To describe this album, it's a trip, especially when you actually get to the transitions. Every track has something strong about it; from the jazz elements in "Us and Them", to the operatic vocals in "Great Gig", there is always something to be satisfied with here. It sure is a great thing that I started off here, as I for sure needed to revisit this one again.
This is one of the most underrated bands, even during the 60s invasion. Sure, there were songs that featured experimentation, but this has a more garage vibe to it compared to the Beatles' pop and the Stones' bluesy rock. If a little forgettable, there are still really good songs such as Rainy Day in June. Overall, improvements are needed, but this album is still great.
One of Soul's progenitors, Ray Charles, did a great job on this album. I wasn't really fascinated with the album's beginning, but it did grow on me as the minutes passed. I particularly enjoyed Ragtime Band and Just for a Thrill. One thing I can say is, although I really appreciate the musicianship here (and Charles is a great pianist for sure), a lot of the songs just didn't capture my attention much. All I can say is; great album, just need to get used to the sounds more.
In 1982, this record was released, and was proved to be very influential on many artists that followed. Flash and the Furious Five have made their music still hold up today with great, funky beats and masterful songwriting in tracks such as "It's Nasty and the ever-so influential "The Message". Although tracks such as "Dreamin'" really don't fit the flow of the album well-enough, despite being good songs IMO. Overall, "The Message" still continues to prove its relevance and influence today, making it a great record.
Over the recent years, as more people have become political activists, Bruce Springsteen has still been in the scene for a long time. This album has been considered darker than others, as shown by the themes explored. Springsteen's storytelling influenced by those such as Bob Dylan have shown the most strength here, as songs such as "Highway Patrolman" and "Reason to Believe" prove. Unfortunately, the actual music is just good, which weakens the album a lot. Nebraska shows a more thoughtful side from Bruce, which is ruined by the "average" music.
Prior to listening, I was expecting less than what I got. This album just reeks of pure rock'n'roll. The album starts off with the fantastic opening known as "Brown Sugar", later leading into classics such as "I Got the Blues" and "Can't You Hear Me Knocking?" With a wide variety of instruments such as the keyboards (used prior?) and even some jazz instruments. I am satisfied with getting more than I expected, and will admit the Stones are better than what I thought.
