1. Electric Warrior - T. Rex
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X-2eHfmBZ5E T. Rex began as a psychedelic folk-rock group (called Tyrannosaurus Rex), but really took off when they switched to grungy, electric rock (which would soon be termed glam rock) in the early 1970s. Electric Warrior was their second album under the name T. Rex, and arguably the best they ever put out. It includes hits like Get it on and Jeepster, and brought the group significant commercial success. Like Rundgrens Something/Anything?, even simple, unadorned albums were grandiose in the 1970s. Electric Warrior doesnt deal with complex themesit really deals with one theme, which isnt appropriate for a mixed audienceor include long, cosmic jams. But its relatively short glam rock songs deal with their theme as seriously as did Yes musings on spirituality. You come away from a listen feeling like youve done something productive, that youve improved your life. And in a way you have. I guess thats what I miss (miss) about the 1970s. Things mattered. Well, rock mattered. And it didnt have to involve heavy themes or complex arrangements. Even a song comparing a woman to a car could feel portentous. So there it is. What do you think? Have I left off any crucial entries (I know I have)? Am I too nostalgic for an era in which I wasnt even born?