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

New Riders of the Purple Sage’s Debut LP: Country + Rock + Jerry Garcia = ?

They began as a country-influenced offshoot of the Grateful Dead, but, by the time they recorded this debut, they’d morphed into something else altogether.

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Marvin Gaye’s ‘What’s Going On’: Struggle & Liberation

The album, a landmark release for Motown, remains a monument to Marvin Gaye’s big heart and soul, and a prophecy for our time.

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Cat Stevens’ ‘Teaser and the Firecat’ Deluxe Edition: Review

Even more popular than its predecessor, the multi-platinum album spawned three hit singles: “Peace Train,” “Moonshadow” and “Morning Has Broken.”

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Los Lobos’ ‘Kiko’: A Hallucinatory Masterpiece

The early ’90s release was rightly acclaimed as the band’s studio pinnacle for its thematic breadth and sonic innovation.

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The Grateful Dead’s Eponymous 1971 Live LP—‘Skull & Roses’—Expanded: Review

The album, now doubled in length, includes nods to country, but paints a picture of a more versatile group via funky rock and a return to psychedelia.

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The Beatles’ ‘Let It Be’ Special Edition Review: ‘The Thrill Was Still There’

The set includes 27 previously unreleased jams, rehearsal performances and outtakes, more than enough to justify its purchase.

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John Lennon’s ‘Imagine’ Turns 50: ‘Ultimate Collection’ Review

The original 10-track 1971 album has been expanded for this release to include…well, more than you could have possibly imagined

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Al Stewart’s ‘Year of the Cat’: Musical Cinema

Stewart liked the title track, but didn’t consider it suitable as a single, until producer Alan Parsons and the record company convinced him of its destiny.

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Eric Clapton’s ‘461 Ocean Boulevard’: A Renewal of Confidence & Strength

The 1974 release stands as a milestone within Clapton’s lingering legacy, no small achievement considering the wealth of great music he’s created.

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Tim Buckley Recorded Live in San Francisco, 1968: Review

The singer-songwriter was at his creative peak–his vocals and guitar work are fine throughout–and his band is compelling.

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