BARENAKED LADIES

Gordon (SIRE/REPRISE, 1992) When major labels were seeking gloomy rock bands,

Gordon arrived at the other end of the spectrum. The album perfectly demonstrates the band’s ability to juxtapose off-the-wall lovable comedy with a welcome side of gravitas. Somehow the ska-lite hijinks of “Grade 9” don’t upset the heavy sentiment behind tracks like “Brian Wilson” and “What a Good Boy.” A stone-cold CanRock classic.

Rock Spectacle (SIRE/REPRISE, 1996) Officially in a rut, this live album saved their career and a rousing version of “Brian Wilson” became their first radio hit in the U.S. Most surprising is that the band opted for a more mature set list, instead of the improv raps and goofy sing-alongs they built their name on.

Snacktime! (DESPERATION, 2008) That it took Barenaked Ladies 20 years to record songs for children is the only surprise behind Snacktime! Never has an act been more suited to sing about the wonders of dried-up grapes or make one of their heaviest rock songs about being allergic to everything. Snacktime! features fascinating and diverse arrangements, from folk and synth-pop to bluegrass.