I would have to agree that early Elton albums are fantastic. I would pick Tumbleweed Connection as my favorite even over Goodbye Yellow Brick Road. It is clearly a cohesive album in the sense you say is dead today.
I know you guys aren't into the alterna-rock much but on the idea of an album or concept, Our Lady Peace's Spiritual Machines qualifies I think. I enjoyed it very much. I liked all their albums though I haven't listened to the first one too much. The last one I thought was good but a little tainted by its pop reception and new guitarist who wasn't as talented as the previous guy.
PJ's Yield was my favorite and probably most like an album. Neil Young's Harvest maybe or After the Goldrush or maybe the electric one, Rust? I think. I like those, they definitely have an album feel. Stanya might be right. The Album might be dead. I am having a hard time coming up with anything outside of Elton and Dark Side of the Moon.
As for new stuff, I've never been the guy with the tunes. I had been enjoying the White Stripes but their new album sucks as far as I can tell. I've only heard some of it.
I restrain myself from commenting on Jay-Z and any other rap nonsense. I'll admit I used to like the Beastie Boys, but I've grown out of it I think.
Lately, I feel like I'm leaving a lot of music behind that I liked in the past. The Beatles just don't do it for me anymore. And, (hold the comments) while I've always been a huge Pearl Jam fan, I don't feel so devoted anymore. It was always a contentious relationship anyway.
I think I'm gonna pick up some David Bowie. I don't know any of his non-radio stuff. I watched Life Aquatic and there is a lot of Bowie in it. Funny movie for anyone interested, if you like Bill Murray (who doesn't?). Or if you liked Rushmore or The Royal Tenenbaums, Life Aquatic is even better.
