Introduction

If given another chance to write for the series, which albums would 33 1/3 authors focus on the second time around? This anthology features compact essays from past 33 1/3 authors on albums that consume them, but about which they did not write. It explores often overlooked and underrated albums that may not have inspired their 33 1/3 books, but have played a large part in their own musical cultivation.

Questions Central to the Essays

How has this album influenced your worldview?
How does this album intersect with your other creative and critical pursuits?
How does this album index a particular moment in cultural history? In your own personal history?
Why is the album perhaps under-the-radar, or a buried treasure?
Why can't you stop listening to it?

Collection Overview

Bringing together 33 1/3's rich array of writers, critics, and scholars, this collection probes our taste in albums, our longing for certain tunes, and our desire to hit repeat--all while creating an expansive "must-listen" list for readers in search of unexplored musical territories.