29 in 2009 - The Beatles: "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band"

The Beatles: Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band

Originally Released: June 1, 1967

Genres: Rock, Psychedelic Rock

Rating: 8 out of 10 Stars

So here it is, the album which makes it to the top of nearly every best-ever list. Quite a daunting thing for the average blogger to review without mentioning the cultural/historical impact of the record. But then again, I am not the average blogger - so I won't mention it.

Taken out of the context of the era, where The Beatles were in their career, and how influential it became, Sgt. Pepper's is still a wonderful album! And yes, believe it or not, this was my first time to ever listen to the album - ever! The only song on this album that I had previously heard was "Getting Better" which I believe I saw on a TV advertisement. Weak sauce, sure. I understand this. I am a failed music blogger.

Despite this, I would say I'm at least passingly familiar with The Beatles' earlier, poppier, more-commercial work. It is with that passing familiarity that I've always said, "Meh, I'm just not much of a Beatles fan." Blasphemy!! Cue the pitchforks and torches. Well, Sgt. Pepper's is far removed from the band's earlier career, and I like it all the better because of this.

My personal breakdown, interjected into this middle of this article for kicks:

Great Songs

"Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" (Track 1 & Reprise)

"Getting Better"

"She's Leaving Home"

"When I'm Sixty-Four"

"Lovely Rita"

"A Day in the Life"

Good Songs

"A Little Help From My Friends"

"Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds"

"Fixing a Hole"

Okay Songs

"Being for the Benefit of Mr. Kite"

Bad Songs

"Within You Without You"

"Good Morning, Good Morning"

I'm sure someone could argue with me about the value of "Within You Without You." Someone could also argue the value of "2 Girls 1 Cup," and honestly I'd be more-inclined to listen to this that. It's just not a very good song. Unique and experimental, absolutely! Just not good.

I once read a review (perhaps from AMG, not sure) that compared Of Montreal's The Gay Parade to this album, and I certainly see the similarities. Of Montreal is my favorite band, mind you, so listening to this album was a long-awaited treat. Of course, I prefer The Gay Parade due to its consistency in tone and, in my opinion, perfect tracklist; but Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band is still a fantastic album! What The Gay Parade lacks in variety, musicality and polish, it has in spades. Both are classic albums, and I'm happy to have finally listened to both of them.

I'm also happy that the next time someone searches for "2 girls 1 cup" and "the beatles" in google, I'll likely be the top result! Score!!!

Verdict: Classic