My 3rd nominee in the Beatles Solo Project is the John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band album from 1970. Part rock album and part therapy session, this is a Beatle solo album like no other. It was Lennon's first collection of songs as a solo artist, aside from a trio of experimental albums with wife Yoko Ono, and a live album (recorded in Toronto). Lennon was the first to leave The Beatles, yet his departure was fraught with tension and unresolved personal issues. This includes the psychological pain he suffered over the death of his mom years earlier ("Mother"). He also declared that the only people he believed in were himself and Yoko ("God"). Biting political commentary is included (e.g. "Working Class Hero"), demonstrating his growing interest in political activism. This album is not easy listening, but it is essential listening.
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