5-23-11 Listography: Albums by a Band

I'm playing along with Kate's Listography and coming up with my top five albums by a band. Not to split hairs, but at first I was limiting myself to, well, bands -- you know, as in a group that is not backing up a solo artist who gets his or her name on the album. But after perusing the lists, I decided this was a listy-group that isn't going to be picky like that, which I appreciate, and immediately went to my favorite albums, which all happen to be solo artists with amazing bands behind them. Sorry Genesis, you would have made the cut otherwise.

I'm also lazy and cheap, which is why the majority of my "album" purchases are Greatest Hits. I excluded those, which really just results in a top five artist list, and concentrated on which albums I own that have climbed up into millions (note: hyperbole) of total album plays according to my iTunes.

Also, looking at everyone else's lists, I will say I am probably odd girl out here, but that suits me fine.



1. Stevie Ray Vaughn Live at the El Mocambo (Texas Flood)

It's early, it's raw, it's live. And "Texas Flood" is just awesome. RIP Stevie.


2. Bonnie Raitt Longing in Their Hearts

This is one I listen to several times a week. Bonnie has a way about her phrasing that makes me have to stop what I'm doing and listen to the story of the song again and again.

3. Ray LaMontagne Til the Sun Turns Black

And now, for something completely different . . . I love all of his albums, but this one tops the list. Fantastic, quiet stuff. 

4. John Mayer Continuum

John Mayer, just when I can't stand reading another word coming out of your mouth in an interview, I listen to Continuum again and think, "John, if you can make music like this, grow up already."


5. Suzanne Vega Solitude Standing

This album does not age. And the stories are magical: poetry set to music. I wish more people knew this album rather than the single "Luka". And "Tom's Diner" should forever be sung a cappella.