'1,001 Movies You Must See Before You Die' Challenge

As perfect of a psychedelic pop album as one could ask for.  It's essentially Sgt. Peppers Part II.  Even though it's technically more of a compilation album, it still flows as a strong album.  One of my personal favorite Beatles records.  So many of their greatest songs to be found here. 1. Magical Mystery Tour- ****1/2 A groovy way to start the album.  Just love getting lost into this little jam.  Think I love this one even more than the opener for Sgt. Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band.  I especially love the piano outro. 2. The Fool On The Hill- ****1/2 An amazing McCartney song.  Love its whimsical vibe.  Especially that flute solo. 3. Flying- **** Even though it doesn't really stand out much, it's such a soothing little piece.  This one has really grown on me lately. 4. Blue Jay Way- **** Probably my least favorite on the album but I still love it.  Even though it isn't one of my favorite George Harrison songs...

Magical Mystery Tour (1967)

A great progressive rock album.  One of the most upbeat and fun ones I've heard.  Although it isn't without corny and plain odd moments, it's consistently awesome from start to finish.  Such lively instrumentation.  A go to summer record for me. 1. Roundabout- ***** Who doesn't love this one?? Just a perfect progressive rock song in every way.  So fun and over the top in the best way possible.  Insanely good instrumentation. 2. Cans And Brahms- **** Sounds like a progressive rock take on classical.  Yeah it's pretty corny but I really enjoy it for some reason. 3. We Have Heaven- **** This one is completely ridiculous but I enjoy it greatly. 4. South Side Of The Sky- ***** I'vc come to realize this is my personal favorite on the album.  Such a massive soundscape this creates.  Sports one of my favorite Yes guitar riffs. 5. Five Percent For Nothing- *** Eh don't really care for this one.  Just aimless noodling. 6....

Fragile (1971)

Let It Bleed (1969)

An excellent rock record.  While the first and last tracks are by far the best moments on the album and it isn't without minor flaws, it's such a blast to listen to.  It features the Stones at full on transitional mode.  Gone with the psychedelia and in with the gritty country/R&B influenced rock and roll.  1. Gimme Shelter- ***** A flawless song.  Everybody knows this one.  It's an apocalyptic masterwork.  There's a good reason why Martin Scorsese has used it an absurd amount of times in his films.  2. Love In Vain- **** The Stones show their country roots.  Sounds very Robert Johnson-esque.  While it seems a bit underwhelming after Gimme Shelter, it's a nice heartbreaking blues song.  Nice guitar work. 3. Country Honk- ***1/2 The country version of Honky Tonk Women.  Decent but nowhere as good as the single version.  4. Live With Me- **** Fun dirty rocker with an awesome bass line.  5. Le...

Running Time: 125 minutes Directed By: Billy Wilder Written By: Billy Wilder, I.A.L. Diamond Primary Cast: Jack Lemmon, Shirley MacLaine, Fred MacMurcurry Summary: A man tries to rise in his company by letting its executives use his apartment for trysts, but complications and a romance of his own ensue. My Thoughts: This is one of the most perfect films I've ever seen.  I absolutely adore it.  Just one of the most heartfelt and genuine films out there.  I'd always loved it but this viewing particularly struck a chord.  It hits in emotions that remind me of how I feel while listening to The Beach Boy's Pet Sounds (1966).  Being a pretty turbulent and naive personality, CC Baxter is a character I find easy to identify with.  Jack Lemmon is just the best.  It's impossible to not completely feel for him here.  Shirley MacLaine is absolutely adorable as well. The overall pacing is what really makes this special.  For the fir...