347 of 1001 Albums: Boston's Self Titled

This is a very strong debut from any band, but this strong debut happens to be from the band, Boston. This album is quite huge, it's currently the 2nd best selling debut album of all time in the U.S. With this being one of the fastest hits for any band, and producing singles that still rotate on stations today it's quite staple to the music industry in America, and showcases an innovative band that had a lot of talent.

There is something about Boston that just sounds like very classic, and staple rock n' roll. The guitars are unlike what you might have heard by this time in 1976, and the singer, Brian Delp, has a great voice that really matches the tempo of the music. "More Than a Feeling" is a good way to kick off the album, because for most listeners by now it is very recognizable, and it is one of the strongest off the album.


This won't be the only song that you hear on the album and enjoy, and even recognize though. The guys almost seem to build off some of the sounds that Queen had earlier in their years before the Bohemian Rhapsody sound. "Foreplay/Long Time" is a long song, but there is something memorable about that will have you listening again. There is also "Peace of Mind" that mixes up the sound, but still keeps in line with the staple rock sound that the guys have on the album.

"Smokin'" is the next song that really picks back up the album again though. They almost seem to throw in a little Creedance Clearwater Revival sound to mix this one up. What remains strong as always is Delp's vocals. Tom Scholz's guitar playing also adds to the album tremendously. You have a lot of talent fused into the album that makes it memorable, and with the occasional acoustic sound it never makes it too over the top heavy.

"Something About You" and "Let Me Take You Home Tonight" wind down the album, and they were the perfect choice to let the listener to go. They seem like softer ballads, but they still have a lot of rock in them. On "Let Me Take You Home Tonight" the guys seem to have a lot of fun near the end of it as they add a lot of backing vocals, and let their voices soar. These albums still have that fun feel, but also seem to have a tad more seriousness in them.

Boston is a band definitely worth looking into if you want to mix up your playlist. They are very classic and traditional rock, and that is what makes it so good. The guys sound like they are having fun on the album while still taking their talent serious by showcasing it well. You have a great selection of songs to listen to that provide consistency and variety.

Rating 8 of 10
Recommended Listen: More Than A Feeling