The Monkees — Pisces, Aquarius, Capricorn & Jones

For me, this has always been my second-favorite Monkees record (“Head” being the top, by far). Less cutie-pie pop (with the odd and possibly ironic exception of “Cuddly Toy,” written by Harry Nilsson of all people). This was released in November 1967, It was their fourth album, released just under 13 months after their debut, for an idea of how insane their pace was. A more diverse set of songwriters, the super strong “Salesman,” “The Door Into Summer,” “Pleasant Valley Sunday,” and “What Am I Doing Hanging ‘Round,” among others. Good beginning to end, with more Nesmith lead vocals than anyone else. If I go to put on the Monkees, it’s this or Head or both. I’ve had this, and all my Monkees records, since 1979 or 1980, but it’s been nearly that long since they were in anything like regular rotation.

I have two copies of this – I’m sure I hardly paid anything for either, but it seems like they’re of equal quality and both just fine. Can’t go wrong with a little PACJ. I’ve almost certainly had this since 1979 or 1980 – my big ’60s period.