Living Colour - Vivid

Living Colour's exceptional debut is strong all the way through--there simply isn't any weak material on this album. Generally classified as hard rock, Vivid also contains touches of funk and jazz to keep things interesting. Living Colour were also one of the few bands of their time to write politically conscious songs that never sound preachy. They take on politicians ("Cult of Personality"), slumlords ("Open Letter"), modern life ("Desperate People," "Glamour Boys"), and the gap between rich and poor in America ("Which Way to America?"). Outstanding music and lyrics, and Corey Glover's strong singing, make these songs simultaneously entertaining and thought provoking. The 2002 reissue is fleshed out with five bonus tracks, including a live version of "Cult of Personality" and a cover of the Clash's "Should I Stay or Should I Go." --Genevieve Williams