Album of the Day

After nearly a decade under his belt as a singer-songwriter, Al Stewart hit paydirt with “Year of the Cat” and his follow-up album, TIME PASSAGES, is equally strong. Alan Parsons returns as producer one last time and the 1978 collection features many of the same musicians as its predecessor (a couple of whom would soon turn up in Pink Floyd's orbit; the Hipgnosis cover art here furthers that connection). Stewart's knack for historical texture and telling detail elevates these nine originals, which include “Valentina Way,” epic single “Song on the Radio” and the Top 10 title track. Certified Platinum, TIME PASSAGES was another triumph for Al Stewart, and we'll play it again now to wish him a happy birthday.