Lou Reed’s live ‘Animal Serenade’ delivered the goods 15 years ago this week, but – gasp! – in an elegant, almost cerebral fashion.

John Frusciante released a solo album 15 years ago this week that wasn’t as hot as the Red Hot Chili Peppers, nor as funky – but more distinctive than you might expect.

By now, you’ve probably had just enough of the same old holly jolly stuff. Mark Saleski is here to help with some suggestions from off the beaten path.

The underrated ‘Flavors of Entanglement,’ issued 10 years ago today, found Alanis Morissette in a moment of fearless introspection. Critics be damned.

When Lindsey Buckingham’s terrific ‘Live at Bass Performance Hall’ arrived 10 years ago on March 25, 2008, I realized that I had forgotten some of the minor hits.

Prince always found a way to transcend his own legendary eccentricities. And this music, more than all of that, is what will remain.

Maurice White, who died today, was the mastermind behind Earth Wind and Fire’s focused, soul-lifting horns, sunburst harmonies and a thrilling propensity for shaken-up textures and rhythms.

Released in November 1995, Bruce Springsteen’s ‘The Ghost of Tom Joad’ traced the distance between the American Dream and the American Reality.

Queen once again showcased their ability to play tough hard rock as well as more anthemic material on ‘News of the World,’ released Oct. 28, 1977.

When Bruce Springsteen issued ‘The River’ in October of 1980, I didn’t like it very much. Time has changed that – and here’s why.