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The Best Albums of 1989.

Rock critic Ken Tucker gives his picks for the best albums of 1989.

06:56
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Other segments from the episode on December 28, 1989

Fresh Air with Terry Gross, December 28, 1989: Interview with Richard Price; Commentary on the best rock albums of 1989; Interview with Elvis Costello; Commentary on the best films of 1989.
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22:17

Novelist and Screenwriter Richard Price.

Novelist and screenwriter Richard Price. Price lists as influences Lenny Bruce, Dion, James Brown, and movies and TV. His first two novels, "The Wanderers," and "Bloodbrothers" were both made into films. Price was disappointed with the screen adaptations of those stories, and that experience led him to try his hand at screenwriting.

Interview
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11:24

Rock Musician Elvis Costello.

Rock musician Elvis Costello. Since he debuted with "My Aim is True" ten years ago (for which he won a Grammy nomination as Best New Artist), Costello has been one of rock's most influential acts. His music has been praised for the wit and intelligence of his lyrics, and the inventiveness of the music. He spoke with Terry Gross last February, just after he released his 13th album, "Spike." Fresh Air's rock critic Ken Tucker described the album as "a thrilling example of a rock musician grown to maturity." (Originally broadcast 2/28/89).

Interview

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"Like a Prayer" Is an Uneven Pop Phenomenon

Rock critic Ken Tucker appreciates Madonna's provocative public persona; she's used her irresistible music to create videos and commercials that make controversial use of religious iconography. But her new album can't fully match her image; Tucker says there are too many ballads and not enough pop hooks.

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Tom Petty Without the Heartbreakers

Ken Tucker says Petty's first album without his backing band, Full Moon Fever, makes him proud to be an American -- it's a fine, mainstream rock album.

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