Greatest Recordings - your opinions




I’m interested to know what recordings people here find to be the absolute pinnacle of sound reproduction.

The Classic 45 vinyl pressing of Louis Armstrong singing “St. James Infirmary” put me so deep into the studio I was afraid to clear my throat for fear I’d disturb the band. So far this is the most live-sounding recording I’ve heard. I have a decent system but when I spin this vinyl at home I don’t come anywhere close to the experience I had at the audiophile shop that first played it for me. Trying to get Louis in the house is what keeps me upgrading beyond my means…if he ever visits it’ll all be worth it.

For me tape hiss or other anomalies don't preclude a recording from my 'best of' list. I listen for that live, full, immediate, 'in the room' quality beyond all other considerations.

What recordings stand out for you and what are your criteria for them to do so? (I have a pen and paper handy)
kublakhan

Showing 1 response by buscis2

Thelma Houston & Pressure Cooker/ "I've Got The Music In Me"
Sheffield Lab# -2 (SL7-SL-8)

Dave Grusin/ "Discovered Again" (First pressing)
Sheffield Lab# -5 (SL-19-SL-20)

Both aforementioned recordings are on virgin vinyl.

Shirley Horn/ "You Won't Forget Me" (CD)
Polygram/Verve# 847 482-2

Bobby McFerrin/ "Medicine Music" (EMI CD Import)
EMI# CDP-7-92048-2