Ryan Reed

Frank Zappa is often regarded as one of the most brilliant, idiosyncratic musicians in rock music. But, looking back at his eclectic, monstrous body of work as a composer, guitarist, vocalist, and bandleader, Zappa really wasn't a "rock" musician. That fact is cemented on 'Lumpy Gravy,' Zappa's first official solo album, which was released 45 years ago today (May 13, 1968).

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How exactly did Genesis, progressive rock's defining band, manage to survive so much turmoil? The group weathered the loss of key members and a shifting musical landscape to produce '. . . And Then There Were Three . . .,' the 1978 album that introduced a leaner three-man lineup and helped them move from prog toward the poppier sound that would define their career in the '80s.

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There have been many Fleetwood Macs over the years: the late '60s blues-rock titans, the transitional folk-rock successors, and the unexpected crossover pop-rock mega-stars of the late '70s. But this complex game of musical chairs begins way back in February of 1968. That's when the band released their fascinating debut album, defining a new era of British blues.

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One of many things that makes Rush so consistently rewarding is that they stick with what they do well --  more than likely, Geddy Lee won't form an electronic side project any time soon, and it's a safe bet Alex Lifeson won't switch over to steel guitar. 'The Anarchist,' the anthemic third single from the excellent 'Clockwork Angels,' is a perfect example of Rush reveling in the many things Rush do well.

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Genesis fans: rejoice! Especially if you have a whole lot of extra cash. EMI is re-issuing five of this legendary prog-rock band's first six studio albums (leaving out their rightfully despised debut, 1969's 'From Genesis to Revelations'), all in fancy "180 Gram Audiophile Virgin Vinyl" format.

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Traffic are rightly remembered today as titans of jazz-rock and soul -- but on their 1967 debut album, 'Mr. Fantasy,' released 45 years ago this month, Steve Winwood and company were busy riding the psychedelic coattails of 'Sgt. Pepper.'

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On Nov. 4, 1963, the Beatles strode onstage to politely thunderous applause at London's Prince of Wales Theatre, as the Queen Mother and Princess Margaret gazed fondly amid the crowd. But these four charming Liverpool lads were clearly royalty themselves -- at least in pop music terms.

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