A message on another thread about the glorious DS holy trinity of Brilliant Trees, Gone To Earth and Secrets of the Beehive got me thinking... was that the best 1-2-3 album run anyone has ever managed?
I would guess that most of us in the forum would, at the very least, hold all three albums in something approaching high regard, although there is a chance you may prefer Blemish - Snow Bourne Sorrow - Manafon for instance. But there was definitely something earth shattering and unstoppable about Big Dave's first three solo albums (*Alchemy doesn't count - indeed the lack of a UK LP release was precisely because DS didn't want it to count, and that's fair enough).
It was an amazing achievement, especially given the fact that there weren't any major gaps between albums - three albums in four years. (I wouldn't count something like Kate Bush's three album run from Sensual World - Red Shoes - Aerial given it took over 15 years).
If we're not handing him the title for best 1-2-3 whammy ever in 'popular' music, then what's his competition? Only been thinking about it for about two minutes, but I guess the following might take the battle into extra time.
Prince: any three (in order) from the following run: 1999, Purple Rain, Around The World In A Day, Parade, Sign O' The Times, Lovesexy ('82 - '88). I'd go for the latter three myself.
The Beatles: any three (in order) from this run: Rubber Soul - Revolver - Sgt Pepper - Magical Mystery Tour (EP) - The White Album - Abbey Road. I'd go for Pepper, MMT (the EP and the contemporary singles that have now been added) and The White Album.
(Needless to say from my first two examples, a six album run would be fought between the best band ever - The Beatles - and the greatest artist ever - Prince, all in my opinion of course). Another couple of examples off the top of my head - the most critically lauded band since Lennon's lot, and another solo artist much loved by DS and who has, in the eyes of the fans, also produced a very distinct 'trilogy' that defines his career.
Radiohead: The Bends, OK Computer, Kid A. Impressive, but I'm definitely giving Big Dave the nod on this one - too many numbers I think weigh down the latter two albums.
Tom Waits: Swordfishtrombones - Rain Dogs - Frank's Wild Years. A great run, but I'm giving Big Dave victory in this one too.
Any others? Any thoughts?