Desert island discs

by Marion Silver


Considering how unbearably hectic my life is right now, the idea of being stranded on an island with five of my favorite discs to keep me company seems like an inviting prospect. Now this assignment is something I can get my teeth into. In no particular order:


1. Marvin Gaye: What's Going On. Gaye broke the Motown mold with this one. It's gritty, socially conscious, fluid and very sexy.


2. Mission of Burma: Signals, Calls and Marches. I'm getting kind of screwed with this one since it only contains eight songs but what great songs they are. "Academy Fight Song" and "That's When I Reach for My Revolver" are crystal-pure and perfect punk anthems.


3. The Stooges: Fun House. Noisy, raw and primal. Iggy sounds like a caged animal strung out on smack. "Loose" and "1970" are especially good, sleazy fun.


4. Sonic Youth: Daydream Nation. This is the highwater mark for the band as far as I'm concerned and its last indie release. A shimmering, sprawling concept album without any real concept.


5. Velvet Underground: White Light/White Heat. This album was recorded over 30 years ago and it's still way ahead of the curve. It's a thrilling ride into the black heart of moral decay.