First, Wanted to say that even though I didn't agree with most of the comments made so far, I sure have enjoyed reading them.
What makes a great album/artist for me is, first and foremost- "honesty". Second would have to be- "creativity and uniqueness". Third and probably most importantly- "that special something". I believe you also have to account for personal life experiences and collective memory of the listener(s) as a big push into wether a particular artist/ album stays with you forever or even makes one of those 'best of' lists. I have to admit I am not very interested in tech stuff or production. Nor am I particularly impressed with guitar solos or virtuosity in musicianship. Good guitar players are a dime a dozen. Just like those talent shows that are so popular on television at the moment; they belt out their chords instead of finding a true voice. It's hard to tell the difference between one from the other. I know that may sound a wee bit critical. I guess I'm a fan of good pop music rather than good craftsmanship. Don't get me wrong, I do believe you have to have knowledge in your craft and the ability to express it properly in order to make great art. I tend to view some albums/artists that are popular due to musicianship as good or great craftsmanship, not as good or great art. I think it was Montgomery Clift who was once quoted as saying something like, "To many 'so-called' artists are stretching the silver far to thin." I tend to agree and feel that there are to many craftsmen that call themselves artists and to many artists being called craftsmen. With all that said, it's just one person's opinion and taste(s) on the matter. Here's three gems I feel have been largely forgotten or ignored home (USA) and abroad. Just give me a decent melody with a great hook, throw in unforgettable lyrics and a chorus and I'm whistling Dixie and humming all day long.
1.) Lincoln-"Lincoln" (Slash/London Records) 1997 first and only recording from New York based band. Not to be confused with the obscure British outfit under same name.
2.) The Bats- (Flying Nun & Mammoth Records) 80'-90's. Any album by this New Zealand band is a forgotten gem. The best two-chord pop band on the planet. Lead singer Robert Scott is also in the NZ band, The Clean.
3.) The Chills- "Submarine Bells" (Slash Records) 1990. Another New Zealand band. For me, second only to "Pet Sounds" as one of the greatest "Pop" record of all time.
4.) Joe Henry- "Trampoline" (Mammoth Records) 1996. This record not only had me at first listen, it continues to inspire me. Critics are wrong, for me this is Joe's best!!!
Cheers everyone, happy big bird day! Kevin (from AZ)
