As far as critics go I’m not overly impressed. There were a lot of bad reviews for “STREET LEGAL” as I recall. Griel Marcus Of “What is this shit” fame said he couldn’t listen to it for more than a few minutes at a time or some such, even Christgau was hard on it- though I think he later changed his mind. To my mind Street Legal is brilliant with its mystical imagery and Dylan’s passionate vocals. Of course Self Portrait was completely dismissed though even that has grown on some critics I think. Production wise it may have been lacking but conceptually it was a great idea. (I wrote about it but took it out as it really was off topic.)
Anyway…
For Me “Knocked Out Loaded” is a wonderful album. Precious Memories injects a moving Christian hymn into the mix and “They Killed Him” is a powerful track with Dylan expressing his ever present sense of injustice. The closing “Under Your Spell” is so simple, sweet and sincere. (sorry for the alliteration- it just happened)

“Born in Time” is one of my favorite Dylan songs- though I admit being partial to a couple of the live bootlegs.

In any case I’m no expert in production- still, “I ain’t no monkey but I know what I like” and there isn’t a Dylan album I can dismiss- or even a song. I find songs I didn’t really like very much grow on me. Even “Wiggle Wiggle” became enjoyable when I realized that Bob is a grandpa and the song was probably written from that facet of his life. Or maybe its that as time goes on I find an ever deepening affection for him- like an old friend whose imperfections and idiosyncrasies become a shared humor, are endearing and only increase the tenderness you feel for them.

anyway- thanks for the insight and opportunity to think about and express.