Synopsis
What are the 100 greatest rock 'n' roll albums of all time? In its popular, provocative series, VH1 offers up its own definitive list of the greatest albums ever recorded. Here, in an essential book for any music freak, geek, or fan just looking for a guide to fill in the blanks on the next trip to the CD store, are the reasons why. Various writers working in diverse styles, from the utterly personal to the academic, explain why these albums matter and what distinguishes them from the many thousands of black platters and silver discs that have been released since the birth of rock 'n' roll. Featuring artist commentary and rare nuggets of info, highlighting key tracks and including album credits, these essays will have you seeking out some of the albums you missed and rushing back to old favorites to listen to them with new ears.
Reviews
A companion to the VH1 show of the same name, Hoye's compilation of the 100 greatest albums of all time is a solid effort in the "best of" listmania (a phenomenon for which VH1, which has covered greatest songs, artists, teen idols and pop icons, must claim some responsibility). After sending ballots to over 700 songwriters, disc jockeys, radio gurus and musicians ranging from Art Garfunkel to Britney Spears, the station's powers that be tabulated and compiled a ranked list of the best of the best in rock and roll history. From the Beatles (who reign with both the number one album, Revolver, and the most albums on the list) to Elvis, from NWA (who could forget Straight Outta Compton?) to Lauren Hill and Curtis Mayfield-all the big shots of the last 50 years are here. Colloquial thumbnail essays by VH1 producers, pop aficionados and even Harlan Coben accompany each selection: the one on Bridge Over Troubled Water argues that hints of Simon & Garfunkel's break-up can be heard in certain tracks, while the one on Led Zeppelin's eponymous first album hails it as gasoline doused "on the formerly flickering flame of English blues." Spiked with celebrity quotes, but written by the everyman, each essay offers a personal flash of recognition for the individual sounds, collaborative efforts and occasionally even the social implications of each album. Enjoyable for a straight read-through but even better for browsing, this little book should prompt readers to add some missing essentials to their collection and pop in a few old favorites to listen to anew.
Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.
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