Loveless

Not really my bag

A bit tiring

I really want to like this because, as with Radiohead, it feels “cool” to like this. But I’d be lying to myself if I rated it any higher. Truth be told, I just prefer my music to have more structure. I’m big on drums, baselines, and lyrics, of which this album has none.

This was not what I was expecting from the band name alone. It wasn’t the worst

This band is like the sad, less talented Cranberries. A little too depressing for my tastes, though I can appreciate a lot of it. The last track - Soon - was really cool.

Listened outside on a tinny iPhone speaker and honestly the first 4 songs sounded like white noise. Held it to my ear for “when you sleep” and could pick out some melody. Provisional 2* but I’ll try again with headphones

One thing I decided to do for this project was stop listening to albums I knew would be on the list that would be in my normal rotation. The theory is that the album would eventually be "released" when its turn came around. Just over 400 albums in and my favourite album of all-time finally came up. I'm actually crying as I type this, my nose is running, and my legs are shaking so much I couldn't stand up without falling over. Tears of joy are running down my face after over a year of being parted from this musical masterpiece. When this album first came out, there were some people who returned their copies, as they couldn't believe that they had been recorded correctly. The unique sound made these people believe their copy had somehow been distorted, maybe left in the sun too long, or an accident during pressing. Surely the strange, almost rhythmic changes in tempo and tone were unintended? Over thirty years later, and the sound isn't as ground-breaking as it was in the very early 1990s, but it's still a jarring experience in some ways. The production is as important as any band member here. It sometimes makes me think of a blindfolded tightrope walker navigating a thin rope above a deep precipice. There's times where you think they're going to tumble down and fall, but they somehow manage to keep going. It's not an album you can easily sing along to. I mean, you could sing along, but seeing as nobody really knows the words, it's kind of up to you to come up with them. Anyway, trying to classify this album is difficult, mainly due to how unique it is. Kevin Shields spent long enough producing this album, and has never managed to quite hit the same form, either before or after. There's obvious Velvet Underground influences, and the artists who were influenced by this are too many to list. If I were forced to pick out what I love most about loveless it would be the guitar sound, or maybe the ethereal vocals, or the song structures, or I don't know - maybe just the whole thing? A perfect five star album.

Is this just noise.....really unlistenable.

Shoegaze masterpiece.

Is this a redefinition of what noise should sound like? I don't know... I do know that it is tiresome to listen to... And I gave it a second try, just to see if, somehow, I would all of a sudden see the light, like so many people suggest one will. Consider me blind still...

4/5 - I get it, but it’s a little too…it.

Cool d’album, parfois gossant

Not really for me. 2.5.

Distorted rhythm guitars, the album

Some neat ideas but pretty droney and boring for me.

some ok songs

Different for sure

chaotic good. that's kind of the best way to put it.

En tiedä mitä huumeita pitää nauttia, että tästä tykkää. Tosi laahaavaa ja laiskaa laulamista. Jos joku pitää valita niin sometimes

Not gonna lie, I always thought these were an emo band from the 2000s. Don’t really get the appeal.

No me gusto

could i write poetry to this? n

No hooks, no choruses, just lots of fuzz and waves of sonic bliss. Virtually no one ever mentions "Classic Shoegaze" without including MBV's "Loveless." A true "must listen." It might not be your cup of tea, but you will be a better human for having given it a taste.

3.5. I always mix this band up with my chemical romance

I like the songs where the vocals are mixed to the front. Even when you can't tell what he's saying, it's nice to have a vocal melody to offset the manic guitars.

I'm gonna be a little picky and say that the tracklisting for the A side feels weird to me. but otherwise yeah peak.

Neat stuff!

I remember not liking the other one by them on this list, don't know if it's just a different mood or all that different, but enjoyed this one. Fits very well as working music for me. Will I listen to again: 70%

not really my thing, but its fine

idk what's going on here but maybe i'm just dumb

Boy did I hate this, the production is horrible, every song is a big glob of noise with no separation between the “singer” and the instruments -one big wall of suck, gave me a fucking headache. Sounds like somebody bought a shitload of pedals and effects and never took the time to learn how to operate them. They call this guitar innovation?

Oooh, I liked this. Nice ambient music for my work. 4/5

This tickles my brain in a way I can’t describe. It’s the auditory equivalent of those spinning sand bowls where one hand disturbs and the other hand smooths the sand.

I 'know' this album, but don't think I had ever played it right through before. A 'proper' album, in that it has coherent feel and mood throughout, but also enough variation to keep it interesting. The woozy, muffled sound has been oft-copied, but never beaten. Lots of love for Loveless here.

A heavyweight MUTHA of an album. I adore the mess. I crave the noise. MBV still sound like they are kicking against the pricks, 30 years on.

As someone else had said, I thought these were an emo band and was dreading listening to it. After listening I wish they had been an emo band. It felt a bit like listening to music through a wall of feedback. There MIGHT be a tune there, I can’t tell because of all the noise.

Gave it a fresh listen and I think I get it. I think its brilliant. I think, i Think, I tHinK?

Kind of cool. It get annoying quick and is very repetitive. Original sounding though.

Let me bring you back to 2005. That’s me with the greasy hair and unkempt beard looking just on the respectable side of homeless. I was working a horrible job but reconnecting with my college friends a year after graduation. One of the people I started hanging around with was this girl who was in my 8am French class and who I shared a night of watching Eddie Izzard clips as opposed to writing papers in the computer lab. I didn’t know her too well and thought she was way too cool for me. Turns out this woman had a crush on the greasy haired yours truly - I know, I’m still shocked myself. We started spending more time together, watching movies, record shopping, bar hopping, etc. One night she kisses me and next thing you know we’re making out like 8th graders every chance we get AND what was the soundtrack to that? Yes dear reader - it was Loveless. Now almost 20 years on every time I hear the opening guitar riff I’m transported back, smile and think about my now wife and how everything i have in my life is because she made a move I was too scared to make.

This is great, and when I'm in the right mood can be fabulous.

I quite enjoyed this album the first time I listened to it. However, on further listening the album started to fall flat. I still enjoy it, and will probably continue listening to it. I feel the album sounds a little repetitive and monotone the further it goes on, but maybe I just need to listen more.

Dream pop - noise rock. Tostonazo de ruido sin sentido. Un 1.

No me llega a agradar del todo.

FINALLY SOME GOOD FUCKING FOOD. is this where shoegaze came from

Possibly my favourite Shoegaze album. I can totally understand why people might not be able to get into it, but once you crack the surface you can see the absolute beauty lying under earth. Lyrics don't matter, the vocals are just yet another ethereal sound to add to the dreamscape that is the music. One of the best albums to work to. 4.5*

Not my jam but some enjoyable moments.

This review is dedicated to all of my ex boyfriends!

I enjoyed the fuzzy, noisy sounds of this album. It served as a decent background soundtrack, and I think it would be better if I blasted it loudly. My main complaint is that a lot of the tracks seemed to be playing at different volumes.

Sad fuzzy bliss

It took two years to make this album? You mean it’s supposed to sound this way? If I bought this on cassette I’d bring it back to Sam Goody and say it was warped and unlistenable. Smashing Pumpkins without the oomph. And I just barely like the Pumpkins.

One of my all time favorite albums. Great soundscapes created by drone guitar chord repetition. It is the defining album for the shoegaze genre. It is intense and disorientating.

Interesting when I think of this as the transition from 80's post-punk with signature distortion and dissonance into 90's alt rock like the Cranberries and Smashing Pumpkins. Only Shallow and Come Alone are melodic and listenable but the rest is an earache.

Classic!

Shoegaze is so hit or miss for me. I’m just an old fashion white man what do I know. I know Gen Z eats the sound up, but again another distorted noise slop album I just can’t get into. *had to add a review so my boy doesn’t kill me)

I love this album I love shoegaze and dreampop and this album has become one of my favorites this year. I watch a youtuber who talks alot about zoomer gaze and how early 2000s and late 90s music is influencing Gen Z and I feel like I have been indoctrinated to a new genre of music. There is a statistic that I heard and it is that your music taste from when you were 18 dictates the music you will listen to for the rest of your life. When I was 18 I was listening to Daft Punk and imagine dragons and khalid and I have moved pasted most of them. I could not imagine listening to this type of music 7 years ago. I am just so shocked at this. Regardless my favorite song is sometimes and it reminds me alot of europe cause I heard this album alot. Anyways bye :)

Really hate the vocals, but better than last time I listened to this.

4.4

Some of these songs I knew, but others were new. "Sometimes" really blew me away, first time to hear it. I mean, this is a super inspirational record. Some of the production choices baffle me, but in the end, its peerless. Awesome album.

I was unfamiliar with the term 'shoegaze'. I think I would like it more if they didn't keep playing the same thing over and over and over until I wanted to tear my earbud out. I guess I like my shoegaze in small doses. 3/5

So 90s! Little grungy, surfer Indy rock. Cool!

Probably a 9/10 for me. It's the perfect execution of the genre. Just rock music distilled down to a vibe. In a way, I might not know what any of the songs are about. But I know what they feel like.

The opening of this album made me nervous that I would hate it, but then the album chilled out and grew into itself. Decent chill vibe to listen to during work.

I bought this CD back in the day. It didn't really hook me. I liked it a little better this time.

Shoegaze, noise pop. I mean I could gush about this album forever but I'll post a quote from my good friend moo: "This is one of those rare albums that is a truly singular piece of music, it is an enigma, spawned a zillion imitators and not one of them captured the magic of it." Loveless is beautiful and it's one of those albums I'm very happy to be alive to listen to. Duh, I'll relisten. 5/5

I tried hard to like this many years ago. Didn’t stick. Relistening now, it’s noise to me. Plus one star for sheer passion, drive, creativity, and execution. Nailed it. 3* ‘I only said’ is stellar

It seems like a lot of bands in this list have tried to emulate the sound of this album, but have somehow completely missed the mark and come off as inauthentic. This feels very real and raw and emotional, and at the same time, manages to present an interesting soundscape to go along with it. The overdriven guitars create such a huge sound, and the use of samples in some of the songs lends an eerie tone.

love it

What's this rubbish, someone mumbling-wailing all the time with distorted screeching music in the background like you were dragging chairs on the floor and listening to a bad quality recording of it.

Favourite song - when you sleep

Really good. Couldn't give it as much concentration as I'd like, but very good. It's a very high 3, but it could go 4 or even 5

It was very noisy but mostly ehh. Slowdive is a better shoegaze band imo

### Lyrics: "Loveless" isn't renowned for its lyrical depth. Instead, the lyrics serve more as another instrument, often buried beneath layers of sound. The words themselves are cryptic and abstract, focusing on themes of love, longing, and disconnection. They contribute to the album's dreamlike atmosphere rather than conveying explicit narratives. Tracks like "Only Shallow" and "Sometimes" showcase this approach, where the words become part of the sonic tapestry rather than the focal point. ### Music: The music of "Loveless" is where My Bloody Valentine truly shines. The band's signature sound is characterized by layers of heavily distorted guitars, intricate drum patterns, and ethereal vocals. The interplay between the instruments creates a mesmerizing wall of sound that envelops the listener. Tracks like "To Here Knows When" and "Soon" exemplify this sonic landscape, where melodies ebb and flow like waves, drawing the listener into a trance-like state. ### Production: Kevin Shields' production on "Loveless" is nothing short of revolutionary. The album is a masterclass in sonic experimentation, with Shields pushing the boundaries of what was possible in the studio. Heavily reliant on techniques like reverse reverb, tremolo manipulation, and extensive layering, the production creates a sense of otherworldliness that is unparalleled. Every sound is meticulously crafted, from the shimmering guitars to the thunderous drums, resulting in a sonic experience that is both dense and immersive. ### Themes: Thematically, "Loveless" explores the complexities of love and human connection. The album captures the tumultuous emotions of romantic relationships, from the dizzying highs to the crushing lows. Themes of longing, desire, and vulnerability permeate the music, creating an atmosphere of intimacy and introspection. While the lyrics may be cryptic, the emotions they evoke are universally relatable, resonating with listeners on a deeply personal level. ### Influence: "Loveless" has had a profound influence on the alternative rock and shoegaze genres, as well as music as a whole. Its innovative approach to production and sound manipulation paved the way for countless bands to experiment with texture and atmosphere. The album's impact can be heard in the work of artists ranging from Radiohead to The Smashing Pumpkins, attesting to its enduring legacy. "Loveless" remains a touchstone for musicians seeking to push the boundaries of what is possible in the realm of sonic exploration. ### Pros: 1. Innovative production techniques that create a unique sonic landscape. 2. Captivating melodies and intricate arrangements that draw the listener in. 3. Universally relatable themes of love and longing. 4. Profound influence on subsequent generations of musicians. 5. Immersive listening experience that rewards repeated listens. ### Cons: 1. Lack of lyrical clarity may alienate some listeners seeking more straightforward storytelling. 2. Dense production can be overwhelming for those unaccustomed to the shoegaze genre. 3. Limited sonic palette may feel repetitive to some listeners over the course of the album. 4. High expectations set by the album's reputation may lead to disappointment for some listeners. In conclusion, "Loveless" is a landmark album that transcends its shoegaze roots to become a timeless masterpiece. With its innovative production, captivating melodies, and universal themes, it continues to captivate listeners and inspire musicians decades after its release. While it may not be without its flaws, its influence and impact on the music world are undeniable, cementing its status as one of the greatest albums of all time.

I feel like I should like this band but it just doesn't really do anything for me

Ho boy…don’t really know how to handle this. I’ve given it a shot before but didn’t like it but that was years ago. This is truly an example of a work of art I can appreciate and fully understand why others love and appreciate, but my god is it not for me. I just can’t get past the vocals and the noise and the lack of anything that sticks. I listened to the whole album and I don’t know if I could point you to a song or moment that stood out and stuck with me. I WANT to like this but I just don’t.

I listened like three times and I still don't remember a thing

Let this play on a whim about half a year ago, and while I very much liked it at the time, I could tell I wasn't totally prepared for it. It's not really an album you just put on casually, but something you really have to focus on, and when I knew I had some blind spots within the album, I left my true feelings for whenever it would appear randomly again, and here we are. My thoughts are still relatively similar, with a strange amount of focus being necessary to gather the tranquil melodies from the noises overlaying the entirety of the album, and if you let it slip into the background, you're bound to miss some great moments. This time I was prepared, however, and made sure to give a listen to every guitar strum, every dreamy, synth-y riff, and Hell, I even think I caught a lyric or two! All of this leads the listener to finally get launched into the same galaxy as the band, to be on their wavelength, and to see the beauty in the messy. Sure, it scratches the parts of my brain that makes me happy, but it also is oddly is crystal clear once you start accepting your fate and embrace the bliss pouring out of every chord. It may not sound it at times due to the noise, but this is a very joyful album, melancholic at its most downer moments, and when you ease into that same joy, you come out just willing to hover alongside the songs, and that focus you tried so hard to retain melts away, and you just ooze into each and every track. While not every song is equal here, all of them strive for the same powerful wave of emotion to be swept over the listener, and it pulls that off in strides. You may not know where you are, what you're doing, or what's being said, but you know that you're loved, and in somewhere safe, despite its scary exterior, this can only be described as cosy, as if a direct opposition of the coldness of the 80s, and it nails that too. Its the perfect album for what it sets out to do, and while it may not be the average day listening sort of album, this album will be there for you when you need it, and I find it, that being Loveless, extremely lovely.

Shoegaze may be one of my sweetheart niche subgenres, but this is a perfect album. You can feel the heart-in-sleeve emotions coming out of the sonic landscapes this album provides. "Sometimes" and "When You Sleep" are one of the greatest songs in recorded music history, period.

Perfectly okay, but very much a put-it-on-in-the-background thing.

Noisy but quite good

Music that’s on its face difficult to listen to. Ok, mbv, you win. You are difficult. A few songs less difficult than others. But still, there are like a thousand other albums to listen to.

Like cycling in third gear through fog with sunglasses on.

This has a lot of the sonic elements that I like in some later bands but here it seeems muddy, ill-defined and tiresome. I feel like mbv must have influenced the Smashing Pumpkins.

I'll have to take whoever suggested this album's word that this is any good. It was something of an endurance test to get through the entire thing — which I did. But I think I might have enjoyed 20% of it. The other 80%... WTF? I mean, seriously, what's the point? I guess it's good I made it to the end, as the last song was probably my fave. I thought Spotify had started another album.

Man, this album blew me away back when I was a senior in college. And I still love it, though maybe less so. If i'm being objective this might be a 4 star album. The production is a little wanting, I think—though it really shines if you have a good set of headphones. I can see why people don't connect with it these days, but this album was a massive influence on me: that combination of loud, distorted guitars and dreamy voices and wavy tremolo work, just seemed like the future of rock. And for that it gets the full 5 stars. So glad I got to see them live in 93 even though my hearing didn't recover for 3 days.

While I still find this band challenging, this album was a little so. But still..

My heart sank at another MBV album, but either I'm softening to them or this one is better. A bit more melody, some nicer vocals and this passed the time. Still took much industrial background scuzz for me but a step up.

A great album , really loud , but all songs are really similar to each others so maybe an entire album is too Much.

altern., Punk, 1991 ->1

Shoegaze is just about the lowest rated genre on the 1001 and albums like this are probably part of that - for a casual listener this is just a wall of noise. I'm not a casual listener though, and this is my bag baby. Kevin Shields is doing things here on the guitar that no-one had done before. It's a captivating sound with the reverse reverb especially when played (as they did) at colon curdling volume.

An album doesn't get much better than this. Perfection through and through.

I did not hate this

I have tried for years to get into this record. I’ve listened to it so many times, in a variety of situations. I’ve been sober, and I’ve been under the influence of all the drugs I’m comfortable taking. I’ve listened to it sick with a fever, and on the elliptical at the gym. I’ve listened to it driving home at 3am, and during my commute on a normal Tuesday morning. All my friends have told me why I should adore this album, and so have all the critics and online posters. I know all about the innovations to guitar playing (trust me, I have ears), and I know why they’re an important band. I’ve heard gorgeous stripped-back covers and intriguing reinterpretations. I’ve heard these songs in every day life too, on TikTok slideshows and played through the speakers of an art school house party. I first picked up this CD when I was 15 and listened to it on repeat once I got my driving permit, trying to figure out both the rules of the road and this record. I picked it up because I knew it was important and innovative and I needed to get it and get into it. 15 years later, I’m past getting into it. I’m still just trying to get it at all! I know there’s hooks and pop songs buried beneath, and I know why those elements are buried under layers of fuzz and abstraction, and I get that half of what makes this important is the fact that it buries everything. And I enjoy a few songs, especially the ones where the hooks are right there, hard to miss. But for the most part, even when I see the hooks beneath an ocean of distortion, even if they’re not necessarily 10,000 leagues under the fuzz, I’m not really sure if I even *like* most these songs. I like some, and really like one or two, but it’s not enough to validate how many times I’ve forced myself through this in hopes that it would finally click. And tonight, 15 years in, I was hoping it would finally click. And once again, after a sincere and honest try, I walk away with the same conclusion: Loveless is okay, and I get why it matters, but it is not for me at all. I don’t loathe it, and I’m glad it exists, but I am over trying to force myself to love this. I would never in a million years put this album on for my personal enjoyment, and I’m mature enough to finally admit that liking something because everyone else says you “have to” is dumb. I don’t personally enjoy Loveless, I would never revisit this for pleasure, and I’m done trying.

No.

After officially trying to get into this for 25 years I guess I quit. I love noisy music, I love pop music, I love many of the artists who were clearly inspired by this, I just don’t love this. “When You Sleep” and “Only Shallow” are exceptions, though. And actually, maybe in another 25 years it’ll click, so I guess I don’t quit, after all.

Masterpiece

I never actually listened to My Bloody Valentine thinking I'd hate it. I was right.

only shallow - not my vibe, love the outro. the vocals are so quiet... loomer - feels like a part II to the previous song, its ok, wouldn't listen again touched - no to here knows when - Why can i not hear them sing? don't like the instrumentals SCREAMING in this song. Wanted this song to be over when you sleep - I like the instrumentals a lot more on this song, but I can't even hear what they're saying I only said - this is by far the best on the album so far. I like the instrumentation: the drums, the flute type of thing and the guitar. I like the quiet singing on this song.... idk why I don't with the other ones. come in alone - the songs are slowly growing on me. I don't hate to hear the quiet voice now. This song is not bad. sometimes - I don't like it blown a wish - idk what you want - the album gets boring for me soon - this is good, but I got tired and didn't really pay attention. I think this and 'I only said' are the best Overal thought: this album is not my vibe, but the more I listened to it the more I liked it. All of the songs have a singular vibe: loud instrumental and quiet vocals. I didn't really enjoy that tbf. The last three songs I didn't really listen with attention but the overal vibe was good. Ranking: 2/5

The contrast between forcing me to listen to Skepta yesterday to giving me one of the greatest albums of all time the next day is poetic. The majority of the population are more then happy to listen to hit albums where all the songs have standard structure and just fit the bill of being a good song. And I am no stranger to it, Appetite for Destruction and Hybrid Theory are 2 albums where there is just constant good rock songs that fit a formula and are both in my top 10 of all time. But albums like this are where music peaks. Shoegaze had been around for a short amount of time by this point still finding its footing before this album came around and laid down the image for everyone. I genuinely believe that Kevin Shields is one of, if not the greatest guitar player ever. Maybe not in a traditional manner but this album is carried how mesmerising the sounds he makes with that thing are and when you just sit down and listen to this album it is just one of the greatest feelings. It wasn't just on the album too, MBV's live events are some of the most unique ever and although many would hate listening to a wall of noise before every gig it created a one of a kind experience for people, in such a huge industry to do what they did is incredible. I do think it is the face of Shoegaze even if it isn't my favourite album they are all so close up there. The genre is art, there is just something so beautiful about the noise that is hard to explain to anyone and I just have to except not everyone will like it. People will always complain that not every song hits like a single, but for me an amazing album needs these slow atmospheric down parts for the high points to really hit, anyone listening to this will experience it when "when you sleep" comes in it is just so incredible. And rock snobs love Pink Floyd but The Dark Side of the Moon only has maybe 3 proper songs and it is considering one of the best albums of all time (rightfully so) because of how amazing those high points are, you don't get those without the build up. Shoegaze will forever be my favourite genre and I hope that Slowdive, Have a Nice Life and Cocteau Twins are on here because they all influenced and changed music perception in it's own right and if Skepta can be on here then they better be. Stand out songs: When You Sleep What You Want Soon

My mate Andy has been trying to get me into this for ages, but "No", I said. "Its production is too complex for my delicate ears", I said. Then it finally appeared on this list, and I was forced to listen to it properly. And I'm so glad that I did, because this is an excellent record. I should have listened to Andy all along and not have been deterred by the huge 'wall of sound' production. Favourite tracks: only shallow, touched (which sounds like it used the SNES SPC700 soundchip), when you sleep, i only said, soon.

Always heard good things about MBV. Didn't realize how many of their songs I knew.

I had really listened to them before, it sounds like Smashing Pumpkins were heavily influenced by MBV. Nice grooves

Just not sure why this band is on this list. And I know there’s one more from them which makes no sense to me. Could barely distinguish on a number of songs that there was actual singing going on. Just a lot of noise / too much noise over what might be decent songs. The last song, which I think was an actual instrumental, was probably my favorite.

Horrible

Meh

I have a hard time getting into a lot of shoegaze. There’s a lot about it that I like, but the droning and wall of sound can be hard to listen to sometimes. MBV is legendary, but I’ve never really listened to them until this. At first I listened to it while in the car but felt like I couldn’t hear a lot of the music over the highway noise. Tried to listen to it again at home and turns out I really wasn’t missing all that much. A lot of it is just genuinely noise. There’s some cool stuff here. The more dream pop tracks remind me of bands like Cocteau Twins, Smashing Pumpkins, and even The Cardigans. But man, some of the songs get super repetitive and those droning, distorted guitars start to sound like bagpipes and vacuum cleaners. To Here Knows When kind of sounds like the distortion that would happen just before your stereo or Walkman ate your cassette tape. I’ll probably give this one another listen at some point to see if it grows on me, but for now it’s a low 3/5.

My second MBV album, and still not impressed.

Much better than their 2013 album. Not quite my taste. Some songs hit for me, some miss. I can see some nerds talking about how MBV is their favourite band. And it somehow has me confused.

Not sure how to rate this - I didn't like it at first but it grew on me. Wouldn't listen to any tracks again individually but the overall vibe of the album is nice

Yep. I get it now. I knew this was shoegaze and was expecting a very mellow tone throughout. Was happily surprised within the first second! The opener was like Sonic Youth meets Psychedelic Furs with Bjork on vocals. That blend of gritty, unkempt, feedback-riddled instrumentation and soft, mumbled vocals was just as captivating throughout the rest of the album. God, I love this website.

shoe gaze

Nice

It was surprisingly not bad. Probably not going to seek it out again, but would definitely listen to it.

Nearly every song is buried in a layer or two of distortion.

Not awful, but not inspiring.

This is a bit better than just noise. Very 90s. Might’ve liked it then but not now. After a while just kinda samey and boring.

Shoegaze isn't for me but this felt like it was more about sound effects than anything else.

only shallow is a fantastic track, the rest of the album can’t match those highs. I feel I say this too much, but I can’t imagine listening to this in ‘91 and not been blown away, as if I’d just seen a new colour. The above was my original thoughts, but that rating is too low as while Only Shallow is a n all time great track the rest is well worthy of a 4 at least.

This was an oversight for me. Kicking myself for not listening to it sooner. Dream pop with heavy distorted guitars is basically precision engineered to hit all my buttons

My Bloody Valentine - loveless Shoegaze at it's finest. Second album by MBV. It took 2 years, 19 different studios, and £250,000 (equivalent to £480,000 in 2021) to complete the album. It took such a toll on the band that they couldn't create a follow up album and broke up in 1997. However, they returned in 2013 and released a final album called m b v. This was my first experience with My Bloody Valentine and I really enjoyed this album. 4/5

I dunno, shoegaze just seems like wanting to put all the paint everywhere on a canvas. Big feeling, big sound, but everything is washed out in the noise.

I know this is a beloved album, but do they really Iove it or are they just trying to look cool? There certainly is a beauty to the distortion/wall of sound feel to it but 50 minutes of it is too much for me. I’d like to understand at least a couple words or on some songs even melody of some kind. Maybe if I was on the right drugs this album would be life changing but sober on the drive to work it’s a concept that doesn’t work for me.

1.0 Getting to Elbow level of suckiness. It sounded like I had half the headphone jack plugged into my disc man. I understand how this could a ground breaking guitar album and I could appreciate that, but the de-tuning sounded out-of tune. Dont even get me started on the drums. If your trying to create some sort of hazy shoegaze dreamspace, maybe dont throw in the same simple and jarring drum fill every two bars.

Every My Bloody Valentine album on this list has sounded strange and new and foreign but also beautiful. It sounds as if aliens heard alt-rock and then tried to make music like the humans do. The other day, after listening to the first Jesus and Mary Chain album, I noted that their songs are buried under so much distortion that it can be hard to hear the actual songs. My Bloody Valentine also employ a ton of feedback and distortion but I’m always able to hear the music underneath the noise. And the noisy elements actually add emotion and tension to the songs.

Dang this is like THE shoegaze band / record. It's funny listening to this album after not hearing it for years and realizing how thin the mix actually is. The drums really have no punch or life in them. I wonder if that's because it usually works against you in music production when you overload a track with sounds and layers? Amazing album cover. It's so zoomed in yet you can get a lot of emotion from it, which I really like. If you put this album cover in a field that is hundreds and hundreds of feet away I would see the pink and say "oh yea that's Loveless". It's a great listen and no doubt super influential. For me, it's short of a 5. It's really hard to rate for me because if it came out today, it wouldn't be that wildly different and experimental and interesting enough for me to love it and listen to it all the time. But of course, would this album be able to be released today if this type of album didn't come out way back in 1991? Without getting into time travel and alternate universes, I wonder if another band would have taken up the reigns of this much loved sub genre of music? Or would it be different? Or not yet as explored? It's a modern classic, and I should like it more than I do.

Very noisy. Sounds a bit like early 90s US northwest music.

# Playlist track - soon # Notes - MBV, again? I just listened to [[My Bloody Valentine, m b v]] a few weeks ago. - It feels as you're listening to the album through defective speakers. - I get that the full, noisy sound is intentional and it's supposed to evoke some kind of feeling, but that doesn't work for me. - The grand exception here is "soon". It just works so much better. Maybe it's for this weird pauses in the main ultra distorted guitar sound for the weird experimental violin-ish guitars. +1 star

Always thought it was a bit emperor's new clothes-y, but after a few listens yesterday appreciated the credit it receives

I really liked this. I haven't looked at other reviews but I can probably guess what half of the 'mericans on here are saying about it. Ha

Thoughts before listening: This is my third MBV album on this list, and I've been pretty underwhelmed by the other ones. I know that Loveless gets massive praise from music journalists, but I've never really listened to it. I'm excited to hear a classic, but based on their other albums I'm not over optimistic that I'll enjoy it. Review: Well right out the gate I really like "Only Shallow", which is a song I've heard before. The massive wall of sound guitar with ethereal female vocals is a great sound that would go on to be highly influential for the 90s alt-rock to come. The second song however is back to what I have disliked about the other albums: structureless, droney songs that sound like incomplete demos. That sound permeates the rest of the album with only a handful of songs actually adding melody and structure to the guitar noise. I'll give this 3-stars but in general, I don't get the hype for MBV...they certainly don't need 3 albums on this list.

Not a fan of noise upfront and vocals in the back.

Another timeless classic that sounds like nothing else. There’s almost no mistaking a song off of Loveless. For my ears, Loveless is an album that almost must be listened to beginning to end to appreciate it. Perhaps the one exception is the song I Only Said, which I’m surprised to see is the 7th most listened to song on the album on Spotify. To me this song is sublime and easily the top track on the album.

Shades of something good, clearly was an influential album but subjects you to walls of noise and repetition but not in a catchy or pleasant way. Im sure it was great to wallow to of you were an angsty gen x teen back in the day.

What a fucking annoying album

After 2 shoegaze albums in a row - I can see why I've never been into this genre, it sounded a bit like tinnitus. I would change the name of the band to 'my bloody ears'

More lo fi and chill than I thought. Liked it and the radio that came on after

My Bloody Valentine - My bloody hell that was a difficult listen! I'm afraid the whole album is just a droning noise. I should like this as I like the Velvet Underground, etc., but this was just painful :(

Surprisingly easy listening

Who would have thought that a jazzmaster could make that much noise? Seriously though it sounded like nothing else I'd ever heard at the time, I'll always have a soft spot for it.

The production on this album was really cool, and I'm gonna give it an extra point for the jazzmaster on the cover

No me llega a agradar del todo.

Better than I expected.

This one starts out fine, then takes a deep dive almost literally, since the mix on almost all of the tracks seems to be on the bottom of the ocean. I don’t get the why of it all, you can only hear a distorted guitar playing 4 power chords in loop, with faint voices (unintelligible lyrics, btw) in the background

One of the most important indie albums ever

Not my thing

1.5 The first few tracks were a true test of my patience. The second two thirds was better, but not by much. It felt like weirdly discordant electronica and not at all my style. Not as unpleasant as Minor Threat though.

and a half

A truly spectacular introduction to an entire new world of sound. If you're like me, this album will certainly reward you upon repeat listens. I first discovered this back in the glory days of high school, and it wasn't for me. Then I heard it again years later, then years later, and each time it became more and more magical. This is an inspirational masterpiece that has driven so many ideas for my own music, and I have to thank it for that.

I don’t think we can be friends if this album doesn’t make you levitate.

Quite disharmonic Alternative.

Nicht mein Geschmack.

What a perfect album for Valentine's Day. My Sleepy Valentine definitely was not what I thought it was. I was under the impression that there were killer guitar solos. I honestly haven't heard anything from this band, at least not to my knowledge. I always thought they were more thrashy and heavy... I'm trying to remember why I thought this, and where I got this misinformation... This isn't an awful record. As it went on, I could hear where other artists have taken influence from. Smashing Pumpkins, How To Destroy Angels, share that haunting vocal style that has to be taken from this band. The shoegazy music is heard in other bands like Mogwai or Lush. I didn't hate this album but it wasn't amazing. Shoegaze isn't really my genre, but I do like aspects of it. I was wrongfully hoping for something more upbeat and heavy... But all I got was sleepy and stuck in a daze.

Baby’s beginners guide to shoegaze. Not my fav from the genre but so formidable in their own right, a classic.

my blood phobia used to be so bad i couldnt listen to this band without gagging but im built different now cant speak to the artistic merit bc im doing a very preliminary listen + i get ravenous about shoegaze during winter so im biased but. ohhhhjhhhh its gonna be in rotation from now on for sure

I avoided listening to My Bloody Valentine for many years so I'm pleased to discover that this album is really really good. Love the last track.

Just not for me

nah. 2 stars.

An album that shaped the genre of shoegaze

There is something grainy about this that will speak to any kid who grew up in the 90s. Perfect for a late night walk when you want to be feel like the protagonist of an indie drama. Has a bit of radiohead in it. Favorite track was blown a wish

⭐️⭐️ it was ok - I made it through the album

Not for me

Ainda não superei totalmente o preconceito da atitude da banda associada a pretensão. Mas é inegável a qualidade da construção sonora das guitarras e a beleza do vocal feminino.

Boh si dai

Initialt lite jobbigt sound... Smashing pumpkins gör det bättre. "Mamma, kan vi köpa smashing pumpkins?" "Vi har smashing pumpkins hemma" *Sätter på ny bloody valentine* Totalt blev det rätt trist. Svårt att skilja låtarna år. Nej, inget vidare. Som en lång låt

Uppskattade några enskilda låtar på denna, men soundet blir lite väl tradigt under ett helt album för att det ska bli högre betyg.

It made me feel old because my first reaction was, "I can't understand what they are saying." But overall I enjoyed the music, beat tune and dissonance, which seems to be what the music is really about.

So this is Shoegaze music? So washy. So dreamy. It's OK. I prefer the songs with beats. Especially liked Only Shallow, When You Sleep, and Soon.

Loveless is all about guitar texture to attain enlightened bliss. I’ve been listening to it for over 20 years and it does take a few spins to hear and enjoy the deeply embedded harmonies and melodies. It’s also one of those records that every pretentious music critic holds up and loudly declares to be the epitome of genius, art and influence, when in reality, it is good art, subject to each persons valid personal opinion. It is definitely not for everyone. Side 1 is interesting with When You Sleep being the clear standout. Side 2 is unstoppable with stone cold classics like Sometimes, Come In Alone, and Soon. All in all, I definitely dig it, but there were better albums made in the 90’s.

Despite the shoe-gazing vibe, I can appreciate what they’re doing here, and their contributions/influence in this genre. They clearly influenced the Smashing Pumpkins. Feels more like a meditative/experimental journey than a musical destination. I wish I could understand ANY of the words they’re saying, but pretty solid nonetheless.

Did not like

A landmark shoegaze album. Marked by turmoil, overspending and a seemingly endless number of different recordings studios to get the sound right. But man, 'loveless' does sound otherworldly.

Almost

Not a fan....all I can say. Valentine does not equal warm and cozy!!!!

Meh, it’s music

Hmmm , I’m 5 tracks into this album and finally there’s a “song” everything leading up to it sounded like trying to find music on AM radio 📻 “If I was 15 again I might like it” -Raisa If I was into heroin I’d definitely listen to this album

wow, a whole album of static reverb. I found this difficult to have running in the background as I worked or did other things. It's grating. I had to shut it down mid album.

Didn’t click. I fear it will when I am most vulnerable.

Not a fan

I did not like it much though I thought I might.

only shallow- noisessss. um yeah theres not a lot going on. i dont liek the singing parts i like the weird distorted riff. 6 loomer- not feeling it. 4 touched- weird noises. i liek the distorted violins. 7 to here knows when- like tomodachi life shit. dont ask. L. 4 when you sleep- L too. dont care. 4 i only said- 3 come in alone- no more sometimes-

At some point this is just noise. Good base for songs, and I can see how this inspired a lot of the alternative acts yet to come.

Reminds me of a mashup between the Breeders, Seether, and Smashing pumpings. A lot of repetitive droning parts in many songs that made me pretty much zone out.

I liked that other album on this list by this band more. 'Loveless' has some nice musical ideas but it really feels all a bit messy and unclear - not surprising given the chaotic history of making that album.

Not for me.

Classic shoegaze record, one of the best.

Dreamy grunge. Liked it alot

Bloody awful. The turntable needle dragging sound made my ears bleed.

Not my taste

- Own this on vinyl - Easily the best shoegaze album I've ever heard - Great start to finish - Feel like I've given out too many 5* recently but this has to be a 5 - Fav songs: When You Sleep, Sometimes, Only Shallow

Some of the tracks are interestesing.

Classic init

I wish all vacuum cleaners sounded this sexy

I think this is one of the greatest albums of the last 30 years. It grows and grows and even though it’s been a favourite of mine since by 20s, it still sounds new. I still dont really get how they can sound so big and so intricate at the same time. They mix shoegaze / dream pop with their ‘wall of sound’ style and it just works. Everything from the guitars to their vocals just fits together perfectly. My only criticism is that they play this so loud live that it really does knack you. A small price to pay!

Best mbv album so far, the actual music to this was great. Seemed to be more riff driven, reminded me of smashing pumpkins. I really don't like the vocals, must just be a personal choice but it doesn't work for me at all. Loads of these songs would be so good if the singing matched the power of the guitar. That's not what they are trying to do I guess, and there are arguably enough bands doing big rock numbers so it's probably refreshing to most that these are doing something different. Stops me from being a proper fan though. 3.5.

My patience with this has gone entirely.

He put three of their album on this list, wtf was he thinking!? This is just as bad as their other albums, couldn't finish it.

This is the third MBV we've had here and the highest rated.... Lots of distortion again! I actually think I preferred their first album we had, "isn't anything" to this. But like the others, I don't dislike it, I just find it hard to really pick anything out as the amount of distortion makes it all feel very much of the same. That being said, "when you sleep" was the best track. Not sold on the whole shoegaze thing

Well crafted sonic drones inserted with ethereal vocals and poppy melodies. A Post-Punk delight.

Det här är mest pretentiöst dravel. Dessutom andra plattan jag får med dem. Klarar sig nätt och jämnt från bottenbetyg.

Not too bad

The only thing bloody about this is my ears - one of their neighbors at the time of them writing this probably Honestly a cool listen. I personally wish the mixing favored the voices a little more - but I think they knew what they were doing and obviously didn't want that vibe. Cool instrumentation - especially for 1991 (actually idk I wasn't there). I feel like the ideal place to listen to this is at a beach/park on a summer day with your friends (+/- being high) Standouts in no particular order: - Blown a wish, soon, when you sleep, sometimes

First of all I love how this album opens. Only Shallow is a banger. Overall it's a pretty cool album although I found myself getting a bit bored a few times. I can appreciate the heavy pedal effects, the reverb vocals, and weird noises. I also usually like when songs are drawn out but in this album it got a little boring at times because it wasn’t changing much. From a historical perspective, I cannot believe it cost as much money as it did to produce this album.

This album sounds like the album cover looks. Fuzzy but clear, vibrant but hazy. The songs progress in a moving and flowing forward direction. The lyrics and vocals feel almost adjacent to death metal, where they don't really matter, they just add to the vibe and composition. Some songs put you on edge, where others take you a drive. If I was to knock anything about this record, it would be that one song doesn't sound much different than the last. It's like one long song, which I believe was intentional. However, most of the transitions are seamless. 'Only Shallow' > 'Loomer' ; 'Touched' > 'To Here Knows When.' It all makes sense, and it all flows together into a wonderful moody mess of an album. This was obvious a pivotal moment for post punk indie to cross into noise rock alternative. There's no Smashing Pumpkins without this moving vibey blurb of static and feeling.

Brute Noise 🫸😵‍💫🫷

I like the consistent vibe of the album, and I think it is a good choice for many situations, like driving in the rain. I just listened to it at work, and didn't particularly enjoy it, also because of the tone. I don't want to just hand out fours, so I'll go with three, but I'm glad I listened to it.

Really noisy stuff, with no lyrics and just some kind of moans. Glad that Smashing Pumpkins upgraded this sound. Ok stuff. 3/5

Often cited as a pioneering act in the shoegaze genre, their sound is characterized by dissonant guitar textures, androgynous vocals, and unorthodox production techniques.

Only Shallow - 8.4 - I do think I should be understand the lyrics. Other than that, great. Loomer - 8.6 - like the vocals more here. electric guitar sounds awesome too Touched - 8.0 - a bit rougher. still sounds good To Here Knows When - 9.4 - I am drowning in my dreams. When You Sleep - 9.0 - feels more mainstream. still great. I Only Said - 8.8 - love the droning guitar Come in Alone - 8.3 - pretty good. nothing else Sometimes - 8.6 - vocals are more distinct. Blown a Wish - 7.2 - sounds like a princess song. only one I actively do not like What You Want - 7.9 - meh. I like the part at 3:15 where the guitar comes in. Soon - 9.3 - sounds awesome. guitar especially

Like listening to your neighbor’s music through the wall

Schräge Gitarren-Sounds und auch sonst recht schräg. Melodisch klingt anders. Nicht nichts für mich.

bruh the fuck is this?

Enjoyed it more than I thought, nice album as a whole

4 étoiles j'ai kiffé l'ambiance

Nicht meine Richtung

Ooooooh man. This is such a big deal. This album opened a new world. I fell in love with it, and a whole new genre about 20 years ago, mostly due to the soundtrack to Lost In Translation. It really did open me into areas of music I wasn’t familiar with. 5/5

Enjoyed but gave me images of 80s angst.

It’s a very good album! They have a cool style.

Ei taas pysty kuuntelemaan loppuun. Tämä on kyllä ihan kamalaa.

One of my alltime favorites

Apparently the defining album for the "shoegaze" genre? Pretentious, depressing, and boring, but I've heard worse.

jeg troede my bloody valentine var emo! TIL! Super cool!

Bedste hjernemassage

This is THE shoegaze album. It's noisy, dreamy, overwhelming and beautiful.

Nothing will ever beat the feeling of being 16 years old and “interested in music” and going through one of many “best albums of all time” list and stumbling into this completely blind. I think i made it 3 tracks in the first time before turning it off in confusion. anyway 16 year old me was a moron this is almost a perfect album.

I can accidently let this album run through twice without even realizing it, it's just a such a consistent vibe the whole way through. Beautiful sounds, melancholy vocals, this is a near 10/10 for sure. And it took me like 20 tries to even get through it for the first time a year ago! Now I adore it 4.5 stars

Classic for a reason. Really love the loops that end each song.

Dreamy, ethereal and twisted. I remember buying this on cassette when it came out, and I didn't listen to it much because I found it to be a bit too noisy. Flash forward, and I am delighted at the creativity and beauty of this album. It's a free-form odyssey into the possibilities of sound and I just love it. Fave Songs: Soon, When You Sleep, Sometimes, Come in Alone, I Only Said, Loomer, What You Want, Blown a Wish, Only Shallow, To Here Knows When, Touched

Not very exciting

THE shoegaze album.

It reminds me of the CW superhero shows where either the main hero goes through his "dark side" phase when its a bit more emo, a bit more aggressive but its ok or where they have an argument at homecoming/prom/winter formal.

4+ Stars (12/15)

EZ Five stars, reminds me of late summer in Cincinnati, riding my bicycle back to Liberty Hill from Ault park at dusk...

I actively hated this album. Read reviews, turned it up, hated it more. The guitar was really.cool but the vocals destroyed it. I had to give it a 2 just cause it's rare I find something good yet terrible.

Really interesting use of looping and distortion

Might need a few more listens but I still don’t get the hype with this album Favourite tracks: loomer, when you sleep, soon

Favorite Tracks: when you sleep i only said soon

Very nice

Given the renewed popularity of shoegaze inspired genres in the indie scene in the early 2020s you can really hear how this album influenced them. Loved it.

I started this album feeling skeptical. Going into it, I wasn’t familiar with shoegaze and after the first 2 tracks I was kind of at a loss. I was reading through some other reviews and read one that said shoegaze is best enjoyed loudly and through good quality headphones - so I listened to the next few tracks just like that and I had a total “oh I get it” moment. Theres something about the distortion and constant fuzz that my brain just likes when it’s being input directly into my ears with no outside disruption.

This one got me on the right day. I like moody shoegaze so I'm familiar this album. Throw this on in a dark room, headphones on, laying flat on the ground, chill out. Best Songs: N/A Listen Again: Yes

It's reputation precedes it. I've never listened to this album, I think I was intimidated by all the hype. Here's what I know going into it: it's considered one of if not the best album of the 1990s by multiple music publications, it's highly experimental guitar music, and you're supposed to listen to it LOUD. I'm looking forward to finally getting into it. Beautiful noise! I'm doing the most mundane bullshit at work and this is interesting enough to keep me in it, but ambient enough to not distract me. I think a more focused listening session after work will really pull me in. I just keep starting it over again at my desk. It feels like dreaming, or just waking up from a dream, or being very pleasantly high trying to remember what you were just talking about and walking through a party. The enormous distortion effects give this lucid, head-in-bag aura, out-of-body quality that I've never really heard captured musically before, closest feeling would be Cocteau Twins. It's meditative. I have read a little about how outrageously loud their shows were for this album, I can imagine that at ear-splitting volume this would induce intense emotion . If I didn't have a toddler, I would be cranking this on my home stereo tonight.

I did not know who this band was until now, but damn is this a fantastic album! I know this genre is described as dream pop or noise rock, and My Bloody Valentine is a great representation of this style. The heavily distorted guitar rhythms and dreamy vocals are my jam! Will definitely keep this album for future listens! Favorite Song(s): "I Only Said", "Only Shallow", "Sometimes", "Soon", "When You Sleep"

Pretty good

снова была обманута предубеждением о том какая у них музыка, а у них другая музыка) но почти инструментал, я такое не откладываю

CLASSIC BANGER

flanger/chorus, whispy vocals, but kind of heavy. Interesting at least. Songs all sound the same, all the music is just washed out flangy/chorusy cloud. It's Ok. 2.9.

Nope, this is mostly guitar noise. There might be some songs underneath, but it's badly mixed and too soft below the overbearing guitars. 1.5/5

2.5/5 This felt pretty whatever? Best track: Blown a Wish

Feels like being in a dream

Meh. There is very little variation from one song to the other.

Though it is sonically rich and adventurous, Loveless ends up being a cold, clinical and monolithic affair overall.

Had this as a teenaged obsessive of the NME and Melody Maker, but never really got it or got on with it. And now I'm over 50, I still don't. Noise doesn't make up for a challenging lack of melody. Extra star for 'Soon'

The kind of music that people who are really into music like (slightly vague, lots of loops, high pitched voice ‘woo’ing over it’s own modulated feedback) - am aspiring to the be the kind of person who can properly differentiate between tracks

Noisy in a bad way and not engaging or interesting.

My bloody ears. Who tf listens to this.

Difficult one to place. It is clearly an album of note, something really worthy of the list. But it's also a mad blanket of noise over songs and tunes trying to get out. Where they are allowed to, like on Only Shallow it creates a beautiful noise. On others the noise wins out. It's not my genre, but I can see that for that genre this is a thing so for sentimental reasons am over indexing it.

Mocht wat meer hoge noten hebben. Holy shit soon is goed

I was expecting the album to be so lowkey. It creates a nice atmosphere, but does little with it.

based classic

Not enjoying Loveless might be my biggest failing as a music fan. I’ve given it plenty of tries now and it’s just never clicked with me. only shallow is an incredible opener and the highlight of the album, and the one-two punch of when you sleep and I only said in the middle is another high point, along with a great closer. The rest just doesn’t really do too much for me though. While I understand the noise is kind of the point, and it is really impactful in places, on some songs like to here knows when it really overshadows the otherwise strong hooks and just results in a bit of a mess.

This album was interesting, the guitar work is very experimental, I didn't realize I was hearing guitar at some points. I guess the guitarist was trying to push the limits of the instrument. Lyrically, I didn't understand what was being said most of the time, although whatever was being said was repeated A LOT. I can hear how this album may have influenced later acts, I definitely thought I was listening to Smashing Pumpkins at a few points. It wasn't bad, I could definitely just put this on in the background. Overall it was just ok

Loved the heavy bits in this, some of the softer bits lost me momentarily but pretty solid overall

meh

Didn’t expect to rate an album one star when I started doing this project, but here we are. I was bored throughout. I had to stop listening after several songs and force myself to finish it later. If nothing else, at least I now know that I really don’t like shoegaze.

Good instruments, I don’t think I heard a single distinguishable word sung.

I can appreciate shoegaze now. But maybe it was the speakers but the noise overwhelmed the music. Good ideas but prototypes of the effective genre in my opinion

This one comes down to a personal thing. The heavy instrumentation promised a kind of music I really enjoy only to transition to a more reserved indie vocal I do not like. The disappointment I got listening to this album was palpable.

Had no idea what to expect, but was DEFINITELY not expecting a very droning and atmospheric shoegaze album. While I had to check to make sure my audio was working correctly at times due to the bizarre mixing on this album, I still really enjoyed it.

Strong start, became monotonous

Enjoyed it more than I thought I would…

not for me

It's strange how some albums just hit you. I love this. I saw them play once and am sure they were the loudest band I've ever heard. Swimming in sound

Meh. Washed out vocals in a bad way. Bored listening

Didn’t rly get it, soon was the only song i would listen to again. Felt like there was no low end on the mix like at all?

Not horrible! Only Shallow is my fav. Can see how it was formative for genre.

Shoegaze-y opiod rock. Relaxing

I meant the doors review about this one.

Weird good

A unique melodic howl of an album.

Not my favorite. I get what it's going for, definitely early 90s vibes. Just not my taste really.

Honestly really liked this album. Never heard of them, will listen to this again. Lead singer style reminds me of James Maynard Keenan.

шум

Great album

Lesssss goooo

This album is absolutely deafening. The distortion and feedback is unnecessarily loud and oppressive. I had to think about this all day because the only word I could think of was "noise". The only reason this album gets a second star is for the slight possibility it may have had a role inspiring the 90's grunge rock wave.

overrated only good song is when you sleep the rest hurts my ears

genre defining, but boring sometimes

The noisiest blob of beauty in music

Too much noise, too flat, somehow unsettling with headphones

Not really my jam

Great sound. A bit too ambient for me. I couldnt understand one single lyric, which is fine, but I dont know. It really did sound great, and that feeling of the early 90s alternative scene is strong and beautiful.

A fascinating listen. While I don't imagine coming back to much here, the style and early pioneering of shoegaze on this album really was so interesting that I couldn't in good conscience score it below a 3. It's like some weird modern art piece that oddly captivates you - while you won't hang it in your house to look at it every day, it's very interesting to observe while you're at the museum.

Couldn't understand a word of the lyrics, but dug the wall of sound. Felt like drudging through thick mud.

Oh man, what could I possibly say about this album that hasn't been said before. I can't think of any album that effectively killed a genre quite like this did with shoegaze. Sure there have been other great shoegaze albums after this, but this is just universally held up as number 1. It sounds exactly like the album cover looks, sweet pop songs covered in a thick pink wave of guitar noise. Sometimes is one the most heartbreaking songs you'll ever hear. I plan on enjoying this album for the rest of my life, I don't think i'll ever get tired of it.

Better than the other 2

A milestone as well as a masterpiece, highly original and emotionally impactful. One remains somewhat mystified why one likes it so much and feels quite so affected by it – something about the dramatic way the melodic swirl forms within the distortion and fuzz, or how the rhythmic drive and energy contrast with the purely abstracted noise art. Every time one listens to it, one wonders why one doesn't listen to it more frequently.

So, this record is definitely a vibe. You might like it, you might not. It certainly came out of nowhere and inspired a lot of folks who hadn't heard this kind of music before. I find it to be sort of a rocking version of Cocteau Twins, if that makes any sense. Well worth a spot on the 1001 in terms of influence, style, and creativity. When I first heard this record, it felt like I was picking up some alien radio transmission... psychedelic in the truest sense of the word. Had it been vinyl, I would have assumed something wrong with the pressing!

Didn't get into it at all

quite an interesting sound, but didn't feel like there was a lot of variety to me

little bit of grunge, little bit of indie. good sh*t.

Seemed rather demure and listless, not sure I understand the hype. Maybe shoegaze requires more familiarity to enjoy.