Tonefiend Forum

I think we all probably have 'good' reference albums that we use to audition systems, compare mixes, etc. But what about 'bad' reference albums?

I was just listening to Alvin Lee & Mylon Lefevre - On the Road to Freedom. My only thought was 'holy saturation!!'. The amps, pre's, and tape levels are all dimed. Every type of saturation is present there... which is a great resource to have so you know what to listen for and to avoid (unless you dig it).

Metallica's Death Magnetic is another reference for over-compression/loudness wars.

Are there any other albums that you guys can think of that could be considered 'reference albums' for somewhat undesirable reasons?

Or just list your favorite good reference albums. One of the most bizarre ones that I love is The Simpson's Sing the Blues. The definition and dynamics on that are incredible!