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The Current's 893 Essential Albums

With your help, we've compiled a list of the 893 most essential albums of all time.
With your help, we've compiled a list of the 893 most essential albums of all time.MPR graphic/Luke Mills

May 13, 2016

The Current realized a dream this year, a dream to compile a definitive list of the 893 most essential albums of all time (according to nearly 8,000 listeners, readers and members of The Current). We couldn't have done this without you, seriously.

Because we're a radio station that likes to have fun with programming, we're broadcasting the full countdown of The Current's 893 Essential Albums during Minnesota Public Radio's spring member drive this May 5 to 12 from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. CT with each album's defining track, adding up to more than 82 hours of music.

There will be upsets and there will be surprises, so as you follow along on-air and online, be sure to share your thoughts with the hashtag #893albums and tag @TheCurrent so we can find you on social media. Reaction GIFs are encouraged.

The Current's 893 Essential Albums is made possible by members of MPR. Power great radio by making a donation today.

The Current's 893 Essential Albums: 1-100

The Current's 893 Essential Albums: 199-100

The Current's 893 Essential Albums: 299-200

The Current's 893 Essential Albums: 399-300

The Current's 893 Essential Albums: 499-400

The Current's 893 Essential Albums: 599-500

The Current's 893 Essential Albums: 699-600

The Current's 893 Essential Albums: 799-700

The Current's 893 Essential Albums: 893-800

Hosts' and Staffers' Essential Albums

Mary LuciaBill DeVilleMark WheatJill RileyBrian OakeMac WilsonJadeAndrea SwenssonSean McPhersonLindsay KimballJake RudhLeah GaraasMike DeMarkBrett Baldwin KelseyNate RyanAnna ReedJay GablerLuke TaylorJohn MoeDan NassCecilia Johnson