are:
how will I laugh tomorrow , and into the mirror black...
WOW...
Arrival by Abba / 1976
Review by: ed
This was the album which established Abba as one of the world's supergroups. Their earlier works - Abba and Waterloo - were good albums but they didn't demonstrate what was to become the Abba sound. The Greatest Hits Album was released prior to Arrival, but it contained, paradoxically few hits, as least by UK and US standards. Fernando was the one exception, and this had been added as an afterthought.
Greatest Hits was a great album, nonetheless, and it was hugely successful. But it was Arrival which was to change the way Abba was perceived by the listening public. Greatest Hits was Schlager and Folksy, Arrival was pure pop with meaingful lyrics and sound rythms.
Featuring tracks such as Dancing Queen, Money Money Money and Knowing Me Knowing You, it's easy to see why this album was so popular. Dancing Queen was a huge worldwide success, blending classical orchestral sounds with modern pop and cathcy lyrics. Money Money Money owed more to the north European marching tradition and brought discussion of serious issues - money - to the pop buying public.
Knowing me Knowing You> showed the groups serious side. Whether auto-biographical or not, no-one knows, but future problems between the 'happy' couples certainly meant that the lyrics could be understood in new ways. The video releases for these songs are classics in themsleves, especially Knowing me Knowing You. Abba were early adopters of the video release, due to their dislike of promotional touring. Arrival contains other numbers that weren't released as singles, but which could quite easily have stood their place among others in the singles charts. That's me is a reflective song about looking for true love, while Why did it have to be me is a witty song discussing the frivolities of relationships. Tiger is a pop/rock song talking about city life and the dangers in it.
Abba Arrival is a classic album reflecting ideas and concerns of the 70s which are still relevant today. If you've bought Abba Gold you'll be familiar with the singles from this album. Even although, it's worth buying for the non-singles.
Bad Company by Bad Company / 1974 (?)
Review by: Jessie's Girl
Great driving music. That's what Bad Company is. Switching between hard rockers like "Can't Get Enough" to beautiful songs like "Seagull" is a breeze for Paul Rodgers. He and Mick Ralphs write some of the essential early 70s songs here and they NEVER seem to get tired sounding. I simply LOVE this to death. (sorry Alice)
Broken English by Marianne Faithfull / 1978
Review by: Mr. media
Mick Jagger's ex takes the mike and maskes sure some heads roll. In this album she paves the way for people like Alanis Morisette and Jennifer Trynin as she describes life with addictions, being a groupie, and spousal infidelity. the first album that Peter Gabriel said "described adult relationships in adult terms" comes on with Steve Winwood's synthesizers and reminds you that lyrics aren't all about sockhops and puppy love.
Buckingham Nicks by Buckingham Nicks / 1972
Review by: Mr. Media
people have long praised Rumours for its amazing originality and bare-breasted emotion, but after you hear this album, you'll be reluctant if you don't think of Rumours and cringe. Most of "buckingham nicks" is sheer, unbridled emotion and desire. This album does not have the kind of production polish like "rumours" or "fleetwood mac", but we get stronger songwriting. "Crying in the Night" kicks off the album and reveals Nicks' fascination with golddiggers. "Crystal" is pure Buckingham genius, using a waltz pattern and woodwinds sophisticate the album. And that is one of the virtues of it, that it starts out on such simple notes but quickly escalates into beautiful symphonies ("Frozen Love") and Spanish guitars ("Long Distance Winner"). I had to scour the globe to find this album, but it was worth every red cent. For an album that makes Rumours seem like a spat, go out and get this one. NOW!!!!
Buckingham Nicks by Buckingham Nicks / 1972
Review by: adam Schmidt
the nude cover says it best "here we are:take it or leave it". They totally rock with a freedom that isn't found in their later records. lindsay's guitar is better than the best beer buzz and her vocals romanticize even the toughest aspects of love. play this one when you want to work out.
But Seriously Folks... by Joe Walsh / 1978
Review by: Pete Roberts
Joe Walsh, (member of The Eagles) another great band of the 70s, goes solo on this great mellow rock album. The album is more of an EP than a full circle rock n' roll romp. It conveys feelings of summertime blues, humor and memories of yesterday. The albums last track "Lifes Been Good" a classic rock favorite is sort of a "Life in the Fast Lane" part 2. If you like Walsh's earlier work with the James Gang and his great guitar playing, check out this one.
The Cars by The Cars / 1978
Review by: Jessie's Girl
What more could you want in a debut album ? With tracks like "My Best Friend's Girl" and "Just What I Needed", the Cars and producer Roy Thomas Baker (of Queen fame), have given a shot of out of this world rock at the height of disco schlock. These two and all the other tracks make up an album that no one else has immitated since and no had tried before. Unfortunately, the Cars never beat it either - even Heartbeat City is only 2nd best after this one. Old technology yes, dated, no.
Every Picture Tells A Story by Rod Stewart / 1971
Review by: Jessie's Girl
It's hard to believe he's still the same artist. Unlike his current CRAP, this album is superb. Rod "left" his band the Faces, and then took half of them back to record this solo album. His song selection was excellent, from the title song, to his covers of the Temptations "I'm Losing You" and Tim's Hardin's 'Reason to Believe". There's an energy here that combined with pounding re-historic musicianship works wonders and creates an album that all other future Rod Stewart albums are dismissed by. If you can't stand to hear "Maggie Mae" again, then skip it and enjoy the rest.
Foghat Live by Foghat /
Review by: Dan
This album is the must have album from the 70's every body had this 8 track in there car constantly playing. (Recently the lead singer to foghat died) Do you remember "slow ride" the live version is a lot better then the studio, honey hush sound like train kept a rollin by aerosmith but it is different ( a little). Buy it you will like it!
Fragile by Yes / 1972
Review by: Jarret McCaw
Call it art rock or Prog rock or whatever you want. But if you like instrumental breaks that swirl out of speakers, then you'll call this album great. The perfect balance is struck between melody and incredible musicianship. Later Yes albums would bore us to tears as the noodling would be taken to new excessive and nauseating heights. But on Fragile, Anderson, Wakeman, Bruford et al, got it right. Two minute songs team up with ten minute magnificence ("Heart of the Sunrise" for example). The album explores classical overtones without bordering on the ridiclous.
Highway to Hell by AC/DC / 1979
Review by: Jarret McCaw
No offence to current day AC/DC, but this is all you need. By this album, the style has already been perfected and as vocalist, Bon Scott can't be beat. The opening crunch of "Highway to Hell", the spooky 'Night Prowler", "If you Want Blood" etc.etc. The power chords are prefect and are set to inspire every metal band from now on. Every other AC/DC record is still good, but after this one, they're all rehashes - and yes, that includes Back in Black. For those of you who aren't as familiar with AC/DC, you've certainly heard the sound. This on is simply THE BEST.
Holland by Beach Boys / 1972
Review by: Jarret McCaw
The sun has set and the truly original music begins. As they the beach, the Boys branch out to create what many true fans feel is their best album. Period. "Sail on Sailor" and "California Saga" are the highlights of an album that is remarkably mature and devoid of cars and girls. "Only with You" is Dennis Wilson's love song extraordinaire. Listen with open ears as they change your impression of a band that has been sadly stereotyped for too long.
Hotel California by Eagles / 1976
Review by: Rob Moorhouse
A true masterpiece of songwriting and musical genius, although the album only contains nine tracks it is hard to dislike any of them, whether it is Don Henley, Glenn Frey, Randy Meisner or Joe Walsh with the lead vocal.
From the classic opening track 'Hotel California' to the epic 'The Last Resort' the album contains excently constructed rock classics. The opening three songs all made the number one spot and 'Victim of love' and 'Try And Love Again' are both fine songs. The guitar solo's help to make the album my all time favourite and is an essential for any fan of classic rock.
Hunky Dory by David Bowie / 1971
Review by: Claude Carpentieri
As difficult as picking up the ultimate Bowie's favourite album could be, I'm afraid I'd look at my CD rack with my finger pointing at "Hunky Dory". It may be less innovative and experimental than many of his later works (like those of the Eno-marked Berlin years), but "Hunky Dory" is timeless pop which, in spite of a range of more or less successful iitators, hasn't been equalled yet. Granted the mankind's recognition for 'Changes'and 'Life on Mars', I'll channel my praise towards less famous wonders such as the Beatles-esque 'Kooks', 'Fill Your Hearts'and 'Andy Warhol', the latter a passionate tribute to the pop art svengali. 'Oh You Pretty Things' says it all about the effectiveness of the collaboration between Bowie and guitar-hero Mick Ronson. 10 out of 10
Hunky Dory by David Bowie / 1971
Review by: Jessie's Girl
Before Bowie, exploded with his Ziggy Stardust guitar sound, he put together this much subtler piano based album. The introspective Hunky Dory gives us the signature song "Changes" as well as "Oh! You Pretty Things" and "Life on Mars?". This album is really different and much less orchestrated than Stardust, but is still hard to turn down. Give it a few listens and while you could find yourself bored with "Ziggy", everything will still be Hunky Dory.
Innervisions by Stevie Wonder / 1973
Review by: Jarret McCaw
Forget "Songs in the Key of Life". This album is his peak. More focused and concise, it brings together politics and a great groove. Songs like "Living in the City" and "Jesus Children of merica" show how far ahead Wonder was from all his comptemoparies (black or white). This package is one big movement that flows from song to song. In the early 70s, Stevie Wonder WAS popular music. No one else came close. (Check out "Talking Book" for a close 2nd)
Let It Be by The Beatles / 1970
Review by: Andy Frymark
Great album, and thier last at that. It's got a great combination of their songs and styles they use. It's a must get album.
Let's Get It On by Marvin Gaye / 1973
Review by: Jessie's Girl
This album is one big symphony of sex - But it's one with class. From the start Marvin Gaye seduces the listener and keep them aroused. Gaye hides nothing in his lyrics and yet still delivers with taste. The best make out album of the 70s. At this point grown up Motown is fast becoming the norm.
Low Spark of HIgh Heeled Boys by Traffic / 1971
Review by: Jessie' Girl
After Steve Winwood left Traffic briefly to play with Blind Faith (Clapton and Ginger Baker), he came back with a much jazzier sound than earlier Traffic albums. "Relaxed atmosphere " best describes this album's sound with repeating piano chords as the center of most songs. The 12 minute title track is excellent, from its vocals to its hypnotic piano to its strong chorus. Most of this album reminds me of a journey though the land of the Arabian Knights. Defintely an album for a lazy Sunday.
Made In Japan by Deep Purple / 1972
Review by: Carlo Daudt
One of the best live albums ever, Made In Japan shows why Deep Purple was considered the "loudest band" at that time. Incredible performances of legendary songs like "Smoke On The Water" and "Highway Star" showing a band in its highest peak. A REALLY must have!
Main Course by Bee Gees / 1975
Review by: Tim Roxborogh
In an international career that began in 1967 and is still going strong today, "Main Course" remains the Bee Gees finest album. Featuring three huge hits in "Jive Talkin'", "Nights On Broadway" and "Fanny Be Tender" the real strength of the album is its musical diversity. The Gibb brothers have often been classed as a "disco" act by those who know little about them and despite "Main Course" being released at the start of the disco craze, nothing on the album other than "Jive Talkin'" could be regarded as such. Instead the album is a brilliant blend of r&b ("Fanny Be Tender", "Wind Of Change"), country ("Come On Over"), soul ("Songbird"), pop ("Edge Of The Universe") and balladry ("Baby As You Turn Away"). A flawless and joyous album by a band who after the Beatles have sold more albums than any other group in music history.
Music for 18 Musicians by Steve Reich / 1978
Review by: Adam schmidt
The most progressive album of its day, you can still hear it and be awed. Reich ends up laying the groundwork for some of techno music by taking 18 musicians with acoustic instruments only, and eliminating the melody entirely. Words cannot do this album justice.
A Night at the Opera by Queen / 1975
Review by: Molly Priest
What more is there to say about Queen's "A Night at the Opera" than : WOW! It is over the top, pure camp, superbly constructed, mock operatic... that almost everyone even in my generation (of the 90's) has heard. Who can seriously say that they have never heard Bohemian Rhapsody? It was (and still is) Freddie Mercury's magnum opus, bringing (as several have put it) opera to the masses. Although, Bohemian Rhapsody is not, by far, the only song on the album deserving of praise. Night at the Opera in its whole is deserving of acclaim. It has received numerous awards, and adoration. From the scathing "Death on Two Legs" to tenderly sung "Love of my Life" all is classic Queen and equally stunning. If you have never heard anything from this band, than at least take the time to listen to A Night at the Opera, and revel in what they were able to do, and what made Queen legends in their time!!
Quadrophenia by The Who / 1973
Review by: Jessie's Girl
Pete Townsend gives us Tommy's older brother, as he tells the story of growing up Mod in mid to late 60's London. Rocking much harder and more complex than Tommy, this album should have gotten more notice and airplay. The songs seem more seemless than other of Townsend's attempts and we are left with stong visual images after the record ends. A real step forward for The Who.
Road Food by The Guess Who / 1974
Review by: Mr. Media
While Pink Floyd were lost on the dark side of the moon and David Bowie was Aladdin Sane, the Guess Who reminded the world that they needed to rock. though the album failed on the charts and only produced two minor hits ("clap for the wolfman", and "star baby", it is one of the best albums of the 1970's. They take the traditional life on the road kind of lyrics and make it more polished and irreverent. Such a wonderful antidote to androgynous aliens from England and self-mutilating punks. Cumming's last stand with this band is still his best.
Rocks by Aerosmith / 1976
Review by: Trevor Moore
There is nothing radio ready about these numbers no videos or light shows or t-shirts or hits. In fact, its easy to forget that the shiny new and diluted version of the Toxic Twins ever rocked as hard as this 1976 slab demonstrates.
Coming off the heels of their commercially successful Toys in the Attic, Aerosmith answered with an explosion that didnt attempt to follow in the footsteps of anyones expectations. They made that very plain these tunes are nine Rats in the Cellar and they flow out of the speakers like a tidal wave. This is rock the way it was, and is, meant to be. You hear the fingers on the strings, the sticks on the symbols, and the plaster falling from the ceiling. The sheer visceral attack makes this one of the great rock n roll albums and an inspiration to all who believe in the raw power of the music.
Rumours by Fleetwood Mac / 1977
Review by: Alexandra Campbell
One of thee ultimate 70's albums if not the ultimate."Rumours" was an autobiography of Fleetwood Mac's Royal CaliforniaRock,cocaine cursed,soapopra.To be a fly on the wall during these sessions only one could be so lucky. Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham's 6 year romance was breaking apart and so was the marriage of John and Christine Mcvie;what did they do,they wrote songs about it. The LP at first was supposed to be called "Yesterday's gone" a line from the homage to Clinton song(campaign 1992) "Don't Stop";but cofounder John Mcvie decided that "Rumours" was more brilliantly apt considering all the dish that went around the rock industry during the making of it and he was right.Rumours like Stevie being with Mick seeing John on altenate Weds.,Lindsey and Chris running off together, Stevie leading a covet of witches into the hills of Sausolito where it was recorded,Stevie leaving the band explaining why it took so long to release,and the whole band being a burnt out case with unheard of quanities of liquer and cocaine. This album is perfect in everyway and road Fleetwood Mac straight to the bank spending 31 weeks at numorouno on the charts and selling 15 million records worldwide.To this day it is still one of the most bought albums. Stevie's love ballad "Dreams" was the only #1 single Fleetwood Mac has ever had.Lindsey's angry rock/pop answer to "Dreams" intitled "Go your own way" is a Fleetwood Mac gem.Christine's "You make Loving Fun" sung about the Mac's lighting director she was seeing was also a success.And the band's joint publishing song "The Chain" was a haunting tune about the the band trying to keep everything in tact.One of my favorite songs by "rock goddess"Stevie Nicks was "Golddust Woman" which talked about love,loss,life,and cocaine use.If you don't have this album shame on you,it's a beloved piece of ClassicRock history;rock history for that matter.You'll love it; just buy it!
SUPERFLY: Motion Picture Soundtrack by Curtis Mayfield / 1972 Re-Released in 1997 by Rhino Records
Review by: Pete Roberts
Curtis Mayfield was the Godfather of Funk. Tragically he died in 1999. His 1972 hit soundtrack score from the blaxploitation classic "Superfly" even today still sounds raw, hip and funky. Curtis' inspirational music can still hold its own amongst today's brand of musical artists. The score is a journey through the streets of New York, sometimes dark and tough, sometimes bright and soft, the feelings of inner city street life are right in front of you, conveyed by a true master of the craft: Curtis Mayfield. Check this one out, satisfaction guaranteed. Includes the hits: "Superfly", "Freddys Dead", "Pusherman" and more. 23 tracks in all.
Selling England By The Pound by Genesis / 1973
Review by: Tallrean
Genesis struck gold in the 1980s when their drummer/vocalist Phil collins became a major success and a music icon. The success of Collins has ended up overshadowing the artistic acomplishments of Genesis. 'Selling England By The Pound' features the classic Genesis (that's Phil collins, Mike Rutherford, Steve Hackett, Tony Banks, and Peter Gabriel) preforming a classic album that John Lennon himself was a fan of. This album is a must have for any rock music fan.
Something/Anything by Todd Rundgren / 1972
Review by: Kieth Moreland
After shedding the "Runt" identity ("We gotta get you a woman!"), Todd Rundgren released this double album. Almost everything is written, produced, and the instruments played by Todd. Two songs stand out as milestines in the lives of the 70's hormonally-challenged teens: "I Saw The Light," and "Hello It's Me." Chicks loved the former and guys, like myself, were so sure the latter was all we needed to have on the car's cassette tape player to ensure lots of French-kissing. I'm not alone in my views regarding the power of "Hello It's Me"...the writers of the recently released Fox-TV series "That 70's Show" highlighted Rundgren, and the song in the opening episode.
Squeezing Out Sparks by Graham Parker / 1979
Review by: Jessie's Girl
As disco and rock became too bloated for their own good, along came people like Elvis Costello and Graham Parker to tear through the excess. This album runs at high speed right out of the gate and has an acidic tone devoid of that lovey smarmyness common in pop music of the time. "Discovering Japan", "Local Girls" and "Saturday Nite is Dead" are all familiar and still fresh and exciting. Parker never drops below third gear on this album. Great noise for a reviving a Saturday Nite.
Street Survivor by Lynyrd Skynyrd / 1977
Review by: Kyle Sigler
I rate this one 100%.For it is the best Lynyrd Skynyrd album out there.And should be entered into the rock'n'roll hall of fame!
Who's Next by The Who / 1971
Review by: Jarret McCaw
Actually fragments of what would have another rock opera called "Lighthouse", Who's Next is a collection of nine of the best leftovers. Pete Townsend really gets into early synthesizers on this one, but is smart enough to use them along with other instruments, instead of making them the be all and end all.(Are you 90s artists listening) "Won't Get Fooled Again" makes it worth the purchase price alone. But then you also get Townsend's best ballad "Behind Blue Eyes" AND "Baba O'Reily" Every song is superb. This not an album from a leftover 60s band - It's the beginning of the 70s stadium rock sound and I bet Tom Scholtz was listening. Hands down, this is the Who at their bombastic peak.
never mind the bollocks (here's the sex pistols) by Sex Pistols / 1978
Review by: Kate Williams
Never mind the bollocks (here's the sex pistols) was the ultimate anarchy album. it showed the true heart of the punk movement. the album, containing such songs as God save the Queen and pretty vacant was the only way to say 'up yours' to authority and just about everything else!
how will I laugh tomorrow , and into the mirror black...
WOW...
Arrival by Abba / 1976
Review by: ed
This was the album which established Abba as one of the world's supergroups. Their earlier works - Abba and Waterloo - were good albums but they didn't demonstrate what was to become the Abba sound. The Greatest Hits Album was released prior to Arrival, but it contained, paradoxically few hits, as least by UK and US standards. Fernando was the one exception, and this had been added as an afterthought.
Greatest Hits was a great album, nonetheless, and it was hugely successful. But it was Arrival which was to change the way Abba was perceived by the listening public. Greatest Hits was Schlager and Folksy, Arrival was pure pop with meaingful lyrics and sound rythms.
Featuring tracks such as Dancing Queen, Money Money Money and Knowing Me Knowing You, it's easy to see why this album was so popular. Dancing Queen was a huge worldwide success, blending classical orchestral sounds with modern pop and cathcy lyrics. Money Money Money owed more to the north European marching tradition and brought discussion of serious issues - money - to the pop buying public.
Knowing me Knowing You> showed the groups serious side. Whether auto-biographical or not, no-one knows, but future problems between the 'happy' couples certainly meant that the lyrics could be understood in new ways. The video releases for these songs are classics in themsleves, especially Knowing me Knowing You. Abba were early adopters of the video release, due to their dislike of promotional touring. Arrival contains other numbers that weren't released as singles, but which could quite easily have stood their place among others in the singles charts. That's me is a reflective song about looking for true love, while Why did it have to be me is a witty song discussing the frivolities of relationships. Tiger is a pop/rock song talking about city life and the dangers in it.
Abba Arrival is a classic album reflecting ideas and concerns of the 70s which are still relevant today. If you've bought Abba Gold you'll be familiar with the singles from this album. Even although, it's worth buying for the non-singles.
Bad Company by Bad Company / 1974 (?)
Review by: Jessie's Girl
Great driving music. That's what Bad Company is. Switching between hard rockers like "Can't Get Enough" to beautiful songs like "Seagull" is a breeze for Paul Rodgers. He and Mick Ralphs write some of the essential early 70s songs here and they NEVER seem to get tired sounding. I simply LOVE this to death. (sorry Alice)
Broken English by Marianne Faithfull / 1978
Review by: Mr. media
Mick Jagger's ex takes the mike and maskes sure some heads roll. In this album she paves the way for people like Alanis Morisette and Jennifer Trynin as she describes life with addictions, being a groupie, and spousal infidelity. the first album that Peter Gabriel said "described adult relationships in adult terms" comes on with Steve Winwood's synthesizers and reminds you that lyrics aren't all about sockhops and puppy love.
Buckingham Nicks by Buckingham Nicks / 1972
Review by: Mr. Media
people have long praised Rumours for its amazing originality and bare-breasted emotion, but after you hear this album, you'll be reluctant if you don't think of Rumours and cringe. Most of "buckingham nicks" is sheer, unbridled emotion and desire. This album does not have the kind of production polish like "rumours" or "fleetwood mac", but we get stronger songwriting. "Crying in the Night" kicks off the album and reveals Nicks' fascination with golddiggers. "Crystal" is pure Buckingham genius, using a waltz pattern and woodwinds sophisticate the album. And that is one of the virtues of it, that it starts out on such simple notes but quickly escalates into beautiful symphonies ("Frozen Love") and Spanish guitars ("Long Distance Winner"). I had to scour the globe to find this album, but it was worth every red cent. For an album that makes Rumours seem like a spat, go out and get this one. NOW!!!!
Buckingham Nicks by Buckingham Nicks / 1972
Review by: adam Schmidt
the nude cover says it best "here we are:take it or leave it". They totally rock with a freedom that isn't found in their later records. lindsay's guitar is better than the best beer buzz and her vocals romanticize even the toughest aspects of love. play this one when you want to work out.
But Seriously Folks... by Joe Walsh / 1978
Review by: Pete Roberts
Joe Walsh, (member of The Eagles) another great band of the 70s, goes solo on this great mellow rock album. The album is more of an EP than a full circle rock n' roll romp. It conveys feelings of summertime blues, humor and memories of yesterday. The albums last track "Lifes Been Good" a classic rock favorite is sort of a "Life in the Fast Lane" part 2. If you like Walsh's earlier work with the James Gang and his great guitar playing, check out this one.
The Cars by The Cars / 1978
Review by: Jessie's Girl
What more could you want in a debut album ? With tracks like "My Best Friend's Girl" and "Just What I Needed", the Cars and producer Roy Thomas Baker (of Queen fame), have given a shot of out of this world rock at the height of disco schlock. These two and all the other tracks make up an album that no one else has immitated since and no had tried before. Unfortunately, the Cars never beat it either - even Heartbeat City is only 2nd best after this one. Old technology yes, dated, no.
Every Picture Tells A Story by Rod Stewart / 1971
Review by: Jessie's Girl
It's hard to believe he's still the same artist. Unlike his current CRAP, this album is superb. Rod "left" his band the Faces, and then took half of them back to record this solo album. His song selection was excellent, from the title song, to his covers of the Temptations "I'm Losing You" and Tim's Hardin's 'Reason to Believe". There's an energy here that combined with pounding re-historic musicianship works wonders and creates an album that all other future Rod Stewart albums are dismissed by. If you can't stand to hear "Maggie Mae" again, then skip it and enjoy the rest.
Foghat Live by Foghat /
Review by: Dan
This album is the must have album from the 70's every body had this 8 track in there car constantly playing. (Recently the lead singer to foghat died) Do you remember "slow ride" the live version is a lot better then the studio, honey hush sound like train kept a rollin by aerosmith but it is different ( a little). Buy it you will like it!
Fragile by Yes / 1972
Review by: Jarret McCaw
Call it art rock or Prog rock or whatever you want. But if you like instrumental breaks that swirl out of speakers, then you'll call this album great. The perfect balance is struck between melody and incredible musicianship. Later Yes albums would bore us to tears as the noodling would be taken to new excessive and nauseating heights. But on Fragile, Anderson, Wakeman, Bruford et al, got it right. Two minute songs team up with ten minute magnificence ("Heart of the Sunrise" for example). The album explores classical overtones without bordering on the ridiclous.
Highway to Hell by AC/DC / 1979
Review by: Jarret McCaw
No offence to current day AC/DC, but this is all you need. By this album, the style has already been perfected and as vocalist, Bon Scott can't be beat. The opening crunch of "Highway to Hell", the spooky 'Night Prowler", "If you Want Blood" etc.etc. The power chords are prefect and are set to inspire every metal band from now on. Every other AC/DC record is still good, but after this one, they're all rehashes - and yes, that includes Back in Black. For those of you who aren't as familiar with AC/DC, you've certainly heard the sound. This on is simply THE BEST.
Holland by Beach Boys / 1972
Review by: Jarret McCaw
The sun has set and the truly original music begins. As they the beach, the Boys branch out to create what many true fans feel is their best album. Period. "Sail on Sailor" and "California Saga" are the highlights of an album that is remarkably mature and devoid of cars and girls. "Only with You" is Dennis Wilson's love song extraordinaire. Listen with open ears as they change your impression of a band that has been sadly stereotyped for too long.
Hotel California by Eagles / 1976
Review by: Rob Moorhouse
A true masterpiece of songwriting and musical genius, although the album only contains nine tracks it is hard to dislike any of them, whether it is Don Henley, Glenn Frey, Randy Meisner or Joe Walsh with the lead vocal.
From the classic opening track 'Hotel California' to the epic 'The Last Resort' the album contains excently constructed rock classics. The opening three songs all made the number one spot and 'Victim of love' and 'Try And Love Again' are both fine songs. The guitar solo's help to make the album my all time favourite and is an essential for any fan of classic rock.
Hunky Dory by David Bowie / 1971
Review by: Claude Carpentieri
As difficult as picking up the ultimate Bowie's favourite album could be, I'm afraid I'd look at my CD rack with my finger pointing at "Hunky Dory". It may be less innovative and experimental than many of his later works (like those of the Eno-marked Berlin years), but "Hunky Dory" is timeless pop which, in spite of a range of more or less successful iitators, hasn't been equalled yet. Granted the mankind's recognition for 'Changes'and 'Life on Mars', I'll channel my praise towards less famous wonders such as the Beatles-esque 'Kooks', 'Fill Your Hearts'and 'Andy Warhol', the latter a passionate tribute to the pop art svengali. 'Oh You Pretty Things' says it all about the effectiveness of the collaboration between Bowie and guitar-hero Mick Ronson. 10 out of 10
Hunky Dory by David Bowie / 1971
Review by: Jessie's Girl
Before Bowie, exploded with his Ziggy Stardust guitar sound, he put together this much subtler piano based album. The introspective Hunky Dory gives us the signature song "Changes" as well as "Oh! You Pretty Things" and "Life on Mars?". This album is really different and much less orchestrated than Stardust, but is still hard to turn down. Give it a few listens and while you could find yourself bored with "Ziggy", everything will still be Hunky Dory.
Innervisions by Stevie Wonder / 1973
Review by: Jarret McCaw
Forget "Songs in the Key of Life". This album is his peak. More focused and concise, it brings together politics and a great groove. Songs like "Living in the City" and "Jesus Children of merica" show how far ahead Wonder was from all his comptemoparies (black or white). This package is one big movement that flows from song to song. In the early 70s, Stevie Wonder WAS popular music. No one else came close. (Check out "Talking Book" for a close 2nd)
Let It Be by The Beatles / 1970
Review by: Andy Frymark
Great album, and thier last at that. It's got a great combination of their songs and styles they use. It's a must get album.
Let's Get It On by Marvin Gaye / 1973
Review by: Jessie's Girl
This album is one big symphony of sex - But it's one with class. From the start Marvin Gaye seduces the listener and keep them aroused. Gaye hides nothing in his lyrics and yet still delivers with taste. The best make out album of the 70s. At this point grown up Motown is fast becoming the norm.
Low Spark of HIgh Heeled Boys by Traffic / 1971
Review by: Jessie' Girl
After Steve Winwood left Traffic briefly to play with Blind Faith (Clapton and Ginger Baker), he came back with a much jazzier sound than earlier Traffic albums. "Relaxed atmosphere " best describes this album's sound with repeating piano chords as the center of most songs. The 12 minute title track is excellent, from its vocals to its hypnotic piano to its strong chorus. Most of this album reminds me of a journey though the land of the Arabian Knights. Defintely an album for a lazy Sunday.
Made In Japan by Deep Purple / 1972
Review by: Carlo Daudt
One of the best live albums ever, Made In Japan shows why Deep Purple was considered the "loudest band" at that time. Incredible performances of legendary songs like "Smoke On The Water" and "Highway Star" showing a band in its highest peak. A REALLY must have!
Main Course by Bee Gees / 1975
Review by: Tim Roxborogh
In an international career that began in 1967 and is still going strong today, "Main Course" remains the Bee Gees finest album. Featuring three huge hits in "Jive Talkin'", "Nights On Broadway" and "Fanny Be Tender" the real strength of the album is its musical diversity. The Gibb brothers have often been classed as a "disco" act by those who know little about them and despite "Main Course" being released at the start of the disco craze, nothing on the album other than "Jive Talkin'" could be regarded as such. Instead the album is a brilliant blend of r&b ("Fanny Be Tender", "Wind Of Change"), country ("Come On Over"), soul ("Songbird"), pop ("Edge Of The Universe") and balladry ("Baby As You Turn Away"). A flawless and joyous album by a band who after the Beatles have sold more albums than any other group in music history.
Music for 18 Musicians by Steve Reich / 1978
Review by: Adam schmidt
The most progressive album of its day, you can still hear it and be awed. Reich ends up laying the groundwork for some of techno music by taking 18 musicians with acoustic instruments only, and eliminating the melody entirely. Words cannot do this album justice.
A Night at the Opera by Queen / 1975
Review by: Molly Priest
What more is there to say about Queen's "A Night at the Opera" than : WOW! It is over the top, pure camp, superbly constructed, mock operatic... that almost everyone even in my generation (of the 90's) has heard. Who can seriously say that they have never heard Bohemian Rhapsody? It was (and still is) Freddie Mercury's magnum opus, bringing (as several have put it) opera to the masses. Although, Bohemian Rhapsody is not, by far, the only song on the album deserving of praise. Night at the Opera in its whole is deserving of acclaim. It has received numerous awards, and adoration. From the scathing "Death on Two Legs" to tenderly sung "Love of my Life" all is classic Queen and equally stunning. If you have never heard anything from this band, than at least take the time to listen to A Night at the Opera, and revel in what they were able to do, and what made Queen legends in their time!!
Quadrophenia by The Who / 1973
Review by: Jessie's Girl
Pete Townsend gives us Tommy's older brother, as he tells the story of growing up Mod in mid to late 60's London. Rocking much harder and more complex than Tommy, this album should have gotten more notice and airplay. The songs seem more seemless than other of Townsend's attempts and we are left with stong visual images after the record ends. A real step forward for The Who.
Road Food by The Guess Who / 1974
Review by: Mr. Media
While Pink Floyd were lost on the dark side of the moon and David Bowie was Aladdin Sane, the Guess Who reminded the world that they needed to rock. though the album failed on the charts and only produced two minor hits ("clap for the wolfman", and "star baby", it is one of the best albums of the 1970's. They take the traditional life on the road kind of lyrics and make it more polished and irreverent. Such a wonderful antidote to androgynous aliens from England and self-mutilating punks. Cumming's last stand with this band is still his best.
Rocks by Aerosmith / 1976
Review by: Trevor Moore
There is nothing radio ready about these numbers no videos or light shows or t-shirts or hits. In fact, its easy to forget that the shiny new and diluted version of the Toxic Twins ever rocked as hard as this 1976 slab demonstrates.
Coming off the heels of their commercially successful Toys in the Attic, Aerosmith answered with an explosion that didnt attempt to follow in the footsteps of anyones expectations. They made that very plain these tunes are nine Rats in the Cellar and they flow out of the speakers like a tidal wave. This is rock the way it was, and is, meant to be. You hear the fingers on the strings, the sticks on the symbols, and the plaster falling from the ceiling. The sheer visceral attack makes this one of the great rock n roll albums and an inspiration to all who believe in the raw power of the music.
Rumours by Fleetwood Mac / 1977
Review by: Alexandra Campbell
One of thee ultimate 70's albums if not the ultimate."Rumours" was an autobiography of Fleetwood Mac's Royal CaliforniaRock,cocaine cursed,soapopra.To be a fly on the wall during these sessions only one could be so lucky. Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham's 6 year romance was breaking apart and so was the marriage of John and Christine Mcvie;what did they do,they wrote songs about it. The LP at first was supposed to be called "Yesterday's gone" a line from the homage to Clinton song(campaign 1992) "Don't Stop";but cofounder John Mcvie decided that "Rumours" was more brilliantly apt considering all the dish that went around the rock industry during the making of it and he was right.Rumours like Stevie being with Mick seeing John on altenate Weds.,Lindsey and Chris running off together, Stevie leading a covet of witches into the hills of Sausolito where it was recorded,Stevie leaving the band explaining why it took so long to release,and the whole band being a burnt out case with unheard of quanities of liquer and cocaine. This album is perfect in everyway and road Fleetwood Mac straight to the bank spending 31 weeks at numorouno on the charts and selling 15 million records worldwide.To this day it is still one of the most bought albums. Stevie's love ballad "Dreams" was the only #1 single Fleetwood Mac has ever had.Lindsey's angry rock/pop answer to "Dreams" intitled "Go your own way" is a Fleetwood Mac gem.Christine's "You make Loving Fun" sung about the Mac's lighting director she was seeing was also a success.And the band's joint publishing song "The Chain" was a haunting tune about the the band trying to keep everything in tact.One of my favorite songs by "rock goddess"Stevie Nicks was "Golddust Woman" which talked about love,loss,life,and cocaine use.If you don't have this album shame on you,it's a beloved piece of ClassicRock history;rock history for that matter.You'll love it; just buy it!
SUPERFLY: Motion Picture Soundtrack by Curtis Mayfield / 1972 Re-Released in 1997 by Rhino Records
Review by: Pete Roberts
Curtis Mayfield was the Godfather of Funk. Tragically he died in 1999. His 1972 hit soundtrack score from the blaxploitation classic "Superfly" even today still sounds raw, hip and funky. Curtis' inspirational music can still hold its own amongst today's brand of musical artists. The score is a journey through the streets of New York, sometimes dark and tough, sometimes bright and soft, the feelings of inner city street life are right in front of you, conveyed by a true master of the craft: Curtis Mayfield. Check this one out, satisfaction guaranteed. Includes the hits: "Superfly", "Freddys Dead", "Pusherman" and more. 23 tracks in all.
Selling England By The Pound by Genesis / 1973
Review by: Tallrean
Genesis struck gold in the 1980s when their drummer/vocalist Phil collins became a major success and a music icon. The success of Collins has ended up overshadowing the artistic acomplishments of Genesis. 'Selling England By The Pound' features the classic Genesis (that's Phil collins, Mike Rutherford, Steve Hackett, Tony Banks, and Peter Gabriel) preforming a classic album that John Lennon himself was a fan of. This album is a must have for any rock music fan.
Something/Anything by Todd Rundgren / 1972
Review by: Kieth Moreland
After shedding the "Runt" identity ("We gotta get you a woman!"), Todd Rundgren released this double album. Almost everything is written, produced, and the instruments played by Todd. Two songs stand out as milestines in the lives of the 70's hormonally-challenged teens: "I Saw The Light," and "Hello It's Me." Chicks loved the former and guys, like myself, were so sure the latter was all we needed to have on the car's cassette tape player to ensure lots of French-kissing. I'm not alone in my views regarding the power of "Hello It's Me"...the writers of the recently released Fox-TV series "That 70's Show" highlighted Rundgren, and the song in the opening episode.
Squeezing Out Sparks by Graham Parker / 1979
Review by: Jessie's Girl
As disco and rock became too bloated for their own good, along came people like Elvis Costello and Graham Parker to tear through the excess. This album runs at high speed right out of the gate and has an acidic tone devoid of that lovey smarmyness common in pop music of the time. "Discovering Japan", "Local Girls" and "Saturday Nite is Dead" are all familiar and still fresh and exciting. Parker never drops below third gear on this album. Great noise for a reviving a Saturday Nite.
Street Survivor by Lynyrd Skynyrd / 1977
Review by: Kyle Sigler
I rate this one 100%.For it is the best Lynyrd Skynyrd album out there.And should be entered into the rock'n'roll hall of fame!
Who's Next by The Who / 1971
Review by: Jarret McCaw
Actually fragments of what would have another rock opera called "Lighthouse", Who's Next is a collection of nine of the best leftovers. Pete Townsend really gets into early synthesizers on this one, but is smart enough to use them along with other instruments, instead of making them the be all and end all.(Are you 90s artists listening) "Won't Get Fooled Again" makes it worth the purchase price alone. But then you also get Townsend's best ballad "Behind Blue Eyes" AND "Baba O'Reily" Every song is superb. This not an album from a leftover 60s band - It's the beginning of the 70s stadium rock sound and I bet Tom Scholtz was listening. Hands down, this is the Who at their bombastic peak.
never mind the bollocks (here's the sex pistols) by Sex Pistols / 1978
Review by: Kate Williams
Never mind the bollocks (here's the sex pistols) was the ultimate anarchy album. it showed the true heart of the punk movement. the album, containing such songs as God save the Queen and pretty vacant was the only way to say 'up yours' to authority and just about everything else!
