The primary way I build my digital music collection is by maintaining a playlist called, “The Rotation.” On this list, I load albums of artists I’m interested in hearing; mostly new-to-me artists or albums. Because I need some organizational principle to conduct this survey, I go by the alphabetical listing of the artist. I typically move from earlier records to later records, although there are exceptions. If I’m excited to hear a new album by a favorite artist I’ll add it in an apparent random placement to hear it sooner than later. From this list I’ll select tracks to add to my collection. It’s rare that I DNF a record, and uncommon for me to not select a single track from it. I’ve been doing this for a while and am currently on my 9th trip around the alphabet. Below are the albums heard in a given session and what thoughts, if any, I have about them. These are mostly first impressions, so don’t expect in-depth analysis.
Asterisks (*) after the album title indicate that it is a new-to-me record.
Rosanne Cash: SOMEWHERE IN THE STARS (1982)*
Another one I couldn’t remember if I’d been through before, so I’m treating it like it’s new. I think it’s a shame that I wasn’t more aware or RC’s music before. A great voice with a great heritage.
Collected Tracks
- I Wonder
- Oh, Yes I Can
Roy Orbison: IN DREAMS (1963)*
This record feels like something from ten years earlier. Four of the twelve tracks contain the word “dream.” Dean Martin put out a record in the 50s in which every track was about sleeping or dreaming. The rest of the record is what you’d expect from Roy: mostly sad songs with strong vocals.
Collected Tracks
- Sunset
- Blue Bayou
Rufus: PARTY ‘TIL YOU’RE BROKE (1981)*
The first Rufus record after Chaka moved on. It’s got a late-disco vibe, but keeping the funky basslines.
Collected Tracks
- Tonight We Love
- Hold on to a Friend
- Love Is Taking Over
- Party ‘Til You’re Broke
Rufus Wainwright: TAKE ALL MY LOVES – 9 SHAKESPEARE SONNETS (2016)
I’ve been a RW fan for a long time, and a lover of Shakespeare for nearly as long. This isn’t my first time through this special record, but it’s been a VERY long time. This such a theatrical record that it’s better taken as a whole piece, so I don’t expect to take many tracks from it.
Collected Tracks
- Take All My Loves (Sonnet 40)
- When in Disgrace with Fortune and Men’s Eyes (Sonnet 29)
Rush: HEMISPHERES (1978)*
An album of long tracks: 2 per side. Didn’t take any for the regular collection, but I did add La Villa Strangiato to my Instrumentals playlist
Oh, this has “The Trees” on it. Never mind, it’s only one of my least favorite songs of all freaking time. Blech.
Collected Tracks
- La Villa Strangiato
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