More audiophile reviews by Ted King

The Captain & The Kid
—Elton John

It's been 32 years since Elton John and Bernie Taupin co-wrote the classic album Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy ... now, there's a sequel! This album is a sober documentary of the writing partners' rock 'n' roll survival, from the peaks of megastardom to the valleys of drug addiction. The words and music are straightforward, unapologetic and brutally honest.

Although not as seamless as the original, it is easily Mr. John's most rewarding album in over 20 years.

The Information
—Beck

Looking for a little company during the sensory assault of the computer age? Well, here it is. Beck's eighth album is an amalgamation of everything that has gone before it and feels and sounds like a walk down a busy New York City street on a hot, sticky day. Sounds come from everywhere, ideas take shape and drift away, and hip-hop reaches your ears with each step taken. This is not an album for those looking for a relaxing soundtrack; it is a confirmation that you and I are not the only ones feeling overwhelmed by the stresses of modern life. Beck possesses great musical talent and a knack for expressing what we are afraid of. Beautifully produced and recorded, this is not a record for the ages, but certainly one for this age.

Classic Corner
Catch A Fire — Bob Marley and The Wailers

If your knowledge of Bob Marley is a greatest hits collection you've owned since high school, then you need to own Catch A Fire. This album is arguably the greatest reggae recording of all time. Great because it perfectly balances the gentle, hip-moving sway of reggae with politically charged lyrics that demand rights for the poor and love for the soul. The music is thought-provoking and sexy the way great records by Marvin Gaye or Stevie Wonder can be. The influence of this album on popular music is monumental.

This article originally appearred in the November 28, 2006 issue of Soap Opera Digest.