[A]n essential reference for any collection strong in popular music history.
Midwest Book Review/Internet Bookwatch
Smith knows this is a subjective process, and he does not expect everyone to agree with him. His criteria for inclusion are not simply commercial success or critical acclaim, but also the degree to which a recording inspired others to imitate it, follow the direction it led,or take up music themselves….this guide provides a though-provoking look at the development of the dominant art form of the last fifty years. It will serve as a useful selection or listening guide for wide range of audiences from high school to adult.
Lawrence Looks at Books
In his preface, Smith (music journalist and professor of cultural criticism, U. of British Colombia) emphasizes that the albums listed in this volume were chosen not for their status as classics or popular favorites, but for their impact on American music and popular culture (though not all the artists are American). The 100 albums that made the grade were all released after the advent of the 12 LP in 1948. Each entry contains a description of the album and its influence; as well as justification, in the form of critical responses, an examination of the scope of its influence, and the author's opinions, for its inclusion. Entries are organized chronologically into seven eras of significant change. This reference includes a timeline of recorded music, an appendix profiling ten important record producers and ten albums that almost made the list, and alphabetical and chronological indexes.
Reference & Research Book News
The best thing about any Top 100 list or Best Album Ever magazine story is the inevitable rash of arguments that will start over why, say, The Beatles' <i>Revolver</i> isn't included, or why more Stevie Wonder didn't make the grade….[a]uthor Chris Smith does a fine job of putting his 100 choices into historical context. The book is broken down chronologically; the oldest album dissected is the Anthology of American Folk Music from 1952, and the newest is 1999's Slim Shady LP by Eminem. Smith dedicates about three pages to each album, and he also includes sections on significant producers and albums that almost made the cut.
The Salt Lake Tribune