Part 2 of my "100 Favorite Albums of the 1990s" list covers a period of time when I was finishing up middle school and about to head into high school. Despite having very limited knowledge or context for anything at the time, I was internalizing all the corporate-curated alternative rock "authenticity" propaganda of the era and, without much sense of irony, had become somewhat of a purist. For the most part, only bands with at least one clearly defined guitarist, bassist, drummer, and vocalist would do. Extra points for lyrics conveying some sense of tortured realism. Nirvana and Red Hot Chili Peppers were my favorites. Doc Martens, Chuck Taylors, flannels, and band t-shirts from Sam Goody were my uniform. I'd also picked up my first Discman (a Sony D-111) for my birthday in '92, so now I was mobile. Music as identity - that is, "you are what you listen to" - now seemed like a very big deal. - Will G The Black Crowes: The Souther...
My life in music. . . .