TOP TEN PICKS FOR 1998 Here are our top ten picks (in alphabetical order) for 1998. Go to Top Ten Picks for 1999 Go to Top Ten Picks for 2000 Beach Boys, Pet Sounds Sessions 4-CD set captures the glory of this classic album, with instrumental and vocal outtakes. (Reviewed 3/20/98) Lisa Germano, Slide Germano dips into her slinky emotional well to deliver an ever-changing musical tapestry. (Reviewed 10/09/98) Kieran Kane, Six Months, No Sun Talented singer/songwriter mixes roots and Nashville on indie project. (Reviewed 6/05/98) Natalie Merchant, Ophelia Former 10,000 Maniac lead singer delivers tour de force (Reviewed 9/18/98) Joni Mitchell, Taming the Tiger Mitchell delivers a unique musical vision, almost experimental at times, highlighted by her spooky electric guitar and spare recording style (Reviewed 10/30/98) Robbie Robertson, Contact From the Underworld of Red Boy Leader of The Band returns with his strongest solo release in ten years (Reviewed 6/26/98) Sesame Street, Elmopalooza The cast from Sesame Street joins with musical heavyweights (including Celine Dion) on this happy album (Reviewed 8/21/98) Van Dyke Parks, Moonlighting First-ever live recording from renowned songwriter and musicologist. (Reviewed 4/03/98) Various Artists, Soundtrack to The Apostle Album provides a capsule history of gospel music in America, ranging from 19th century material to contemporary performers. (Reviewed 3/27/98) Scott Weiland, 12 Bar Blues With its layers of feedback and guitar rock, and production work by Daniel Lanois, the new disc is miles from Stone Temple Pilots. (Reviewed 6/12/98) - Randy Krbechek © 1998 Check CD Shakedown for Weekly Reviews of Music CDs and New Albums