My Take
In my case, the albums that have become my favorites are the ones I feel I absolutely have to listen to from start to finish. Of course, there are standout tracks, and some, though good, might pale in comparison to others. But it’s the experience of listening to the entire album that captivates me.
Examples:
- “Flowerboy” by Tyler, The Creator.
- “Affinity” by Haken
- “Brat” by Charli XCX
- The debut album by Gentle Giant
What are your favorite albums and why?
Pretty much. I wouldn’t presume to say "masterpieces " but easily the most important quality of my favorite albums is that they’re strong from start to finish.
A few that come to me right off:
Lloyd Cole and the Commotions - Rattlesnakes
Fountains of Wayne - Fountains of Wayne
The Presidents of the United States of America - The Presidents of the United States of America
XTC - Black Sea
They Might Be Giants - Flood
The Rainmakers - Flirting with the Universe
Was (Not Was) - What Up Dog?
Morphine - Cure for Pain
I’ll admit, I’ve not listened to much of Fountains of Wayne’s first album, more the others. They’ve been one of my favorites about as long as I can remember though. I tend to resonate with a new song of theirs every year or two. Do you have any favorites off their first album?
It’s hard to pick a favorite - that’s the point. Every one of them is good.
That said, the first one that popped into my head was Leave the Biker, and Survival Car, Joe Rey, Radiation Vibe, Sick Day and Sink to the Bottom come to mind quickly and easily.
I second Flood.
Third. Perfect album.
Presidents! Hell yeah, that’s such a fun album
They just might be my all time favorite band.
They’re one that I really want to see live, but I don’t think it’s going to happen. Seems like the band members all moved on to other things
You can still get some of the PUSA goodness by checking out Chris Ballew, he’s been putting out some nice records as a solo act. I love his 7th album, Void Crusher.