Pat, when it comes to those "top 10" things..it's nearly impossible, especially with the span of music some of us listen to.

I have another idea, and one I think we can keep going for a long time. Tell me what you think.

There are certain recordings/CD or vinyl in our respective collections, that lend themselves to the category of "gems"; complete works, to use a more exact term. I am not talking here about just good records or ones with some great tracks by artists that we like, but masterpieces in their genres, and encompassing a particular sound or theme; some are "concept" recordings, where there may be an introduction like an overture in a classical recording, middle parts and conclusion that ties into the original, either musical or lyrical statement(s). For example, I love all of DB's work, but TRIAGE to me falls into the category I am thinking about. Here the whole is in some ways superior to the sum of it's parts. Each song is fabulous, some more to my liking than others, but I can listen to it as a complete work, an artistic statement, with more impact in it's entirety than isolated tunes. Another example in the same vein might be Beatles' Sergeant Pepper. I know the list is large and varied, but here's what might be cool. Every once in awhile, if any of us would throw just ONE of these GEMS or works out to the others, as a suggestion, or recommendation for listening,together with an explanation of the theme, concept or unifying sound of such recording and why it has special significance to us, it could be VERY interesting. (sorry for the run-on sentence). Any genre of music should be included. For example if it's jazz, yeah Coltrane sure..but which one as a unifying or exemplary work? Which Dylan? etc...

I'll start off by throwing one out there:

TWELVE DREAMS of Dr.SARDONICUS, by Spirit.

Recorded in the early to mid 1970's by the California based pop band, the cover advertises a hallucinogenic experience, and I have to admit it has a "stoned" sound (NO you don't have to be high to listen to it..though..it might take you there in more ways than one). The tunes vary from folk-rock, funk, jazz inflections and soul sounds, but include recurring themes of life, death,environmental issues, and societal ills. Overall there is a hopefulness and joy, with some hysterically funny moments as well. Has the "hits" Nature's Way and Mr.Skin, but the whole thing ties together. The intro and parting words:

"You've got the world at your fingertips, No one can make it better than you".

Twelve Dreams is re-issued on CD together with "outtakes" (which could ruin some of what I just stated), but I prefer the original vinyl copy.

Any one else's favorites in this vein are more than welcome from time to time. I'd really be interested in hearing more from others.

Thanks Pat, for getting the ball rolling again,

Gene