“Baby’s in Black” signaled the Beatles’ rapidly growing interest in musical experimentation, even as it showcased the Lennon-McCartney bond.

“Hell to Pay” doesn’t represent the rootsy Bonnie Raitt pushing Boz Scaggs into a new direction, so much as reminding him from whence he came.

The sweeping, deeply inspiring “Rise” keeps the synths, even as Todd Rundgren begins looking outward rather than inward.

William Shatner’s bold, brilliant ‘Has Been’ rocks with a wild abandon. Even the ballads are forceful enough to bring a Vulcan to tears.

“Might As Well Smile” explores a new kind of song for Beth Hart, part of a new kind of album – one framed by hope, rather than pain.

To be played at “annoy the neighbors until they call the cops” volume, ‘Here Are The Sonics!!!’ contains the work of accidental geniuses.

Joey Calderazzo’s “Mike’s Song” keeps his fallen leader Michael Brecker’s spirit alive and strong with nary a single note blown from a horn.

As sun-flecked as Ron Sexsmith’s melodies no doubt are, his lyrics often run the other way. “Can’t Get My Act Together,” however, feels brand new.

As the first Jon Anderson/Chris Squire composition to appear on a Yes album, “Looking Around” represents a landmark moment.

Boz Scaggs released his biggest-ever hit this month in 1976, providing the big-bang moment for an up-and-coming band named Toto along the way.