I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got

I love this album. Not only a lovely voice, but the album is cohesive. Despite some depressing subject matters, the album is very listenable.

Look, Sinead O'Connor is so fucking cool. I'm not willing to argue about this. It's extremely punk rock to shave a different musical group's iconography into your head to perform your song at the Grammys in protest of them separating out the rap section and it's also extremely punk rock to tear up photos of the Pope on television. This album has a few low points but I'm willing to overlook them. Nothing Compares

Watching All The Usual Suspects™ getting foamed up over her SNL appearance was a formative memory of my youth. "Remember what I told you. If they hated me they will hate you" RIP Sinead, you were more punk rock than any punk rocker.

Nothing Compares 2 U is definitely worth the price of admission to this album, everything else is a nice bonus. I cant say I'm even a Sinead fan when it comes down to it, but wowzers did she ever nail it with this one.Great writing, great voice, I always end up thinking her larger-than-life style would sound great on something Jim Steinman wouldve composed, as strange as that sounds.

Hey this was surprisingly good! The Emperor’s New Clothes was great and obviously Nothing Compares 2 U is a 10/10. I dug the whole thing from start to finish though!

Haunting especially given all we know about Sineads struggles in life. Was great to hear this fantastic album again.

Tämäkin levy löytyy hyllystä ja on tullut kuunneltua säännöllisen epäsäännöllisesti julkaisusta saakka. 90-luvun alussa tämä oli mun ”unilevy” jota kuunnellessa nukahdin ja sitä se on edelleen. Levyllä on todella hyviä biisejä ja Sineadin ääni on todella jumalainen.

Saint Sinead was never going to get fewer than 5 stars, but I understand why some people may not find this album to their taste. A particular mood is required to really let this album sink in - it's so heartfelt and honest it can be excruciating at times. However - Sinead O'Connor was the last of a dead breed of artist. The kind that lived and died for their art, their community and their politics. Money was never a motivating factor, nor was fame or anything that may have accompanied it. I do believe this is an album everybody should hear, and that we should talk about SoC at every given opportunity, lest we forget why art is so important in the first place.

So different from all the other stuff on this list, unique voice and someone who saw the Pope for what he was

I listened to today's and yesterday's albums while playing stardew valley. While there wasnt a lot of ambient noise during yesterday's, there was a lot today. Feels So Different was filled with birdsong, Nothing Compares 2 U accompanied by rain. This album benefits from the same thing Will the Circle Be Unbroken suffered from. Where WtCBU had a full album-worth of songs I enjoyed, but the majority did not click with me, here I only click with a few songs, but it ends up being half the album

Really great

Really fantastic, varied, impactful. As Bharg said, albums like this are the whole reason to be doing this project

This is really something. Only have been sorta passingly familiar with Sinéad, and been meaning to check this out forever really. Turns out, it's brilliant! So special. I think it was the moment, after the haunting opening track, that "I Am Stretched On Your Grave" kicks off with the Funky Drummer break that I knew this would be a great ride. I think "The Emperor's New Clothes" is the best in show but shoutout to "Last Days of Our Acquaintance" and the aforementioned "I Am Stretched On Your Grave". Overall an incredible listen.

An often haunting album. Each song has at least one instance of incredible beauty or heartbreak. An amazing album

I was 8 when this album came out so it went over my head. I’m sorry Sinead. Your voice is intense. Pure. Loved this record. There’s a very 90s feel to the guitar forward tracks. 5/5. Rip.

9/10

Still extraordinary. Rest in Power.

i like ghost voices

So many amazing, iconic songs!

This is an amazing album by an amazing artist... The Lion and the Cobra set the scene with a more edgy feel, this is more polished but I like both albums. This one has Nothing Compares to You - a stunning song combining two geniuses but I feel Sinead's own compositions can be just as good as Prince's (different though). This is fabulous music but Sinead was also a revelation and thus her early albums totally must be on this list. She is missed.

I did not know she made half of these songs! This album lead me to listen to her back catalogue.

Easy pleasy Vocals Lyric Instumental No fast forwarding. Just lay down your remote and enjoy entire album then maybe even hit replay

IT’S BEEN SEVEN HOURS AND FIFTEEN DAYSSSSSS

Man, that was beautiful.

I know Nothing Compares to U is the big hit but the five songs before it are incredible.

Absolutely Fabulous!! One of my favorite albums ever. This fact surprises many of my friends as I'm a bit of a metalhead. Sinead is one of the most fantastic singers I've ever listened to. Her range, power, and emotion are insane. Like many others, I'm saddened that her politics got in the way of her fame (and made her mental problems worse). But, I also sincerely applaud her for having the gumption, gall, and cojones to stand up against injustice, using her platform to amplify knowledge of those horrors. All but one song here have a thumbs up from me and are on multiple playlists. Just can't listen to "I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got" very often. Her voice is as sterling as ever, but with minimal arrangement and her talk-singing, I'm left a little flat by it. Sad that it's the last song because that's a great place to leave a great impression and this just makes the album fall off dully. She was amazing. Her voice was impeccable and wide. Her lyrics are deep and her musicality is brilliant. How could it be anything but a 5/5??

RIP One of her best for sure.

Incredible. Vocals take center stage, but the insturmental component of the music is a perfect match for the energy, passion and beauty of O'Connor's voice. There is a subtle melancholy throughout the song that is beautifully haunting, and needs to be paid attention to in order to be fully appreciated. Very emotional music, not for a quick and casual listening at all. Overall, one of the best albums I have ever listened to.

I Am Stretched on Your Grave

Nothing Compares 2 U was the song that first brought Sinead O'Connor to my attention. I listened to it a lot back then. I listened to the rest of the album once, but then forgot about it. Sinead has a great voice. The album is fantastic. 5/5

horrible memory related to this album, i was at a thrift store and they had a CD copy for only a couple bucks but i opened the jewel case and someone had swiped the actual CD. devastating

Nice.

Magical

super mooie Ierse accenten fave album van mamatje betekenisvolle boodschappen obvi geen duidelijk verband tussen songs buiten rebellie

Frábær plata hjá Írska undrinu. Skemmtilegir textar, beittir og góð samfélagsádeila. Sinead var mikill hugsuður og var annt um réttlætið.

Frábær plata, sterk lög og beittir textar. Svo mikil tilfinning og sársauki í röddinni. Nothing compares to u auðvitað með flottari lögum, en Black boys on mopeds ekki síðra. Svo hafði hún auðvitað rétt fyrir sér með kaþólsku kirkjuna.

En 1990, alors que les années 80 exhalaient leur dernier souffle parfumé à la laque, une Irlandaise au crâne rasé et au regard de pythie est venue mettre un grand coup de pied dans la fourmilière pop. "I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got" n'est pas qu'une collection de chansons, c'est une autopsie à cœur ouvert, un acte de foi et de défiance balancé à la gueule du monde. Alors oui, parlons-en tout de suite, évacuons le mammouth au milieu du couloir : "Nothing Compares 2 U". Le tube. L'hymne planétaire qui a fait pleurer dans les chaumières et a transformé Sinéad O'Connor en superstar mondiale, presque malgré elle. On l'a tous entendue jusqu'à la nausée, mais refais l'exercice : isole-toi, mets un casque et revisionne le clip... ce plan fixe, ce visage. Et cette fameuse larme qui coule. Ce n'est pas du cinéma, ce n'est pas d'la com', c'est une larme pour sa mère, décédée quelques années plus tôt. Et d'un coup, la sublime chanson de Prince se charge d'un poids de deuil et d'une vérité qui la transcendent. Ce n'est plus une chanson de rupture, c'est un cri primal de perte. C'est probablement une des performances vocales et émotionnelles les plus pures jamais capturées sur bande. Mais réduire ce disque à ce seul titre serait une insulte, une hérésie car cet album est d'une richesse et d'une complexité folles. La preuve ? Le morceau qui suit "Nothing Compares 2 U" est "I Am Stretched On Your Grave". Un putain de poème irlandais du XVIIe siècle posé sur un sample de James Brown. Une fusion hallucinante de tradition celtique et de breakbeat hip-hop. En 1990, personne ne faisait ça. C'était d'une audace et d'une modernité qui laissent encore pantois aujourd'hui. Elle ne se contentait pas de chanter, elle défonçait les chapelles, elle créait des ponts entre les siècles et les continents. Et l'album est un champ de mines émotionnel. "The Emperor's New Clothes" est un single pop-rock parfait, une charge féroce contre l'hypocrisie, avec une rage qui annonce déjà le rock alternatif de la décennie à venir. Et que dire de "The Last Day of Our Acquaintance" ? Sans doute le titre de rupture le plus violent et libérateur jamais enregistré. La chanson monte en puissance, la guitare se fait de plus en plus stridente, et la voix de Sinéad passe du murmure résigné au hurlement de pure rage cathartique. C'est le son d'une chaîne qui se brise. Ça te prend aux tripes, ça t'éviscère. Ce qui rend ce disque si essentiel, si intemporel, c'est son honnêteté brutale. Il n'y a pas un gramme de gras, pas une once de calcul, c'est tout simplement l'œuvre d'une artiste qui ne sait pas tricher. Elle y parle de ses fausses couches ("Three Babies"), de sa foi complexe et tourmentée, de sa relation conflictuelle avec la célébrité et l'autorité. C'est cette vulnérabilité totale, cette mise à nu sans filet, cette intégrité qui l'a poussée, plus tard, à déchirer une photo du pape à la télévision, signant son arrêt de mort commercial aux États-Unis. Elle ne jouait pas un jeu, elle était juste incapable de se taire et cet album en est le manifeste. C'est un disque qui refuse le compromis. Il est à la fois magnifique et dérangeant, doux et incroyablement violent. C'est une œuvre complète, un voyage intérieur qui ne laisse personne indemne. C'est un excellent album "humain" qui vous prend aux tripes. C'est un chef-d'œuvre incandescent, un bloc de vérité pure. Un 5/5 indiscutable, qui résonne encore avec une force inouïe plus de trente ans après. Un disque pour ceux qui savent que la beauté se trouve souvent au bord du précipice.

Its hard to listen to this album without feeling sad about how her life panned out (same feeling as listening to Whitney Houston's I wanna dance with somebody). She has a fantastically powerful and emotional voice and I really enjoyed it. Stand out track - Blackboys on Mopeds. Was going high 4 - but think it just edges into 5.

This was haunting back in 1990, and doubly so now, it has a few upbeat songs like "The Emperor's New Clothes" but it's mostly a maudlin dirgey affair, and extremely moving.

Sometime during my teenage-ness, I bought an album on cassette, I can't remember which one, and when I popped it in my stereo, this album started playing. I guess they made an error in packaging. I'd love to say it was a happy accident and a life-changing musical experience. Instead, I chose to be upset about it and refused to even give it a listen because Nothing Compares 2 U annoyed me at the time. And I never revisited it. So this is kind of a full circle moment, and I can finally give this album the attention and accolades it deserves. She has a beautifully haunting voice, and her emotions pour out of these songs. The song compositions are really cool too, and I love when you can hear her Irish really come out. I am no longer annoyed by Nothing Compares 2 U, it's an incredible version of that song. Also really loved Three Babies, The Emperor's New Clothes and You Cause As Much Sorrow. She blessed the world with song and passion and persistence to stand up for what's right in the face of adversity. I wish she would've been blessed with a happier life.

Beeindruckende Stimme, ergreifend, schön und traurig

This album was released during a bad period of my life which in some respects I would prefer to forget. But this album more than any other released then reminds me of that period. It’s not so much the lyrics which whilst poignant have no meaning of that time but the actual tunes and ambience of the music which take me back to that black hole. That all said it is an album which I adore. As I have already said didn’t take much notice of the words back then but listening today a lot of what she wrote is still very current and not out of place today. For instance Black Boys On Mopeds is a take on Thatcher’s Government and police brutality. But the words ‘These are dangerous days, to say what you feel is to dig your own grave’ resonates with me living in England in 2025 where the authority of the police has diminished so much everyone it seems can do whatever they want ( to borrow another line from the album) How times change? For the better or worse? My own feelings is depicted by that single teardrop at the end of that well known video. RIP SInead. 5/5 23/9/25

Such a powerful album by an incredible woman. The music is 4 stars for me, but I think its such an important album, and Sinead is such an important musician I'm giving it an extra star.

Sinéad O’Connors I Do Not Want What I Haven’t Got ist mehr als nur ein Album – es ist ein emotionaler Befreiungsschlag. Mit ihrer unverwechselbaren Stimme durchbricht sie jede Mauer zwischen sich und dem Hörer. Der Welthit „Nothing Compares 2 U“ ist nur die Spitze des Eisbergs: Jeder Track erzählt von Schmerz, Selbstfindung und kompromissloser Ehrlichkeit A B. Die Mischung aus irischem Protest-Folk, Pop-Rock und Hip-Hop-Elementen verleiht dem Album eine rohe, ungeschönte Intensität B. O’Connor singt nicht nur – sie lebt jeden Ton. Ihre künstlerische Integrität, gepaart mit mutigen Aussagen zur Religion, Gesellschaft und Identität, machen dieses Werk unsterblich. 😊

I have always liked Sinead as a person. Now I am learning to love her music. She never held anything back. "Extraordinary" is the only word I can conjure for this.

I loved her back in the day

sinéad, it felt like you were calling back through time to address me in particular when i was in college and i first heard you ask, “how could i possibly know what i want when i was only twenty-one?” for the longest time it felt like the only way i could understand myself was through this album. every song was like a bruise, all that blood rushing to the surface. now i’m twenty-eight and you’re gone and i still don’t know what i want. and i’m still listening, listening and watching the blood gather under my skin, grateful beyond measure to have been in a world where you were, too, once and always. fav tracks: the emperor’s new clothes; last day of our acquaintance; black boys on mopeds; i am stretched on your grave; jump in the river; you cause as much sorrow; nothing compares 2 u

She doesn't want what she hasn't got...but what she has got she would die for. This album is steeped in devotion, evident in her voice, lyrics, and accompaniment: the promises in her rendition of "I Am Stretched on Your Grave" ("If your hands were in mind I'd be sure we'd not sever"), the disillusionment with the world in "Black Boys on Mopeds" ("I love my boy and thats why I'm leaving / I don't want him to be aware that there's any such thing as grieving"), and her dedication to a lover in "Jump in the River" ("If you said 'Jump in the river' I would), and of course the pleading in her soul-baring version of "Nothing Compares 2 U". It's borderline religious, the devotion with which she paints these stories using her voice and melodies. The final and titular track evokes the sounds of prayer, as she takes her time drawing out each syllable, letting each a cappella note ring and resonate like it would in a church. It's moving to hear her reclaim these aesthetics of an institution with which she had such a tenuous relationship, using them to create a sense of sacredness not out of blind devotion, but from a palpable desire to reckon with her place in the world. I was pleasantly surprised by which songs stood out to me on this listen, because they were completely different than in the past. Among others, "I Am Stretched on Your Grave" with its Golden Age hip hop-style percussion over the 17th-century poem, is a new favorite. My reigning favorite, "Last Day of Our Acquaintance", is still a stand out, and I think that will always be true since I've permanently bound it to an unfortunate period of my life because this helped get me through it (iykyk). Every single track resonated for me though, and I look forward to which ones will stick in future relistens because I suspect over time it will end up being every single one. Fav tracks: Last Day of Our Acquaintance; Nothing Compares 2 U; I Am Stretched on Your Grave; Jump in the River

Like a certain George Michael LP, something that was a “girls album” but with maturity I can say is a classic.

I played this album out because it's one of the best ever recorded. Nothing Compares is like my 5th favorite song on the album. If you've never seen her do Emperor live, go to YouTube

Shall we deal with the big issue first? I think if you hear the opening 10 seconds to Nothing Compares 2U (this version only, do one Prince) and aren't immediately crying and singing with equal gusto, you should go and see your GP at the earliest opportunity. Overall, this album blew me away with its power, its vulnerability, its strength and its delicacy. She's just a tremendous artist and person, and deserves all the praise she gets and none of the shit she got. The stretch from track three to track seven on here is so great, and the slight drop off towards the end shouldn't let you forget that.

Phantastic Musical! I'd like to hear!

Previously, I never really got Sinead O’Connor. Yesterday I gave myself this same haircut so I felt much more connected and sympathetic towards this strong and emotive album.

What an album love her

it's a good one.

So many quintessential 90s sonic delicacies … some trip hop, proto Ray of Light with Celtic flair.

"NARTING COMPARS. NARTING COMPARS. TO YOOOOOOOOOOOOUSE" Hard to get beyond the "even bigger than a smash" hit here. *That* video. *Those* vocals. Obviously deeply troubled personally, but a glorious slice of Celtic folky-rocky business. 4 stars for the album, bonus star for calling out the Catholics for their hypocritical bullshit.

How fitting to get this on the anniversary of her passing. The day after she died I realized I didn’t know anything about her beyond Nothing Compares and controversy. So I listened to her entire catalog on iTunes. Since then I’ve been a massive fan. So yeah. Five stars.

Great

Such a lovely album. I really like it.

10/10 never heard any of her stuff before, but I’m certainly a fan now!

Simply great!

Rarely I expand my reviews outside of a couple of words of approval or dislike, but this one deserves its praise in a longer statement: This was a beautiful experience, I've never heard a song of hers other than "Nothing compares 2 U" and even when that song is a standout in the album, the rest is nothing but magical. I usually take an hour in my morning walk to experience the day's album and yesterday, by the time I got to "Three Babies" I was crying my eyes out as I was walking. And the beauty of it was that I didn't care for the people who watched me like that, that is the magic of this album for me: empathy. May she rests in peace, such a beautiful artist.

Of course, everyone knows "Nothing Compared 2 U" but sitting down and finally listening to this album has been pretty incredible. "Feels So Different" starts the album off in a pensive fashion and the rest of the album continues to hit with all the pain & experience that comes from misfortune. The climax is the single from the record but additional highlights include the "Emperor's New Clothes" & "I Am Stretched on Your Grave"

So many artists owe so much to Sinead O’Connor. The cranberries especially. I hear a lot of Bjork in Sinead. What a loss. This album moved me profoundly.

Beautiful eyes

"All I want to do is just sit here/and write it all down and rest for a while." I was only familiar with a couple of songs going into this (the stunning "Nothing Compares 2 U" cover, obviously, and "Black Boys on Mopeds", which guts me every time I hear it), so I didn't realize the range of sound and feeling on this album. O'Connor is maybe unmatched in conveying emotion with her voice. Every word, I believe her and am right there with her. It's one of her greatest gifts. It's a generous, vulnerable, honest, tough record. I loved it. Another artist that I wish had a more peaceful, happy time on this earth.

Great listen.

The music here is dreadful. It's boring, repetitive, and lifeless. And it seems to go on forever. And yet, one action made on a TV show raises all of this shit from a 1 star all the way to a 5. She gets a 5. But the record is shit.

C'mon

Great voice, soulful and full of feeling.

I had not listened to this whole thing and it was really great. An incredible spiritual, personal, and painful album, and it's just beautiful.

Day479 - an amazing album. nothing compares 2 u and emperors new clothes never get old

Incredible! Nothing more I can say. 5 Stars!

Growing up in a family where Sinead O'Connor is a huge matter...it's nice to revisit her music after so many years and found out it's actually as good as I remembered. It's classic pop songs. I think my favorite is "Black Boy On Moped", especially when after so many years I think I might get some gist of it.

She has such an incredible voice, it gives every song an emotional depth that makes it hard to listen to and not feel overwhelmed. This is an achingly beautiful album.

"I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got" is the second studio album by Irish singer Sinead O'Connor. It is classified as a rock and folk album and was nominated for four Grammy's which Sinead refused to accept the nominations or awards. The album was critically acclaimed and commercially hit #1 in both in the US and UK. The album opens with Sinead speaking the Serenity Prayer in "Feels So Different." Strings and bass. Sinead's emotional vocals. After a couple of ballads, we get more of a rock song in "The Emperor's New Clothes." Sinead takes a look at the world around her and is not happy but will be herself. Through four songs, Sinead has already showed her versality in a ballad, Middle Eastern song and rock song. And then we go into "Black Boys on Mopeds." A ballad about a police cover up of a black boy killed on a moped and Sinead doesn't want her son living in a place like this. No, I'm not crying....you are. This is the best song on the album and one of best songs of decade. Did I say one of the best songs of the decade/century? Well, Sinead covered a Prince song. It's rare that a cover song just blows away the original and that's what she did with with heart-wretching vocals in "Nothing Compares 2 U." She turns up the rock/pop quotient in "Jump Into the River." Her vocals stay at ease with the scratchy and melodic guitars. Fantastic backing vocals at the end. There comes a time and place where you know you experienced the best of what possibly could be and what is...and that's Sinead's vocals. You get that within 15 seconds of the first song with Sinead's incredible vocals.The musical production relies heavily on strings, acoustic guitar and ballads and, of course, Sinead's vocals. On this album, it's pretty clear that isn't a musical where her vocals can't shine. I don't think I ever realize just how great this album is; back in the day, I would just skip to the songs I liked...nevermore. Just an incredible album from a once in a lifetime talent. An album I demand you listen to right now.

Beautiful. 5 stars!!!!!

Cerebral. Gutsy. Amazing.

"I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got" by Sinéad O'Connor is undeniably one of the most powerful albums in the music industry, showcasing her incredible storytelling ability intertwined with deeply personal themes. The raw emotion in O'Connor's vocals captivates listeners, delivering haunting melodies that resonate long after the music fades. Each track unfolds a narrative that is both intimate and universal, cementing this album as a profound exploration of love, loss, and self-identity.

Love Sinéad, I usually reach for lion & cobra, but sitting down and consciously listening to this record really grew my appreciation for it

Sad and I like it

Although most of the compositions are elegantly simple and the phrasing unrushed, Sinead's vocals are pervasively, searingly intense. Some of the performances are like a lightly reverberating lullaby that makes your ears burn from the young woman's scorn. I admit my rating is biased since I have loved her records a long time and admired how strong-willed and self-reliant (though rashly off-putting) she was. I imagine even Prince would abide that 'Nothing Compares 2 U'.

There have been artists I have gotten albums on this project, in which I only knew one song from it. Majority of the time, the album doesn’t do much to impress me, outside of the hit single. For Sinead O’Connor, there is slightly more. I knew one song (take a guess what it is) and her “scandal” of her ripping the picture of the pope. Given the circumstances, I was very intrigued into what I was getting into. But I wasn’t prepared enough. It’s hard to describe what exactly this album is. Part of it is rock, some alternative, some soft tunes. It goes everywhere. But somehow, Sinead makes it all work. Her vocals sound angelic, but with traces of power that adapt to any genre. Seriously, the jump between the calm Irish sounds of Feel So Different to the slight hip-hop of I Am Stretched On Your Grave to the gentle Three Babies. Anytime a song would start and I feel a little disturbed about the direction of a song, Sinead would somehow make it work. And the songs themselves are sublime. From the instrument-less title track to the politically charged Black Boys on Mopeds, the album is chock full of hits. I especially love the Emperor’s New Clothes, which is somehow a very well made rock song, jammed in the middle of this album of all places. Then there’s Nothing Compares 2 U. I “heard” this song before, but I never Heard this song until now. I know it feels like a cop-out to feel moved by the hit single, but this is truly one of the most moving songs of all time. It’s all Sinead’s doing, the whole fucking song. I don’t get emotional over much and this almost got the waterworks flowing. This could have be a case where Nothing Compares 2 U could have easily taken the album over completely. It was the only song I knew from Sinead O’Conner. It happened a lot of times over the course of this project with other artists. But I think I found the exception. Overall, this is as perfect as a 90’s album can get and it will proud hang with the rest of my highest rated albums. Favorite track: Nothing Compares 2 U Other hits: The Emperor’s New Clothes, Feel So Different, Three Babies, Jump in the River, Black Boys on Mopeds, I Do Not Want What I Haven’t Got, The Last Day of Our Acquaintance

Musically, the album is a curious mix of hymnals, ballads, protest songs, and 80s-shoegazer pop. 'Emperor's New Clothes' is one of three with Andy Rourke that are absolutely top-notch indie/shoegaze/dream pop. 'Jump in the River' is the second, and I love Pirroni's guitar work reminiscent of some of his 'Kings of the Wild Frontier' days. It's like a good Jesus and Mary Chain. The final one is 'You Cause as Much Sorrow', Rourke's bass superb in the glorious chorus. Much of it does feel like it overlaps with The Smiths (melody, satire, biting lyrics, great musicianship). The overall production is really well done and restrained. 'Black Boys on Mopeds' could teach Billy Bragg a thing or two - explicit political commentary which doesn't grate in the slightest and is really very moving. Throughout, the vocals sometimes soar, sometimes are breathy, sometimes on the edge of breaking - it really is superb - pre-autotune days where all the human frailties and cracks remain. The album is quite the tour de force.

Fantastic album!!

This is one of my top 10 albums of all time. I love Sinead and this specific album is one of her best. The diversity of songs, the use of strings mixed with drum and bass rhythms. The builds and tension. Then just the pure vocals and lyrics. There isn't a bad or even a just OK song anywhere to be found.

Nothing compares to her.

Love it

Love This.

100/5 stars. Such a great album.

Brilliant

Best Prince cover.

What a courageous and beautiful album. Some songs bring tears to my eyes because they feel so painfully honest. I also love the music on here. Emporer’s New Clothes is one of the greatest personal rock anthems.

Really great. RIP Sinead.

A great album from one of Ireland’s finest. Took me a few listens to fully appreciate it but this album is worth it. Recommended if you need something relaxing: for a long drive, perhaps.

Before listening to this yesterday, I mostly only knew Sinead O’Connor as the butt of jokes when I was a kid in the 90s. Nothing terrible, just that she was the only thing to compare other bald women to. And then she shot back into consciousness when she passed away a couple years ago. Between those two things, I only knowingly heard her cover of Nothing Compares 2 U (thanks mainly to it being sampled in a mashup by Girl Talk). Given that, I had little expectation that I’d enjoy this. I figured she would be respectable but not my thing, much in the way that I falsely assumed the same of Tori Amos. But boy was I wrong. I wouldn’t say this is “my thing” or my taste, but I wouldn’t say the opposite either. I was blown away by the rawness of this. The pure bare emotion dripping from every track. And the aforementioned Prince cover is quite the banger. I don’t really have any critiques for her, just for my assuming ass.

I remember Sinéad O’Connor being a sensation when “Nothing Compares 2 U” came out. I’d never listened to this album, however. O’Connor has a truly wonderfully expressive and beautiful voice. https://open.substack.com/pub/richcain/p/project-1001-i-do-not-want-what-i?r=4ztyq&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web

I cannot believe I missed this one. Squeezed it in today

Amazing, unique voice! Some of the songs would be quite ordinary without her vocal talent. A very influential singer, controversial for all the right reasons.

Une pépite. Rien à ajouter de plus que la voix de Sinead est hypnotique, l'album est presque mystique, il résonne profondément dès la première chanson. Un album éternel qui ne vieillit pas.

One of the best albums written. beautiful, thought provoking and what a voice.

1001 albums that make you long for listening to anything else. Never heard of this guy, can’t believe the size of his catalog. I’ll assume they are similarly dull and amateurish, no way I’m gonna dig deeper.

Somewhat disappointed that "The Lion and the Cobra" didn't make the 1001, to me it's a groundbreaking debut showcasing a raw and emotional and immensely talented songwriter with an incredible voice. 5 stars easy. This is still very good - and her Prince cover just astonishing. She's clearly been given a bigger budget and less control on this album. Some talented musicians contributing and more polished production. I love her singing style - quirky but not contrived. I'm also giving this a borderline 5.

I can't believe I never listened to this legend sooner. A true masterpiece. "Fight the real enemy!"

This is a heartbreaking classic of an album. While Nothing Compares 2 U is the best known song, other tracks have an equal or greater impact with howls of despair and anger, as well as more upbeat and joyful numbers. The only misstep is ‘Black Boys on Mopeds’ which is a clunking protest song about Margaret Thatcher, but it was 1990 so we can probably let this one slide.

Wow. I knew her by name mostly, but never really listened something from her. This is very powerful. Her voice is amazing, the music is simple but moving and goes perfectly with her singing. It somehow reminds me of Tori Amos (and now I guess I am aware of one of Amos' influences). Great discovery.

Impossible to not feel feelings to this album

You cause as much sorrow kind of has cranberries energy. I didn’t know that the cranberries r Irish. Anyways this album is great

Great voice, great songs ... and *that* single

One of my favorites

5 stars - one for each of the stages of grief. A crisp voice that prays, placates, laments and rages, paired with pitch-perfect arrangements that never overpower the lyrics. Such a strong debut album with one of the most incomparable covers of all time. (See what I did there.) Hidden gem: Black Boys on Mopeds. The lyric "Remember what I told you. If they hated me they will hate you" would turn out to be all too prophetic.

Long time fan of Sinead. First time digging into this album. That's the whole point I hear you all say. Faves: The Emporer's New Clothes, Nothing Compares 2 U

I really like an album where each song is different genre experiment, and a lot of these tracks were great! I only knew the big single going in to it, so found every track a pleasant little surprise. Fave tracks - "I Am Stretched On Your Grave" for proto-trip-hop, "Three Babies" for new age ethereal, "Black Boys On Mopeds" for politically conscious folk, "The Last Day Of Our Acquaintance" for breakup song, and of course "Nothing Compares 2 U" is still spine-tingling....

amazing

I've never been a huge Sinéad O'Connor fan, but always respected her as a person. She stood up for her opinions (which were ultimately found to be 100% correct) against the Catholic church to enormous backlash, and then really leaned into them. When she died, I watched the video of her being booed at the Bob Dylan tribute concert. It's hard to believe that THAT crowd, of all crowds, would have done that. Anyway, I think this is the first time I've listened to this album in full. It's a bit dated, and Nothing Compares was really played to death when I was a child, but it is undeniably a brilliant album. Fantastic singing, great production, and very emotional. Three Babies, Emporers New Clothes, and Nothing Compares are all highlights, and there aren't any bad songs on here. Definitely one of the best pop albums of the 90s. 9/10

**Album Review: "I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got" by Sinéad O'Connor** "I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got," released in 1990, is the second studio album by Irish singer Sinéad O'Connor. The album catapulted her to global fame, largely due to its emotional depth, powerful lyrics, and O'Connor's distinct vocal style. This review delves into the various elements that make this album a landmark in contemporary music, analyzing the lyrics, music, production, themes, and its lasting influence. ### Lyrics The lyrical content of "I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got" is intensely personal and introspective, often touching on themes of love, loss, and self-identity. O'Connor's songwriting is raw and honest, with a poetic quality that conveys deep emotional truths. 1. **"Feel So Different"**: The album opens with a spoken word prayer, setting a contemplative tone. The lyrics reflect themes of transformation and self-realization, with lines like "God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change." 2. **"I Am Stretched on Your Grave"**: This song uses a traditional Irish poem set to a modern beat, exploring themes of love and death. The juxtaposition of ancient text and contemporary music underscores the timeless nature of its themes. 3. **"Three Babies"**: Here, O'Connor delves into the pain of loss and the resilience of the human spirit. The lyrics are deeply poignant, revealing a vulnerability that resonates with many listeners. 4. **"The Emperor's New Clothes"**: This track critiques societal norms and personal authenticity. O'Connor's defiance against conforming to expectations is clear in lines like "I will live by my own policies." 5. **"Black Boys on Mopeds"**: A politically charged song addressing social injustice and the failures of the British government. O'Connor's anger and disillusionment are palpable, making it one of the album's most powerful tracks. 6. **"Nothing Compares 2 U"**: The standout hit written by Prince, this song deals with the deep sorrow of lost love. O'Connor's delivery is heart-wrenching, and the lyrics are straightforward yet profoundly affecting. ### Music Musically, the album is diverse, blending various genres and influences. O'Connor's eclectic tastes and willingness to experiment are evident throughout. 1. **Instrumentation**: The album features a mix of traditional instruments and modern synthesizers, creating a unique soundscape. Strings, flutes, and acoustic guitars are woven together with electronic beats, showcasing O'Connor's innovative approach. 2. **Arrangements**: Each track is meticulously arranged to complement the emotional tone of the lyrics. For instance, the sparse instrumentation on "Nothing Compares 2 U" enhances the song's melancholic atmosphere. 3. **Vocal Performance**: O'Connor's voice is a central element, characterized by its range and emotional intensity. Her ability to convey vulnerability and strength simultaneously is a hallmark of the album. 4. **Genre-Blending**: The album traverses rock, pop, folk, and traditional Irish music, reflecting O'Connor's diverse influences. This blending of styles contributes to its unique and timeless appeal. ### Production The production of "I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got" is a testament to O'Connor's vision and the technical expertise of the team behind it. 1. **Producers**: The album was produced by Sinéad O'Connor and Nellee Hooper, with additional production by Chris Birkett. Their collaborative efforts resulted in a polished yet authentic sound. 2. **Sound Quality**: The production quality is high, with a clear and balanced mix. The use of reverb and echo adds depth to the vocal tracks, while the instrumentation is crisp and well-defined. 3. **Innovative Techniques**: The production includes innovative techniques for the time, such as the use of sampling in "I Am Stretched on Your Grave." This track layers a traditional Irish melody over a modern beat, exemplifying the album's fusion of old and new. ### Themes Thematically, "I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got" explores a wide range of subjects, from personal introspection to political commentary. 1. **Self-Discovery and Empowerment**: Many songs deal with themes of self-discovery and personal empowerment. O'Connor's lyrics often reflect her journey towards self-acceptance and autonomy. 2. **Love and Loss**: The album's exploration of love and loss is both profound and universal. Tracks like "Nothing Compares 2 U" and "Three Babies" delve into the complexities of human relationships and the pain of separation. 3. **Social and Political Commentary**: O'Connor does not shy away from addressing social and political issues. "Black Boys on Mopeds" critiques government policies and societal inequalities, highlighting her activism and social awareness. 4. **Spirituality**: There is a strong undercurrent of spirituality throughout the album. The opening track, "Feel So Different," sets the tone with a prayer, and other songs touch on themes of faith and existential reflection. ### Influence The influence of "I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got" extends beyond its immediate commercial success. 1. **Cultural Impact**: The album has had a lasting impact on popular culture. "Nothing Compares 2 U" became an iconic song of the 1990s, and its music video, featuring O'Connor's tear-streaked face, remains one of the most memorable in music history. 2. **Musical Influence**: The album has influenced a wide range of artists across genres. Its blend of traditional and modern elements can be seen in the work of later musicians who seek to bridge different musical worlds. 3. **Social Influence**: O'Connor's outspoken nature and willingness to address controversial issues have inspired other artists to use their platforms for social and political commentary. Her boldness in tackling issues like child abuse and political corruption has paved the way for more open discourse in music. ### Pros and Cons **Pros:** 1. **Emotional Depth**: The album's emotional intensity and honesty resonate deeply with listeners, making it a timeless piece of art. 2. **Vocal Performance**: O'Connor's voice is a powerful instrument, capable of conveying a wide range of emotions with great precision. 3. **Innovative Production**: The production techniques and genre-blending give the album a unique sound that was ahead of its time. 4. **Lyrical Brilliance**: The lyrics are profound and poetic, addressing universal themes with personal insight. 5. **Cultural Relevance**: The album's themes of self-discovery, love, loss, and social justice remain relevant, ensuring its continued impact. **Cons:** 1. **Inconsistent Pace**: The album's pacing can feel uneven at times, with slower, more introspective tracks juxtaposed against more upbeat songs. 2. **Production Choices**: While innovative, some production choices may feel dated to modern listeners, particularly the use of certain synthesizer sounds and sampling techniques. 3. **Intensity**: The emotional intensity of the album may be overwhelming for some listeners, making it challenging to listen to in one sitting. 4. **Commercial Appeal**: While critically acclaimed, the album's raw and unfiltered nature may limit its commercial appeal compared to more polished pop records. ### Conclusion "I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got" stands as a seminal work in Sinéad O'Connor's discography and a landmark album of the 1990s. Its blend of personal introspection, social commentary, and musical innovation has cemented its place in music history. Despite some minor flaws, the album's emotional depth, lyrical brilliance, and cultural impact make it a timeless and influential piece of art. O'Connor's fearless exploration of complex themes and her distinctive voice ensure that this album will continue to resonate with listeners for years to come.

While deeply familiar with this album, I was able to listen with fresh ears and perspective. I still tapped in to the empowerment this album provided me in my youth but I was also deeply moved by the sorrow she tapped in to craft this (she spent 18 months in a Magdalene Laundry at 14 years old--puts that ripped photo of the pope in perspective). The use of strings both in the Irish fiddle manner and more orchestral came through on my back-to-back listens. Every single song is just so goddamn powerful I get why she just blew up when this album came out. So much angst and heartbreak in one album that when I revisit with the lens of history I dare say it hits harder than TTPD Three Babies - her lullaby to heal herself after the loss of three pregnancies Black Boys on Mopeds - powerful protest of racial brutalities in 80s England Nothing Compares 2 U - The best cover of any Prince song Last Day of Our Acquaintance - ouch I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got - what a closer! And the ultimate banger of all time---The Emperor's New Clothes. This album is a 5 but memories of singing this top volume with Jen certainly turn it into an 11.

Brilliant album by this iconic Irish singer. It's hauntingly beautiful in parts and a little upbeat musically in parts. Her voice is lovely and the last track or nearly the last track where she sings with no music at all , it's just her voice is brilliant. Good listen 👍

It has the hits but also is chock full of amazing songs. Hadn’t heard the entire album and grateful to have it recommended.

I went into this fully expecting to hear the title track and ignore pretty much everything else. Turns out I have a few tracks I *really* like off this one. "The Emperor's New Clothes", "Jump in the River", "You Cause As Much Sorrow", "The Last Day of Our Acquaintance"... I mean, I just listed most of the album, didn't I? The media abused her for protesting her abuse. She deserved so much better.

Absolutely hits

Hauntingly beautiful. Incredible diversity in tone between songs without losing consistency. Some of the greatest vocals I think I've ever heard. Every song is incredible

I'd loved the predecessor to this album The Lion And The Cobra, and then the Jump In The River single that followed. When this one came out I was a bit taken aback at first at low key much of it appeared. Over time the power of songs such as Black Boys On Mopeds grew on me. As I type this, it's 9 months since Sinéad O'Connor died. I rarely agree with Morrissey these days, but he was spot on when he said "You praise her now only because it is too late. You hadn't the guts to support her when she was alive and she was looking for you.".

Loves: Three Babies :( Black Boys on Mopeds Nothing Compares 2 U The Last Day of our Acquaintance Notes: The intro to the first song definitely sets a mood, and her voice with the strings hits. This album (so far) is so painful, but she makes it so beautiful, pain and acceptance I’m assuming this album is deeply personal, and I’m totally invested in her story. Black Boys on Mopeds tore me apart. What a powerful political song! Her voice and those chords drew me into that song so much. Nothing Compares 2 U, fr. Instantly one of my favorite songs, all time. The name of the album just clicked with the last song. Chef’s kiss.

A great album. Not quite as good as its predecessor but still. 5 stars. It’s easy to forget just what a great performance she gives. In nothing compares, just listen to the verse about the doctor. And then it builds into the chorus. Magic. And she does this type of thing again and again.

I am a bit stunned and lost for words on the effect her voice has when you sit in a quiet room to listen to it. If you can bear it, and are in the right franme of mind for it: She renders pain beautiful. True art. her broader body of work is crazy varied, I like htis, and even more her jazz torch songs on "Am I not your girl" And on a technical/listenign note: the power fo the album is so strong on bit speakers where it becomes a surpisingly solid orchestral album with a precision that come outs on big speakers. Ominous opening. Top quality, any ratings really ocme to to taste and enjoyment factor. I would not put this on heavy rotation, but for feeling a full emotional range and leaning in, go for it.

Some nice songs, some songs not so easy to listen - but all in all - iconic

Unbelievable voice, truly haunting at times, fantastic album

This remains a great listen. Period. So much intensity in the performance. When Nothing Compares 2 You drives you to tears, don't expect the rest to not affect you. This whole record is about affectation and sadness, sometimes anger. It is versatile in styles, a showcase of O'Connors musical capacities and deeply reflecting on turmoil and trouble. All the introspective - mostly female - singers to come after surely found some of their courage in her(e). Confession of troubled soul and mind. While some artists challenge you with their musical avantgarde and complexity, Sinéad does so with her open wounds. If said song does not affect you - stay away, you might not find anything made for you.

This might be one of my new favorite albums. Every song was great. In all honesty, "Nothing Compares 2 U" is one of the weaker tracks on the album, which says a lot, because it's a great track. What a good album.

I still remember the high expectations and buzz about this album at the time. score in 1990: 9/10 score in 2024: 9/10 (The Lion and The Cobra = 10/10, not generated by the generator so far)

I haven't listened to Sinēad O'Connor besides the Prince cover, and I've always preferred Prince's version so I was absolutely blown away by how much I loved this album. The first album on this list that surprised me and I will absolutely be listening again and again. I wish I had found this as a younger, angstier self. The political anger and tough heartbreak lyrical themes speak to me on an empowered woman level. What a radical person. I loved the more moody and sultry string songs, the 90s super fuzzed guitar songs and the synth songs alike. I wish I had more than 5 stars.

”To say what you feel is to dig your own grave” Raw, powerful and beautiful. Still, one of my favorites of all time. Rip Sinéad.

Amazing album. What is most wonderful- her songs that never made it to the charts are true gems.

Absolutely loved this, what a talent

It's still a beautiful album

Still can't believe we lost Sinéad and Shane in the same year. Ireland says fuck 2023

I listened to it twice. What an amazing album, powerful lyrics with sometimes oxymoronic melodies. Nothing Compares 2 U actually seems a bit out of place on this, but it's good enough on it's own that it doesn't matter. Masterpiece.

Great album. Nothing Compares 2 U is a standout of course. Some other really great tracks.

Amazing!

4.75

first time ive listened to sinead besides nothing compares 2 u and oh mein gott... cried like twice going thru this black boys on mopeds & you cause as much sorrow... aaaaaaaaaaaa

i liked this so much more than i expected to. and not that i didn't expect to enjoy her but omg it is so excellent... maybe it's not a perfect 5 but i'm doing it anyway

I am very sad.

Goddamn, what a great album. Sinead's vocals are truly incredible. Nothing compares 2 U was always a favorite but I am so glad to have finally listened to the rest of this record. RIP Sinead....

This is an amazing album. I've got to be honest, I have always loved 'Nothing Compares 2 U' but never really dug that deep into the rest of Sinead O'Connor's catalog. Listening to this album in whole was great and I was surprised that nearly every song stood out to me on first listen. I will definitely be adding this one to my own library and listen to it more going forward. I've got to give it a 5/5. Standout Tracks: I Am Stretched on Your Grave, Three Babies, The Emperor's New Clothes, Black Boys on Mopeds, Nothing Compares 2 U, Jump in the River, You Cause as Much Sorrow, The Last Day of Our Acquaintance

It‘s been 7 hours and 15 dayys: She made many songs in different genres. I‘m eager to listen more to her songs. personal top3 in no order: Nothing Compares 2 U Feel so Different Jump in the River

One of best albums of the 90s.

Timeless

Great album, emotional and catchy songs and a strong voice

Понравились ирландские мотивы в некоторых песнях, и вообще оказалось разнообразнее, чем ожидала

Love her. RIP Standouts: Nothing Compares 2 U, Feel So Different, Tree Babies, The Emperor's New Clothes, Black Boys on Mopeds, The Last Day of Our Acquaintance, I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got Others: I Am Stretched on Your Grave, Jump in the River, You Cause as Much Sorrow, 4.5

Justice for Sinéad! Amazing voice and timeless artist... one of the best ever. RIP

Classic songs on the album

Excellent. RIP ❤️

Sinead is great. I like her first album a little better but I remember this getting played a lot back then.

I love the tone of her voice it’s just so nice to listen to I really enjoyed the musical composition of her songs Have to say I’ve never listened to her music before now but glad this project got me to listen to her album I think this is one of the most beautiful sounding albums I’ve listened to so far Stand out songs: Feels So Different, Three Babies, Black Boys on Mopeds, Nothing Compares 2 U. R.I.P to a lovely voice

Well this hits as a little sadder now, doesn't it? Rest in peace, Sinead.

I'm walking through the desert And I am not frightened although it's hot I have all that I requested And I do not want what I haven't got I have learned this from my mother See how happy she has made me I will take this road much further Though I know not where it takes me I have water for my journey I have bread and I have wine No longer will I be hungry For the bread of life is mine I saw a navy blue bird Flying way above the sea I walked on and I learned later That this navy blue bird was me I returned a paler blue bird And this is the advice they gave me You must not try to be too pure You must fly closer to the sea So I'm walking through the desert And I am not frightened although it's hot I have all that I requested And I do not want what I haven't got I never listened to this album all the way through before - I initially dismissed Sinead as "too cool for herself" and only really heard Nothing Compares 2U. That was really something, but it wasnt enough to make me listen to everything else. Well, its an excellent album and she was an excellent singer (and human). I'm not surprised, just aware that it was me getting in my own way again. 5/5

Wonderful stuff, which changed the music world in ways we can only see years later - without this I don't think Alanis, Tori Amos or Cranberries have the success they did.

5. Such a great album. Definitely deserves a place on this list!

Verdraaid, wat goed.

Hot damn

I didn't have much appreciation for Sinead back when this album was released and never had I ever listened to it. This was a real treat!

one of the biggest crush of my youth. And this is a very good album.

Amazing

I forgot how much I liked t his. It's so good.

Feel So Different praticamente só vocal, muito bom. Nothing Comparing 2 U é um clássico!!

😯

Rock-pop-folk. Me ha gustado mucho.

Great music. And really deep meanings. I would definitely listen again.

I love this melodramatic record, a lot of soulfullness surprisingly, and even though it is a little cheesy, I was surprised that it did feel quite authentic.

Álbum de pura calma. Canções lentas que, em alguns momentos, lembram mantras e sons de meditação. Cantora irlandesa. Sofreu abusos durante a infância. Acabou de perder seu filho para a depressão. Uma voz doce, mas também rebelde, firme.

Rock-pop-folk. Me ha gustado mucho.

Greats album

Great.

Oh my god. This album. I loved it the first time I heard it and I love it just as much now. I listened to it endlessly in 1990. I used it to test out the first real set of speakers I got. I needed some base. I still have those JBLs. I didn't listen to much of her stuff after this, but this and Lion and the Cobra were everything.

Great album. Stripped down and so good.

This album is surprisingly varied, stylistically. I'm a sucker for Irish-sound, so those tracks were easy. The rest of it had sounds that generally jived with me; it's all in my 90's wheelhouse. I'm giving this one 5 stars, but it's not as strong a 5 as Aretha's.

la musique irlandaise que j'apprécie

Fav: I am stretched on your grave

some bangers

The album is so much more than *that* cover. We have tasteful use of the Funky Drummer loop, Irish folk, straight up rock, cracking bass work from Jah Wobble & Andy Rourke but above all Sinead's voice shines through.

Breakthrough album that I personally believe was one of the key albums that helped usher in the change in music in the 1990s.

deep, spiritual music

Words that come to mind are: Ethereal. Personal. Pretty. Smart. Vulnerable. Evocative. I can't help but respect the artist and the art. I want to spend more time with this one.

Karaktäristisk röst och känsla!

Jäkla nice vibe!

I liked this The final track is superb. Even if the rest of the album was cack (which it's not), it would still be worth 4 stars

Haunting

Better than I thought it was going to be

Sinead's voice alone should earn stars. It's clear and beautiful, and it can be angelic but it can also send a gut-punch of a message. I bought this CD in high school because of "Nothing Compares 2U" and remember being slightly disappointed that the rest of the album wasn't like that however, that's high school naivety. I'm listening to it now as an adult with fresh ears, and recognize that she was pretty dMn special.

Definitely some songs on here that I thought were really interesting. Giving a 4 for vibes.

An excellent record. I love the Prince song of course and the song co-written with Karl Wallinger of World Party and The Waterboys. Sinead's voice soars on this album of course. This is a great record.

634/1001 2026.06.11

Love this album. Favorite tracks: The Emperor's New Clothes, Last Day Of Our Acquaintance,

Muy buen album, aunque la canción de Prince y su video eclipsaron a las demás canciones. Gran voz.

solid 4.0. Composições boas, produção crua e complexa ao mesmo tempo, com performances muito potentes

I enjoyed this and it’s not an album I would of listened to

Oh my God. That was rough. A touching and beautiful masterpiece, but rough. Man, what a voice.

060626 12:24 4

Really innovative.

"These are dangerous days To say what you feel is to make your own grave Remember what I told you: If you were of the world they would love you" Ptm que rola. Grande, un discazo, jamás le habia dado la oportunidad porque no me gusta Nothing compares 2 u. Pero fuera de esa rola, las demás son increíbles. 4.5

Desde la portada intuyes lo que te espera

The album was fine and I liked it fine. Taylor Swift's early pop work is likable and his a good turn of phrase. The difficulty I had with this was when it came out. 2014 was supposed to be my time and I feel like I wasted it, and I don't know what to do with or about that. It's heavy and sometimes I feel so numb about it.

innanzitutto la sua voce è bellissima e penetrante, quindi già quella ti prende e ti porta. poi tutto l’album ha un tono emotivo / introspettivo (e si percepisce molto) mentre è poi stilisticamente vario tra folk, rock, pop. e poi vabbè nothing compares 2 U è una grande canzone (non sapevo l’avesse scritta Prince originariamente) bello bello bello

Great album. Fantastic voice.

7/10… irish pop / mellow / *1990

Genuinely emotive, socially aware pop music. Good stuff!

Another artist/album that i didn't listen to at the time because i was a teenager easily influenced by the very sexist NME/Melody Maker. This is great though, what a talent.

The really difficult lit thing about covering Prince is that you have to put the rest of an album around it. It’s a fantastic effort.

This is great

The goat

An incredibly intense, striking statement that thrives on dramatic sonic dynamic shifts. The sparse, atmospheric instrumentation on tracks like Troy gives her powerful vocal delivery an immense amount of room to breathe. It moves effortlessly between quiet, intimate acoustic folk textures and sweeping, orchestrated art pop arrangements, making for a deeply gripping listen.

Okay, vorne weg: das Album kann gut sein ohne ein zweites Nothing Compares 2U. Und: ich kannte nichts und hatte keine großen Erwartungen. Das ist ganz auf quasi Autobiographie gemacht, die Künstlerin und die Songs wahrscheinlich absichtlich sehr kongruent, und die Themen sind emotional bis traumatisch: You cause as much Sorrow und der Titeltrack sind krasse Abrechnungen mit der verstorbenen, offenbar gewalttätigen Mutter, Last Day of our Acquaintance und fast die ganze A Seite Aufarbeitung gescheiterter Beziehungen, mit ganz viel Bitterkeit und dirty laundry; in three babies und Black Boys on Mopeds geht es zumindest metaphorisch um Mutterschaft. Das ist alles so offensichtlich dass ich es nicht mal googlen musste, dabei maximal auf Drama produziert und gemixt. Schocker: ich mags total. Die schlechten Reime, die Songdynamik die man voraussehen kann, das chorale, sogar den fucking Poem den sie mit Drum Sample vertont haben. Black Boys on Mopeds ist übrigens das beste Lied ever, vielleicht. Ich vertraue mir selbst nicht mehr. Abzug für Enya und die schwächeren Songs, die ich bei allem emotionalem Attachment auch skippe.

First impression: Wow. "England's not the mythical land of Madame George and roses It's the home of police who kill black boys on mopeds" Warum habe ich das vorher noch nie gehört? Auch unabhängig von einer der vermeintlich besten Cover der 90er-Jahre ist das große Kunst, große Stimme und eine tolle Produktion die hier und da ins kitschige und übermäßige zu fallen droht, das aber dann doch nicht tut. Zum Ende hin dann leider gefährlich nah an Roxette. Muss ja aber auch nicht schlecht sein. Find die Abwechslung zwischen Pop-Rock-Songs, Acoustic-Gitarren und Streicher-Sets klasse. Und hab ich die Stimme schon erwähnt? Bin positiv überrascht und danke dieser Liste mal wieder für die Horizonterweiterung.

This was a very good album, with some great singing. Quite sad in parts, but very Irish.

She thinks nothing compares to me ... that's really cool. I like that.

Respect.

(Robert De Niro voice) You’re stretched…on MY grave??! Favorite tracks: The Emperor’s New Clothes, Black Boys on Mopeds, Nothing Compares 2 U, Jump in the River. That four track run is fantastic.

Beautiful voice, and some excellent songs

Solid. 3.5

O álbum me deixou impressionada com a força melódica e letras confessionais o suficiente pra gente entender o que essa obra trás junto do passado pesado da cantora. Entre recusas pra adentrar no padrão da indústria com o cabelo raspado e protestos, Sinead construiu o que chamamos de "obra desconstruida", por ser algo que não somos acostumados a ver e escutar. Sua voz e maneira de cantar me lembrou brevemente Alanis Morissete e Fiona Apple (onde ambas vieram depois), misturando o que as duas tem de melhor, o estilo. Com a faixa "Nothing Compares 2 U" que foi escrita por Prince, onde o próprio ficou em um misto de amor e ódio com o sucesso dela e que teve todo um rolo em volta dessa música interpretada por ambos. Teve mais força e potência com Sinead. As minhas faixas favoritas são "Jump in the River", "You Cause as Much Sorrow", "I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got" (faixa que quase transcendi escutando pois AMO uma acapella, PQP que musica boa), "The Emperor's New Clothes" e a já citada anteriormente "Nothing Compares To You", grande parte do álbum kkkjkkkj. I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got é um disco muito potente e brutal em sua honestidade, o que nos faz pensar que a atmosfera toda é triste, mas o que vi foi só um grito de libertação em forma de arte, que foi muito bem construido.

Gdansk

Dark and beautiful. Powerful and tender. She’s a phenomenal talent, and I love picking up on her Irish influence to pop music.

Such a fascinating and deeply pained individual. I didn’t love every song but I appreciate this for its place in culture and because I like Sinead

Je connaissais Sinéad O'Connor mais je suis bluffé par cet album. De très bons titres avec une belle voix et des paroles qui touchent. Quelques morceaux sortent du lot (en bien) et c'est très agréable à écouter.

I really enjoyed that. I'd never heard this album or anything beyond Sinead O'C's singles. I don't think I would have enjoyed it back in the day but the album is a interesting mix of traditional and contemporary styles. This is the sort of album that I was looking forward to hearing on this project rather than the collected works of Neil Young and Nick Cave...

Wunderbare Stimme und eine einzigartige Frau

Although Sinead O'Connor was done dirty by the media, if I'm completely honest, there is a part of me that's always thought that if she hadn't been such a controversial and charismatic figure, she might have been put in the one-hit wonder file. Anyway, it turns out I've been doing her dirty too, as I liked this album a lot and there's definitely more to it than Nothing Compares 2 U.

Sinead O'Connor's singing is really great but the songs didn't all quite click with me, still good though 3.5*

Love Sinead

This is a beautiful album

I was already a big fan of Nothing Compares 2 U and I was really pleasantly surprised by this album. The first track started off sleepy so I was worried at first that I wouldn’t enjoy the listen and that this would be a One Hit Wonder type of scenario, but luckily that was not the case. Many of the tracks start off from a slow and unassuming place and evolve into something entirely different. Forceful, meditative, singular, at times quiet but never lacking life. I suspect I’ll keep returning to several tracks long after this initial listen. Favorite songs: I Am Stretched On Your Grave, The Emperor’s New Clothes, You Cause As Much Sorrow, The Last Day of Our Acquaintance. Rest in peace Sinéad we miss you so much

Early on in the album I had settled on a 3 rating, but by the end I didn’t expect to enjoy as much as I had.

A stark, beautiful record powered by O’Connor’s raw, tortured vocals. More than 30 years later, those performances still feel unsettlingly intimate and emotionally fearless. It’s a great album—simple in arrangement, devastating in delivery, and impossible to shake.

Lyrically 5/5, musically 4/5, enjoyment 3/5. Nothing compares to you is so good. Black boys on mopeds so good. Emperors new clothes so good. Rest is good if not great. Feeling a solid 4. Rip

Actually this was pretty great. I only knew her one really famous track so so this was really great. Not 5 star but a high value of 4 for me for sure

Ja lkkr

i had never listened to one of her albums... cool that shes kinda like a contemporary folk.. issues songs singer. i like it. shout out ireland and they gotta free northern ireland asap

Wow. Knew the hit, but this whole album is excellent.

Depressingly sweet

8/10 Best songs: Feels So Different, Black Boys on Mopeds, Nothing Compares 2 U, Jump in the River, Last Day of Our Acquaintance When the songs on this album hit, they hit HARD. When they don't hit, they're... fine. Never bad, but maybe occasionally dull. The album is comprised of largely ballads, revolving around Sinead's lovely voice, compelling lyrics, and orchestra backing music (along with guitars and drums of course). The album takes the occasional foray into heavier beats or not-so-timeless 80s and 90s pop music aesthetic, which is never bad but rarely amazing. Overall it's a really impressive album (minus a few clunkers) by a musician who should have been far bigger than she was.

Nothing compares to her cover of Nothing Compares 2U. The rest of the album is not stellar, but OK! 3.7

Det är överlag bra. Gillar rösten och många låtar är grymma, melodiska. Bitvis lite daterat. Men för det mesta inte. Väldigt stämningsfullt, särskilt sista låten. Det här blir jag sugen att lyssna mer på!

Nothing compares håller jag som en av världens bästa låtar och den här skivan håller överlag en riktigt hög nivå. Sineads röst är fantastisk och produktionen är bra och känns för det mesta clean och tidlös. Stark fyra.

Sinead's voice is powerful and emotional. Nothing Compares 2 U is amazing, and listening to the Prince version really solidifies how she made it her own. Others like The Emperor's New Clothes, Black Boys on Mopeds, and Last Day of Our Acquaintance really hit for me too. It's a 5 for it's overall impact, and I only go with a 4 because its not something I'd come back to over and over again for my tastes. But I'm really glad I heard the whole thing and would gladly listen again.

Beautiful music and a beautiful voice flying in the face of a lifetime of grief. While Sarah McLachlan may be the only other name that comparably comes to mind, I can’t think of anyone else that sings quite like Sinead O’Connor. Her voice is a talent that can’t be taught. While “Nothing Compares 2 U” gets its flowers all the time everywhere, I think the previous song “Black Boys On Mopeds” is the most striking. I’ve never heard a protest song sound so pretty and graceful. Easy 4/5

Sinéad O’Connor’s 1990 album still feels startlingly alive. It’s one of those rare albums where emotional nakedness, political clarity, and musical invention all lock together into something that transcends its era. Even more than three decades later, the record sounds like a dispatch from a mind unwilling to compromise—musically, morally, or spiritually. “The Emperor’s New Clothes,” is often remembered for its defiant lyrics, but the real secret weapon is the drumming outro. It’s loose, tumbling, almost impatient—like the rhythm section is trying to outrun the constraints Sinéad is singing about. The groove doesn’t fade so much as it breaks free, underscoring the song’s theme of refusing to be boxed in by public narratives or private expectations. It’s one of the most quietly radical production choices on the album. “Black Boys on Mopeds” remains one of O’Connor’s most devastating political statements. Delivered with a whisper rather than a shout, it indicts state violence, racism, and hypocrisy with a clarity that feels painfully current. The song’s power comes from its restraint: no ornamentation, no melodrama—just a voice, a guitar, and a moral argument that lands harder because it’s sung with sorrow rather than rage. It’s a reminder that O’Connor wasn’t just a pop icon; she was a truth‑teller who refused to soften her message for anyone. The album’s centerpiece, of course, is “Nothing Compares 2 U,” a song that became so culturally dominant it sometimes overshadows the rest of the record. But within the album’s context, it’s not just a breakup ballad—it’s the emotional hinge of a project obsessed with honesty. O’Connor’s vocal performance is almost unbearably intimate, and the sparse arrangement gives her nowhere to hide. The political and personal threads of the album meet here: vulnerability as a form of resistance, grief as a kind of truth‑telling. Its relevance endures because the performance is so unguarded it feels like it could have been recorded yesterday. I am leaning on lower side of the 4/5 line ‑because there a few clunkers in here that I would probably skip such as Jump in the River. That said, the album’s emotional courage, political clarity, and sonic minimalism make it one of the most enduring statements of the early ’90s. It’s not just a classic; it’s a reminder of how powerful a single voice can be when it refuses to be silenced.

Gorgeous sounding music, wonderful voice. Good vibes I find myself having a difficult time following the lyrics. They feel like they're telling a story, but I can't make it out. Nothing Compares 2 You get this right up to 4 star territory. The other songs are good, but tend to blend together and fade into the background.

This album is so cool, with the absolute classic “Nothing compares 2U”, also haven’t heard “I am stretched out on your grave” for a long time, SInead RIP🙏🏼🫶🏽

This album is undoubtedly gorgeous, both lyrically and vocally. I will say that I can understand how, for some, it can be difficult to really get into the somber tone of this album. However, speaking from my own personal enjoyment, I really found this listen cathartic. The themes throughout are sorrowful, yes, but they are delivered in the form of eloquent, beautifully delivered music. It was an excellent break from all of the rock albums I have listened to lately as well, which I appreciated. I really enjoyed this listen.

Pretty solid and emotional!

An excellent album.

Powerful and profound. #johnsCDs

She can convey so much emotion with her voice; it's incredible.

Didn't know what to expect really, but was surprised the journey this one took me on. Three Babies was moving, Emperor's Clothes and Jump in the River interesting. Nothing Compares I feel like I never hear the original. That Night Nurse is now the definitive for me, so cool.

I was unfamiliar with Sinead's work except for the viral moment on SNL. Turns out I sort of knew "Nothing Compares 2 U" because its chorus gets sample on a Girl Talk song (immediately followed by the line "I was gettin' some head - gettin' gettin' some head" which changes the tone a lot). Anyway, it's a good record. Some of the songs sound a little dated now, but that's to be expected for something that came out in 1990. Some tracks also sounded more modern than I expected for 1990 and there's some neat experimentation going on. "I am Stretched On Your Grave" goes so hard with the Irish jig situation going on in the bridge. All in all, this album evokes some heavy feelings, and you can feel the pain of the singer in a lot of it. Not all of the audio kept me hooked, but the emotions conveyed kept me interested.

As I'm listening I really appreciate what she's doing here. The tone shifts, speaking out on social issues she cares about, vocal ability, and instrumentals are great. The strange thing is I feel that something is lacking. At points it feels she's trying something new just to try and it doesn't always land. Good album but this might be what keeps it from 5-stars for me.

This is such a powerful album. For a long period of time I only knew her as the singer of “nothing compares to you” which was the first ever music video I ever saw. That song is still great but somehow I never knew her other songs. Interestingly after the album was over I heard her cover on a Nirvana song and was amazed at her rendition of it.

She was such an interesting artist. There’s a great variety in the songs, so there’s something for everyone.

#284/1001. Quite an album an a document of one era and one artist at her peak, shadowed by the one hit song. Here it makes sense, although many other songs either seem to be leading towards it or sound like cheap copies of it (pick one). She seemed to have quite a lot of ups and downs in her life, and a courage to talk about both her and the world's problems. This album is something I might consider owning and coming back later on. Or maybe it is just because I just came back from Ireland?

This was a slow burn for me. I wasn’t hooked by the opening tracks, and started thinking this album was not really my speed. But then I got to “Black Boys on Mopeds,” which to be really affecting both emotionally and musically. Following that up with what might be the only successful Prince cover I’ve ever heard, she won me over for the rest of the record.

Based on the first track, I expected this to be a melancholy breakup album. I was pretty close, but surprised at how much I enjoyed it. I was familiar with "Nothing Compares 2 U" but had no clue who sang it or where it came from (Prince). I think my favorite track was "The Emporer's New Clothes" but each one kept me engaged and eager to listen on. The closing track was very surprising, but not as off putting as most a cappella tracks are to me.

I had fairly high expectations for this one having listened to some of O’Connor’s most famous songs. This album didn’t quite meet them but is still worth a listen. The middle of the album is probably strongest, featuring the iconic ‘Nothing Compares 2 U’, but also the strong tracks ‘Black Boys on Mopeds’ and ‘Jump in the River’. There’s less variation on other tracks, but still has a great emotional depth to it. Probably a 3.5, but I’ll lean to a 4 this time.

Very soothing voice, political, emotional, aggressively Irish in a very good way. I enjoyed it a lot.

4/5 I felt genuinely sad when this album was over. Felt much shorter than it was. Sinead has a wonderful voice.

Had never heard this album completely used to have my friend listen to just 2 songs on a cassette. Now older Inget this a really great album and senead has an angelical voice for love songs and a raging voice for power songs her range is absurd. Never in my life would I thought Id love this album. Not a 5 because I dont really like 2 songs but otherwise its a gem that all should listen to after 40

Was honestly not looking forward to this one because I was never a big fan of "Nothing Compares 2 U". Then after the first three tracks, I was having flashbacks to the last 2 albums I had (The XX and Elliot Smith) which were both quiet and kind of downbeat albums. But it definitely picked up, and I surprisingly enjoyed this far more than I had anticipated. I can still take it or leave it with "Nothing Compares 2 U", and the a cappella title track tested my patience. Still, this is a very good album.

This isn’t for me, but I feel like I can draw a straight line between this album and all of the women making indie music that I love today.

I spent this album doing stretches on a walk around my work and standing at my desk. While I had heard many good things about Sinéad O'Connor going into this project, the only song I knew was Nothing Compares 2 U, and as luck would have it, that song is present on this album! While I already knew I would love that song, the rest of the album was a nice surprise! A handful of the slower, sparser songs don't grab me as much, but the more energetic songs consistently caught me off-guard in a great way with just how hard the drums went. Every time the percussion kicked in, I couldn't help but nod my head along the entire time. Sinéad's songwriting consists of artful, eloquent prose, which manages to be elegant without feeling pretentious or losing impact. This album is beautiful and captivating, and the final song falls into my favorite niche of songs: simple spoken word / slam poetry acapella vocals in the midst of otherwise conventional albums. I'm glad O'Connor has so much more music for me to dive into later on, because this album was lovely. Highlights: I Am Stretched on Your Grave, The Emperor's New Clothes, Nothing Compares 2 U, You Cause as Much Sorrow, Last Day of Our Acquaintance, I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got

Sinead O'Connor was really treated unfairly. By trying to expose abuses of the Catholic Church, she was a trailblazer but suffered for it. By now it's widely known but she still took the fall as a trouble maker who wouldn't simply smile for the cameras and avoid controversy, like a good pop star. But she absolutely was a pop star, just an outspoken one. The pain and anger she felt is on display in the music, but there's no storage of great ballads and upbeat dance songs. She had a reputation for stirring things up which may have blunted her stardom. But that controversy is part of what made her fearless and great. It's not separate to the music or her. It was part of the art.

Beautiful tortured angelic voice. The songs were poetry. A little deep for a casual listen but fantastically haunted. I wasn’t mature enough for Sinead when she came on the scene. Judging by how she was treated, neither was most of the world. We should have listened, she was right.

I'm familiar with Sinead O'Connor by reputation, but I had never taken the time to listen to her music before. I remember the first time I heard of her someone was criticizing her for tearing up that photo of the Pope, which I thought was an odd thing for this protestant man to be upset about. This album was really good. There are some really cool moments, like in "I Am Stretched On Your Grave" where the song transitions into a traditional style at the very end. That was probably my favorite track on the album, but I found a lot of the rest to be quite beautiful as well - especially "Last Day Of Our Acquaintance." Overall, this is a great album by an artist who seems to get a lot of unearned hate.

What it means to sing with emotion.

Kind of caught between two different modes and I generally preferred the higher energy one, but it's all quite good

Beautiful voice, excellent haterism Song(s) added to my 1001 Bangers playlist: Three Babies, The Emperor’s New Clothes, Black Boys on Mopeds, Nothing Compares 2 U, Jump in the River

really cool, early elements of trip hop in “I Am Stretched on Your Grave"; i think i actually prefer the Prince version of Nothing Compares 2 U

Great album, few songs which were just ok which is why this isn’t a 5. RIP Sinead, sorry you were treated so badly

Bless her. 3 stars for one song alone. Hadnt listened to the rest of the album and it was decent

She is such a legend, hero and bald icon! Paved the way for the angsty guy alt-rock-pop of the mid ‘90s without really reaping any of the benefits bc she was blacklisted for her bravery. This is not as strong song-wise as her debut, but still cuts so deep in its greatest moments. I echo the single tear shedding in the “Nothing Compares 2 U” video when I listen to this beautiful record by a beautiful Irish soul.

Mit dem Hit "Nothing Compares 2 U", der Rest ist gut hörbar, ihre Stimme toll. 4/5

Rock, Pop, 1990 -> 4

4.0 stars. I was genuinely impressed by this album. Going in, I mostly knew Sinéad more for her public persona than her music, so it was refreshing to actually sit with a full record of hers. “Nothing Compares 2 U” is obviously a monster of a song - her voice, the production, and the emotional weight are all incredible — but I made a point to focus on the rest of the album beyond that. Even without fully locking into the lyrics (one downside of the pace of this project), the record really works for me on a sonic level. It’s powerful, confident, and emotionally present without feeling overwrought. Favorite track: The Emperor’s New Clothes

Never heard any of these but the big one. Hey, not bad. Particularly the opener.

thoroughly enjoyed this! wow. had the time to actively listen to the lyrics and was blown away. never listened to a full album of hers prior to this, really love it!

This was a really good album. Lovely voice and a breath of fresh air from the boring stuff I've been getting recently

Top Songs: Feel So Different The Emperor's New Clothes Black Boys on Mopeds Nothing Compares 2 U

This album is very good and Sinead was a badass who truly put her career on the line to speak up about some real shit.

Very good. Nothing Compares to You is an amazing song

oh this is slow so far but it's building okay strings??? guess i could've expected that given the irish name this would actually be solid live SHE'S DEAD??? wait i liked this more than i thought i would too many mouth noises in the last song favorite song: the emperor's new clothes

Cool

Geweldig album, al is niet alles mijn smaak

Me sorprendió bastante. Me hizo acordar un poco al estilo Vocal que tiene Bjork. Más que nada por lo impredecible que suele cantar en algunos casos. Me gusta cuento la gente experimenta con esos instrumentos. Me sorprende la variación Instrumental que recorre todo el disco. Pasando de Hip-Hop a una Acústica de Guitarra.

4.8

You know how sometimes you'll be listening to an album that you think you know from years of experience with it, and it will just suddenly hit you in a completely new way? That's what happened to me with this album this morning! O'Connor seemed like such an omnipresent (and often divisive) figure back when this album came out, that it was nearly about impossible to just LISTEN to it. But after initially cuing it up on YouTube, I just sort of forgot about who it was singing and realized the absolutely terrific artistry here. A great voice tied with spot-on perfect arrangements suddenly had me moved in a way I don't think ever happened for me back in the 90s. "Nothing Compares 2 U" is genius songwriting from Prince coupled with one of the most moving performances I can imagine. I would suggest leaving whatever prejudices you may have concerning this album behind you and just LISTEN. It's exquisite!!

beautiful, thoughtful and melodic.

8.0/10 Don’t think I would have liked this as much as a teenager.. but digging it now

Pleasantly surprised by this album. Had never listened to her stuff until now. Would listen to again 👍