#1 Record
by Big Star
#1 Record by Big Star hit me out of nowhere. The songwriting feels effortless, and the engineering is of the highest caliber (I haven't listened to the remastered version yet). Guitars and vocals shine with a clarity that sticks right in the chest. The wind section on 'The Feel' adds a vibe I didn't see coming. Even the drums have attitude, with the snare positioned on the right stereo side, as if it owns the place, which is an unusual placement. It is a tight, complete album with real personality. Hard to believe it slipped past me for so long, but I am glad it finally found me.