Colin Hart’s choices for the Top 25 Albums of 1956.
Elvis Presley’s Debut: Over 60 Years Later
Artist: Elvis Presley Year: 1956 Genre: Rock and Roll Grade: A+ On the heels of his landmark debut and supporting singles, Elvis Presley shot to international superstardom the likes of which had never been seen before or since. And while some may dispute Presley’s innovation and originality, one only need listen to his 1956 debut album to […]
Pithecanthropus Erectus
One of the most important jazz releases of the decade.
Grade: A+
Jazz Advance
Cecil Taylor’s remarkable debut opened the floodgates of free jazz
Grade: A
Johnny Burnette and the Rock ‘n Roll Trio
This is rockabilly at its most raw.
Grade: A
Ellington at Newport
One of the most famous live albums in jazz history, featuring one of the greatest solos of all time.
Grade: A
Songs for Swingin’ Lovers!
Frank Sinatra’s most popular album is as timeless now as the day it was released.
Grade: A
The Wildest!
One of the most fun albums ever released.
Grade: A
Clifford Brown and Max Roach at Basin Street
The final LP released by the legendary hard bop leaders.
Grade: A
Coronation of the King
Elvis’ first two albums, both released in 1956, began a seismic shift in modern musical history. His second album remains a benchmark.
Lennie Tristano
Lennie Tristano’s music can be rather cold, but its importance can’t be ignored.
Grade: A-
Three Ragas
I don’t know much about Hindustani classical music, but this tape is pretty good.
Grade: A-
