I think the problem with this discussion is that it's hard to frame it.  
Putting aside concept albums, which ostensibly should play as a whole work, 
I think the question is when is an album an album, instead of "Hey!  We 
finally wrote 12 songs and recorded them and put them on one disc!"  In the 
original USA Today article that spurred this thread, I was struck by Rob 
Thomas of Matchbox 20 decrying the possible demise of the album, and 
thinking, "As if Matchbox 20 had some great aesthetic statement to make over 
the course of 45 minutes, as opposed to keeping the A & R guy happy."

I think what makes an album truly an album is a mixture of intent and 
serendipity.  The Clash are a good example.  Starting with GIVE 'EM ENOUGH 
ROPE through COMBAT ROCK, each album had a specific feel.  Beyond the 
distinct feel of each album, there is also, on the last three albums of this 
sequence (LONDON CALLING, SANDINISTA! and CR), not just a diversity in 
styles (and how!), but the albums have a flow that adds to the enjoyment of 
playing them.

This isn't to say the best cuts on those records can't be separated -- I 
don't think that the enjoyment of individual tracks separate from their 
album context is indicative of how effective the album is as a whole.  With 
a great album, it's a case of the sum being greater than the individual 
parts, even if some of the individual parts of the album are pretty great 
alone.

In some cases, the greatness of an album is defined by a unity of purpose.  
One of the best recent examples of this is Sparks' LIL' BEETHOVEN, which 
takes a very specific approach and applies it in some different musical 
contexts.  I think I'd place The Cars debut record in that category too.  In 
other cases, it's the diversity of the material, weaved together with 
thoughtful sequencing, that makes for a great full length listening 
experience.

There are albums that have a lot of great songs that, IMO, don't make for a 
rewarding full listen.  One album that comes to mind immediately is Cyndi 
Lauper's SHE'S SO UNUSUAL.  I could certainly say that about a lot of power 
pop albums that have come out in the last few years.  Whereas REPEATER by 
Splitsville is, to me, an album that has an ebb-and-flow and moves you 
places, Lolas' SILVER DOLLAR SUNDAY, for example, is just a bunch of fine 
songs put in one place.  I love both these albums, but I think REPEATER more 
fulfills the album experience.

As I finish writing that, I realize how difficult it is to tackle this topic 
-- too much is dependent on how you personally respond to the disc.  An 
album is self-defining, and we have so many selves on this list.

Babbling, copping out and splitting --

Mike Bennett

NP:  The Go -- THE GO

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