Here is a list of albums that I believe are under appreciated (if not underrated). I know that lists are essentially a useless exercise, but I am not listing them from best to worst or otherwise ranking them. I simply went through my collection and picked albums that I feel are either (1) overshadowed by other records in the artist’s catalogue, such that they are generally overlooked, (2) aren’t that well known to many music fans, or (3) do not receive the proper amount of attention and airplay from radio and other media. At least those are the basic criteria (for those of you who ask . . . you know who you are haha). Anyway, here we go in iTunes order (first name based since I don’t like last name, first name).
1. B.B King – Lucille (1968)
Any record with “Watch Yourself” needs to be played repeatedly. B.B. is in great form on this one. The album is a classic example of great late 60s blues. I like that it doesn’t have the over-produced sound of many of his classic records, just really solid, relaxed blues.
2. The Band – Northern Lights Southern Cross (1975)
I believe that this is the last true “Band” album (it was the first collection of new material since 1971’s “Cahoots”). It’s on the list for the 3 following reasons: “Ophelia”, “Acadian Driftwood” (right there with the best of the best) and “It Makes No Difference”. The album garnered much critical acclaim, but like many albums on this list, it didn’t do astonishing well in the charts. The album finished as the Band’s lowest-charting Robbie Robertson-era record in the Canadian charts and it only reached No. 26 in the US. But the guys seemed to have found a renewed focus that had been lacking for a while, and they mustered up a solid and well balanced effort. Upon reflection, the album in tends to surpass many of their more heralded works.
3. Bare Naked Ladies – Gordon (1992)
I consider this album to be one of my desert island discs. Not a clunker among the bunch. From the opening “Hello City” to the brilliant “Brian Wilson” and “Be My Yoko Ono”, to their spot on goof of artist box sets in “Box Set” (“Disc 5 I was barely alive, I was hacking up a lung”), and groupies in “New Kids On The Block” (“It just might be your daughter on our bus”), this is a solid album top to bottom.
4. Brian Eno – Another Green World (1975)
This album includes contributions from several guest musicians including Robert Fripp, Phil Collins, and John Cale. It’s another record that garnered high praise from critics, but failed to chart in the United States or the United Kingdom. While not an album of true ambient music (which Eno would later become closely associated with), the album provides a good vehicle for an introduction into that ambient style of music. It’s a great collection of songs, particularly “St. Elmo’s Fire” and “I’ll Come Running”. Nothing short of a masterpiece.
5. The Beatles – Beatles For Sale (1964)
This album marked a minor turning point in the Lennon–McCartney songwriting partnership, with John Lennon particularly now showing interest in composing songs of a more autobiographical nature. I actually love the album, despite its rather somber mood following the upbeat sound of the Beatlemania fueled “A Hard Day’s Night” released several months earlier. I am particularly found of “Eight Days A Week”, “No Reply”, “I’m A Loser” “Words Of Love” and “What You’re Doing”. It is probably the most under appreciated album in their catalogue.
6. Black Nasty – Talking To The People (1973)
A great, unique funk sound from the early 70’s. If you like Funkadelic, Rare Earth or the Ohio Players, you will certainly enjoy this record. Definitely a gem. It’s worth the money for the title track alone. It was released on Stax records, so you know there is some serious goodness on the record. When it was released, it probably was a bit to rocking for black radio, and at the same time, too funky and soul-oriented for FM rock radio. So Black Nasty fell through the cracks, being a commercial disappointment but garnering much critical acclaim. Enjoy the grooves on this one.
7. Bob Dylan – Desire (1976)
This album is clearly overshadowed by other critically acclaimed and commercially successful albums in Dylan’s vast catalogue. But, “Desire” is a masterpiece in its own write. Many of the songs on this record feature backing vocals by Emmylou Harris (enough said there). It contains many terrific songs, including “Hurricane”, “Isis”, “Mozambique”, “One More Cup of Coffee” and “Black Diamond Bay”. Other than “Joey”, it’s one to listen to the whole way through.
8. Bruce Cockburn – Inner City Front (1981)
This record is another one of my desert island discs. Again not a clunker on either side (for those of you who have the vinyl). Cockburn foregoes the folkier, acoustic leanings of his 1970s albums and ventures into the jazz, world beat and rock world. The record contains fantastic lyrics (as one would expect from Bruce), which are highlighted by the title track, the brilliant “Justice” and “Broken Wheel”. Just a magnificent album.
9. Cannonball Adderley – Something Else (1958)
I consider this the companion album to Miles Davis’ “Kind of Blue”, since it was recorded while Adderley was in Davis’ Sextet and at about the same time as Davis’ record. It includes one of the few post-1955 appearances of Miles Davis as a sideman. Always overshadowed by its better known cousin, it is a fantastic album in its own right and a must have for any record collection.
10. Captain Beefheart And His Magic Band – Safe As Milk (1967)
One could probably include every Captain Beefheart album in a discussion of under appreciated albums. The ground breaking innovation and musicianship on his records has been well documented, but little has found its way into mainstream music circles. It’s an acquired taste, but well worth the effort. Given the length of the Captain’s recording career and the radical changes in band membership and musical direction, this will be the first of three Beefheart records included here. This album features a 20-year-old Ry Cooder, who played guitar and often acted as musical arranger. The album contains a number of Beefheart classics, complete with odd time signatures and and surreal lyrics (“Abba Zaba”, “Dropout Boogie” and “Electricity”). The album even includes a hint of what the Magic Band could have been if they had elected to go in a more conventional direction, as the soul influenced “I’m Glad” illustrates. But most of the album has a distinct psychedelic sound (exemplified by “Zig Zag Wander”). I will never forget what someone wrote on the album cover at my college radio station – “Eat your heart out Jefferson Airplane” – which I always thought was the highest compliment one could give to a psychedelic album from the late 60s.
11. Captain Beefheart And The Magic Band – Clear Spot (1972)
After the lack of commercial success of “Trout Mask Replica” and “Lick My Decals Off Baby” (despite the critical acclaim for each), Beefheart elected to go for a more mainstream sound (to possibly earn some much needed money). The result was the wonderfully bluesy “Clear Spot”. Unfortunately for the band, the album failed to chart. But it is well worth a listen and should be included in any serious record collection. The opening track “Low Yo Yo Stuff” is a driving, blues fueled rocker that sets the tone for the record. “Her Eyes Are a Blue Million Miles” is a beautiful tune that was included in the soundtrack to “The Big Lebowski”. “Big Eyed Beans From Venus” contains some outstanding guitar work. There is even a “tender” ballad in “My Head Is My Only House Unless It Rains”. How this album failed to gain commercial success is beyond me.
12. Captain Beefheart And The Magic Band – Shiny Beast (Bat Chain Puller) (1978)
Much has been written about the production difficulties surrounding the original effort to make this record (the “Bat Chain Puller” sessions), and Beefheart’s resulting feud with his “friend” Frank Zappa (and Zappa’s record label), so I will not go into that discussion that here. Shiny Beast is the album that ultimately emerged for release and it is a terrific album, certainly one of the finer efforts of the Captain’s career (although “Doc At The Radar Station” warrants serious consideration too). The title track “Bat Chain Puller” had its rhythm track inspired by the sound of windshield wipers on a car, which becomes quite evident when listening closely to the tune. “Tropical Hot Dog Night” is a latin fueled number that was covered by Coati Mundi & Rubén Blades and ended up getting play in latin nightclubs. The album received much critical acclaim and was hailed as a return to brilliance after the dismal reception that his prior two albums received. But, it is a record that might take several listens before you reach a “eureka” moment.
13. David Crosby – If I Could Only Remember My Name (1971)
One could argue that it’s hard to characterize an album that made it to number 12 on the Billboard charts as under appreciated. But I submit that if I asked the average music enthusiast to name more than one song from this album, many would not be able to do so. One reason could be that the album does not really contain any “hits”. But the list of musicians who played on the album is a who’s who of the late sixties San Francisco (and LA) psychedelic scene, including Jerry Garcia, Phil Lesh, Bill Kreutzmann, Mickey Hart, Neil Young, Graham Nash, Jorma Kaukonen, Jack Casady, Paul Kantner, Grace Slick, David Freiberg, Gregg Rollie, Mike Shrieve and Joni Mitchell. Crosby once thanked Phil Lesh for making “Laughing” such a compelling track with his bass playing and that tune is probably the star of this collection. “Cowboy Movie”, “Tamalpais High (At About 3)”, “Traction In The Rain” and “Song With No Word (Tree With No Leaves)” are also all outstanding compositions. An absolute most own disc for any collection.
14. Dire Straits – Communique (1979)
Overshadowed by its predecessor (the group’s debut release) and subsequent efforts like “Making Movies” and “Brothers In Arms”, “Communique” is an excellent record in its own right. “Once Upon A Time In The West”, the title track,”Lady Writer”, “Angel Of Mercy” and “Single-Handed Sailor” are all outstanding tunes. This one is a pleasure to listen to and should not get lost among the band’s other fine efforts.
15. Dr. John – Gris Gris (1968)
The debut album by Dr. John, it is a hybrid of New Orleans rhythm and blues and psychedelic rock. The album failed to achieve commercial success, but it garnered much critical acclaim, often showing up on lists of the greatest albums of all time. The musical style and experimental nature of the music make for compelling listening. The inclusion of “I Walk On Guilded Splinters” alone might warrant inclusion of the album here.
16. Frank Zappa – Over-Nite Sensation (1973)
Again, an album with highly recognizable songs being under appreciated? Yes. For starters, this was Zappa’s highest charting album since “We’re Only In It For The Money” from 1967, and it only made it to #32. And remember, we are talking Frank Zappa here, hardly a mainstream, radio-friendly artist. But the album is chock full of great Zappa nuggets. “Camarillo Brillo” (of the “Is that a real poncho . . . I mean Is that a Mexican poncho or is that a Sears poncho?” fame), “Dirty Love”, “Dinah-Moe Hum” and “Montana” (“Just to raise me up a crop of Dental Floss, Raisin’ it up Waxin’ it down…”). Just a wonderful album. (Note: “One Size Fits All” comes in a close second).
17. Funkadelic – Maggot Brain (1971)
This Funkadelic album is considered one of the pioneers of a whole new kind of psychedelic rock, one with a dance groove. The album features George Clinton, Eddie Hazel and Bernie Worrell, which pretty much sums it up. The title track has incredible guitar playing by Eddie Hazel, and is probably worth inclusion for that alone. Plus who doesn’t love the album cover! Dive into this one.
18. Ginger Baker – Stratavarious (1972)
This is an african rhythm based album by Ginger Baker, assisted by a collection of musicians, including the Nigerian pioneer of Afrobeat, Fela Ransome-Kuti. It is one of the first albums from a western rock star to utilize african rhythms, well in advance of efforts from the Talking Heads, Peter Gabriel and Paul Simon. The album is a mix of Afrobeat, rock music and jazz fusion. Overall, it is a very enjoyable listen.
19. Grateful Dead – Wake Of The Flood (1974)
Before I chose this album, I also considered including either “From The Mars Hotel” and “Alabama Getaway” as under appreciated albums (I know I will probably catch a lot of grief for “Alabama Getaway” from people who say Brent made it sound too much like a Doobie Brothers record, but I like it). Anyway, “Wake Of The Flood” is the first album the band recorded without bluesman Ron “Pigpen” McKernan and the first with Keith Godchaux. The result is an album with more of a jazz flavor and less of the rock, country and blues flavor of their prior albums. Notably, the album only contains one Bob Weir tune, “Weather Report Suite” (but that one tune is a damn good one). “Eyes Of The World”, “Here Comes Sunshine”, “Row Jimmy” and “Mississippi Half-Step” make up a very solid effort.
20. Hot Tuna – Burgers (1972)
The third album by Hot Tuna, featuring Jorma Kaukonen, Jack Casady, and Papa John Creach, makes the list. An outstanding lineup of songs, including “Keep On Trucking”, “True Religion”, “99 Year Blues”, as well as the wonderful “Sea Child” and “Water Song”. It amazes me that many of these songs did not find their way into the steady rotation of the FM airways. But not to worry, you can listen to it whenever you wish. No music collection would be complete without this record.
21. Indigo Girls – Rites Of Passage (1992)
Probably my favorite Indigo Girls album. The first 5 cuts, “Three Hits”, “Galileo”, “Ghost”, “Joking” and “Jonas and Ezekial” get the album off to a wonderful start. “Airplane” is a humorous little tune, helped immensely by the Roches. “Let It Be Me” features David Crosby and Jackson Browne and contains an eerily familiar riff very reminiscent of Andrew Gold’s “Thank You For Being A Friend” (to me anyway). A great listen beginning to end, without a clunker in the bunch.
22. J. Geils Band – Bloodshot (1973)
I know I will probably get some raised eyebrows for including J. Geils, but that would just be wrong. First thing one needs to do is get the “Centerfold” version of J. Geils out of your head. J. Geils was a good blues band back in the day. This album is bluesy and it rocks. It also contains one of my favorite songs of all time “Give It To Me”. The record opens with a great party rocker “(Ain’t Nothin’ But A) House Party”, and from the opening notes you know you are going to be moving (and grooving and rolling and strolling) every part of your body. “Southside Shuffle” is another great tune too. Give this one a good listen with a clear and open mind, you won’t be disappointed. And it’s cool that a version was released on red vinyl to boot!
23. James McMurtry – Candyland (1992)
James McMurtry offers a deep, personable delivery, equally suited to both country and rock. A GREAT songwriter in the Americana tradition. He writes songs that paint pictures of the American way of life. Both “Safe Side” and “Good Life” capture the feel of American culture as well as any song, from any artist. I love the title track which just rocks out (“He clips his roach and he hauls his load, taking his half out of the middle of the road…in the Candyland”). Another must have album for any collection (and while you are at it, you can add the rest of his catalogue too).
24. The Jayhawks – Hollywood Town Hall (1992)
Definitely one of my top 10 desert island discs. Clearly noticeable musical influences from The Everly Brothers, The Rolling Stones, and Neil Young (‘Sister Cry”) on the album. An album that would have made Gram Parsons proud. Fantastic harmonies, it is an album that needs to be listened to straight through, since every song is terrific. It gets the Luv4music seal of approval.
25. Jerry Garcia – Reflections (1976)
Jerry Garcia’s third solo album typically gets overshadowed by his debut solo album and his second solo effort “Compliments”. But Reflections is a wonderful collection of solid tunes, many of which were regularly played by the Dead in concert. The delightful “Might As Well” kicks it off. Other great tunes on the record include “Mission In The Rain”, “They Love Each Other” (one of my personal favorites), “It Must Have Been The Roses” and the GD concert treat “Comes A Time”, all of which make for great listening. A great “unofficial” Grateful Dead record.
26. Jethro Tull – Benefit (1970)
Probably my favorite Tull album , although “Stand Up” is really hard to beat. It is clearly overshadowed by its follow up “Aqualung” and its predecessor “Stand Up”, but I think it’s a terrific effort. Martin Barre claims “To Cry You a Song” was written as a response to Blind Faith’s “Had to Cry Today” even though there is no musical similarity between the two tracks. Other great tunes include “With You There to Help Me”, “Nothing to Say”, “Inside” and “Play in Time”, all of which are among Tull’s best. And the album’s hit tune “Teacher”, is a much deserved staple of classic rock. Go ahead and put aside “Aqualung, “Stand Up” and “Thick As a Brick” for a minute, and discover one of Tull’s best efforts instead.
27. Joan Armatrading – Joan Armatrading (1976)
Another of my top 10 desert island discs (am I up to 20 on that list yet? haha). This one is just a tour de force record. The album contains incredible vocals and songwriting, and is a must have for every music lover. Producer Glyns John said that the album “almost single-handedly elevated Armatrading into the ranks of rock’s leading female artists”. He later said it was the best album he’d ever been associated with. I couldn’t agree more. “Down to Zero”, “Help Yourself”, “Water With the Wine”, “Love and Affection”, “Join the Boys”, “Like Fire” and the album’s finale “Tall in the Saddle” all contribute to make this a masterpiece record.
28. Joe Jackson – Blaze Of Glory (1989)
A great album, but one which garnered not only little commercial success, but also failed to receive much critical acclaim. Jackson considers the album one of his best efforts, and I agree with him on that assessment. Obviously overshadowed by “Night And Day” and “Look Sharp”, the record is an examination of his generation, from the 50s to the late 80s. “Down to London” is a great song which became a staple in his live shows. The title track is a brilliant effort, referencing the rock star with the meteoric rise and the just as meteoric flame-out. “Rant And Rave” segues right into “Nineteen Forever” and comprise the radio play tracks on the record. And “Evil Empire” is a not too well disguised lash-out at the Reagan-era America (although he crafts it in a way that one could also think he could be talking about the USSR). Jackson insisted on playing the new album in its entirety at the start of each concert, which often led to restless audiences (which resulted in him penning the song “Hit Single” on his follow up record “Laughter And Lust” – which also could be considered for inclusion on this list). Overall, an excellent, under appreciated album.
29. Joe Strummer And The Mescaleros – Streetcore (2003)
The third and final studio album by Joe Strummer & the Mescaleros, it was completed after Joe’s untimely death. A more straightforward rock album than the Mescaleros’ prior albums, it was a return to a sound more reminiscent of The Clash. Probably worthy of inclusion solely based on the great track “Get Down Moses”, the album offers a number of excellent tunes, like “Coma Girl” and “Redemption Song” among others. Joe certainly went out on a high note wth this one, but sadly left us wondering what could have been had he not left us much too soon.
30. John Entwistle – Whistle Rymes (1972)
The best solo album from a member of The Who not named Pete Townshend. Peter Frampton supplies some great guitar work and Keith Moon is featured on drums. A solid effort from The Ox. The tracks “Who Cares?” and “I Feel Better” stand out. Definitely worth a listen.
31. John Mayall – The Turning Point (1969)
I tried not to include live albums on the list, but since this album is another one of my desert island discs, I felt compelled to break the rule. This is an excellent mood album, a low volume music album without heavy lead guitar and drums. Stand outs include “I’m Gonna Fight for You J.B.”, “So Hard To Share”, “The Laws Must Change” and “Room to Move”.
32. John Mayall – Jazz Blues Fusion (1972)
Nothing like breaking the rule twice in a row, but this is another terrific (live) album that cannot be ignored. Great feel good jazz inspired blues numbers like “Country Road”, “Mess Around” and “Change Your Ways” lead the way.
33. King Crimson – Beat (1982)
Beat has the distinction of being the first King Crimson studio album to feature a band line-up identical to that of the immediately prior album. Which is perfectly acceptable when that lineup consists of Robert Fripp, Tony Levin, Bill Bruford and Adrian Belew. The album focused on the twenty-fifth anniversary of the publication of the novel “On the Road” by Jack Kerouac. Generally overshadowed by the debut from this lineup (“Discipline”), the polyrhythms are first rate. I particularly like “Waiting Man” and “Sartori in Tangier”. “Heartbeat”, “Neal, Jack And Me” (which was titled “Absent Lovers when I saw them in concert before the album’s release), and “Neurotica” (which was referred to as “Manhattan” at that show) are also notable tunes on the album.
34. King Sunny Ade – Aura (1984)
While not a commercial smash, “Aura” is one of my favorite recordings from King Sunny. Generally overshadowed by “Juju Music” and “Synchro System”, Aura is a terrific record. The great Stevie Wonder is featured on harmonica on “Ase”. The album is generally considered his most Westernized effort. Interestingly, nearly every track on “Aura” features assertive synthesizers and ticking, programmed beats not far from the hip hop of the time, similar in many ways to Herbie Hancock’s “Rockit” or Afrika Bambaataa’s “Planet Rock”. An all around solid album.
35. Little Feat – Feats Don’t Fail Me Now (1974)
Little Feat is one of the most underrated bands of all time, so virtually every one album of their albums could be included on this list. Certainly “Time Loves A Hero” was strongly considered, but I believe that this collection is more deserving of inclusion on the list. The record contains one of my all time favorite Feat tunes, “Spanish Moon” (although the best version is the one off “Waiting For Columbus”). The album also contains classics like “Oh Atlanta”, “Skin it Back” and the “Medley: Cold Cold Cold/Tripe Face Boogie”.
36. Los Lobos – The Neighborhood (1990)
One of the great American bands, a large portion of their catalogue could be included on this list. This one is a treat and it includes contributions from a number of artists, including Levon Helm and John Hiatt. “Angel Dance” is one of their finer songs, and is one of the band’s true gems. “Emily’ features David Hidalgo on violin and Levon Helm on mandolin. “Jenny’s Got A Pony” is a great rocker. “I Walk Alone” and the title track round out a very solid record.
37. Los Lobos – Kiko (1992)
The follow up to “The Neighborhood”, “Kiko” is Los Lobos’ masterpiece. One of the most under appreciated and underrated albums of all time (in my opinion). The record is just loaded from top to bottom with great tunes. It would be futile to try to list the best tunes, since it entire album would be listed. But, a few of the stand outs include “Dream In Blue”, “Wake Up Dolores” and my favorite “Peace”. I can’t say enough good things about this one.
38. Lucinda Williams – Sweet Old World (1992)
“Sweet Old World” is a brilliant album full of short-story details in each song. The album proves that Lucinda Williams is a first class song writer with a wrenching directness that hits one directly in the heart. She sings the tunes with a scratchy southern drawl backed with a bluesy roots-rock sound. One would be hard pressed to come up with a more powerful and gut wrenching tune than “Pineola”. “Hot Blood”, “He Never Got Enough Love” and “Sweet Old World” also stand out. Like a number of other albums on this list, not a clunker in the bunch.
39. Lyle Lovett – Joshua Judges Ruth (1992)
Yet another album that received critical acclaim but failed to obtain mainstream success. The album title has biblical references and some of the songs have religious underpinnings, but generally the songs mostly reflect on musings of heartbreak and loss. “I’ve Been To Memphis” and “Church” are both wonderful tunes to start off the album and set the tone for a well written and well performed album. This is another album that should be in everyone’s collection.
40. Magic Sam – West Side Soul (1967)
“West Side Soul” is considered by some to be one of the great electric blues albums of all time. Magic Sam is known for his tremolo sound, and he certainly displays it on this one. This is the kind of album that sounds like it could have been recorded live in a night club, rather than in a studio. It’s just a unique, outstanding blues record. Even the cover song “Sweet Home Chicago” sounds uniquely original here. If you love the blues, this has to be in your collection. A truly under appreciated masterpiece.
41. Mel Brown – Chicken Fat (1967)
The debut album by Mel Brown contains a unique spin on the bluesy guitar/organ sound. Mel wows us with his tight and smokin’ grooves, which are reminiscent of Booker T. and The MGs. The album is rooted in the blues, but Mel brings us some R&B, funk, soul, rock n’ roll, cool organ work and some absolutely incredible guitar exchanges. Another must have blues record for the serious blues aficionado. Get this one, you will not be sorry.
42. Michael Franti & Spearhead – Yell Fire! (2006)
It was a toss up between this one and “Everyone Deserves Music”, but I chose to go with “Yell Fire”. This album was inspired by Franti’s trip to the Middle East and the conflicts he witnessed there. Another album on the list where the title track alone is probably enough to put the record on the list. But there are plenty of other nuggets, such as “I Know I’m Not Alone”, “One Step Closer to You” and “Hey Now Now”. Give this one (and his entire catalogue) a listen.
43. Michelle Shocked – Arkansas Traveler (1992)
One thing I discovered compiling this list is that 1992 had a lot of great albums and a lot of under appreciated albums. One of the golden years I guess. “Arkansas Traveler” focuses on the roots of Shocked’s music. The album features numerous guest appearances including Taj Mahal, Alison Krauss, Tony Levin, members of Uncle Tupelo, Levon Helm, Rick Danko and Garth Hudson. “33 RPM Soul” and “Come Along Way” are terrific tunes and set the tone for the record. They are followed by a “Secret To A Long Life” which features the unmistakable vocals of the national treasure, Levon Helm. It is just a fantastic tune, and could have easily been included on any classic Band record. Another favorite on the record is “Prodigal Daughter (Cotton Eyed Joe)” with its southern charms. This is another critically acclaimed album that failed to achieve commercial success. But that won’t stop you from enjoying it.
44. Mighty Diamonds – Reggae Street (1981)
One of my favorite reggae albums. The Diamonds are backed by the Revolutionaries (led by Sly & Robbie) and the rhythms are strictly rockers, the singing strictly roots. From the smoothness of “Reggae Street” to the rocking “Shabby Raggy” to the fabulous intro to “King Kong”, the collection of tunes on this one is rock steasdy. A truly great reggae classic, it will make you feel ire.
45. Miles Davis – E.S.P. (1965)
Like the Beatles, it might seem a bit silly to include an “under appreciated” Miles Davis record. But, when you have records such as “Kind of Blue”, “Bitches Brew”, “In A Silent Way”, etc. it’s easy for other albums in the catalogue to get overlooked and overshadowed. E.S.P is a great record. It’s the first album by what is often referred to as Miles Davis’s second great quintet, comprising Davis, Wayne Shorter, Herbie Hancock, Ron Carter and Tony Williams. “Agitation” is probably the star of the collection. But the title track, “Eighty-One” and “Little One” are all good in their own right. Don’t overlook this one.
46. Mofro – Lochloosa (2004)
The second studio album by the Jacksonville, Florida-based band, led by the incomparable JJ Grey. The songs speak to the Florida heartland, and consist of what JJ calls “back porch swamp boogie” music. The record includes the fabulous title track, which is always a highlight in concert. It’s just a moving piece of music (“Every alligator every black water swamp, Every freshwater spring – everything, All we need is one more damn developer tearing her heart out, All we need is one more Mickey Mouse, Another golf course another country club, Another gated community…”), all that more powerful when performed live. “Fireflies”, “How Junior Got His Head Put Out”, “Ten Thousand Islands”, “Dirtfloorcracker” and “Six Ways From Sunday” also stand out. Overall, a really great album.
46. Nanci Griffith – Other Voices, Other Rooms (1993)
This is an album of songs written by other songwriters who have influenced Nanci’s career. There are numerous guest appearances on the album, including Emmy Lou Harris on “Across The Great Divide”, Arlo Guthrie on “Tecumseh Valley” (he joins faintly in the background to start and his voice grows more prominent on each verse until he essentially leads one of the verses toward the end to great effect), Bob Dylan (Harmonica) on “Boots of Spanish Leather”, Guy Clark on “Do-Re-Mi”, Janis Ian on “This Old Town”, Iris Dement on “Ten Degrees And Getting Colder” and Odetta and the Indigo Girls on “Wimoweh”. Just a terrific album of covers, released before the flood of cover song and tribute albums came out. Surprisingly it made it to #54 on the Billboard Pop Albums chart in 1993, even though it had no charting singles.
47. Neil Young – Re-act-or (1981)
This album can be seen as a continuation of the punk-influenced numbers of “Rust Never Sleeps”. Critical reception to the album was generally poor at the time, but one needs to remember that punk was still a somewhat divisive genre at the time. It is one of the most overlooked albums in Neil’s vast catalogue. But I think I’m drawn to it now because it has such a driving and primitive sound. It’s Neil’s classic rocker’s nod to The Sex Pistols and The Clash. I admit I wasn’t fond of it when it came out, but revisiting the record has given me a new perspective and appreciation. Once again, Neil shows why he has remained relevant for such a long time. “Opera Star”, “Surfer Joe”, “T-Bone”, “Rapid Transit” and especially “Shots” are ones to enjoy. Get reacquainted with this one.
48. Nick Lowe – The Impossible Bird (1994)
Lowe’s strengths shine here – clever lyrics and pop sensibilities. “Soulful Wind” is a wonderful tune and as catchy as anything he’s ever written. “The Beast in Me” is one of several sad, introspective numbers. And the terrific love song “True Love Travels On A Gravel Road” cannot be overlooked. There is really not a bad song on the record. One of his finer works. Treat yourself to this one.
49. Pablo Moses – Pave The Way (1981)
Pablo Moses is a roots reggae vocalist who first came on the scene with 1975’s “Revolutionary Dream”. Rarely thought of in the same vein as The Wailers, Steel Pulse, etc., Moses nevertheless delivers consistently good reggae on most of his efforts. “Pave The Way” is a must have for any reggae music fan. “It’s A Trick”, the title track, “A Step Before Hell”, “Last Straw”, “Sister” and especially “Africa Is For Me” are all outstanding tunes. I am lucky enough to have this one on vinyl. Get a hold of this record, turn the bass up and enjoy.
50. Paul Kantner, Grace Slick & David Freiberg – Baron Von Tollbooth & The Chrome Nun (1973)
Considered by some to be the last true psychedelic album ever made. Although many of the Jefferson Airplane members play on the album, the record is notable in that on most of the tracks, Jerry Garcia of the Grateful Dead performs lead guitar and Chris Ethridge of the Flying Burrito Brothers performs bass. The album contains many good tunes, including the title track, as well as “Fat Slick”, “Flowers Of The Night”, “Walkin'” and “Fishman”, all of which evoke that classic Airplane sound. “Your Mind Has Left Your Body” was the final studio track to feature Paul Kantner, Grace Slick, Jorma Kaukonen and Jack Casady until the 1989 Jefferson Airplane reunion album. That track is also notable because the Grateful Dead often performed an instrumental jam version of that song in concert during their 1973-74 tours.
So, this ends Part 1. Stay tuned for the Part 2, when we highlight the next 50 or so under appreciated albums.