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
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.
Read More
Chicago’s Eclectic Debut Album: With Authority
Their speedy ascent was fueled by a landmark debut that made an immediate splash with critics and listeners, but it was more than a hit record.
Read More
Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass’ Swinging ‘Whipped Cream…’
The faux mariachi-style LP spent three years on the charts and appealed to seemingly every category of record buyer.
Read More
Psychedelic Furs’ ‘Talk Talk Talk’: More Than Just ‘Pretty in Pink’
With its raw energy and Richard Butler’s distinctive, darkly romantic vocals, the 1981 album pushed the band beyond its initial post-punk sound.
Read More
Manassas: Stephen Stills’ Finest (Solo) Hour
Stills’ third full-length as leader showcased a collaborative ensemble flexible enough to cover a broad stylistic palette.
Read More
‘Katy Lied’ @ 50—Steely Dan Retreats to the Studio
Stepping off the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium stage on July 5, 1974, Walter Becker and Donald Fagen closed the books on Steely Dan as a live band. An earlier tour had left both exhausted and Fagen’s voice shredded, prompting an
Read More
Willie Nelson ‘Stardust’: Reimagining the American Songbook
His record label was reluctant to issue it, but the album defied expectations and revived interest in the classic songwriting of the mid-20th century.
Read More
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.”
Read More
On the Menu: ‘Breakfast in America’ From Supertramp
The band had enjoyed steady growth with their first 5 albums. That all changed in 1979 with this blockbuster release which became one of the year’s top sellers.
Read More
ZZ Top ‘Eliminator’: Hot-Rods, TV Dinners and Sharp-Dressed Men
The music is stellar, and the LP became a massive hit, selling 10 million copies and staying on the Billboard album chart for three years.
Read More