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3. Let It Be (1984): The Replacements final independent record, Let It Be, is thrilling from the opening shuffle of "I Will Dare" to the bracing closer "Answering Machine." This is the sound of a great band finally realizing that it's great. From the unforgettably infectious rocker "Favorite Thing" to the brilliant proto-LGBT rights "Androgynous" to the killer heart-on-sleeve anthem "Unsatisfied," nothing here doesn't work: Even the phenomenal KISS cover "Black Diamond" and the Ted Nugent tribute "Gary's Got A Boner" feel spot on. This iteration of the 'Mats could do no wrong, and lord knows they tried.