Todd Rundgren

Todd Rundgren may be best known for his eclectic work as a solo artist and as a member of Utopia, but he's also produced some of the most acclaimed, influential, and successful rock releases since the early '70s. As with his own music career, Rundgren has never been afraid to take on a wide variety of musical styles, and he applies the same rule to his role as producer, as evidenced by the 18-track compilation An Elpee's Worth of Productions. A selection from each album he's been involved in as a producer is included here, which makes it quite a varied sampler. Rundgren has been producing others since the early '70s, and has played a prominent role in such landmark releases as the New York Dolls' 1973 self-titled album (which almost single handedly launched punk rock), Meat Loaf's zillion-selling bombastic epic 1977 hit Bat Out of Hell, and the arena rock sounds of Grand Funk's We're an American Band, among others. Highlights include singer/songwriter Jules Shear's "Whispering Your Name," the mature power pop of XTC's "Dear God," punk poetess Patti Smith's "Dancing Barefoot," prog rocker Steve Hillage's "It's All Too Much," as well as tracks from the aforementioned bands -- New York Dolls ("Personality Crisis"), Meat Loaf ("All Revved Up With No Place to Go"), and Grand Funk ("We're an American Band"). An Elpee's Worth of Productions proves that Todd Rundgren is one of rock's most versatile producers. ~ Greg Prato, All Music Guide