I'm no Mr. Langlois, but like everyone, I have my favourites. I like albums. I like the thought that goes into creating several songs that are meant to be heard together in a chosen order. Maybe I don't LOVE every single song, but I can appreciate the creative decision-making. Then you get comfortable with the order, like an old friend, when you listen to a whole album, you anticipate what comes next. I also like a Greatest Hits compilation, and have a penchant for the singer-songwriter. Click on the album cover to bring you to a YouTube playlist (excuse some of the quality, but you'll get a taste of these artists). Sample enough songs, maybe you'll buy the albums like I did. Old school baby. I've still got CDs, but maybe you're a fan of vinyl... This was a fun exercise, almost like the QuestLove music autobiography idea. This compilation is not in chronological order, rather I've gone with albums I return to over and over again, especially in the last 10 years or so (with the exception of the first one, a new obsession). How would you chart your life in music?
You're probably way ahead of me. I just 'discovered' Dallas Green (City and Colour) by watching Stronger Together, Tous Ensemble. Now I can't get enough. Especially of this album. Fingers crossed for a second. | I discovered this album because I loved the song "The Blower's Daughter" from the movie Closer and couldn't get it out of my head. | I heard "The Rising" on CHOM, and I loved the discussion of this concept album, a processing of post 9/11. When I am able to run, this album is a must. Especially "Mary's Place" ... Obvi. Plus he's the Boss! |
Probably one of my favourite voices of all time. And the man behind my one of my favourite songs "In Your Eyes". Remember: I'm a child of the 80s. | One of the greatest singer-songwriters of all time. You'll recognize the Gilmore Girls' theme song, and Carole KIng also guest starred on the show. Link to her memoir here. | Crowded House Woodface. Because of "Weather with You". Because I love a good harmony and those Finn brothers got it. Because I love, and miss, Australia. |
Cold Play X & Y. I first heard this album traveling with a friend in Spain. It has one of the greatest songs of all time I think "Fix You" which reminded me of my own father's death. I listened to it often recovering from a concussion. A beautiful, healing album. | U2 because U2. I bought this for "Beautiful Day", the title track, and "Stuck in a Moment..." which in the 2000s had themes that resonated with me about hope, optimism, recovering yourself, and authenticity. It's a great album for reinvention, regeneration. | Also I love Canadian content. No idea how I fell upon Feist, but this album is so gorgeous, melodic, and just plain good company. "Inside Out" was a radio hit, but I love "Secret Heart". Longing and real. Great for a quiet night, or to cook to. |
Bought this album because of the song "Somewhere Only We Know" from the gorgeous and philosophical romantic movie The Lake House with Keanu Reeves (obviously) and Sandra Bullock. Haunting. Love the whole thing. | Sade. Nuff said. Part II here. There is simply no smoother voice. Impossible to listen too many times. Just do yourself a favour. | More Canadian. Love this album when I need motivation. Something about her voice and beat that is comforting, gutsy, and makes me feel stronger. Obviously you're noticing I like a little rasp in a voice... |
I first heard "Try" while at McGill the first time around. I've seen them in concert five times, and I'm not really a concert goer. Authors of another of my favourite songs "Til I am Myself Again". Part II here. | Van Morrison. A Fave. And the first victim of me trying to make a mixed tape, vinyl to cassette. Ouch. Still the only person I've made a playlist of songs of. They're not all on one album. What's a girl to do? | Legends. Obvi. My favourite side starts with "Seven Bridges Road." Favourite song "Wasted Time". You'll find Don Henley on Part II as well. He's such a thoughtful songwriter, and has a great voice. |