I am saddened by the demise of the album. Yes, I know that acts are still releasing CDs (even these seem to be going the way of the album, because of downloads). What I mean is that I lament the demise of the classic LP format. You know the thing, twenty minutes a side, first track a barnstormer - 'Brown Sugar' or 'Drive My Car' - side one ending with a reflective song - 'Michelle' or 'Quicksand' - another barnstormer opening side two, then an anthem to finish with - 'Freebird' or 'Bohemian Rhapsody'. I feel that unfortunately, the seventy minute odd format of the CD does not lend itself towards producing the classic album - seventy minutes or so is too long to appreciate an album. Most record companies tend to place the most commercial tracks at the beginning of the CD, followed by filler tracks. Fortunately, some artists are starting to revert to the forty minute format, the brilliant 'Back to Black' being a case in point.
The advent of the i pod is a worrying development. People just download their favourite tracks, so cannot appreciate an album as an entity, as a work of art. Tracks were put in a particular order on LPs for a reason, because they fitted in that way (although strangely, the running order on side 1 of Sgt. Pepper was not the one originally intended). Just downloading tracks in any order is a sad development. Another sad development is the giving away of albums either in Sunday newspapers or on the internet. Giving an album away belittles its value, demeaning its importance.
Anyway, enough of the rant. I have compiled below my top 100 albums. I did a list a few years ago, but had not heard many of the classic albums then. Now, thanks to the advent of the internet, cheaper CDs and the book '1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die', I am able to compile what I feel is my definitive list. I have whittled done my initial list from just over 200 to the selection below - unfortunately good albums such as Joy Division's 'Closer', Paul Simon's 'Gracelands', Nick Drake's 'Bryter Later' and Miles Davis' 'Kind of Blue' just missed the list - so getting into the Top 100 is no mean feat. Not surprisingly, The Beatles and Led Zeppellin have the most entries.
1. Revolver, The Beatles (1966)
Still my favourite, showing the fab four at their creative best. A snapshot of sixties England featuring such characters as 'Eleanor Rigby' and 'Dr.Robert'. 'Tomorrow Never Knows' was unique at the time and still sounds brilliant.
2. Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, The Beatles (1967)
Over the years this album has fallen in and out of favour, but listening to it again recently I realised what a superbly crafted album it is, which has not dated at all. 'Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds' and 'A Day In A Life' are classics.
3. Marquee Moon, Television (1977)
Although this album was a commercial disaster, many recognise it as a masterpiece, including me. The churning, jangling guitars of Tom Verlaine and Richard Lloyd helped define the sound of punk, and later, grunge. 'Friction' and the title track are superb.
4. New Boots and Panties, Ian Dury and the Blockheads (1977)
I can of course relate to everything on this lewd, funny masterpiece. The local references in 'Billericay Dickie' and 'Plaistow Patricia', the description of 'Blockheads' and his touching tribute to his 'Old Man'. Every track is a gem and I never tire of hearing this album.
5. Imperial Bedroom, Elvis Costello (1982)
The other Elvis had experimented with punk, Motown and Country before producing this dark, but compelling work. Enlisting the help of Beatles engineer Geoff Emerick ensured a superbly produced album which contains some of my favourite Costello tracks: 'Shabby Doll','Man Out of Time' and 'Town Cryer' among them.
6. Hunky Dory, David Bowie (1971)
Down from No.2 last time for no particular reason. Probably his most varied album because he was searching for an identity. Thus we find the rocking 'Queen Bitch', the folky 'Song for Bob Dylan' as well as the overblown but brilliant 'Life On Mars'. For me, his strongest collection of songs.
7. Selling England By The Pound, Genesis (1973)
I bought this recently on CD and was knocked out by the quality of playing and the production. Despite its Arthurian, medieval theme in places, the album is actually a scathing comment on strike ridden England at the time. Thus, at the beginning we hear Peter Gabriel ask:
'Can you tell me where my country lies'.
8. Grace, Jeff Buckley (1994)
Why do the good die young? Poor Jeff Buckley met his watery end a mere three years after this was released. Not that he would have recorded anything half as good again. His soaring vocals and guitar playing on such tracks as 'Grace' and 'Lover, You Should've Come Over' are phenomenal, and this album contains my favourite version of Leonard Cohen's 'Hallelujah'.
9, Blue, Joni Mitchell (1971)
Along with John Lennon's first album, this must be the most personal album ever. We hear a Joni homesick for California during a trip to Europe, we hear about her love for her 'Old Man' and her regretting a lost love on 'A Case of You'. A melancholy album but starkly beautiful.
10. Pet Sounds, The Beach Boys (1966)
Just as 'Rubber Soul' saw the Beatles mature into confident, analytical songwriters, such was the case here for The Beach Boys, or rather Brian Wilson. As well as angst ridden songs such as 'Caroline No' and 'I Just Wasn't Made For These Times', the album features possibly the finest love song ever, 'God Only Knows', which was written for brother Carl Wilson.
11. Bookends, Simon & Garfunkel (1968)
The most intelligent of S & G's albums. Side one has a sort of 'Seven Ages of Man' theme, including the superb 'America' and 'Old Friends'. Side two is more upbeat, featuring 'Mrs. Robinson' and 'Hazy Shade of Winter'.
12. Let It Bleed, The Rolling Stones (1970)
After much soul searching, I've decided that this has to be my favourite Stones album. Every track - even the country style 'Honky Tonk Women' - is a gem. The demise of Brian Jones is illustrated here, he is only credited on two songs, percussion on 'Midnight Rambler' and autoharp on 'I Got the Silver'. Includes my favourite Stones track, 'Gimme Shelter'.
13. Deja Vu, Crosby Stills Nash & Young (1970)
This offering from the world's first supergroup should never have worked. Crosby was grief stricken, Young was disinterested and Stills was out of it. It was left to Graham Nash to pull it all together. Surprisingly, the resulting album is very enjoyable. Not surprisingly, Neil Young's contributions, 'Helpless' and 'Country Girl', are the best tracks. Their rocking version of Joni Mitchell's 'Woodstock' is sublime.
14. The Queen Is Dead, The Smiths (1984)
The most accomplished album of their prolific career. 'Now It's Over' is a heart wrenching love song, 'Bigmouth Strikes Again' one of the bands catchiest numbers and Morrisey's humour shines through on 'Frankly Mr. Shankly' and 'Cemetery Gates'.
15. Nevermind, Nirvana (1991)
Possibly the most influential album of the nineties, spawning a host of imitators. Very dark but very listenable. 'Smells Like Teen Spirit' and 'Come as You Are' are great anthems to disillusioned youth. 'Polly', about a kidnapped girl, is disturbing, as if Freddie Kruger were fronting a band.
16. The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust & The Spiders from Mars, David Bowie (1972)
When this came out, it sounded like nothing I had heard before. Slick and theatrical, this was the future of Rock n'Roll. The second side, which is almost continuous, is one of the great second side's of all time (along with 'Abbey Road', of course). 'Suffragette City' and 'Starman' are two of my favourite Bowie tracks.
17. Exodus, Bob Marley (1977)
Recorded in London following the assassination attempt on Bob Marley, this is the most commercial of the great man's albums, producing five hit singles. 'Natural Mystic' and the title track are my favourites here.
18. Never Mind The Bollocks, Sex Pistols (1977)
According to your point of view, The Pistols were either talentless three-chord wonders or a threat to civilisation. Nevertheless, even though they may have been lacking in musical skill, they still managed to produce one of the most dynamic albums of all time. 'Bodies' is frightening in its venomous intensity and 'Anarchy In The UK' is a rallying cry for youth to revolt (they never did, of course).
19. Wish You Were Here, Pink Floyd (1975)
My favourite Floyd album, mainly because of the superb 'Shine On You Crazy Diamond', a tribute to Syd Barrett. These multi-millionaire musicians have another 'pop' at the music industry in 'Have A Cigar' (the music executive asking 'Which one's pink' really did happen). Much preferable to the good, but over theatrical 'Dark Side Of The Moon'.
20. Horses, Patti Smith (1975)
Patti rewrote the definition of the female artist. No more pretty dresses and dreamy love songs,this album details yearning for wealth ('Free money') and love ('Break It up') .Includes a superb version of Van Morrison's 'Gloria'.
21. Moondance, Van Morrison (1970) After the intense 'Astral Weeks' Van produced what is arguably his most accessible album. Side 1 in particular, which includes the jazzy title track and the beautiful 'Into the Mystic', is as perfect a side as you can get.The gospell inspired 'Brand New Day' is also very good. Van's best album.
22. Court and Spark, Joni Mitchell (1973) After the reflective 'Blue' Joni produced this more upbeat homage to love. Included are singles that were successful in America, including the brilliant 'Free Man In Paris' - an affectionate tribute to David Geffin - and the rocking 'Raised On Robbery'. 'Down To You' is one of her most beautiful love song.
23. Blood On The Tracks, Bob Dylan (1975)
After a lean period - remember 'Planet Waves' - the rock messiah produced this superb album, which dealt starkly with his matrimonial problems at the time. 'Idiot Winds', for example, is a vitriolic attack on his soon to be ex-partner. Apart from this, I love the brilliant wild west fable 'Lily, Rosemary and the Jack of Hearts', which just bounces along, speeding up as it goes.
24. Darkness On The Edge Of Town, Bruce Springsteen (1978)
After the upbeat, commercial 'Born to Run', the Boss produced the first of his 'social commentary' albums, which remains my favourite Bruce album. In tracks such as 'Factory' he describes the misery of the factory worker, in 'Streets of Fire' he describes the working man's violent struggles. It is not all doom and gloom, 'Racing In The Streets' describes the joy of cruising in an automobile.
25. London Calling, The Clash (1979)
A rambling, mish mash of rockabilly ('Brand New Cadillac'), reggae ('Rudy's Not Here') and sheer anger ('Guns of Brixton','London Calling'), this double album nevertheless works. For me,the most enjoyable, accessible Clash album.
26. Led Zeppelin IV, Led Zeppelin (1971)
The first appearance of many from The Sons of Valhalla. Perhaps not as high as it could have been because I've never been that fond of 'The Battle of Evermore' or 'Four Sticks'. 'Rock and Roll' and 'Black Dog' still sound superb though, and what is that other anthem the album contains? Something about stairs?
27. Exile On Main Street, Rolling Stones (1972)
Like 'London Calling' or 'The Beatles', another rambling mess which the Stones apparently hated. Despite this, it features some of their greatest tracks, such as 'Tumbling Dice' , 'Happy' and the anthemic 'Shine A Light'. In many critics eyes, their greatest album.
28. Rubber Soul, The Beatles (1965)
This was the album when the Beatles stopped being a pop group and became serious musicians. Much overlooked, its features their first song not about love ('Nowhere Man', a cry for help from John), a tender recollection of earlier Liverpool days ('In My Life') and the Dylanesque 'Girl' and 'Norwegian Wood'. George's songwriting also comes to the fore on 'If I Needed Someone'.
29. Forever Changes, Love (1967)
A commercial flop, this album remains one of the Summer of Loves most enjoyable offerings. You can almost smell the drugs on gems such as 'Alone Again Or' and 'You Set The Scene'. Full of obscure lyrics and weird orchestration, it still sounds great.
30. My Aim Is True, Elvis Costello (1972)
At the height of punk there appeared this bespectacled geek who went on to become one of Britain's finest songwriters. This debut album, without the yet to be formed Attractions, is a snarling tour de force, combining rockabilly influences ('Mystery Dance') with an anti-fascist rant ('Less Than Zero') and one of the finest bitter sweet love songs, 'Alison'.
31. Pretzel Logic, Steely Dan (1974)
Steely Dan were the smart arsed rock band. Coming from nowhere and producing witty albums fusing jazz/rock/funk/blues...everything. They weren't even a band, just Donald Fagen,Walter Becker and a load of session musicians. Of their many superb albums this is the most acomplished and very easy on the ears. 'Rikki Don't Lose That Number' is a rock classic, as is 'Any Major Dude Will Tell You'. There's even a tribute to Duke Ellington on the quirky 'East St.Louis Toodle-Oo'.
32.Close To The Edge, Yes (1972)
Without doubt the most Prog. Rock of Prog. Rock albums. Yes had the audacity to record the album in a classical music format. Not for them a series of three minutes tunes. No, side one -'Close To The Edge' - was presented as a symphony full of gothic organ and fusion jazz solos , and great it sounds to. Even my dad, not known for his love of popular music, loved it.
33. Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs, Derek and The Dominoes (1970)
Recorded at a time when Uncle Eric was wracked with pain over his unrequited love for Patti Boyd - hence 'Layla' - this remains one of the great blues jamming albums. 'Key to the Highway' sounds like some friends just got together and jammed. 'Bellbottom Blues' and 'Keep On Growing' are two of my favourite Clapton tracks.
34. The Joshua Tree, U2 (1987) - The album that launched Bono and the boys into the stratosphere and their most 'American' sounding album. The first three tracks - ' Where the Streets Have No Name','I Still Haven't Found what I'm Looking For' and 'With or Without You' - were all massive hits, as was 'In God's Country'. For me, their best album, made before they went too far up their own backsides.
35. Sign Of The Times, Prince (1987)
After various name changes - 'Dream Factory', 'Crystal Ball' - this double album finally appeared in 1987. Prince dabbles in various genres, funk on 'Housequake' and 'It's Gonna Be A Beautiful Night', easy listening on 'Slow Love', social comment on the title track; but it works. Certainly his finest album, if not his most commercially successful.
36. Parklife, Blur (1994)
As with 'New Boots and Panties', I can relate to the local references on this very British album. Walton-on-the Naze gets a mention ('Tracy Jacks'), as does the shipping forecast ('This Is A Low'). Phil Daniels is great on the brilliant title track. Possibly the best 'Britpop' album.
37. Plastic Ono Band, John Lennon (1970)
Famously, John's Primal Scream album and the most personal ever. A soul laid bare. He asks why his mother left him. He dismisses himself on 'Working Class Hero' and ends the album by stating that he does not believe in anything but 'Yoko and me, that's reality'. The final track, 'My Mummy's Dead', sang in a childlike voice, even makes you feel sorry for the icon.
38. The Hissing Of Summer Lawns, Joni Mitchell (1974)
A strange pot-pourri of an album, incorporating African Rhythms ('The Jungle Line') Jazz ('Harry's Song') and pop ('On France They Kiss On Main Street'). This is the album that saw Joni cement her reputation as one of the great songwriters.
39. Ogden's Nut Gone Flake, The Small Faces (1968) A curious album. It originally came packaged in a replica of a tobacco tin (presumably not only used for containing Golden Virginia). Side one is an assortment of classic Small Faces tracks, such as 'Afterflow','Song of a Baker' and 'Lazy Sunday'. Side two is a sort of concept piece, narrated by Stanley Unwin, about 'Happiness Stan'. Weird, but brilliant.
40. Avalon Sunset, Van Morrison (1989) The album on which Van discovered religion and lush string arrangements. An inconsistant album; but the good tracks - such as 'Have I Told You Lately', 'Orangefield' and 'These Are The Days' - are very good.
41. Pills n' Thrills and Bellyaches, Happy Mondays (1990)
If any album represents the dance crazed, drug taking Madchester era of the 90s, it is this one. The title is a reference to the bands life style at the time. 'God's Cop' - which should have been a single - is about Police chief James Anderton, who believed that God was on his side; 'Loose Fit' is a comment on the clothing styles (flared trousers) at the time and there is an excellent version of John Konga's 'We're Gonna Step On You Again'. Although they ripped off everything from 'Lady Marmalade' to Stretch's 'Why Did You Do That', it remains a very enjoyable listen.
42. The Who Sell Out, The Who (1968)
Although not as successful as 'Tommy', the follow up, I feel that this is a more enjoyable album. A sort of concept album, examining the relationship between music and advertising, the songs on this quirky album are interspersed with adverts ('Beanz Meanz Heinz') and Pirate Radio jingles. The music is some of the Who's finest, including the live anthem 'I Can See For Miles' and the Byrdlike 'Mary With The Shaky Hand'. The final track 'Rael' is a mini rock opera.
43. The Stone Roses, Stone Roses (1989)
Whereas 'Pills n'Thrills' was an upfront, dance orientated celebration of the 'Madchester' scene, this was a dreamier, more low key affair. Obviously inspired by groups such as The Byrds, many of the tracks have a sixties guitar dominated feel. 'I Wanna Be Adored' and 'I Am The Resurrection' are the stand out tracks.
44. What's Going On, Marvin Gaye (1971)
Allegedly inspired by Marvin's brother's horror stories from Vietnam, the 'Troubled Man' had developed his song writing skills to deliver this scathing critique on war ('What's Going On), inner city deprivation (Inner City Blues') and - before it was fashionable - damage to the environment ('Mercy, Mercy Me'). The title track is a masterpiece which never even charted as a single.
45. Stand, Sly and the Family Stone (1969) A seminal album, which was to influence the likes of Prince and the whole hip hop movement. Features some of Sly's best tracks, such as 'I Wanna Take You Higher' (a great Woodstock highlight) and 'Everyday People'
46.Highway 61 Revisited, Bob Dylan (1965)
Arguably the most controversial album ever, prompting those 'Judus' cries. He had dipped his toe in the electric waters on half of 'Bringing It All Back Home' six months earlier of course. But this was a full blown, 'enough of the acoustic stuff', Rock n' Roll album. 'Like A Rolling Stone' and 'Ballad Of A Thin Man' are two of the great man's many masterpieces.
47. Otis Blue, Otis Redding (1965)
Mr. Pitiful's greatest album, featuring two songs by Otis' mentor, Sam Cooke ('Change Is Gonna Come' and 'What A Wonderful World') as well as the finest version of Smokey Robinson's 'My Girl' and even a damn good version of 'Satisfaction'.
48. Songs In The Key Of Life, Stevie Wonder (1976)
Despite being an overblown monster, this is my favourite Stevie Wonder album. It is the diversity of the album - Jazz on 'Sir Duke', the samba tinged 'As', even the syruppy 'Isn't She Lovely - that I like. In my opinion, the last great album he recorded.
49. Led Zeppelin, Led Zeppelin (1969)
The Mighty Zep hit the ground running on their initial offering. Check out the mighty bass line and manic guitar solo on 'Dazed and Confused' or the staccatto riff on 'Communication Breakdown', and of course old blues numbers like 'You Shock Me' and 'I Can't Quit You Baby' get the heavy Led Zep makeover.
50. Sweetheart Of The Rodeo, The Byrds (1968)
Not the first country rock album, but certainly one of the most influential. Recorded at a time when Country music was seen as the music of the redneck, The Byrds demonstrated that Americans should be proud of their musical heritage. They dipped into the songbooks of Merle Haggard, The Louvin Brothers and Woody Guthrie to produce a sincere, enjoyable tribute. My favourite is Charlie McDaniel's 'You're Still On My Mind'.
51. After The Gold Rush, Neil Young (1970) Possibly Shakey's most introspective, and beautiful album. The title track is one of the most beautiful songs written, 'Only Love Can Break Your Heart' one of the saddest. The venomous 'Southern Man' - which prompted a response from 'Lynnard Skynnard on 'Sweet Home Alabama' - is an exception to the album's gentle feel.
52. Sticky Fingers, The Rolling Stones (1971)
The Stones third album of their Golden Period, and the first on their own label, the boys incorporate help from the likes of Nicky Hopkins and Billy Preston to record such gems as 'Brown Sugar' and 'Can You Hear Me Knocking'. 'Sister Morphine', co-written with Marianne Faithful, is one of the most poignant anti-drugs songs ever.
53. Born In The USA, Bruce Springsteen (1984)
The album that propelled The Boss to superstardom, mainly because of the catchiness of most of the songs, although behind most of the snappy tunes were more sinister lyrics. Thus, 'Born In The USA' is a tirade against the war in Vietnam rather than a jingoistic anthem, 'I'm On Fire' is about sexual lust and 'Dancing In The Dark' is about the pressures of having to write a hit.
54. Bridge Over Troubled Water, Simon & Garfunkel (1970)
The cracks were beginning to show when this album was released. 'So Long, Frank Lloyd Wright' was a bitter sweet homage to Art Garfunkel, as was 'The Only Living Boy In New York'. 'The Boxer', with its Dylanesque imagery, remains one of Paul Simon's greatest song, and as for the title track....
55. Beggars Banquet, Rolling Stones (1968)
After the 'Satanic Majesties' fiasco, the boys got back to doing what they did best: Rock and Blues. To prove the point, this is arguably their most 'rootsy' album, featuring the very bluesy 'No Exceptations' and 'Prodigal Son' as well as the downright dirty 'Stray Cat Blues'. Civil unrest at the time is mirrored in 'Street Fighting Man'.
56. Are You Experienced, Jimi Hendrix (1967)
One of the great debut albums of all time, which did not even include the Maestro's first three singles. There is no fat on this album: every track, from 'Foxy Lady' to 'Are You Experienced' is brilliant Hendrix. I love 'Fire' and 'I Don't Live Today'.
57. All Mod Cons, The Jam (1978)
After the disastrous 'Modern World' Paul Weller got his act together on The Jam's third album. Every song is an ode to English life.'In The Crowd' and 'Down In The Tube Station at Midnight' are classics. The most beautiful, endearing track, 'English Rose', was not even mentioned on the sleeve (the first hidden track perhaps).
58. Hard Day's Night, The Beatles (1964)
The first self-penned album from the Beatles and the soundtrack (side one) to a brilliant film. Contains such classics as 'I Should Have Known Better' and, tucked away on side two, 'Things We Said Today'. Also includes 'Can't Buy Me Love' as well as 'And I Love Her'.
59. Bringing It All Back Home, Bob Dylan (1965)
Fed up with Woody Guthrie style protest songs, yer man kicks off with 'Subterranean Homesick Blues' - a Chuck Berry rip off - 'She Belongs To Me' and 'Maggies's Farm'. To keep the traditionalists happy he also features 'Gates Of Eden' and the haunting 'That's Alright Ma, I'm Only Bleeding'. Amazing to think that in the space of a a year Dylan had released three of the greatest albums of all time.
60. Imagine, John Lennon (1971)
The most successful of John Lennon's solo album's and certainly more accessible than 'Plastic Ono Band'. Apart from the iconic title track, it features a scathing attack on Paul - 'How Do You Sleep' - a scathing attack on American politics - 'Gimme Some Truth' - as well as some of the great man's tenderest love songs - 'Jealous Guy' and 'Love'.
61. Different Class, Pulp (1995)
After 15 years languishing in the nether regions of stardom, Abricus Pulp - now called just Pulp - hit the jackpot with 'Common People'. The resulting album is one of the best albums of the nineties, featuring such Britpop classics as 'Disco 2000' and 'Sorted For E's and Wizz'. What makes the album special is Jarvis Cocker's laconic vocals.
62. Born To Run, Bruce Springsteen (1975)
After releasing two average albums, The Boss hit the jackpot with this no nonsense stadium rock barnstormer. Apart from the anthemic title track, there are such Brucie bonuses here as 'Tenth Avenue Freeze Out', 'Thunder Road' and, of course, the anthemic 'Jungleland'.
63. Dare!,The Human League (1981)
Possibly the best album to come out of the techno scene of the early eighties. Remaining Human League member Phil Oakey recruited two Sheffield schoolgirls to record this brilliant album. 'Don't You Want Me ', despite spawning millions of karaoke imitations, remains a brilliant pop song, as does 'Love Action'. 'Seconds' is a lament to the untimely end of John Lennon.
64. Physical Grafitti, Led Zeppelin (1975)
The mighty Zep's first album on their own label is an unweildy behemoth encompassing folk ('Bron-yr-Aur') bubblegum pop ('Down By The Seaside) the mystical ('Kashmir) as well as the normal staples of rock ('Custard Pie') and blues ('In My Time of Dying'). A very enjoyable mish mash.
65. The Beatles, The Beatles (1968)
Commonly known as The White Album. Although slated by critics when it first appeared (after all, it did follow 'Sargeant Pepper') it is now recognised as something of a classic. 'While My Guitar Gently Weeps' is possibly Harrison's best song. Other classics here include 'Happiness Is A Warm Gun' and 'Dear Prudence'. This pot pourri of different styles is completely at odds with the contrived structure of 'Pepper'.
66. Back to Black, Amy Winehouse (2006)
Although much derided in the gutter press, Amy Winehouse is without doubt a musical genius, and possibly has the finest British female voice since Dusty. This album has a clever sixties feel to it, thus the intro to the title track sounds like 'Baby Love' and 'Love is a Losing Game' could be the theme from an early Bond film. 'You Know That I'm No Good' adds fuel to Amy's bad girl image.
67. The Clash, The Clash (1977)
The most significent album of punk. In which our disillusioned heroes vent their spleens on everything from police brutality ('Police and Thieves'), civil unrest ('White Riot') and youth unemployment ('Career Opportumities').
68. Alladin Sane, David Bowie (1973)
The most theatrical and campest Bowie album, our hero is stuck in some futuristic nightmare. Where the inhabitants have to 'read up a book' to make love ('Drive In Saturday') and where there are street riots ('Panic In Detroit'). The only weak point is the slightly fey version of the Stones 'Let Spend the Night Together'.
69. Dark Side Of The Moon, Pink Floyd (1974)
The album that blasted The Floyd to superstardom. A morose, cynical uptake on such topics as war ('Us and Them'), capitalism ('Money') and insanity ('Brain Damage'). It may have made you want to slit your wrists but was addictively beautiful. Everyone bought a copy and it stayed in the charts for years.
70. Ragged Glory, Neil Young & Crazy Horse (1990)
'Shakey', as he is known to his friends, went from being reflective singer-songwriter to Grandfather of Grunge. This barnstorming album almost runs on feed back. 'Over and Over' is a classic, as are the ten minute plus 'Love To Burn' and 'Love and Only Love'. No moody ballads on this offering.
71. Definately Maybe, Oasis (1994)
One of the most striking debut albums ever. Despite blatently ripping off such songs as 'I'd like to Teach the World to Sing' ('Shakermaker') and 'Get It On' ('Gigarettes and Alcohol'), it remains a very enjoyable album.'Live Forever' has become their live show stopper. Definately, not maybe, Oasis's freshest, most forthright album.
72.Dummy, Portishead (1994)
An offshoot of the Bristol trip hip scene that included Massive Attack and Tricky. This beautiful album features the dark, meloncholic voice of Beth Gibbons. 'Sour Times' sounds as if it could have been included in one of those sixties cold war spy thrillers. The sampling is even acknowledged, with artists as diverse as Johnnie Ray and Isaac Hayes used. Deservedly won the 1994 Mercury Music Prize.
73. Transformer, Lou Reed (1972)
Produced by David Bowie, whose theatrical influence is very much to the fore. Kicks off with the upbeat 'Vicious'. 'Walk On The Wild Side' was the big hit single. 'Satellite of Love' and 'Lovely Day' are classics.
75. OK Computer, Radiohead (1997)
Absurdly, this has been known to top some 'best album' polls, probably compiled by sixth form students. But it is a good album, which blew me away when I first heard it. Although a little over indulgent, 'Karma Police' and 'No Surprises' are great tracks.
76. Blonde On Blond, Bob Dylan (1966)
The final album of Dylan's Golden Period, before his motorcycle accident. The first double album, although you might feel short changed as side four - 'Side Eyed Lady of the Lowlands' - is only about fifteen minutes long. Nevertheless, this album features such pearls as 'Visions of Johanna' (the lyrics of which have been much debated by Dylanologists) and 'I Want You'.
77. Zed Zeppelin III, Led Zeppelin (1970)
The first Led Zep album I discovered. It shows on side two that they were more than just a heavy metal band, with folk songs such as 'Gallows Pole' and 'Bron-yr-Aur Stomp'. Side one is more typical, with the high octane 'Immigrants Song' and my favourite blues track 'Since I've Been Loving You'.
78. Sam's Town, The Killers (2005)
In my view, slightly more accomplished than 'Hot Fuss', which I felt tailed off a little towards the end. This includes such barnstromers as 'When We Were Young', 'Bling', 'Read My Mind' and the curiously pervy 'Bones'. I like the jokey 'Enterlude/Exitlude' idea.
79. You Are The Quarry, Morrisey (2004)
After a hiatus of seven years, the 'Charming Man' produced this worthy offering. The old venom of Morrisey is still evident on tracks such as 'America Is Not the World' and 'The World Is Full of Crashing Bores', but he also shows a more reflective, wistful side on the beautiful 'Come Back to Camden'.
80. Who's Next, The Who (1971)
Originally conceived as 'The Lighthouse Project', this is the album that thrust The Who toward Stadium Rocker Superstardom. 'Barbra O'Reilly' and 'We Won't Get Fooled Again' were Live anthems for years afterwards. 'Behind Blue Eyes' is Pete Townsend's 'Nowhere Man'. Would be higher but for a few weak tracks.
81. Band on the Run, Wings (1973)
Without doubt the best thing McCartney has done post Beatles. On tracks such as 'Jet' and the rollercoster title track we see him at his best. I also love his affectionate tribute to John Lennon, 'Let Me Roll It'. The jokey cover, complete with Parky and Lynchy etc.. is also inspired.
82. The Yes Album, Yes (1971)
After releasing two mediocre albums, Yes came of age with their third album, having perfected three part harmonies and added a heavier organ and guitar sound. Includes their live encores, 'Yours Is No Disgrace' and 'Starship Trooper', as well as 'I've Seen All Good People'.
83. Eliminator, ZZ Top (1983)
Despite having been around for years, los tres hombres finally hit the jacpot with this techno inspired heavy metal offering. The advent of MTV, and their accompanying silly OTT videos ensured that the likes of 'Legs', 'Sharp Dressed Man' and 'Gimme All Your Lovin' would be world wide hits. Great fun, and as they sang 'I got the six, gimme your nine'.
84.Rum, Sodomy and the Lash, The Pogues (1985)
Thanks to the efforts of producer Elvis Costello, this free spirited album is a thing of beauty. Apart from the traditional 'Dirty Old Town' and 'The Band Played Waltzing Matilda' (I defy you to listen without shedding a tear) Shane MacGowen's songwriting skill is shown on 'A Pair of Brown Eyes' and 'The Old Main Drag'.
85. Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, Elton John (1973)
Having originally intended to record this in Jamaica, Elton and team moved to Montreal when the facilities were found to be lacking (hence 'Jamaica Jerk Off'). The resulting album is surely Elton's finest, featuring some of his best tunes:'Candle In The Wind', 'Funeral for a Friend' and 'Saturday Night's Alright for Fighting'.
86. Purple Rain, Prince (1984)
The soundtrack to a semi-autobiographical film, this was Prince's breakthrough album. It features many of his best known songs, such as 'When Doves Cry', 'I Would Die 4 U' and the stunning title track.
87. Debut, Bjork (1993)
A stunning debut from the Icelandic pixie, incorporating disco on tracks such as 'Big Time Sensuality' and 'There's More to Life Than This' (recorded in a club toilet), Modern jazz on 'Aeroplane' and traditional Nordic harp on 'Like Someone In Love'.
88. Fear Of Music, Talking Heads (1979)
After showing slightly psychotic tendencies in their preceding two albums, David Bryne and co. went the whole hog of this album. If the dogs weren't going to get them on 'Animals' it would have been the pollution ('Air'). Superb production from Brian Eno. 'Cities' is my favourite track here.
89. What's The Story Morning Glory, Oasis (1995)
The second of Oasis's two classic albums , this is more polished than its predesessor, more radio friendly. The opening track,'Hello', is a rip off of Garry Glitter's 'Hello,Hello, I'm back Again'. 'Wonderwall' and 'Don't Look Back In Anger' have become classics. 'Champagne Supanova' features some nifty guitar work from Paul Weller.
90. Harvest, Neil Young (1972)
A cynical album, and Young's most commercially successful. Features an ascerbic attack on deep south conservatism on 'Alabama', the anti drug song 'The Needle and the Damage Done', his affectionate tribute to a janitor on 'Old Man' as well as the hit single 'Heart of Gold'. 'Shakey' would not achieve as much success during the seventies again.
91. Led Zeppelin II, Led Zeppelin (1968)
The album that famously displaced 'Abbey Road' at No. 1 in the Billboard chart, thanks mainly to the US hit 'Whole Lotta Love'. Features one of my favourite guitar solos in 'Heartbreaker'. I won't mention the drum solo on 'Moby Dick'. Some of the lyrics in 'The Lemon Song' caused me much amusement as a fourteen year old.
92. Lexicon of Love, ABC (1982)
A Trevor Horn extravegansa, therefore full of swirling strings and big orchestration. Few albums sum up the camp, high octane early eighties better. Almost running as a continuous track, features such gems as 'Poison Ivy', 'Tears Are Not Enough' and the brilliant 'Look of Love'.
93. Bridge of Sighs, Robin Trower (1974) Unfairly labelled as the new Jimi Hendrix (there could only be one Hendrix), Robin Trower's first album has inexplicably been excluded from the '1001 Albums' book. A shame, as it features some barnstorming rock tracks, including 'Too Rolling Stoned' and 'Day of the Eagle', as well as the more cerebral title track.
94. Franz Ferdinand, Franz Ferdinand (2004) Obviously influenced by the likes of Bowie and Roxy Music, this 'art school' album was a massive seller and deserved Mercury Prize winner. The huge hit single was 'Take Me Out'. 'Matinee' and 'Michael' also stand out.
95. Cry Tough, Nils Lofgrin (1974) Springsteen protege Lofgrin showed what a talent he was on this perky album. It includes an interesting version of Dusty's 'I'm Going Back'. I also like 'It's Not A Crime' and 'Jailbait'. Surprisingly, another omission from '1001 Albums'.
96. The Velvet Underground and Nico, Velvet Underground (1967) The one that features the Andy Warhol banana on the cover, this includes such great Lou Reed drug related songs as 'I'm Waiting For The Man' and 'Heroin'. Chantreuse Nico warbles on 'Sunday Morning'. 'European Son' is plain weird.
97. Three Feet High and Rising, De La Soul (1989) Whereas Public Enemy represented the angry, riotous side of rap, these lads were its trippier, happier side. Ingeniously presented as a quiz - complete with stupid contestants - this album samples everything from a linguaphone French course - 'Ecoutez, Repeatez' - to Otis Redding's whistling to Hall and Oates. No end of writs were issued! 'Eye Know' and 'Say No Go' are the highlights here.
98. Joan Armatrading, Joan Armatrading (1973) The best album from one of Britains most talented singer/songwriters. Features the brilliant 'Help Yourself', beautiful 'Save Me' and the classic hit 'Love and Affection'. One to play late at night with a bottle of wine for company.
99. Searching for the Young Soul Rebels, Dexy's Midnight Runner (1980) This album - released when the country was full of optimism following Thatcher's victory - starts with a radio being tuned in, hits you straight between the eyes with 'Burn It Down' and the brash, horn-filled pace hardly relents. 'Geno', 'Seven Days Too Long' and the finale, 'There, There My Dear', are classics. Heralded the 'bling,bling, let's make it big and brash' eighties.
100. Rumours, Fleetwood Mac (1977) Probably the album that has washed the most dirty linen in public: John and Christine were splitting up, as were Lindsay and Stevie etc...etc... Amongst the vitriol they produced some great songs: 'Go You Own Way', 'Don't Stop' - all mega hits, and of course the famous guitar bit at the end of 'The Chain'. Shifted millions and was a fixture in every (usually female) students bedroom.
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