Album Rewinds

Given the test of time and the wisdom of hindsight, how do significant albums from the past sound and play today? Our critics take a second look from a fresh perspective

Paul Simon ‘There Goes Rhymin’ Simon’: American Tunes

With classic songs such as “American Tune,” “Kodachrome” and “Loves Me Like a Rock,” Simon’s third solo album sealed his reputation as a major solo artist

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Jethro Tull—’Aqualung’: The Ultimate Concept Album

‘Aqualung’ proved successful, with the rock press heralding the album for its variety, seriousness and the unmatched musicianship.

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John Fogerty’s ‘Blue Ridge Rangers’: One-Man Band

With CCR having called it a day, Fogerty entered the studio alone and put together an album’s worth of tributes to his country, gospel and bluegrass heroes.

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‘Electric Mud’: When Muddy Waters Went Psychedelic

While the album would find itself the object of critical scorn, it served its purpose: introducing a new generation to blues.

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J. Geils Band’s ‘Live—Blow Your Face Out’ Revisited

It wasn’t their first live album, but ‘Blow Your Face Out’ took the band’s manic rock ‘n’ soul energy to another level entirely.

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Bill Withers, ‘Live at Carnegie Hall’: Soul Preachin’

He’d never even planned for a career in music. Before long, he found himself on stage at one of the most prestigious performance venues in the world.

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Roger Daltrey and His 1973 Solo Debut: Doing A Favor

He wasn’t even planning on recording a solo album. But one thing led to another and soon The Who’s lead singer found himself with 10 songs of his own.

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Dr. John’s ‘Gumbo’: A New Orleans Master’s Thesis

For the sessions, instead of his own new material, he breathed authentic life into lively new versions of hometown classics.

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Deep Purple ‘Machine Head’: Rockin’ in Montreux

The 1972 album, cut by their classic lineup, made them big stars, and they soon toured the world. And there was much more to it than “Smoke on the Water.”

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The Doors’ ‘L.A. Woman’: Last Call

The Doors’ sixth and final studio LP re-energized the band through a return to their roots in American blues, and served as a tribute to their hometown.

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