Playlist Central

Bob Dylan was bigger than ever. "Crazy," "Steady as She Goes" and "Put Your Records On" proved that great pop songs can still become hits. Meanwhile, Rhett Miller and Josh Rouse deserved to have crossover hits that never materialized. Collaborations ruled, with Elvis Costello working beautifully with Allen Toussaint, the semi-super group Golden Smog crafting superb power pop, Paul Weller had the best live album, and both Norah Jones and Bruce Springsteen got down and dirty with friends.