Reviews by tall_poppy

Simply their best record imo. Unabashedly borrowing from blues standards and moulding them into a sonic world that only this group of performers could have created. The period from LZ 1-4 someone great rock era runs of records in only a few years. And with apologies to Physical Graffiti - great but bloated - they never made a better record afterwards

I prefer their debut album by quite a bit, though critics generally say that it doesn’t capture these essence. Happy Trails is interesting but to me lacks variety and is a more intelligent release. The band had a lineup of significant talent and is always worth a spin.

Essential late 70's power pop that broke this deserving band into the mainstream and influenced rock bands everywhere. Plus it asked the question, "where the hell is Budokan"?

Not likely to bring a smile to your face, but serious rock played very well.

Mature and remarkable record! Give it a listen.

I much prefer their earlier records, which by and large distilled folk into their “thing”, versus this soulful jazz incarnation. Honestly can’t listen to this, much as I have a fondness for the duo.

Partnered with Bee thousand, perhaps the quintessential lofi record of the 90’s, and filled with ideas, and some songs too. Motor Away is one of their very best.

Brilliant early album with knockout songs that established B&S as leader of a new movement of twee pop.

Perhaps the apotheosis of sophisticated singer songwriter. More complex musically and arrangement wise and therefore seemingly less personal than others. But it’s brilliant

No thanks !

At the time this sounded absolutely glorious

The early Who at their best, with energy and cheek galore. Fantastic few songs, but not a true competitor for greatest album.

An essential 80’s pop album. The songwriting and production craft is top notch.

So many things to like about this album. The mix of pop, folk and psychedelia, all with an oh-so San Franciscan vibe. It could be described as ramshackle if the songs themselves weren't so perfect. The band was packed with major talents, all of whom shine at different times in different ways. Marty Balin, Paul Kantner, Grace Slick, Jorma Kaukonen, Jack Cassady and Spencer Dryden, yowza.

Both a template for socially driven psychedelic rock album-ry, and an idiosyncratic and personal look into the drug fuelled mind of a black man living in LA in the sixties. All through the lens of a rare multi racial band.

In my world, early Cure is better. 17 secs is a timepiece and despite or because of its “simple everything” musical approach, still captures my attention and has me listening and admiring it.

Such an important record for the 80’s alt guitar movement. Filled with noisy crappy and occasionally gorgeous and rocking tunes, it was as good as guitar music got in its day.

A glossy and successful version of of the Pogues, with some great songs though arguably not their best. For those, go to Rum Sodomy and the Lash.

Essential ! Heavy if simple no holds barred guitar trio with Osborne’s sui generis vocals. Template for much that came after.

Great introduction to EC as a true blues man (moreso than Yardbirds) and JM always brings energy and credibility to the material. Excellent