The Doors | The Doors – Classic Commentary

As debut albums go, The Doors packed a punch that still reverberates to this very day. Jim Morrison was young and hungry, ready to take a big bite out of the...

The Rolling Stones | Beggars Banquet – Classic Commentary

So many musical puzzles fell together in 1968. The Beatles and Jimi Hendrix lead the way with career-defining albums released in November. Somehow, though, the Rolling Stones got in...

Jethro Tull | Aqualung – Classic Commentary

In a previous write-up on Jethro Tull's Aqualung, I boldly proclaimed that the album, released in 1971, had ingrained itself into the rock stratum forever. On its 40 anniversary,...

Pink Floyd | The Wall – Classic Commentary

Pink Floyd's The Wall was bound for greatness despite the financial woes and internal friction brewing between the band's principals — Roger Waters, David Gilmour, Rick Wright, and Nick...

George Harrison | All Things Must Pass – Classic Commentary

The first box set of any consequence, All Things Must Pass is representative of everything George Harrison ever wanted to do, but was – at that time – never allowed to...

Deep Purple | Machine Head – Classic Commentary

Deep Purple's Machine Head was not made under favorable circumstances. The band was originally scheduled to begin recording at The Casino in Montreux, Switzerland, but, in their own words, "some stupid...

Black Sabbath | Sabbath Bloody Sabbath – Classic Commentary

When it comes to Black Sabbath albums, the go-to’s seem to be the first three — Black Sabbath, Paranoid, and Master Of Reality. There’s little argument that these early...

Big Star | #1 Record & Radio City – Classic Commentary

Big Star was a wondrous anomaly in the heavy-duty early 70s. All the proggy, acid-fueled, blues-based dirge couldn’t diminish the group’s pop sensibilities, despite the infighting and distribution hassles....

Queen | A Night At The Opera – Classic Commentary

In and around the mid 70s, there was a cluster of different styles and temperaments stirring around in the pop music kettle. With progressive, glam and hard rock all...

Al Stewart | Year Of The Cat – Classic Commentary

Released in 1976, Year Of The Cat is the album that put Al Stewart on the map, showcasing his lyrical prowess and musical finesse. The album encapsulates Stewart's distinctive...