#190 - The Village Green Preservation Society, The Kinks

"As the opening title song says, the Kinks -- meaning Ray himself, in this case -- were for preserving "draft beer and virginity," and throughout the rest of the album, he creates a series of stories, sketches, and characters about a picturesque England that never really was. It's a lovely, gentle album, evoking a small British country town, and drawing the listener into its lazy rhythms and sensibilities." (allmusic guide)

#189 - Girlfriend, Matthew Sweet

"Matthew Sweet's third album is a remarkable artistic breakthrough. Grounded in the guitar pop of the Beatles, Big Star, Byrds, R.E.M., and Neil Young, Girlfriend melds all of Sweet's influences into one majestic, wrenching sound that encompasses both the gentle country-rock of "Winona" and the winding guitars of the title track and "Divine Intervention." Sweet's music might have recognizable roots, but Girlfriend never sounds derivative; thanks to his exceptional songwriting, the album is a fresh, original interpretation of a classic sound." (allmusic guide)

#188 - Can't Buy A Thrill, Steely Dan

"This album started it all for Steely Dan. Tracks such as "Reeling In The Years" were considered ahead of their time, yet appealed to everyone from straight-ahead jazz aficionados to barhopping rock fans. Some tracks, such as "Dirty Work," feature David Palmer on lead vocals rather than bandleader Donald Fagen." (real music guide)


#187 - Closing Time, Tom Waits

"Before he started putting out all those weird (and great) records with midgets on the cover, Waits was interested in the heartbreak of the American Dream and the smell of barrooms in the daytime as this, his debut record, suggests. The first cut is a real stunner, way better than the Eagles cover of it, while the song "Martha" is absolutely one of his finest moments." (real music guide)

#186 - Disraeli Gears, Cream

"Sure, it sounds like it was recorded with a pillow over the mic, but Disreali Gears is still one of the best blues-rock albums ever produced. The trio of Eric Clapton, Jack Bruce and Ginger Baker mixes up acid visions, heavenly vocals and ripping leads, creating music of depth and complete heavy-osity." (real music guide)