Readers have an ‘Appetite’ for rock

REM, “Automatic for the People”
Brilliant songs, well written and awesome musical arrangements — meant that we all felt the pain, joy and the experience we were meant to feel listening to the album — Rajat Mehta, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

The Neville Brothers, “Yellow Moon”
It’s one of the few albums that, even though I haven’t listened to it in years, haunts me still. Aaron Neville’s tenor, the saxophone stylings, the uncompromising lyrics, made for a raw, soulful, but somehow still polished sound. In fact, I’m inspired to go out and buy another copy. I’ve missed this album! — Shea Grimm, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

Prince, “Sign of the Times”
Prince is the most prolific musician of our lifetime and this album has been recognized by many as a top 10 of all time. It is very diverse and inventive for its time and its live musicians — mostly Prince. What were you smokin when you picked these albums? — C. DeAngelo, Trenton, NJ

Nirvana, “Nevermind”
Hands down, this was the sound that changed everything. This album knocked the King of Pop off the planet and obliterated the hair bands. — Valerie, Calif.

Green Day, “American Idiot”
Yeah, this one’s just been released, but I think it’s an unobvious choice that people 20 years from now will still be talking about. A record does not have to be No. 1 on the charts for months to be considered the “best album.” Green Day’s “American Idiot” may forever be remembered by a few hit singles from the majority, but it is the album as a whole that is truly amazing. This album tells a story — a story that almost every kid in America can identify with. This is the story of post-9/11 life in America, where the majority of kids come from broken homes, everyone knows the name of their local drug pusher, and there is confusion about their hypocritical government. The album also deals with sensitive subjects such as the death of a father, a love that’s been lost and an unstable home environment. The way the songs mesh together is remarkable. It feels as if you are listening to one long song and a compelling story. Green Day may forever be remembered for helping to bring punk to the mainstream with 1994’s “Dookie,” but their best work is undoubtedly found on “American Idiot.” This album is one of the best of the last 20 years, because it appeals to the masses. People I know that do not like Green Day or punk have actually gone out and bought this record after one listening. Please give respect to this record — strike that — piece of art. — Billy, Phoenix

N.W.A., “Straight Outta Compton”
A pivotal album that defined early 90s inner city life experiences of African-American youth with police, gangs and drugs. This album reached people of all races and genders. This album was one of the first rap albums to include songs about police brutality. Aside from Public Enemy and KRS1, NWA was the voice of inner city youth and that voice was finally brought to the mainstream with this album. — Billy Galbreath, Fort Collins, Colo.

Dire Straits, “Brothers in Arms”
One of my favorite albums, top to bottom, would be “Brothers in Arms.” It’s a great collection that works as a complete set, as opposed to simply being a group of singles to roll out to the radio masses (although that happened to several songs from this album). I never tire of listening to this CD in its entirety. — E. Schmidt, Warrenville, Ill.

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