As part of a recent 1974 deep dive, I listened to 185 albums (gone up since I posted the video). The video features my 25 favorites. I’m also posting my list of my 74 favorite albums of the year. The first 25 will include the notes I used as the basis of the video. Even though I’m doing the music nerd ranked order, I wouldn’t get too hung up about that, there isn’t much of a difference between album #50 and album #74, or #31 and #49, also any album on my top 30 could have made my top 25. Ultimately it is just a list of albums I enjoyed listening to. Even though several of the albums address socially conscious themes, this list isn’t exclusively dedicated to protest music. In the coming days, I’ll also be recording a video of my 25 songs (and will post my list of 74 songs) and a video of the top 10 protest albums and songs.
5 Stars
1. Neil Young – On the Beach
I talked about this in a previous video, so I don’t want to get too off-topic like I did with Leonard Cohen, but I have a special connection with Neil Young because back in 1993, it was my first concert. It was a Neil Young/Pearl Jam double bill. At the time I was more of a Pearl Jam fan but got into Neil after being blown away by him live. One thing I appreciate about Neil is that he is an uncompromising artist who does whatever the hell he wants, commercial expectations be damned. This particular album is the 2nd of what is often referred to as the Ditch trilogy, which was a response to the massive success of his 1972 album Harvest and his first and only US Billboard number-one hit “Heart of Gold”. He didn’t want to become complacent, repeat himself, and take the path expected of him. That doesn’t mean that the album is inaccessible, the songs stand alone and they have aged well. If anything it is a very relatable album on a human level expressing the alienation and flight or fight response that many grapple with. The album also features pointed critiques on environmental issues, which would become even more direct later in his career.
2. Joni Mitchell – Court and Spark
This album finds Joni starting to delve a bit more into jazz, which she did start exploring a bit on her previous 1972 album For The Roses. Her subsequent albums get even a bit more experimental with jazz. This album hits the sweet spot between the folky singer-songwriter of earlier work and the jazz experimentation of her mid-late 70s period. Both camps of Joni fans can potentially connect to this album. It is a first-class display of her genius as a musician, singer, songwriter, and producer. There is a reason why Joni is one of the most important artists of all time.
3. Big Star – Radio City
I love Big Star, all three of their albums are 5 stars. Part of the reason why their albums commercially flopped is because they didn’t fit in with the proggy excess of the time. Also, even though I already loved the album before the deep dive, it was a breath of fresh air for me, because a lot of the rock music of 74 bordered on too proggy and polished for my taste. There is a certain genuineness and immediacy to the music of Big Star and this album has just the right balance between eccentric and accessible, and there are legit catchy tunes. This album is a fine exhibit of why they were a foundational power pop act, and you can hear their influence on modern-day indie rock. “I never travel far without a little Big Star.”
4. Jorge Ben – A Tábua de Esmeralda
I recently got into MPB, and based on my limited exposure this is the best MPB album that I ever listened to. Even though I’m a lyric guy, and I’m not really into translating non-English lyrics, I like to research a little to understand the context. Based on my limited research the album deals with three main themes – blackness, mysticism, and alchemy. Also, some of the few English lyrics refer to Jesus Christ, so there is a religious aspect. But even if you’re not into any of that and have no clue what Ben is singing, the music is so gorgeous and majestic that none of it matters. It hits hard on an emotional level.
4.5 Stars
5. Leonard Cohen – New Skin for the Old Ceremony
In high school, I had to do an independent study unit on a poet. Initially, I was thinking of either Chuck D or KRS 1, but the teacher vetoed both. Then I was thinking Bod Dyaln, but once again no, because he was primarily considered a songwriter. Then I was thinking T.S. Eliot who I knew nothing about, but Dylan cited him as an influence and made reference to him in his lyrics, but another student already picked him. But then the teacher suggested Leonard Cohen, since he got his start as a published poet. The teacher also suggested that as part of the unit I do a comparative study on Leonard Cohen’s “Closing Time” contrasting it with Eliot’s Wasteland, fascinating stuff, lots of parallels. But I’m getting off-topic because “Closing Time” isn’t on this album. But “Chelsea Hotel” is, and through my research, I learned that the song was about Janis Joplin. But along with a song about Leonard getting freaky with Janis, it also features provocative commentary on religion, politics, and other philosophical musings. As an accomplished poet, very few come even remotely close when it comes to lyrical quality.
6. Joni Mitchell and the L.A. Express – Miles of Aisles
When doing a list like this there is always the debate of whether or not to include live albums. At times it could come across as a cheat because at times it is kind of like the greatest hits live. This album features many of the hits, but the work of the jazz fusion band L.A. Express adds a different dynamic to several of the tunes, so they become stand-alone versions. The stripped-down solo tunes are also lovely. It also featured a couple of previously unreleased tunes, which is cool. Also, as a bit of trivia, the live version of “Big Yellow Taxi” from this album was a bigger US Chart hit than the studio version. I also enjoy Joni’s playful interplay with the audience, you can tell she was enjoying herself, which you don’t get with the studio versions. Overall a fine showcase for her artistic brilliance.
7. Gil Scott-Heron/Brian Jackson – Winter in America
This is the first official collaboration between Gil Scott-Heron and Brian Jackson, with Gil looking after the lyrics and vocals, and Jackson looking after the music. Jackson deserves his billing, and his contributions should not be minimized. He creates the perfect canvas for Gil to work with. This album is a bit of a departure for Gil because it features less spoken word and proto-rapping. The only straight-up proto-rap tune is the explicitly political “H20gate Blues”. But Gil has a smooth soulful singing voice and knows how to emote and convey the message of the song. Also, on a couple of the tunes, he sings with a lyrical flow that borders on a rap-sung hybrid. You can hear his influence on modern hip-hop. But of course, the main reason to listen to Gil is the lyrics and his considerable gifts as a social commentator are on fine display.
8. Dadawah – Peace and Love
This is my favorite reggae album of 1974, and it is a cool discovery. He also released two other albums in 1974 under the name Ras Micheal and The Sons of Negus, which are stripped down and feature more communal drumming and chanting, but they are also worth checking out. This album features 4 songs in 38 minutes. It almost works as a suite, but I’m not 100% sure if that was the intent. Even though it is well received on Rate Your Music (RYM), there isn’t much info online. But thematically it works well as a cohesive whole and listening to the entire thing in proper track order enhances the listening experience. Even though it is not as stripped down as his two other albums, it still heavily features African drumming which helps create a hypnotic vibe. Even if you are not into the spirituality aspect of it, you can still vibe with the music.
9. Gordon Lightfoot – Sundown
At times easy listening is used in a derogatory way, and there was a time when I was younger when I viewed it as my parent’s music or even worse my grandparents’ music. But my views have evolved and Lightfoot is easy listening in the best possible way. This album has a cool chillout vibe and something about the music makes me feel warm and fuzzy inside. But I also really appreciate how despite the laid-back vibe of the music, there is a depth to the lyrics and even a sense of darkness. I love the juxtaposition. I also love Gord’s vocals. Also, my favorite song on the album, which I don’t want to spoil because it will be on my song list (may or may not be the title track), has a certain badassness to it. But I’ll talk about that a bit more on the song list. But I love the album and I don’t know what else to say.
10. Bob Marley & The Wailers – Natty Dread
Even though I’m not sure it makes my list of top five Marley albums, it is fantastic and a showcase of all of the things that he does well. It has irresistible grooves plenty, it has slower bedroom jams, it has spiritual tunes, and of course hard-hitting political tunes. Each of these things he does better on other albums, but this might be his most balanced album. It is an exceptional starter platter.
11. Gene Clark – No Other
When the album was released it was considered a commercial disappointment. I can see why. From the perspective of the record exec who only sees dollar signs, how do you market it? It didn’t fit in with the James Taylor singer-songwriter vibe of the time. It is country adjacent but didn’t fit in with what was happening within the mainstream. It also contained elements of southern rock, soul, and gospel but not enough to be embraced by any of those demographics. Then there is the question, where is the hit? There is not much in the way of a catchy chorus, and there isn’t much in the way of hooks. But why it flopped is probably the same reason why it is now held in high regard. Because Clark effectively blends different genres and refuses to chase trends it creates a timeless sound that transcends time or genre or time. Also, lush music arrangements and poetic lyrics that can’t be reduced to hooks and choruses make the album stand out as a unique and immersive listening experience.
12. Funkadelic – Standing on the Verge of Getting It On
This funk album is cool because it is genre-bending. I don’t know if this will be a controversial statement, but this is my favorite hard rock album of 74. It gets heavy at times, and that is because of the epic guitar soloing of Eddie Hazel, the MVP of the album. This seriously might be one of my all-time favorite guitar albums. With the possible exception of “Jimmy’s Got A Little Bitch In Him,” which challenges the homophobia of the day, the album doesn’t contain the political messaging of some of their other albums, and the lyrics take a backseat to the grooves. But when the album grooves this hard, who cares?
13. Betty Davis – They Say I’m Different
1974 was a good year for funk and this album is a good example of how I like my funk. The groove is gritty and edgy. I also love the crazy badass vocal delivery of Betty, I wouldn’t want to mess with her. It also might be the most raunchy album of the year, which I guess you can discuss whether that is good or bad, but I dig it.
14. Residents – Meet the Residents
This might be the most divisive album on this list. It is one of those albums that people are going to love or hate. I guess there could be a middle ground, those who are puzzled and confused and wonder, what in the hell did I listen to? Quite often with outsider music artists break musical conventions because they don’t know any better and there is sincerity and genuineness. In the case of The Residents, you get a sense that they know what rules they are breaking and why. This is meant to be challenging and subversive. It opens with a deconstruction of “These Boots Are Made For Walking” which creates an ominous, almost apocalyptic feel. Not for everyone, but to me it is compelling.
15/16: Sparks – Propaganda/Kimono My House
I’m mentioning these two albums together because it was a coin toss. Both albums are a fine showcase of the Mael brother’s quirky brilliance. It features the crazy falsetto of Russell. I recall reading one review that aptly described Russell’s vocals as a blend of Marc Bolan and Tiny Tim. His brother Ron is a skilled composer who writes intricate and innovative music arrangements, along with clever lyrics. Both albums represent the band at their creative peak. I also consider these two albums ahead of their time, and you can hear the influence on different forms of indie and alternative music.
17. Lucio Battisti – Anima Latina
This album is the 2nd of three non-English albums on my list. Because I’m a lyric guy, sometimes there is a disconnect if I don’t understand the lyrics. I also don’t find reading the translated lyrics to be the same. But if I emotionally connect to the music and I’m made to believe what the singer is singing is important the lyrics don’t matter. This album by the Italian singer-songwriter is majestic, and he creates a dreamy soundscape. Maybe I’m crazy, but elements of this almost sound like trip-hop, and musically is ahead of its time.
18. Frank Zappa – Apostrophe (‘)
Let’s follow up god dam gorgeousness with some bat-shit craziness. Frank Zappa is a demented musical genius. The album opens up insanely strong with the first 4 songs which make up the zany “Don’t Eat The Yellow Snow” Suite, which I will discuss more on the song list. But the rest of the album is solid as well. Part of why he can get away with the ridiculous and juvenileness is because of the high level of musicianship. But the album also displays an emotional depth, with “Uncle Remus”, which is almost out of place, but it is such a powerful anti-racism protest tune (will most likely be included in the protest song list video I plan on doing) and it does provide a reprieve from the wackiness.
19. Gram Parsons – Grievous Angel
The album does border on a bit too twangy for my taste, but when everything else about it is just so gorgeous I can forgive it. The lyrics and vocals are impeccably blended to create a haunting and emotional listening experience. Also, the angelic vocals of Emmylou Harris and the way that Gram harmonizes with her is a thing of beauty.
20. Toots & The Maytals – In the Dark
1974 was a really good year for reggae, and this album features everything I want in a reggae album, irresistible grooves, and many tunes feature the positive socially conscious lyrics that I like in my reggae. Also, you can make an argument for Toots being the most soulful reggae vocalist. There are moments on the album where he borders on full-on R&B crooner mode.
21. Tuca – Drácula I Love You
I’ve fairly recently been getting into MPB, which translates into Brazilian Popular Music. Even though popular music is in the title, MPB is more eclectic and adventurous than American pop music. Tuca seems to have a relatively low profile. But based on my limited research she had some success as a musician, songwriter, and arranger, most notably working with the internationally successful French chanteuse Francoise Hardy. This album is a fine display of her ability as a musician and arranger. The production is first-rate, and even by MPB standards, the music is genre-bending. What stands out the most to me is the aspect of the music that could be the most divisive, and it is Tuca’s vocals. It is quirky but powerful. I don’t know what she is singing because I don’t speak Portuguese, I guess I could try to look it up, but I kind of like not knowing. In my mind, Dracula could be symbolic of a toxic relationship. Also, based on the limited research I did, apparently Tuca had a crush on a woman in a heterosexual relationship, so maybe that attraction sucked the life out of her. But whatever it is, I believe what she is singing.
22. Luie Luie – Touchy
This is a lo-fi DIY self-released album that initially only sold 25 copies, but it has been re-released and found a cult following with fans of outsider music. The album’s concept is that people have lost human contact, and the Touchy is a new dance that encourages human contact to help bring people together. Luie plays all of the instruments and is a competent musician. But the songs are repetitive and aren’t great. But part of what makes the album is the spoken words intro. Even though they are probably not meant to be funny, I get a kick out of them, and it makes me happy. Despite the quirks, Luie does seem to be sincere in his intent, which makes it more enduring. It was a tough album to know how to rate and rank, but out of the albums I listened to from 1974 this is the one that brought me the most joy. I even re-listened a few more times to see if the novelty would wear off, but every time I listened, it still made me happy.
4 stars
23. Millie Jackson – Caught Up
This is an ambitious R&B concept album about a woman having an affair with a married man. Side A is from the perspective of the mistress, while Side B is from the wife’s perspective. It features a mix of Jackson’s emotive vocals and raunchy spoken word, which helps thematically tie everything together. Sometimes concept albums can become convoluted, but this album successfully explores complex but relatable human emotions through the telling of a simple story.
24. Richard and Linda Thompson – I Want to See the Bright Lights Tonight
This album is a solid mix of folk and rock influences, featuring some superb guitar work by Richard. I also love the vocal interplay of Richard and Linda, and I appreciate the moodier musical arrangement which adds drama to the introspective and at times darker lyrical content.
25. Black Heat – No Time to Burn
One of the new discoveries during the dive, this album is an obscure funky gem. Gritty and edgy, the album features several tunes that feature incisive social commentary reflecting on the race relations of that time. But it balances it out with fun, playful tunes (including one that will make my top 25 song list).
- 26. Randy Newman – Good Old Boys
- 27. Stevie Wonder – Fulfillingness’ First Finale
- 28. John Cale – Fear
- 29. Bert Jansch – L.A. Turnaround
- 30. Bob Dylan / The Band – Before the Flood
- 31. Fela Kuti & The Africa 70 – Confusion
- 32. Minnie Riperton – Perfect Angel
- 33. Miles Davis – Get Up With It
- 34. Willie Nelson – Phases and Stages
- 35. Jackson Browne – Late for the Sky
- 36. New York Dolls – Too Much Too Soon
- 37. Parliament – Up for the Down Stroke
- 38. Pharoah Sanders – Love in Us All
- 39. Betty Wright – Danger High Voltage
- 40. Bob Dylan – Planet Waves
- 41. Joe Henderson featuring Alice Coltrane – The Elements
- 42. Roxy Music – Country Life
- 43. Zappa / Mothers – Roxy & Elsewhere
- 44. Del Jones’ Positive Vibes – Del Jones’ Positive Vibes
- 45. Ras Michael and The Sons of Negus – Nyahbinghi
- 46. Millie Jackson – I Got to Try It One Time
- 47. Fela Kuti & The Africa 70 – Alagbon Close
- 48. The Meters – Rejuvenation
- 49. John Coltrane – Interstellar Space
- 50. 신중현과 엽전들 [Shin Joong Hyun & Yup Juns] – 신중현과 엽전들
- 51. Hawkwind – Hall of the Mountain Grill
- 52. Graham Central Station – Graham Central Station
- 53. Eno – Taking Tiger Mountain (By Strategy)
- 54. Raul Seixas – Gita
- 55. Cartola – Cartola
- 56. Bill Withers – +’Justments
- 57. Supertramp – Crime of the Century
- 58. Nico – The End
- 59. The Staple Singers – City in the Sky
- 60. Deep Purple – Burn
- 61. Elis Regina & Antônio Carlos Jobim – Elis & Tom
- 62. Dolly Parton – Jolene
- 63. Ross Ryan – My Name Means Horse
- 64. Bridget St John – Jumblequeen
- 65. Bobby Bland – Dreamer
- 66. Lou Reed – Rock n Roll Animal
- 67. Ann Peebles – I Can’t Stand the Rain
- 68. Taj Mahal – Mo’ Roots
- 69. Kraftwerk – Autobahn
- 70. George Duke – Feel
- 71. King Tubby – Dub From the Roots
- 72. Van Morrison – It’s Too Late to Stop Now
- 73. Fenton Robinson – Somebody Loan Me a Dime
- 74. Bruce Haack – Captain Entropy