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
Free: ‘Fire and Water’—More Than Just All Right
The album featured one of rock’s all-time classics in “All Right Now,” but there was much more to Free’s ferocious-yet-controlled ethic
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The Byrds’ ‘Mr. Tambourine Man’ LP—A Folk Rock Manifesto
With worthwhile covers, solid originals and no filler, the LP sustained a level of quality that invited favorable comparison with their heroes, the Beatles.
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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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David Bowie’s ‘Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars’: Glam-Rock Goes Global
The album didn’t only elevate Bowie’s career. It influenced many artists and kickstarted the entire punk movement.
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The Bee Gees’ ‘Main Course’: The Turning Point
Just when it seemed as if their career might be over, the brothers Gibb drastically altered their style. They would soon find out what success really was!
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Rod Stewart’s Unequaled, Magical Masterpiece
His second solo album showcased an artist who excelled at both rollicking rock ‘n’ roll and tender, emotive ballads
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Delaney and Bonnie ‘Accept No Substitute’: White Soul Born in Turmoil
A beautiful album, close to perfection in the playing and singing, it was helmed by a married couple whose own relationship was falling apart at the seams.
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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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David Bowie’s Berlin Trilogy: ‘Low,’ ‘Heroes’ and ‘Lodger’
All three albums are now hailed as milestones in his dazzling career, and a marked influence on other artists, including King Crimson
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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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