Yusuf (Cat Stevens)
An Other Cup
Label: Atlantic / Wea

We’re much too young to claim any attachment to Cat Stevens’ vintage catalog. In fact, aside from the occasional “Morning Has Broken” or “Moonshadow” track heard in the elevator at Macy’s, our most immediate thought is from his no-fly list denial of entry to the U.S. in 2004 that made headlines worldwide (in fact, he sued UK papers for libel based on their coverage).

So this album is super fresh for us, and after 28 years, probably is for you, too.

Widely noted for his conversion to Islam, there’s no question that multiple songs directly correlate to his religion - “The Beloved” and “Whispers from a Spiritual Garden.” Yet, as a Christian, we found lyrics translate to our personal belief system, and the outstanding pop songwriting on each track make this an album worth enjoying all 11 tracks at a time.

We especially enjoy the horn backing on “Midday (Avoid City After Dark)” and the strings on his cover of Nina Simone’s “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood.” This album sounds big and expensive without going over the top. And from our perspective, fans of Jethro Tull should love this.

Stream the video for “Heaven/Where True Love Goes” (win)