The Trib Summer 2013 | Page 8

MP3s or vinyl? Both really. It’s a bit like asking if you prefer jet planes or hot air balloons. If I’m flying to Europe, I want to go by jet but if I just want fly around, just for the experience, I’ll take the balloon. MP3’s are great for certain applications. They are great in the car, you just can’t beat them for portability. Digital is also handy for finding new artists on the web. But when I want to listen to music, just listen to music, vinyl is where it’s at. I’m really excited to see more and more new stuff being released on vinyl. They usually come with a free download card, too, so you get the best of both worlds. Your top 5 albums of all time? 1. Van Morrison: Astral Weeks 2. Greg Brown: Further In I think this is Greg’s best writing. Bo Ramsey is my very favorite producer and Kelly Joe Phelps plays some of the best lab slide I’ve ever heard on this. 3. Bob Dylan: Bob Dylan Most of the tunes on this album are traditional so it’s not even about Bob’s writing. It’s just a wonderful demonstration of how one kid with a guitar can make great sound recorded live with no overdubs and no other musicians. 4. David Mallett: David Mallett Besides containing “The Garden Song” this album also features “Fire,” which might just be my very favorite song ever written. 5. The Beach Boys: Pet Sounds “Wouldn’t it be Nice” is probably the closest thing to a perfect pop song. Two minutes and 21 seconds of the most densely layered song ever recorded that always leaves me wanting to hear it again. This Summer, Bring Maine Home • Handmade jewelry • Photography • Quality woodworking items • Books, music, and art work • All items made by Maine artists and artisans www.BonniesPlaceMe.com Summer 2013 | www.erinsolomon.com 6