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One of the greatest Jan 25, 2010
"Essential Recording," one of the greatest, legendary - call "The Stranger" whatever you want, but listen to it and you'll become hooked just the same.
Thirty-three years on and it still sounds great. Although this album sounds dated in some places, I really don't care because the strength of the songs carry that dated sound through.
I've always had great respect for Billy Joel as a singer, songwriter, and pop musician. He was able to write an entire album of hits that are just a pleasure to listen to all these years later. You can listen to this while you're doing whatever it is you're doing and you'll be disappointed by the time it's over, as if to say, "That's it?"
Joel hasn't stopped since the 1970s and I hope he keeps it up for as long as he can write music and play that piano.
I know a good album when I hear it and "The Stranger" is one of the greatest pieces of pop music. I don't have a favorite because every single song here is worthy of repeat listening.
Be warned, though: You really should listen to this straight through - preferably everytime. - Donna Di Giacomo
The Stranger Dec 08, 2009
This has been my favorite album for years. My cassette tape broke and I have been without it for several years and am so happy to have in again in cd form. Thank you.
1 of 1 found the following review helpful:
Billy Joel's Finest Oct 25, 2009
Though, "Piano Man", may be Joel's signature song, "The Stranger" is his signature album. After all, though it may not contain, "Piano Man", it contains a wealth of other classics that are just as strong and that is why this album pushed the already famous Billy Joel even further into the spotlight. The material here is uniformly strong with extremely little filler or wasted moments. Most notable are the character sketches such as, "Moving Out (Anthony's Song)", and, "Scenes From An Italian Restaurant". The latter being an extended suite of sorts that Joel actually preferred over, "Piano Man". The big hit here, however, is the romantic ballad, "Just The way You Are", which has become a staple of soft-rock radio. Equally emotional, and perhaps better written, is the love song, "She Always A Woman To Me". But these soft moments are balanced out by the stinging title track and the pro-lust anthem, "Only The Good Die Young" which stirred up quite a bit of controversy when it was initially released. Also, be on the look out for the reflective and gentle, "Vienna" which is an often forgotten masterpiece. Indeed, Joel is a very versatile songwriter and though he went on to make many other classic songs an albums, this one remains his masterpiece. Though many of these songs are found on his greatest hits package, they're best heard here in their original context.
1 of 1 found the following review helpful:
The Stranger spoke to me Oct 06, 2009
Intelligent lyrics that helped me through my teenage years. There is no comparison to his Billy Joel's musicianship. Magical! It's great to revisit this album time and time again.
BLAST FROM THE PAST!!! Oct 04, 2009
I love everything Billy Joel sings but the songs on this CD have always been my all-time favorites. Mr. Joel never ceases to amaze us with all his talent. I have the LP but wore it out over the years and was crushed when I bought a record player only to find the sound wasn't what I remembered it to be when I bought records brand new. Now that this album is new to CD, I was so excited that I couldn't wait to get it! This is one of those CD's that you never tire of listening to. I'm glad Billy Joel is still writing songs to bring us even more wonderful music today! I love he spans generations. That's a rarity in itself. And, Billy Joel is a rarity! Love him!
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