ROUND 1: Hotel California vs. Diesel and Dust
Eagles - Hotel California (1976) Genre: Rock Singles: New Kid in Town, Hotel California, Life in the Fast Lane Grammys: Four nominations (including AOTY), Best Arrangement For Voices, Record Of The Year RIAA Certification: 2x Diamond (26x Platinum) Rolling Stone Rank: 118
A concept album centered around a mythologized California as a microcosm for the entire country, legendary rock band the Eagles' fifth album would become one of the best-selling in history. Marking their transition away from country rock towards straight-forward rock and roll, Hotel California has been hailed as a masterpiece of rock for its stark yet cinematic observance of cultural excess and lush vocal harmonies.
Midnight Oil - Diesel and Dust (1987) Genre: Alternative rock Singles: The Dead Heart, Beds Are Burning, Put Down That Weapon, Dreamworld Grammys: One nomination RIAA Certification: Platinum Rolling Stone Rank: N/A
The sixth album from beloved Australian rock band Midnight Oil would be their first to break through to an international audience, particularly with the single "Beds are Burning." Informed by the band's experience performing for remote Australian Aboriginal communities on their previous tour, Diesel and Dust is a concept album focusing on the struggles of and injustices against the Aboriginal people as well as environmental justice, reflecting the future political priorities of lead singer Peter Garrett after he left the band in 2002 to pursue a successful career in the Australian government.
Which album is more iconic?
Hotel California
Diesel and Dust
