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...
Carole King | Tapestry – Classic Commentary
The story has all the makings of a splendiferous fairy tale: Brill Building songwriter goes solo and her second record becomes one of the biggest selling albums of all time....
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...
Peter Frampton | Frampton Comes Alive! – Classic Commentary
In 1969, Peter Frampton emerged from the woodwork as the lead guitarist for Humble Pie. When he quit in 1971, the Pie had just released a phenomenal live album...
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...
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,...
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...
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...
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....
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...
