BJ Leiderman is an American composer and songwriter. His best-known works are his theme music compositions for public radio programs, including National Public Radio's Morning Edition, Weekend Edition, Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!, Car Talk, Science Friday, and American Public Media's Marketplace.
(Revolver and Rubber Soul): These albums were proof positive that the Beatles could change their entire direction and yet hold onto their audience. With Revolver you could begin to see their first steps in using the recording studio as an instrument.
2. “Rubber Soul" - The Beatles
(See above).
3. "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band” - The Beatles
I don't care if John didn't like the whole concept idea. It was, and still is a brilliant effort.
4. “The Beatles [White Album]” - The Beatles
For those who put forth the argument that it would have been a better one disc album, I say, go down the list and pick out 12 or so songs that you could now do without. I bet you can't do it. ... And to echo Paul, "We put it out, it sold… It's the bloody Beatles White album. Now shut up!"
5. "Abbey Road" - The Beatles
Most people mistakenly believe that Let It Be was the last album the Beatles recorded. It was not… Abbey Road was. To rise from the ashes of what was arguably the misstep of Let It Be, to produce what I believe history will show was their masterpiece, can only be described as Cosmic Magic. (A bit of trivia here: Abbey Road was originally titled Everest. They knew it was their last album, they knew they were going out on top, and they actually had plans to go to Mount Everest to shoot the cover.)
6. "Tommy" - The Who
(Tommy and Twelve Dreams of Dr. Sardonicus): Put on a good set of headphones and you'll see that these 2 Albums Were Way, Way ahead of their time.
7. "Twelve Dreams of Dr. Sardonicus" - Spirit
(See above).
8. "Woodface" - Crowded House
(Woodface, Oranges & Lemons, Wasp Star (Apple Venus, Pt. 2): With these albums, Crowded House and XTC give me a glimpse of what might have happened had the Beatles survived and continued to record. The writing (both music and lyrics) is rich, complex and smart, and both of these bands really knew how to use the recording studio to the utmost.