Something/Anything?  by Todd Rundgren

The 1972 album Something/Anything? is the manifesto of a 23-year-old "wunderkind," Todd Rundgren, who decided to lock himself in the studio and prove that he could become an entire orchestra on his own. It is his third solo album and his first double, a lavish explosion of creativity that moves between flawless pop and experimentation. In the first three sides, Rundgren plays every instrument and performs every vocal, using the technique of multi-tracking with an obsession bordering on monomania.

Rundgren did not divide the album randomly. Each side has its own subtitle and character, functioning as a thematic unit that reflects different aspects of his musical personality. Thus, we have: Side A: "A Bouquet of Ear-catching Melodies" Here Todd delivers lessons in perfect pop. It includes the legendary I Saw The Light, which he wrote in just 20 minutes. The name indicates his intention to offer immediate, appealing songs reminiscent of Motown and Carole King. Side B: "The Cerebral Side". Here the structure loosens. It is a more introspective side, with experimental touches and less conventional forms. Side C: "The Kid Gets Heavy". This is the intense side, where Rundgren showcases his ability in rock 'n' roll and the electric guitar, as in "Black Maria". Side D: "Baby Needs a New Pair of Snakeskin Boots (A Pop Operetta)" The only side that was recorded live in the studio with other musicians (such as the Brecker Brothers). The name refers to a small "operetta" that unfolds through the songs, with narrative interludes. It is the most spontaneous and "noisy" side of the album.

Rundgren wanted to offer a holistic experience. As the album emerged from a whirlwind creative period (aided, as he admitted, by the use of Ritalin), dividing it into sides brought order to the chaos. The naming of the sides acts as a "navigation guide" for the listener through the vast amount of material (25 tracks).