FOREWORD: Beginning in 1977, the yearly Top Favourite Alternative Albums charts reflect the anti-establishment success of burgeoning underground artists during the Sex Pistols-Clash-Ramones punk era and beyond. The first two Ramones albums could be found on Top Favourite Pop Albums – 1976.

 

FOREWORD: For a truly comprehensive representation of World Music from remote parts of earth’s hemisphere, please check ex-Village Voice music critic Robert Christgau’s recommendations at www.robertchristgau.com

These five selections will suffice for the uninitiated.

  3. DENNIS BROWN

FOREWORD: During the ’60s and ’70s, comedy albums made a deep impact on American society. But towards the ’80s, commercial radio and moronic corporate label politics kept any worthwhile non-musical acts from gaining major exposure. Perhaps HBO has filled in the gap.

FOREWORD: Amongst thousands of singles (45 RPM vinyl recordings), these compilations fill out my collection of rock, soul, country, punk, and more. Various artists, some well-known, others merely one or no-hit wonders, are featured. Towards the bottom of this list (from #80 on down) are less-known collections that contain a few ‘nuggets’ I wouldn’t be caught without – but little else.

FOREWORD: Beginning in 1988, these yearly hip-hop charts rank my favorite albums bought or serviced during each calendar year.