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
Graham Nash’s ‘Songs for Beginners’: Taking Center Stage
His stunning solo debut, arriving when CSNY was in flux, exemplified Nash’s ability to navigate the divide between desire and despair.
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The Shining Debut of Quicksilver Messenger Service
Years of playing and professionalism produced one of the era’s best records, whose sheer musicality shines as brightly today.
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Peter Gabriel ‘So’ Album: Into the Mainstream
At the start of sessions, no one could predict that the quirky former Genesis frontman would produce an album that would sell a zillion copies.
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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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“What’s Shakin’”: The LP That Featured Pre-Fame Clapton, Winwood, Butterfield & Spoonful
Little known at the time of its release, the album proved to be a significant repository of rare recordings by acts that were still on the rise.
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Paul Simon ‘There Goes Rhymin’ Simon’: American Tunes
With classic songs such as “American Tune,” “Kodachrome” and “Loves Me Like a Rock,” his third solo album sealed his reputation as a major solo artist.
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Jethro Tull—’Aqualung’: The Ultimate Concept Album
It proved successful, with the rock press heralding the album for its variety, seriousness and the unmatched musicianship.
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Steely Dan ‘The Royal Scam’: Rock on a Grand Scale
The 1976 LP proved divisive, augmenting the leaner ensemble core of prior albums with more aggressive ensemble arrangements.
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Dave Edmunds’ ‘Tracks on Wax 4’: In the Spirit
He told a journalist, “Three-minute singles with a bit of feeling and class, were what we based Rockpile on.”
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Dave Mason: ‘Alone Together’—Colorful Throughout
It’s often remembered for its multi-colored marble vinyl, but the former Traffic member’s solo debut also contained some of his finest songs
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