Reviews (page 3 of 14)
So many great songs.
# Album Name: Stone Roses # Artist: Stone Roses # Rating: 5/5 # Comments: I WANNA BE A DOGGGGGGGGGGG An absolute beast of a debut album. Up there with the best. Era defining album filled with bangers. # Top Tunes: Wanna be a dored / Bangs the drums / Waterfall / BBBM / Lizzy my dea / SSS / MoS / Shoot / This is the one / IATR / Fools gold # Would I listen to it again? Yes
Super godt album. Også madchester/baggy genren. Det var dem som var med til at inspirerer hele britpopbølgen i starten af 90'erne. Folk var vilde med det fordi det var jangly rock med groovy dansebar basslines og teksterne var fulde af selvtillid. Så det var noget af det første hvor man virkelig kom efter amerikanerne i industrien. udover dette har det selvfølgelig sin psykedeliske lyd inspireret af the Byrds og bealtes osv. Generelt bare et mega godt album synes jeg, det har sgu en god lyd og jeg ligger helt sikkert mellem om det er en 4-5. så jeg tror bare jeg giver den 5 for så ved jeg at jeg vender tilbage til det.
Masterpiece 5/5 Too many good songs to mention!
Wow! Stadigt förankrad i brittisk pop historia än Beatles, med små blinkningar och referenser. Samtidigt kastar den ut långa trådar in i framtidens popmusik - står fadder till hela britpop vågen. Kan bara bli en femma!
Ah so good! Love love love this record. No skips for me.
Lo tengo en vinilo dos veces. No me gustó durante años y en un momento de mi vida todo cobró sentido. Me parece un monumento sonoro. La primera cosa que compré para mi hija fue una camiseta con la portada de "I wanna be adored".
increíble, magnífico. una banda que no conocía y el sonido me encantó.
1989 was the year when this album came out, reminded me of a holiday in Guernsey - going to a rave in an old derelict bunker and hearing Fools Gold, then hearing it later in the week at a night club in the town of St Peter Port on the island- literally dancing my socks off to it . From then on, Fools Gold became my summer tune & earworm, but more importantly it introduced me to the Stone Roses & a whole new world of music. I listen now with such nostalgia, along with admiration for the band & Peter Hook. There is so much influence taken from previous British music on the album, from the Beatles, the Who & Punk Rock, fused all together with their own personal input and style to forge forward to make a template (in my humble opinion) to contribute significantly to bring the best decade for British music since I've been on the planet.
I want to be a door, A door between the past and the future Where the future sounds like the past and the past sounds like the future That's what the Stone Roses have done here. Something that sounds so dated, yet so progressive and modern. It's the ultimate paradox, even to this date.
forever a favorite! Made of Stone a top 10 song.
No need to listen as a well known album
18/08/25 - morning 5/5 I'll start it off with I wanna be adored is one of my all time top favourite songs ever. It is one of the strongest starts to an album I have heard. This whole record is an absolute classic. Easy 5 stars
As with quite a few albums I have had to remove the art from the artist. It is a well known fact that frontman Ian Brown is, and has always been, a complete dickhead. His anti-vaccination views are ill informed and dangerous. With that all said he is a charismatic front man, and despite not being able to sing, he can carry off the likes of, 'i am the resurrection' with great aplomb. I really like this album and it brings back find memories of late 80s liverpool and in particular, 'fools gold' is a masterpiece. Brilliant debut album. The best debut album of all time? Its up there with the best
10/10 lol
An era defining classic. Pure and simple.
For me this is iconic.
Seminal! A timeless blend of shimmering guitars, hypnotic rhythms, and swaggering vocals. After all these years, its infectious melodies and psychedelic groove still feels fresh, cementing it as one of the most influential British albums ever made.
Incredibly consistently amazing. A debut album so good they Could have made nothing more and still go down as one of the greats of their time.
The stars were lined exactly right when the Stone Roses created this album. It references what has come before while also precisely capturing a corner of the Britpop scene they led. The fact they never managed to do this again just makes the album more special. Every song hits in its own way, and to me the album has always felt like it's casting a spell.
Hell yeah, this is exactly what I was hoping to get out of this project. I’ve never heard of this band, and this is a great album. I love the random funk track and the threat to the queen using Scarborough fair.
🗯 Not Britpop — but the Big Bang that made it possible. One of the great debut albums! The Stone Roses’ debut is a perfect album. The songwriting’s off the chain, the guitars are delightfully jangly, the musicality is gorgeous. It precursed Britpop entirely — Oasis, Blur, Pulp all owe them a debt, and they’ve been honest about it. But this is its own beast: psychedelic swagger, Madchester groove, and a singer who could make arrogance sound like gospel. Songs! Songs! Songs!: ‘I Wanna Be Adored’ (slow-burn swagger), ‘She Bangs the Drums’ (pure dopamine), ‘Waterfall’ (that riff!), ‘Made of Stone’ (swagger + shimmer), ‘I Am the Resurrection’ (god-tier closer — one of my all-time favourite songs, full stop). Verdict: Essential For fans of: The La’s, Happy Mondays, Primal Scream, and feeling like you’ve just discovered the centre of the universe in a sweaty club.
Holy what an album! Great find
Oh, man. I missed out on this the first go around, I think I was a shade to young for these guys so it all passed me by, other than Waterfall. A real shame - this is amazing! Dreamlike summer vocals, and a soundtrack to the movie of your day.
great album, irgendwie ein mix aus 80s und rock und beatles, geil
Wow! I was surprised by the overall sound of this album
This is a solid album that feels well thought out. Songs seamlessly blend together to form a cohesive album making it one of those albums you can't just listen to a couple songs from without listening to the entire album. I will definitely revisit this again soon!
Great stuff. I get why people bang on about these guys being some of the greats.
Awesome! Will definitely be listening to this one a lot!!!
Easiest five stars ever. This record was practically my entire personality sophomore year of high school. A truly incredible debut.
(re-listen) i absolutely love this album, i wanna be adored has to be one of the best intros to an album ever, the build up and everything is so perfect. truly deserves its place on this list. my honourable mentions are: i wanna be adored, bye bye bad man, shoot you down , and i am the ressurection. i love the sort of transition with waterfalls and don’t stop that was also a highlight of this listen
En ymmärrä miten en oo aikasemmin tienny koko bändistä ja tykkäsin kyl kovasti!! Tks biisi oli takaperin äänitetty nii seki oli tosi mielenkiintonen. Menee stone tosss ehdottomasti uuteen kuunteluun.
truly great album from top to bottom
What an incredible three-song start!
Some is too simple (sugar spun sister) but the highs (I wanna be adored, I am the resurrection, this is the one) make this the classic it is
5/5
This album had a magnetic pull. I Wanna Be Adored and Made of Stone stood out immediately. One oozing with ego, the other quietly unraveling. I loved the way this album blended rock with a psychedelic haze without ever losing its groove. There’s something hypnotic about the sound. It felt both of its time and weirdly timeless. I’d come back to this when I want to feel energized and a little detached from reality.
Been a favourite for years. 5🌟
jepeno
She Bangs the Drum is an absolute scorcher. Rest of the album is full of bangers...a classic.
There are some artists that you first hear at the wrong time in your life. Thank god for this generator re-exposing me to The Stone Roses. Many years ago, I heard things about them and was interested based on their connection to the Madchester scene, already having been a fan of Joy Division and New Order. I kind of liked "Fools Gold" but just didn't click with anything else I heard. Well today I can firmly say that I am definitely a fan. This album is simply incredible, at the crossroads of indie rock and dance music, and infectuous from the very first track through to the seemingly never-ending (in the best way possible!) "I am the Resurrection". I really can't get enough of this album. It is a rare case where I consciously kept listening to the bonus track, the song that I already knew and have renewed appreciation for. This is an album that I put on repeat immediately after finishing the first run through.
I didn’t know this album before, what a treat. Between a 4 and 5 for me, but because I have joy in my heart today I’ll go with a 5.
Why did they make a track which is waterfall backwards, no, actually, that's fine. Just use it as an experimental b side. I reckon if you take that off this album is close to flawless. So many hits. The drums and bass are incredible. The guitar lines are beautiful. Ian brown balances the right amount of pomp and confidence against what the song needs. Great stuff.
Excellent.
6/5. I fucking love this album
Classic.
Best debut album of all time and should be known more
Big up The Stone Roses!
I already liked Made of Stone and This is The One Don't stop - 1:48 Forgot how good the singles are I Am the Resurrection is also very good, maybe lasts a little too long but its worth sticking with when in the mood This album has that entirely washed out but Powerful characteristic that I really really like in all kinds of music Not super into Fools Gold
Upbeat and dreamy, triumphant and bittersweet, anthemic and intimate - this album is pure joy. Tied for the best Manchester album (with Queen is Dead, Unknown Pleasures, and Definitley Maybe). John Squire's guitar playing is sublime, the grooves are undeniable, Ian Brown's singing is blissfully naive and direct, a perfomance that demands you belt out the hooks at the top of your lungs along with him. I Am the Resurrection is the best break up song of all time - so good it almost makes you want to get dumped just to really feel it. Noone could ever make an album that captures this energy again, even them.
I know I’m giving everything 5 stars but god damn I love this album
Genuinely mad how many of the tunes on this would be absolutely sensational singles from any other album.
Mag ich sehr!! Hab die meisten Lieder direkt runtergeladen, ist ein gutes Album zum nebenbei hören. Hab bei einem Lied angefangen nachzuschauen, was die Bedeutung dahinter ist und gelesen, dass es Bezug nimmt auf die 68er Bewegung in Paris - fand ich spannend Lieblingslieder: I Wanna Be Adored She Bangs the Drums Bye Bye Bad Man
Era defining!
legitimately such a good album. An incredibly fun mix of electronica with synthwave and 70s style guitar makes for a fantastic 90s british pop.
Started it one day and didnt vibe. Started on second song like a week later and it was super chill the whole time. Longer than it should be maybe tho. A nice late 80s evolution of beatles. More long winded, less vocal heavy but more instrumental. A nice new wave/early indie type sound i enjoy
Ah the Madchester (Manchester, UK) sound... it had to have a start... and this record is it... pop/rock music with a nod to the sunshine pop of the 60's... but what it really is, is a collection of good songs... and a couple grand slams in there... "I Wanna Be Adored", "She Bangs The Drums", "Made of Stone", "Waterfall", "Song For My Sugar Spun Sister" and "I Am The Resurrection" are all top songs... and if you get the expanded verson, you are TREATED to their best song.... "Fools Gold"... Five STARS.
One of the easiest five stars I’ve given. Absolutely tremendous from start to finish.
This is really, really good. Straight bangers start to finish. I don't know how I've never heard of The Stone Roses; this is right up my alley.
Top tier album!
Perfect album. No skips. Sexy too.
5 This is the easiest album I have had the pleasure of reviewing thus far. When this dropped, time stopped. The 60s, 70s, and 80s all met in this retro-forward Manchester music. This is the big bang of BritPop and how it even came to cross the ocean. We bought every format because we needed every morsel they were serving. A stone cold classic that destined them for greatness and myriad problems in following it.
10/10
One of the best debuts of all-time.
Alright, so here it is then — The Stone Roses album - and it’s a proper game-changer, this. From the first jangle of “I Wanna Be Adored” you know they’re not messing about — it’s like they’ve nicked a bit of Byrds, thrown in some swagger from the Pistols, then sloshed it through a Manc raincloud of attitude. Ian Brown’s not so much singing as pronouncing his own legend, and Squire’s guitar is shimmering like it’s just wandered out of a dream you had after necking too much cider behind the Arndale. You can’t help but think, “This lot know exactly what they’re doing,” and you’re a bit jealous you didn’t do it first. There’s summat in it that feels like the city had woken up again — now we had a proper soundtrack to walk past it with our chins up. “She Bangs The Drums” should be piped through Piccadilly Station, and if “I Am the Resurrection” didn’t make you want to kick down the doors of your local indie disco and claim the dancefloor in your Adidas Gazelles, you might already be dead. It’s not just an album, it’s a statement — Manchester’s back, and this time we’re wearing flares and a bucket hat.
I have seen this album cover about a million times, and I think I've even heard a few songs off it. However it's not been something I've shown much interest in. Maybe this is something I've been missing out on. It seems the general consensus around it is that it's great, so I'm looking forward to a listen. I Wanna Be Adored Deep and dreamy sound with some really beautiful background effects. Love the punchy drums. Awesome atmosphere, the dark and powerful bassline really adds to the slickness of the sound. Unique vocals. The drums continue to impress. Fantastic. 5/5 She Bangs the Drums Evocative lyrics. Love the way the guitar flows on top of the rhythm section, has a generally pretty sound to it. The chorus rises nicely making it distinct and memorable. Really like where the vocals sit in the mix. Fades out nicely. Great. 4.5/5 Waterfall Very lively and harmonic atmosphere. Love the deep, distant bass sound. Very fitting structure to the chorus. Great guitar riff, wonderful solo. Hypnotic instrumental section. Great. 4.5/5 Don't Stop The backwards tape effect is a really interesting choice. Gives the track a very psychedelic feeling, while still managing to sound coherent. I appreciate the slower tempo. Good. 4/5 Bye Bye Bad Man The isolated guitar is a great way to start the song. Love how it pans subtily. Has a decent rhythm to it. The lazier, not as intense vibe comes at a good time in the album. Kinda bored by the vocals. Good. 4/5 Elizabeth My Dear That's Scarborough Fair! Not very subtle in its messaging. Cool to hear somethibg so anti-monarchy. Good. 4/5 (Song for My) Sugar Spun Sister Loud guitar. Very pretty chord progression. Evocative chorus. I really like the subtle backing vocals. Great drums. Good. 4/5 Made of Stone Opens sorta bleakly. The dark bass and the omnious guitar makes for quite the gothic atmosphere. Catchy classic sounding chorus. Love the psychedelia of the instrumental break with the clashibg guitars, the awesome drumfills and the ever present bassline. Great. 4.5/5 Shoot You Down Quite a unique start compared to the rest of the album. Sounds really liquidy and deep. Love when the instrumental makes way for the vocals. There's an interesting melody to the chorus. Just an all round solid instrumental with an infectious v8be that's really easy to get lost in. Fantastic. 5/5 This Is The One I like the more vocal focused direction of the verses. Lovely drumming, really loud, powerful and intense. The largeness of the chorus is really interesting, this is the exact sound so many other UK bands tried emulating in the following decade. Works really well here. Great. 4.5/5 I Am the Resurrection Great bassline. Has sort of a sentimental feeling to it. Kinda boring verse structure. I like how the chorus builds up to its climax. Lovely guitar passages. Catchy and rhythmic instrumental section. Really like the drums here. An infectious groove with psychedelic undertones. Great. 4.5/5 Fools Gold Awesome percussion. The cool, smooth guitar riff adds a lot to the groove. In a strange way the moody vocals fit with the funky nature of the track. Good groove, good atmosphere with some interesting effects thrown in here and there. Love when the additional instrumentation comes in at the end. Good. 4/5 I was definitely missing out. This album is a treasure trove of unique and beautifully written rock tunes that don't seem to have aged a day. The chemistry at display is really something else. Very impressed by the drumming, and the bass playing on here. As well as the solid songwriting. Could definitely hear their influence on other bands that would emerge a few years later. Will need to revisit this, as I'm still astonished by its quality after the first listen. There's just so much to take in and appreciate here. 4.5/5 rounded up to a 5/5
Amazing and under appreciated today. Catchy lyrics, catchy riffs, groovy beats. I forget how guitar-driven the songs are. Stellar pop music.
Quelque chose dans la première track qui me met dans le mood de 3 d'Indochine. L'atmosphère planante et les gammes pentatoniques à la guit. Déjà dans le mille pour moi. Je connais rien de ce groupe là mais il y a un drapeau français et ça sonne new wave. Dont stop a une vibe revolution 9 et Lucy in the sky. Quelque chose de The Shins et Death Cab. Je pourrais réécouter ça 1000x dans une journée j'imagine ça vaut 5 étoiles.
Un classique du britpop. J’aime tellement l’intro avec I Wanna Be Adored et sa ligne the bass enivrante. Après c’est hit après hit!
Yer twisting ma lemon, man
A comfort album. So many great singles coming together with the other tracks holding their own like "Elizabeth my dear" using the traditional ballad Scarborough fair.
It's just a great album from start to finish.
What a signature sound. Ian Brown vocals over Johnny Marr style guitars. The bass and drums sound like veteran session musicians 20 years deep - not kids. A fully formed debut. They might have had a lot more content this good had they not signed an awful recording contract. A lot of bands have tried to sound like the Stone Roses since, and none of them have lived up to it. The album is already perfect and then I am the resurrection and Fools Gold kick in to finish. It sounds like a greatest hits. Unreal 5/5
Iconic.
I love this record as much as I did when I was 16, the bass and guitars especially. Probably helped get me into indie music.
10/10
Absolutely incredible. Massively replayable record with so much to offer. Great songwriting, melodies and playing to the point that it's hard to believe this is a debut.
con este disco empezaron los 90
espectacular
Track by track it’s just incredible
Very chill and one I’d see myself listening to again
Brilliant album, another from my youth. They always seemed kind of like dickheads, but they were really on form here. The only song I would consider dropping is Don't Stop, the rest are great! 9/10
Stone cold classic album. Distinctive and wonderful. Has really lasted the test of time. Easy five stars.
A Manchester classic for a reason.
Absolute gold
Britpop couldn't have started stronger than with this album. Made Of Stone and I Wanna Be Adored sound so fresh, they could have been made by the Arctic Monkeys in another timeline. Fantastic album that keeps on giving.
Geweldig album! Nog niet zo heel lang geleden echt leren kennen en sindsdien wel een liefhebber van dit album. Veel hidden gems hier. 4.8
Perfect Sunday album
One of the best albums ever made!
Somehow never listened to this album before and had a load of songs on that I never knew were by The Stone Roses. This is a banger.
A classic Britpop album, before Oasis and Blur!
This is the most British sounding album I've heard. You can hear where Britpop came from on this album, and since I'm a sucker for Britpop, this is getting a high rating. I like just about every song on this one, except "Don't Stop" which is just a little to out there for me. Otherwise, a lot of fun music to listen to. The guitar on "Fool's Gold" is fantastic, "Waterfall" is just a fun song, and the bluesy "Shoot You Down" is a great song to put in the middle. I'd never really listened to this one before, but it is another easy 5. A lot of British alt rock was inspired by this one, and for good reason.
…every member of Parliament trips on glue…
full of nostalgia
10/10 The Stone Roses is a band/album I had never heard of before, so I was pleasantly suprised with the ability that this band had to offer. Great love story telling, I especially loved how it developed into an ending I didn’t expect. Combine the story with some great rock elements and you have another 5/5 from me.
This is a perfect album. It will always be in my top 10. It is so special to me.
One of my favorite albums. No filler. Essential
That sound - just flows through the album. One great song after another. Such an influential album.
✋😶🤚 It's peak
I really enjoyed the Beatle-inspired (at least to my ear) songs.
80% bangers
I feel like the Stone Roses are a huge "what if". You wonder if this was just lightning in a bottle, or if they really could have been among the greats if the record company wasn't such douchenozzles. Psychedelic in the best way. This one really feels like a complete work, and I don't think you'd be able to take off a single note of it without making it worse. Great album.
God album
Wasn’t too familiar with Stone Roses. Heard a few songs on the radio, and I’m pretty sure they had a track on one of the Guitar Hero games back in the day. Man, what a great album. I did not see Fools Gold coming at the end. Totally will play this one again.
So many happy memories of this album. Still sounds amazing.
It's a melodic masterpiece from start to finish with ne'er a bad tune to be found. 'She Bangs the Drums', 'Waterfall' and co, are worthy of any 60s band in their prime. Has there ever been an album so damn joyful to listen to? There is none of the sneer of punk, nor smug ego of Britpop. Major-chord, melody and groove-driven elation. To me it will always be the sound of being young. And so the album ends up being a magnificent paradox. At the intersection of the 80s and the birth of Britpop, it really feels like the perfect encapsulation of a moment in time. And yet that moment in time for me wasn't 1989 but was when I discovered it proper, in 1997. It's the sound of youthful optimism, of discovery, of being on the edge of something. That’s why it endures: it doesn’t just belong to one era, but to any wanting to claim it as part of their own.
Always brilliant
Som att köra bil genom en tunnel en novembernatt utan trafik
Hard to fault. Criminal that they never produced anything close to as good as this again. Fool's Gold beat stuck in my head non-stop for the rest of the day.
500 Stars. I own 2 copies of this vinyl, plus all the singles, plus almost everything released by the band. VERY important album in my life. Made of Stone changed my life forever. 14 years old, my brother put it on a mix tape for me and from that moment on i was hooked. There is not one bad song on this album and i can still sing each song word for word. Waterfall and Made of Stone are the 2 standout tracks, but i could add bye bye badman, sugar spun sister, this is the one, shoot you down, drums and resurrection. Fools gold does not count because it is not on the album (but is on the spotify version)
Already really like it from the beginning. Their guitar and fade in and out are so good. I'm enjoying the hell out of this album. Every song was really good.
I joined this site to find some g[d music I have not heard before. This album finally made that come true.
This album was my everything for a long time. It was perfect in the 1990s, and it remains so now.
Идеальный бленд попа и рока, вне времени, офигенный альбом для вечерних прогулок
Absolute Classic
The Stone Roses - The Stone Roses 5 stars I'd never heard of this band before I got this album, but it is incredible. Not a skip on the whole album. I don't necessarily have the reference points to really describe this album, but it was catchy, psychedelic, and just a great listen I saw something that compared them to The Smiths, who I love, so I'm not surprised I liked this in hindsight
i wanna, i wanna, i gotta be a door
First time giving this a proper listen. Was expecting it to be good, but not this good. I can see how it influenced music and bands in the 90's.
Eschewing the metal and pop of the era, the Stone Roses launched one of the earliest Indie Rock albums. It helped to create Britpop and dictate much more of England's music scene before the Indie breakthrough. The combination of jangle pop with darker undertones resonated with everyone. It highlights desires people feel they shouldn't have, yet can't help but have. The music itself is enchanting and easy to connect to. Another perfect moment in time
One of the best albums to emerge from the madchester era.
This is so right up my alley it's ridiculous!! I LOVE THIS!
This album was very British psych-pop and it was a very easy listen.
Really liked this, I didn't know the stone roses were so good. There's a surprising out of variety in their songwriting for such a long album
Really cool sound to this album. I feel like I can sink into the universe of it. It is a very specific vibe and I’m glad I got to experience it when I was in the right place for it.
This was a great album! I had never heard of this band and was happily surprised !
There were some excellent songs here - some I knew already and some I didn't. Can happily recommend this one.
With a debut album as excellent as this, it’s actually sad that this band had such a short lifespan and produced only one more album.
truly great
jangle pop seems to be a big representative in this collection, and this is probably one of the best i've heard of the genre. very pretty pop rock tunes, i'd say. this to me is a great representation of what the genre stands for, post-punk and rock music that takes heavy inspiration from the "jangly" melodies of rock tracks from the 1960s. what if the beatles or the beach boys were groups from the 80s? this is a pretty good answer to that question. i love those harmonies on the vocals.
Already know it’s good
À phénoménal début with terrific songs.
Partially listened before Fav tracks: She Bangs the Drums, Waterfall, Made of Stone, I Am the Resurrection
1. I Wanna Be Adored - 10/10 2. She Bangs the Drums - 10/10 3. Waterfall - 8/10 4. Don’t Stop - 4/10 5. Bye Bye Bad Man - 8/10 6. Elizabeth My Dear - 7/10 7. (Song for My) Sugar Spun Sister - 8/10 8. Made of Stone - 10/10 9. Shoot You Down - 10/10 10. This Is the One - 9/10 11. I Am the Resurrection - 8.6/10 12. Fools Gold - 8/10 9/10
I played this on CD, bought it on vinyl, and still play it today. No skips.
Good this
Been waiting for this: "The Stone Roses is a Stone cold classic"
"have you seen, her have you heard? the way she plays, there are no words, to describe the way i feel" It's one of my all time favorites, probably top3-5. I don't have much to say about it, except that it's still amazing, after all this time. It's one of those pieces of art that makes me nostalgic for a place in time which I haven't even experienced.
What a fucking corker of an album
One of my all time favourite albums. I saw them live the week this came out!
Sublime. Psychedelic, anthemic, earnest depiction of Manchester and beyond
Functionally perfect
I really liked the guitar part throughout the whole album.
This is one of those hyper-evocative albums for me: It brings me right back to my college dorm, where I first heard it and listened to this album most often. To me, this album would be worth it for the reprise of the lovely “Waterfall” into “Don’t Stop” alone. It’s sonic magic, with its trippy tape loops and hypnotic rhythm. “Elizabeth My Dear” clearly cops its melody from Simon & Garfunkel. “Shoot You Down” is effortless cool and "Fool's Gold" feels like being on drugs at a rave. Too bad they fizzled out after a mediocre sophomore release, but at least they gifted us with this brilliance.
I enjoyed this album. Never heard of it before.
5*
Best of its era, one of the best of all time. I stream it constantly plus have vinyl and CD versions of this album.
I've listened to this a lot before and thought it would be a 4 star album. However, I think it deserves a 5. I never realised that Fool's Gold wasn't on the original album and, as great a song as it is, it does feel tacked on. Its inclusion also changes the dynamic of the end of I Am The Resurrection - with Fool's Gold following it, the long ending to the song feels overlong and self indulgent, spoiling an otherwise great tune. Without Fool's Gold following, the ending feels like a conclusion to the whole album and significantly more appropriate.
Pleasantly surprised. All tracks are good one this one
Hey I might just be feeling generous today. But I had a great time listening to this album. I gotta be honest I am kinda sick of the British rock but also they did a good job and for that I think it deserves a five. Of the many British rock/alt albums it’s one worth listening I think. There are several songs I definitely need to go back to cause I didn’t get them but I still had fun listening so.
I started this album incredibly jaded. The first song almost made me write it off as just a boring indie rock album. Then literally every other song played and I was blown away. What a fucking album! So many musical layers and tastes represented on here. You can hear the sound Oasis would capitalize on, Beatlesesque harmonies and guitar riffs, Scarborough Fair?!?!? “She Bangs the Drum” sounds like if Duran Duran made rock music. So original and unique. The template for so much of the rock sound of the 90s and beyond. Wow what a great album! Also I know “Fools Gold” isn’t on the original release but it’s on the Spotify edition and holy shit what a groovy tune!
Love this album. Their second album was not well received but now sounds pretty good. It's a shame they didn't stick around longer.
i really loved this album!! the genre that i’m making up for it is whimsi-rock
I really wanted to like this more than I did, I dig the psychedelia but it feels a little forced to me, some catchy pop riffs too. Top 3 I am the resurrection, waterfall, fools gold
9/10 It’s only in the last few years that I finally got the SR, having been sniffy about them for some reason. This is magnificent. I think the turning point was realising that this is fun, not dark. Uptempo anthems with such a hit of pop sensibility. Everything in harmony and everything really good. So many great tunes. Best: This Is The One
This is a favourite of mine but it was good to listen to it. It’s been a while.
"The Stone Roses" is the debut studio album by English rock band the Stone Roses. The Wiki-listed genres are Madchester, jangle pop, neo-psychedelia, indie rock and alternative rock. They were fixtures of the Madchester (indie dance, acid house, rock) and baggy (alternative dance) scenes. I put those definitions there for myself. The band is Ian Brown (vocals), John Squire (guitar, vocals), Mani (bass) and Reni (drums, vocals). Commercially, the album hit #19 in the UK and #86 in the US but grew over time. It did the same critically with its standing growing over time including it being one of the albums of all time and in the 80's and, of course, finishing #1 in the Neil Kell's best of 1989 list. A bass eventually comes in after a long time of random noises to begin "I Want to Be Adored." Next are guitar notes and the drumbeat. The band kicks in; a psychedelic and dreamy guitar. Brown's vocals pleading he wants to be adored as He is already with him. Hmmm. The song builds. Retro yet current. A great first song. The band continues that retro 60's sound in "She Bangs the Drum." More of a rock dance beat. I always liked Squire and Reni's backing vocals on this one. Guitarist John Squire shines in "Waterfall." A melodic guitar riff throughout and he gets the wah-wah going. Initially, a slow song but builds as Squire literally by himself creates a groove. It ends chaotically with a piano. "This Is the One" successfully uses the start soft and slow and build to a soaring end game plan. All instruments and the vocals play a part. A song that I think is about anticipation fitting the song motif. One of my faves on the album. Pounding drums lead off "I Am the Resurrection." Another great melody and groovy beat. An anti-Christianity theme? Maybe. A jam band ending of sorts. Speaking of groovy dance beats and jam band, the album closes (my version anyway) with the 10-minute long "Fool's Gold." Squire utilizes the wah-wah and phasing aspects of his guitar sound. Here's your hypnotic rave dance tune. The bass and drums laying it down. Hooks galore, groovy beats, a retro psychedelic guitar. What's not to like? This album has sounded great ever time I've listened to it. I knew the music and guitar had that 60's sound with groovy beats back in 1989. It still hasn't changed and it's still irresistible. Retro yet timeless. I know some people have a problem with lead singer Ian Brown but he's fine here for me. I honestly didn't hear much from him anyway past this album. I had a hard time limiting the songs I wanted to highlight since I like them all including the one where they play "Waterfall" backwards. At this time, it belongs in that classic category. Highly recommended.
My favourite and most listened to album of all time
Is it possible to give SIX stars??
The only man Ian Brown has never beaten in the dojo? Len Houmous! 4.6
This is the forty eighth album I’m rating. I’ve heard the name but I’ve never heard anything about the band or what music they make. Adding to my Playlist - I Wanna Be Adored, She Bangs the Drums, Waterfall, Don’t Stop, Bye Bye Badman, Elizabeth my Dear, (Song for my) Sugar Spun Sister, Made of Stone, Shoot You Down, This is the One, and I am the Resurrection. Not Adding to my Playlist - Nothing. All in all I liked 11/11 of the songs. I can feel how influential this was just by listening to it. I can’t believe I’ve never heard this before because it is just do so good.
Genial, histórico, legendario. Todo mundo lo sabe.
Took a minute to get going, but as soon as it finished, I went right back to the start and listened to it over again. Been a long time since I've done that. Instant classic for me.
Fucking awesome, loved the journey the longer songs took me on
Really liked this. Dude had a nice voice, instruments sounded really good. Loved the delivery of everything, loved the feel. Lyrics were interesting and solid, everything just sounded really good, especially for this time. Normally I hate anything Britpop related but I really liked this. Only downside was the fact that allegedly this inspired Liam Gallagher which is incredibly unfortunate as Oasis is one of the worst things to come from Britain and wildly overrated.
I've heard lots of mentions of Stone Roses over the years but never given them a listen. this was excellent. still shocked it released in '89. great guitars, enjoyed the bit of distortion, great variety in tempos. this is the kind of album you want to find on this list.
Easy 5, so many amazing tunes
Probably my favourite album ever. It is faultless. John Squire might be the most underrated guitarist of all time. 🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋
Lightning in a bottle, absolute classic. Wall to wall home runs. Era defining triumph. Don't stop isn't quite as good as the rest (but still good)
Wow, what a great album. I used to listen to I wanna be adored back in the day, only now I’m finding out this album has so many more gems.
What an album - just gorgeous
The Stone Roses- self titled 4.8/5⭐️ ༘˚⋆𐙚｡⋆𖦹.✧˚ i love old british pop music. TURN THAT SHIT UPPPP. reminiscent of blur, oasis …the beatles. the first song kinda reminded me of sour girl from STP with the dreamy instrumentals (hoping that’s a staple for the album because i really like it ^^). okay currently on track four. and i wish i knew how to better describe it but the instruments for this album is SO GOOOD. very melodic and soulful. i would say this album is very consistent with their hits. a lot of songs in here are really really good. tbh i thought i was gonna hate this album bc i do judge books by their covers and the cover for this album is UGH-LEE. but i am pleasantly surprised. this is probably my favourite aotd yet!! edit: THE GUITAR FOR THE LAST SONG OMGG. immediately shot up the placement of the last song for me. ——— stand out songs: i wanna be adored, she bangs the drums💕, waterfall, bye bye bad man, SFMSSS💕💕💕, made of stone, this is the one💕💕, i am the resurrection💕💕💕
Incredible album start to finish - no skips on here for me. I am the resurrection is an amazing album closer. Not sure what else to say, just a great album 4.75/5
Great album … Great songs … No fillers.
Прекрасный альбом, 9 из 10.
Lads, lads, lads 🍋🍻🍋🍻🍋🍻
Älskar den här skivan, svinbra rakt igenom.
perfecto
Still wonderful
I really loved it. Surprisingly so. Reminded me a lot of Animal Collective, so probably ahead of their times. Highlights for me: "Don't Stop," "Elizabeth My Dear" (such a Simon and Garfunkel sounding thing), "Made of Stone" surf rock-y, Pulp Fiction-y, "Shoot You Down" had an awesome vibe, and "I am the Resurrection."
I mean, doesn’t everyone want to be adored?
There are lots of examples of groundbreaking bands/albums whose impact and influence only grow after their disbandment/release. The Stone Roses were somewhere in the middle; their eponymous debut would eventually became popular later in the year it was released, 1989, but because they were a new band that had a tumultuous relationship with their label, that popularity was not immediate or longstanding. To my ears, it is immediately apparent how forward-thinking this record is, and why it is so-widely revered by musicians and critics alike. They merged the ancient psychedelia and aging punk eras with the burgeoning dance and alternative scenes, both of which were becoming mainstream during the late 80s/early 90s, especially in the UK. They executed that fusion so effortlessly, and despite the band feeling like the album did not adequately live up to their intentions its impact is undeniable to our contemporary ears. They established and pioneered a stylistic DNA that would be leveraged by so many consequential bands from the late 90s up to today. Even if their influence on those bands was not direct, there’s no doubt that The Stone Roses opened that door. I had never heard of the band or this record prior to this project. While the lyrics and thematic concepts might leave a little more to be desired, their innovative sound more than makes up for it. And this record is an absolute joy to listen to. Undeniable, well-executed pop radio hits sit alongside sprawling, nearly 10-minute tracks that merge extended dance floor-ready break beats and grooves with playfully funky, decorative guitar playing and vocals — and it’s this dichotomy that is essential to the greatness on display here. Rarely are such bipolar debuts considered classics, primarily because bands in their infancy often swerve all over the place in exciting, but ultimately unfocused directions as they figure out their identity and approach. The Stone Roses are doing just that, but they do it with the confidence and coolness of seasoned pros, ultimately presenting a sound that is fully realized. The cards were stacked against this band continuing their success beyond this debut record. Difficulties with their label from the outset — and the frustrated, angry dynamic that it injected into their chemistry as a band — mired their ascent to well-deserved greatness. They were never able to establish firm footing in the music industry to capitalize on their resounding critical success, and that stumbling, primarily caused by label mismanagement, quickly eroded their ability to continue creating amazing music. This is an absolute classic, and I can’t stop listening to ‘Fools Gold’!
Took me a long time to warm to this album. I still skip don’t stop, and prefer the edited version of fools gold, but overall it is one of the great British albums with iconic songs.
Il faut se souvenir de ce qu'était l'Angleterre en 1989. La Dame de Fer, Thatcher, était encore aux commandes, le pays était gris, et la musique rock commençait sérieusement à tourner en rond. D'un côté, on avait les derniers soubresauts du post-punk gothique, de l'autre, une pop synthétique sans âme. Et puis, il y avait cette déferlante venue des entrepôts et des champs : l'acid house, la rave culture. Des gamins sous ecsta qui dansaient toute la nuit sur des rythmes hypnotiques. Le rock et la dance se regardaient en chiens de faïence, deux mondes que tout semblait opposer. Et au milieu de ce no man's land, quatre mecs de Manchester ont débarqué. Et pas n'importe quels mecs. Des branleurs d'une arrogance cosmique. Le chanteur, Ian Brown, marchait avec le déhanché d'un singe, l'air de dire "je suis le roi du monde et vous n'êtes que de la merde". Le guitariste, John Squire, se prenait pour Jackson Pollock en balançant de la peinture sur ses toiles et ses guitares. Le bassiste, Mani, avait un groove à faire danser un mort et le batteur, Reni, avec son bob ridicule, était une pieuvre d'une agilité folle. Ils s'appelaient The Stone Roses et ils étaient venus pour tout défoncer. En 1989, j'avais 19 ans. J'étais en plein dedans. J'ai vu le disque débarquer avec cette pochette signée Squire, ce mélange d'art abstrait et de morgue prolo. Et j'ai a posé le vinyle sur la platine. Et là, la claque. Le disque s'ouvre sur un long crescendo de basse, une ligne à la fois menaçante et incroyablement sexy. Ça dure une minute, ça vous installe une ambiance de fin du monde, et puis la voix de Ian Brown, nonchalante, presque dédaigneuse, murmure : "I Wanna Be Adored". Putain de merde, quelle entrée en matière ! Fallait oser. N'importe quel autre groupe se serait planté en beauté avec une telle prétention. Eux, non, parce qu'au moment où la batterie de Reni explose et où la guitare de Squire déchire le silence, on comprend qu'ils ne demandent pas la permission. On allait les adorer. Ce premier album, c'est la pierre de Rosette de la pop anglaise des années 90. C'est le disque qui a tout changé car ils ont réussi l'impensable : réconcilier le rock des guitares et la culture des clubs. C'est une véritable machine à danser, mais une machine avec une âme et une intelligence folle. Le génie de John Leckie à la production est d'avoir su capturer cette dualité. Les guitares de Squire sont psychédéliques à souhait, des cascades de notes cristallines et réverbérées qui doivent tout aux Byrds de 1966. C'est la partie "indie rock", pour les gamins qui aimaient The Smiths. Mais en dessous, la section rythmique est une pure tuerie funk. Mani et Reni ne jouent pas du rock, ils jouent du groove. Leurs rythmes sont souples, complexes, hypnotiques. C'est la partie "rave", pour les mecs qui rentraient de l'Hacienda le cerveau à l'envers. Et au-dessus de tout ça, la voix de Brown, faussement détachée, qui chante des mélodies pop d'une pureté absolue. Des chansons comme "She Bangs the Drums", "Waterfall" ou "Made of Stone" sont des classiques instantanés, des hymnes à la jeunesse, à l'amour et à l'arrogance. Et puis... et puis il y a la face B. Qui se termine par le morceau ultime. Le manifeste. "I Am the Resurrection". Huit minutes et douze secondes de pure magie. Le morceau commence comme une chanson pop parfaite, avec un refrain à chanter à tue-tête dans les stades. Et au bout de trois minutes, alors qu'on pense que c'est fini, le groupe se lance dans un jam instrumental hallucinant. Une longue montée en puissance où la basse funky de Mani et la batterie virtuose de Reni créent un tapis volant pour la guitare de Squire, qui part dans des solos stratosphériques. C'est ça, la fameuse "scène Madchester" résumée en un seul morceau : l'énergie du rock, l'endurance de la dance, la tête dans les étoiles. Cet album n'est pas juste un classique. C'est un acte de foi, la preuve qu'avec suffisamment de talent et d'arrogance, on peut réinventer la musique. Il a ouvert la voie à tout ce qui a suivi, de Blur à Oasis en passant par toute la vague indie-dance. Alors oui, c'étaient des branleurs prétentieux. Mais c'étaient nos branleurs prétentieux et ils nous ont offert un disque cosmique, parfait du premier au dernier sillon. Un 5 sur 5. Évident. Indiscutable. Et si vous n'êtes pas d'accord, c'est que vous n'avez rien compris.
Great
Keeping it short as I'm playing catch up (you may have noticed from my arbitrary scores for some of the previous albums). This is perfect and was always going to get a high 5. If I'm being critical I'd say the only dud is Elizabeth My Dear but even that is quite sweet and a change of pace. The greatest British album of the 80s. So good that trying to follow it up broke them. A perfect album.
The greatest album ever recorded. This is the direction rock could’ve gone to save itself.
This album soundtracked much of college for me. Love the vibeyness of the whole thing. That modern take on like the British Invasion sound. Solid stuff.
Lubię, znam i doceniam. Piosenka Made of stone to jedna z moich fav piosenek ever
I love this album, not because it communicates tension, but b/c nothing feels like it's going to fall apart. This isn't adolescence's final stand, or last day of summer, but a continued expression: 'I wake, I still look, I feel loose.' ‘Still’ is the operative word. Even on 'Made of Stone,' which approaches Tom Verlaine's impressionism, the philosophy is a subdued trust in the process: it's all gonna be okay. And that works for many a night out, or in, or here, or there.
REALLY liked this. All the soaring sections, the riffs to songs that though I’d not heard before I listened to with a shiver thinking, this is iconic. Feel like this one will be listened to again
The thing about this album is my friend had recommended this one to me a while ago, but I was just a bit reluctant because they said something along the lines of "it's kinda weird" and I was like "what the hell of a genre is baggy anyway". So this is kinda the final push I need to actually put this one on. And it was a pleasant surprise. The instrumental composing was very complex, and there's an otherworldly, dreamy and psychedelic feeling about it. Messed with my head just right. Liked this one from start to finish but the stand out tracks are: She Bangs The Drums, Bye Bye Bad Man, Made of Stone, Shoot You Down, I Am The Resurrection.
Great Manchester pop, 4.5.
It’s perfect. Mani and Reni hold it down as a dance rhythm section and allow John Squire to innovate. All with Ian Brown’s timeless melodies. No skip album
The Stone Roses are one of the most recognisable Madchester groups, and this album was arguably one of the biggest influences of the Britpop genre that soon emerged out of the UK. The album has everything one would expect from a post-punk era rock band from introspective lyrics to intelligent, melody-driven guitar playing, incorporated with a touch of original production that led to truly unique moments such as the opening of 'I Wanna Be Adored' and the reversed ostinato of 'Don't Stop.' The album captures a sound that can only be described as quintessentially Manchester, and there is some genuine virtuosity on the guitar from John Squire that mixes the overdriven sound of the 60's with the more subtle melodies of post-punk. Tracks to look out for include Waterfall, She Bangs the Drums, and I Am the Resurrection.
Wow, very impressed with this album. I feel like I understand 90’s British music a lot better after listening to it — it’s like all the Britpop bands tried, and failed, to copy this album. Definitely a must-listen and maybe I’m starry-eyed but I’m giving this a 5… #50
0006 / 26.12.2024 I always thought a band called The Stone Roses will be very generic, boring and nobody's favorite band. Anyways, I cried multiple times while listening to this. Maybe not because of the music but because I just randomly started to hate myself and think about suicide so much that I don't even remember the last time something like this happened. And this album felt really comforting while I'm at a very low point. Please listen to Fools Gold too, it's great Choruses - ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Mixing - ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ Lyrics - ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Vocals - ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ Instrumentation - ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Rating: 95 Highlights: I Wanna Be Adored; She Bangs the Drums; (Song for My) Sugar Spun Sister; Made of Stone; I Am the Resurrection; Fools Gold Lowlights: N/A
Bra grejer det här.
Generally don't like this kind of music, this album is an absolute banger though
Strap in, because I'm about to wax lyrical. There has been something of a backlash against the Roses in recent years. Brown is now obviously embarrassing, and they made the mistake of carrying on after the Heaton Park comebacks (first night of that is in the top three gigs of my life btw), but none of that can ever take away from the fact that these four scallies made something approaching perfection with their debut album, changed the course of Manchester's history, became the most talked about band in the country and provided me with the soundtrack to my life. I can't even go on, because it won't stop. Suffice to say, I think in some ways this is the most important album in my life, for all kinds of reasons. This is the one.
Love it when the dads are right - also never forget when Ian Brown played a copper in the This Is England '86 fight scene
This album was an absolute joy to listen to. Very much reminded me of later Incubus - chill songs that are catchy and and rocking. There's something to be said for an album that's just fun to put on and get lost in. An all around blast
My fave so far!
I didn’t really get this album when it came out but I have since come to realise what an amazing album it is. No hesitation in awarding this a most coveted 5
New fav!!! WOAH mama !
Before there was Wonder Wall, there was Waterfall. Used to listen to the original disc constantly til it got stolen from my car. So many great tracks, always leaves me to wonder what might have been if they had done more. Gawd, I needed these tunes today!
This has been one of my favorite discoveries
Love this. Then and now.
One of my all time favourite records, an easy 5 star
🍋
Pretty cool - I'll have to give this one another listen sometime in the future. While a lot of the songs are too long for their own good, the strong instrumental and vocal performances more than compensate for the lack of brevity ==================== Edit (8th of July, 2025): If I had the time to amend my shitty lil first impressions of this album, I would. This album is absolutely fantastic, though you don't need me to tell you that. Phenomenal album. So many different sounds and emotions, yet none of the tracks falter. If anything, "I Wanna Be Adored" only gets more exciting with future listens when you consider how hard these guys smashed it out of the park on their first outing. Original rating: 3 stars Amended rating: 5 stars
Really pleased with this one. Could see myself listening to this in the future. Hear a few different bands I like.
Nothing really to add. I've owned it since it came out. I still play it.
This is #day106 of my #1001albumsyoumusthearbeforeyoudie challenge, and... don't these times fill your eyes? Because, you know, this is the one if you wanna be a door. It goes without saying, that what we have here under the striking and unique album cover (do you know the story behind the lemon addition btw? Look it up on the Internet, that's a fun insight) is an absollute pinnacle of Madchester scene, and one of the most essential transition albums in music history merging two extremely interesting musical eras, '80s and '90s. Marrying dance and rock music (that signature guitar play by John Squire, that rhythm section by Mani and Reni, which is absolutely crazy) with dispassionate vocals of Ian Brown, The Stone Roses created a (pun un/intended) stone-cold classic that stood the test of time. I get to associate this record with youth and reverie, it makes me feel good in a nostalgic kind of way. My personal favorites include "I Wanna Be Adored," "(Song for My) Sugar Spun Sister," "Made Of Stone (!)," and "I Am the Resurrection." But the whole album is flawless. This is, without a doubt, a 5 out of 5. Looking forward to #day107.
I love this album so much. The melodies are amazing and it's got psychedelia and New Wave and indie rock. It's just about perfect. Only thing is that if you listen to the lyrics, it is pretty creepy.
Vibey
classic
9/10.
This album is easily one of the best of all time. I Wanna Be Adored, Waterfalls, She Bangs the Drums, and This is the One have been on mixed tapes and playlists for over 30 years. I’ve read books on this album, watched documentaries on the band, etc.
Full of great songs that get better with each listen. Still skip the 1st track, but I've grown to really love this album.
This album singlehandedly layed the entire groundworks for britpop, and for that I will always be grateful to it.
This record deserves all of the 'roses' 🌹 thrown it's way. Remarkable piece of music history as well.
I’m so confused about Fools Gold being the last track. I don’t even remember where I think it goes, but I do know it should not be at the end. Otherwise, perfect album!
A seminal album from my youth, cut about St Mary’s primary in flares and SPX with a flowery shirt aged 11 cos I was obsessed with them. Met John Squire backstage working at T in the Park and now pals with his son, funny old game! Such an amazing album, every song golden
Don’t know how it took so long but I love this album.
Incredible
The Stones Roses are to Britpop what Oppenheimer was to nuclear warfare. In terms of both musical merit and legacy, this album is a 5. Every song here is a banger, no skips whatsoever. The producer for this album was the same one as on Pink Floyd's Meddle which probably explains why I have such a love for this album. Such an energetic and varied album, it's a blast from start to finish. Just the fact that Don't Stop was a silly studio experiment with backwards sound that doesn't just sound like a dumb gimmick track is testament to the quality of this album. Also another anti-shoutout to Robert Christgau who called this band overhyped. Personal highlights for me are Made of Stone, (Song for My) Sugar Spun Sister, and I Am The Resurrection. I listened to the UK LP which doesn't include Fool's Gold (if it did this album would be a 6/5). Fun fact: the leader singer was diddled by his teacher and he's also an ant-vaxx covid cooker.
Perfect. This album reminds me of my youth and I've always loved it so I am biased. Such a unique sound. The Stone Roses are a bit like Led Zeppelin, in that each musician in the band is amazing but the guitarist steals focus. There are a lot of great singles and EPs from this era but it turned out that this album was a one off, never to be repeated. ("The Second Coming" has some good moments, but nothing like this consistent brilliance.) Maximum points!
Day273 - 1989 had some great albums and this should have been bigger than it was in the states.
Proper good
This album is exceptional. The Stone Roses both really captured the sound of their points of inspiration from the 60s and 70s, and also made an airy/atmospheric listen unique to both the 80s and 90s. There are so many peaks on this record, but "Bye Bye Bad Man", "I am the Resurrection" and "Fools Gold" are flawless in my eyes. A joy to listen to, and I go back at least once a month. 5/5
This is a record i had heard a couple times but never really listened to. I absolutely love it. Fair to say I'll really listen to it many more times.
Wow wow wow I love this!! I thought it was really good after my first listen and definitely deserved a second. After listen number 2, I'm addicted. 1989?? How does it sound so good? Pure listening joy from start to finish, and the loop is so satisfying. Resurrection is such a high energy closer, and then you get to reel it back into chill mode with I Wanna Be Adored. Do get the hype. 5/5.
Me gustó mucho, un gran descubrimiento, Oasis wanted to be them
Brilliant record, ageless!
I can't remember if I'd heard of The Stone Roses and this album before I started this project, but I know that since starting this, I've heard a lot of praise for this album. Several months ago, I was looking for something to listen to, and decided to check this out. I was immediately blown away by this album, and I was kicking myself that I had never listened to it before. I fired it back up on a drive home from work a few weeks ago, and I'm certainly not opposed to listening to it again today. This album is fantastic from start to finish. The guitars are bright and shimmering in tone, and the drumming compliments the sound incredibly well. Ian Brown's vocals are great, and he and John Squire's songwriting is excellent as well. The guitar playing on this album has glimpses of shoegaze, but the overall sound of the album is incredibly unique, serving almost as a halfway point between The Smiths and Britpop. The band uses a lot of elements from eighties music, but they use them in ways that are completely new and novel. "Waterfall" and its brilliantly backwards counterpart "Don't Stop" are my favorite part of the album, but other than that, there's nothing that really stands out to me on this album, because the whole thing is just perfect from start to finish. This album is delightful to listen to, and this will certainly not be the last time that I listen to it.
Another classic album. Still sounds as good to me today as it did when i first bought. Blends so many different interesting sounds and Ian Brown could actually hold a tune. I have no idea how this has aged for new listeners, as for me it is still as fresh and new as the day it was released and listening to it I feel like the teenager I was at the time. Forever 5 stars!
It was a beautiful first album.
Just fantastic, as good as it got back in the day, and still holds up excellently well. They actually overachieved despite an absolute tidal wave of hype. "I Wanna Be Adored" is a compelling opener, setting a serious tone, and the closer "Fool's Gold," is a strong contender for best cut of the last few decades. What's in between could be criticized for being just a litlte bit samey, but man is it groovy and deeply pleasurable to listen to. The record's too good to be characterized as a one-hit wonder but man does one with we'd heard more from this lot.
I thought I'd heard this album before but it's been a long time. I really like this album. Great song writing, hooky with some nice harmonies and a little fuzziness. Reminds a bit of Jesus and Mary Chain's mellower stuff. Just when the album sounds like it's winding down, it hits you with "This is the One", another great song, and finishes with the fun jam song I Am the Ressurection.
Best 2 closing songs on an album ever.
From the first song, I was in total love. This is an album like no other. It is great, amazing, moody, lovely, smart, thoughtful. Love the bop beeps. A hundred percent recommend. Great album, totally.
God start, god driv. Fin balanse mellom de to første låtene. Ligger an til 4 eller 5.
One of my favorites albums ever, I was obsessed when I discovered it some months ago. I used to hear it a lot coming home from college on a crowded bus and wanted to feel something good for a change. "I Wanna Be Adored" is such a great intro and "She Bangs the Drums" sets the mood for the rest of the album. I personally love when an album has an "intermission" song and "Elizabeth My Dear" is an excellent one. It's a queen's hater version of "Scarborough Fair". Very solid and consistent album. Absolute banger. 10/10.
Pub music, more to life than being in a pub
Brilliant. The suction is incredible. Never thought I’d get this hair and ahit out the carpet. Highly recommend. Leeroy. Chertsey
Superbonito.
Apart from Fools Gold (which I though was by INXS! ha ha - whoops) I hadn't heard any of these tracks - I've been missing out! I really enjoyed this album and listened to it all day today, I had to do a lot of driving and it was a great album for the car. I feel like this sound influenced so many other musicians I love - but my one major criticism is backwards recordings are so naff (Waterfall/Don't stop), plus a few of the outros were a bit too long - BUT on the whole I loved it. I've delayed writing my review because I couldn't decide between a 4 and a 5 - It's not quite a 5, but I'm a lover, so I'm giving it 5!
A classic of the genre. The songwriting is perfect and the music perfectly captured a time a place. I was just too young for this when it first hit, but it didnt take me long to catch up and i've come to wrap myself up in this like a warm hug
This is the one and I am the resurrection are good enough on their own to earn this one a 5. But there's at least 5 more bangers on the album. One of my favorite albums ever.
First song is really good
❤️❤️❤️ I love this album ❤️❤️❤️ Been one of my favorites for years. Even Ian's conspiracy theories cannot change the feeling that this is the perfect album.
An excellent, highly unique album. This is much harder than most to pin down to a genre, its influences aren't different types of bricks, they're melted down and mixed together into the foundation to make this brilliant, sometimes gazey, sometimes old school poppy, sometimes post punky album that just works. My only minor gripe with this album is that the ending is a bit drawn out in my view.
Weirdly i felt some folk in there, folk mixed with psychedelia and early indie sad-skater brushes, opening the huge door to britpop without knowing so that much. Like emotions put on a blender and drinking it raw, no filters.
This album gets a full star bonus just for I Want to Be Adored, and a bonus star for releasing this all the way back in 1989. This song could have released yesterday and it would still be a banger. This album was really good, with a great trio to open. Didn't love Don't Stop, but it has a unique style, almost like it's played backwards. The rest of the album is timeless and holds up very, very well. My favorites are I Wanna Be Adored, Waterfall, Bye Bye Bad Man, and Made of Stone.
I've heard the name The Stone Roses but cannot recall ever listening to them. I guess they were bigger in England than the States. I found this album to sound so progressive for 1989. It sounds like it came out tomorrow. It does not sound like an 80's album (albeit on the cusp of the 90's). It was refreshing to listen to this album and I liked every song, especially Fool's Gold, which almost sounded different than the rest of the album so I'm ashamed to like it best but it seems like one of their most popular songs so I guess I have good taste. There aren't too many songs close to 10 minutes long that I can say I like this much but it is a jam. I would love to listen to this again and dive into the lyrics more as they sometimes get lost in the mix a bit, but even without them I give this 5 stars.
Just facking superb. It doesn’t get much better than this. It could well be the album I’ve listened to the most, certainly top 5. Simpsons: I doubt it
**The Stone Roses - *The Stone Roses* (1989) Review** The debut album by The Stone Roses, released in 1989, is often hailed as one of the most influential records in British music history. It helped define the "Madchester" sound and bridged the gap between indie rock and dance music. This review will delve into the album's lyrics, music, production, themes, and lasting influence, while also addressing its strengths and weaknesses. ### **1. Lyrics** The Stone Roses' self-titled album is imbued with lyrical themes of freedom, rebellion, and a sense of self-confidence. Ian Brown, the band's lead vocalist and lyricist, delivers his words with a mix of swagger and mystique, often using cryptic and symbolic language. **Key Tracks and Lyrical Themes:** - **"I Wanna Be Adored":** The album opens with this track, which sets the tone for the band's attitude. The lyrics are minimalistic but powerful: "I don't have to sell my soul, he's already in me." The line captures a sense of inherent value and defiance, expressing a desire for adoration without compromise. - **"She Bangs the Drums":** This track is a celebration of music and youth, with lyrics that evoke a sense of euphoria and liberation. Lines like "Kiss me where the sun don't shine, the past was yours but the future's mine" highlight a generational shift and a claim to the future. - **"Waterfall":** A tale of escape and reinvention, "Waterfall" uses natural imagery to convey freedom. The lyrics are vivid and poetic, painting a picture of a woman breaking free from societal constraints. - **"I Am the Resurrection":** The closing track is a powerful statement of self-reliance and resilience. The chorus, "I am the resurrection and I am the light," takes on a quasi-religious tone, elevating the band's self-belief to near-messianic levels. **Pros:** The lyrics on *The Stone Roses* are one of its defining features. They are often abstract and open to interpretation, which gives the album a timeless quality. The themes of rebellion, freedom, and youthful exuberance resonate deeply, especially with the album's target audience. **Cons:** At times, the lyrics can feel repetitive or too cryptic, lacking a clear narrative. While this ambiguity adds to the album's mystique, it can also alienate listeners looking for more straightforward storytelling. ### **2. Music** Musically, *The Stone Roses* is a masterclass in blending genres. The album fuses elements of jangle pop, psychedelia, and dance music, creating a sound that was both innovative and accessible. **Musical Style and Composition:** - **Guitar Work:** John Squire's guitar playing is one of the standout elements of the album. His jangly, melodic riffs are reminiscent of 60s rock but with a modern twist. Tracks like "Waterfall" and "Made of Stone" showcase his ability to create intricate, catchy guitar lines that are both technically proficient and emotionally resonant. - **Rhythm Section:** Mani's bass lines and Reni's drumming provide a tight, danceable groove throughout the album. The rhythm section is crucial in tracks like "Fools Gold," where the bass and drums drive the song's hypnotic, funky rhythm. - **Vocals:** Ian Brown's vocal style is understated and often more about mood than technical prowess. His delivery is relaxed and confident, which complements the laid-back yet defiant tone of the lyrics. **Key Tracks and Musical Highlights:** - **"I Wanna Be Adored":** The track begins with a slow, building intro that leads into a groove-heavy rhythm. The minimalistic approach allows the lyrics and mood to take center stage. - **"She Bangs the Drums":** This track is upbeat and melodic, driven by Squire's jangly guitar and Reni's infectious drumming. The song's structure is straightforward but effective, with a memorable chorus that has become iconic. - **"Waterfall":** A quintessential track that epitomizes the album's sound. The interplay between the guitar and bass is exceptional, and the song's dynamic shifts keep it engaging throughout. - **"Fools Gold":** Although not on the original UK release, this track is often associated with the album due to its impact. It blends acid house rhythms with rock instrumentation, creating a danceable, psychedelic experience. **Pros:** The music on *The Stone Roses* is both innovative and accessible. The band successfully blends multiple genres to create a unique sound that still feels fresh today. The musicianship is top-notch, particularly Squire's guitar work and the rhythm section's tight groove. **Cons:** While the album is musically strong, some tracks can feel a bit too similar in style, leading to a lack of variety. Additionally, Ian Brown's vocal limitations are sometimes evident, which might not appeal to listeners who prefer more technically skilled vocalists. ### **3. Production** The production of *The Stone Roses* was handled by John Leckie, who played a crucial role in shaping the album's sound. The production is characterized by its clarity, warmth, and attention to detail. **Production Techniques:** - **Layering:** Leckie used extensive layering to create the album's lush, textured sound. This is evident in tracks like "Waterfall," where multiple guitar tracks are layered to create a rich, immersive soundscape. - **Reverb and Effects:** Reverb is used liberally throughout the album, giving the music a spacious, almost ethereal quality. This is particularly noticeable in tracks like "I Wanna Be Adored" and "I Am the Resurrection." - **Balance:** The production strikes a balance between the various elements, ensuring that no instrument overpowers the others. The bass and drums are prominent, giving the album its danceable groove, while the guitars and vocals are crisp and clear. **Pros:** The production on *The Stone Roses* is one of its strongest aspects. Leckie manages to capture the band's energy while also giving the album a polished, professional sound. The use of effects and layering adds depth and texture, making the album a rich listening experience. **Cons:** Some critics argue that the production is too polished, potentially sanding down the band's rougher edges. This slickness can make the album feel a bit too controlled, lacking the raw energy of a live performance. ### **4. Themes** The themes of *The Stone Roses* are rooted in the band's experiences and the cultural milieu of late 1980s Britain. The album explores ideas of youth, freedom, rebellion, and a sense of cultural renewal. **Exploration of Themes:** - **Youth and Rebellion:** The album is a celebration of youth and its associated ideals. Tracks like "She Bangs the Drums" and "I Am the Resurrection" capture a sense of defiance and a rejection of the status quo. - **Freedom and Escape:** Many songs on the album explore the idea of escape, both physically and mentally. "Waterfall" is a prime example, telling the story of a woman breaking free from societal constraints. - **Mysticism and Symbolism:** There are elements of mysticism and spiritual symbolism throughout the album, particularly in tracks like "I Am the Resurrection" and "I Wanna Be Adored." These themes add a layer of depth to the album, inviting listeners to interpret the lyrics in various ways. **Pros:** The themes of *The Stone Roses* are universal and timeless, making the album resonate with listeners across generations. The blend of personal and cultural commentary gives the album a broad appeal. **Cons:** The abstract nature of the themes might not be to everyone's taste. Some listeners may find the lyrics and themes too vague or open-ended, preferring more direct or narrative-driven songwriting. ### **5. Influence** *The Stone Roses* is widely regarded as one of the most influential albums in British music history. It played a crucial role in the development of the "Madchester" scene and the broader Britpop movement that followed in the 1990s. **Impact on Music and Culture:** - **Madchester Scene:** The album's blend of rock and dance music was a defining characteristic of the Madchester scene. Bands like Happy Mondays and Inspiral Carpets were part of this movement, but The Stone Roses were its undisputed leaders. - **Britpop Influence:** *The Stone Roses* laid the groundwork for the Britpop explosion of the mid-1990s. Bands like Oasis and Blur were heavily influenced by the album's sound and attitude, with Oasis in particular citing The Stone Roses as a major inspiration. - **Legacy:** The album's legacy extends beyond its immediate influence on other bands. It is often cited as one of the greatest albums of all time, appearing in numerous "best of" lists and polls. Its impact on British music and culture is still felt today, with many contemporary bands acknowledging its influence. **Pros:** The influence of *The Stone Roses* cannot be overstated. It helped shape an entire genre and had a lasting impact on British music and culture. The album's blend of rock and dance music was groundbreaking at the time and continues to inspire musicians today. **Cons:** While its influence is undeniable, some critics argue that the album's legacy has been somewhat inflated over time. The band's subsequent struggles and lack of a strong follow-up album have led some to question whether *The Stone Roses* has been overly mythologized. ### **6. Pros and Cons of the Album** **Pros:** - **Innovative Sound:** The Stone Roses' debut album blends genres seamlessly, creating a sound that was both innovative and influential. - **Strong Musicianship:** The band's technical skills, particularly John Squire's guitar work and the tight rhythm section, are top-notch. - **Timeless Lyrics and Themes:** The lyrics, while often abstract, explore themes of youth , rebellion, and freedom that resonate across generations. - **Polished Production:** John Leckie's production is clear, warm, and textured, enhancing the album's overall impact. - **Cultural Impact:** The album played a crucial role in the development of the Madchester scene and the Britpop movement, leaving a lasting legacy. **Cons:** - **Repetitive Elements:** Some tracks can feel too similar in style, leading to a lack of variety across the album. - **Vocal Limitations:** Ian Brown's vocal abilities are not as strong as his bandmates' musicianship, which may be a drawback for some listeners. - **Over-Polished Production:** The production, while polished and professional, can feel a bit too controlled, potentially lacking the raw energy of live performances. - **Cryptic Lyrics:** The abstract nature of the lyrics might not appeal to listeners who prefer more straightforward storytelling. - **Mythologized Legacy:** The album's influence and legacy, while significant, have been subject to debate, with some critics suggesting it has been overly mythologized. ### **Conclusion** *The Stone Roses* is a landmark album that has had a profound impact on British music. Its blend of genres, strong musicianship, and thematic depth make it a timeless classic. However, it is not without its flaws, including repetitive elements and vocal limitations. Despite these drawbacks, the album's influence and cultural significance are undeniable, securing its place as one of the most important albums of its era. For fans of indie rock, alternative music, or anyone interested in the evolution of British music, *The Stone Roses* is an essential listen. Its pros far outweigh its cons, and its status as a cultural and musical touchstone is well-deserved.
Refused to listen. Repittion is never a good thing. Forward ever, backwards never. But five stars, obvs, for what it meant to me at the time.
Awesome
A record that defines a generation and a style. The Madchester sound opening door.
Full of bangers
never listened to this before. now after looking up a little can't believe i never did. this shit is why i'm still doing this stuff
I wasn't convinced by the first couple of tracks, but by the end of "Bye Bye Bad Man" it was clear this is the kind of alternative band I can get behind. They still know how to play a bit of rock'n'roll, and they are building on that instead of thinking of ways to sound quirky first and then using guitars as one of the tools to implement these ideas. The lyrics are definitely extra, but they still have solid concepts and sometimes a plot behind them. The understated vocals are purposeful instead of just sounding disinterested. Also, some of the songs just remind me of a crisp autumn morning, and that just can't be beat.
Classic
show demais.
A long time favourite
One of the greatest albums ever
I listened to this for the first time a couple of weeks ago and it didn’t really make an impact. For whatever reason the whole album kept me entertained this time. I can hear how the sound helped inspire Oasis as well. Rating: 4.8
Enjoyable tunes brings it up to close to 4 stars, but freaking Reni's percussion, holy crap, that makes it 5. Had no idea who he was before hearing this album and so wish there more of his drum work available out there.
Legendarisch. De '89 sound en de grondleggers van de britpop in de jaren negentig. Maar vooral de flow van de nummers is zo uniek en overweldigend. De plaat rockt maar flowed tegelijkertijd. En ook dan lukt het de Stone Roses om te variëren en te verrassen tussen de nummers. Met bijvoorbeeld Elizabeth my dear of het vreemde Dont Stop. Wat jammer dat zij niet meer platen gemaakt hebben. Of misschien wel niet, des te bijzonderder is dit album. Eéntje om te koesteren! 9/10 Highlights Waterfall Fools gold I Am the Resurrection Bye bye bad man I wanna be adored
Pretty much perfection. Every song is excellent!
The Stone Roses started off their career with I Wanna Be Adored?! Damn, talk about starting off with a banger. This is essential late 80s post punk shoegaze. 4.5 stars.
9/10 hell yeah
muito bueno
Doesn’t get much better than this.
I wasn't very familiar with the Stone Roses before today. The instant I heard the first song start to play, I knew that I would love this album. It was catchy, danceable, and deep. I had high expectations for an indie rock album and my expectations were smashed. I loved this album. I'll have to listen to it again someday. 5/5
Eu simplesmente amei esse álbum. Ele tem algo leve e etéreo, que traz um sentimento de tranquilidade e contentamento. O timbre das guitarras é perfeito, assim como as frases com reverb que parecem improvisadas que floreiam o fundo das músicas; as linhas de baixo são simples mas trazem algo de interessante e com swing; a bateria sabe acompanhar o ritmo e o feeling da música sem ser monótona; e o vocal traz características de músicas psicodélicas que somam muito a atmosfera das músicas.
A little bit of the Smiths, a little bit of Fleet Foxes, and a lot of wonderful chill guitar. When I saw that this was a British rock album from 1989 I was bracing myself for a lot of 80's synth, but was spectacularly and pleasantly surprised by what I got instead. Every song felt fresh and unique, and just as I felt like the vibe was getting stale, the next song would come in with a completely refreshed beat and melody that rejuvenated the listening experience. I don't often give out 5s, but I'm contemplating it with this one, mostly because of how enjoyable it was *plus* the pleasant surprise. I feel like this album was extraordinarily influential for later bands.
Hell yeah, I’ve never heard these guys before so this was an awesome surprise!
Loved this album for years. Hands down, one of the best debut albums. Contains a mixture of numerous experimental sounds.
Classic album, I was already familiar with most of the tracks. This project's given me a new appreciation for it and I will definitely listen again.
One of the best albums of all time. Warped my cassette from playing it non-stop for a year. This absolute perfection.
чем больше слушаю, тем больше нравится он чудесно смеется над фанком, кайфует от созвучных слов и просто наслаждается собой алкоальбом: голубое кипрское вино
Love it. I always wonder how I'd feel if I heard old favourite albums for the first time in 2024, for example, but I just have to give this a five, as I've always loved it. She Bangs the Drums, I Am the Resurrection - absolute crackers.
A perfect album. Timeless. Epic. Just perfect.
Whoooooooa I’ve always heard of the Stone Roses, even had them recommended to me once or twice. But I always confused them with Stone Temple Pilots (in name only) and never sought them out. But this was amazing. Really chill but upbeat psychedelic vibes. Great riffs and energy. Maybe slightly repetitive but not to the point of being annoying or excessive. Gives off big 70’s feelings but updated for the late 80’s. This sounds so totally different to anything else I’ve heard from the late 80’s, actually, that I had to check the release year multiple times. Rock was going a few different places around this time. Grunge was developing and would soon explode. Punk was doing its own thing and would develop into pop punk soon enough. Britpop was very much a thing and thriving in the UK. But this defies those trends and seems staunchly rooted in what must’ve been their influences from the prior decades. But it doesn’t feel derivative, as easy as it could’ve been to do that. It’s a fresh take on a genre that wasn’t, to my knowledge, in high demand at the time. I could gush about the different riffs and grooves I loved here, but just listen to “I Am the Resurrection” for everything you need to know. 5 stars. Happily. Just such great songs that don’t feel repetitive, have a consistent sound, and don’t get old. You’d think that’s easy enough to do, but it honestly seems like a high bar sometimes with this list… Standout tracks: I Wanna Be Adored, Waterfall, Don’t Stop, (Song for My) Sugar Spun Sister, Shoot You Down, I Am the Resurrection
4.6 - Such a cool album, great variety and very familiar even though I've never sat down to listen to the whole thing
Pretty dope, I really like 80s college rock when I hear it, REM vibes on this one.
Baggy, indie rock. Incredibly memorable album full of catchy tunes. Post-punky bass, twinkly guitar, psychedelic and shoegazey soundscapes. An album to truly get lost in. It simply makes me feel good while listening to it. Very likely to revisit. 5/5
This whole album was just great. Vibes of early U2 and INXS. Loved the clean Vox-y sounds and long instrumental jams.
The best of the 80s plus the best of the 90s, and more! Energetic, psychedelic, tuneful, boastful, aiming for the broad and the narrow, and always fun. I didn’t find this album until about 20 years ago, but in that time it has continued to grow and expand in my world, and I find something new & amazing every time I listen.
This one took me a while to come around on. Not that i hated it at first. But that after a couple listens I realized how great the whole album is. Def coming back to this one for years to come
Have always know about this album but have never given it a proper listen. A fantastic listen that kept surprising me with each track. It’s got a cohesive vibe, but without every track sounding the same. Great guitar work, spacey but catchy vocals, and a groovy rhythm section. What more can you ask for? This is one of those albums to put on when you need that uplifting chill vibe. Will definitely be in regular rotation for me in the future.
Phenomenonal debut album, culminating sad post rock of the late 80's with something new and fresh. Straight from the heart of England, most songs offer music resolve and give the listener a sense of hope. Complex layering of intricate musical parts combined to create a wall of alternative sound in which the listener can't help at reach for the next track. I particularly think the drums shine on this album all the way through. Hard rock riffs and bitchin solos peppered throughout, all against this dance pop infused rhythm.
Reminder of how epic this free spirit, creative, dreamlike album is! Squires lead is the heart of the album. The melodies throughout make me appreciate different songs through the years.
A problem I often have with these less-known UK bands is that they often sound like a knock-off of a famous band. I don't think that happens with this album, they have their own sound and it's absolutely great. Will listen again and add to my favourites.
This is pretty awesome. I really wish it sounded better, but the mix of genres is really cool. Very modern considering it was 1989! 4.5
I blame my beautiful boy being born for missing this band & album back in ‘89…but that’s ok. This album would have been a big part of my musical life.so now it will be. Great stuff.
Absolutely nailed on 5 stars. Not a bad song here. One or two transition tracks, but still good. But after that I'd say there are 7 songs that could each have been hit single.
Wow. This album was ahead of its time. The production, the song structure, the ambient sounds, the guitar tones. So so solid. Really love this album. Will continue to listen.