peart's greatest poetic pieces. Spritually, or philosophically, you might not agree with this strong libertarian leaning prose, but there is no doubting Neil's level of intellectual prowess. Song has some really nice chording that alternately blends perfectly with bad ass runs. No Filler Zone Folks 4
Jacob's Ladder- The Prog contribution that hits a homer. This mostly instrumental so intricately and powerfully coonveys the feel of a battle and aftermath, kind in the same vein as Bytor and the Snowdog did several years earlier. The synth / Peart interplay is incredible in how tempo accelrations are not only managed, but are seemless. These are masterful musicans. 3
Side 2-
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Entre Nous'- Very standard Rush kind of song, that harkens and sounds more like their mid 1970's versions. More complexity and clearer production though- 5
Different Strings- Softer and the band's balladry contributon Very good, and still this fabulous song is the weakest in a absolutely great album- 6
Natural Science- One of my all time favorites in the entire Rush historical catalog. This song beautifully and encapsulates how and why Rush is so great. Peart's grasp and thoughts about being in general just is spectacular. This song works much like a masterful symphony in how it changes directions, tones, directions, time changes, key changes, mood changes, and on and on and on. Only the genius of Rush can make this level of music. What I have done in the past few years is listen to every live version of it, and watch as it is amazing how their interpretation and approach changes and adjusts at each tour's show. Try it... you'll be floored. Also I have read that Lifeson was quoted as saying that this was his absolute favorite song to play in concert. Watching his enjoyment is great to watch too. Of the 20 or so itinerations, my favoorite version of it is added below1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V7uE2Bqp_ks (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V7uE2Bqp_ks)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EndaI-okEIc (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EndaI-okEIc)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- The Rolling Stones- Let It Bleed- (1969) ** 1/2
First my apologies to the multitude of Stones fans out there, I know there are a ton of them out there. But this is a band that just hasn't been endearing to me through my love of rock and roll which does reach back into the 1960's. First the compliments though. I will grant that the legacy of the Rolling Stones are only eclipsed by the Beatles. And from my POV, if you piece together their best work through their huge volumes of albums, you got some compliations that can't be topped.
The problem is, that I treat an album like a book. Back in the day, when I plopped down that $5.98, I wanted and expected more than one or two songs to enjoy. The Stones never made a consistnetly really good album, which is totally the opposite of the Beatles. Van Halen is a similar band from the 1970's in that respect as the Stones Piece together the best, and you have legends, but looking at them album by album, they are very uneven, and with gobs of filler added. That is why I have waited so long to review a Stones album. There really wasn't one that I could honestly and generously give 3 stars.
And I know I am in the minority, This band was and incredibly is (present tense) hugely enjoyed, loved, and revered by the rock and roll fans, peers, and critics. Jagger and Richards are as about as big as it gets in the annals of rock, so before slamming me about my comments about the band, don't forget musical tastes are highly subjective. I am sure there are a lot of Stones fans who might say the same about Rush, Zep, and Yes too.
It took me months to figure out which of the 31 studio albums that have been made in a (ghasp) 60 year period. I finally narrowed it down to this one "Let It Bleed" and "Sticky Fingers" Almost came down to from my perspective, of (1) which had the best 3, and the one with the least filler. For brevity sake, I am only going to mostly comment and rank the decent ones.
Fun Fact: Counting studio, live, and compliations albums, 35 of these suckers went Platinum. I might not be a big fan, but there sure are others out there who are.
Fun Fact No.2: This is the album that bumped Abbey Road off the No.1 slot on the charts. (briefly)
Side 1-
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Gimme Shelter- The main reason I chose this one to review, and IMO this one, Get Off My Cloud, and Satisfaction are the creme da' creme of the Stones long list of tunes. The best effort I saw in the band's songwriting prowess in perfectly fusing that rocking sound with a perfect dose of blues that are hallmark of this band. Song as a song, is almost synonymous with the late 1960's as evident how often it is in movies, and other media. 1
Love In Vain- Bluezzzzzz ballad, that comes across as second rate Blind Faith. There are so many other choices for this kind of stuff in the era. Filler
Country Honk- Rehashed ruralized Honky Tonk Woman- Silly shit, that I viewed as as a stick in the eye oof the fan. Big Time Filler
Live With Me- More rehashed street fighting kind of linkage- Not quite filler, but adds some sax soloing that makes a tad interesting. 4
Let It Bleed- Title track with nothing but innuendo and laziness as far as songwriting. I guess this was kind of shocking for an earlier generation of long haired Beavis and Buttheads...... Heh Heh Heh!!!! -NOPE!!!!! Filler
Side 2-
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Midnight Rambler- Noticed the Stones often would always put their best songs as the first track. No exception here This is my favorite Stones Blues effort, and they do a great job of giving that 1930's Memphis Delta feel that is well accuentated by that whispy harmonica accompaniment. Added points for the sped up tempo'ed that works very nicely and the almost testimonial type of inclusion that supposedly Robert Johnson used to do in his gigs. 2
You Got the Silver- Jagger for some reason wants to sound like Bob Dylan, on this pointless song. Filler
Monkey Man- I usually hate it when a band adds a live song on a Studio Album. So outiside docking it on that respect, the song itself, is the most tradional sounding Stones song, that has a bit more rock, but still a blues tinge. Decent, and bit better than the filler additons. I know a lot fans say that they prefer iive to studio, with this band. I guess they might, but it has never been my opinion 99.9% of the time 5
You Can't Always Get What You Want- A Big HIt, and well recognized as a 1960's staple. 3
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YLe0f_ne4_4 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YLe0f_ne4_4)
Like I mentioned earlier, if you want a better Stones experience, buy one of several "Best Of" Compliations, albums.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- The Rolling Stones- Let It Bleed- (1969) ** 1/2
@catfish1957
I mostly liked their music,but the one that really blew me away was " Sympathy For The Devil". I usually only pay much attention to the singing,but pretty much EVERYTHING in this song is played to perfection,from the drumming to Keef's guitar solo (no real surprise there). Seems like EVERYBODY taking part in this was having the best day of their musical lives.
Frankly,I was shocked when I first heard it played. "A Rock band in the 60's criticizing Satanism? It just didn't seem possible. Not only that,but EVERY noise from the stage was done with perfection. I normally disliked Mick's voice,but even his voice seemed to be made for this song.
It flat impressed the hell out of me.
BTW,Mick is 80 years old now. Who EVER thought that anybody (except for Keef Richards,of course) from any 60's rock band would live to be 40?
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Live - '71
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t87B4frtEh8)
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As always , you nailed the Stones perfectly @catfish1957 .
Don't get me wrong, I like the Stones (sadly never got to see them) and admire the way they can still keep up the pace they do, but their albums were always a disappointment to me. Usually the best pieces on the albums were the ones that made the top 20. The rest, mediocre at best. That, in my experience, isn't the same with even lesser known artists. The biggest problem I see in today's world is just downloading one song. Sometimes the rest of the album (or whatever they call it these days) is better than the one that makes it to the radio.
You are correct, as I said. Best to buy a "best of". I will say that you picked one of my fav Stones albums. :laugh:
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@catfish1957
BTW,Mick is 80 years old now. Who EVER thought that anybody (except for Keef Richards,of course) from any 60's rock band would live to be 40?
The audacity to make an album within the last year at age 80 is impressive as hell to me. Think about it... their debut album was in 1964, and Jagger was jamming with Richards as early as 1961. Hell, I was just out of diapers.
(https://www.rollingstone.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/hackney-diamonds-black-vinyl-1.jpg?w=1024)
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Don't get me wrong, I like the Stones (sadly never got to see them) and admire the way they can still keep up the pace they do, but their albums were always a disappointment to me. Usually the best pieces on the albums were the ones that made the top 20.
You are correct, as I said. Best to buy a "best of". I will say that you picked one of my fav Stones albums. :laugh:
One thing I always thought was innovative on their behalf, was the bands ability to infuse what was musically trendy, just slightly, and stealthly..from Brit Invasion, to AOR, to punk/new wave, to grunge, etc. etc, etc. to their solid blues base. And make it sound fresh and current.
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Part of the fun of doing these reviews is listening to some of the newer stuff (at least new from my POV)
I had pretty much only been familar with maybe 10% of Primus' works, but after expanding the ear, I am impressed as hell.
Would like to do a review of one of the first 4 (below), but can't decide. Any requests or suggestions?
Frizzle Fry (1990)
Sailing the Seas of Cheese (1991)
Pork Soda (1993)
Tales from the Punchbowl (1995)
Have done the same with NIN. Incredible throughout Reznor's career.
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I had a couple of Enya albums back in the day. Really like listening to them with one caveat.
Do not play in the car. She can make you sleepy, and the next thing you know you could be in trouble.
Some of the deepest bass gets released out from her songs that you don't notice without a good system. Better than most pop music/rap/dance/hip-hop.... Gut wrenching beautiful bass... @Gefn
Dang I still miss my bachelor days car stereo system.... I was partially the reason that sound ordinances were passed in towns... I think I would take a pot shot at myself if I met my dopelerganger from the past.
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On a side note... I am still collecting 80s rarities.... Here is a list of my latest finds... and odds are nobody here has heard more than one or two of them. Don't get me wrong, I like popular stuff too, but I crave the rarities now days.
Number Name
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1 3D - Dance To Believe (Extended Version).mp3
2 Adventures In Paradise - You'll Never Know (Ext).mp3
3 Air Crew - Change Of Heart.mp3
4 All Good Children - Tonight.mp3
5 Android A 21st Century Band - Without You Again.mp3
6 Beyond All Means - Empty Spaces.mp3
7 Big City - You and I.mp3
8 Blue - Riders On The Storm.mp3
9 Boys From The East - Brilliant (7'').mp3
10 Boyzone - Blueprints.mp3
11 Bully Boy - I Don't Remember.mp3
12 Burning Skies Of Elysium - One Afternoon.mp3
13 Care - On The White Cloud (Instr).mp3
14 Catch 22 - Way Of Life (Flashback Mix).mp3
15 Chalk Circle - No April Fool (April 2nd Mix).mp3
16 Charlotte's Web - Victoria.mp3
17 Colin Newman - Better Later Than Never.mp3
18 Curt Lawrence - Vision in Blue (Instr).mp3
19 D-Day - Desperation.mp3
20 Dana Terrell - Not Talkin'.mp3
21 Darkroom - San Paku (Extended 12'' Mix).mp3
22 De Blanche - Numbers.mp3
23 Degrees of Freedom - August Is An Angel.mp3
24 Demars - Love Tonight.mp3
25 Dhuo - Walkin' (Dub).mp3
26 Dhuo - Walkin' (LP Ver).mp3
27 Do It Now - Fugitive From The Grey.mp3
28 Dramatis - Lady DJ (Heavy Edit).mp3
29 Duane O'Kane - Out Of This World.mp3
30 Dubstar - Anywhere (Original Version).mp3
31 Dubstar - Elevator Song (Biff & Memphis).mp3
32 Dubstar - Elevator Song (Original Version).mp3
33 Duty Free - The Point Of Return.mp3
34 Ember Days - Shades Of Evening.mp3
35 Erth - You & I.mp3
36 Except For Access - All I Ever Had.mp3
37 Exit - No Respect.mp3
38 Eye To Ice - Love And War.mp3
39 Fantasia - Summer Fantasy.mp3
40 Fantasia - This Old Town.mp3
41 Fear Of Flying - Not Enough.mp3
42 Fear of Flying - Tears Fall.mp3
43 Fruits of Passion - Kiss Me Now (Ext).mp3
44 Gary O' - Shades Of 45' (Full Length Version).mp3
45 Generra - Don't Cut Me.mp3
46 Generra - Girls in the Hearts.mp3
47 Georgie's Revenge - Love Me.mp3
48 Gerry Cott - Ballad Of The Lone Ranger.mp3
49 Glass Museum - A Friend Departed 1984.mp3
50 Gris Regard - We'll Fly Away.mp3
51 Hambi And The Dance - L'image Craque.mp3
52 Hitlist - Into The Fire (Full Version).mp3
53 Home And Garden - Sir Flea (edit).mp3
54 Howard Hughes - West Of Pecos (Tom Mix).mp3
55 Humanoids On Parade - Come Dream With Me.mp3
56 Idyl Prophets - Feel The Rain.mp3
57 Impossible Dreamers - Say Goodbye To No One (Extended).mp3
58 Intaferon - Baby Pain.mp3
59 Invisible Limits - Golden Dreams (New Order Edit).mp3
60 Invisible Limits - Golden Dreams (Radio Edit).mp3
61 Invisible Limits - How To Be Sure (Radio-Mix).mp3
62 Jacuzzi - Happens All The Time.mp3
63 Johansen - Walkin' A Fine Line (Long).mp3
64 Johansen - Walkin' A Fine Line (Special Fine Mix).mp3
65 John E. Loren - Regrets (A Thousand).mp3
66 Jullan - Mysterious Marionette.mp3
67 Junco Run - Secrets And Silence.mp3
68 K2 - The Body.mp3
69 Kid D. & The Nightshades - Sensation Boys.mp3
70 Kingdoms - Heartland (7'' Version).mp3
71 Lama - Nineteen Ninety Three.mp3
72 Last Gentleman - Everyday (Your Love Wears A Different Face).mp3
73 Luke - Nothing At All (Original Version).mp3
74 Maiden England - If My Mother Should See Me.mp3
75 Max Strom - American Girl.mp3
76 Medea - Nothing Stays The Same.mp3
77 Messengers - I Turn In (To You) (Extended).mp3
78 Metropolis - Wheels Of Time.mp3
79 Moving Targetz - Whisper In the Wind (Monitor Mix).mp3
80 Nervous Germans - Invisible Sign 2013.mp3
81 Nervous Germans - Summer of Love.mp3
82 New Continent - Open Your Eyes.mp3
83 New Models - Silent Running.mp3
84 New Musik - Magazine Musik.mp3
85 New Musik - Sanctuary.mp3
86 Niagara Calls - All Your Love.mp3
87 Nina Persson - Animal Heart.mp3
88 No You Turn - Words Fall Down.mp3
89 No You Turn - X Mas Song.mp3
90 Nocera - Summertime Summertime (Club Mix).mp3
91 Only Human - Wondering.mp3
92 Operating Theatre - Spring is Coming with a Strawberry in the Mouth (12'').mp3
93 P.H.B - I'm Fine.mp3
94 Panic - Midnight.mp3
95 Paul V. - It Was Love.mp3
96 Pep - Never.mp3
97 Perfect Strangers - The Love That Turned Away.mp3
98 Perfect Strangers - Without you (Extended Version) (83).mp3
99 Plane of Section - Looking at Pictures of You.mp3
100 Private Blue - She's Love (12 Version).mp3
101 Red Weather - Bad Guys Stay Away On A Cloudy Day.mp3
102 Robert Kishore - Tropical Fantasy.mp3
103 Rococo - I Need To Surrender.mp3
104 Rok-Etz - Under The Sun.mp3
105 Rupert Hine & Cy Curnin - With One Look (12in).mp3
106 Sacred Moment - Symphony.mp3
107 Schmutz - Far Away.mp3
108 Scott Matthews - Boats In Rivers.mp3
109 Scott Matthews - Elsewhere.mp3
110 Scott Matthews - Shelter from the Wind.mp3
111 Scott Matthews - Ship of Embers.mp3
112 Second Language - In Shadows.mp3
113 Sensible Shoes - Lone Star Hero.mp3
114 Shoc Corridor - My Secret In The East.mp3
115 Slow Progress - Mask.mp3
116 Sontiche - Heart Of Shame.mp3
117 Soundtrack - Ghosts Of Love (12 Inch).mp3
118 Soundtrack - Ghosts of Love (Magnums Mix).mp3
119 Special Division - Keep Searching.mp3
120 Stabilizers - Found Rome.mp3
121 Step Chant Unit - Painting Pictures.mp3
122 Steve Allen - Letter From My Heart (Original).mp3
123 Steve Kent - Twelfth House (Extended).mp3
124 Strange Moves - Only When We Touch.mp3
125 Style - Telephone (Remix).mp3
126 Telekin - Things Worth Keeping.mp3
127 Ten Ten - Silver Heaven.mp3
128 Terry Scott Taylor - A Briefing For The Ascent.mp3
129 Testcard F - Unfamiliar Room.mp3
130 Testpattern - Souvenir Glacé.mp3
131 Thane - Romance Down The Drain.mp3
132 The Bernhardts - Send Your Heart To Me (Extended Mix).mp3
133 The Cardigans - Lovefool (Tee's Club Radio).mp3
134 The Keep - Not So Wonderful.mp3
135 The Knives - The Lonely One.mp3
136 The Lucy Show - Miles Up In The Sky.mp3
137 The Nits - Port of Amsterdam.mp3
138 The Orchids - Lovechild.mp3
139 The Orchids - Obsession 1.mp3
140 The Orchids - Striving For The Lazy Perfection.mp3
141 The Play - Running Out Of Time.mp3
142 The Press Club - I'm Watching You.mp3
143 The Principle - Kimberley.mp3
144 The Promise - Away, Away (Adventure Mix).mp3
145 The Promise - Away, Away (Single).mp3
146 The Promise - Heart To Sell.mp3
147 The Psalms - A Story I Was Told.mp3
148 The Ride - Strip Me Naked.mp3
149 The Safe - Untrue Untrue.mp3
150 The Sun And The Moon - The Price Of Grain.mp3
151 The Talk - Out My Window.mp3
152 The Valley Forge - Escape.mp3
153 The Voices - I Wish It Wasn't True.mp3
154 The Waterfront - Be With You (Extended).mp3
155 The Window Speaks - In The Land Of Christobal (Extended).mp3
156 The Window Speaks - Invisible.mp3
157 Thomas Van Dyke - Japan May Never Be.mp3
158 Tirez Tirez - Set The Timer (Guitar Mix).mp3
159 Tirez Tirez - Set The Timer (Original).mp3
160 Tokyo - Paint It Black (Extended).mp3
161 Tomboy - ''Y'' (Dub).mp3
162 Tony Martin - Barriers (7'').mp3
163 Too Vacant - Faster.mp3
164 Turning Keys - See You Crying.mp3
165 Unit E - Don't Turn Away.mp3
166 Unit E - We Are Dancing.mp3
167 United State - Glass Knight (7'' Version).mp3
168 Untitled Red - Sunday Song.mp3
169 Veldt - Ghost Child.mp3
170 Vis-A-Vis - Another Time.mp3
171 Visions In Winter - The Calling.mp3
172 Viva Voce - Tender Life Came.mp3
173 Voices - Images.mp3
174 Watchers - The Shadow Knows.mp3
175 Wayne Sleep - Man To Man (Full Version).mp3
176 West End Dance Project - 92 In The Shade (7'').mp3
177 West Of Eden - I'll Follow You.mp3
178 White China - How I Wish (Instrumental Remix).mp3
179 Wildland - One For Unity (12'' Ext Mix).mp3
180 Wolff Tycoon - Just A Thought (Instr).mp3
181 X-checker - Like to get to know You.mp3
182 Yin Yang - My Life.mp3
183 You - Line Of Fire.mp3
184 YYZ - Talking To You.mp3
185 Zerra 1 - Rescue Me (Power Mix).mp3
Example below of one of the songs... just a random one from the list.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xs7o7aL-8bA
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Edit: Sorry didn't mean to hijack your thread Catfish... (I will go lurk in the corner again).... but warning, I lunge out when ya least expect it.
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Some of the deepest bass gets released out from her songs that you don't notice without a good system. Better than most pop music/rap/dance/hip-hop.... Gut wrenching beautiful bass... @Gefn
Dang I still miss my bachelor days car stereo system.... I was partially the reason that sound ordinances were passed in towns... I think I would take a pot shot at myself if I met my dopelerganger from the past.
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On a side note... I am still collecting 80s rarities.... Here is a list of my latest finds... and odds are nobody here has heard more than one or two of them. Don't get me wrong, I like popular stuff too, but I crave the rarities now days.
Edit: Sorry didn't mean to hijack your thread Catfish... (I will go lurk in the corner again).... but warning, I lunge out when ya least expect it.
No hijack at all, and thanks for the list. I usually like to throw some obscurity into the mix, i.e, Synergy, among others, but you've given me an excellent starting point to find some more of those hidden gems. Saw that one band was YYZ. I know there is a Rush cover band by that name. The same guys?
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Social Distortion - White Heat, White Light. White Trash (1996) ***
Several pages ago, I coined the phrase Van Halen Factor (VHF). That is or was bands that the listener was better off buying one of a few or several compliaton albums instead of any given one. Social Distrotion fits that bill. This is a great band, with incredible energy. From the persepctive of punk pioneers, they are very good mix of the two sides.... The humorous (Ramones) and the angry (Sex Pistols/Clash). I do love how Ness and his bad boys blend the head bouncing time frame of '70's punk with mosh pit mashers of his era.
When you see (watch some YT clips) and hear Ness and Co.,, you can tell that these are guys who aren't artificial, fake, or prententious in their trade. These guys seem to perform from their perspective of sorrow and anger with incredible emotion. Social Distortion also has nice streak of versatility that you normally don't see in modern punk rockers. In his repetiore you will find metal, ballads, country and straight up rock and roll. If there is one detraction to Social Distortion is that they recycle their riffs and meter way too much. I know plenty of punk bands do this, but the Ramones were the only ones who were able to intentionally pull that off as part of their persona and charm.
I have been wanting to review one of SD's albums for easily a year now. I think I changed my mind about 4 times, focusing on what I thought are their best 3. This one from '96, their last and swan song Hard Times and Nursery Rhymes from '11, and Self Titled in '90. Against my normal tendenices, I went with the one with the one song that i liked the best in their catalog. "I was Wrong". But be aware, and as I said at the onset, not every song is good, it has that incessant punk redundancy, and overt anger that sometmes overides the musical content.
Fun Fact: Number of songs to chart Top 50? Zero. This band did it skating under the radar. Good for them.
Track No.
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1. Dear Lover- SD starts the proceeding with a standard rocker that comes off kind of like something Kiss would do in the early '70's. Similar chord progressions, 4/4 drum tam bumps, but just add Mike Ness growls and anger. Good start. 5
2. Don't Drag Me Down- Some serious nice guitar work by Ness on this. Guy's really good on his Gibsons, and he uses two of the three of my favorites, SG's and Les Pauls. Not 100% sure, but I think this may be when he made the conversion. SG's have a bolder sound, but if you want fast and flashy?.... 4
3. Untitled- Unique song title that has that level of despair that characterize many of Ness' tunes. The riffs? Recycled, and not the first time. 10
4. I Was Wrong- The Crowned Jewel of the entire Social Distortion discography. I will go as far, as saying this song makes it in my top 10 rock songs of the entire 1990's. Every aspect in this song clicks perfectly and comes together like a charm. It does have the same structure of a lot of other SD tunes. But never have I heard a song that so well blended punk and hard rock. Heartfelt, personal, and emotions of a guy that has lived, learned, and experienced a hard life. His ability to translate that emotion to vinyl is incredible. If you don't feel this one (almost quoting Pedo Joe), you ain't a Rocker. 1
5. Through These Eye- Same emotion and power, but with a less effective musical vehicle. 6
6. Down On the World Again- Same metering and riffs, but with a little more ax shredding, and Ramones like tempo. Mike's one angry guy that is for sure. 7
7. When the Angels Sing- Even in its repetetiveness, 75% of the time, you can find some redeeming stuff. In SD's heavy edged world, this almost qualifies as a ballad. Ness' obesseion with prisons and prisoners has that Johnny Cash vibe to it. In kind of another fun fact, Ness actually does on another album Cash's "Ring of Fire"... And very well I might add. 3
8. Gotta Know the Rules - Has kind of a Judas Priest thrashish metal feel to it "Breaking the Law, Breaking the Law.!!!!" I really liked it. 2
9. Crown of Thorns- Seems Ness is running on empty on songwriting skills here. More anger, less effect. 11
10. Pleasure Seeker- See above. 10
11. Down Here (With the Rest of Us)- A little redemption from the previous 2. Innovative riffing, and drumming. Very disimilar from the rest of the album. It's like someone said to Ness..... You can't make a dozen songs on an album that sound all alike" 8
12. Under My Thumb- Silly remake of the Stones classic. Docked at least 3-4 rankings for dumbassery. 12
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CPZ7l7BZP0E (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CPZ7l7BZP0E)
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Wanted to say that there is a standing offer to anyone who would like to add Rock Album reviews.....
Love to hear some other's perspective. And there have to be some gems I am overlooking, or haven't gotten to yet. It's hard to try to do one a day or every other day.
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Wanted to say that there is a standing offer to anyone who would like to add Rock Album reviews.....
Love to hear some other's perspective. And there have to be some gems I am overlooking, or haven't gotten to yet. It's hard to try to do one a day or every other day.
@catfish1957
The Marshall Tucker Band.
Toy and Tommy Caldwell were as good as it gets if you like bluesy country music. This is the title track from one of their albums. I,personally don't think it's the best song on the album,but everybody has opinions.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-xKvkZnF1MY
This one is one of my favorite songs,period.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dlc6xCPx60U
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Silvertide- Show and Tell. (2004) *** 1/2
Thought I'd stop by briefly, and share a gem that asks the question, is this particular album the very last AOR album in rock history. This is now a hugely obscure band and album that fell off the map, not for the matter of talent, but they played stuff that was dated to the masses that had devolved into latter grunge, industrial, and nuevo punk. If these guys would have been born 30-40 years earlier, and produced this stuff, they'd be charting with the likes of Aerosmith, Van Halen, Boston, et. al.
They've got a really edgy slightly bluezy that almost almost harkens to somewhat of an Aerosmith sound, but still uniquely different. And the album is suprisingly consistently good. The sound has that nostalgically relicly good feel that makes many of us sad that stuff like this is a thing of the past. Of course and in the course of obscurity, no one knows or even has heard of anyone in this band, But there is a significant amount of competency on every instrument. And they capture what I feel is a real Humble Pie like instrumental like interplay that reall rocks. the solos hit home, the bass lines fill the product with that wall of sound that hit us like bricks in the '70's. Listening to this album is like a nostalgic trip, except these are people who were born in the mid 1980's I think many of you will be pleasantly surprised with today's addition.
Fun Fact: One studio album. Very sad, one and done, We used to see relic bands mimicking decades long gone by. (See the Stray Cats in the earl 1980's) The music industry has obviously lost any idea of that concept.
Track
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1. A'int Comin' Home- The hit, and deservedly so. This massively rocks, and is as good as anything we had in the 1970's . Has that massive Humble Pie feel, but honestly is as great as that band was, this is as good or better than anything they did. Perfect rock song, awesome chord progressions, blueszy voice, and excellent guitar solos. 1
2. Devil's Daughter- This one has more of a Honky Tonk Woman angle to it, It sounds nothing like the Stones, but does have that meter to it Good to medium on a song that is pretty damned conistent- 5
3. So F__king Crazy- Yeah, I know back in our era, the RIAA, and society in general wouldn't have allowed expletives like this, but for the matter of the song, this one more channels something like you would have heard more from Aerosmith back in the mid 1970's. I am not saying they are plagarizing sounds, but part of the problem of making a great album in 2004, is that there is something and everything to draw from previously. Reznor kind of hit on the matter a decade earlier with "Copy of A", Exceellent on its own merit IMO. 4
4. California Rain- Mabe the most unique to their own style. If I were to pick the most simiar sound, I'd have to go with some late 1960's Blue Cheer. Again when you post date rock to 2004, it is almost impossible not to sound like someone. Fine song. 3
5. Blue Jeans- This one has more of a 1990's Alice in Chains or Blind Melon Sound- Decent, but not great 8
6. Mary Jayne- Chaotic massively Aerosmithic like. Very good solo work. Joe Perry would be proud. Sleeper status on my list on this one. 2
7. Heartstrong- Are yoy kidding? Even by 2004, you;d think bands would skip the balladry stuff, unless they are Heart or other bands who do them right- 11
8. To See Where I Hide- Another one that kind of harkens to an Aerosmith sound, which much less success. 7
9. You Want it All- Another ballad. No thanks. 10
10. Nothing Stays- Is it me, but do I hear some Skynrd like sync patterned like phrasing and sound. Not exactly, and the sound of a band that I just can't put a finger on. 9
11. Foxhole J.C. - Innovative in that is mostly unique from the sounds of other tunes on the CD. The fluttering solos are a nice touch, and something I hadn't heard in decades. 6
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xRQ2ksiCVj4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xRQ2ksiCVj4)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band- Night Moves (1976) *** 1/2
Bob Seger and his band of upper Midwest journeymen had already had a very decent second tier of level sucess from the late 1960's to 1976, But that success was limited geographically to that area, and the band was relegated to sub-headliner status of their first 8 albums. In fact none of these charted in the Top 50 for the duration. Then somthing massively changed in 1976, where he and the band took their blue eyed Detroit soul and took on a more mainstream feel. I wouldn't insult it as AOR fodder, but it was certain that he had taken the liberty to broaden his appeal. He had made some serious lineup changes, and that blend of talent and chemistry, plus some songwriting prowess propelled him and his band to superstar status. The songwriting upped its game and focused on the more personal and societal aspects of the human condition. And the Rocket took off. Outside a very occasional cut like Rambling Gambling Man on Beaker Street, this band pretty much prior performed under the radar. Not a bad band, but one that sure wasn't one that was many's top 10 in the least.
I know of one Briefer here who claims Seger killled Disco. I am not really sure I agree fully with that , but I will grant that he helped. IMO Disco as a genre died to due oversaturation, a tired fad, and shit like songs like Disco Duck. The whole damned thing became a parody of itself by about 1978. The Song "Old Time Rock and Roll" from the next album "Stranger in Town" was a great anthem that rockers rang out, helping us sing with joy and give the finger to the demise of Disco. Of course the spectacle of Tom Cruise in his underware sullied the final legacy of that song.
To Seger's credit the consecutive trio of this album, Stranger, and Against the Wind (my favorite of his) were a juggernaunt of massively talented. This one reached No. 8, and was 6X platinum. His voice was incredibly unique, in that even with that level of gravelness, it came across as smooth and seemeless in the delivery. He had a great supporting cast too. The Muscle Shoals outfit, though, with the lack of a big name player, gave the band a fantastic foundation sound that as many of you know still dominates classic rock stations today.
Seger's best is Agaisnt the Wind, which I have previously discussed. No. 2, is bascally a tie between Night Moves and Stranger in Town. Both are great on their own merits. It was almost a coin flip, and for this exercise didn't even have the option to use the one with video access. The VEVO/YT Gestapo have a tight wrap on these two, so I won't be able to share the entire album. I will add what I feel are the best few singularly though.
Fun Fact: There was an 8 year drought for Seger charting top 20 singles between 1968 (Ramblin' Gamblin' Man') and 1976 (Night Moves). That is some determination, and persistence, especially in the Music Industry.
Side 1-
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Rock and Roll Never Forgets- Right out of the chute, you can tell that Seger has shed the Blue Eyed Soul Side, and the first endeavor shows a more histronic side of his music persona. Much more mainstream sounding, though no less rocking. 4
Night Moves- Very few songs of the era captured mind sight of life in 1970's better than this. Lyrically beautiful, and the absolute gold standard of power ballads. I am sure if you are older than 60 that this one hit a nerve. It did for me. 1
The Fire Down Below- Good song on a great album. More of like the soul infused stuff from prior times. 1970 redux. 9
Sunburst- More from the ballad-land part of his catalog at the start, but suddenly starts nicely rocking out. Love hearing that strat sounding echo like tap in the runs. 7
Side 2-
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Sunspot Baby- Blues with that nice rinky-tinky sound that morphs into a really nice "she done me wrong" standard rocker. 8
Mainstreet- Another excellent jab at Americana that Seger did so well on this album. He makes it feel like you are there with a nice wailing guitar that really isn't blues or rock. To me.... mid America Americana soundtrack 5
Come Too Poppa- Highly hooked, but absolutely what I feel is the sleeper on the LP. If this one doesn't get you moving, nothing will. 2
Ship of Fools- The band stretches their versatility legs and adds a C & W effort. And as good as almost anything else in that genre in that era. 6
Mary Lou- Sometimes it is forgotten that Seger was pretty elderly in Rock terms by the mid 1970's, and has some roots back to the late 1950's. No it isn't a rock-a-billy tune, but you sure can tell that Seger has some roots there and wanted to give props to that time. Good Stuff. 3
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QZ_kYEDZVno (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QZ_kYEDZVno)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xH7cSSKnkL4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xH7cSSKnkL4)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L-qpZeLhKSQ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L-qpZeLhKSQ)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PSELyI-WHkw (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PSELyI-WHkw)
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I was told by someone who claimed to have been from Michigan,and implied he was at least a casual friend of Seger,that he quit touring for a few years after he started having children so he could spend his time with them.
I have no idea if that is true or not,but I would like to think it was.
BTW,I was also told that he and Kid Rock were good friends.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Primus- Pork Soda (1993) *** 1/2
I am not too proud to admit when I am late to the party. There was a time in the late 1980's and early 1990's, that I considered bands like NIN and Primus as generators of nonsensical random noise. Doing these reviews the past few years has broadened my POV, around certain bands. Some of the bands don't sound as good as I remember, and then there are some that these that are fantastic that I had dismissed earlier. The two above mentioned are two prime examples of that , and giving these two bands a "first" listen is like openng presents on Christmas Morning.
Primus is a 3 member ensamble that are incredibly talented at each craft. Of course the band's crown jewel is front man and bassist (Les Claypool) , who takes innovation on the 4 string to stratsopheric heights. He does things on the bass that seem too defy human ability. Guitarist Larry Ledonde suffers from the same ailment as Alex Lifeson, in having a massive talent, but being overshadowed by a band mate(s) that are considered among the greatest of all time. The same with their initial drummer.
Putting a genre label on this band is almost impossible, but I'll give it a shot. (IMO) It is light variable mix of Zappa, Beefheart, Bizzaro-Jazz, Psychadaelia, and with a dash of funk. The music, lyrics, and everything else about this band is an "11" on the 10 point "Peculiar" scale. I can imagine that Primus has to be one of the GOATs too, among the 420 and Halluogen crowd. Claypools use of the odd time changes, jazzish improv, and wildly out of the blue strange lyrics and themes, makes him and his band a one of a kind. I can also see why his craziness was a fan favorite too, with the Moshers back in the late '80's/early 90's.
As far as picking one particular album, I do have to admit that I have not had the pleasure of hearing their entire collection yet. It does seem that their earlier stuff seems more comical, raw, and innovative. Though through the career mid point, it seems that every album thus far has something to offer. At least early on, i was kind of torn between this one, and the "Seas of Cheese" LP. And honestly it was pretty much a coin flip, and with both approaching 4 star status. BUT........ Like in the case with NIN, listening can be fatigue inducing, but for different reasons. NIN for the darkness and industrial metal overload. For Primus, I think it is more of a case that the human brain is more wired for at least some measure of hook, phrasic anticipation and melodic content. With Primus you are approaching cacaphonic dicourse, with a massive dosage of jazz like randomness. No less talented though... And saying their stuff is damned different, and unique is a massive understatement. If you are an old fogey like me, all I ask is that your leave your previous pre-concepts behind, and give this a band a listen with an open mind. I also strongly recommend pulling up Claypool's lyrics while listening. It adds to the listening experience.
Finally, I also love to bring up the fact that this band exhibits the ultmate of non-pretentiousness. They have never taken themselves serious, and the biggest compliment of all is when their fans yell "You Suck" at their shows. To me this adds to the charm and legend. Mosh on bubba!!!!!!!
Fun Fact: They are one of the most listened to acts on TV. You hear them every time Southpark comes on. (Theme Song and Closing Credits)
Track No.
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1. Pork Chop's Little Ditty- Just a short 20 second country hillbily like intro that sets the tone- :cool:
2. My Name is Mud- I might get an argument, but this is the most well known single song by the band. It's quite likely one of the most innovative works on the 4 string in Rock History. Claypool's ability to create a bass sound that simutaneously works as percussion is remarkable. And the lyrics? It's a song about a redneck who gets into a trivial spat with a city feller, and whacks him with a bat, and then has to dispose of his body. Standard stuff. :silly: 1
3. Welcome to This World- More bass wizardry that incoprorates the Southpark like guitar squirrelly like licks. Spectacular and bizzare. And I have no freakin' idea what Les is singing about on this one. Nonsenical on roids. 4
4. Bob- More of the same craziness, but repeitive phrasing that gives the impression of insanity. Theme is either suicide or auto-erootic asphyxiation. (I guess, and welcome any Primus fans to help me with interpreation) 9
5. DMV- Another musical clinic by the guys. And his hmmmm.. hmmmm.... homage to the DMV, that is hilarious. Compositon skils on this one? Easily a "9+" 3
6. The Ol' Diamondback Sturgeon (Fisherman's Chronicles, Part 3)- Maybe one of the most melodic numbers, but still very very strange. Clyapool's ability to make a classic around catching a fish is amazing. the highi infusion of some psychodelic slants was a nice touch too. 5
7. Nature Boy- More craziness, but from crazy spectacular musicanship too, this is some of the best on the album. 2
8.Wounded Knee- Multifaceted xylphoone piece that seems out of place, and needless. Album's darned good, but not perfect 13
9. Pork Soda- Not the best effort in the title track. Claypool taking the wierdness lyrically up a notch is a massive understatement. 9
10. The Pressman- Not sure how much is in the truth of the persona of Claypool, or just a editorial on writing. More of the Strange. 8
11. Mr. Krinkle- Seems this one is for sure from personal interaction with another musican. (According to Genius Lyrics) That being with Faith No More's Drummer, and their banter on the road. One of the few that actually make sense. How many of you remember Faith No More. 7
12. The Air is Gettimg Slippery- Sounds strangely like The Who's "Tommy's Holiday Camp" It also has a strange reference to Pink Floyd. Not a good addition, or any intent. Drug induced I guess. 12
13. Hamburger Train- Instrumental Jam that showcases their talents nicely- 6
14. Pork Chop's Little Ditty- See Track 1
15. Hail Santa- Basically sounds like Clapool tuning his bass, but bonus points for how it is presented. 10
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K8WGVYxG5Ng (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K8WGVYxG5Ng)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Buddy Holly- The Chirping Crickets (1957) ** 1/2
Today in the Rock Vocabulary is known as the Day That the Music Died. On this date in 1959, Buddy Holly, Richie Valens, and J.P Richardson died in a snowstorm induced plane crash in Northern Iowa. All three were charting acts who were seeding the trees of Rock and Roll. It has been a lot of debate of where Holly sat in the pantheon of Rock direction. I don't think there is any argument that Elvis had the most influence, but a strong case could be made for Holly as No.2. When you hear his stuff there is that 4/4 chordal structure and playing and feel that can be heard in early Beatles music. In fact the Beatles admitted their name was a name sake as a bug to Holly's Crickets.
There is nothing spectacular or elaborate in the content or presentation, and in fact, I am not 100% sure, but if Holly wrote 50% of his catalog, I'd be surprised. But what he did have was very very different from the rest of the rockabilly product in the late 1950's. It had that phrasing and style that basically redefined the decade change 1950's to 1960's.
It might surprise some that today's album was the only one of three studio album in Holly's career, and the only one that creditied the band, in name. Though they played in the latter two. I have no idea, but maybe it was for the same reason the Jordanaires were left off in Elvis-world. The front man persona thing I guess. And last, reviewing my parent's music and an album made the year I was born, am I really being fair or bias free. Probably not. I truly understand the histroric significance, but I just can't get past the dated sound of it. But,, I am sure there are plenty of Gen Z's who say the same about Zeppelin.
Fun Fact: And the least kept triva secret question of all time. For those who do not know Rock and Roll History: Country legend Waylon Jenning gave up his seat on that fated plane trip in 1959 to J.P. Richardson... "The Big Bopper". So not only was Rock highly impacted but so was the future of Outlaw Country.
Side 1-
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Oh Baby- Big hit for Holly, and nicely hooked, and guitar runs that were excellent for the time. 2
Not Fade Away- Very influential to a lot of the resurgence of '80's rockabilly acts. Synced in that .... "Whoooooo Do You Love" Stuff 3
You've Got Love- Standard sappy '50's balladry, not good, especially in Holly standards. 12
Maybe Baby- Nice piece that has that hollow sounding guitar that harkens to Surfer Rock that shows up in about 5 years. 4
It's Too Late- Chuck Willis remake from doo wop era, and done decently. Holly did nicely blending the rockabilly and R&B stuff, which in essence is a lot of how and what rock became into the early to mid '60's. 7
Tell Me How- Pretty much style par wise with Holly's other well known works, just a tad less better. Extra points for a bass solo though. 8
Side 2-
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That'll Be the Day- Holly's first and maybe most signature hit. You know the song has a legacy when the likes of Linda Rondstadt at her height does a cover. Solo, is some of the best in the late '50's outside a guy named Chuck. 1
I'm Looking For Someone too Love- So true to formula at the time! This one can't even be saved by a decent solo. 10
An Empty Cup- The Platters did this kind of stuff better. And Jim Reeves? Even Better Better . No Thank You. 11
Send Me Some Lovin' - Doowop like stuff, and not that great 9
Last Night- Doowop, but sang in a ballad style that is the better of this genre on the LP. Voice inflection is so genuine, that even my sarcastic angle saw it heartfelt. 5
Rock Me My Baby- Buddy does Elvis. No, not near as good, but not bad either. 6
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0dTdBUR62TA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0dTdBUR62TA)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Steppenwolf , Self Titled (1968) *** 1/2
As a mere lad, this was one of my favorite bands. They were one of the few bands at the time on this side of the Atlantic that were finding that hard rocking sound and footing that was seperating itself from the hard core hippy fluff. Steppenwolf made two good albums and then lingered like an obnoxious drunk at a party for 11 more ('69-'90). This is one of those bands that again is one of those that you are better off getting a complaition album, and especially the one "Gold" released in 1971. Pretty much everything released after 1971 was shit.
Steppenwolf is centered around the growling John Kay. His original lineup was solid, though none else ever became the household name he became. I am not sure what were the dynamics of the band, but Kay must have been hell to work with considering the lineup shifts. An incredible 26 different people have been a members of Steppenwolf.
This album is by far the best effort by the group, and the second one is decent. 3-13 are only good for frisbees. In the '70's I was duped twice buying an LP based on one decent single. This 1st album is a good listen, and worth the time. So don't be swayed in that respect.
Fun Fact: Sookie Sookie was relased as an "A" side of the 1st album, and "B" on Magic Carpet Ride off the Second LP. Shows how shallow their material became after their debut. And an event that I can't remember happening elsewhere.
Side 1-
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Sookie Sookie- Along with Born to Be Wild the single that introduced Steppenwolf. I really enjoy the '60's tunes that incorporate the Hammond in a way that augments guitar in 3rds. Great bass line too that makes this one of the stronger ones on the album.- 3
Everbody's Next One- Another strong one that incorporates some nice '60's typical hooks. Gives impressions of "Go Go Girls", but with some nice searing guitar solo runs. More good bass at conclusion for good measure. Surpising the guy didn't find employmnet after firing. - 5
Berry Rides Again- John Kay gives a rousing tribute to Chuck Berry, not only in name, but the style. Extra points for gumption and balls. Berry even in the '70's could grind an ax with the best of 'em.. 6
Hootchie Kootchie Man- Taking a cue from Zeppelin, Steppenwolf does an excellent Willie Dixon remake. Of course not as good as Page, but who did? A fine take on it, And again, infusing the Hammond just adds to the sweet flavor. 4
Born to Be Wild- Steppenwolf's signature song, and a cinematic staple when trying to the bad boy or for motorcycle imagery. This song was one bad ass add for the movie Easy Rider at the time. Anyone preparing a songlist on their device in the late 1960's tunes has to have this and Magic Carpet Ride in its content. Great great rock song. 1
Your Wall's Too High- IMO was trying to mimic Morrison on this one, with much less success than The Doors. 9
Side 2-
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Desperation- I often like to highlight what I consider an obscure sleeper on albums. This is the one on this LP. It's a sleepy bluezy balladry kind of song that nicely resonates. The added distort is an innovative curve that surprisingly works while all other band mates conribute nicely. Ending solo has a tad of the feel you might have sense in Gilmour's stuff during the same era. 2
The Pusher- This was a strange oddity... An anti- drug song in the middle of the psychaedelic era. And bizzarely from the same songwriter who wrote about Jeremiah the Bullfrog too.(Hoyt Axton/Three Dog Night) Psychedelic angling of the song, made it more of a novelty song. "Cause I seriously doubt this song influenced any drug users or junkies. 11
A Girl I Knew- Harpischord opening doesn't save what I feel is a Byrd's rip off. Docked accordingly. 8
Take What You Need- Didn't need filler.... that's all. 10
The Ostrich- The "Who Do You Love" Throughgood/Destroyers sound was more prevalent than i remember. 7
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UjNT_VB9AaU (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UjNT_VB9AaU)
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Re: Steppenwolf. I saw McKay on something several years ago. He looked really, really old. Watching this old guy sing Born to Be Wild cracked me up for some reason. :rolling: But his voice still sounded the same.
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RIP to the Patriot Toby Keith.
Yes, he was from the Country genre, but as in evidence of this tune, among others, he had a hell of streak of Rock and Roll in him.
(1) And making Donald Trump references in 2010?
(2) Tidal Wave Coming across the Mexican Border.
Some vision there.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zNDcAWNscg8 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zNDcAWNscg8)
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Re: Steppenwolf. I saw McKay on something several years ago. He looked really, really old. Watching this old guy sing Born to Be Wild cracked me up for some reason. :rolling: But his voice still sounded the same.
Yes, Kay, among a number of '60's and '70's acts have made a cottage industry of Casino gigs, playing to doozens (Not a typo)
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RIP to the Patriot Toby Keith.
Yes, he was from the Country genre, but as in evidence of this tune, among others, he had a hell of streak of Rock and Roll in him.
(1) And making Donald Trump references in 2010?
(2) Tidal Wave Coming across the Mexican Border.
Some vision there.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zNDcAWNscg8 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zNDcAWNscg8)
“Shoulda Been a Cowboy” is my favorite Toby song. He was a great storyteller. RIP
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Peanut tanks are for posers who only ride around town.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Judas Priest- British Steel (1980) ***
I like to brag that we Rush fans are among the most loyal and fervent on earth. Of course that point is debatable, and fans of today's band could also make a believable argument. Judas Priest is definitetly one of the GOATs of metal, but there are many things that might surprise the casual fan. Hard to believe, but these guys have been around since 1969, and except for a a brief hiatus (1992-1997) they have been a valid and solid band for 55 years consistently. In fact they have charted cuts as late as 2018, and have a 2024 relase in the works.
They also hail from Birmingham like Sabbath, and the time differental between the bands is only like 4 or 5 years. Priest however didn't release an album until 1974, meaning they did some hard times and heavy lifting in the trenches, before getting their break. But once they broke, they made at least 7 or 8 Metal Standards that are must adds for the Head Banging Metal Head crowd. Priest are crunching hard rockers that are somewhat of a mix of Rainbow, AC-DC, and Black Sabbath. Their vocalist Rob Halpert is hugely recognizable, and guys like Downing and Hill, though less recognizable grind away in 4/4 blastamania.
Due to timing, some neophytes haved errroneously placed this band in the '80's Hair Band Genre. Nope, this is a talented hard working outfit in the vein of Metallica, and not the nonsense garbage like Mootlley Crue (no typo) Cinderella, Quiet Riot, et. al. For me, by the time this band got big, I was out of my Sabbath metal phase of music tastes, but I sure would be amiss, not sharing what I think is their best work, and an album def. worth a listen. You might be surprised you might recognize a few of them. But in their heyday? It missed my timeframe.
Fun Fact: Priest didn't have a U.S. Top 10 LP/CD until their 17th out of 18 efforts. (Redeemer of Souls-2014 reached No. 6)
Side 1-
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Rapid Fire- Metal in full force. Standard head banging stuff that screams thrash metal, years and years before it was recognized as a genre,. Judas Priest had changed direction and had speeded up their wares from 70 to 150 bpm. Excellent solos. 5
Metal Gods- Self describing, though a tad prententious, even in an alegorical reference. Band slows it down a tad, and meter phrasing harkens more to their 70's style. Nice effect on the chain gang march. 6
Breaking the Law- Great metal song, and one of their staples. Everytime I see this I unfortuantely get visions of that Beavis and Butthead episode where they are digging it. Also a staple of the "bad boy" persona of metal heads. 2
Grinder- Lesser cut that doesn't breaks an new ground, and sounds too similar to. a 100 other mid Judas Priest songs- 9
United- Very nice anthem like song that has bits of melodic sections that makes United a top tier add. Driving Drum chorus blends nicely into some great strong major power chords. 3
Side 2-
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You Don't Have to be Old to Be Wise- Sounds a lot like mid to late 1970's AC/DC. Even the solos sound like Angus' 8
Living After Midnight- My favorite song by Judas Priest, and I think that sentment is shared by many others too. Maybe the greatest un-hooked, hooked song in their catalog. Damned Catchy, I'd say. :headbang: 1
The Rage- Wierd almost slow Primus sounding funk And after the adventerous starts, rocks very well, in almost Rainbow fashion, I liked it 4
Steeler- Album ends on a slash metal note that needlessly borrows Breaking the Law phrasing, with little or no other innovative additons. Solo is fast, but somewhat sloppy versus others in comparisoon 7
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CEBTrOKfZXc (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CEBTrOKfZXc)
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No hijack at all, and thanks for the list. I usually like to throw some obscurity into the mix, i.e, Synergy, among others, but you've given me an excellent starting point to find some more of those hidden gems. Saw that one band was YYZ. I know there is a Rush cover band by that name. The same guys?
Thanks Cat ! Not sure my 80s meshes up with most here, but it is what it is. I usually go to Steve Hoffman's forum to find like minded folks.
Your question I can't answer, for one, I just haven't devoted the time to know the artists like perhaps you would... Second, those songs were so rare, I doubt anyone but the artist would know. Most of the stuff costs a fortune on Discogs if you can find one for sale (and I didn't own them, I just lifted the songs in crappy 192kbs bitrate).
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I just lifted the songs in crappy 192kbs bitrate).
I have an I-Pod that I still use that has a pretty strong contribution from back in the Napster era. Quite a few I remember taking a half an hour on a 56K Modem. :cool:
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Go ahead. Try to just sit there and not move or sing while this is playing.
I dare ya!
I deleted this because the sound was horrible and out of synch
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Fun Fact: There was an 8 year drought for Seger charting top 20 singles between 1968 (Ramblin' Gamblin' Man') and 1976 (Night Moves). That is some determination, and persistence, especially in the Music Industry.
@catfish1957
Seeger thought it was more important to spend those years raising his children than touring.
After all,it ain't like he needed the money.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z2eTW8qZBtk
The Last Waltz
Sic 'em,Mavis!
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FTWH1Fdkjow
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Alice Cooper is interesting. We actually saw him perform at our local college music hall about 10 years ago. He put on a darn good show and though the audience was mostly our age, we did see some younger people enjoying his music. He has quite a dramatic stage presence. I notice the date of 1973 and it made me realize just how long he's been around.
I've seen several of those listed in concert; Stones, Clapton, Yes, The Who, Edgar Winter, J. Geils (as back up) and several times Elton John. I realize how very lucky I am to have experienced live their phenomenal talents that truly marked Rock 'n Roll history.
Thank you for the list. I'll certainly enjoy going through and listening to those that I didn't pay attention too. In particular, I had to look up Black Oak Arkansas. I am not familiar with their music. (I'm still working through the list).
Take a look at the video in the beginning and the line up of cars to get in to see them.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2tHtAV3uMRI
@libertybele
I was at that concert. You might have seen me,flapping my arms and hovering over the stage. Only got in one fight,and that wasn't really a fight because I couldn't catch the SOB. He was running down the line of cars lined up to park,slapping at people with open windows. When he slapped me,I went after him,but couldn't catch the little SOB. Probably best for both of us.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63XJAJUDC4c (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63XJAJUDC4c)
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Interesting how the drum kit is set up.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Captain Beyond- Self Titled- 1972- *
I'll start today's review with a riddle... What do you get when you mix certain elements of Deep Purple, Iron butterfly, and J. Winter's lineup? A pile of hot steamng poo. When I saw in my Circus Magazine that this new band was being formed from these 3 good bands, I was pretty excited and thought it might be pretty decent purchase. Well, I foolishly plopped down my $5.99 in '72 or '73, and was absoluely floored on how shitty this thing was. I was livid at the time, because $5.99 + tax at the time was a hell of a lot of money for this 15 year old kid in 1972.
As you probably are surmising so far, this was an ill coonceived noting that it should have never happened in the first place. I learned a valid lesson that what are likely outcasts from excellent groups doesn't necessarily translate to a good LP. I started noticing that wear on LP's on my records in my record collection are directly correlatable to how good they are. And this album people, was pristine. This also was the album I finally decided to make sure I got a good listen on KAAY's Beaker Street before future investments This band's stuff was not on Clyde Clifford's playlst.... and for good reason.
The band, the album, and for that matter the stylistic conceptual point was ill conceived. I hear shitty like James Gang licks, Pink Floyd insipid spacey imitations, second rate Purple Butterfly mishmashed metering and vocal pattern. It was really strange hearing it again 50+ years later for the second time. And it sure didn't seem any better. My best descripton? Aimless unprogressive prog. And even at times like a piss poor Skynrd cover band.
Fun Fact- I know there are some niche like fans of this band out there, but to me the fact that this group made 3 studios albums, just shows how low the bar was for record companies in the day. For Every Led Zep IV and Who's Next, there were 50 of these. I spent about 10 minutes googling whether any of these 3 charted, but after 10 minutes, I either came up empty, or honestly really didn't care.
Normally, I like reviewing good music. But for some reason I felt like venting, and this review is kind of my revenge, much like a highly pissed off Yelp Reviewer. For anyone who thought Asia was the worst conceived supergroup? Nope- Try this one. This is somthing alike if Don Henley, Trent Reznor, and Joey Ramone all collaborated. Begs asking why.
Side 1-
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Dancing Madly Backwards (On a Sea of Air)- One of the few listenable songs on the album. Some decent improv like jam. 1
Armworth- Filler
Myopic Void- Joe Walsh should have sued. Filler!!!!!
Mesmerization Eclipse- A tad better than filler. What a song would sound like if Purple and Skynrd had a baby. Don't laugh... I'm not. 3
Raging River of Fear- Phasing wise, maybe the most Butterfly sounding tune on the LP. 2
Side 2-
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Thousand Days of Yesterdays (Intro) - Prog side begins and is ultra filler-
Frozen Over- Nope. Most purple sounding contribution, but sucks. Blackmore had to be laughing his ass off.
Thousand Days of Yesterdays (Time Since Come and Gone)- Hush!! Hush!!! (literally)
I Can't Feel Nothin' (Part I)- I love it when song titles are sarcastically apt.
As the Moon Speaks (to the Waves of the Sea)- **nononono*. This one would make Spinal Tap cringe in parodic horror.
Astral Lady- I won't get that 16 seconds back.
As the Moon Speaks (Return)- When 7 song titles need parentheses, you get the idea, that even they knew further clairification was needed to explain this shit.
I Can't Feel Nothin' (Part 2)- I find the hilarity is epic when a song this bad requires two parts. :silly:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VR6MQgMdwCs (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VR6MQgMdwCs)
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In several reviews and discussions, you have probably heard me mention Beaker Street as a source of enjoyment and understandng of Rock Music back as far as the early 1970's. Beaker Street was a hIgh Power Radio Program broadcasted by KAAY in Little Rock, Arkansas. It was heard by the masses over much of North America, and provided a isolated group of rock lovers a portal to music you would not have heard elsewhere. For many of us, this was our only lifeline away from the standard C & W, and Pop music that dominated the air waves.
The program ran 11 PM to 1AM Central Time, which lead to Beaker Theatre at 1 AM to 2AM. Beaker Street played Underground Rock, and was punctuated between songs with a spacey, scarey sound effects. I later found out those soound effects were on purpose to mask the the soound of the transmitter, since the program was held stealthly away from KAAY studios.
I was introduced to so many great band in the day that way. It definitiely helped mold my musical tastes. Plus is was always a gas knowing about the best bands before anyone else. I had a great find yestrday. I had thought that these programs of the past were lost to the soundwaves of time. This brought back so memories. Enjoy.....
https://archive.org/details/KAAYBeakerStreetBeakerTheaterClydeClifford41371 (https://archive.org/details/KAAYBeakerStreetBeakerTheaterClydeClifford41371)
https://archive.org/search?query=beaker+street (https://archive.org/search?query=beaker+street)
Beaker Theatre was an archive of old serial radio programs that were broadcasted from the 1930's- 1950's. Learned to enjoy those too, as they were an art of their time too.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Mott The Hoople- Self Titled (1969) ***
It is funny how music morphs into into branches on a tree as the formula wears. By the late 1960's we were 3 years past Beatlemania, and Psychedelia had already about run its course. 1969 was a pivotal point year where the flower power schtick wilted. By now Zep was already on its second album. Bands like Sabbath and Purple were dialing up 11 on the amps, Southern Rock bands like Allman Bros., Skynrd, ZZ Top,and Black Oak were begininng to get popular too. Oh, and one more.... Glam Rock. Early progenitors of this genre inclued Bowie, T-Rex, Slade, Stooges, and today's review, Mott The Hoople.
Maybe because I was a southern red neck, this genre kind of creeped me out in the day. Men who wanted to look like women just didn't appeal. Why the f-- would a man want to perform in makeup. I was a huge fan of Alice Cooper in his day, but I chalked that up to theatrics. No one thought AC was a homo. And admittedly those predjudices precluded me from being interested in some music more than others. Pulling from the "Office Space" theme with Peter and Lawrence lamenting abut Mondays...... Saying you liked David Bowie's music might get your ass kicked. And even by my own standards, alot of late 1960's and 1970's Glam was shit. But in that conglomerate of fecal matter, the Rock and Roll Dung Beetle was able to pull out a few gems. 3 or 4 of Bowie's of course, and this one is a good example too.
Mott the Hople was a very competent band that had some decent versatility. They Rock, They Bluez, They Glam. They Boogie. The talent center of the band musically and songwriting focuses on Ian Hunter and Mick Ralphs. Admittedly, this album sounds very fresh, and something that doesn't seem to be produced in the 1960's. MTH's life on earth was pretty short, 7 studio albums in 5 years. After '74 Hunter and Ralph left the band, and subsequent work known as simply "Mott". Simply they were awful. That lack of longevity (gone by '74) is most likely the reason they haven't made it to the Hall of Fame. Considering some of the crap artists that are in, I'd say they are overdue.
It was an easy pick of which of their LP's to review. I liked '74's "The Hoople", but this one is a notch better, and with less filler.
Fun Fact: "Creedence Compliation Factor"? "9". 13 Compliation albums for 7 studio albums. Sheesh.
Side 1-
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You Really Got Me- It's hard to mess up this Kink's classic. Kind of like doing covers of "Wild Thing" and "Louie Louie". Three Chords..... OH YEAH!!!!! Kind of nice how they did this as an instrumental. 5
At the Crossroads- One point I failed to mention earlier, was Hunter's attempt, cognizant or not to sound just like Dylan. In any case, this Doug Sahm classic is done very tastefully and hits the mark nicely. 3
Laugh at Me- Bizarre take of this Sonny Bono effort that incorporates a Dylan "How Does it Feel" sound. This turd comes across as a Dylan cover of this thing. Filler. 8
Backsliding Fearlessly- Taking another page from the Dylan/Gordon Lightfoot like stylist playbook. Seems Hunter doesn't even want to hide that fact. Good song though. 6
Side 2-
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Rock and Roll Queen- Excellent rocker. And one of about three of their recognizable hits. This is the one on the LP that actually stretches the musical chops of the band. Some serious jamming at the end really punctuates how versatile this band against say, versus the rest of the album. 2
Rabbit Foot and Toby Time- Barrel House instrumental that is alright, but meh. 7
Half Moon. Ahhh...that sleeper that just blows you away. This gorgeous blue-ish number has that strong Dylan/Joe Cocker kind of vibe that just hits a home run. Hunter's intentional off key voicing exudes grit and emotion. You'd think the 10 minute length would wear, but they variate enough centerly enough to ebb and flow, cressendo and decressendo enough to me to keep it really interesting. . That crunching Hammond 2/3 the way through was ingenious. This song, though unheralded, was worth the price of admission. 1
Wrath and Wroll- Oddity. I guess band wanted to allow their Producer to provide a jam ditty for prosperity. Actually sounds a bit like the foundation of their future instrumental fare around their cover of Bowie's- All the Young Dude. Surprisingly good. 4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UIydQaDR1HM (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UIydQaDR1HM)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Led Zeppelin- Presence (1976) ***
Seems lately I have been covering a few albums that I have deemed dissapointments. Today's review includes one of from one of my all time favorite bands, Led Zeppelin. This bands is legendary, but it doesn't mean their discography was perfect. Here amidst the middle of the Disco fiasco, I thought this would be a welcome respite from that repetitive garbage. In the past, it was always my opinion that if there was a sure bet of a great buy at the music store, the newest Zep album would be the ticket. I know that when I had my first listen, I was pretty pissed. Slump, lazy, too experimental? I had no idea. I will admit though that the LP grew on me as the years passed. Kind of like parsing through chapters in a book that you are familar with, or putting together the puzzle.
In 1976, Zep was still the biggest band on earth, and in fact they had become so large, they operated their own record company. They were one of the few exceptions of being a band that had 100% artisitc and financial control of their product. And anyway, who was anyone to tell Jimmy Page what was or wasn't a bad idea. Which leads to what I find so offensive about the album. Yes, there are some rocking moments. but from the end product perspective, the songwriting, and least in the Page- Plant sphere of excellence was serious lacking. And second, the band wanted to, like many others at the time, to spread their wings of versatility and adherence to an Avante-Garde mindset. And if there is one conspicuous stylistic slant on Prescence is Page's intent for funk infusion. Sadly the boys failed to realize that the average Zep LP buyer at the time wanted the stuff 4-8 years made earlier. Granted, I will say some of the best tunes on the LP are in that vein. But one other check mark that you expect on one of their LP's is a great blues tune. Nope on that accoount, just rehash.
So, from my POV this is Led Zeppelin's most schizophrenic LP. Musicianship wise, it is and has that standared Zep greatness. But the songwriting is the weakest of any of their 8 issues. In the counter I will admit, and it just might be my ear, but this album contains some of the band's most crisp work. These facts alone make Prescence unique. I think most rock fans treasure this LP, because this is one of few bands that it is important to have the entire catalog. They were that great, influential, and innovative. But, this seems to be a late career lull for Zep, still there is no way I'd dispose oof it.
Fun Fact: Want to know how badly Prescence sold? 3M units... Next least? Led Zeppelin III at 6M.
Side1-
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Achilles Last Stand- This was the representive hard rocker on the LP that totally misses the mark. Page took his Kashnir like forbodance and repetition styling, but with 1/10 the effect. I had friends who loved this tune, but even with the admittance of some great musicianship by all 3 (JPJ- some especially great bass work), This one lumbers on for 10 minutes , and still 7 minutes wasted of vinyl time. I think Page intended for this to be a classic. Good, but not excellent. 4
For Your Life- First foray into funkiness. Song is pretty pedestrian early on, but by the mid point has a nice Page solo that augments well against the funk. Plant adds some rasp to give that added bit of soul. No doubt about it, Zeppelin had never made songs like this and some subequent ones that are coming up.- 3
Royal Orleans- The funk continues. Excellent licks , phrasing,and feel. I am not a drummer, though it is not as highlighted as much as other songs, some of Bonham's drummng contians some very difficult percussion rudiments that work off tangent of the rest of the song. Much more difficult than you realize, and just another example why almost every list has John Bonham in their top 5 of Rock Drumming GOATs. 2
Side 2-
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Nobody's Fault But Mine- The gem of the entire LP. This is the only one that blends the LP's Funk theme, with a hard rock edge, and really nails it well. Song starts with a magical and mystical slide fuzz riff. Plant adds an almost perfect echo pitch vocal with Pages runs, and then... all hell breaks loose. The phrasal sync is genious. And honestly at the song's midpoint , triple hell breaks out with each member going absolutely bonzo on a run of the ages. And as an added bonus, it has what I feel is Plant's greatest harmonica solo. All I can say is wow. I mean wow. 1
Candy Store Rock- Not one of Zep's greatest moments. In the barrel FX (sans Hats Off to Harper), though with a more like a blues-ish like Rock-a-billy style. There is nothing here that breaks new ground, or is worth a listen. Nothing Zep ever recorded is what I would call filler. But I will say is that this one would make a worst 5 in their full play list. 7
Hot On For Nowhere- More funkytown, and maybe just a tad better than Candy Store Rock. Page does have some pretty interesting blues soloing in it- 6
Tea For One- Maybe it's me, but the obligatory (though usually great) pure blues number sounds so close to "Since I Been Loving You" that you almost want to think Page got lazy and started plagerizing himself. Of course Page shreds it, but how about some better variation to the theme- 5
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tVADdyDFLXY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tVADdyDFLXY)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Bachman Turner Overdrive- Not Fragile- (1974) ***
Kind of surprised I haven't reviewed a BTO album thus far. Oversight I guess. BTO was a huge early to mid 1970's AOR hard rocking outfit that took the "hook" concept to stratsopheric levels. Band came from the turmoil and ashes of The Guess Who. Seems Randy Bachman and Burton Cumming's egos clashed just a few too many times. The tandem of (Randy) Bachman and Cummings were a really good song writing team, and the Guess Who were charting mainstays for much of the early '70's.
But then the inevitable happens when yoou have genre clash. The two wanted to take the group in very different directions. Cummings prefered a softer more mainstream approach, while Randy Bachman wanted to take the hard rock highway (pun-no charge). So Bachman hired his two brothers, Blair Thorton,and Fred Turner, a band mate from from Bachman's project "Brave Belt". The final result was a massively hooked hard, (almost metal) sound that to everyone's surprise eclipsed the ashes of The Guess Who, and sold massively in the mid 1970's. And if I remember correctly, I think BTO was the highest selling and charting Canadian act at that time. Even Neil Young.
BTO had a simple formula... 4 chords, crunching simple licks, and Turner's growl. At the time I loved it, much like Beavis/Butthead liked their bands at the time. Nothing complicated, nothing pretentious...... Just 100 db ear blasting hooking, and crunching, much like their name implies. The band only made 9 albums, and of those 9, only 3 are worth adding to your collection... II, Not Fragile, and Four Wheel Drive. For the purpose of doing this review, if I wanted to focus on the LP with the best couple of songs, I'd stuck with II. But as far as a consistent good product, Not Fragile is a notch better.
Fun Fact: Was kind of surprised none of BTO's studio albums reached platinum status on sales, considering how big they were in the day. And it is even more strange that this album reached No.1 on the charts, and still fell short of 1M. I guess most waited for the "Best of", as it did reach the 1M sales marker.
Side 1-
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Not Fragile- Hits you between eyes with a thundering bass and an almost metal like 3 measure repeat-a-thon melodic line, that as simple and inane that it is musically, still fills the need for that metal head in you. Not all music has to meet ELP, Rush, Pink Floyd virtuosity standards, and instead this is to degree just like and in the vein of AC/DC. 3
Rock Is My Life, and This Is My Song- Interesting and prophetic number on the philosphorica aspects and pitfalls of being in a rock and roll band. One thing that struck me, that I didn't realize before is that Randy Bachman's voice sometimes sounds a lot like Rand Newman's. Good standard rocker. 5
Roll On Down the Highway- Even though it was one band's hits off the album, outside aligning the song's theme down to their name, this less hooked (strange to say) is IMO, not one of the better cuts- 8
You A'int Seen Nothing Yet- The biggest hit on the album, and admittedly, I loved it too. Hell.. this song reached No.1 as a freaking single. Forget the grammatical, and the stuttering shtick too. This is hook magic at its magical best. Just proves the Wild Thing thing is a winner every few years. 1
Free Wheelin'- Instrumental that tries, repeat tries to highlight talent much in the intent of the old big band's trade turns in a gig. Nothing really interesting to hear here. Next- 9
Side 2-
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Sledgehammer- Bachman/Turner share the vocals in a nice almost hard rocking blues effort. Best duelng guitar parts on the LP. 4
Blue Moanin'- Blues in a more traditonal version. Not in their best area of expertise. Good try,but falls flat. 7
Second Hand- Mostly overlooked, but I really like how the band strayed just a tad enough to still hook enough, but have enough variability to create something more interesting than their standard fare. 4
Givin' All Away- Ouch, never thought I'd call one of the best songs of an album to a number that on half of the tune, the band intentinally sings off key. But, IMO this is the hidden gem on the on this LP. Love, how they prologue the with a stealthy "NOT FRAGILE" forceably spoken, just as a exclaimation point. The BTO was a fun ride. 2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JZzzYld_Ulw (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JZzzYld_Ulw)
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Classic rock song of the day for me...original video from 1978. Styx and Tommy Shaw are still rockin'!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=CDM6v1XhWEg
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Classic rock song of the day for me...original video from 1978. Styx and Tommy Shaw are still rockin'!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=CDM6v1XhWEg
@Timber Rattler
Was significantly into Styx in that 1976-1978 time frame, Equinox, Grand Illusion, and Pieces of Eight were easily some of the best American Prog/AOR at the time. In fact previously did reviews of these three LPs. Comments?
https://www.gopbriefingroom.com/index.php?topic=458127.820 (https://www.gopbriefingroom.com/index.php?topic=458127.820)
https://www.gopbriefingroom.com/index.php?topic=458127.649 (https://www.gopbriefingroom.com/index.php?topic=458127.649)
https://www.gopbriefingroom.com/index.php?topic=458127.1113 (https://www.gopbriefingroom.com/index.php?topic=458127.1113)
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@Timber Rattler
Was significantly into Styx in that 1976-1978 time frame, Equinox, Grand Illusion, and Pieces of Eight were easily some of the best American Prog/AOR at the time. In fact previously did reviews of these three LPs. Comments?
https://www.gopbriefingroom.com/index.php?topic=458127.820 (https://www.gopbriefingroom.com/index.php?topic=458127.820)
https://www.gopbriefingroom.com/index.php?topic=458127.649 (https://www.gopbriefingroom.com/index.php?topic=458127.649)
https://www.gopbriefingroom.com/index.php?topic=458127.1113 (https://www.gopbriefingroom.com/index.php?topic=458127.1113)
All are awesome! I love classic rock...it's what I listened to growing up in the 1970s and 1980s.
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I have always credited Bob Seeger with saving the world from Disco.
Sorry for the necropost but I just watched a documentary on this last weekend:
The 1979 riot that 'killed' disco
https://www.bbc.com/culture/article/20230922-the-night-angry-rock-fans-destroyed-disco-music
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fAJfOcnYYEQ (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fAJfOcnYYEQ)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Huey Lewis and the News- Sports (1986) *** 1/2
I know I haven't covered many what I would consider a commerical pop rock LP's through this process. 90% of them generally have one or two catchy hooked laden tunes, and aren't really worth the purchase price. Tonight's edition is an exception. Huey Lewis puts on a very entertaining show (saw them in '86 supporting this album), that decently follows the studio parameter, and in the case of this work.... terribly enjoyyable. As a career, his stuff was kind of uneven. Early early stuff, lacking a tad on the songwriting skills, and the latter, too much reliance on the pop aspects of the business, and coming across as trying too hard to impress AM radio crowd.
Huey Lewis, the front man has a really good soulfull voice that functions great as a fulcrum of attention. His band, and I say this with upmost respect are pretty much glorified session men. In fact, I challenge you to say by name, any player of any era of the group outside Lewis. With that and again with due respect collectively they do a good job, especially on this LP, by supporting the music product, hook and all.
And finally, more than anything, this group and album is just an enjoyable light listen that bares no need of over-analysis or over review. Just good fashioned mid 1980's fun.
Fun fact: As much as it fits the pop rock genre, it sure as hell was popular, and sold massively. Reached No. 1 as an LP. 4, YES 4 singles charted in the Top 10. A 5th charted in the Top 20. 7X platinum i.e. 7M sales. If you were around in '86, I will venture your have heard at least one from this. LP.
Side 1-
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The Heart of Rock and Roll- 1st of several hits on the LP. Ode to the institution of rock, that is kind of stale due to overplay. It's rock and soul themeing and style kind of sets the stage for the entire work. An old time rock and roll dance piece complete with sax infusion. 6
Heart and Soul- Better effort that has an airy standard rock root, that moves to chorus with an almost hard rock./metal interlude. That alone gives the song a pretty unique touch, especially one that is pop oriented- 4
Bad is Bad- Not a fan of Doo Wop. Not filler, but not my cup of tea. 8
I Want a New Drug- Rollicking fun stuff here folks. Nice,very catchy bass line that runs well with other instrumentation, esp. ax. Try to keep your foot from moving on this one. I dare you. 1
Side 2-
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Walking oon a Thin Line- One of the exceptions that takes the off ramp of pop. A really good rock song in any form, or era. This is about as close as you are going to move Lewis toward AOR than you are ever going to get. 3
Finally Found a Home- The sleeper and not one of the 5 or 9 hits on the album. Can't really put a finger on why or what makes it so great. Maybe it has the right cmbo of hook/musician blend that I dig. 2
If this is It- Massive hit, but I hated it. The blend of sappy crooning, and doo wop is why. Enuff said. 9
You Crack Me Up- Sped up rocker that has some pop licks and runs, catchy enough to just making interesting enough. 5
Honky Tonk Blues- Throw back 50's rockabilly number. Not my interest, but I do have to gives some props for authenticiy to the genre. 7
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IKeun3-ZheY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IKeun3-ZheY)
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That whole album just reminds me of better days. Thanks for reviewing it.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Bachman Turner Overdrive- Not Fragile- (1974) ***
Kind of surprised I haven't reviewed a BTO album thus far. Oversight I guess. BTO was a huge early to mid 1970's AOR hard rocking outfit that took the "hook" concept to stratsopheric levels. Band came from the turmoil and ashes of The Guess Who. Seems Randy Bachman and Burton Cumming's egos clashed just a few too many times. The tandem of (Randy) Bachman and Cummings were a really good song writing team, and the Guess Who were charting mainstays for much of the early '70's.
But then the inevitable happens when yoou have genre clash. The two wanted to take the group in very different directions. Cummings prefered a softer more mainstream approach, while Randy Bachman wanted to take the hard rock highway (pun-no charge). So Bachman hired his two brothers, Blair Thorton,and Fred Turner, a band mate from from Bachman's project "Brave Belt". The final result was a massively hooked hard, (almost metal) sound that to everyone's surprise eclipsed the ashes of The Guess Who, and sold massively in the mid 1970's. And if I remember correctly, I think BTO was the highest selling and charting Canadian act at that time. Even Neil Young.
BTO had a simple formula... 4 chords, crunching simple licks, and Turner's growl. At the time I loved it, much like Beavis/Butthead liked their bands at the time. Nothing complicated, nothing pretentious...... Just 100 db ear blasting hooking, and crunching, much like their name implies. The band only made 9 albums, and of those 9, only 3 are worth adding to your collection... II, Not Fragile, and Four Wheel Drive. For the purpose of doing this review, if I wanted to focus on the LP with the best couple of songs, I'd stuck with II. But as far as a consistent good product, Not Fragile is a notch better.
Fun Fact: Was kind of surprised none of BTO's studio albums reached platinum status on sales, considering how big they were in the day. And it is even more strange that this album reached No.1 on the charts, and still fell short of 1M. I guess most waited for the "Best of", as it did reach the 1M sales marker.
Side 1-
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Not Fragile- Hits you between eyes with a thundering bass and an almost metal like 3 measure repeat-a-thon melodic line, that as simple and inane that it is musically, still fills the need for that metal head in you. Not all music has to meet ELP, Rush, Pink Floyd virtuosity standards, and instead this is to degree just like and in the vein of AC/DC. 3
Rock Is My Life, and This Is My Song- Interesting and prophetic number on the philosphorica aspects and pitfalls of being in a rock and roll band. One thing that struck me, that I didn't realize before is that Randy Bachman's voice sometimes sounds a lot like Rand Newman's. Good standard rocker. 5
Roll On Down the Highway- Even though it was one band's hits off the album, outside aligning the song's theme down to their name, this less hooked (strange to say) is IMO, not one of the better cuts- 8
You A'int Seen Nothing Yet- The biggest hit on the album, and admittedly, I loved it too. Hell.. this song reached No.1 as a freaking single. Forget the grammatical, and the stuttering shtick too. This is hook magic at its magical best. Just proves the Wild Thing thing is a winner every few years. 1
Free Wheelin'- Instrumental that tries, repeat tries to highlight talent much in the intent of the old big band's trade turns in a gig. Nothing really interesting to hear here. Next- 9
Side 2-
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Sledgehammer- Bachman/Turner share the vocals in a nice almost hard rocking blues effort. Best duelng guitar parts on the LP. 4
Blue Moanin'- Blues in a more traditonal version. Not in their best area of expertise. Good try,but falls flat. 7
Second Hand- Mostly overlooked, but I really like how the band strayed just a tad enough to still hook enough, but have enough variability to create something more interesting than their standard fare. 4
Givin' All Away- Ouch, never thought I'd call one of the best songs of an album to a number that on half of the tune, the band intentinally sings off key. But, IMO this is the hidden gem on the on this LP. Love, how they prologue the with a stealthy "NOT FRAGILE" forceably spoken, just as a exclaimation point. The BTO was a fun ride. 2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JZzzYld_Ulw (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JZzzYld_Ulw)
Good album.
I always wonder how certain songs are picked to be played on the radio and others are not
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That whole album just reminds me of better days. Thanks for reviewing it.
Thank you @deb. This was an excellent upbeat party album. I also really give it props for being consistently good. Almost all the tunes on the LP are worth listening to too. When I saw them in concert in 1986, I was really surprised how good the show was versus expectation. Their use of studio or studio-like musicians actually works well, much like it did with Toto.
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Good album.
I always wonder how certain songs are picked to be played on the radio and others are not
Can't exactly remember where I read it, but generally it is a consensus between the band, producers, and record company execs. They don't always don't bat a 1.000 either. I can think of dozens of examples where I felt/thought the wrong songs were put on the '45's.
Also, there are other bands who don't have a level of consistency on quality, like Van Halen, who build their filler around the 2-3 expected hits.
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I love BTO Roll on down the highway @catfish1957 When I saw them Randy played the bridge on that song with a drumstick held at the fat end and not the nib (so his hand was the length of the stick away from the strings). He absolutely killed it.
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I love BTO Roll on down the highway @catfish1957 When I saw them Randy played the bridge on that song with a drumstick held at the fat end and not the nib (so his hand was the length of the stick away from the strings). He absolutely killed it.
@bigheadfred
Musical taste is so subjective, so I fully understand your sentiment. Just as I rank songs from my perspective, a 100 people would likely rank have a 100 different rankings. My reviews are just from my specific POV.
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@bigheadfred
Musical taste is so subjective, so I fully understand your sentiment. Just as I rank songs from my perspective, a 100 people would likely rank have a 100 different rankings. My reviews are just from my specific POV.
Yeah, I get that. When I saw BTO they opened for Molly Hatchet and played an extended set. A couple of songs into Molly Hatchet and I was ready to go. Love your reviews.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Rush- Farewell to Kings- (1977) *****
It was a well known fact that Rush really hit their professional turning point in '76 with 2112. It was a pivotal event not only allowing them artisitic control of their product, but it did two other things in cementing their path of being one of the all time greats. (1) Side 1 with the 20 minutes of epic storytelling and highlighting their spectacular musianship, and (2) Prior to 2112, the band toyed with certain aspects of Prog. Rush's early history is incredibly intreresting. 1st album was an effort to emulate Zeppelin, Fly by Night was mostly standard rocking, but with a step change in songwriting. Fly By Night had some nice success, and appeared to be propelling the band toward some level of success. But by album no. 3, the guys threw the dice with their foray into Caress of Steel, which is the most enigmatic album of their career. It was a head long cannon ball dive into Prog that was mostly a miss. It was great in some respects but was lost in functional coherency. From my POV, it was like they were imitiating their heros "Yes". Almost like creating a concept Prog album, but no one really thinking the thing trough in its entirety. I have seen more than one Rush Documentary that the band acknowledges that they were an eyelash away from being castigated to the ash heap after Caress. Of course 2112 changed that, which then led to today's even more pivitol moment and album for review: Farewell to Kings
Farewell to Kings was really turnng point where the rock and roll audience realized this was no longer just a really good band. It was a great one. As good as each of the 3 were on 2112, you can actually sense a step change in musicanship. A lot might have been due to the fact this was the first LP that there was no record company pressue to meet certain album sales expectations. This is also the first album that I realize that they seem to be keying off each other strengths and contributions in song. Much much less compartmetalized, and more of a fluid like symphony. Xanadu and Cygnus when compared to prior uber-prog efforts from Caress of Steel are so much more disciplined and aesthetically tangible to the ear. And it was just as good as anything Yes was doing prog-wise at the time. And one last observation on why this album seems to considered such a step change. I have been a fan since the first album when I heard Finding My Way on Beaker Street, and after this and Fly By Night, I thought that these guys were pretty good, but virtuosos? Not really. But by Farewell to Kings, you come to realization that all 3 of these guys are special on each of their trade,and are on a whole different plane And by 4 or 5 more 5 star albums, their legacy was cemented in place. Check rock polls. Peart is GOAT in a majority of them. Geddy is the top 3 of most. Lifeson? Personally IMO....Top 20 status. Almost no where else in rock history will you see this level of competence. Their retirement in 2015, and Peart's death in 2020, were sad moments for me. Still their music lives on. 500 years from now, I am guessing only a few dozen bands will be remembered for posterity. This one wlll be one of those.
As far as Farewell to Kings, its strengths are in the prog efforts, though most of the standard rock stuff is top notch too. As far as its rank for me in the entire Rush catalog, I'd rank in about 7th. 7th? Yes, this album is that great. OTOH...The album's inclusion of Cinderella Man and Madrigal is just a slight tad "less good" than the lower tier of the 6 that I think are better.
Fun Fact: Think this album was influential and loved by other musicans/bands? In 2021, the great band Primus did a "Tribute to Kings" tour, where they dedicated one of their entire two sets by playing this album in its entirety. Wow.
Side 1-
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Farewell to Kings- Beautiful acoustical intro that rocks nicely into another classic Rush number. Lee especially shines in some very tough bass runs that does such a fine job of being nicely subtle without walking over Liefson's great stuff. A lot of majestic power chording too that acentuates how strong the tune is. 4
Xanadu- First let me share an anecdotal addtion which kind of skews my opinion of this song. When I bought this album in '77, my college roomate played this song over and over and over so many times, it almost drove me mad. For several years after, I almost could not stand listening to it due to the fatigue. It when heard it seemed almost like torture. But with that, and 4 decades to heal? I can appreciate its monumental status in Rush lore. Besides Peart's beautiful lyrical ode to Samuel Taylor Coleridge's poem, the song has two massively impressive aspects that fall into two distinctly amazing efforts. (1) Peart's absolute masterful clinic on percussion. (2) Lee/Lifeson dueling doublenecks in a mind blowing display of alternating melodic and back up augmentive ax play. Jaw dropping. 2
Side 2-
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Closer to the Heart- You might be able to correct me, but I think this might be the 1st album Rush used synth in their repetiore. It is the most traditional like rock song on the LP, and the finest. Such pointed and talented lyrics, great chord progression, and such fantastic understated drums that in some cases unnnoticed on Rush's level, but really tough to replicate to those practioners who try to cover. Great great Rush song that is on 100% of true fan's play lists- 1
Cinderella Man- Melodic ballad that is really good. This might be the best song on another band's album- 5
Madrigal- Very unRush iike soft ballad, that includes some nice Lee synth interplay with Lifeson's soft interludes. 6
Cygnus X-1 Book 1: The Voyage.- 4 part space like prog treasure. It does not have the same slap and charm of 2112, but this is a fanastic extension of the theme. More instrumental, and pulls from Lamneth artistic pool. Also does have that 2112 chaotic feel too. Don't get the idea that Peart/Lifeson/Lee plagarized from earlier work. This is a massively unique piece of work. Peart is a great story teller with his lyrics, and I am not going to go into any detail of the storyline. If you are unfamilar with the song, you might want to read the lyrics while listening. Also the Lifeson strumming simple chords singularly, just might be the oddest ending of any Rush tune. 3
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_3ca8ZXjlv8 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_3ca8ZXjlv8)
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Too bad I coouldn't find a quality film of the Primus' tribute, but thank goodness there's always one in every crowd who sacrifices their concert experience to highlight their I-phone filming skills. This at least gives you an idea.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3VQAqVFUeV0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3VQAqVFUeV0)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- The Police- Zenyatta Mondatta- (1980) ** 1/2
With apologies to the Talking Heads, who were by defacto critical and fan based adoration considered the "best in genre" my interest around New Wave bands was mostly limited to "The Cars", and to a lesser degree "The Police". New Wave from my POV, was really only melodic Punk. And in the late '70's and early '80's, the airwaves, and with MTV's help, this stuff flooded the market. In included an infestation of UK Wuss Bands. Remember Flock of Seagulls? There were at least 50 that looked and sounded just as stupid. Honestly, the early 1980's were a pretty shitty timef rame for rock music.
For the 10% that was listenable, I did enjoy the works of "The Cars", and today's Band "The Police". Where the Cars used finely succinct hooks with reall catchy synth, plus almost dance worthy stuff. You could bounce around nicely with your oxford shirt, skinny tie, and sun glasses. OTOH, the Police had a bit more complexity in the songwriting, and you could see at least 70% of it with variable added reggae infusion. The tone of The Police music also is much less upeat, with kind of an angry sarcastic tone.
Sting, Summers, and Copeland are of course, very well known as very talented musicians. In fact I would challenge that dollar for dollar, they are the best in genre. Where they do suffer, is in the songwriting aspects. Every Police album they made, could be expected to yield 2 or 3 excellent tunes, but the balance? They suffer from the "Van Halen Filler Factor". That is why I can not credibly give any one album more than a couple of stars.
Choosing today's review was between this work and "Ghost in the Machine". I like the sinister tone of Ghost, but ZM, was just a tiny bit more consistent.. And by 1983 (Ghost), Sting seemed to start buying into his own ego and adulation as international superstar. A real ass hole. Many equate the success of the band to Sting, but the talent pool was a heck more equitable as far as I was concerned. But is no secret that Sting's ego is why the band only lasted 5 Studio albums. He just couldn't wait to become a solo artist, and hog 100% of the spot light. But my best advise... Stick with a compliation,.... specifically the "Singles" edition from 1986.
Fun Fact: 75M sales worldwide. Props to them for getting that kind of mileage out of just 5 studio LPs.
Side 1-
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Don't Stand So Close to Me- Very neat reggae off beated underlined with deep synth, that morphs into a pyramiding phrasic chorus. Subject matter that might not be acceptable now in the musical venacular. Male adult teachers bing tempted by high school co-eds kind of gets frowned upon nowadays. Catchy stuff though, and the best on the LP. 1
Driven to Tears- Uber-repetive bass line and woke too. Some nice Copeland guitar included that gives it some redemption- 5
When the World Is Running Down, You Make the Best of What's Still Around- A sure long title to describe filler. Lazy songwritng, as far as I am concerned. And honestly, Sting is over rated as Bass player. 8
Canary in a Coal Mine- Silly off-key ska'. This tune would have killed the canary- 10
Voices Inside My Head- Band kind of takes it into a semi-funk direction. Lead singing comes off as backgroud, which is pretty unique concept. In the vein of voices in their head I guess. Dropping Sting's vocals a couple of dozen decibles was a nice respite too. 3
Bombs Away- Nonsenical tune, that does have a decent hook to save it. Summers does have a decent solo. 4
Side 2-
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De Do Do Do, De Da Da Da- Seinfeldish theming, before the sitcom. This has some of the best reggae-ish licks and actual musical cohesion. 2
Behind My Camel- Sounds like a mashup of a horror film and elevator music from Istanbul. Pointless instrumetal filler- 9
Main In a Suitcase- Should have been called a Canary in a Suitcase. Songs are so drasatically alike. Before anyone tries to claim the greatness of the Police, they really need listen to the whole package- 6
Shadows in the Rain- **nononono*. Man, this sucks. 11
The Other Way of Stopping- More filler, but does have some nice Copeland percussion 7
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1uKeeRdQlEA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1uKeeRdQlEA)
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tDm74sLw2fM
IMNSHO,Mavis Stapes was something truly special in this world. I am always surprised when he starts clapping her hands and getting up on her toes to hit those high notes that she doesn't levitate.
I would have HAPPILY paid cash money to attend a church service with "Pops" doing the preaching,and then leading his girls in the gospel singing.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- The Beatles- Magical Mystery Tour (1967) *****
This week I watched the Movie, Yesterday. The flick without much of a spoiler alert was a cinematic approximation of what the world would be like today, if the Beatles hadn't existed. The plot of the movie is the world has had some kind of dimensional blip, and a struggling singer/songwriter wakes up and finds that the Beatles, and a few other examples were things that never existed. After the shock, he recreates the songs from memory, and exploits it to his benefit. I'll leave it at that, but the thought itself, kind of gave me an inspiration to complete a review to augment their significant transition to this new phase of their historic musical career. It is crazy thinking how music would be different today, if the Beatles hadn't existed.
1967 was an amazing year for the Fab 4. Never had a group had a duo of two albums of the quality and impact ever been made in rock before or since. Sargent Peppers and this LP basically realigned rock in the space of 6 months. Rock had been transformed from Floppy Hair Beatlemania into Psychedelia almost instantly. Rubber Soul gave a slight taste, but these two iced it, Because, like none other, the Beatles were not only impactuful, but they invented counterculture, Psychedelia, and basically redefined music of the era at their whim. These 2, like their earlier phases unleashed tsunamis of copy cats and a few others who masterfully furthered the genre.
Now for the hard part of the equation. Which was better? I actually could give a different answer in any given day. Style wise, they are pretty much interchangable. The fact that these two albums were concieved, written, recorded in a matter of 6 months is utterly mind boggling. Never has any music act ever been "in the zone" than these four guys. Many years ago, I burnt a CD of these two in tandem, for road trips. They are so loved, because The Beatles are the epitome of "The No Filler Zone". Admitedly, there are a couple latter songs at the end that might be considered somewhat weak, these guys nailed it 98% of the time. Like on this album, not only is there no filler, there are no weaknesses. One thing about this group. When i do these reviews, i enjoy a few zingers at the expense of band's product when they deserve it. The Beatles are unique in that is impossible to give any negative feedback. No one was as good at songwriting as them. No one even came close.
Of course I'd be amiss not mentioning that this is a psuedo-soundtrack to the incredible and incredibly bizarre movie by the same name. Any doubt around the band's dabbling with Hallucinogens were pretty much put to rest.
Fun Fact: The BBC banned "I am the Walrus" for the line in the lyric..... "you been a naughty girl you let your knickers down"
Side 1-
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Magical Mystery Tour- Desn't get much better. Throw the Title song in the mix at the onset, and tease the concept. Fantastic tune that uses an almost echo or bottom barrelled chorus. Takes twists and turns that highlight their mastery. 2
Fool on the Hill- A McCartney slanted number that has all his fine melodic exellence. An near child like nonsenical theme that has strangeness as it's delivery hits the mark as well as Paul's dozens and dozen of other classics. 8
Flying- Very unique Beatles song that outside a few "La La La"'s this is one of their rare instrumentals.. Also groundbreaking in some early keyboard wizardry, including Melotron. 7
Blue Jay Way- If you look at a per capita, pound per pound basis, George might have had the most songwriting talent in the band. Think aboout it.... he had the most successful solo career of the 4 in my opinion. But..... of his catalog this is not even in his Top 10. 9
Your Mother Should Know- Pleasant and airy, and the weakest of an absolutely great album- 11
I am the Walrus- Utterly Nonsensical, maybe the most famous of that variety in music. Fantastic use of not only lyrics but how the song ebbs and flows through meter changes and FX, and strings.... This song is well deserving of its status as a classic. Extra Fun Fact: Eric Burden (of the Animals) was the Egg Man, for what was found was for pretty scandalous reasons- 1
Side 2-
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Hello Goodbye- The most traditional sounding fare on this uber-wierd trip. 10+ on a scale of ten for pop sensibilities. Listen to Ringo's drumming. For someone who often was derided for his lack of technical skills, this is pretty good on a 1967 kit. 4
Strawberry Fields Forever- Another massive classic. You sure can notice the LSD kicking in. The bending and musical half step slurriing, is a poster child of psychedelia technique. The buzz like cello thrown, and other random musical add just adds to the equation- 3
Penny Lane- Much like on Hello Goodbye, this is a pop centric song. The Beatles were geniuses in the fact that they gave all their audiences what they wanted. You have pop, you have innovation, and you have what they added to establish new musical trends. 6
Baby You are a Rich Man- Doesn't it seem every song is a massive classic? Their incorporation of strange and alternative instrumentation just kills it. The Beatles were the gods of the trade that even while keeping the experimental hamster cage rolling, they were still cranking out hits and classics. 7
All You Need is Love- Almost as famous as this song, was the lineup who helped with the song and especially chorus. Hit after hit. This song almost single handed started the Peace and Love Hippy schtick. 5
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5fG8mwE83U0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5fG8mwE83U0)
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Les Claypool has stated that he was tripping on Halluocegens when he did this gig back in '92 How plausible is that?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fMwgMrQxYbI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fMwgMrQxYbI)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Bad Company- Self Titled (1974) *** 1/2
I have on several occasions discussed the negative aspects and pitfalls of creating of Super Groups. The Rock and Roll landscape is ridden with terrible examples of how these fail, and mostly for reasons of chemistry. For the first half of their existence Bad Company was definitely an exception. For those who aren't versed in that era, the band was composed 50% of Free, 25% Mott the Hoople, and 25% King Crimson. At first glance, you'd think this mish mash of a rocking blues act, another as a glam group, and another from Prog would be an absurd mix that was destined for failure. But, this strange mix ended up making 6 decent to very good albums from '74-'82. I have to hand it to Jimmy Page. This was the first band he signed for Zeppelin's new label. So, he sure saw somethng good out of this strange genre bending marriage. That eye was so good that this album reached No.1 and was 5X Platinum. 5M that far back was huge in the area of sales.
Of the 6 albums that were passable, the choice for my favorite to review was obvious. This is a solid consisent album that is pretty much listenable for most tracks. The subsequent album "Straight Shooter" is worth buying too. But if you need to pick one... this is it.
Earlier, I mentioned the element of chemistry that dooms a lot of pre-formed super groups. No problem here. And you can parse the versatility in the content and conributions. But, what made them such a success was vocalist Paul Rodgers. This guy has an incredible voice that fills each genre and style. He is among the best in range and power. Rodgers is wildly under-rated and under appreciated in rock history. He is as great with this mix with Bad Company, as he was gutting out great bluez rocking tunes with Free, and the perfect gel accompanying Page's project and guitar wiz stuff with "the Firm." Ralphs too really operated under the radar with Mott the Hoople, and excels with Rodgers as a songwriting team. And added props too, for Kirke offering an almost Entwistle like presence. Listen just to Movin' On for the bass parts. There were no slouch's at King Crimson. Case closed.
Fun Fact: 4 of the first 5 of Bad Company's albums charted in the Top 10.
Side 1-
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Can't Get Enough of Your Love- Standard AOR rocking fare that does a nice job introducing the band. Song is well positioned and constructed to showcase every band member's contributiions and talents. Seem almost on purpose. Was the band's biggest hit too. Charting @ No.5. 3
Rock Steady- Well fused as a 50/50 rock blues attempt. Ralph's sure seem to improve his blues chops, exceeding any of his efforts at Mott- 6
Ready For Love- Bluezy balladry, that though not awful. is one of the weakest cut on the LP. 7
Don't Let Me Down- Another blues ballad, but this is the awesome flip side and sleeper. Soul-ish tinge is very risky, and many bands fall flat on their face missing the mark. Every aspect aspect of contributions are here, from sax solo, great harmonies, and on and on. Can I get an Amen, brothers and sisters? 4
Side 2-
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Bad Company- With the exception of Alice Cooper, I can't remember many if, any bands doing rock ballads around the old west. Rodgers does very well mixing the tension of the theme while working a nice rock line that makes this tune work well on every angle. 5
The Way I Choose- Crooning blues ballad that is the closest point on the LP that I would call filler. 8
Movin' On- Excellent AOR effort with the right mix of hook, style, and improv feel to be a top notch effort. Kirke's bass work here is some of the best he did at Bad Company. 2
Seagull- Might be a shock to you that I am calling this the gold standard seal of approval for a supposed hard roock/blues album. Seagull is a perfect effort by Rodgers grasping the singer/songwriter brass ring and outdoing the likes of Lightfoot, Fogleberg, Young, etc. Song is sung so perfectly, and soulfully. And sadly,Bad Company was never able to recreate this magic the rest of their career- 1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rClS2ANayh8 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rClS2ANayh8)
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Paul Rodgers is the bomb.
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Paul Rodgers is the bomb.
Yes one of the great, and almost forgotten singers of the era.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Buffalo Springfield- Again (1967). *** 1/2
Wanted to kind of stay with the "Supergroup" concept a tad longer. And back in the late '60's there existed a "click" of folksy rocking mostly American groups and soloist who made a lot of music and sold a lot of records. Giving birth to the Singer/Songwriter genre. Several bands, inluding The Byrds, Crosby Stills, and Nash, Neil Young/Crazy Horse, Poco, Eagles, Loggins and Messina, and others, had roots or association with Buffalo Springfield.
The band only made 3 albums, but it was a nice run. The true creative center of the group of course was arund the tandem of Neil Young and Stephen Stills. Incredible talent in just those two alone. The guitar talent between the two is impressive too. But in the grand scheme of the world of singer/songwriting fellowship, itchy feet has always been the boon/curse. They tend to be a pretentious lot, and the spot light and egos are always and ever evident for friction. That is why with a few exceptions, these groups that equity and ego is evident here. That equal concept is stark in that in "Again" there a 4 Stills songs, 3 by Young, and 3 by Richie Furay. I have a strong suspicion that that "evenness" was not an accident.
Not many choices for a Soringfield review,as they only made 3 LP's. And between the 3, it was really a choice of the first 2. Their debut contains their best and most iconic song "For What It's Worth", which is one of the staples of any 1960's mix. I personally liked the second album better due to Neil Young's increased contributions. What is also evident is the 3 worst songs on the album were Furay's additons. Middle 4 by Stills, and the best 3 by Young. Needless to say this might have been a 4 star or better if they had left the songwriting just to Young and Stills. And strangly Young's (And maybe Still's Buebird) 3 are the best. Talk about a tiered album.
I mentioned earlier of the nature of ego problems, and this album famously is a poster child of that concept. After making the intiial recording, each artist, over the next nine months did their own production, and the end product pieced together at the end. Chaos. By last and final album, they pretty much mailed in, just to meet contractual obligations, and the has plenty of filler. With all this drama, I am shocked that Neil Young joined C,S&N for an album a few years later. I guess not too many grudges persisted.
Fun Fact: Neil Young's band prior to Buffalo Springfield was called "The Mynah Birds". They never released an LP, but one of Young's band mates was Rick James.... Yes.... that Rick James of Funk Fame.
Side 1-
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Mr. Soul- Hardest rocking tune on the LP. Heavy, and almost psychedelic tinged fast, upbeat, and rocking. Young obviously has been given more latitutde with this one and subsequent. He definitely has eclipsed Mr. Byrd, and I can imagine Stills didn't like that at all. Contains some of the albums best dueling guitar work. 3
A Child's Claim to Fame- Never seen such a contrast in songs, one to another. From Mr. Soul's acid rock barrage, to what seems to be a "keep a straight face" standard Country and Western" number. In C & W terms, it is not that bad, but I seriously doubt many there were many Buck Owens fans buying this album. 9
Everydays- Hodgepodged genreically. And not that good at any of them. Still's weakest contribution. 7
Expecting to Fly- Celestial like, and done masterfully. Young's first foray into enigmatic singer songwriting that would propel later into his huge solo career. If this hadn't been recoorded, I seriously doubt Harverst, and Heart of Gold would have ever been realized 2
Buebird- By far Still's best contribution. Has that true 1960's vibe, and outside "For What It's Worth", maybe his most long lasting contribution. Great guitar work from Young and Stills. This one is about the only one that seems like a collaboration, instead of 3 songwriters working in a vacuum. Stephen Stills could absolutely shred an accoustic guitar. 4
Side 2-
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Hung Outside Down- Decent, but not great rocker 6
Sad Memory- Sappy and pointless garbage. Remember the scene in Animal House when Blutarski smashes the guitar on the stairs? You get the picture. Richie should have left the songwriting to the big boys. 10
Good Time Boy- Now Furay does his best Mitch Ryder impression. the fact this is his best on the LP, is sad... really sad. 8
Rock and Roll Woman- I like this one, but the unevenness of it hinders the sound. The hard forced but effective chorus is a nice touch. 5
Broken Arrow- Masterful songwriting by Neil Young. My favorite of his pre- solo career. Great story telling. Great musical creation. His unique phrasing cutting in and out of 4/4 to 3/4 is amazing. Young starts the song with a redux of Mr. Soul, then takes the listener into a tour of the random and off beat, with Indian imagery. A theme he would use many times and effectively. This song is another cornerstone of the enigmatic and unpredictable career of Young. 1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lXJrepuv-Ec (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lXJrepuv-Ec)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Nine Inch Nails- Broken (1992) ****
Technically this is an EP, but since it totals 30 minutes, it is as long as many other "LP"'s, so I think it is worth the merit and attention to cover it under its own merit. This album, plus "Pretty Hate Machine, and "Downward Sprial". Make up the golden age of NIN. This one in particular is much more metal and heavier than anything else Reznor ever made. I do have to admit that I wasn't into this band when they first made it big 30+ years, but after doing some reviews, my opinion of NIN has i,proved a 1000%. What I first heard as random noise, I now see as genius. Want proof, check out some of their live shows on YT, and realize the emotion, the intensity, the clarity, and precison,the complexity, and that the consitency is incredible. What is really evident in the first 3 works of Reznor, is that the man is in a dark area in his mind. His ability to explain and transfer that anger and dispair to vinyl is remarkable. Calling this album,explicit is a massive understatement.
Again, this so much different than the debut, which in some parts came across as an angry heavier version of Depeche Mode. This one takes the Industrial Metal petal to "11". Pretty Hate was kind of intro to an angle of work by Reznor with homage to the electronic/synth realm. The songs were more loosely conceptuaized, but still had the pop to hit you across the face like a 2 X4. For the next two Trent really took more of themed approach. "Broken" goes full bore metal mash scooping up the mindset of anger and violence. Downward Sprial, OTOH, of course is a masterpiece of documenting unraveling despair in excruciating detail.
Broken is a very strong and consitent work. One area I think was odd, was that the last two songs on the EP were covers. One is so so, and the second is basically two songs in one, and the latter really good. The other 5 (I count Pinion and Wish as one song), are all excellent. If there was one intent by Reznor, is that he was probably pissed by the critics assertion that NIN was a heavy psychotic version of Depeche Mode. Because Reznor sure (over) compensated. I might dare to say that this is heavier at face value than Black Sabbath. Thre are other uber-heavy industrial bands like Germany's Rammstein. Rammstein might take that "heavy industrial" concept even further. But comparing Rammstein to NIN, is a non starter, and downright silly. No comparison.
Fun Fact: To get a wild idea of Trent Reznor's warped sense of humor. After NIN won a grammy for "Wish", this is what he said he wanted this epitaph on his tombstone: " Died. Said 'fist f__k' and won a Grammy."
Track No.
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1/2- Pinion, Wish- I have personally combined these two because they outstandingly augment each other into one ultimate bombastic masterpiece. Additionally, I really like when Reznor adds Pinion as the opening FX in their live shows. It is an ominous electronic scaling and buiding exercise into forbodance. And Wish? Yeah, it won a Grammy, and one time the organization got it right. Easily one of the best 3 or 4 that they ever did. 1
3- Last- Another that is dropped on you like a ton of bricks- Almost comes across as straight heavy metal. Deep and dark lyricism, and violent. Seems to have his earliest references to pigs, which I have yet to figure what the alegorical meaning is. Excellent work. By song 3, you know that Reznor means business. Disclaimer: EP is not a relaxing listen, but nothing NIN did ever was.2
4. Help Me I Am in Hell- Strangley strummed , almost tinny like with macrabe like FX that hall marks so many NIN tunes 5
5. Happiness in Slavery- Distorto, and much more of an electronic touch. Excellent piece of songwriting, there is a lot more complexity here that meet the eye. Very dark and graphic subject matter around Erotica-torture. In some ways I kind of see this as a precursor to Reznor's extension and reach into Soundtrack work. Sound like something from that cinematic genre. 3
6. Gave Up- More of a Thrash Metal kind of curve. Screams infer bedlam and chaos. Hits that mark for sure. 6
7. Physical (You're So)- Didn't really see the point or need of doing a Adam and Ant's cover. Seems a waste, considering Reznor's superior songwriting prowess. Nice re-do, but in the grand plan, I'd prefered that Reznor continue the concept instead of ending the EP with two covers. In soome ways this comes across more like an '80's hair band fixture than what we expect. 7
8. Suck- Another cover, though I will have to admit I had never heard of the band (Pig Face). This is a really strange song that can be parrsed in half, and the halves are so dissimilar, it will floor you with that bizarre. It starts with an almost funk like motiff, but alternates, and then delves in massively into industrial metal crunch. Reznor adds some "D-Spiral" like FX to the mix Very Cool. 4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i2dYO_dgKBk (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i2dYO_dgKBk)
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@catfish1957...my brother keeps telling me about the movie "Yesterday". Since I have basic cable, it will be a while until I can see it. He loved it. Although it is marketed as a comedy...it broke his heart.
As far as Magical Mystery Tour it's hard for me to comment. There are moments of brilliance. But I actually stopped following them after Rubber Soul/Revolver. Yes...I'm an ole gal coot , lol.
For the record, I think Harrison was the most under appreciated member of the group. And Ringo, maybe not Krupa, but he sure played to enhance the song the group was playing. A feat in its self at a time when the drummers all wanted solos that went on forrrevvverrr. I have seen Paul and he is a super performer. Playing to the audience and seems to really enjoy it. I can't leave out John...a great lyricist...but seems to be kind of a jerk. But that's really nothing against him. I can think of many other talented people that are jerks. Clapton is the first that comes to my mind, and I love him.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Def Leppard- Andrenalize (1992) ****
Def Leppard by 1991 had already seen enough tragedy to fill a sad documentary. 1st being drummer Rick Allen's arm amputation in the mid 1980's. Then in 1991, superstar guitarist Steve Clark had succumbed to substance abuse. At the time, I figured that '87's classic Hysteria was their last one. Not only was Hysteria their greatest album, I consider it the greatest Glam Rock LP EVER Made.
But to the testament of the heart of the band, they not only recovered, they made their second best LP... today's Andrenalize. Clark wasn't replaced for Adrenalze, but rhythm guitarist Phil Collen did a remarkable job of not only filling in, but his ability to almost replicate Clark's wild runs and arpeggios was fantastic, and with a hell of a lot of skill. The songwriting is top notch too. In retrospect, I should have given Hysteria 4 1/2 stars, and I might at a future recalibration. Because this album has 4 written all over it, and still is a notch still below it's predecessor.
From a style angle Adrenalize is just a tad more standard rocking than Glam, and you do have to hand it to legendary producer Mutt Lange, he like Bob Ezrin had an amazing ability to extract a fantastic sound that exceeds the band's natural abilities. To me he's and icon of popular music, and can see him much in the like of the fictional character Bruce Dickinson. Lange procuced the 2nd through 6th album,and oversaw their rise to stardom.
Fun Fact: Admittedly I am not familar with their newer works, but this the band is fine example chart consistence. Since stardom (3rd album-Pyromania-1987), Every album (10 albums 1987-2022) has cracked the Top 20.
Side 1-
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Let's Get Rocked- DL starts the fun on 50/50 rock/glam mix that almost has a Pyromania feel too it. Collen makes his presence known right at the onset. Very good Def Leppard tune that hits all the points- 2
Heaven Is- Song very innovatively has almost a retro '70's feel. Power chords, Glammish lyrically metered, and strong hooking? Yeah Def Leppard Rocks. 4
Make Love Like a Man- I always thought the lyrics were strangely silly. Singing a song about the presence of masculinty kind of seems questionable, if you need to bring it up in the first place. Song wise, still very good, in a very consistent LP. 5
Tonight- Not awful, but balladry with a few exceptions is not DL's strong suit. Some nice blues soloing towards the end add some redemptive points. 8
White Lightning- The band's most blatant foray into '80's hair band territory. But who wants more rehashed Motley Crue??... Not me. Not impressive, and the fact this goes on for 7 tortuous minutes just adds to the misery. 9
Side 2-
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Stand Up (Kick Love Into Motion). This is the sleeper and one of my actual favorites on the album. A little crow on my part. Two songs ago I said I didn't care much for this band's ballads. But with Stand Up, it is what I would almost call a semi-ballad. It has that structure, but nicely interlaces rocking verses that really work, Song also has some great scream like harmonization that makes it unique and memorable. 1
Personal Property- A standard hard rocker that hits all the marks. Almost has an early 1970's Aerosmith aura to it. 6
Have You Ever Needed Someone So Bad- This was the biggest hit on the album, and I am flabberghasted why? Oh well, 10
I Wanna Touch You- Heavyily hooked, and ultra glam, but so damned catchy that it ends up being top tier on a really really good album here. No complexity, but says that it has to be that way. 3
Tear it Down- Band ends the work on another hair band number that is decent. DL would have made it byself in that genre, but am thankful that their repitioire was diverse enough to show that level of additonal versatility. 7
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rRncyw6qh2c (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rRncyw6qh2c)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Def Leppard- Andrenalize (1992) ****
Def Leppard by 1991 had already seen enough tragedy to fill a sad documentary. 1st being drummer Rick Allen's arm amputation in the mid 1980's. Then in 1991, superstar guitarist Steve Clark had succumbed to substance abuse. At the time, I figured that '87's classic Hysteria was their last one. Not only was Hysteria their greatest album, I consider it the greatest Glam Rock EVER Made.
But to the testament of the heart of the band, they not only recovered,, they made their second best LP... today's Andrenalize. Clark wasn't replaced for Adrenalze, but rhythm guitarist Phil Collen did a remarkable job of not only filling in, but his ability to almost replicate Clark's wild runs and arpeggios was fantastic, and with a hell of a lot of skill. The songwriting is top notch too. In retrospect, I should have given Hysteria 4 1/2 stars, and I might at a future recalibration. Because this album has 4 written all over it, and still is a notch still below it's predecessor.
From a style angle Adrenalize is just a tad more standard rocking than Glam, and you do have to hand it to legendary producer Mutt Lange, he like Bob Ezrin had an amazing ability to extract a fantastic sound that exceeds the band's natural abilities. To me he's and icon of popular music, and can see him much in the like of the fictional character Bruce Dickinson. Lange procuced the 2nd through 6th album,and oversaw their rise to stardom.
Fun Fact: Admittedly I am not familar with their newer works, but this the band is fine example chart consistence. Since stardom (3rd album-Pyromania-1987), Every album (10 albums 1987-2022) has cracked the Top 20.
Side 1-
-----------
Let's Get Rocked- DL starts the fun on 50/50 rock/glam mix that almost has a Pyromania feel too it. Collen makes his presence known right at the onset. Very good Def Leppard tune that hits all the points- 2
Heaven Is- Song very innovatively has almost a retro '70's feel. Power chords, Glammish lyrically metered, and strong hooking? Yeah Def Leppard Rocks. 4
Make Love Like a Man- I always thought the lyrics were strangely silly. Singing a song about the presence of masculinty kind of seems questionable, if you need to bring it up in the first place. Song wise, still very good, in a very consistent LP. 5
Tonight- Not awful, but balladry with a few exceptions is not DL's strong suit. Some nice blues soloing towards the end add some redemptive points. 8
White Lightning- The band's most blatant foray into '80's hair band territory. But who wants more rehashed Motley Crue??... Not me. Not impressive, and the fact this goes on for 7 tortuous minutes just adds to the misery. 9
Side 2-
------------
Stand Up (Kick Love Into Motion). This is the sleeper and one of my actual favorites on the album. A little crow on my part. Two songs ago I said I didn't care much for this band's ballads. But with Stand Up, it is what I would almost call a semi-ballad. It has that structure, but nicely interlaces rocking verses that really work, Song also has some great scream like harmonization that makes it unique and memorable. 1
Personal Property- A standard hard rocker that hits all the marks. Almost has an early 1970's Aerosmith aura to it. 6
Have You Ever Needed Someone So Bad- This was the biggest hit on the album, and I am flabberghasted why? Oh well, 10
I Wanna Touch You- Heavyily hooked, and ultra glam, but so damned catchy that it ends up being top tier on a really really good album here. No complexity, but says that it has to be that way. 3
Tear it Down- Band ends the work on another hair band number that is decent. DL would have made it byself in that genre, but am thankful that their repitioire was diverse enough to show that level of additonal versatility. 7
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rRncyw6qh2c (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rRncyw6qh2c)
I learned something new today. That Def Leppard had an album before “High and Dry.” I always thought that that was their first album because it was the first Def Leppard album I bought the year it came out.
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I learned something new today. That Def Leppard had an album before “High and Dry.” I always thought that that was their first album because it was the first Def Leppard album I bought the year it came out.
The reason it kind of went under the radar is because initial sales were dismal. The fact it took 9 years to go platinum was because of the success of the next 3. Part curiosity, part reason most were not familar with their discography. This the one was the only one of the 5 LPs in their hay day, not produced by Lange too.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Tool- Undertow (1993) *** 1/2
Today's installment is quite a remarkable band that is a leader of their rather narrowed but splintered genre. Describing Tool is variable mix of Alternative, Prog, and Metal. These aren't pikers as their music has a massive amount of complexity, and difficulty. Their use head spinning time/key changes and phrasing is not really an easy listen, but you can't help admire their massive talent. Think Metallica meets Pearl Jam meets Dream Theatre. They also have that Rush-ish ability to have that full orchestrative sound with just 3 instruments. Lyrically, they aren't quite as dark as Reznor, but I will grant that there is a lot of stuff that are amazing just for dark poetic value alone. Some with subtley, others like a kick in the gut. And all three plus vocalist Maynard Keenan are all top tier on their contributions.
Additonally, the making of a Tool CD must be an ardeous process. This fine band has only made 5 studio albums in 30 years. And one point I think is important to bring up about Tool, is that their what I call radical experimentation from album to album is kept to a minimum. Tool knows what makes them great, and they refuse to cheapen the product and disappoint their fans. Keenan's semi minstral like vocal are complex and intricate organized rambling that should be patented. When you hear a Tool song, there is no doubt who makes it.
Picking one to review was pretty tough, as all five are in 3 star territory. And my only giving them 3 is not exactly an estimate of their worth. Just my taste. They are incredibly talented, but not a comfortable listen. Maybe I am a contrarian by choosing their first one- Undertow. Excellent album, and the only one of their 5 that didn't chart No. 1 or 2. To me, it does seems to be the most representive, and possibly their darkest. Did they take a fashionable cue from NIN? I don't think so, but like any other musical genre including Grunge, 2nd generation bands like and seem to want to push the envelope. Tool sounded nothing like Nirvanna or Pearl Jam. Neither had the chops of these guys. Special recognition to Drummer Drew Carrey too. There is a good reason that Carey is often mentioned as a possible drummer replacement in case Alex Lifeson/Geddy Lee decide to reunite for music/tour. Carey has amazing tight technique, and only one of a handful who could replicate Peart's stuff.
Fun Fact: Henry Rollins did a cameo for backup singing on one song on this album. (Bottom)
Track No.
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1. Intolerance- Tool starts their career with. heavily off tempoed synced effort, that with obvious grunge like sound is nothng like what had come out of Seattle at the time. Crazy FX add to the chaotic magic- 3
2. Prison Sex- Comes off a little like a mainstream grunge effort, but one of the best on the LP. Has unique phrasic metering that with intense subject matter, sure seems to have that emotional bond. Not sure where Keenan got his POV, with this effort but it comes across as sincere. 4
3. Sober- Love the bass line on this number. So very simple and repetitve, but fills and fits the melodic line like a glove. And I can't resist repeating that Keenan's lyrics are pure poetry. Adding his feel of anger in them just is like icing on the cake. 1
4. Bottom- In somewhat a change of pace, Tool does one that comes decently close to mainstream. First in the lot that Keenan does a Jim Morrison like narrative mid song in a macrabe mood Solidly consistent album. 6
5. Crawl Away- Heavy Pearl Jam sounding, not bad but one of the weakest on this LP. 10
6. Swamp Song- Sinister and depressing account that again sounds too realistic Best metal effort from that prespective. 7
7. Undertow- Title track that sure has a strong technical base, but meanders off into tangents. Would be a good song for other bands. This one tries too hard but misses the mark, just a tad. Still rank it high in instrumentation value 5
8. 4- Albums seems to be ebbing slightly at the end- Lower tier, but not bad. 9
9. Flood- Foray into mostly deep and low FX excellent off-keying that gives a horror film vibe. Most of the song is instrumental, and it is the most interesting part of the song 8
10. Disgustipated- Album sleeper. First.... I almost forgot to mention that a good chunk of the album has religious overtones. This culminates into one of the strangest, scarey, and bizzare songs I have heard. In kind of the same vein of The Door's "The End" or the end of the Guess Who's Hang On to your life, but with more narrative points and with NIN kind of FX. Addiing to this 15 minute of this non-music strange journey are several minutes of cricket sounds. Ending in a spine chilling voice of stuff of the ultre' in the exteme. And of course, more poetic value than musical, but like Reznor, Keenan had a warpness that is hard to top. 2
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MgVoZcPIPqI (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MgVoZcPIPqI)-
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Came across what appears to be a bootleg documentary of the early '70's Alice Cooper phenom. Not sure of the legality or copyright issues. But the authors did a nice job with intro, and some early concert footage I had never seen before.
We had some interesting discussions previously around what killed Disco. Well, you know what killed Flower Power Hippiedom? This band and Black Sabbath.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ycbpDHhhkLw (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ycbpDHhhkLw)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Yes - Close to the Edge- (1972)- *****
Half of the fun of doing these reviews is choosing an LP that is a joy to hear, like seeing a masterpiece. A masterpiece in essence of an audio painting that is 10X greater than the sum of its pieces. Yes is that kind of band. Their ability to extract such a complex prog sound with minimal effort is amazing. This band gelled so perfectly that it seemed they were in each others musical astral plane. They played as a collective, much like the Borg in Star Trek lore. And what makes us all love this stuff so well? Besides superior songwriting and ultra-top notch viruosity, this band has this genre bending ability that so delicately parses, and is presented in such a mesmerizing manner. It so easy to get lost in their work, and forget the majestic mastery.
Which, brings me up to explain why I didn't really care for this when it first came out. And the reason was musical maturity. When I was 15, I was jamming to Alice Cooper, Black Sabbath, and other bands in the era that had a lot more heavy sound and heavy hook derivative. I really didn't really really start get interested into Yes, until I starting cutting my Prog teeth with Rush in about 1976. Like a cold slap... I finally got it, and starting understanding and appreciating the value and worth of Progressive acts.
Close to the Edge is (was) kind of an artistic shift for the band. Everything before Close to the Edge had at least some element in the LP that had some radio appeal. And wildly, their were no '45's issued for this LP. 3 songs, and 37 minutes was partly why, but I think the band wanted CTTE to be that way. Still, this was absolutely unheard of in 1972. An album without a supporting single broke every rule in the music business at the time. But Yes was that great and popular at the time, and their record company knew it. Even without a supporting '45, the album still reached No. 3 on the charts.
I would be amiss, that there is a sad aspect here too. This would be the last LP with Bill Bruford as Drummer. Though he did a half stint on "Union" about 20 years later. Bruford is my favorite drummer during during Yes' career. It's hard too put a finger on why, but I think he is synonymous with the great classic sound of Yes' best period. Talent wise, I don't see that much of a difference technically between he and White. Just my personal preference maybe.
Since there are only three songs , with the first two, with four movements, I'll just up front say as far as my choices, i'd start with "You and I", as first, "Close to the Edge"- Second, and "Siberian Khatru"- 3rd. But song greatness in an order on this LP is pretty irrelevant. There are no weaknesses on this LP. As far as a reviews, I'd prefer you treat it as me being your tour guide instead of a critic. Or. just enjoy it without my input.
Fun Fact: Apparently this album was so weighed down by it's maestro like complex mastery, that Bill Bruford called making this album "Tortuous and like climbing mt. Everest. Disappointing that Bruford did not have the stamina or fortitude to stick with the Big Boys.
Side 1-
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Close to the Edge. Song is broken up in 4 movements that I will hopefully try to discern. Sometimes the transitons are a little hard to read, but I will do my best.
*. The Solid Time of Change- Opening movement has highlights some great Squire bass work, as he Howe do some crazy chaotic inter-runs that are off the scale in complexity and difficulty. Key and time changes are not only prevalent, but cressendo/decressendo work is in a class of it's own. Anderson's voice as an example is stronger too.
*- Total Mass Retain- Anderson dominates movement with ease. Accompanment fantastically augments until the instrumental solo. Final part has that etheral like sound that seems almost as precurssor to some of the "Going Foor the One" work that will show up in about 5 years.
*- I Get Up, I Get Down- Very Anderson melodic work that delves into some spine chilling Wakeman church organ. I have made it no secret that my one most loved instrumental sound is a church organ, blasting chrords at a 100 db. Chills indeed.
*- Season of Man- In a crazy twist, the band moves to an almost Tarkus like approach to the conclusion. This harkens to a lot of Yes' roots with a strong Jazz like feel. You get it all here.
Side 2-
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And You and I- Another 4 movement piece that is a song play list mainstay of any serious Yes fan
*- Cord of Life- Beautiful major chording that I have great memories of myself up-fretting that D-chord on my SG to my vicarious joy. So simple, but so effective.
*- Eclipse- The etheral beauty continues , with Steve Howe giving some Roger Waters like soulful guitar solo licks. The first two movements IMO are the highlghts of the LP
* The Preacher, The Teacher- Band continues with the same melodic line, and adds this movement in an innovative manner as almost a alternative chorus of the same song. But there are some subtle differences that you see that the band almost side angles the theme/product. Folks, this is prog, at its utter best.
*- Apocalypse- Almost a continuation of Preacher, and just more icing on the cake.
Siberian Khatru- Another course correction. Song has an almost funky base, but is much more complicated and melodic than that general genre. Chris Squire's work on this one is kind of unheralded, since this one was amost provided to Howe and Wakeman as providers of an instrumental clinic. I mean even harpiscord is added. There are no weak spots on this LP, but in a small sense, I feel the band might have put more into this one for style over substance. No diss in that fact, and trying to find a negative about this album is near impossible.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WRSugblInEY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WRSugblInEY)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Abba- Abba: The Album (1977) ** 1/2
Today's installment is from my guilty pleasures archive. For the terribly uninformed, Abba obviously was not a rock group. They were a Swedish pop group that made very good melodic uber-hooked hits, and sold tons of singles. There is really no level of what I would call instrumental excellence. But they had an incredible knack of reaching into pop sensibilities that peaked the pleasantry neural receptors. The core of the band were two married couples, that did do a nice job of extracting relationship karma into their songwriting. The stuff was from the heart, no doubt.
Abba also had one of my two teenage crushes. Agnetha was a breaktakingly beautiful front lady, and beond sexy. Her and Frieda captivated the audience. Their husbands and the rest of the crew performed invisibily. Of course, no way would I ever have an Agetha poster on my dorm wall. I would have been drubbed out of the cool rockers club. :cool: That spot was, and acceptably reserved for Stevie Nicks.
This particular album is the best of the studio lot, but it is has a lot of weak filler spots. The known hits are great, and the filler is mostly gimickry stuff, as almost self parodization. And for that reason, instead of investing in any one of their 9 albums, stick with one of their 12 compliation offerings. There really isn't much to discuss around the musianship. It comes across in some ways no better than studio musicans. This band in essence, are steeped into world class hooks, with very good vocalizations, and harmonizations that are top notch. It is a relaxing listen, so no need to over analyze.
Fun Fact: I was kind of shocked to find out that this was Abba's only studio album that reached Platinum status in the U.S. There were 2 top 20 songs, which was a norm for Abba in their career They were the ultimate '45's pop group.
Side 1-
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Eagle- FX laden and off tangented effort. Not an especially great start. Not the worst on the LP, but mediocre. 6
Take a Chance on Me- Beautiful harmonies and incredible hook lines. One of Abba's classics. 1
One Man, One Woman- Channeled their worst Anne Murray on this one, some interesting piano at end provides a slight, just slight bit of redemption. 7
Name of the Game- Another melodic classic. Nothing complex or cerebral here. Just masterful pop. The trailing background Trumpet is nice touch too. 2
Side 2-
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Move On- Caribbean ridiculousness , rife with harpischord and steel drums. A big swing and miss. 9
Hole in Your Soul- Abba's attempt at a more hardrocking sound. Tune has an Elton John feel to it. As absurd as that concept seems, the song isn't that bad. I guess Saturday can be alright for fighting .... In Sweden. 5
Thankyou For the Music.- Broadway-ish like song that was a staple in their playlist, as kind of a strange self ode their music . 4
I Wonder (Deprture)- The sleeper. It is ballad in nature, but has some of the better songwritng on the LP. This final trio on the album was apparently intended to encompass what would be the bones of a musical. And this one is the top tier of this group- 3
I'm a Merionette- Overboard show tune. Forced dramatic singing with impinged rock guitar, and a disco strings add? Give me a break. 8
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=njmPGVHxH7M (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=njmPGVHxH7M)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lcW4WAOT1us (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lcW4WAOT1us)
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Open invitation to anyone who would like particpate in providing some album reviews.
In 2 years, I've only been able to cover about 160. Considering how many 10's or even 100's of thousands have been made, there are so many that deserve discussion.
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Abba....
Nutshell. Loved em.
Closest clone: Bucks Fizz (I think a beer brand in England) came close about 4 times.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ThGD3wLpSLs
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Well, although ABBA wasn't a titan of true rock and roll...they were pretty good at what they did. :laugh:
I used to have season tickets to the musicals in Dallas. The touring company did MaMa Mia one year. Probably one the most fun I've ever had a musical. Everyone knew the songs and sang along.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- April Wine - Power Play (1982). ***
Hate to start on a sad note to start this review. Didn't realize that few months that lead singer, lead guitar, and principle song writer of April Wine, Myles Goodwyn had passed away at age 75. This one really went under the radar. RIP. April Wine is a fantastic Canadian outfit that made 16 studio albums between 1971-2006. They pretty much were only a big deal in their own country, until about 1979, when they came out with their first great hit "Roller". From there, they made in my estimation 3 excellent albums that really elevated them in the AORisphere. Harder... Faster, Nature of the Beast, and Power Play. All were really good. All three were on almost level footing, and a wise investment of vinyl. All being near, equal, I defaulted to Power Play, because it was the only one of the three available in its entirety on YT.
April Wine easily should be in the all time top 10 in music from Canada, and the fact they had the persisitence and drive to last 7 albums before cracking the U.S. market says a lot I can't explain why, but the band did peak during these 3, and subsequent stuff in the mid 1980's onward, though not bad, never was able to recapture that magic. Was it the 4 year hiatus 1988-1992? Not sure how much was lineup changes were to writers block either. And since the creative center of the band was Goodwyn, maybe no one could pull up the slack.
One thing that kind of killed the popularity was that arena rock was slowly dying. But for those 3, they put together a strong effort. They were masters of power chording that from the reviewer's perspective is a long last art that defined an era. Band also does a good job of harmonies and unique licks to stay fresh and current in that dying age of AOR. Sadly, the multi (2/3) wailing and fighting axes were dropping like flies.. And finally I'd be amiss to give another big middle finger to the sham of rock and roll hall of fame in Cleveland. Not including April Wine to the rolls is a joke.
Fun Fact: Goodwyn was the only constant in April Wine, and the only member to appear in all their albums.
Side 1-
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Anything You Want, You Got It- Excellent start with a heavy piece that highlights some great fighting wailing guitar. 2
Enough is Enough- What a great song. Unique hooks that mixes well as melodic powerpunch. Has that almost '70's nostalgic feel that hits the mark. Best cut on the LP 1
If You See Kay- Van Halen had already played cute with For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge. I guess there is an appeal to teen guys on double entendre word play. Bluezy base not in the their best effort or music direction 8
What if We Fall in Love- Obligatory ballad. Not bad, or that good for that matter 6
Witing on a Miracle- Decent medium rocker that sounds like a blend of Bon Jovi and Rick Springfield. 4
Side 2-
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Doin' It Right- Kind of a barrel house, rock-a-billy feel that does a decent job off-genred. 3
A'int Got Your Love- Standard rocker that has some very intresting guitar mixing. Another one that harkens niceley to early '70's style. 5
Blood Money- Not the best effort from the group songwriting or performance. In fact its pretty bad. 9
Tell Me Why- Arghhhhh!!!. Gawd awful Beatles cover. It's bad enough trying to do a cover from one of the all time greats, but when you suck at it, it makes it that much more cringe worthy- 10
Runners in the Night- Another rather weak effort that I guess tries to emulate Hendrix/ Trower, ....nope. 7
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WPFzhY4imBQ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WPFzhY4imBQ)
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@catfish1957
behind in this thread but you have some excellent albums- and bands just added.
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Open invitation to anyone who would like particpate in providing some album reviews.
In 2 years, I've only been able to cover about 160. Considering how many 10's or even 100's of thousands have been made, there are so many that deserve discussion.
Thank you for always providing interesting analysis.
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Thank you for always providing interesting analysis.
Ditto
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Abba....
Nutshell. Loved em.
Closest clone: Bucks Fizz (I think a beer brand in England) came close about 4 times.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ThGD3wLpSLs
Talk about similar...... Hope they gave homage to Abba in the liner notes.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Journey- Departure- 1980 *** 1/2
This particular album has so much ambivalence for me, and for a couple of reasons... 1979 - 1980 was a massive line of demarcation for Journey. This exct moment in their history sees a significant shift toward pop-rocking, while seeing the artistic control shfiting from Schon/Rollie/et.al towards the charasmtic front man, Steve Perry. But with that shift, this is a really good album that blends those newly found hook tools, and mixed them into the hard rock base for a really good listen. This magic was fleeting, as I explain further.
Journey had been a hard rock/bluez like outfit, and made 3 so-so, but decent LPs 1975-1977. The formula was good, but they were a tad off, trying to get the '70's AOR fans to give them more than a supporting outfit. These guys could seriously jam and there was no doubt that musicanship was not a problem, as there were no weak links in the lineup. But the lack of a attention grabbing front man, and some previous un-even songwriting was penalizing the group of reaching the brass ring.
Enter Steve Perry with that stage presence, unique voice, and some infusion of a more hooked, pop direction. By the time the first 3 had been produced with Perry's songwriting and hit the air waves, Journey had shot up in popularity like a rocket. The 3 LP tandem 0f Infinity, Evolution, and Departure all went Triple Platinum. Not only had Journey become a headliner, they became of Headliner of Headliners. Footing as Top headliner at several arena musical festivals.
But as mentioned earlier, the progression of Journey was a bittersweat trek. With those pop sensibilities and new found fame, it was becoming more evident that Steve Perry had an increasingly added stranglehold on band song content, and style direction. So, for the next few albums, Journey even got more popular, but it was at expense of their loyal fans who enjoyed the traditonal Journey sound. By each additional moment, it was becoming clear that Journey was Perry, and the rest of the band who were great were being pushed farther and farther back into the spotlight. That ended up destroying the group. At least that's my take.
Perry, finally left the band, and since they have become Casino specialist, with an Oriental singer who sounds more like Perry, than Perry himself. The fact their albums were becoming weak by the mid 1980's gives the impression of a ride that the overall legend of Journey is a lot like Styx. Get a primma-donna front man, and let them change your band into a pop band? It is a reciepe for disaster. For all practical purposes, Steve Perry and Dennis DeYoung are depsicable types for destroying two great rock bands that still had a lot of great music in them. But nope, the sell-out enused. Still these 3 albums remain available that almost serve as a swan song for AOR.
Fun Fact: There was a moment in about '70 that Clapton offered Neil Schon a spot in Derek and the Dominos.
Side 1-
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Anyway You Want- Outstanding Clssic Rock song with enough of dose of perfect hook, but some damned fine jamming in the true tradtion of Journey. Can't think or listen to this one without fond memories of the dancing Gopher in Caddy Shack- 1
Walks Like a Lady- Smooth jazzy/blues-ish balad that was not only a big hit, but a deserved one- Some of the last unabated blues licks Schon had with Journey during the Perry tenure. 5
Someday Soon- Strange style in Journey's terms with odd time signatures, and unusually delievered phrasing. The barrell aura of latter chorus adds to the unique spin on this one. 6
People and Places- Spacey/Airy sound that outside some excellent Rolie Keyboard, nothing too great in the big pic though.. 7
Precious Time- The LP's sleeper. Intro has nice chording, and melodic voicing that slowly grows and growls into one fabulous jam session. Everybody came to play, and it is awesome. Too bad they couldn't had 4 more like this, and deep 'ed Steve Perry's stuff. 2
Side 2-
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Where Were You- You'd think that the most standard almost '70's like journey song would be good add to the playlist. It's decent , but does't really hold up well against others- 9
I'm Crying- Flat up blues, but a failed attempt to blend into the rest. Sticks out like a sore thumb, and not in good way.. 11
Line of Fire- Heck Yeah. Hard rocker, but enough well plced hooks that give side 2 its great contributioon. Schon licks are tight, and crisp. 3
Deprture- 30 seconds of guitar FX that are pretty pointless. If they blended into a classic tune, it might have given it some redeeming value.
but nope, it eases into the shittiest song on the album. 8
Good Morning Girl- This is Perry crooning shit aat its utter worst., This is the crap tht helped destroyed the band. 12
Stay Awhile- Another Perry crooner, but much much better and enjoyble. Incredible these two were recorded back to back. 4
Homemade Love- Albums closes with a so-so effort. Not as bad as Perry's venture into whimpdom. But not much. 10
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eoG9U8n0dWo (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eoG9U8n0dWo)
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Disclaimer: I think Perry's voice is phenomenal.
If I think about the early Journey days...although they were musically gifted, I can't recall a single number that they did. Post Perry...very played music and lots of $$ made by the artists. I know I'm not a musician, but there should be some meeting of the minds that produces pop and entices to listen to the more "artistic" pieces. I hate to sound mercenary, but pop and radio music produces $$. At most of the concerts I've gone to, the audiences want to hear the "favorites" not a jam session.
Journey sure isn't the only band that under went a metamorphosis from rock to pop. Think Fleetwood Mac, Chicago, Doobies. It kept them relevant in a very competitive industry. The only band that I can think of that went theother direction is the Beatles who started pop and went in a different direction. But if you have a big enough following...you can do what you want.
I got a chuckle out of the "casino" band reference because it's so darn true. I had the opportunity to see Journey several years ago. But I said to myself..."berdie...why would you pay $150 to see what is essentially a cover band?"
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Great observations @berdie. Styx was another in that host of bands that you mentioned. Hwever, they didn't pull it off near as well as say Fleetwood Mac. What was special about them, was their artisitc turn to Tusk after Rumors. They stayed true to their aim of mixing it up to great success.
One of the reasons I chose Departure this time for this review, was to make the point that this was the particular album that Journey perfectly thread the needle with their product that highlighted their pop transition, while still keeping their purist fans happy.
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- The Who- The Who Sell Out- (1967) *** 1/2
This Fascinating and semi-ground breaking LP that exemplifies and parallels the Beatle Mania Mod transition to psychadaelia. This particular album is genius in that somewhat serves as a concept album of illustrating how music radio, even in the mid 1960's had infliltrated the music industry so badly, that Pete used the theme not only in art album, but how he beautifully manipulated the song transitions in a manner of AM radio at the time. Ingenious, and just another example of how perfectly attuned Pete Townsend was with what would and not work on vinyl. No this is not the greatness you would see in this band in another few years. Think about it, the next 3 (4) efforts include Tommy, (Light House), Who's Next, and Quadrophenia. The period of the Who from 1969- 1973, was so prolific, that the many outtakes that didn;t make the cut, are now classics.
Style wise, even though this may be their transitional album, the break from Mod was not as abrupt as with Sgt. Pepper/Magical Mystery Tour. But that isn't a bad thing. I am very thankful that their career path didn't mimic the Beatles, as soon they will be among the greats of hard rock. The Beatles toyed a tad toward that direction, but Townsend obviously had to see the success of Sabbath and Purple, and realized that adding an edge to the sound would give them the best of both worlds. And in the world of Rock bands born in the early 1960's, The Who pulled off the transition, better than anyone else. Of course it's always been a mystery to me, that as out of this world i creativity that Townsend was, why he got writer's block in the mid 1970's. Good albums of course, but he never was able to recreate that level of consisitency of late '60's, early '70's. Maybe Moon's death? Who knows. Still, I would be amiss, if I did mention that this LP does have some un-evenness to it, keeping it from 4 star or higher status. But it doesn't matter, the upcoming stuff will be stuff of legends.
Another part of the Who persona that I love, is this is a band, no matter how talented ( Think about it.... Townsend, Moon, Entwistle) never took theirselves so seriously, that they infused enough humor, satire, and tom foollery to not only keep the product great, it added an air of humanity that the fans could relate. Versus the Beatles, who had gotten so large, that it created an aura of prenteniousness and over analysis. While pencil necked crtics were trying to elevate Lennon and McCartney to prophet status, bands like The Who kept ball rolling and folks rocking well into the '70's and beyond.
And last what is endearing and kind of sad about this album is the ending of The Who as Mods. Their next effort Tommy is so different that it is unrecogniable against "Sell Out" The cocoon to Butterfly move is rock history. Yes, there are some signs the end is near, but the fact that the Who totally abandoned the genre, pretty much shows that Townsen was always hell bent on evolving. Which kind of hurt the band by the late 1970's. Pete Townsend feared any critical comments about stagnation. In the overall standing of the greatness of the Who, I think it hurt them.
Fun Fact: Does the U.K. love their native band? Today's album was the worst U.K. charting LP in the band's history. No.13. 10 of their 12 studio LP's charted into their Top 10.
Side 1-
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Armenia City in the Sky- Rare out of band collaboration of Speedy Keen with Townsend. Keen was a Thunderclap Newman member (hows that for a trivia question blast from the past). Obviously this is Townsend's first foray into out in out pscyadaelia. To me, decent but feels a little to forced to be taken serious in the genre. More experimental than from the chops. 4
Heinz Baked Beans- Satrical Ditty, that was interesting, at least in that time and reference. 12
Mary Anne and the Shaky Hand- Kind of a buzzard off tuned early like 1960's number that almost seems to diss the earlier styles- 7
Odorono- Some of the last bastions of the Who mod era. Same metering, choral harmonies. 8
Tattoo- Light balladry that has to be included. Not the best of their catalog in that regard- 10
Our Love Was- I consider this their last shout out to Beatlemania. Nicely melodically done, and some what I would call some innovative guitar at the time. Psyh guitar work at the end was a nice touch. 6
I Can See For Miles- The by far, greatest tune on the LP. This is the slap that gives listeners what they can expect the next 5 years. Townsend's brain jarring guitar, and fablous percussion by the Loon? Classic chaotic Who at its best. 1
Side 2-
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Can't Reach You- I see a lot of the melodic base in this one being incorporated in Tommy. Nice choral Bolero like progressions screams '60's, but done so nicely that you can stealthly see the musical progression off that time tied mark. 3
Medac- Pointless filler gibberish 13
Relax- Multi-phasic tune, that hits all the buttons. Enough melodic psychadealia to keep it crisp, but not too much in dating it. Sleeper status for this LP 2
Silas Stingy- This level of story telling is kind of a precurssor to some of Tommy's lesser fodder. No thanks. 11
Sunrise- Mediocre Townsend ballad- 9
Rael- Even with this Cowsill's vibe, very innovative like airy song doesn't sound much like a Who effort. Anyone else notice "The Sparks" Tommy redux? 5
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mjcp42Q0Xgg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mjcp42Q0Xgg)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Pearl Jam- Ten (1991) ***
Pearl Jam is a text book example of the sudden fame, them flame out story. Early Pearl Jam was one of the progenitors of Seattle's Grunge scene with Nirvana. Rounding out the Seattle pioneers included Soundgarden and Alice in Chains. But it was these first two that helped define what Grunge was, what it stood for, and how it was to progress.
Nirvana flamed out for the reasons of excess, including of course most sadly, Kurt Kobain's suicide. Pearl Jam faded for drastically different reasons. Their debut was very very good, as they took a more rocking edged sound to Alternative. And I repeat this is a good album in any era, and how huge was it? Try 13X platinum. And from there to today, and yes they are still recording, the descent from grace has been a slow downward ride. Here are sales of their 12 studio albums in chronological order.... 13XP, 7XP, 5XP, 1XP, 1XP, Gold, Gold, Gold, Gold, Gold, Nothing, Nothing, So what happened? I have a few theories including first and most of all, that front man Eddie Vedder is extremely difficult to work with. In fact when you read the credits for the album he is listed as vocals and "additional art". How pretentious is that? I also think this may be something like "The Boston" syndrome, where a band ultimately shoots it's wad on a debut, and never finds those creative juices ever again. And 3rd, by 2000, Grunge was dying under its own weight of silly imitiators. That seems to happen with any new fad of musical genre.
With all the negative, I still want to state that this album is def. worth a listen though. And IMO as far as content, the best Grunge album ever made. But sampling subsequent LP's I found that the band was either rehashing old licks, or trying new stuff that came off as parody. Thus, why I am shocked that they are still recording.
The focal points of the band are of course, is Vedder who sucks the spotlight like a Dyson on 'roids. I also think highly of their guitaritst Mike McCready. Though not flashy, his ability to fill the expanse , gives PJ a unique sound that sound markedly often not Grungey. Even if abstract failure, I do have to give props to the band by keeping 3/4 members intact during their 30 year career. In true Spinal Tap fashion, only the drummers have been changed (All still alive though)
Fun Fact: Pearl Jam served as Neil Young's back up band in Young's 1995 album "Mirror Ball"
Track No.
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1. Once- Starts with a Phil Collins like intro, that then rocks more like a 1970's / Grunge Blended effort. Maybe this morphed effort helped differentiate themselves from Nirvanna, who took a more punk slanted approach. Good intro to the band, and even better to come. 6
2. Evenflow- The crown jewel of the PJ catalog. This is a top 5 staple of any Grunge fan, and deservedly so. So well metered, delivered. and I really enjoy the sublimjnal like blues like guitar undertows that includes an almost Hendrix/SRV like style. 1
3. Alive- What an excellent followup to Evenflow. Comes across as kind of a grunge ballad, but is much more heavier. And despite disturbing content (incest) has that perfect level of hook, musicanship, and grunginess to make it a hit. More McCready ax work helps too. 2
4. Why Go- You'd kind of swear that this was an '80's hair band number. Before grunge, I have an idea that this was what most of the Grunge group was jamming to at the time. As far as an add to the album? Meidocre. 8
5. Black- Somewhat of a semi-sleeper. Nothing hooked in this, but the most heartfelt aspects of the album. Nothing particuarly outstanding, but hearing the entire band at half speed was an interesting approach that I liked 5
6. Jeremy- What is it with the darkness of early 1990's music? NIN, Metallica, et. al. I don't remember things being that dank and depressing back then, but a lot of the music sure was. It was still an good way for Vedder and company to get their message across. Which the left took and bended the narrative from suicide to school shootings. Wasn't the first or last time our left wing enemies have jaded the message for their own benefit. 3
7. Oceans- Didn't say the album was perfect. Honestly, this is awful 11
8. Porch- Another effort out of Grunge-isphere. Outside some good guitar licks, nothing really much to report here. 7
9. Garden- CD seems to be tailing off into drivelous Vedder ramblings. No content, No direction, Nope. 10
10. Deep- Latter CD surprise. Interesting phrasing, bash-a-minute instrumentals, off-key leaning that sounds more like a touch of industrial infused mash. Song has a real improv feel to almost jam mode, that comes across strongly. 4
11. Release- Eastern Morrison like feel sang in a Vedder mono-tome. This is really like a Van Halen album. 2 or 3 great songs, surrounded by filler. 9
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S-cRKgcTFfI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S-cRKgcTFfI)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Fleetwood Mac- Mirage (1982) *** 1/2
By 1982, the era of Fleetwood Mac's dominance and stranglehold on the radio had ended. The 3 previous behemoths had yielded 22M in sales, why today's album only 2M. It could be speculated that Fleetwood Mac by design was a popular choice in the era in the disco age, but my theory on the drop off was the public's response to Tusk in '80. I loved it, and thought it was some of the bands greatest work, though it was highly steeped in experimental stuff, self reflection, and likely the most compartmentialized album in their career. Listening to it, there was no doubt whether this was a McVie, a Buckingham, or a Nicks song. There was that level of personalization, that significantly permetated the work.
IMO, at face value Mirage is almost as good, but not quite as the previous 3. There are some great songs, but the level of consistency is maybe just slightly off. Most markedly, it seem Lindsey Buckingham relinquished a slight amount of artistic control. Which is understandable that as much as I loved Tusk, the general album public didn't.
For a try at content contrast sake, this is a pretty typical album in Fleetwood Mac terms. The mix of artists is more equitable to say versus Tusk or Rumours. Which is not a plus for me. I have dissected Rumors and Tusk in a lot of detail in previous reviews, and as big as FM was, I don't think too much emphasis on the individual pluses and minuses adds much. I do think C McVie's contributions were less impactful (one exception though) than in the past LP's, but that is just my take. Plus, the almost pedistrian nature of M.Fleetwood/J. McVie's parts in this LP are so understated, you almost forget that they are there.
Fun Fact: Last No. 1 LP for the band on the U.S. charts.
Side 1-
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Love in Store- Chris McVie's one sterling contribution to the LP, and honestly the very best on the LP. Beautiful pop song, that so magnificantly blends Buckinghan, McVie's and Nicks voice into a sultry mix of pop music gold. Fantastic 1
Can't Go Back- Big drop off, and not one of Buckingham's least appealling pop songs. 10
That's Alright- C&W attempt by Nicks/band that falls far short. It does have that appealing tone, but Country is not in their repitorie. 12
Book of Love- Wow, I swore this song was on Tusk. I have a FM playlist, and it seems to just augment perfectly. Again, this is a rare add from Buckingham of a carryover from the Tusk style and effort, with slow rolling beats and incredible lyrical and instrumental fills. Wish there had been a few more on this album. On previous reviews, I have lamented how under appreciated, and under-rated Lindsey Buckingham was on guitar. This one is a good example of that prowess. 2
Gypsy- The biggest hit on the LP, and still not even in one of Stevie Nick's best 5 songs in Fleetwood Mac. I am still torn, jaded, and mesmerized by her sexy voice. And yes, that works for me in her ranking standing on the album- 3
Only Over You- The fact the same lady wrote and led Love in Store and this one on the same album is an utter mystery. I sure it was from the heart, but it just didn't connect for me. 9
Side 2-
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Empire State- Very pop infused that sounds nothing like the band normally offers. That broadway/Abba-ish vibe is okay, and kind of mid-point in song excellence. I think I gave it a few extra points for pulling off the experimental aspects of this. Especially say that failed effort around Country. 6
Straight Back- Nicks filler. A rarity- 8
Hold Me- Anothter of the hits from the LP. Nicely haromizations between the 3 main singers. And a masterful hook line that taps the toes. 4
Oh Diane- Ohh geez.. A foray into a 50's play. Nope. 11
Eyes of the World- Classical/pop infusion that does a nice job of adding that aspect of music to the equation. 5
Wish You Were Here- Album closes with typical C. McVie standard. Chris didn't make many really bad songs, and this one while not in her upper tiers, it still isn't too bad. 7
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omuHVXepAhU (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omuHVXepAhU)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- AC-DC - Highway to Hell (1979) **** 1/2
I'll just say it. Is this the most fun, rocking, and party-worthy band of all time? They are for me. AC/DC is another one of those absolutely great bands who have a perfect read on the pulse of their fans. Are they great lyricist? :silly: Are they a highly balanced plethora of talent? :silly: Though, granted, the Angus Young ax work is a magical touch of wizardry in the midst of 3 chord stand hard rock and roll, sans metal. I absolutely love the Bon Scott era too, as his ability to shrill and scream with this madness has that touch of a mysterious aura of classic rock at its best, the other guys are kind of journeyman status, good but unheralded. Songwriting hook chops are right in the sweet spot of these guy's product too.
Highway to Hell is an utter iconic staple of classic rock airplay. This LP and High Voltage are almost both perfect rock and roll albums in the Scott era. Little or no filler. Like earlier, this is a band that gives their fan's their moneys worth. What they lack in the pompous claim in artistry, is 1000% compensated by being the best at what they do. And that is standard 3 chord 2X4 up against the head un-PC, and inappropriate fare, to all our vicarious rock and roll fantasies of excess. And yeah, we love it.
In finale, one can not under-estimate what AC/DC has been in the world of rock and roll. Back in the 1978-'82 era, when New Wave/Punk genre was flooding the airwaves, AC/DC pretty much stood alone as an alternative. AOR was fading, but these boys held the mantle, and I am thankful for that. And this wouldn't be a complete review, without acknowleding the coup the band pulled off by adding Mutt Lange's production into focus. And this is another example where an extra production push that put this one is of classic status. Lange did a great and almost impossible job of corralling the Garage Band charm, and channeling it into a hard rocking hook machine. And bonus points too, for tightening up the product, much in the way Ezrin did with Kiss. That is why this LP makes a lot of "greatest Hard rock album" lists.
Fun Fact: Un-fun. Much like with the Who's Swan Song LP with "Who Are You", and "the not to be taken away" sad irony, this album of this name was so sad since, within a year Bon Scott had died. I like Brian Johnson as a replacement, but Bon was really not replacable.
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Highway to Hell- Outside Smoke on the Water, can you think of a more iconic hard rocking power chord intro? Nuff said. 1
(https://gifdb.com/images/high/rockstar-beavis-headbang-05aoo60rv8c192ug.gif)
Girl's Got Rthym- 90% of AC/DC's stuff is shameless double entendre' If you don't like it, and aren't rocking along with it?..... check with the ABBA review I did a few weeks back. 2
Walk Over You- Charm on this one, is this number has that look and feel of stuff they were doing 5 years earlier. Standard bluesy hard in your face rock and roll. 8
Touch Too Much- Nothing on this album is really what I call filler, but something has fall when this stuff is ranked. 9
Beating Around the Bush- Using that classic mid 30's "Baby Please Don't Go" classic blues licks. Angus smokes the solo on this, among others. 5
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Shot Down in Flames- The sleeper. Band takes a great song and adds some PG-13 hilarious songwriting. Love the power chords.... Fantastic one that isn't the first or last time the topic of misunderstanding women comes into focus. 4
Get It Hot- Seems they were trying to emulate early 1970's Stones on this effort. Decent, but not top tier, of what is a great album- 7
If You Want Blood- As great as this AC/DC classic is, I still consider it the 3rd best on the album. Sternum crunching, bad ass 4/4, 3 chords in your face #@$#@$@ 3
Love Hungry Man- Unique, pseudo-balladry at its most subdued, at least on AC/DC's terms Angus shreds it again, in what you are realizing is damned great and consistent LP 6
Night Prowler- Someone's got to finish 10th on a 10 song album. Hard core blues that is excellent. It's off tangent status is maybe why I ranked it last. But AC/DC's fans who are bigger blues enthusiast, might have this one in their top 2 or 3. It's all in taste, when you try to review an album this good. 10
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6CwIB6pQoPo (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6CwIB6pQoPo)
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Classic Rock Album of the Day- Allman Brothers- Self Titled (1969) - ***
In honor of the recent death of Dicky Betts, I'd like to cover an LP of maybe what was the pinnacle of American Rock Blues Prowess. Despite the widespread assumption that the Brits had cornered the market on resurrection of American Blues, this particular album shined as a example that the home grown stuff was as good or better than the Brit posers. Sure Clapton, Page, Beck, Mayall were getting all the rock and roll press attention. Deservedly so. But there were sure a few American examples too. Big Brother, ZZ, among others had started forging a path that was as near impactful, and important to music history.
Picking the apt Allman Bro.'s was a simple task. Their debut contains the classical lineup with Both Allmans, Betts, Oaks, and Trucks. It also has that blues rawness that is absent in the subsequent more successful LP's. This is the blues bland white board slate, and no polish. And none of the internal strife or personnel changes that altered the formula. I am not really a big blues fan, but when I do want to hear it, I like the simplistic jammed approach than production values that water the stuff down. The Allmans did a good job of paraphrasing their blues licks in a manner that they came off as plausible covers of the Delta. Vs. Brits who seem to be more inclined to make rock songs with blues bones, tendons, and ligaments. A whole different animal from viewpoint.
Fun Fact: As impactful and great as the debut album was it was one of worst charting in their career. I have a feeling that the '70's purchases did give it an ongoing demand.
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Don't Want You - Spencer Davis remake that is really a little more rock sounding base, but there is no mistaking the fine Duane Allman-Betts blues dueling. Which gives this LP in it's own right standing by that itself. And at face value, Greg's voice comes across more plausible as a blues practioner than his UK counterparts. 4
Not My Cross to Bare- More traditional and heartfelt. I bet Clapton heard this one, and was sold on the Derek and D concept, just on this one alone. 3
Black Hearted Woman- One of my staples from the KAAY Beaker Street Days. A staple of early southern blues rock that would gel as a genre as great bands like Skynrd, and others would appear. Hardest rocker, but enough of a bluez like splash give it enough oomph to say this is new stuff for us on the West side of the Atlantic. The sloppy feel is endearing, on purpose, and gives it it's flair. 2
Trouble No More- Bro's do a nice cover of this Muddy Waters mainstay. Still even this nice piece makes bottom tier status. 6
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Every Hungry Woman- Same meter and feel a bit as Whipping Post. Not near as good though. 7
Dreams- Low flow, and rolling blues that the Brother take it back half a notch, They addtioally stick in some of that hammond back sound that was pretty typical in the 1960's. If there is one knock on side 2, Duanne, and Gregg seem to be relying on a common and repetitive sound that doesn't break away enough from just one desired blues style. 5
Whipping Post- My favorite Allman Brothers song- Love the improv/ rough almost bar like jam that makes this a song of grit, heartfelt blues. Song has that great double dueling guitar and organ sound that hallmarked this band's sound for albums to come. Lot's of tries, but none of them ever came close to this magic. 1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JH7JQxOxEQg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JH7JQxOxEQg)