Listmania!
Ten from Ken
Out of the BlueOut of the Blue by Electric Light Orchestra
Buy used from: £3.99
My all-time no. 1 Desert Island disc. This is a Perfect album. I bought it on vinyl in 1977 and on CD years later. 4 classic hits and "Concerto For A Rainy Day". A masterpiece.
AndreaAndrea by Andrea Bocelli
Buy new: £6.99 / Used from: £6.97
I don't speak Italian, don't understand a word of the language. But who needs to understand when this guy is so wonderful. He could sing the contents of the Rome telephone directory and sound great.
Bat Out of HellBat Out of Hell by Meat Loaf
Buy new: £8.81 / Used from: £12.00
Call it corny but this album defined a generation. I love it not only for that reason but for the fact that it is still a work of art.
Rumours: Expanded and RemasteredRumours: Expanded and Remastered by Fleetwood Mac
Buy new: £4.98 / Used from: £3.86
Born out of deep personal problems and razor sharp tension between the five band members, this is simply one of the greatest albums ever recorded.
The War Of The World (Remixed & Remastered Double Album)The War Of The World (Remixed & Remastered Double Album) by Jeff Wayne
Buy new: £7.98 / Used from: £7.63
How does a record scare the wits out of you while blowing your mind with fantastic music performed by some of the greatest stars of the day? Listen and be amazed. A bit dated, but wears its years well
You Are The Quarry [Deluxe Edition]You Are The Quarry [Deluxe Edition] by Morrissey
Buy new: £4.98 / Used from: £2.48
Mozza's best work for years. Be sure to get the deluxe version which has a bonus disc featuring live performances and video.
New World Record [Us Import]New World Record [Us Import] by Electric Light Orchestra
Buy used from: £6.99
Second only to "Out of the Blue" as an album. "Livin' Thing" is the song which made me fall in love with music.
Water SignWater Sign by Chris Rea
Buy new: £5.97 / Used from: £3.45
He's gone off a bit in recent years and his tendency to regurgitate old hits with new versions is disappointing. This is one of the reasons why Rea is so great. Original and best.
The Very Best of the SmithsThe Very Best of the Smiths by Smiths
Buy new: £8.57 / Used from: £3.81
Rather than list all the Smiths albums on here, this is as good a way as any to enjoy the genius of Stephen Patrick.
The Ultimate CollectionThe Ultimate Collection by Electric Light Orchestra
Buy used from: £7.90
If it's hits you want rather than the complete album, then pick this one. It's got just about everything. Still, you'd do yourself a favour if you heard all the albums too.