Posts From Amy McGrath

Amy McGrath

Amy McGrath started her music journey in 1989 in Boston, writing for the New England regional publication Metronome Magazine. She’s currently a designer, freelance music writer and heads up her Substack newsletter Write Hear: Pop Culture & The Beatles. You can also find her on Bluesky.

Billy Joel: On 1976’s ‘Turnstiles,’ Classic Songs, Unappreciated

Even with songs like “New York State of Mind” and “Say Goodbye to Hollywood,” the album fizzled upon its release

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Oasis’ ‘Definitely Maybe’: The Audacious Debut from the Britpop Behemoths  

The original album has never gone out of style. While the States accepted it with mild trepidation in 1994, the impact was immediate in the U.K.

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The Graham Parker Solo Debut ‘Another Grey Area’: Leaving the Anger Behind

GP was consciously breaking away from his perceived ‘angry’ persona, looking to send out his message in a style he saw fit.

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Genesis’ 1991 Blockbuster ‘We Can’t Dance’: Phil’s Farewell

It’s a significant album in the band’s discography, showcasing their ability to craft hit songs with broad appeal.

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ELO’s ‘Xanadu’ Soundtrack With ON-J: Magic, All Over the World

With music from two popular acts, the soundtrack more than survived the 1980 film’s mixed reviews.

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Journey ‘Escape’: When the Fans Really Started Believin’

This is a curious chapter in rock history, as one of a few select albums that defines listener taste, consumer spending and chart success.

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George Harrison’s ‘Living in the Material World’: Is It Underrated?

He said at the time, “I wouldn’t really care if no one ever heard of me again. I just want to play and make records.”

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