#42 The Cure - Disintegration

Elektra/Asylum Records, 1989

New Wave, Alternative Rock

This record hardly needs an introduction. It's probably the most famous Cure album, and I'm pretty sure it's the only one I own.

I really like this record, and it's been a mainstay of my collection for a long time, in part because it's one of those records that folks like to put on the turntable late at night when the party's winding down and there's just a few of you left, clinging the final threads of consciousness and companionship remaining in the night. In my minds eye, I picture sitting around the table at Lawrence Street with Alfred and Peter and Martin and Melissa - it was a good year for that kind of listening.

For me at least, this record is a mood, so I have to be in the right headspace to really enjoy it. When I put this on, it was a little preemptive, so I didn't listen to the whole thing. It will make another appearance at the proper time.

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#58 The Monks - Black Time

Reissue on International Polydor, 2011 60s Garage Rock, Psych Garage I picked up this album in Toronto - maybe on 2013? Around then, anyway. I was doing a deep dive into early Psychedelic Garage bands and this one came up on some archive, with a fascinating story. Apparently (and I have not done any kind of updated fact check, so I'm going on what I read back then) these guys were American GIs in Vietnam who defected and ended up in Germany, where they shaved their pates and started this rock n roll band. As far as albums go, it's an interesting piece, but not my favourite record in the genre. I like all the bass and rolling beats, but some of the lyrics rub me the wrong way. I recognize, of course, that it is a product of a time and place. Regardless, I like to spin it now and again, so it makes the cut.

#76 The Count Basie Trio - For the First Time

Pablo Records, 1975 Jazz This record has become a staple in our household. Stu and I both love jazz, so we play it often. I had forgotten I owned this, believe it or not --- it must have been gifted to me by Dad with a few other records. As such, it was a delightful surprise when I pulled out and gave it a spin. This record is banger right from the beginning. High energy, great sound, interesting variety of tunes. Count Basie is a piano master, and this album really showcases that skill. Sometimes I think trios are the best, because everyone has a chance to really shine. If you are a jazz fan, make sure to give this record a listen.

#26 Boney M. - Nightflight to Venus

Hansa, 1978 Genre: Disco This is another party classic, and made its appearance on Halloween. Who doesn't love a good dance to "Rasputin"? I think this record is remarkable in many ways, not the least of which is the catchy tunes. The situational background is also interesting: A German musician brings together a group of Carribean performers to tour Europe, make a video in the Societ Union, sing in English, and record a record that will be a huge hit in the UK and North America. There's lots of fascinating layers of culture and history there.

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