Daydream Nation

I've been playing Sonic Youth on repeat for the past year, so I'm obviously going to give most of their albums 4 or 5 stars... Their name was always on my radar in the early 90s, but I was too into the grunge stuff to notice the real good alternative bands that emerged from the late 70s punk scene into the 80s collage rock scene, but I am sure glad to give them their due diligence now that I can still appreciate them.

Likely forgotten in the annals of time is just how much of a debt Sonic Youth owes to Husker Du for laying the Sonic (get it?) ground work for this record. Aside from that, Daydream Nation should be viewed as the culmination of SY’s shift from No Wave beginning with EVOL progressing to Sister and peaking at Daydream Nation. This is where the balance between Wire influenced no wave arrives at Husker Du influenced Alt rock with traditional song structures, melody and still gritty around the edges. Eric’s Trip and Total Trash are excellent examples of this balance with almost pop melodies in angular guitar with howling buzzsaw guitar lines. The inclusion of lengthier guitar workouts more reflective of their live show at that time is fascinating. This is a record that everyone should have in their collection. I have listened to this record hundreds of times over the years and each listen brings new insights. I will say that for me the second half of the record beginning with Eric’s Trip is more interesting to me although it’s not the hit portion. Candle is a classic and an amazing closer to this record. There is also no denying that Teenage Riot is an all time classic track but it is also a pretty conventional song for a band whose whole reputation is on experimentation and noise ala Glenn Branca. This record is really about balance and on Daydream Nation it is perfect. No skips on this record 5/5.

i think i’ve heard all of sonic youth now but this had to be their best album of them all

On Sonic Youths 5th release they made the conscious decision to let their songs ride out as long as they needed to and the result is a fantastic album. Yea, they’re still noisy but the songs have room for melody as well, listen closely, there’s some beauty in there too. What an awesome record this is. 5 stars

Full of raw energy and punch, The grounded production on the vocals and occasional talk-singing style makes me feel like I'm sat at a karaoke bar with a bunch of people I can click with. Instrumentation is fantastic, melodies are incredibly catchy, every vocalist brings their own style to their songs, noise breaks are of an acceptable level and fit with the tracks they're inserted into.

Highlights: - Teen Age Riot - Good vibes, cool guitar and I love Thurston's voice - Silver Rocket - What starts as rudimentary punk song quickly devolves into discordant noise. Given the time of release this is probably in reference to the Challenger disaster. - The Sprawl - The last 4 minutes of this song really do something to me. A fuzzy mess of guitar goodness. - Cross The Breeze - We're away from the feedback for now... but don't worry, it'll be back! i promise I'm not listing every song - Eric's Trip - I wasn't a huge fan of this song on my first listen but it has massively grown on me over the many listens. The whirring, discordant guitars and the infectious beat got to me... - Total Trash - We're back to feedback! 5 minutes of noisy goodness... - Hey Joni - Great track that makes me want to get up and dance! - Providence - Even though this is just an interlude it creates an incredible atmosphere - Candle - This song just sounds so magical and has such an amazing jam in the middle, you can imagine them playing the first few chords at a concert and the crowd absolutely losing it - Rain King - One of the less memorable songs on the album for sure with it's lackluster vocal delivery but it's still a masterpiece of guitar writing - Kissability - Maybe I am listing every song... the jam on this song is incredible. - A) The Wonder B) Hyper station C) Eliminator Jr - I've ran out of ways to give praise to the guitar writing on this album but rest assured this trilogy of songs live up to the rest of the album. (I ended up listing every song my bad I didn't realise how good this album was) I took this opportunity to finally listen to this on vinyl! What many consider to be their Magnum Opus and for good reason! High energy! punky! noisy! catchy! What's not to love?? This album is fantastic all the way through. The latter half is less memorable maybe I was just out of it by the time it got to that point because on this listening I found everything amazing. Actually it's probably because there's less noise on the 2nd half c: Thurston was a blessing on the guitar scene. Inspiring so many bands and writers alike, Kevin Shields of my bloody valentine credits him being a massive inspiration and they are best buds nowadays. Thurston gets a lot of his chaotic guitar writing from his extensive listening of free jazz. Taking that and applying it to guitar might be the only reason I still listen to music. Ridiculously High 5.

i love when loud apparently

Definitely a vibe

Gigantisk banger. Bedste vi endnu har haft med dem

1001 Albums Vol. 0022: Daydream Nation ============================================================ Introduction: Alright, we deviated away from the good stuff for a short time, now we can hopefully get back on track. This album, Daydream Nation by Sonic Youth, was released in the great year of 1988. What a time it would have been to be alive back then. Anyway, when regarding this album, I have heard literally nothing but praise for it. I've heard it hailed as one of the greatest works of all time, THE greatest work of all time, and just all around positivity. Positivity to its absolute max. Reasons for this seem to be fair too, it was apparently hugely influential on the yet-to-boom Alternative Rock scene. Again, I myself am a huge fan of Alternative Rock, so nothing but positivity in those regards. That being said, I have a little bit of a story here. I was really never all that into music until I hit my teenage years. My dad to this day has a car that contains a CD player. I think it's from 2012 or something close to that. For as long as I could remember, and as a lot of dads would, he would play music that he likes. It may have been to try and turn me onto what he likes or just for his own entertainment. I don't know. That being said, a lot of what he played was pretty damn average or pretty damn bad from what I can remember. He went through a phase where he really liked Bandstand by Family. I remember that much. That being said, every once in a while he would find a CD that was pure gold. I remember being first exposed to Funeral by Arcade Fire and Quadrophenia by The Who because of him. That being said, the CD that he put on that really got me into music was Starfish by The Church. I don't know why. It's undoubtedly not as good as the previous two I mentioned, but Under The Milky Way, Reptile, Destination, and just everything on that album really turned me onto music as a whole. That love has obviously never left since. Now, point of story? That album, Starfish, has kinda permanently "ruined" my interpretation of Alternative Rock in a way. That's not a dig on the album, I'm just saying. What do I mean? Well, I'm realizing more and more as I generate more albums on this site that I have no clue what the hell Alternative Rock really is. My brain instantly associates it with a mix between Neo-Psychedelic and Dream Pop...maybe a bit of Shoegaze too. That being said, after listening to albums such as Blood Sugar Sex Magik, I clearly have no idea what the hell Alternative Rock is. That album being considered Alternative Rock is proof of that. Hopefully, a few albums later, I'll start to actually get the gist of what this genre truly means, but until then I'm still just going to associate it with ethereal sounds and slow guitars....Anyway, back to the album. Sorry about that. Uh...yeah, even a government agency realizes how good this album is. Just like Remain In Light, this album was inducted into the National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress. That's cool. Good for this band. Anyway, with all of that said, let's get into this album. I've kept you here long enough. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Track 1: Teen Age Riot Score: 11/10 Track 2: Silver Rocket Score: 10/10 Track 3: The Sprawl Score: 11/10 Track 4: 'Cross the Breeze Score: 11/10 Track 5: Eric's Trip Score: 9/10 Track 6: Total Trash Score: 10/10 Track 7: Hey Joni Score: 10/10 Track 8: Providence Score: 8/10 Track 9: Candle Score: 10/10 Track 10: Rain King Score: 8/10 Track 11: Kissability Score: 9/10 Track 12: Trilogy Score: 10/10 A) The Wonder Score: 9/10 B) Hyperstation Score: 10/10 Z) Eliminator, Jr. Score: 9/10 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Conclusion: Well, I came out of this album more confused than ever about what the hell Alternative Rock means. I mean, this album bordered on Punk Rock on a lot of songs. That's not Alternative Rock. I don't think it is. I really don't know. I really couldn't tell you. As far as I'm concerned, Alternative Rock is just the name given to songs that are so unique that they won't get a lot of mainstream radio play....That previous sentence perfectly describes this album...and in a good way too. I really couldn't have expected anything less from this album, Could I? Literally everything that I've heard about this album is accurate. It's a masterpiece, it's influential, even today it's unique, it's emotional...just everything that propels music from "good" or "alright" to "masterpiece" is on here. What exactly makes the album so great? Wel...there's literally so many things that I couldn't quite get into it all. That being said, I'll start with the album's music. It's...admittedly not for everyone. Before I get down on my knees and bow down to the music that this album has to offer, I will point out that I can understand why someone may not necessarily like it. It's experimental. Heavily experimental. There are parts where instrumentation combines together to form something that doesn't even have a coherent melody. I don't mind these factors at all, but I can completely understand why someone would mind them. That being said, let me bow down to this album's music. It' so goddamn great. The instrumentation provides a very, very unique mix of Punk Rock, Alternative Rock, and Noise Rock. Noise Rock undoubtedly takes the main stage when compared to the other two genres, however. That being said, this is not a bad thing in the slightest. The album combines the typical type of instrumentation you would hear with Noise Rock and fuses it with enjoyable and recognizable melodies similar to that of Alternative Rock and Punk Rock. It's a great fusion which I can definitely see having a huge impact on Noise Rock as a whole. I would imagine that the more accessible and distinct melodies opened the genre up to many more listeners. No matter how you look at it, it's an undoubtedly great fusion between genres and helped push forward many genres of rock at the same time. It's great. No one will deny that. There are plenty of moments on the album that sound more akin to typical Noise Rock as well such as the bridge of Silver Rocket and the outro of The Sprawl. Now, I'm not the biggest fan of literally all things Noise. It's not a genre of music that I hate, but it's far from my favorite as well. That being said, these segments of pure Noise are so well produced and well written that I loved listening to them. These segments felt very atmospheric and psychedelic in all the right ways. There are entire songs more reminiscent to typical Noise Rock as well such as Eric's Trip and Rain King. Granted, those are two of my least favorite songs on the album, but they're still extremely well-written and unique. Now, this may just be me, but I genuinely got the vibe of...Arcade Fire while listening to this album as well. I mean this in nothing but a good way. Specific riffs on songs like The Sprawl, Teen Age Riot, Candle, and Hey Joni just gave off that somewhat magical vibe that Funeral-era Arcade Fire did. Weird comparison I know, just wanted to point it out. With all that said, I'll briefly move on to the vocals and lyrics. The vocals are...pretty damn great across the entire album. Many members of the band get a chance to shine as the main vocalist across each song which provides a lot of variety and personality to each song. That being said, I just have to briefly mention Kim Gordon's voice. I know some people may not like her voice, but I freaking love it for a multitude of reasons. It's cool, it feels raw, and it genuinely somewhat shocked me to learn that her voice...well...belongs to a female. I honestly just envisioned her voice belonging to a young guy in his 20's who maybe has curly hair and constantly shaves all of his facial hair off...basically a twink. I said it, kill me. Anyway, it shocked me that Gordon's borderline masculine voice belonged to a female and not a male. I've not seen anyone else online claim that they've been surprised by this. maybe I'm the first. I mean, just listen to The Sprawl and tell me you don't envision a twink. Tell me that....Anyway, the lyrics...they're pretty damn great as well. They, for the most part, have a very dark, magical, yet nostalgic tone to them all at the same time. They speak of themes such as the freedom of youth, the escape into thoughts, and occasionally speak of drug trips as well. Speaking of which, Eric's Trip is what I imagine to be one of the most realistic musical interpretations of a drug trip you can get while still having the music be enjoyable. I don't speak from experience. I've literally never done any type of non-prescription drug in my life, I'm just speaking based on my own interpretation. And no, I'm not just saying that so that the DEA won't come bust down my door. I'm serious. Anyway, with all that said, I overall find this album to genuinely be up there as one of the best I have heard to date. I imagine it probably won't even be in my top 50 by the time I'm done with this site, but who the hell knows? Albums like this are one of the main reasons I even decided to start my journey on this site in the first place. I wanted to discover new masterpieces all while discovering new disasterpieces at the same time. I of course enjoy discovering the former more, however. Anyway...uh...album's a masterpiece and honestly pretty damn close to getting an 11/10 out of me. It just...unfortunately isn't something that I would put on the same level as Kid A or Remain In Light. It's perfect no doubt, but it just barely doesn't reach the point where I would label it as beyond-perfect. I can't be too generous with 11's. If I were to give this album one, I would have to bump most of my other 10/10's at this point to 11's because this album does NOT beat Bob Dylan or Jimi Hendrix...or Lo Borges. That album's score on this site still devastates me. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Daydream Nation Score: 10/10 Song Average: (Trilogy + Three Sub-Tracks): 9.7/10 Song Average: (Just Trilogy): 9.8/10

Sonic Youth is een band die je in Nederland eigenlijk amper tegen komt in mijn ervaring. Dit was ook het eerste Sonic Youth album dat ik geluisterd heb. Heb erg genoten, het gitaarwerk is fantastisch, de nummers hebben atmosfeer en het album is lang, maar zo dynamisch dat de tijd voorbij vlieg. 9/10

This one's a banger. My 4th album from them and probably the one I've enjoyed the most. Surprisingly strong for a double lp and it went by quickly for 70+ minutes. Like the other albums Kim Gordon is standout for me.

SONIC YOUTH GUYS I LOVE SONIC YOUTHHHHHH Incredibly biased, because I know what they meant to the band pavement <3, so i learned to love them as well. The whole vibe of the album is lovely. To me, it feels very comforting. I love indie, indie rock or anything that feels slightly experimental AND THIS FEELS LIKE A SHIT SHOW. Highly recommend listening with headphones!! The guitars slay, but they always slay sooo anyway 5 stars no regrets

PEPINO MARINO GUARINO!

sonic youth!!!! "'cross the breeze" sonically describes how my brain feels all the time. love the strangeness of this all, especially the long guitar solos that are kinda off but in a perfect way, and how it gradually descends into more and more chaos

How can a record be both noisy and catchy? Pure raw energy.

I have listened multiple times, it’s a perfect album.

now this is influential music.

My personal introduction to Sonic Youth, this album holds a special place in my heart and really opened up a whole world of interesting music to me, hard to be objective so fuck it, go with your heart!

Another of my Desert Island Discs I think. I’m not sure why I find noise rock so comforting - my five year old claims that it isn’t music, it’s just people warming up before they play music. Almost every track on the first half of the album is a favourite, and I still enjoy the second half.

The best so dar

🩵

My only previous exposure to Sonic Youth was the album Goo, also from this list. I thought that album was ok. This one surpassed all of my expectations and I loved it. Such a mature and self-assured sound on this album. None of the songs stuck out as incredibly catchy, but every song was good. This was more of a continuous listen than a collection of singles. I hope I come back to this one at some point.

Already have this, fucks

Otro disco esencial, de un grupo imprescindible para entender la música desde finales de los 80´s. Minutemen como Hüsker Dü habían editado discos dobles, así que los Sonic Youth se lanzaron a por este formato, después de haber publicado esa gema que fue Sister (mi disco favorito de los SY). Portada memorable y apertura gloriosa con el clásico Teenage Riot con J Mascis de Presidente de los USA. Silver Rocket es un delirio punkorro (como ‘Cross The Breeze pero esta te lleva aún más lejos) mientras The Sprawl es una canción sobre drogas, camellos y fulanas, en la onda de la Velvet pero con la distorsión de los SY. Eric’s Trip y Hey Joni tienen como referentes a Andy warhol y Joni Mitchel respectivamente. Total Trash anticipa lo que serán sus pasos en Dirty. Mi favorita: Candle. El resto del disco sigue por los mismo deorroteros, un fascinante viaje de furia, ruido , melodía y distorsión. De Nueva York a la eternidad.

Kim Gordon = GOAT

𝘋𝘢𝘺𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘮 𝘕𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 is one of those albums I know so well that it almost feels like part of my internal wiring. I’m aware I have a positive bias toward Sonic Youth, but even with that in mind, this record stands out as something extraordinary — not just within their own catalogue, but within the entire landscape of 1980s indie music. It’s the rare double album where ambition and execution meet perfectly, and where experimentation doesn’t undermine accessibility but deepens it. From the opening seconds of 𝘛𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘈𝘨𝘦 𝘙𝘪𝘰𝘵, there’s a sense of momentum — a pull forward, like the band is opening a door into a world that runs parallel to everyday reality. A huge part of that energy comes from the interplay between Thurston Moore, Kim Gordon and Lee Ranaldo. Their guitars don’t simply serve roles like lead or rhythm; they weave in and out of each other, forming shifting planes of sound. Moore’s angular drive, Gordon’s grounding presence, and Ranaldo’s abstract flourishes create a three-way conversation that defines the album’s identity as much as any melody or lyric. The long-form songs are where the album’s character really unfolds. Tracks like 𝘚𝘪𝘭𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘙𝘰𝘤𝘬𝘦𝘵, 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘚𝘱𝘳𝘢𝘸𝘭, or 𝘌𝘳𝘪𝘤’𝘴 𝘛𝘳𝘪𝘱 drift between clarity and distortion, calm and escalation, with transitions that feel both unpredictable and inevitable. Steve Shelley’s drumming holds everything together — it doesn’t fight the guitars, but charts the path through them. There’s something exhilarating about how the band stretches time: letting riffs expand, letting feedback breathe, trusting repetition as a narrative tool. Instead of losing focus, these moments become hypnotic. Lyrically, the album works almost like a collage. The words aren’t meant to deliver a message; they create textures and impressions. Street fragments, surreal images, cultural references, half-formed emotions — Sonic Youth treat language the same way they treat guitars: cut it up, rearrange it, let it resonate. Even after dozens of listens, the album still reveals new angles, precisely because it doesn’t lock itself into a single interpretation. The production is another part of why this record stays so alive. It captures the rawness of the band without sacrificing clarity. You can hear the air in the room, the scrape of strings, the subtle shifts in tone as effects flicker in and out. For all its heaviness, 𝘋𝘢𝘺𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘮 𝘕𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 remains spacious, even airy. It never collapses under its own size; instead, it feels like a document of a band expanding beyond the limits of what indie rock had been. I also can’t ignore how historically rooted the record is. This wasn’t just a step in Sonic Youth’s evolution; it was a statement that reshaped what American underground music could sound like. Bands in the 90s and beyond drew from this album’s willingness to combine noise, melody, structure and abstraction into something coherent and compelling. Calling it 𝘵𝘩𝘦 indie album of the 80s doesn’t feel like hyperbole — it feels like simple accuracy. But beyond all that, there’s a personal element. I know I’m biased because this album has been with me for so long. It’s one of those records I can slip into effortlessly, where every transition feels familiar yet still electric. Even knowing every corner of it doesn’t dull its power; if anything, it strengthens it. 𝘋𝘢𝘺𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘮 𝘕𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 hasn’t just survived my repeated listens — it has deepened with them. For me, it remains a masterpiece: expansive, restless, visionary, and endlessly rewarding.

Loud, experimental, angular, beautiful

5/5. Great tracks, I really enjoyed this album. I was vaguely aware of Sonic Youth but now this album got me to really appreciate the contributions they made to music.

Already one of my top 10 ain't listened in a hot minute

It might just because I've been listening to such garbage on this list but this feels like a breath of fresh air. It almost feels like a response and condemnation of the post punk that existed before it. Everything feels calculated. Everything from the rhythm to the vocals are dense and layered with nuance that is completely at odds with the mind numbingly simplicity of the alternative that exists before it. I was never a fan of this band but I think I understand the context of what they came from, how they influenced some of my favorite bands and just the nuance of the music to create music with noise. I think I found my new favorite album.

Love it

It was pretty good. The vibe is both mellow yet aggressive. Will listen to more.

Noisy goodness! Took me so many years to got into this, no regrets. Easy 5 stars.

I have listened to this album only once before and I thought it was just ok. But listening to it this time round I’m in love with this album. What an intro Teen Age Riot has, just sets up the whole album nicely. Now this is a 5 star album and it couldn’t have come at a better time as I’ve had shit album after shit album I thought about quitting! Not now, thank you Sonic Youth

This is an album I’ve enjoyed for many years. I spent most of the time listening to it contemplating if it is a 5 or not, and which SY album is my favourite. I concluded that this is a 5. It’s consistent, it’s raucous, it’s enjoyable. There’s no real reason for me not to give this the full rating.

Indie rock noise masterpiece

One of the great guitar albums.

The part in Eric’s Trip that sounds like an elephant is really neat to me. The guitars throughout this entire thing just rip. The hooks are really catchy within the distortion. A double album that feels worthy of its length.

I love the way they go high energy punky thrash into discordant noise that resolves into these chiming songs. Hey Joni is epic and Teenage Riot is one of the best songs ever--that riff is apex predator epic.

I didn't listen to this yesterday, but then I didn't need to. This album was my first intro to SY, and I've listened to it maybe more than any other album ever - except possibly Reign in Blood by Slayer. (If I had to pick my number one favorite album of all time, it would probably be a tie between those two.) There's not a single track on here that I don't like. Hell, I remember driving across western Kansas in the middle of the night in 1993 or something listening to Providence and that, maybe the oddest track on the album, was perfect: the lone piano, the record scratches and pops, the spoken word, and the transition to the single guitar riff that opens Candle. Fuckin a, I love this album. I think, too, this album really marks SY's transition from no wave avant noise band to a fully formed guitar rock band. They remained loud, of course, and churned out plenty of long, flailing walls of noise, but albums became tighter and more attuned to pop culture (especially when Kim G was writing them). So, yeah, fuckin a, I love this album.

If most of pop and rock are portraits or still lives with clear subjects, Sonic Youth is doing William Turner landscapes - moody and indistinct. They don’t sound like much else before them, and definitely bridged the early indie bands of the 80s to the 90s indie scene. That’s probably a good thing given their incredibly pretentious name. This is one of my favorite records of theirs, including the Gerhardt Richter cover. Teen Age Riot, Total Trash and the Trilogy are great. I even like a throwaway like Providence which manages to be funny and sad at the same time.

5/5 - Noisy in all the right ways. One of the best leadoff tracks ever. I love Sprawl and Hey Joni. Wandering guitars, far off vocals, punk art. Just a great package that challenges and pleases my eardrums.

Really like it. Punky

One of the best indie rock albums ever recorded. Captures a moment in musical time, a perfectly paced album that hasn't grown stale in the years since release.

Dark psychedelia for the 80s, pushed through thrashy punk.

An all-time favourite for me. The album where Sonic Yoith managed to perfectly fuse noise and pop songwriting.

I think this was my introduction to Sonic Youth back when I was at university and it started an adoration for the band and its members that continues to this day. I know a lot of people write this off as just noise, but I genuinely think that Sonic Youth manage to draw such stunning melodiousness from that noise.

Daydream Nation is the embodiment of the sprawl. It's a long album that verges on improvisation, with unapologetic vocals and fast searing overdriven guitars and long winding instrumentals and repeated musical motifs sprinkled throughout. Its lyrics capture youthful 80s disillusionment with its mix of science fiction allusions and surrealist themes. In this way it feels almost apocalyptic, a death by a thousand cuts. So much has already been praised about this album it's hard to add much of anything unique to the discourse. I will say, Sonic Youth is a band I never got into very much when younger. I didn't see the appeal, didn't have the patience I guess for the longer songs. After listening closely due to this generator, I got it. I went back and listened again. Yeah, it's great.

black friday is just weeks away as i spend imaginary times in guitar center looking at that one instrument the perfect alternative instrument with the music blasting slowly creeping flooding out of the speaker and into the room, a thousand issues of madness floating together toward me, submerged emerged isn't that good? lifelike actual size pain continues until everybody's favourite 7/4 song sounds again from the far side of the moon, singing bout new guitars lasagnas five star daydream, think i'll buy season ticket for my supported football team, gooddamn crazy floating reverb drained feedback wails, hypeing me up like continuously drinking coffee but in the end sleeping in front of tv, dreaming of elevating myself up into outer space and you asked, can you stop writing such a personal "review" that is even not a review? i said no, and you asked again, do i wanna know what happened regarding your shame of not being a good enough guitarist? no, i said, but i am the one that build its life upon alternative rock and noise rock and shoegaze and couldn't even get hold of the holy sword of the genres... is this really happening, or is this not happening? i don't know what will happen when i look up to my shiny stars and thought that the instrument has become such a crucial part of them that i just don't fucking know what will i think when i finally get hold of it... will i think of them in tears? will they hate me? will they just say nothing? so load up on guns and kill all my dreams my hopes my imaginary friends, and watch every song becoming a weeping song and before the radio dropped dead, heaven knows if i'll still be weeping long. 5/5

BLACK MIDI OWE A GREAT DEAL TO SONIC YOUTH

I forgot how great this album is.

Absolutely phenomenal album. One of the best of its era. And I know everyone that loves it likes to call out Teen Age Riot for how great it is, and rightly so, but 'Cross the Breeze is the absolute knockout punch of this record. A true behemoth of a song if I've ever heard one.

I’m at a 5. I think this album is an acquired taste of sorts; for its time, it’s a slightly unnatural blend of the shoegaze that was, the heavy metal there is, and the grunge that soon would be. It leans into a lot of heavier guitar tones, focusing on the “sonic” side of Sonic Youth, much like “Goo” did, and while it’s not complimented as nicely by some more sophisticated buildups & chords, this album overwhelms that issue by just creating a more concrete atmosphere that carries over from track to track. It feels like a heavy album, even with a lot of these tracks just being generalized teenage-y first-world shit (frustration with politics, love life issues, lost marijuana, LSD trips, ego trips, etc), and I just think the soundscape itself is super cool to sit in. Much like “Goo”, you have to be a little more present in the moment with these tracks, since the instrumental shifts really sell the ebb & flow of the album – vocals & lyrics have a presence here, but half of the time, I found the lyrics nonsensical & the vocals (mostly from Thurston Moore as opposed to Kim Gordon, who honestly has some weaker stuff here) sound like Bob Dylan got kinda trapped in there with them & went along with it. “Rain King” in particular feels like a direct rip on his flowery, verbose lyrical style, and it has far more of a vocal twang that just screams parody to me. They don’t matter as much here, though they do occasionally have their moments. Unlike “Goo”, I can’t say there’s a dropoff here – a slight homogenization boils up by the second half, due to the first half having really long tracks & since this is a 70 minute album as opposed to a 49 minute one (though the pacing feels better, somehow). I only found one track to really hit a stale point by itself, and that was “Kissability”. Past that, I just found myself pretty damn satisfied for the whole thing, especially through the first 10 tracks. As I said though, it’s an acquired taste; if you’re not into the shoegaze of the era, or the heavy metal, or if the grunge aspects are underbaked here, combined with a long runtime that can occasionally feel like it’s going nowhere or getting too same-y, then the floor here is a very understandable 3, and I wouldn’t blame that. Hell, I could even forgive a 2 under the right explanations. For me, this just worked; I think the intensity & the energy for most of the album glides really nicely, and the vocals, for as Dylan-y and non-melodic as they occasionally feel, tend to work for the more frustrated & grumpy tone this album usually takes. I do think I would’ve given this a 3 or a 4 if it had popped up earlier in the list (or hell, if it had been our first Sonic Youth album), but hearing some of their other stuff, as well as a lot of surrounding albums within this space certainly helped a bit. I don’t think it meets the critical acclaim as a top 10 album of the 1980s like that (though it’s pretty damn good for a rock album), but I generally see where the critics are coming from. I enjoyed it, and while there are probably flaws I could’ve touched on (especially in shaving down the runtime here and there), I think those are for other people who disliked this more to amplify. I’m personally at a 5; I just liked it a lot. P.S.: I now do feel fatigued from hearing a shit ton of overdriven guitar at high tempos for the last few weeks. Enough with the damn “Atomizer”s & the “Double Nickels on the Dime”s & now this – I just want some nice, happy, fun pop music tomorrow, or anything chill.

I wish I was a teenager in early 1990 to discover this and realize that you don't need to be a stupid rockstar and live the indie dream. But I was a stupid toddler.

Kljub poslušanju ceuga fuka adjacent zadev v najstniških letih, iz nekega razloga nikol nism Sonic Youth raziskala. Dva dni nazaj je blo 37 let odkar je tale album izšel. Prv komad, "Teen Age Riot", mi je všeč. Naslednji, "Silver Rocket", se začne bolj punky, dokler na rata sam noise za neki cajta, po se pa počasi prelevi nazaj v prvotno obliko. Zanimiv je, k majo nek specifičn svoj zvok. "The Sprawl" mi je amazing. " Cross the Breeze" sam šopa, dokler še bl ne šopa, dokler se kr naenkrat ne umiri in počas zaključ v čist drugem vajbu. In mislim, da bi loh že par komadov nazaj rekla, da škoda, da nism v najstniških letih zatavala tud sm, cause I would love it. Oziroma, hm, I wasn't ready for this. Takrat sm mogla derivative preposlušat, da zj loh tole cenim. To bo en teh albumov, k bom še pršla nazaj. Hm, začetek "Total Trash" mi ringa a bell, pomoje ta komad poznam. Jap. "Providence" je k iz neke horror igre & telefonska tajnica? Edini ne-komad. In, sm že pri zadnjih treh komadih, k nj bi skupaj tvoril okol 14 minutno celoto. A fak, "Hyperstation" (srednji komad od "Trilogy") tud poznam od prej. Fin je. Je kr a trip cel album in ne nujno za vsacga. Noisy, eklektičen, komadi so dolgi po 7 minut. Ampak zraven pa mi ta noise popraska nek itch in melodije so mi všeč.

This one was so great to delve into but one day is definitely not enough with this album. It is just starting to reveal itself and the journey it took me on needs to be enjoyed again. It's awesome to hear when future artists and albums are shaped by the sound of another. That is definitely the case with this album and this band in general.

When I think of Sonic Youth, I often remember the scene in Juno where the main character angrily shouts something along the lines of "I listened to more Sonic Youth and it all sounds the same!" It's not an unfair criticism of the band who were so determined to try to stay underground that they rarely branched out from their characteristic sound (with occasional exceptions before running back to their comfort zone). I say all of this as a fan. I love Sonic Youth but I admit that you can't really sit and listen to more than two albums in a row without it sounding the same. So if you had absolutely had to pick only one of their albums that you could ever listen to again, it's a safe bet that the majority would pick "Daydream Nation", the band's magnum opus. It would absolutely be my choice. It's the point where their sound matured, where they learned to channel their live performances into recordings, where their indie label street cred reached its greatest peak. Each of the three main vocalists has some of their best work here (Kim Gordon on "Cross the Breeze", Lee Ronaldo on "Hey Joni", and Thurston Moore on "Candle" are a few highlights worth mentioning). For me, this is one of the albums that truly ushered in the 90s. It didn't create the blueprint for noise rock or grunge but it sure offered a lot of inspiration. Sonic Youth could have stopped here and basked in their cult status. But I'm not mad that they kept going. "Daydream Nation" is arguably their best but they did continue to make some great music after, even if it's very similar. One of my favorite concert memories will always be seeing this album played live in its entirety.

Loved it. Its going into standard rotation.

No wave classic

great album. classic distortion

My favorite from Sonic Youth and has been an inspiration for me many times. While I do enjoy Sonic Youth’s more experimental and noisy side I really love the more focused and structured side presented on this album. Easy 5 for me.

Wow, these folks have been at it a long time. I've heard a couple of songs from them, but haven't heard anything else. I immediately hear their influence in several bands I like. I hear At the Drive-In, Nirvana, and Frodus, among others. Is this considered post-punk? Good stuff, whatever it's called. This album was a banger. 5

Almost gave it six stars by accident. An all-time favourite and I only regret that my desktop doesn't have near enough volume to play this at blindness-inducing volumes.

Rock Band 2 was cool, right? Besides completing it with my beloved draughter, it was the first time I heard "PDA" by Interpol. But that is beside the point. Because I also believe it was the first time I heard "Teen Age Riot" by Sonic Youth. Of course, I knew Sonic Youth. I bought Goo in high school. It had some stuff I liked, but I was not inspired to collect Sonic Youth's discography. I think they set to punk out on their major label debut so they leaned into the noise. I now think it is a shame that I did not also pick up Daydream Nation. Dare I say that Daydream Nation is more accessible than Goo? Of course I dare say it. Talk is cheap. I mean, Daydream Nation still has its share of noise. But as I was listening to Daydream Nation, I wondered if I coined the term "prog punk." I never bothered to check. I would probably be inclined to give the album 4.5 stars, but since I cannot and I am feeling nostalgic, 5 stars it is.

A true achievement. The album where all members are firing at their max potential. A masterpiece

Guter Alternativ Rock, nicht geeignet für Autofahrt mit Familie.

Pure bliss! This was my first record of Sonic Youth, and still love to revisit it at times. It encapsulated my teenage angst with comforting distorted guitars, noise and endless dreamy chords driven by anger and destruction. The surreal and ambiguous lyrics, whether in "Hyperstation" ("Daydreaming days in a daydream nation"), "Hey Joni" or "Eric's Trip" and the reoccurring themes of cultural decay, consumerism, and the media did the rest for me at that time. 5/5

One of my all time favorites, happy to see it here. Dreamy and driving at the same time.

listening to Teenage Riot will always make me think about sitting by the campus greenhouse on a silent, chilly autumn night. laying on the garden bench and staring up at the stars. the sound of deer rustling through the nearby bushes. feeling a million miles away from the rest of the world. perfect.

Probably the best Sonic Youth album, if you don’t like this then you’re probably not going to like anything by them, or most of 90s US indie rock. It’s like if Trout Mask Replica was actually good (I don’t know, haven’t listened yet)

I mean, are you gonna liberate us girls from male white corporate oppression? Tell it like it is!

My favorite SY album.

I listened to this album a lot in my early teen years, but hadn't picked it up again in forever. It still holds up.

🗯 A noisy-as-fuck masterpiece. It kicks off with ‘Teen Age Riot’ — not only one of the best opening tracks on any record, but arguably the best Sonic Youth song, period. From there, Daydream Nation sprawls out like a double-vinyl fever dream: noise, melody, dissonance, and beauty smashed together until you’re not sure if your speakers are breaking or being reborn. Kim Gordon, Thurston Moore, Lee Ranaldo, and Steve Shelley put everything they had into this one, enough brilliance to justify the sprawl of a double album. It’s the moment where their downtown art-noise instincts met actual rock ambition — still messy, still wild, but undeniable. Sonic Youth are like good scotch: an acquired taste, but once you’re in, you’re all in. It’s easy to see why Kurt Cobain and an entire generation of alt-rock bands worshipped at this altar. Daydream Nation is the blueprint — restless, uncompromising, and still a mind-melter decades later. Just say yes. Verdict: Essential (the alternative nation’s constitution, etched in fuzz and feedback) For fans of: Nirvana, Pavement, My Bloody Valentine, sprawling guitar symphonies that feel like the end and beginning of the world

It's a alternative rock landmark, it begins with a call to arms and ends with a trilogy in classic rock style. Classic and a landmark double lp.

Great album

Pure perfect rock album

This has been one of my all time favorite albums for decades now and the most amazing thing to me is how fresh it sounds. Highly influential but still utterly unique and impossible to replicate, this is Sonic Yourh at its absolute best, Thurston, Kim. And Lee peaking as song writers and the band at its absolute noise rock finest. A rare double album without an ounce of fat or filler. I can’t wait to see what other SY records made the list

There's just so much spirit in this album, you can practically feel passion and dedication oozing with every single one of these songs. The melodies all put you in a trance every single time you hear one of the songs, to the point where by the time the album was up, I didn't even realize an hour had passed by. I can’t think of a better way to open an album like this. Teen Age Riot has always been one of my favorite songs ever since High School, setting the stage to the fast rock that's about to come, and the guitars are practically top notch Hendrix-quality when it comes to how they pump you up to listen to the rest of the album. To say this is the grand daddy of most alt and indie-rock bands puts it lightly, but its roots grow strong and this is genuinely an album I'll be looking forward to revisiting for quite a while.

Going in I know a couple Sonic Youth songs, but not a band I've ever done into deeper. Teen Age Riot is a great tune Silver Rocket makes interesting use of distortion. Cross the Breeze is a great tune, too. Also enjoying Eric's Trip. Total Trash goes hard, too Rain King is another one Banging album!

Save this album

obra prima? absurdamente bom? pqp é impossível descrever o fluxo de sentimento que eu tenho escutando esse pra mim é o apogeu da sonoridade. ngm nunca vai conseguir fazer oq eles fizeram no daydream nation. ninguém nunca vai puxar o som que foi puxado aqui.

é 5 sem pensar duas vezes. eu amo muito eles tudo que eu escuto e gosto é/foi por conta desse aqui. das maiores bandas do mundo e esse album aqui eh a obra-prima. o auge da barulhada com os toques singelos do rock independente estadunidense fez parte de um milhão de coisas da minha vida e continua passando por ela de forma avassaladora demais. lindo lindo lindo, mataria pra ver eles ao vivo!

Always important to know who had been pumping life into music all along.

I think I like the idea of this being my favorite album of all time, but if I'm being truthful, it's not. Still a five-starer

*THE* Sonic Youth album for anyone with even a passing interest in alt-rock. A mammoth album that reeks of importance to anyone who has picked up a guitar in the last 40 years - even those who may not have heard this album will have come across its acolytes and imitators. Here Sonic Youth have their noise, but they fully embrace tunes and melody and make something utterly glorious. Best Tracks: Teen Age Riot; 'Cross The Breeze; Candle

Masterpiece. Some of their greatest songs, the whole album has a pretty consistent texture, iconic cover, hugely influential. What else could you want. No notes, just flawless. Greatest alternative band ever. 19th perfect album, 783 albums in. Rating: 5.0

top one of my favorutites

I have been listening through all of Sonic Youth's album, and I personally feel this is their first 5 star album that seamlessly and brilliantly mixes their noise rock with alternative rock and the amazing vocal and songwriting chops they had. Beautiful dissonance.

Banger

If its good enough for the library of congress, its good enough for me

idk man I just like pop punk grunge rock songs that go dundundundundundundun with a bass line and a sick drumbeat top tracks: Eric’s Trip, Teen Age Riot

For the past 5 days, I've been listening to this record, among with the other picks of the list. The reason why it took me so long, is because sometimes I wasn't sure if I felt it belongs in the 5 stars category, but I finally made up my mind and here is what I feel about the album: Having only listened to this and 'EVOL', I believe Sonic Youth is a band that really do justice to their name, as they bring both some very interesting and unique ideas and have a very powerful and youthful energy. In comparition with 'EVOL', this record is not as chaotic or noisy, even though they still bring some noise passages like in the tracks 'The Sprawl' and 'Total Trash'. What truly sets apart this one from the '1986' release, which is unfortunately my only point of comparition, is how absurdly consistent it is. In general, I don't think there's a weak spot in the whole project. Maybe there are tracks that are not as strong as the best ones, but I feel they are incredible eitherway. In addition, I beleive it presents more emotions in comparition to the former: -I loved the beautiful melodies of the introductions of 'Teen Age Riot' and "'Cross the Breeze", and the ending of 'The Sprawl'. -The energetic and intense riffs of "'Cross the Breeze", 'Hey Joni' and 'Kissibality' are superb. -Tracks like 'Teen Age Riot', 'Eric's Trip' and 'Hey Joni' I feel are very charming. -'Provindence' and 'Hyperstation' are some of the most haunting songs of the album, but there's also a cople of moments with the same vibes in 'Candle' and "'Cross the Breeze". At this point, you may have realized that some songs do have differents feelings, which brings me to another of the strongest points of the project: The tracks are incredibly well put together. Not only how the songs were composed, but also how they transition from one to the next. In my opinion, the best example would be the transition from 'The Sprawl' and "'Cross the Breeze'" and the last song mentioned. It has a beautiful introduction and an intense and haunting riff. This album was magnificent, but I would say that I do not think it is perfect. Nevertheless, given how much I've been enjoying this album, how much I've been listening to it without it getting boring and how consitent it is, I have to say it is one of my favourite discoveries from this list.

5+ Stars (15/15) A rhythmic, poetic, energetic masterpiece.

teenage riot!

Everything comes together. Just too good for mere words to do it justice. Love everything about this album. The perfect album for listening to while walking around after dark in autumn.

This is probably Sonic Youth's best album. Effortlessly cool; Kim Gordon's detached voice really suits the material.

I like Sonic Youth in a sort of pedestrian way -- LOVE Incinerate, probably my favorite song of all time. I've listened to Rather Ripped in full several times and I like a lot of the songs on it. I've listened to Goo too, and I love Kool Thing and Tunic. I listened to the Burning Spear and Kill Yr Idols (?) so I've even listened to their sorta darker stuff. Then there are miscellaneous songs I like, mostly hits -- Bull In the Heather, Purr, 100%, Schizophrenia, Shaking Hell, etc. etc. But I've never listened to Daydream Nation in full, so I'm excited. I've always liked the cover. Teen Age Riot: I think this was the first Sonic Youth song I listened to. It was their biggest hit according to Apple Music at the time, so I went for it first, naturally. I remember thinking, "wow, this is so long" and "wow, how long do they just say 'spirit desire' for?" And I went to school and played it for Maya and we both scrunched up our faces, but in retrospect, I'm not sure why. It's such an agreeably good song, which I guess is a little rare for Sonic Youth. It's smooth and fast and sort of reminds me of Panic Switch by the Silversun Pickups (another song I love). Very quick and sort of catchy but still feels like something real. Or maybe Everlong. It's just a really nice song. Sort of captures that dazed, youthful enjoyment of a rebellious evening or whatever. Great song (duh). Silver Rocket: Like it a lot. I used to always say that I liked music that "chased something" and this (as well as Teen Age Riot) feels like that. I'll say I don't like his voice as much on this song for some reason. But still great. The Sprawl: At the beginning, her cadence and attitude remind me a lot of Stephen Malkmus, especially in Conduit for Sale! (awesome song off Slanted and Enchanted) but as it goes on it definitely gets more Sonic Youthy. Very long and hazy and almost ritualistically repetitive. Sometimes their songs sound like seances to me. This seems like it's maybe about drugs(?) or something which reminds me of one of my favorite Sonic Youth songs, I Love You Mary Jane (ft. Cypress Hill) where she also does lots of repeating. Then its length and how it gets progressively less musical remind me of that one twenty-ish minute song they have, Diamond Sea or whatever. I don't love when they do this because I can't really tell if it has a point but it's not bad. Cross the Breeze: Starting with a more melodic and sentimental tune than I'm used to from Sonic Youth, but then going quite quickly to their classic dissonance again. Then it gets nice and quick, sort of reminding me of Electioneering by Radiohead. Now it's even cooler because they've got this nice sinuous riff! Wow I sure am ridiculous with the way I'm describing music today. I love it so far. Kim's vocals are shouty and reckless, careless. Raw. Love it. Ends similarly to other songs. These songs are all quite long but it's a real experience. Eric's Trip: My head's on straight, my girlfriend's beautiful! That's the dream. One of the more positive Sonic Youth songs but then it's a trip, I guess. For Sonic Youth, it's a pretty short and sweet song. Very cool and psychedelic and dream-like. Total Trash: I'm enjoying this more lighthearted stuff. Magic monkey friend! Nevermind, not seeming very lighthearted and Curious George-y anymore. Seeming scary with this pulsating, chaotic instrumental near the end -- I really like it. Better than their usual endings. This is very exciting, feels like it's creating some world full of havoc. Hey Joni: I like this quite a lot too. Very fast and has that dissonance/discord wedged between verses, which I prefer to like, straight minutes of it at the end. Still manages to have a nice, sort of whimsical melody going on. She's a beautiful metal jukebox! I like songs by indie rock artists because the more cryptic lyrics make you think but also sort of allow you not to. Kick it! Super cool. More rocky-rolly than most of their songs. Still really intense and cool with that Sonic Youth edge, though. Providence: I like interludes like this where they do weird spoken word and stuff. I like this. Still somehow quite musical and short enough for me not to be annoyed with it. I'd like to figure out how this is supposed to add to the narrative of this album. It reminds me of the voicemails a bit from Rent. Kinda can't believe this was one of their singles though. Candle: Wow, like in the album cover! Not sure I'm loving these vocals. I'm a little iffy on Thurston Moore sometimes. No, they're good. I like the little riffs and stuff, nice and lilty. Stupid mouth! I feel like this song actually gets better at the end. It's cool. I like that he's talking to a candle. He's a little Stephen Malkmus, too, actually. I hear they inspired Pavement, too, so that's cool. Rain King: Can we get Kim again? This is a pretty cool, disorienting song. Then I like this drum part. Kissability: Thank god it's Kim again! I love her harshness. I think the lyrics are good and the weird, unsettling instrumental is super cool. Really quick, intense guitar and then that recess of calm. I love her voice. So desperate and so real. Trilogy a) The Wonder: Did I already hear this song or something? Oh, no, I like this. Wondertown. Sort of groovy even if it's not meant to be. Trilogy b) Hyperstation: Also sort of dreamlike, kind of downbeat. I come from female imagination. I really admire their poetry. Daydream Nation -- that's the name of the album! The album definitely feels sort of daydreamy. Like the tension in the guitar and the drums and whatever. Makes me a little uneasy, but I think that's the point. Trilogy c) Eliminator Jr.: Oh this is so cool. Kim Gordon is so hot and so angry and so awesome. Fuck I love her. This sort of young scrappy punky valley girl thing is really hot and really cool. Eliminator Jr. is right. Sounds like a fight. Industrious and harsh and badass and it sounds great. A great album. Like, a 9.5/10. If I had a complaint, it'd be that the songs are a little long, but it's totally an experience and I love it. I like Sonic Youth so much and this is a GREAT album from them, tied with (or maybe better) than Rather Ripped. So cool.

thoughts: i mean, come on. one of my favorite albums of all time, my second sonic youth album in five days on this project, and it never gets old. (and yes, we stan “providence” in this house!) songs: “teen age riot”, “’cross the breeze”, “providence” rating: 9.6/10

Noisy, distorted and raw in all of the best ways

Gritty and noisy with heart. Punk - post-punk at its best

This is #day336 of my #1001albumsyoumusthearbeforeyoudie challenge, and… my first Sonic Youth record on the list. I've got to agree with something Chino Moreno (Deftones) once said in an interview: that every band has this one album where everything coalesces, where each member functions as part of a single whole, ultimately delivering a record that defines the band. He cited Interpol's debut and Deftones' White Pony as examples. Now, as for Sonic Youth, I do think Daydream Nation is that kind of album... You don't need to say much about it. The music speaks for itself. The flow, the mood, the tension... all there. I can't wait to revisit the rest of their catalogue, as Sonic Youth has always been one of my favorite bands from the alt/indie rock scenes of the '80s and '90s (even though I think they're slightly overrepresented on this list). Also… I fucking love Kim Gordon. She's hot. This is a 5 out of 5. Looking forward to #day337.

Listened to the deluxe version by mistake oops. This band having a woman is so good. Kim Gordon so cool 😍

Now I have nothing to look forward to

I'm ashamed I've never listened to a Sonic Youth album, so this is my first. They have such a cool sound. I love how they make their distorted guitars sound so clean. I can hear echos and the inspiration of Sonic Youth in a lot of later bands. The lyrics are more spoken than sung and it works well with Sonic Youth where a lot of times with other acts it's something that bothers me. The songs are all beefy with substance and variance that keeps them all interesting. There are a lot of cool buildups and shifts and twists and turns. There's not a bad song on this beast of an album. Standouts: "Teen Age Riot" "The Sprawl" "Total Trash" and the ending trilogy. Overall, really cool album. It was an experience. I can see where people dont like some of the noise, but damn I want to live in it. Daydream Nation is a new favorite. I'm excited to go listen to more. 5 stars for sure.

one of my favorite albums of all time.

One of the most addictive albums I've ever listened to. 70 minute long journey, all killer, no filler. Squarely among my favorite albums of all time

Me gusta que combine variados géneros. Tiene una vibra adelantada a los 2000. Es reconocido por la Rolling Stone y realmente es básico como para empezar a escuchar Sonic Youth

A quintessential noise rock album. One of my favourites of all time. I love pretty much everything about this album. The perfomances from every band member is great and you can really here the Glenn Branca influence shine through here. 9/10 Favourite: The Sprawl Least Favourite: None

I have this in my collection...though I was a bit of a latecomer to Sonic Youth. I rate this album pretty highly, it has that great blend of slightly raucous sound with quite melodic stuff.

Still sounds timeless and classic. I discovered this in the early 2000s and kind of thought it sounds like a lot of other stuff around at the time. Then I realized it came out in 1988. A great example of alt rock.

Noisy and boisterous with buckets of attitude. They must have been absolute killers to see live.

Really enjoyed this one which was surprising since I didn’t like the previous album, Sister, that I had from them.

The original indie darlings with a breakout instant classic.

As a fan of Sonic Youth and this album in particular, I gotta ask... Why are there FOUR Sonic Youth albums (so far) on this list? It's not like they changed their sound or direction at any point. It's Noise Rock, not the most accessible genre on the market. If someone doesn't like "Goo", are they in any way likely to enjoy this one? There's a far greater chance that it would push them away, much like how my hatred of Morrissey grows every time he pops up here (which seems to be almost weekly). I have not read the source material book, so I'm unable to read The Author's rationale for including multiple entries from the same artist. It seems to me that he obsesses over certain artists to the exclusion of others that deserve a listen.

Slaps

Foundational, indispensable

I've never listened to a full Sonic Youth album before and this was definitely the one to listen to. Blew me away. I love Kim Gordon's vocals so much and I think Thurston Moore's are a good contrast to keep things fresh. I was about to list my favorite tracks but really I like them all and there's enough variance in the sound that every one of them stands out. Has to be a 5.

I can see how this influenced so many 90s indie rock bands. Great album to think to

What's not to love about Sonic Youth?

I think the only show I have ever been to that seriously affected my hearing was Sonic Youth. I went with a friend and we stupidly stood right next to a speaker. The feedback was intense, and the show was in an especially old concert hall that has since been torn down. "Teenage Riot", when I heard it live, seemed to float above the crowd, who didn't dance as much as bob gently. The overall feel of the song matches its lyrics - it just keeps going, which is what, I guess, was Sonic Youth's message about teenagehood. As someone who has since spent over a quarter century spending the majority of my time with teenagers, I can attest that they, collectively, are a force that can't really be stopped. I like the fact that the band was moving into their thirties when this record came out. It makes me think that sometimes, adults have essential insight into what it means to be a teen. They've thought about it longer. Sonic Youth really got inside my head and were able to take the angsty energy of my adolescence and give it a sound - a sound that could fuel songs well over five minutes and a double album of music that didn't ever wane.

Love this band, and this is easily one of their best albums. Their droning wall-of-noise sound is something you feel as much as hear. The compositions evolve as they progress, building on simplicity and repetition, and ultimately exploding with chaotic energy. Years of previous experimentation results in full understanding here.

Surprisingly good

I saw them on the tour for this. Completely rocked my world. The South Bank Show documentary from around the same time is worth seeking out. It has some great live to camera performances including a wild half abandoned broken string Silver Rocket.

Tough to get in to but once you do it's really rewarding

Stunning. Channeling the attitude and power of Rock and Roll through a wholly novel harmonic conception - not new ways of using Bach's or Ellington's harmonies, but a modal exploration of a brand new harmonic universe, and Monk's equal in the ability to build structure and gorgeous melody out of layer upon layer of dissonance - to deliver songs that, somehow, are completely coherent. Makes almost everything else ever recorded sound cliche.

Such a beautiful dreamscape. The sound may not be unique, but it's masterful and pitch perfect, done better than anyone else does it.

When I was in high school I wanted to like Sonic Youth more than I did in the hopes it would make me cool. I just really admired and idolized Kim Gordon and thought the music itself was just fine. I think I actually now fit into those once-too big shoes. Genuinely loved every minute of this.

Listening to this makes me feel cool.

Of course a great album . Listened to it everyday on a tape once upon a time

Holy shit. Fantastic album.

Teen Age Riot is still one of the prettiest songs. No one talks about how pretty the guitar work can be with this band. They are so great at discord and noise that it’s easy to forget. Ultimately that’s what makes them so special. I like this so much more now.

NOISE! One of the greatest albums ever by one of the greatest bands ever! Such a perfect mix of melody and distortion and dissonance and so much more. Perfect.

by far my favorite & the most listenable sonic youth record. i'm glad they made the decision to apply their texture work to a pop structure, it's an illuminated stroke of genius. hey joni's harmonics sections are galvanizing & the entire record is just filled with an unstoppable restlessness. fantastic pre-weekend build-up material!

This album came out when I was 13 and it blew me away. It is music so emotive and visceral, it demands attention. A sea of noise and rhythm and riffs...it slams into your chest and sets its' hooks into you and gives you 70 minutes journeying across a landscape of sound.

This has to be close to the platonic ideal of noisy rock, right? They make a whole atmosphere and soundscape out of noise that never quite stops being rock.

Awesome, probably my favorite Sonic Youth album I’ve gotten so far. This will be added to my regular rotation

SY at it's undeniable best. Everything you want on this record. A true classic.

If you ever need to explain the concept of je n'ais ce quoi to someone, play them a few post punk albums by other artists then play them Daydream Nation. Virtually any adjective you can apply to those bands and those albums - angular, disaffected, dissonant, incendiary, jagged, muscular, sneering, etc - also applies to Sonic Youth, but there's an unidentifiable *more* to SY, especially on Daydream Nation, that those other bands, many of them incredible in their own right, simply do not have.

Well yea the intro song has been stuck in my head since the day i first heard it. Love this one

interesting album does not sound like it is from the eighties

Timeless and still sounds fresh to this day. A massive, monster of an album. Perfect.

like being hugged by a thunderstorm. i genuinely might have to sleep to this album sometime lmao, for as obvious as the punky/noisey bones are, somewhere inbetween a bunch of musicians wildly thrashing around and me actually hearing it theres this comforting layer of removal, an eye of the storm type effect. and yet its still obviously exhilarating too...each new riff and guitar passage feels like it carries with it the ability to make me Lose My Mind if it hits me just right. yet another record that makes me think about how music is Touched into existence, and those touches are turned into Memory via recording technology. magickal record. if u saw my 3.5 rating from five years ago, no you didnt

First thing, I can't believe this was 1988, because it sounds so 90s alt and definitely not trapped in 80s reverb production from hell. Music like this can really go either way with me, but very rarely does it affect me like this does. I freaking love it. I feel like the more chaotic parts of the album add to the palate of these well crafted songs. It makes them blister, while still being accessible to my tastes. Not quite a fiver, but pretty damn near. (9.75) ★★★★½

Congeals the disparate veins the 80s underground - art school punk, hardcore, post-punk, post-rock, no-wave, experimental composition, noise rock - into an album that's dissonant & melodic, angry & blissful, distorted & chrystaline, grimy & pure, heavy & ethereal, earthy & haunted, driving & sprawling, tense & cathartic. Perfect.

This is a band that on paper I should like. I keep hoping to find “the album”. So far I like the opening track. Ok. Three tracks in. This is what I imagined when I read articles about sonic youth. This is the album I was looking for. ‘Cross the breeze has elements of what would be used for metal break downs later. This is a really good album. It’s almost punk New Age music. “Total trash” is another standout. I love the intro to “Trilogy a: the wonder”.

General impression: awesome, obviously Detailed review: Going into this, I predicted I’d give it a 4. Listening to it, I’m going back and forth between 4 and 5. Obviously it’s a masterpiece, and it’s one of the albums I have a decent amount of familiarity with going in. I’ve definitely listened to the whole thing at least 5 or 6 times and several tracks many more times, but it’s been many years since my last “Sonic Youth phase” and it’s really nice to go back to them. It’s funny, after listening to a lot of Thurston Moore solo albums (and being largely bored by them), I feel differently about the band lineup. Kim is the spiritual leader, but Ranaldo is I think my favorite. I don’t know what guitar parts are his, but I love his vocals and lyrics. Anyway, this album is incredible and a lot of that is the perfection of the production capturing the raucous, chaotic Sonic Youth sound in a studio context. I am still not sure if this is my favorite SY album…I’m very partial to Goo and Dirty, not to mention later albums like Murray St. and Sonic Nurse. But I cannot deny that this album deserves its reputation as Sonic Youth’s defining piece of work. Deeper thoughts (context): Despite the influence this album has clearly had on future generations of rock artists, I still don’t think anyone’s captured the same magic since them. Score: 4.6 (5 for this list) Number of albums left to review: 970 Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 18 (including this one) Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 13

"Experimental double album" is usually a phrase that sends a shiver down my spine, but this is a joy from start to finish. My only criticism is starting with the wonderful Teen Age Riot seems like a waste; just imagine how great it would feel if it was the payoff after one of the more difficult tracks instead.

Even though I personally didnt feel much from these songs, which left me a bit cold, it deserves the hype and I see the vision. Its a Literally every indie band nowadays sounds like they’re trying to be Sonic Youth. But yea, this is like the Beatles White album for indie/alt kids. If I wouldve discovered this as a teenager I would have ate it up.

Sonic Youth is so cool. They have the beats per minute that make you want to go go, but this cool veneer that seems so chill. They take time to meander some on this album too, which could go on all day IMO.

Ah, finally, I get to review Daydream Nation! After I graduated from college in the late aughts, I heard about the 1001 albums book. I found a list of the albums in it online somewhere, and started picking out things to buy and listen to. Daydream Nation was one of the first albums I went for, and I remember how much it blew my mind. I had always thought of alternative rock as something that started in the nineties, but Sonic Youth blew the doors off those expectations. This isn’t an album I’ve gone back to a frequently, and aside from “Teenage Riot,” I couldn’t tell you the last time I listened to it in its entirety (holy shit, this is 70 minutes long? No wonder I haven’t listened to it in a while), but I’m excited for the chance to revisit it today. Man, this album is *a lot*. It’s brilliant, but hot damn, that was like getting my ass kicked for the length of an HBO drama. I guess I’ll start my talking about “Teenage Riot,” which might be in the running for best lead-off track of all time. The way those guitars start with a shoegaze shimmer, and then everything turns into a distorted madhouse is nothing short of brilliant. The drumming is fantastic too, and my mind is always blown at just how great the drumming sounds from the first click of the drumsticks until the last note. I don’t know that I really want to dig into the other songs on this album, mostly because I don’t have the time, but also because I think Daydream Nation works so well in its sprawling entirety. This album is chaotic and noisy, but there’s a precision to all the chaos. I love that, in spite of the noise and distortion, each song has something melodic and accessible to it. Daydream Nation is an absolute masterclass in alternative rock, and its influence can be felt throughout the nineties, as alternative rock grew in popularity. This album takes the listener on a journey, and at times, it can be too much, but I don’t know that there’s any fat to trim from this album, because every part of every song feels necessary to the album as a whole. I’d love to say that this is one of my favorite albums, but that’s not the case. However, I think it’s a brilliant work of music, and it’s worthy of the reputation it has as one of the best rock albums of all time.

An essential album of my teenage (riot) years. It could stand to be a tiny bit shorter, but no other complaints. I love every atunal, feedback-ridden rock dork note of it.

I'm mad at 15 year old me for not listening to this unadulterated masterpiece when it came out! Mesmerizing, hypnotic, beautiful, snarling, menacing, vulnerable. Just fantastic stuff.

This still sounds bloody good.

I can see why this album is in the Library of Congress.

Kim Gordon saying FU in The Sprawl is my kink.

Not much better

Should have been the magnun opus of Sonic Youth. But they kept making records, all of them incredible. This band is nuts. Also Teen-Age Riot is easily their best song

Aunque en mi lista personal le di un 5, le voy a dar un 4. No venga, un 5.

It seems as though I've finally gotten out of the rut of 3/5 albums. Daydream Nation is a great album. I know, right? This is my third Sonic Youth album of the project, and it is easily the best one so far. This just feels the most like a cohesive musical statement. The sound is noisy yet still weirdly pleasant to listen to at times. It's probably the best part of the album. That's not to say that it falters with its other elements. The vocals enforce this sense of angst that ties the whole album together. The writing is certainly interesting, but still quite good. The album's opener, "Teen Age Riot," is one of the band's most popular songs, and for good reason. It's a great song, and the others are almost as good as it. Daydream Nation is 70 minutes long, but the album is so sonically dense that it doesn't drag whatsoever. It kept me engaged, which is something of an accomplishment for 70+ minute long album. This may not be the best 70+ minute long album that I've listened to this week. I do prefer To Pimp a Butterfly. However, there really isn't any reason to compare the two albums given how different they are, so I won't! But there is one thing that makes these albums similar in my eyes. They're both phenomenal pieces of music. I'm proud to announce that I finally loved a Sonic Youth album. Light 5/5.

The most timeless Sonic Youth. The most listenable without feeling the respective weight of its era. With one other exception, the rest of their albums sound rooted in their respective time whether it be the 80s, 90s, or 00s. That's not always a bad thing, some of these other records are also among my favorite Sonic Youth albums. But Daydream Nation is special in how it glides in and across all times. It exists as daydream itself.

I don’t always love Sonic Youth, but I do love this record. That is, perhaps, typical.

What luck. Two of my favourite albums two days in a row. End of a really good week in fact. Really think Sonic Youth caught lightning in a bottle with this one, nothing they did before or after came anywhere close, and lord I've tried finding. First 4 songs are an absolutely unbelievable opening sequence, guitar tone sounds like nothing I've heard elsewhere, the tuning is absolutely mental as I found out later. Dips a bit in the middle but the ending is again stellar. Wish I'd found it when I was 15 and 25, would have changed the course of my music journey I reckon.

Why is it that every time I don't expect to love an album (based on no evidence), I get hit with a banger!! Much harder edge than I expected so bonus points!! Songs kept topping previous ones for my new favourite. Not sure which won out in the end between Total Trash and Candle. A) The Wonder would be up there too if they hadn't used a rubber chicken in the drumset (?) Also I enjoyed that the guy sang 'it's total trash' as my train went past a car scrapyard

Yup - there’s that shoe-in for best alternative album ever. The coolest thing about this album is how it pays it forward to all that came after - Radiohead and Foo Fighters especially (more so than Nirvana) - as well as fondly looking back at influences like ZZ Top and Joni Mitchell. I got so many pleasurable hairs on the back of my neck with this disc. It’s a cool magic trick - the zeitgeist of noise rock morphing into something beautiful and resonant. All of my words pale in comparison David Bowie’s review: “[this] is an extraordinary album”. I should not say more.

All timer

It’s crazy how Sonic Youth has five albums on this list and I’m getting my first one over 500 days in, nearly halfway through. The thing about this is that I’m not the biggest fan of this - I still like it, but I don’t necessarily love it - but its influence cannot be overstated. Since it’s still a good album on top of that, I feel like it still deserves 5 stars.

Road trip music doesn't get much better than this.

I haven’t listened to this in so long. Really enjoyed it especially the instrumental parts

Although I had never heard a single track from this album before, it fitted snugly into a gap in my music that I never even knew existed. Somewhere in between the Velvet Underground, the Pixies, Pavement, and the Wedding Present, there was a little hole that is now neatly and perfectly filled. Listening to this was a rather strange experience, as I felt like I was hearing something I knew really well, instead of having to struggle to come to terms with a fresh sound. It was also fantastic to have not a single duff track, no filler, nothing that failed to hit the mark. Some tracks were definitely stand out on a first listen, particularly TeenAge Riot, but I feel there will be a great reward for future listens.

Noise rock, alternative rock. An absolutely phenomenal album. Really just a masterpiece of vibes. I'd love to listen to it another time and really digest the lyrics, but just the music alone is enough. It's lush and deep but not too heavy. Like I'm floating on top of it. I really loved it. Will revisit. 5/5.

I listen to so many bands clearly influenced by this

Artsy noise rock so intricate, it’s almost…psychedelic? They’d probably hate that. But I can listen to this one endlessly and never get tired of it and always find something new. One of very few double-length works in which I become utterly involved with every single second.

Love Sonic Youth

Great

and now, for your listening enjoyment, Sonic Youth. Always enjoyable, such a treat.

The importance of sonic youth has still not been credited as of today a top notch group of musicians making groundbreaking experimental punk rock music while the world was still going string on glam rock and what we know as classic rock. Kim Gordon Im still in love with, thirston moore still has not been recognized as he should for his guitar and composing skills. Much above everyone elses at the time and probably today. This is a top album anywhere you put it and its still sounds like it was recorded today and not 35 years ago. Held up and it will for eternity.

This is an all time favourite, I had saved it to cleanse my ears should I have a run of terrible albums.

"Daydream Nation" is the fifth studio album by American alternative rock band Sonic Youth. There are lots of genres to label their music but I'd just call it alternative rock with unorthodox guitar tuning and song structures. The lyrical themes deal with burnout, the music industry and the crack epidemic. Actually, they sing a lot about drugs to my ears; the music makes more sense then. This double album received wide-spread critical acclaim earning them a major label deal and had a profound influence on indie and alternative music. Yes. In 2005, the Library of Congress put it in the National Recording Registry for its artistic significance. "Teen Age Riot" begins the blast off. Off-key guitar chords, singer/bassist Kim Gordon repeating "No you're it." That stops. A fast, distorted guitar begins the melody and the band kicks in. Yeah, this song has always rocked to me. Guitarist Thurston Moore on lead vocals as he is describing an alternative universe with Dinosaur Jr.'s J. Mascis as president. It could be worse...It has been worse. The second song "Silver Rocket" continues the musical assault. It's fast and punk and eventually goes into noise chaos (that's like every Sonic Youth song). I think the silver rocket is heroin or some other drug. You eventually find that a Kim Gordon song is your favorite and there's a couple here. "'Cross the Breeze" has a nice alternative-sounding melodic guitar. This is fast. Kim wants to know. What about? I think it's got be about the drugs. She changes topic on "Kissability." This is dramatic. Sex appeal will get you famous. You think? The album ends with the sprawling "Trilogy." The first part "The Wonder" is based on author's James McElroy portrayal of mysterious LA. Here, Moore does it to NYC. "Hyperstation" is mostly an instrumental with lots of feedback. This has got to be about a drug trip. "Eliminator Jr." is named so since the song sounds like a mixture of ZZ Top and Dinosaur Jr. And it does. Distorted guitars and pounding drums. Woah, this is a big album and a great one at that. Dreamy, hard, punk, stoner, and trippy all describe the music. There's long jams with feedback and noise. Steve Shelby's drums are fabulous. They definitely try to out-hip the hipster mentioning or referencing William Gibson, J. Mascis, Andy Warhol, LSD, heroin, crack, Joni Mitchell, Jimi Hendrix and Pere Ubu. The songs start melodic and nearly all of them end in some sort of chaos and destruction. My kind of music and probably their best album.

Aunque en mi lista personal le di un 5, le voy a dar un 4. No venga, un 5.

This album is amazing full stop.

Another major album from Sonic Youth! Once again, I'm not overly familiar with their work but it's a real pleasure to dig into their discography thanks to 10001albums. Daydream Nation is more raw than Goo, really abrasive, there is a punk urgency to their sound, but paradoxically they take their time to develop their songs. Noise is everywhere, they are always on the verge of sound chaos. And what an intro! Great album.

Sonic Bliss. Easy contender for a desert island album, there is just so much happening across these tracks that it is hard to exhaust. All timer Kim songs, Thurston songs, and Lee songs. Probably not my fav sonic youth album, but it is the most sonic youth album.

There should be a sixth star for special occasions

Perfect album and opening track to wake up to.

עשר מתוך עשר. חוץ מחצר מלך הארגמן, זה האלבום הכי טוב שהאזנתי אליו מהאפליקציה.

Man, it's great to feel 16 again...

I can’t believe I have never listened to this album. This is flippin incredible. I love the distortion, I love the vocals. This is truly an incredible album.

Icónico

Loved it! The grunge the lyrics the melody amazing combo

this album fucking rocks!!!! a new all timer for me .. so many amazing guitar riffs can feel an obsession mounting

Daydream Nation was the first SY album I've heard in a Walmart parking lot about 3 years ago during a roadtrip, late at night before going to sleep. At first, I didn't understand it. I was very new to anything like noise rock. So then I played it again and picked up on some beautiful harmonies in between. Since then, I've listened to most of their 80s and 90s output. And revisiting Daydream Nation, I can understand why this is their masterpiece. No other album balances the abrasive distortion and punk energy with the most heartwarming, beautiful melodies. It can be so warm and fuzzy yet full of personality, emotion, and pure chaos. And they're about to do this within each track smoothly. Take "The Sprawl" which is an accessible punk track with harsh drumming but a nice groove, that very slowly and patiently transitions into the most beautiful melody. The layers of instruments clash yet harmonize with each other to come off as multi-dimensional. One guitar is focused on absurdly high distortion but yet is the same volume as the other guitar which is repetitive and fuzzy, serving as an incredible juxtaposition that balances each other. Strong start, with the indie rock anthem "Teen Age Riot" impossible to dislike. It's catchy with memorable, nostalgic riffs and choruses. We start off with a pleasant 2-minute intro that erupts into a song you couldn't resist to dance or sing to. We then get punk craziness to let off all that tension in the last two minutes. Following up is "Silver Rocket", the most hardcore track on here, with a melody that almost sounds like Radiohead. In the middle we get a crazy display of their talent in distortion, proving we haven't forgotten Velvet Underground, yet it ties so well with the rest of the track. It builds and builds before leading back to the chorus. It's such a complete and satisfying track. "The Sprawl" is a long track in the disguise as pop punk with Gordon's accessible yet energetic vocals and minimalist lyrics. You can't help but follow the flow of the guitar melodies as it takes you all over. The extended ending is just so beautiful and dreamy. "Cross the Breeze" is a candidate for my favorite track. The guitar melody starts out as jangly and ethereal before erupting into pure chaos and energy. Absolutely love Gordon's catchy vocals and the dreamy guitars against the ferocity of the surf rock energy. Crazy how 3 of the first 4 songs are 7 minutes and yet they all feel complete and justified in their timestamps. "Eric's Trip" is a standard Sonic Youth track, and a great one at that, with lyrics from Warhol's Chelsea Girls. Love the swirly shoegaze guitar, matching the chaos and uncertainty of the lyrics. "Total Trash" is a nice groovy piece with chill vocals. The distortion in the middle of the track is one of the most complex and well-executed of the record. Super impressive. "Hey Joni" is another track that balances pleasant melodies with high punk energy. It's fast, loud, and abrasive yet accessible, especially with the catchy repetitive riffs. Great closing. "Providence" is a successful break between the tracks. It's a bit of an outlier but still fits in the context of the album, and probably has the best placement in the track order. It's pleasant and lo-fi with subtle radio-like fuzz. Personally, I think it serves to bring more context to their skills with how they play with distortion, allowing me to pay more attention to those aspects in other tracks. "Candle" is another top favorite. It's so dreamy, warm, and catchy despite his harsh (almost screaming) vocal style and and distorted guitars. Later, we get another incredible distortion solo that for some reason comforts me despite how unsettling it tries to be. "Rain King" is personally my least favorite but still incredible. It's angry with a high sense of urgency and eeriness. Huge fan of the tribal drumming and the high fuzz that sounds like a radio frequency. "Kissability" is a nice pop punk track with horror undertones. Reminds me of EVOL. Love the second half when it erupts into chaos. It prepares us for the end. Finally, we have the trilogy. "The Wonder" is a nice start with great storytelling and catchy chorus. It picks up crazier and crazier before the epic finish, that smoothly transitions into "Hyperstation" which sounds like a hazy dream. It's long and dreamy, one of the quieter tracks. "Eliminator Jr" is our quick punk closer that almost feels incomplete but has a nice satisfying ending. What sets Daydream Nation apart from their other albums? - By far, this is their most consistent. - Every track has their purpose, showing off different talents and techniques that don't feel rehashed. No tracks to be removed. Every track deserves its timestamp, never feels rushed or dragged on. - Fantastic track order, with the strong start, appropriate middle tracks, and epic closing few. - Many outstanding tracks that can be enjoyed both in the context of the album and on their own. - The best balance between being accessible, ambient, and abrasive, with both low and high energy It's clear to me why Daydream Nation is their best album. And on top of their influence and innovation, it deserves to be an album that everyone should listen to before they die.

Only problem is length here. Too long for a noise rock album. But its genius

Sonic Youth has released many albums since the early 80's. They started out as an art-noise band that featured a lot of improvisational sounds that sometimes lacked song structure and melody. Progressively, the band's sound expanded and became an "alternative" rock band that gained some commercial attention riding the wave of like-sounding alt-rock "indie" bands in the early 90's. Thing is, Sonic Youth was making that music a decade earlier and their sound was influential to many bands in the 90's. All of their albums are interesting for different reasons, but I found their sweet spot was the double LP, Daydream Nation, an epic record that still had the edge, intensity and abrasiveness of their earlier albums and weaved in a melodic and structured sound that stands as their best work. I kick myself for not buying the double LP back in the day, but I did tape my brother's copy and played it obsessively and have since bought the deluxe CD version with a live version of the album as the second disc. An amazing band who's live shows were incredible and though they never recorded anything as fine as Daydream Nation, they didn't sell out their sound too much and stayed on the path of making some decent underrated records.

One of the very exciting things about Daydream Nation is that you're never quite sure when or if it'll all fall apart. Occasionally an otherwise solid riff devolves into noise or discord. It's all in favor of keeping you on your toes and taking you along for a wonderful jouyrney.

Probably not my personal favorite SY album, but definitely a classic and full of great songs. Still earns the 5 pretty handily IMHO.

Teen Age Riot takes me bak to simpler times, and this whole album just makes me want to go out and shoot skate videos with fisheye lenses...

I am a big grunge fan and this is a great album from this era.

based as fuck 9.7/10

Amazing album and a band that was a huge influence to many of the bands that broke through a couple a years later.

This music is the best when the volume is all the way up

Haven't listened to this since flat sitting for David in, what, 2013? It's probably the most evocative of their live sound. I love Sonic Youth.

as a huge pixies and nirvana fan, I love this album. it is grassroots grunge, with the same feel and emotion, but a bit more experimental and almost 60s sounding at points.

I absolutely adored this. Sometimes that wall of sound is overwhelming and sometimes you just want to sink into it.

Þessi plata er svo mikil snilld. Vanstilltir gítarar hafa aldrei hljómað betur. Fyrstu þrjú lögin neglur og svo er bara keyrt fulla leið áfram. Elska hraðaskiptingarnar. Höfðu mikil áhrif á allt það sem á eftir kom. No Sonic Youth = No Nirvana.

Sounds like revolution

I got into Sonic Youth around my freshman year of college. This was the first album I heard from them and I remember how listening to this while driving under gray skies just fit somehow. (Maybe the reference to stormy weather on Teen Age Riot?) Anyway this album started a big love for this band. Maybe it's because it was first, but this has remained my favorite. They have some other really great albums but this is always the one I'm most likely to play if it's been a while since I spent time with SY

Not my kind of music but it is now. I love this.

The crown jewel of Sonic Youth’s discography and an unassailable alt-rock masterpiece.

I was somewhat familiar with the sonic youth (mostly from Ed Templeton's 'Welcome to Hell' part) but had never listened to an album in full before. This one is really really good. Super noisy and eclectic, and I think it's aged very well. I am a bit of a post punk sucker so it feels right up my alley. Also Providence Rhode Island mentioned

A culmination of what was being worked towards and, somewhat oddly, a looming presence that was both unrepresentative of their oveure and a hallmark of their career, Daydream Nation is Sonic Youth not only in full flight but at the height of their powers. Starting off with one of the plenty of clarion calls that would summon the big bang of '91, it was off to the races from here on out as Daydream Nation represents a documentation of a more carefree, rambunctious time; less Disneyland and more delirious hellscape. Of course, the no wave kids had to grow up some time and this is one hell of a way to plant a flag. Put it all behind you, for I've put it all behind me too.

Good lord, this album is absolutely brilliant. It's psychedelic alternative, and I cannot get enough of it. Seriously, the instrumentals here are so special. They almost contribute more to the melody than the vocals. Favorite tracks: The Sprawl, Eric's Trip, Hyperstation

Daydream Nation" by Sonic Youth is widely regarded as a landmark album in the alternative and indie rock genres. Released in 1988, the album showcases Sonic Youth at the peak of their creative powers, blending noise rock, punk, and avant-garde elements into a unique and influential sonic experience. Lyrics: The lyrics on "Daydream Nation" are often abstract and poetic, reflecting the band's interest in surrealism and avant-garde literature. Thurston Moore and Kim Gordon's vocals intertwine, creating a dynamic contrast between Moore's more melodic and Gordon's more abrasive delivery. The lyrics explore themes of alienation, youth culture, and the anxieties of the contemporary world. While not always straightforward, the lyrics contribute to the album's overall atmosphere and complement the experimental nature of the music. Music: The music on "Daydream Nation" is characterized by Sonic Youth's unconventional approach to guitar playing. The band often employs alternate tunings, feedback, and dissonance to create a wall of sound that is both chaotic and controlled. The interplay between Thurston Moore and Lee Ranaldo's guitars is a defining feature, with intricate layers and textures that push the boundaries of traditional rock music. The rhythm section, consisting of Kim Gordon on bass and Steve Shelley on drums, provides a solid foundation for the sonic experimentation. Production: The production on "Daydream Nation" is raw and unpolished, capturing the energy and spontaneity of Sonic Youth's live performances. The album was recorded with producer Nick Sansano, who managed to preserve the band's chaotic sound while enhancing the clarity of individual instruments. The mix allows the dissonant elements to coexist with more melodic passages, creating a balance that contributes to the album's lasting appeal. Themes: "Daydream Nation" explores themes of youth, disillusionment, and the disintegration of societal norms. The title itself suggests a state of mind where reality and fantasy coalesce. The songs often convey a sense of urgency and unrest, mirroring the social and political climate of the late 1980s. Sonic Youth's exploration of unconventional guitar techniques and avant-garde influences aligns with the album's themes, creating a sound that reflects the chaos and complexity of contemporary life. Influence: "Daydream Nation" has had a profound influence on subsequent generations of musicians, shaping the alternative and indie rock scenes. Sonic Youth's experimental approach to guitar playing and their willingness to challenge conventional song structures have inspired countless bands and artists. The album's impact extends beyond its initial release, with its legacy evident in the work of many prominent musicians in the alternative and experimental music genres. Pros: Innovative Sound: Sonic Youth's unconventional use of guitars and experimental soundscapes set "Daydream Nation" apart from conventional rock albums. Influential: The album's impact on alternative and indie rock cannot be overstated, influencing a wide range of artists across genres. Lyrically Evocative: While abstract, the lyrics contribute to the album's atmosphere, exploring themes that resonate with the uncertainties of youth and society. Cons: Acquired Taste: The dissonant and experimental nature of Sonic Youth's sound may be challenging for listeners accustomed to more conventional rock music. Lyrically Dense: The abstract and poetic nature of the lyrics may be a drawback for those who prefer more straightforward and narrative songwriting. Production Quality: While the raw production suits the band's aesthetic, some listeners may find it less polished compared to more mainstream releases of the time. In summary, "Daydream Nation" is a groundbreaking album that pushed the boundaries of alternative rock. Its innovative sound, coupled with evocative lyrics and raw production, has solidified its place as a classic in the alternative music canon. While it may not be universally accessible, its influence on subsequent generations of musicians is undeniable.

yes!

Teenage Riot alone almost earns 5 stars for me. Love the noise.

Instant anemoia - nostalgic for a time I never lived through. Faves: Silver Rocket & ‘Cross the Breeze.

Loved it. Brought back some memories from my youth

So many unique and complex sounds on this. There’s a weird dissonance in the songs that make everything sound so wrong, yet it sounds so right. Legit every track is a roller coaster.

One of favourite albums ever. I've listened to Teen Age Riot what feels like everyday since I was sixteen and it's still thrilling. It's is one of those cosmic tracks that gives the impression it's always existed in its absolute and perfect form. Perhaps the album isn't actually perfect but it's just such a satisfying, deranged, nostalgia trip that it's fastened itself someplace deep in my skull. Candle, Silver Rocket, 'Cross the Breeze, Eric's Trip, I mean, come on! Kissability! Maaan.

Love this. Have for a long time.

Great early Sonic Youth.

10/11/23. Wow, first time listening and crazy how well this holds up. The sound from this album is a blueprint for most punk and indie bands of today. I now understand why Sonic Youth is so influential.

Noise landscape! In a great way.

5 stars

Still astounding

absolutely crazy good, feels like a ride on the highway during the apocalypse, crazy chops by the musicians, and the best guitar riffs on top of each other

Excellent vibe, a place in time

Classic album.

I'm sure I'm not alone in saying that if this album was just Teenage Riot I'd give it 5 stars. This album changed my life, at least as a music fan. It still sounds like it comes from some alternate reality or one of those Star Trek planets that almost like Earth but just a little different, maybe one where J. Mascis is president ;)

I have always loved this album!

This album to me from track one seems to be about atmosphere. Teen Age Riot has a rebellious and free atmosphere that carries the song for 7 minutes which is hard for punk. One of the best opening tracks to an album ever. Silver Rocket continues this major guitar tone and the freedom that Teen Age Riot started. This is my first time listening to any Sonic Youth and my mind is being blown by the guitar sounds. The tone of these guitars are excellent. The Sprawl has these abrasive lyrics and they’re sort of sarcastic in tone. I love the glorious noise, the guitar harmonies are excellent again. This is hard to do, this takes freaking skill, why isn’t this album among the greats in Rolling Stone. The Production is crystal clear too. Oh wait people do think this is great, I was wrong. My mind is being blown with guitar music, like hearing music for the first time and it’s glorious. It’s fun, it’s spontaneous. Track 3 and this is a perfect album already. I’ll not write anything more until I listen to the rest and then come back and see if it’s still perfect. Yeah this perfect, I don’t doubt this band.

Well I must say this completely passed me by at the time and ever since then I've had a distorted opinion on them. Until now. I won't say I think it's the most original music thinking on Velvet Underground and a number of 70s New York underground bands and onto the New Wave in the UK at the beginning of the 80s. But I think the up and coming bands will mainly listen to what's there at that time and in 1988 this influenced a chunk of bands that I like now. I love the distorted guitars, meandering tunes and muffled lyrics. Better late than never.

I might be that auto 5 star for SY guy

Aunque en mi lista personal le di un 5, le voy a dar un 4. No venga, un 5.

Such a good album.

Sonic Youth had been more noisy in the past and they would also be more noisy in the future, but they've never been so monumental. A true masterpiece of noise rock.

One of the most mindblowing album of the late 80s for sure. Strong and energetic songs infused with noise, raw passion and anger. A personal favorite.

More wonderful noise from Sonic Youth. Plenty of feedback etc. This is how guitars should be played.

A bit too long.

Magnum opus

A strange trip and one that doesn’t last long enough for me. I loved this. They don’t sound like their contemporaries in the slightest and that’s the most intrigue and interesting thing about them.

The best indie record in my opinion. Only hits!

Great, messy, iconic.

Great stuff

One of the most sonically inspiring albums ever made—as an instrumentalist/artist, this simultaneously motivates the hell out of me and frustrates me that I’ll likely never make anything remotely close to as good as this! (Favorite Tracks: Teen Age Riot, Silver Rocket, ‘Cross the Breeze, Hey Joni, Providence, A) The Wonder, B) Hyperstation)

While it did beat some sonic hallmarks of it's time, this is basically perfect. An amazing piece of indie rock.

From their no wave roots, Sonic Youth would effortless evolve into a noisy alt rock group that had all of the style of New York's artsy scene without any of the pretentiousness. EVOL and Sister were sibling albums that showed band's progression, both excellent in their own ways. If we're to make conclusions about Daydream Nation based on this assessment, I'd say it's peak of this evolution. A perfectly stylized, no-frills alt rock masterpiece that knows it's at the top of it's game. Every song hits it's stride. Every song has it's place. Even the interlude Providence feels momentous. The first half's songs have more weight to them than the second half's, but this is made up by the grand 14-minute finale Trilogy. This an album that is consistently make it's case for how impressive it is. Given Sonic Youth's album run from 1985 to 1988, it's clear to see why they're so revered.

If they ever put me on trial for all my crimes and shove me in a cement mixer, this is what I want playing in the background as I leave all you mortals behind. I want to go back in time to the 1600s and play "Silver Rocket" to the king of England so his face melts like Raiders of the Lost Ark. Amazing album. Could be considered The Velvet Underground of the 80s influence-vise. Definitely a 5/5.

Perfection

Classic.

"Daydream Nation" really solidifies Sonic Youth's role in shifting the direction of rock music. As a little kid in the 80s, the indie and alternative rock of that decade was mostly missed. But without Sonic Youth and their contemporaries, the music I loved in the 90s never would have happened. They saved us from hair metal and yacht rock. Thank you Thurston and Kim.

Hell yeah

- Heard this album before - Sonic Youth's best and I like every album I've heard by them - Teen Age Riot is one of the greatest album openers of all time and one of the best songs of the 80s - Unbelievably ahead of it's time, wouldn't have half the alt rock and grunge records from the 90s without this album - Fav songs: Teen Age Riot, 'Cross the Breeze, Total Trash

Noisy and hypnotic, alternative rock at its most essential.

Brilliant album, less experimental than early work, many catchy songs like Teen Age Riot and Kissability to the long guitar tracks. Too bad these guys (and Kim Gordon) broke up. Will never forget how they ended a concert by making pure feedback and noise with their guitars, doing all sort of things guitars are not made for.

Daydream Nation is generally seen as SY's best album. For me: 1. Sister. 2. Dirty 3. Daydream Nation 4. Evol 5. not sure: too much choice. Differences are small though. In any case, great album, 10/10.

Perfect art rock, art punk pretty much never got any better.

Absolutely class. They are just absolutely class. One of the few bands I liked as a teenager that I still like today, and easily one of the most influential alternative bands of the 80s/90s. Noisy, punky, experimental, complicated, straight forward. Just mint. Probably prefer Dirty, just, but I hope I’m never forced to pick between the two. I met Thurston Moore once in a tiny pub in Byker. First time I’ve ever been starstruck. Sonic Youth also led to one of my more embarrassing life moments which ended up with me stark naked in a hostel lift with a very angry Spaniard. Despite that, they are still one of my favourite ever bands.

Some really classic stuff on here, probably their best album

Brilliant at times but also a little irritating at times, pretentious.

An absolute treasure, a gem, the GOAT. King of noise albums. Ruins the rest of Sonic Youths discography for me because the other albums can’t come close to this. Perhaps a little too long would be the only criticism

Despite this perhaps being the most well-rounded Sonic Youth album, it is not what I would consider the best entry point into the band and its catalog. As someone who did start with this album, the first go-around was something I knew I enjoyed, but was difficult to process due to its unconventional instrumentals, offbeat lyrics, and dry vocal deliveries. I had known of the band because of Kool Thing, but I didn't expect something so raw and drastic, yet collected and catchy, especially for 1988, and it made it hard to realize the album's overall quality at the time. Now, however, I see it as an album with an immense amount of power, not just within its own chords and melodies, but also as one with an iron grip on the shape of rock music to come. Sure, not everyone today knows Sonic Youth, but they know the sound they helped create, and the destructive yet intricate nature helped spawn dozens, perhaps hundreds of bands that would now be considered rock staples. Obviously, within pretty wide music circles the band is blatantly known, but it's that slight injustice of ignorance in the population that is more of a shame than anything. They're missing out on vicious yet catchy guitar riffs to get you jamming instantly. They're missing out on lackadaisical yet devastating vocal deliveries to be unlike anyone else in the industry. They're just, in general, missing out on the most wonderful kick to the head that a person can encounter. It's rebellious, being the exact opposite of pop's late 80s sheen and precision, yet still has better hooks than most songs from the time. It is the perfect balance of most things music, and while genres like noise rock and mainstream grunge were certainly not born from Sonic Youth, those genres would not be commonplace were it not for Sonic Youth's help, and I think that alone deserves this album recognition, if it wasn't for the amazing overall sound, pacing, playing, lyrics, etc., etc. already. For a cherry on top of it all, note that Kim Gordon is yet another S-tier female bass player, pretty much solidifying my opinion that women are just the best bassists. I'm glad I gave this album another go, or I may have too thought of this album as nothing more than good. I'd say go listen to one of the albums right before this and one of the ones from right after, then return and experience rock bliss.

love love love

Honestly, I didn't know what to expect. Of course I've heard of Sonic Youth before, I've listened to couple of their songs and just like that decided it's not for me, case closed. And this is one of those rare instances, where I'm grateful to this list, because otherwise I wouldn't give them another chance. Daydream Nation is an amazing album. It has some bad post-punk influences, but I think in general they have a unique sound, which I really like. Variety in vocals across the band is pretty nice, but the best feature of the album are the elongated and stretched passages, melodies and riffs, creating this perfect atmosphere. Songs like "Trilogy", "Cross the Breeze" or "The Sprawl" have some amazing motifs, almost magical. Also, the nonchalant way of playing (as It seems, at least) is really catchy and feels fresh even 35 years later. It sounds like a recent record with a small homage to 80s rock. Great stuff, going straight to my daily listening list.

Every song has its own unique feel to it. For such a long album, it manages to stay fresh and interesting the whole way through.

Absolute masterpiece. First time I've heard in full, this sounds like all of my favorites from before and after distilled into a single album. Killer riffs, great lyrics, plenty of changeups to keep you guessing. Could not like this album more.

This is outstanding - it's got everything I want from a classic album. Light and shade, great noisy guitars, songs that go on the right length of time... Cracking.

In recent years Iv really come to really appreciate and love Sonic Youth. This is their double album masterpiece. Takes a while to appreciate but once you do it will become an all time favourite.

I can't recall if I was aware of the band before this moment but forever etched in my brain is the first time I heard Teenage Riot. It was New Years morning 1989, I was a few months off turning 16. I had taped a few hours of film clips from the show Rage and set about watching them or fast forwarding through them. I can't remember if it was the sounds or the vision that hit me first but I made a pact to discover and listen to all the bands in the clip. I did eventually in that pre-internet age and the stars of that clip became my bible, my university and my North Star. The rest of the album stands the test of time. Pop perfection through an angle grinder

Blew my mind!

Post punk shoegaze guitar is one of my favorite styles of guitar. This album & band are right up my alley. I only wish I had listened to this album when it was first released. 4.5

i am really just doing my work and vibing listening to this

Awesome. I was in tune the entire album. Definitely going to be in my playlist from now on. I can see why it was so critically acclaimed. I'd feel like trash giving less than 5 stars

5.0 - A blockbuster, a masterpiece. The guitars create other-wordly soundscapes, like impossibly dark, craggy mountain ranges on an inhospitable planet. I especially love the extended jams on "The Sprawl", "Total Trash" and "B) Hyperstation."

Sonic Youth's magnum opus, still one of the best records ever, though perhaps I have a strong bias in favor of my "musical discovery" years. Don't just listen to me though, listen to all of the bands and artists that cite this work as a major influence. Starts off with two amazing singles (or what passes for a single for Sonic Youth) but my favorite is probably the Trilogy that ends the second side.

Sounds like Sonic Youth but more pop. Another foundation of alternative rock. How many albums would not exist if these songs weren't recorded? A lot, probably.

Just realised where most of my favourite bands of the past 30 years were getting their inspiration from. Amazing album.

What an album!

I have always felt that Sonic Youth made great albums, but that frequently their work is brilliant, but flawed. Daydream Nation though... this is the album where they got everything right. You have all the really beautiful wandering experimentation in feedback and noise the band is known for, but it's a bit more restrained and structured. I don't know how they manage to be so catchy and dissonant at the same time, but they do it. Occasionally, there are even moments of true loveliness. It may still be a difficult listen for some, but for me it's exhilarating to hear. Fave Songs (All songs from most to least favorite): Teen Age Riot, Silver Rocket, 'Cross the Breeze, The Sprawl, Total Trash, Candle, Kissability, Hyperstation, The Wonder, Rain King, Eliminator Jr., Eric's Trip, Hey Joni, Providence

Welp, now I'm in love with Kim Gordon, so yeah 5 stars. Pure rock perfection.

loved it, listen to BAGEL Radio he loves a lot of songs from here😅🤭

Not *exactly* my favorite album by Sonic Youth, even though it's part of of my top-five records under their name. My only real, admittedly minor gripe is its overall sound, somewhat flat and one-dimensional compared to a lot of other Sonic Youth LPs--one can see that producer Nick Sansano was more an expert for hip hop than for guitar-based bands at the time... That being said, this double LP is still a landmark album for US indie music, and its scope was unprecedented when it came out. The first two tracks--"Teenage Riot" and "Silver Rocket"--are absolute gems, and almost everyone other song on it is pitch-perfect, justifying the length of this historical masterpiece. So yes, light a candle and celebrate the riotous impact of this one, indie fans. American music has rarely sounded as essential as this particular album. Number of albums left to review or just listen to: 819 Number of albums from the list I find relevant enough to be mandatory: 98 (including this one) Albums from the list I *might* include in mine later on: 46 Albums from the list I will certainly *not* include in mine (many others are more important): 39

CD

One of the greatest albums of my generation

Classic album that still sounds fresh today. You can hear their influence on so much of my favorite music.

An album requiring the listener to meditate on it, Daydream Nation does have the courtesy to indicate that it takes time to appreciate it fully. Mind, does such effort compensate generously. Sonic Youth became the Brian Eno of US alternative rock, in that they occupied a role of in-house philosophers, figures whose experiments and theorising plotted much of the landscape for many who would follow. Rock had investigated dissonant, disjointed guitars before (to exhaustion and nausea with Lou Reed's Metal Machine Music), but it was Sonic Youth who summarised it into a template for your standard 90s alt-rock weasels. Sonic Youth were also one of the biggest proponents of a genreless approach to music that embraced the high, low and middlebrow, rejecting those labels as unconducive to a truly explorative love of music. Sonic Youth had no qualms mixing John Cage, Albert Ayler, Led Zeppelin, the Carpenters, Suicide, Minor Threat, Madonna and KRS-One. Now, like Eno, this seems more driven by intellectual rather than emotional concerns. However, like Eno, they had good heads, so criticising them for that seems slightly churlish, even though someone could legitimately say their intellectualism is why Sonic Youth gives off too much of a chill for them. Another consequence of this is that someone who claims Sonic Youth to be their favourite band is hopelessly pretentious. Still, Sonic Youth have been warranted critical faves since they developed their approach in the early 80s. With Daydream Nation, their most celebrated album, Sonic Youth managed to place simultaneously one foot in the vanguard and the other in the relative mainstream. So gnarled guitars and R.E.M. melodies, basically. Now, Daydream Nation partially suffers from the diluting effects of every Sonny-Jim subsequently pilfering their innovations (which, in fairness, Sonic Youth would acknowledge resulted partially from their own purloinments). This perversely is in scale with their increased ambition for this album; when you break through, you want to hear everywhere the noise you pioneered, especially when others copy you. A double album made for a bit more dosh than their previous records, Daydream Nation is quite the troughful to nosh through in one visit. So yes, once again it's our old pal "rewards repeated listenings". The initial hearing may prove samey, but later the nuances will chime through. That aspect underscores the delightful paradox of this album: whilst ostensibly an uncompromising, punk-infused hard rocker, the real delights are in the subtleties, the details. Now, as it's a double, the disinclined listener won't be arsed to devote the time to comprehend it, and even the well-disposed may feel their joints start to itch at the length. But if you want it to persuade you, you'll find its disparately fluttering eyelashes will make you buy it a drink or five.

I owned Experimental Jet Set and Dirty from back in the day, and I am glad to see that their sound hadn't changed. I enjoyed this album, as they are all journey's through sound. Loved it!

My first introduction to Sonic Youth was the Kool Thing video on 120 min, just loved the song and like any 18 year old boy I fell in love with Kim Gordon too. Not long after I checked out Daydream Nation and yeah just a great album. Probably the only one but I wish Teenage Riot was 20 mins long, I can listen that song forever.

It's noisy, driving rock, but I can listen to over and over again. This is just a great album and probably Sonic Youth's best. Although everytime I listen to Sonic Youth I can hear Ellen Page telling Jason Bateman that "Sonic Youth is just noise!"

It takes a Teenaged Riot to get me out of bed. The most accessible Sonic Youth album.

I remember I didn't care for this album until I listened to it a second time. A revolution in alternative rock and just music in general, bringing the "no-wave" sensibilities and anti-authority attitudes out of the underground, and creating a masterpiece of distortion. Although he is a musical god to many, Thurston Moore, Kim Gordon, Lee Ranaldo, and Steve Shelley were the pantheon to people like Kurt Cobain as they stood for music which was powerful yet uncompromising. In all honesty, the record speaks in gibberish ninety percent of the time but I know it stands against consumerist sexist culture and that's enough. Thurston lays it all out in the first track: the world would be awesome if J. Mascis of Dinosaur Jr. was the president. If that sounds simple to you, fuck you.

Dig it. Never really checked them out for whatever reason but the guitars are just killer

Seminal album from one of the most intriguing bands in the last 40 years. I remember fondly discovering this work during my teenager years, listening to Teenage Riot and Silver Rocket nonstop, talking to my friends about it. No wonder why it is here!

Even the first song-Teenage Riot- deserves 10 stars.

Really great. Their fuzzed guitars create some immersive soundscapes. I felt hypnotized at times, which is something I quite like out of music. Sort of a punky mix between Joy Division and the Velvet Underground, perhaps? This is the kind of album one could have a nice dissociative episode to.

Teen Age Riot is one of the best opening tracks of all time, it situates the listener perfectly for what's to come on an album of hefty tracks. I love the flow and progression throughout, it all melds together so brilliantly. Favourite SY album to date. To agree with another listener, Thurston Moore is just such a dickhead. I have to attribute most of the band's success to Kim to be at peace with my listening experience; she's a goddess and a saint for putting up with Moore's shit as long as she did. Amazing album, so influential and impactful on a lot of bands I love. I adore this one.

An album that makes me wonder if 'alternative' music still exists. How did a band like Sonic Youth become so massive and influential and could it ever happen these days for a band that sounds like this?

Já conhecia e adoro

everything, even the catchiest hooks, are drowned and enveloped in a layer of noisy fuzz, thumping toms and crashing cymbals. It creates a really cool, edgy sound that you'll hear ripple throughout alt rock during the 90s. Sonic Youth hit the right balance of playful and dark. Some of these riffs sound almost like metal riffs, and then some boarder on pop punk and indie. The vocal melodies toe this line as well with grunt punk shouts and more welcoming bright vocal melodies. Whether it's angry or upbeat, there's always a relentless energy that is at the core of every track. This album is long as hell, but never ever stops moving; it's constantly propelling forward with noise and drums and riffs and raw, kinetic punk soul - and that can probably be attributed to the post-punk present here. It's relentless angsty, but approaches it in a unique and artistic way.