Little David Years 1971-1977
George Carlin may be known today for all sort of things aside from his comedy recordings--HBO specials, concert tours, books, and film roles. But his most beloved work, the mother lode of humor upon which his reputation is based, are the recordings in the seven-CD collectionGeorge Carlin: The Little David Years (1971-1977). On albums such asClass Clown,Occupation: Foole, and the Grammy-winningFM & AM, Carlin redefined what it meant to be stand-up comic: he was a hip, intelligent, social satirist who was also extremely funny and entertaining. And he still is. The issues he was making fun of in the '70s are still around, which is why routines such as "7 Dirty Words" have lost none of their punch or humor. It's all here in a wondrous box set, including the complete contents of six classic records and a CD of rarities from his early years. Recent Carlin converts (as well as those who remember laughing at this stuff when it came out on LPs and 8-tracks) should all consider this great career retrospective.--John Sulak