Caught in the Carousel

Matt Bodreau

Matt Boudreau

Although he got his start playing drums with his fellow New Mexico-bred childhood pals in The Sextants and later rounded out his CV playing with Seven Day Diary, Matt Boudreau has become one of the most sought-after producer/engineers around.

In the past few years, Boudreau has been behind the board for everyone from The Samples to Austin Willacy to his most recent project, The Welcome Matt. Meanwhile, Boudreau has been dusting off some old masters of unreleased material by The Sextants-whose Lucky You is truly one of the most overlooked gems of the '90s-and is currently at work restoring and mixing the tapes he has unearthed for release later this year. Taking time off from his busy schedule, Boudreau shared with CITC his ten most essential albums:

1. Willie Nelson--Red Headed Stranger

This record tells a story so vividly and so musically right on. It's humble and timeless in its production. I never grow tired of listening to it. Willie's voice puts me at ease and takes me back to my childhood.

2. The Replacements--Pleased to Meet Me

While there are other great Replacements records, this one has stayed in my brain for years. It's aggressive, vulnerable, introspective, and yes, poppy. My favorite song on this is "Alex Chilton."

3. Rolling Stones--Hot Rocks 1964-1971

I had to really think what Stones record includes 90% of my favorites and this is it. Of course Exile on Main Street is everybody's favorite, but this has so many personal favorites of mine. The absolute best in my book is "Gimme Shelter."

4. Fugazi--13 Songs

This is truly one of my favorite bands of all time. This is the record that I was introduced to by my bandmates in The Sextants. Musically this does it for me. These guys talk the talk and walk the walk. The many times I've seen them I've never felt disappointed. Great from top to bottom.

5. Miles Davis--Kind of Blue

I have always loved this record. I would never claim to be a jazz aficionado, but this record is what all people who want to be introduced to jazz should check out. I have played this for my son since he was a newborn--he's now a year old. Every time "Freddie Freeloader" comes on he turns and looks at me with a smile.

6. Son Volt--Trace

This record from top to bottom is excellent. Great flow. The music really holds my attention. Reminds me of touring. While I was on the road with Seven Day Diary we burned a hole in the CD listening to it over and over again in the van.

7. Tom Waits--Rain Dogs

Just a classic Tom Waits record. "Walking Spanish" and "Clap Hands" are my favorites.

8. The Disposable Heroes of Hiphoprisy--Hypocrisy is the Greatest Luxury

I think this is one of the most underrated albums of all time. "Television, Drug of the Nation" is my favorite. A little rap and a little industrial due to the vocal phrasing of Michael Franti and the contributions of Jack Dangers of Meat Beat Manifesto and Producer Mark Pistel of Consolidated. Also shows off the guitar work of Charlie Hunter.

9. Rights of Spring--End on End

What I love about this record is the attitude, spirit and genuine emotion that it spews forth. The lack of fidelity only adds to its realness. This album was a sign of things to come from these future members of one of my absolute favorite bands, Fugazi.

10. Fleetwood Mac--Rumors

This is just a classic 70's record. It has such a vibe about it. The songs are well-crafted and performed. The production compliments the songs. Enough said.

For more information: www.mattboudreau.com