Dummy

Finally -- 600 albums in we get our first Portishead album. As far as trip-hop goes this and self-titled are absolutely untouchable. This is among the seminal works of the genre that set such a wonderfully unsettling and exposed tone. FWIW if you enjoy this album, I recommend checking out the album Hybrid by Elsiane -- I discovered it around the same time and, while it is different aesthetically there is some common element there. Especially in the intro track Vaporous. This album is all hit, no miss for me. One of those rare albums that I can put on literally anytime and be at peace. Mysterons is a great opening track that puts Beth Gibbons haunting vocals on full display over a spooky, minimal electronic instrumentation. Subtle shifting and scratching underpin a regular drum sample over which what sounds like a theremin warbles about. Sour Times carries forward the melancholy tone with a bit jazzier/bouncier entry featuring an exotic (eastern?) string sound and echo-laced guitar work. Strangers is among my favorites on this record and from Portishead in general. Love the way this one bounces back and forth between what I'll call "clean" and "dirty" segments. The clean are stripped down with canned vocals, while the dirty pull in the hip-hop beat with fuzzed out guitars and more clean and forward vocals. The result is a damned cool song. Numb is another favorite of mine. Simple, but highly effective. Then there is Roads, which stands out as one of the most popular relative to Spotify plays -- understand the broad appeal -- its a beautiful song that works so well. Full-bass, lush orchestral sweeps, and a droning organ sound give this a hug-like warmth. While Gibbons vocals sound so incredibly vulnerable. Biscuit is a wonderfully dusty, downtempo adventure. Trippy, chopped and screwed vocal samples and light mixing give this a delightfully cluttered vibe. Sprinkling keys work wonderfully in counterpoint to the dominating synth lines. Bleak and beautiful. Glory Box burns the album down slowly in a seductively drawn out inferno. Once again, just a beautiful jam that hits on all cylinders. So glad for this album to exist... Easy 5

Listened to Portishead 5-6 years ago on recommendation from my foreman at work who was definitely a hard drug enjoyer. Didn't like it then, don't really like it now. I think I understand trip hop as a genre a bit better today than I did 5-6 years ago, but this still just isn't for me. Too slow with decent but boring grooves. Singer being monotone is also a minus. Maybe on ketamine.

Ah finally the infamous Portishead which I keep hearing about from Brandon and Kevin, happy to finally listen. Very cool lo-fi type beats with some beautiful singing that she has to go on top. While the songs were sometimes repetitive in beat, they never got stale at all. Some of the effects that were thrown in were very cool. Perfect album to listen to while doing some mindless coding for the past hour.

Hell yeah love Portishead. So mysterious sounding. This and Mezzanine (hopefully is on here) are the quintessential trip hop albums. The arrangements and programming is just hauntingly beautiful from start to end. Beth Gibbons voice just mixes so well with the music also. Her voice on It Could Be Sweet is fantastic. Also just going through the wiki and on Roads there is an instrument called the 'nose flute.' If this wasn't an easy 5 already it sure is now. Love Glory Box. So easy to bounce your head to every song on here and Beth Gibbons voice is so emotional and has the perfect amount of tremble in it. This was an easy 5 before I started and loved hearing it again. Time to go listen to the Roseland live album by them.

fantastic debut album. 5 stars just for glory box. Favorite track: Glory box other picks: sour times, it could be sweet, wandering star Two 5 ⭐️s in a row after van halen 😀

Not for me

Good!!

This lives in that hard to define area between “Tori Amos made a James Bond soundtrack,“ and “the Cowboy Junkies went clubbing.“ No matter how thin you slice it, this is pretty cool stuff.

The vocalist and her haunting voice make this album. The instrumentation supports it, but it is rather blasé when she isn’t singing.

I would listen to this again. Her voice reminds me of someone and I can’t quite place it.

I'd heard of Portishead, but hadn't realized I knew a couple of their songs. If this is what trip-hop sounds like, sign me up for the newsletter. VERY good debut album. Sounds like the soundtrack to a stylish, sexy, well-produced detective movie. Excellent songwriting and singing. Somewhere between 4 and 4.5*.

I'm changing my review months later because I've realised I enjoy it a lot more now compared to my first listen. It's grown on me, helped by when I'm listening to this at night, that's when it's best.

Hell yeah this slaps. Weird as hell.

moody, vibey, broody, beautiful. i really loved this! i've always been meaning to listen to portishead, so i'm glad i finally had a no-skip opportunity. i thought it got a little samey after a while but still, a great entry on this list. always refreshing to see a woman, too 🥲

pretty neat album. definitely a unique sound (for the time, at least). now it's a bit more commonplace, but i imagine hearing this for the first time in the mid-90s would have been mind-blowing. not 100% my thing but still cool that this is on the list. favorites: sour times, wandering star, roads, glory box

I tend to listen in the morning. Not an ideal time for Portishead maybe? Still, what am I interesting band for it's time. Really wasn't anything like it in popular music. Much less a somber group that has four hits on a single album.

01) Mysterons - 9,0 02) Sour Times - 10,0 03) Strangers - 9,0 04) It Could Be Sweet - 9,0 05) Wandering Star - 10,0 06) It's a Fire - 9,0 07) Numb - 9,0 08) Roads - 9,0 09) Pedestal - 9,0 10) Biscuit - 9,0 11) Glory Box - 10,0 TOTAL: 9,27 (93/100) Current ranking: 19/371 I knew the singles, but I never heard the rest of the album. And the rest of the album is the reason why this is one of the most praised albums of the nineties. Apart from "Glory Box", which is one of my favorite songs of all time, I would like to single out "Wandering Star" and "Sour Times" as highlights of this excellent album.

great 90s vibe

This is so weird. It's like Depeche Mode and Linkin Park find underground Jazz. I like it. Also reminds me of me singing something I invented while my dad played the keyboards. I want more of this. Ohhh I already heard Glory Box somewhere before.

Nice, beste song op het einde

I was literally just the other day saying I needed to properly listen to this album, since Roads and Glory Box are absolutely impeccable tracks, and what do you know, this foundational album of trip-hop is really good trip-hop all the way down, I am Vibing

This is kinda jazzed up Young Marble Giants. It’s OK but not totally for me. Makes me tired.

Moody, atmospheric, plaintive, love it. Trip hop at its best, and very much up my alley - I've listened to Portisgead loads over the last couple of years (so maybe I'm biased) and the musicianship on this album is still phenomenal. Hearty recommendation from me. Faves: Sour Times; Roads; Mysterons

Ethereal.

If there ever was an album that I just NEEDED to re-listen to, it would be Portishead's debut album 'Dummy'. I listened it to about 4 years ago for the very first time, and while it didn't immediately click, it did make me feel something that very few records ever have. I mean this album nails its particular aesthetic on absolutely every song - those dreary guitars on 'Mysterons' and the following 'Sour Times' are nothing short of haunting especially when paired with Beth's ghostly vocals that sound like they're echoing out from the bottom of some cold well in the dead of night. I can't overstate how much this album clicked for me this time around, it has that definitive '90s trip-hop sound while simultaneously sounding like every modern-day electron-backed singer-songwriter artist, especially on a song like the cozy 'It Could Be Sweet'. The drum programming here, while synthetic, is what elevates this album to its uncanny peaks. The snare hits bash the mix on many of the songs here, especially on 'Wandering Star' - maybe the catchiest song here despite it being paired with some bone-chilling imagery. Maybe the best thing about this song though is how unabashedly golden-age hip hop those funk samples are, and how their upbeat nature almost clashes with the coldness at the song's core - it creates a strange dissonance that works in creating something wholly unique and even frightening. The song 'Pedestal' feels similar, hitting the listener with a little saxophone solo halfway through. This particular song feels like you're sitting in some sort of dilapidated, run-down jazz club in the middle of some rural town. The organ-driven 'It's a Fire', as its title suggests, feels warmer than anything else here but the thing I love about this album is that no song feels truly "safe", there's always something off with the tones, keys the band chooses to play in (especially in those dramatic string sections), and the lyrics. My two favorite songs however come near the end of the album. First is 'Roads' which has easily the best string arrangement on the entire album. The feelings of debilitating isolation and hopelessness expressed by Beth here are absolutely crushing - the song feels like standing at the top of a snowy mountain, in a storm, staring off into the distance knowing there's no way you'll ever be warm again. I also really like 'Glory Box', which has Beth switching up her vocal style to something kind of snappy, crooked, and almost conniving before her more typical lush style sweeps in on the chorus, again evoking those feelings of yearning under these squawking electric guitar hits. Albums like this just make you really happy to love music, but also really sad when get hit with the realization that nothing will sound like this ever again. Like DJ Shadow's 'Endtroducing', the sort of low-budget, imperfect mixing of it is what REALLY makes this album...its '90s-isms and its recording context. I'd say it's that fusion of artificial computer programming and sounds straight from the human soul in the samples and Beth's vocals - it's a fusion that can't be easily recreated because it feels as unintentional as it does intentional. But hey maybe there is more music that sounds like this, Portishead's two other albums could sure use a re-listen.

This is not interesting. Why is it here? Some songs had nice parts but I don’t need it.

Gives a strange and subtly oppressive atmosphere. Its like a dark curtain lays heavy over the entire album. Lynchian. Best: Biscuit, Roads Worst: Strangers

I neglected this at the time, and wish I hadn't, because I think it would have become a favourite. I liked the atmosphere of spooky, melancholy unease. The rhythms drive it forward, not letting it meander too far into uncertainty. The backing is sparse, but interesting. I did know some tracks, particularly Glory Box. Funnily enough, I saw Beth Gibbons on Jools Holland the other day, and was intrigued enough to look her up. "Oh, she's from Portishead. Must listen to them" I thought (as such was my ignorance, I didn't recognise her name. Or her.) Happily, it wasn't too late, and it's finally in my consciousness properly. I did get that mid-side-two lull, where it all started to get a bit samey, so it's not five stars but it's really good overall I think.

welcome to my controversial artist list, love this album (and the 2nd record), still pains me to think about Third and I dispute it's inclusion in the 1001 This is glorious, beautiful and hunting melodies from track 1 to the end

Vocal feminino top. Batida eletrônica de rico. Yate club wins

Not for me.

Mysterons: 5/10 Sour times: 5/10 Strangers: 3/10 It could be sweet: 1/10 Wandering star: 1/10 It’s a fire: 1/10 Numb: 0/10 Roads: 0/10 Pedestal: 1/10 Biscuit: 0/10 Glory box: 8/10

Already one of my all time faves. A perfect album. 10/10

Second time listening to this album. Better than the first time for sure. Could see myself listening a third time soon 7/10

Pleasant surprise.

Music to strip to?

Never heard this one before, it’s dope! Real chill and kind of atmospheric, with a hint of weird. It makes for a really fun listen. I will listen to this again and may check out more of their stuff.

That’s a 10. Unbelievable album

I've listened to Glory Box and Roads many many times now but only listened to this album for the first time a few months ago (and didn't revisit it much either, knowing that it'd eventually pop up here anyways). It's pretty much the epitome of embodying a mood and sound, with the doomed, dark romance thoroughly permeating the entire thing. "Give me a reason to love you Give me a reason to be a woman I just wanna be a woman"

听不懂但好睡

#296, this may be the first album where this list properly aligns with my own history of Essential Listens. Masterpiece at its time. It's been a while since I've heard it in full and when I put it on earlier, outside, with flimsy in-ears I was thinking that I might have worn it out too much, back then and how today I might prefer the grittiness of their "Third" or Gibbons' work with Rustin Man on "Out of Season", but that doesn't matter. "Roads" played and no, this is still magnificient. If you're reading this, make sure to check out "Scorn" from the "Glory Box" single. An outstanding way to make a remix. 10 out of 5 stars.

fantastic. 3.5

This album came out without me taking too much notice but I was aware that it quickly gained a lot of media attention and acclaim. Because of this I thought that I should give the album a listen but never got around to it. So Portishead for me remained a signpost on the M5 which I used to see on my way to Cornwall. I gather the name came about as they largely originated from the Portishead area. A good name but a good job they weren’t from the Ramsbottom area of Lancashire. The album has reached so much notoriety, as illustrated that it’s on this list, that I recently bought the album cheap at a charity shop. To my disgrace to some I suppose this was the first time I had listened to it in full. My honest conclusion is that I don’t think I have wasted the years this album was not in my collection. The overriding feel of the album is spaced out hip hop James Bond theme music. So not to my liking but it has allowed me to become aware of the lead singer Beth Gibbons. She has released a corker of an album in 2024 called Lives Outgrown so that is something in Dummy’s favour but little else. 2.5/5 4/11/24

Dummy is an extremely pleasant listening experience. There are lush soundscapes aplenty with just a splash of the eerie & foreboding industrial stuff that makes trip-hop so irresistible. Beth Gibbons has a wonderful presence about her on many of these tracks. I find that the strongest cuts come very early, and later on in the tracklist. The middle is where this album drags a touch. Overall though, it is inarguably a trip hop masterpiece and one that is well worth returning to time and again to discover new layers you might have missed previously. Top 3: 1. It Could Be Sweet 2. Sour Times 3. Glory Box Bottom 1: Wandering Star Overall Score: 8.1/10

Love love love this album. It's moody, it's unique. Simply brilliant

Excelente para chillear

Never got into them. Interesting.

A timeless classic

Genre-defining album. Glory Box, Roads, ... so many good songs here.

I never paid attention to Portishead, but wow! this one will get many listens in the near future :)

Obviously a groundbreaking album that to this day sounds like a little else. The samples are so slick, the vocals are sexy as fuck, it's a 5 from me. Glory Box is obviously one of the best songs of all time, and just so gender as well - it's a song about embracing femininity and coming into yourself. What's not to love. Best Track: Glory Box Worst Track: It Could Be Sweet

Best Song: Glory Box Worst Song: It Could be Sweet

I need to listen again

Laidback, chill, great to work to

So so bad

This was more notable than the other Portishead, so I guess that should have been 2 and this should be rounded up to 3. It at least strives to be something kinda creepy & weird. Rest of the trip hop we're getting on here strikes out not even swinging. bleep bloop star debt: increased. (⌐■_■)

More substance than the others English 90s electronic, which isn’t exactly saying much, but still,

I had a very different understanding of what Portishead was like as a band. I think I’d conflated them with Prodigy. Anyway, this was a pleasant listen. Ethereal vocals. Would put this on if in the right mood. 3/5

Really thought I wasn't going to enjoy this album, but boy was I wrong; it's truly fantastic. Beth Gibbon has a voice of an angel.

Situationally very good

Situationally very good.

Bad

Bit monotonous

Not really my thing. But I can appreciate the music.

Massive Attack is my trip hop standard. Portishead doesn’t rise to their level. Like don’t love.

Stone Cold Classic. My favorite Trip Hop.

Wanted to like it. Didn’t.

Alluring

i really liked this one. great album 8/10

Familiar with a lot of these songs from when it came out. Perfect production choices, very layered and obviously laboured over. Vocals outstanding as to be expected. 'Roads' a standout.

Relaxed, atmospheric, and eerie. Smooth, sweet, and clear vocals.

The opening song, Mysterons, is awesome. Rest I didn't quite warm up to.

Very cool indeed. This brought back so many memories of the 90s. It felt like (although I bet it wasn't, as they aren't professional Mancs) this was the only album ever played in Affleck's Palace, when you went to buy your flared cords and Black Grape t shirts.

The equivalent of turning on a fan at night so you have a bit of noise to fall asleep to. Really boring, basically the same thing all the way through

subtle masterpiece

Moody, atmospheric, brilliant Highlights: Mysterons, Wandering Star, Roads, Glory Box

Chill

Dummy really is one of my favorite albums of all time, and truly stunning as a debut. Wandering Stars, in particular, is amazing. Although as deep as my feelings are, I can see the space between this work and perfection, so landing at four.

Solid. Not awesome, but better than good.

This album is an absolutely critical listen. From front to back it is perfect. It pushed the envelope for it's time, and very few albums or artists have come close since. It is still the trip-hop standard next to Mezzanine by Massive Attack. 5/5

I've heard so much about Portishead. This was my first time listening and I can't say I'm a very big fan.

killer

classic, goated

Knew this one back in the day when it was popular & they were the talk of the town. I tried real hard to like it all but it's so gloomy was only drawn to a handful of songs. In retrospect, I kinda dig the slow groove. I enjoyed the intro, "Mysterons", moody & dark with a nice rhythm, a table setter for the entire album. That is immediately followed by their one "hit" song "Sour Times" which seemed to always be on alternative radio in 1994. My favorite was "Wandering Star" which I forgot about, repetitive but groovy. Then you have solid songs like "It's A Fire", "Numb", and the stellar "Roads" & "Glory Box", it's much better than I remember, not an album for everyone but I can see why it's deemed a must-listen recording. Top 1001 worthy!

Quite enjoyed this, chilled but catchy.

Another album that unlocked a nostalgic portal that I wasn’t aware of, amazing band and lucky to have seen them live once headlining Latitude feat guest appearance from Thom Yorke. A 5/5 all day long, the influence can’t be understated

Very good album. Much better as it went through. Dark tones. The beats were very interesting. Favorite songs: Mystery Box and It Could Be Sweet. (Rated a 3 but probably a 3.5 or 3.75)

Liked songs: Mysterons, Sour Times I really liked the tone of the album; very dark, lots of space in the mix, simple song structures but great execution. I will be coming back to this album

Quite enjoyed this - decent sound and the vocals were good too. Would happily give them a further listen!

Strano ma interessante

I was never really into this when it came out. But on listening now it was so much better than I imagined. Very chilled but the musical arrangements and the vocals elevated it above some similar offerings which I would usually consider dull.

Dummy is a landmark debut — dark, elegant, and emotionally devastating in the best way. Portishead created a sound all their own here, fusing hip-hop beats, moody jazz chords, and vintage vinyl crackle into something deeply cinematic and intimate. It’s trip-hop at its finest, but even that label feels too small for what this album achieves. Beth Gibbons’ voice is the beating heart of the record — fragile one moment, fierce the next — and she delivers every lyric like a whispered confession. “Roads” is the emotional centerpiece, a slow-burning masterpiece that aches with loneliness and longing. “Sour Times” blends spy-movie strings with a dusty breakbeat and unforgettable chorus. “Glory Box” closes the album with a sultry, smoldering plea for love and identity, flipping blues and soul into something futuristic and haunting. Even deeper cuts like “Mysterons” and “Wandering Star” add to the album’s shadowy atmosphere, each track flowing into the next like scenes from a noir film. Every detail — the scratches, the samples, the silence between notes — is deliberate and affecting. Dummy isn’t just an album; it’s a fully formed world. Strange, sad, and seductive — and once you enter it, it’s hard to leave. Favorite song: Mysterons

This was such an eye-opener in its depth, musicality, atmosphere... Everything. For some reason I hadn't listened to this album for ages, and relistening to it, it hasn't lost any of its impact and ages incredibly well.

A very chill but techy album.

It's ok. As a huge Massive Attack fan, I thought this album would be great. Instead it was just ok. It has potential, and perhaps listening on a different day would've felt different. But, just 3 out of 5 for me.

I’m nice I get past the 90s textures that lock me into a time, place and vibe, I can unearth some real genius here. The broody vocals keep you on your toes and are rarely out of sink with the electronic beats. I particularly liked “wandering star”.

I'd listened to this one a while back and liked it, but for some reason I enjoyed it even more on the 2nd listen. Kind of riding the line of 3 and 4.

One very well known song, but others equally nice. Cool album!

I really really love Portishead, so I recognize my bias in my rating of this album. Dummy still feels fresh even 30 years after its release. The tracks throughout the album feel as though they’re soundtracking an obscure film or indie movie. Beth Gibbons voice really sets them apart from other trip hop acts that came after them. Incredible vibes from front to back. Stand out track: Roads and Glory Roads

My friend in high school used to play this album a lot. I didnt really appreciate it at the time but now I see the vision.

Sour Times Strangers I enjoyed this sleepy album, listening to it at work with no one up here in the early morning, while the overhead lights switch off due to lack of movement.

It was hard not to rate this 4 stars; reminded me of the transistor OST

Thoroughly enjoyable album.

Groupe connu de nom uniquement. En fait non, j'avais déjà entendu 'Glory Box', sans l'associer à ce groupe. Belle voix, mais je trouve les morceaux monotones (à part justement 'Glory Box' très réussi), et 10/11 morceaux monotones font un album ennuyeux. Il n'est cependant pas désagréable à entendre (+1). =>2/5

Eh

Meh

7.5/10 Good stuff this. One of the pillars of trip hop. As such it sounds exactly like you expect, doesn’t diverge wildly from the very good sound. Samples, beats, scratching, vocals. Personally I prefer the sound of the third Portishead album. Best: Roads

Really unique sound, I like her voice a lot. I could see listening to this again when I'm trying to relax and unwind.

Atmospheric, moody and just a outright great listen. This whole advert sounds like the soundtrack for one of those early 2000s Bacardi adverts. MY biggest issue here is no single song stands out, instead the album feels like a piece of backing music, which is does fantastically and i find myself having on in the background constantly! But the like of a real standout song stops me from giving this a 5. I adore it, but i adore it in the background more so than as a first choice of listens.

Love it. So cool. So much better than all the other trip hop albums

Me and gideon throwback! Excited for more porridge as they’re grear

It's an odd one for me, this. I feel like I should give it five stars because it has a whole load of classic songs on it and it's such a unique sound. But whilst I've enjoyed hearing Portishead on the radio or around, it's never been something I would choose to put on myself. I think it's Beth Gibbons voice. It's just too tremulous for me. *shrug emoji* As a side note, and this has no effect on my score either way, I never knew the songs had such daft names. Like, I know "Roads" really well, but had no idea it was called "Roads". The same with "Biscuit." Is that keening song really about the love of a McVities Digestive? "Fully fed, yet I still feel hunger" etc.

A classic, takes me right back to 1994, the heartbreak of early love, of hearing new sounds that sound revolutionary to young ears, and that voice…

Unique, timeless. Cornerstone of all music collections

Tämähän on valloittava. Samasta laarista ammennetaan kun Massive Attack ja Moby 5/5

Vieläkin musta vähän tylsää tää Portishead. 2/5

Decently listenable trip-hop

Great album never dull

Meh.

Mysterons - Man if all the vocals are like this, I'm in for a long one...Not for me 1min in. I don't mind the instrumentation, but overall pretty boring. Sour Times - I don't think I'm gonna like a single song on this album. Vocals are just not for me. Instrumentation isn't interesting enough. Random thoughts: Ok so just found out Portishead is considered "trip hop" dont think i know anyone else in that genre. I can definitely see why this album was critically acclaimed, but boy is it not for me Strangers - So much of this album sounds the same. Putting me to sleep. Like do SOMETHING WITH THE VOCALS. BE INTERESTING! Sorry, just not a fan. It Could Be Sweet - Ok this one is starting off a bit different, kinda fun so far. Ope and then Beth comes in with the most uninspired vocals. The production literally sounds like elevator music now... Like I just can't imagine seeing this band live, you'd fall asleep. Not that live shows are the end all be all for judging bands, but... Wandering Star - This production kinda reminds me of a Splinter Cell soundtrack. It's just that little bass line or whatever it is. Kinda fun. Beth's vocals just aren't for me. Sorry I keep repeating that. It's A Fire - It's just not very entertaining. Nothing grabs my attention Numb - Sounds like Griselda is gonna come rap on this. Roads - This one has a lot of streams, lets see if it lives up to the hype. I like the moody intro. Ope and then Beth comes in.....fuck. Yeah I didn't like it Pedestal - I kinda like the production on this one, sounds very modern. Almost reminds me of Badbadnotgood. This might be my favorite song, but still not a big fan. Biscuit - I think the production on this album is actually pretty sweet. This is another good example. I can definitely tell that this was pretty revolutionary at the time of release. Or if not revolutionary, I can see why it was praised by critics. Seems pretty modern tbh. But Beth's vocals are not my cup of tea at all Glory Box - Ok, most streams on the album, better be good. Yeah it's gonna be more of the same. Production/instrumentation kinda cool, but not something I'd go back to. Might be Beth's best performance though Overall thoughts - You can reference my thoughts from Biscuit. I get why this was critically acclaimed, but I have no desire to listen to it again.

Nice chill vibes. Great for background music, though, nothing super notable for me.

Instant classic mixing jazz/trip-hop/post-punk

If anybody asks what kind of music I like, Portishead has been the first band I've mentioned every single time since this was released in 1994. Saw them live back then in Wolverhampton and again in Australia 2011.

Love the cadence and tone of this album

mmmmm

un meh muy mehazo

A masterpiece.

This one is so good. It does have a few dips, but overall is a very strong 4/5.

Mellow and chilled out music but clearly very influential in the trip hop sub genre. Plenty going on as well here, this isn't an album that's chilled out because of "space", they are nicely layered songs and some thought provoking lyrics.

I didn't know a thing about Portishead. Apple Music has it listed as "Electronic," so I was pretty sure I wasn't going to like it, then those drum rolls in the first track grabbed me, and the singer has a nice voice. Good beats throughout, some hip-hop-ish. Sounded like female Beck. Pretty good. I'll listen to it again.

Dummy is the debut studio album by Portishead, originally released in 1994. Wow, what a debut! This album is super moody, and sounds like the album cover imo. At some points it's funky, psychedelic, and I even hear some dub/reggae influence. The sampling is very tasteful and the vocals are smooth. The production is amazing. Very ahead of its time for 1994. The only downside is the album is sorta one-dimensional, but the one dimension they hit is done so damn well.

Great album, but a little uneven and some of the production touches have not aged well. When the formula works, it works.

This is a yummy album. Sultry, smooth, and sexy as all get out. Don't understand why I don't dig it.

Blends trip-hop with haunting vocals and moody beats. It dives deep into themes of love and loss, making it super relatable. The intro of "Mysterons" with that eerie buildup is just captivating. then there's "Glory Box" — the way it mixes longing and empowerment is everything! and the subtle jazz influences throughout tie it all together beautifully.

I waded through a lot of really average 60s albums to get to this one. What a relief. Numb is so good. I've listened to it countless times over the last thirty years. It takes me right back every time to that share house over the road from the gun shop in Brisbane in the late 90s. I picked up the CD second hand from a pawn shop, brought it home, put it on, and was captivated. This is definitely a four. Four wandering stars. Wandering Star, Mysterons. All great, slow burning brilliance. Roads! All the strings and feels. Glorybox -

I really like the style, but I feel like it got boring after a little while. I’ve had this album downloaded for a long time, intending to listen to it but it fell below expectations.

This is a really cool album. Enjoyed listening.

Vaikutti kelvollisesta. Pitää kuunnella vielä uudelleen.

5/5 One of my favorite albums of all time. Every song is phenomenal.

Mooi gebruik van samples. Je kan horen dat een toekomstig hip-hop genre als Trap hier invloed uit heeft gehaald (waarschijnlijk zonder door te hebben). Het genre heet natuurlijk ook niet voor niets trip hop, door de gelijkenissen met hip hop. Vocals zijn niet echt aan mij besteed, in ieder geval voor de eerste keer volledig luisteren. Iets te "zeikerig". Van de tekst heb ik nog niks meegekregen. Spannende mysterieuze vibe met zeer originele instrumentatie. 7,5/10

It sounds simultaneously trippy, unsettling, otherworldly, ethereal, beautiful. The vocals fit the music so fucking well. I wouldn't have thought jazz inspired music combined with hip hot beats would sound this good, but it does. What an experience. Favorites: "Sour Times", "Strangers", "Roads", "Pedestal", "Glory Box"

Not what I expected but I liked the mix of beats and sounds added in. Really nice vocals. Unfortunately, for me it gradually got less interesting. The style is definitely unique but it carried throughout every track making them all merge not that far in. I might need to give it another listen sometime to really get it. I can see why this is on the list. Highlights: Strangers Wandering Star

Chill, ethereal, lowkey

Fakkes med

Perfectly dark and moody, what could anyone not love about this album.

I had heard of Portishead but never listened to this album. Very dark and brooding. Her voice is perfect for the music. Would be a great album to listen to at 3:00 in the morning.

The OG lofi beats to relax and study to

el goat del triphop

I’m no Dummy to know this album is the Biscuit on the 1st place Pedestal. It’s a Fire. It Could Be Sweet, but these are Sour Times.

Love the vocals on this and it has a relaxing but rich feel. It was starting to feel a little long and then Glory Box dropped and I was feeling it again, strong finish. 8/10

Some good songs but not my favorite voice

Pleasant but everything is at the same tempo.

5/5

Interesting sounds. Not really my kind of thing. Vocals have ethereal quality.

lepszego albumu triphopowego już nie będzie

Great album, ground breaking in the day and still a unique sound.

I don't know what 'trip hop' means and I didn't like 'Dummy' straight away either, but today the album is one of my favourites. Beth Gibbons' voice is as bittersweet as almost any other I know. The instrumentation is "restrained" but still distinctive and wonderfully complementary. I am blown away by two of the samples they use, firstly this trembling melody, Zither, which reminds me totally of the Third Man and then Elegante People by Weather Report, I am an absolute Weather Report fan. If Portishead is a good example of trip hop, wow! What else is there to say, for me it's manna for the ears and soul. It's not medicine in the true sense of the word, but for me, currently in hospital after a serious operation, it's a healing and nutritional supplement. Give me more of it and it would be the devil's work if they didn't see me from behind here soon

I liked it, will listen again

Fuck yeah.

Album felt instrumentally strong and lyrically weak for the most part. Glory box was a beautiful exception

Dark lofi

I usually don’t rate an album this high on a first listen but holy shit this is so good. I love this. It’s smooth but rugged. Serene but I can pinpoint the sound as an edgier time in music. It’s almost indescribable but you can really feel this shit. And what a feeling.

A very mysterious, almost erotic at times album. It feels like new noir hip hop. Portishead stand out quite a lot, as their music seems to have a very recognisable sound. There are times it feels like it shows its age though with things like the record scratch sound, which I personally am not a fan of.

Yeah sorry just not hearing the greatness here.

Had kinda a skewed view of them before listening to this. The rip was the only other song I knew by them and this album was v different than that. I like the weirdness though just not my fav

I really liked the music but wasn’t into the vocals

The 90s were, in my opinion, the best era to grow up in musically. That opinion is not based on Portishead being active, as they are the dreariest bunch of bastards.

I've said it before and I'll say it again, I love trip hop!! This is my first experience with Portishead and I loved it a lot! Amazing record

Alright album, not by any stretch something I'd ordinarily listen to. Genre was almost lo-fi but not quite. Would maybe listen to the first two songs, again but not in a rush. Don't actively hate it but definitely not the most enjoyable listen I've had.

I can't say that this is my thing. I guess because R&B isn't too much of my thing either. Not this kind of electronica either. I liked 'Wandering Star'. It was good, yeah it was fine.

Not for me this one. Too slow and felt repeative. Would have to be in a very specific sort of mood to enjoy this.

Have this album. It is indeed a classic. Trip-hop at its finest.

I always enjoyed Portishead back in the 90s, but they were always a group that I’d forget about for years and then be reminded of, listen to them again, and then rinse and repeat. This is such a solid album, but it never sticks to me as something I constantly think about, but I never regret giving it another listen. I think it belongs on this list, but would probably fall short if I was putting together something similar.

Interesting sound. I had never actually heard Portishead's music and was surprised by the soft sounds and musical lilt. Not bad.

Great album but I feel roseland ballroom is just so much better

Awesome

It was hauntingly beautiful. If I was feeling a little down I would love to listen to this and just wallow (honestly!). The melodies are beautiful and emotional and the singers voice adds beautiful complexity to the songs.

One of my college roommates had this album, and after listening today, I’m assuming it was just on repeat in our apartment because I know the whole thing pretty well. It’s chill and slow, but has a lot of beauty and emotion in its pace. Also feels different and cool for that time. I enjoyed it!

Good

this was reccomended to me at the perfect time im going through such a trip hop phase and revisiting this album is what i needed. glory box def one of the best closers of all time and numb and pedestal are just spectacular. the best way to enjoy this album is a cool summer night with your window cracked open

Very cool trippy vibe. Not what I usually listen to but it really hooked me and drew me in.

Mér fannst þetta bara æðislega skemmtileg plata til að hlusta á. Svo skemmtileg að mig langar helst til að halda matarboð svo hún geti fengið að spila í bakgrunninum. Hún myndi búa til rétta andrúmsloftið. Þessi fer aftur í spilun

Really good. Will definitely come back to this. Can’t stretch myself to a 5 right now but I could see myself regretting it.

Интересно

"Dummy" is the debut studio album by English electronic music band Portishead. It was received with much critical acclaim, considered one of the best albums of 1990's, won the UK Mercury Music Prize and is attributed to popularizing the trip hop genre. The bandmembers include Beth Gibbons (vocals), Geoff Barrow (piano, drums, programming, string arrangements) and Adrian Utley (guitar, bass, theremin, organ and string arrangements). Instrumental to their sound, Barrow taught Utley sampling while Utley introduced Barrow to unusual sounds such as cimbalons and the theremins. Commercially, the album hit #2 in the UK and #79 in the US. The album opens with "Mysterions." Weird scratching, an eerie synth and tinny drums. Gibbons vocals are stark and emotional as she sings about forbidden love. The second single "Sour Times" starts out with a sped-up sample of Lalo Smith's "The Danube Incident." This song is creepy, spy-like and seductive. Gibbon's vocals are very expressive and memorable. "Nobody loves me, it's true, not like you do." Yeah, infidelity is the theme. The first single was "Numb." The rhythm carried by a sound somewhere between banging on a sink and a gong. Organ in background. More scratching. Anxious, creepy vocals. Very cinematic. "Biscuit" is another song that opens with a sample. This time it's Johnny Ray's "I'll Never Fall in Love Again." Haunting vocals. No matter how much you eat, you'll never be satisfied. The album closes strong with the third single "Glory Box." Down low music beat. Guitar slashes. Strings in the background. Very 50's to 60's sounding. This album creates a unique atmosphere- dark, stark, seductive, hypnotic and cinematic. Gibbon's vocals are similar but also adds a gentle and emotional side. There's a variety of beats between songs and also great, selective use of hip hop elements in the sampling and scratching. It's funny; I hear songs from this album way more today than I did back in 1994. That shows you how well it's aged. This is just an outstanding album.

Not my cup of tea but a sonically well made album and was entertaining enough to listen to. The eeriness really created like this soundscape that I was very impressed by. 7.5/10

Reminds me of how music was influenced but still not my taste. Fist half of the album was good, lost interest in the middle

This is a good album. It gets 3 stars because it's not quite as great as the albums I've given 4 stars to

A classic, genre-defining piece of work. A big part of my soundtrack of the 90s. What else? Beth Gibbons's voice still splits me open. Utley's and Barrow's soundtracks still slaps. Dripping melancholy and rainy sunday afternoons in grey cities. Not everyday, every season music. November made into sound.

Great album. Good beats and vibes. Didn’t like the voice as much

There’s background noise that sounds like you’re playing well-worn vinyl that really adds to the hazy atmosphere and is very cool. Listen to this on a cloudy day and relax.

Mysterieus, spannend, paranoïde, sensueel, boos, wanhopig. Dit album zit vol met uiteenlopende gemoedstoestanden, en dat bij elkaar gefabriceerd door wat trip hop beats. Maar daar doe ik de productie op dit album echt te kort mee. De samples zijn keer op keer raak, en gaat als yin samen met yang; het zalige stemgeluid van Beth Gibbons. Consistentie is key, waar in ieder nummer een hoop aandacht geniet. Niks klinkt enigszins verwaarloosd, en elke song is op zijn manier in de watten gelegd met dikke orgels, spannende Isaac Hayesian samples, of scheurende gitaren. Dit album is af, van top tot teen. Soms heb je zo'n album waar je bij elk nummer kunt voorstellen dat hij iemands lievelingssong is van de plaat. Mijne is 'Sour Times', daar komt alles samen. 9,5/10 Highlights: Sour Times Strangers It Could Be Sweet Glory Box

Met Portishead, PJ Harvey en Massive Attack verschijnen er in de jaren 90 een aantal beeldschone maar taaie albums, zo ook Dummy. Dummy is traag, maakt gebruik van nieuwe geluiden (klinkt daarmee typisch 90-s) en de zang is meer een instrument dan een manier om een boodschap te verspreiden. Dummy flowed op een triphop beat langzaam en zacht vooruit terwijl de stem van Beth Gibbons je zoet en zuiver toezingt. Niet het makkelijkste album, maar zeker na een aantal luisterbeurt en een zeer mooi kunstwerkje. 8,5/10 Highlights Sour Times It's a Fire Glory Box

Another one of those albums that I more or less enjoyed listening to, but didn't get a strong impression from.

das andere Massive Attack? gefällig, eher wenig ereignis, aber doch auch bekanntes: Sour Time, It Could Be Sweet. ich mag trip hop als lounge-musik.

Good shit

this is what music from the future sounded like in the past

Not good.

No. 240/1001 Mysterons 3/5 Sour Times 3/5 Strangers 3/5 It Could Be Sweet 3/5 Wandering Star 2/5 It's A Fire 4/5 Numb 2/5 Roads 3/5 Pedestal 2/5 Biscuit 3/5 Glory Box 3/5 Average: 2,82 Kinda felt neutral about this.

This was generated for me on this album’s 30th anniversary. Cool!

очень мрачно и музыка с болот, не могу долго слушать

Not my taste but creative

An easy listen. I liked it but something's missing for me.

It’s is two separate things to “get” an album vs. to “like” an album. I get this album. I really do. There’s no more needing to beat me over the head with it. But I still don’t like it in the way everyone else does. There are other albums that go for this same aura and do it better

This is lumped in with trip-hop, but, according to their wikipedia page, they "disliked being associated with the term", which I totally understand because, unlike every other trip-hop album I've heard, this doesn't suck. I hesitate to give this a 5-star rating because I'm trying to leave that for albums that I think I'll return to relatively regularly. Even though I'm not sure I will listen to this frequently, I can foresee the occasion arising from time to time and I'm not mad about it.

Wow! This is my 2nd Portishead album from the 1001, and I was just as amazed as the first time! I just love the sound and feel of them

I loved most of it!

Haunting and amazing

Did not leave a lasting impression

Solid

Memories...

I really don't want to sound pretentious, but this album is an amazing sonic experience. I have had a soft spot for Portishead since high school - I particularly remember falling asleep to "Roads" on an overnight bus to Spain, so I admit I'm really biased here. All of the big hits are amazing and, in my opinion, they were even more perfected on the live recording of the Roseland NYC album (I fear that it's not on this list, which is shocking considering how many boring hard rock live albums I've had to endure so far). It's worth noting that not all of the songs are perfect (especially in the middle of the album), and yet none of them are weak as they all further add to the overall vibe of the entire thing. I love the pulsating bass with simple beats juxtaposed with the occasional snare rolls. And then, on top of that base, you get those haunting synths or samples, the beautiful guitar playing and the heavenly voice of Beth Gibbons. I have check out more trip hop albums. 5/5

Favorite Track: Roads

great record. 4.5

This was a 1 star album until Glory Box added the second star. 2 stars or D+.

what a gem

While I think that this is one of the most interesting albums I've listened to so far, it didn't really leave much more of an impression on me. I enjoy the vibe of it for the most part, though.

A classic one, and i totally love the sound, still boring sometimes

Not hugely into it. Could honestly have given it a one but a few tracks on the back end of the album kinda saved it.

I like the style. It’s sort of jazzy and mysterious with dubstep randomly creeping in, and I love the sound of the singer’s voice against the background. I don’t have anything bad to say about it, but also don’t feel I really love it. Happy to give it a try though.

Kinda gave me evanescence vibes. I didn’t think it was particularly great though. I also need to write my review on Friday.

Nothing that stood out besides picking out a sample and seeing the influence this band might have had on future artists and engineers. Chill vibes the entire time and good background music. Middle of the road for this one.

An interesting album. Not much that I can really compare it to. I appreciate it's place on this list, but I wasn't crazy about it.

💖 wandering star 🗣️ 8️⃣

Enjoyable but not as extraordinary as I first remembered. A solid 3.5/5.

This is a definite vibe that you have to be in the mood for. Overall a good album, though a really homogeneous sound.

Bored to tears, tbh. It was musically very nice, but the genre just didn’t do it for me at all.

God, record scratching is so cool when it isn't shoved into a metal album. If Goldfrapp creates the 007 theme of trip hop, then Portishead makes the soundtrack for the 90s film noir. This album is the heartbeat of everything from the era: the hip-hop influenced beats, the re-introduction of jazz into the mainstream, the soft-spoken vocals of pop, and that use of sampling just subtle enough to be incredibly influential. I mean, look how many artists spawned from this new take on an already established underground style. Bjork, the already mentioned Goldfrapp, Gorillaz, I wouldn't be surprised if Massive Attack themselves took from this album to fuel their albums past this point. Everything is done incredibly, with Beth Gibbons' vocals perfectly steering the heartbeat of this album's engine via the methodical, thumping drum and bass, and that hint of strings and your usual rock instruments allow for an album that perfectly shows off the grimy yet slicked back feel of the 90s, and it is magnificent. It is the dark alleyway, the rain drops falling upon a sunken-in roof, and it is pure, unadulterated, and sinister class.

Most of electronica sounds robotic and cold. But albums like "Dummy" - especially "Dummy" - are different. "Dummy" is deeply human. Darkness, beauty, emotion and all.

I dig the overall vibe but this album has almost zero range. All of the songs sound the same! This group would work better for me in a mix with other songs and artists.

a bit repetitive

Super chill album full of vibes. Portishead's Dummy is a very easy listen. The beats and samples are creative without being chaotic. Which happens a lot in electronic music. And Beth Gibbons' voice is very soothing, it just works perfectly for the tone rhey set across this album. I really like the opening four tracks, with It Could Be Sweet probably be favorite of the group.

Not my type of music. Nondescript.

Fantastic background music with the occasional ear-catcher track, or at least part. Glory Box also really stands out to me. Not a fan of electronica, but this one is a 3.5/5

2,5

Not my thing. I get what’s it’s doing, but I really just wanted it to be over.

It is true I find this listenable. Can I differentiate between songs? No.

I really like this album. I had forgotten about all of the industrial sound that accompanies the ethereal lyrics and mood.

This was never not going to be a five for me. It Is as strong, powerful and fresh as it was 30 years ago. I can’t quite believe I bought it so long ago but I can play it any time and still love everything about it. So good I played it twice.

Some songs were great, while others were so-so. Well, this is more of a 3.5, it doesn’t rise to the level of four for me.

I own one Portishead album, but had never heard anything else by the band. I think I may like this one more — hard to say, it's been a while. There's a unique blend of haunting humanity and detached humanoid to this music, and though it started fading into the ether late into the album, there were so many moments that captivated and challenge me that it's a solid 4-star album in my book.

A classic. A friend of mine said that these guys found a new way to be depressed, which I've always loved. I gotta be in the mood for this, though, and yesterday was not that day. But, damn she's a good singer and their sound is great. But it falls just shy of being a 5 for me because it's so one-note.

Portishead always delivers a vibe. I listened while walking my dog on a beautiful mountain trail with waterfalls. We were alone and the woods were a bit dark. Until this listen I did not know Portishead was responsible for this entire genre---trip hop. I just knew I loved Beth Gibbons voice and the dreamy journey.

Not for me. Not enough gusto for my taste.

Was even vergeten hoe dik ik dit album vind

Klinkt als een Roald album wel nice

Glory(box)ious

..... Jupp :))

The beats and singing are cool, but I don't think this album has aged well. In the era of DAW productions, I often hear tracks that sound similar to this. 3.5

Vibey af

I really like the sound and the voice - but listening to the album in one sitting at the start of the day made me a person who was not fun to be around.

Portishead always feels claustrophobic to me. The songs are really good, but I can rarely stand that feeling. I wonder what it is?

Smoke drifting across a room ... caught in light coming from under a very closed door. Listening at a wall Delicate ghost shapes. But something is burning. It's good.

Mysterious, cinematic, unsettling, cool, strong, oppresive, delicate, original, light, dark, beautiful, enigmatic, surprising, edgy, sad, fragile, desolate, inventive, hypnotic, absorbing, elegant, uncomfortable, seductive, intimate, unique.

Gloomy and mysterious, done right. Favourite track: Wandering Star

This album sounds how sleep deprivation feels. Soundtrack of doomers. It’s one of those albums where I really haven’t listened to anything like it before. I had to keep retyping my review as my opinion kept changing. Initially I hated it but it grew on me as the album progressed, and more again with a second listen. Really loved Roads so that earns it a star alone. I was reminded of Gorillaz in places. Very bleak and atmospheric. If I was feeling depressed and wanted to feel more depressed I would put this album on. It’s like the antonym of Getz/Gilberto. I’m not sure how often I’ll be in the mood to listen to this, but without a doubt it has expanded my musical horizons. Will revisit.

Bad. Rambly and simplistic.

En riktigt bra skiva om man är i rätt vibe. Känslan är svår att beskriva, som depression utan att vara ledsen. Hade lyssnat innan men det var ett tag sedan så hade inget att emot att lyssna igen. Bra album med bra låtar. Den enda som kanske står ut lite är Glory Box, annars är det kanske inte det mest dynamiska albumet. Det är inget negativt dock utan jag tror att om de skulle vara någon låt med mer ös på denna skulle den förstöra hela albumet. Omslaget passar vibben bra och är därför snyggt enligt mig. Orkar inte babbla på mer om denna men den får en femma för jag är snäll denna söndag natt.

Each song is fine in its own right, and it was a little more sonically interesting than most electronica I've heard, but still ultimately suffered from being sluggish and unchanging

Liked it! But almost all the songs sound the same.

Pretty good. Interesting. Can hear a lot of different influences. Dynamic sound and an enchanting voice. Not sure what I was expecting, but this one surprised.

I love this band so much and hope their live album is on this list as well because it's phenomenal with a full orchestra. Their second album is also a classic but this one is front to back solid and a wonderful debut. Nothing else sounds like this. Beth Gibbons has such a beautiful, haunting voice that I never get tired of.

If Massive Attack are the sound of a group relaxing at home getting stoned, then Portishead is the sound of an individual sat drinking in a smokey bar, the music distorting and twisting with every drink they have. I’m really glad I got the motivation to listen to this, because my knowledge of Trip-Hop does kinda stop with Massive Attack, and I’ve been meaning to rectify that with listening to Tricky, which possibly may not have been the best choice. Instead, going with Postishead has 100% sold me. This is 100% what 90’s bars sound to me now, just like 70’s bars all sound like either Neil Young or Tom Waits. Absolutely gonna come back to this, and will probably be in my sad drinking rotation for a while

You made it. I enjoyed listening to electronic music. What surprises me is to call it trip-hop, since the example band of this style is the Massive Attack. I cannot see any similarities, this is much better.

Weird. I dig it. A lil too 'poppy' for me. But def on the weird side. Which I kinda like. Hmm prob a 3/5.

Perhaps if I had lived in the UK during the early/mid-90s and saw the rise of Trip Hop through predecessors like Massive Attack, I'd have rated this higher. Looking at it from 2024, though, it feels more like an artifact of its time and place. It feels like Evanenesence—and not in a good way. It's not a happy album, that's for sure. A few decent tracks (Sour Times, Glory Box) seem to rise above the rest of the sadness throughout the album. I also perked up a few times when I recognized samples during songs—Weather Report, for example, popping up at the start of one.

3.8, very shipwrecked sound track

Great instrumental, amazing lyrics. I wasn’t too much of a fan of the singing style but it’s just a personal preference

This was for a moment in my life one of the few albums my brother (who was deep in hip-hop) and me (who was deep in hippie rock and pop, punk, new wave, and weird indie shit) both loved listening to. I forgot some of the less famous tracks which hew more soft and pretty than trip-hop funky. <3

Now this is what I'm here for! I've never heard this band and didn't know this genre at all. And I'm into it. It's energizing yet peaceful, like dusk at the end of a good day. 5 stars. Best song: Sour Times. It sounds like bossa nova by way of Morphine.

Different, and some very memorable songs

Love this album. Love her voice, the lyrics, the vibe.

I haven't listened to this album in many years, mostly because I remember it feeling a little dated, but listening to it, it holds up surprisingly well. There are 2 or three songs in the middle that feel a bit off, but if anything its a much better album then I remember. dark and moody, but still a decent groove.

Chill listen. Sounded very similar after awhile. I would punch out more to boredom than annoyance, which I guess is the difference between a 2 and a 3 here. 2.5/3

A lot of this sounded alike, but the vibes to chill out to were still abundant. Better than Massive Attack. Best when listening with headphones.

Cool but kinda boring

I wanted to like this. But after a while it just felt like a slog. 2.5 but rounding down bc I’ve been giving too many generic 3s. Sorry Portishead.

Classic vibes album. 4/5

Bleak and depressing. Felt like I should put on a turtleneck and drink coffee in a dark room all day.

Definitely below expectations

This is an interesting album. I like the singer's voice- it is very soothing to me. Plus the music is nice. 4/5

Decent electronic vibes

Absolutely Perfect beauty of a record

mds que álbum!!

A great, chill, proto-lofi album.

This got a little overplayed in our house years ago and we just had to step away for a while. I think I still like it! Great chill vibe, sonic ear candy, and the tunes are solid from start to finish.

One of the all time, stone cold.classics. utterly timeless. ESSENTIAL

Love the ambience, will need to listen to this one again. The pairing of the singer and electronic music fits perfectly.

Best shit ever

### Review of "Dummy" by Portishead **Introduction** "Dummy," released on August 22, 1994, is the debut studio album by the British band Portishead. It is often credited with popularizing the trip-hop genre, characterized by its melancholic and atmospheric sound, combining elements of hip-hop, jazz, and electronica. The album consists of 11 tracks, each contributing to a cohesive yet diverse auditory experience. This review will delve into the lyrics, music, production, themes, and influence of "Dummy," highlighting its strengths and weaknesses. **Lyrics** Beth Gibbons' lyrical contributions on "Dummy" are introspective, often exploring themes of isolation, heartache, and disillusionment. The lyrics are poetic and enigmatic, leaving much to the interpretation of the listener. - **Strengths:** - **Emotional Depth:** Gibbons' lyrics are deeply personal and evocative. Tracks like "Sour Times" and "Roads" articulate a profound sense of longing and vulnerability. - **Imagery:** The use of vivid imagery helps to create an immersive experience. For instance, in "Wandering Star," Gibbons sings, "Please could you stay a while to share my grief," painting a picture of desolation and seeking solace. - **Weaknesses:** - **Ambiguity:** While the ambiguity can be a strength, it might alienate listeners who prefer straightforward narratives. The abstract nature of the lyrics may be challenging for some to connect with immediately. **Music** The music on "Dummy" is a blend of various genres, with a significant emphasis on creating an atmospheric and moody soundscape. The instrumentation includes a mix of live and sampled sounds, creating a unique texture. - **Strengths:** - **Innovative Sound:** The fusion of hip-hop beats, jazz samples, and haunting melodies was groundbreaking at the time of the album's release. Tracks like "Numb" and "Glory Box" exemplify this fusion, creating a sound that was both fresh and timeless. - **Variety:** Despite the cohesive mood, each track offers something distinct. "Mysterons" introduces the album with a haunting theremin, while "Biscuit" features a more upbeat, almost jazzy rhythm. - **Dynamics:** The use of dynamics, from the soft, almost whispering vocals in "Roads" to the more intense moments in "Strangers," adds to the emotional impact of the music. - **Weaknesses:** - **Pacing:** The album's slow, deliberate pace might be a drawback for some listeners. The atmospheric nature can sometimes border on monotonous if one is not in the right mood. **Production** The production of "Dummy" is meticulous, with Geoff Barrow and Adrian Utley crafting a sound that is richly layered and textured. The production plays a crucial role in the album's overall impact. - **Strengths:** - **Attention to Detail:** Every element, from the crackling vinyl samples to the reverb-drenched guitars, is carefully placed to enhance the mood. This meticulous attention to detail is evident in tracks like "Pedestal" and "It Could Be Sweet." - **Atmosphere:** The production successfully creates an immersive atmosphere, transporting the listener into the dark, moody world of the album. The use of analog equipment and vintage recording techniques contributes to the timeless quality of the sound. - **Weaknesses:** - **Consistency:** While the production is generally a strength, there are moments where the heavy reliance on certain effects, like reverb and echo, can feel repetitive. **Themes** "Dummy" explores themes of emotional turmoil, existential angst, and introspection. These themes are woven throughout the album, creating a cohesive narrative. - **Strengths:** - **Emotional Resonance:** The themes of heartache and loneliness resonate deeply, making the album relatable to anyone who has experienced similar emotions. Songs like "Sour Times" capture the essence of emotional struggle with lines like "Nobody loves me, it's true, not like you do." - **Cohesive Narrative:** The recurring themes throughout the album create a sense of continuity, making "Dummy" feel like a complete work rather than a collection of individual songs. - **Weaknesses:** - **Dark Tone:** The consistently dark and melancholic themes might be too heavy for some listeners. The lack of lighter, more uplifting moments can make the album feel overwhelmingly somber. **Influence** "Dummy" has had a significant influence on music, particularly in the development of the trip-hop genre. Its impact can be seen in the works of many artists who have drawn inspiration from its unique sound. - **Strengths:** - **Genre-Defining:** "Dummy" is often credited with defining the trip-hop genre, influencing artists like Massive Attack, Tricky, and more contemporary acts such as Lana Del Rey and The Weeknd. - **Longevity:** The album's influence has endured over the decades, with its sound continuing to be relevant and inspiring new generations of musicians. - **Weaknesses:** - **Niche Appeal:** While influential, the specific sound and style of "Dummy" cater to a niche audience. Its impact, while significant, is somewhat limited to certain genres and scenes. **Pros and Cons of "Dummy"** - **Pros:** - **Innovative Sound:** The fusion of different genres and the pioneering use of sampling and production techniques set "Dummy" apart from its contemporaries. - **Emotional Depth:** The lyrics and themes resonate on a deep emotional level, making the album a powerful and moving experience. - **Cohesive Atmosphere:** The production and music create a cohesive, immersive atmosphere that transports the listener. - **Influential:** "Dummy" has had a lasting impact on the music industry, particularly within the trip-hop genre. - **Cons:** - **Pacing and Monotony:** The slow pacing and consistently dark tone can be a drawback, potentially leading to a monotonous listening experience for some. - **Ambiguity:** The abstract nature of the lyrics may alienate listeners who prefer more straightforward storytelling. - **Niche Appeal:** The album's specific sound and style may not appeal to a broad audience, limiting its mainstream accessibility. **Conclusion** "Dummy" by Portishead is a landmark album that has left an indelible mark on the music world. Its innovative fusion of genres, emotional depth, and meticulous production make it a standout work that continues to influence artists and resonate with listeners. While its slow pace, dark tone, and niche appeal may not be for everyone, those who connect with its themes and sound will find "Dummy" to be a profoundly rewarding experience. Its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, securing its place as a seminal album in the trip-hop genre and beyond.

This is a really interesting album, kind of spacy in places, rhythmic in others, very atmospheric. I like the vocals and guitar very much, particularly in the tone they have. It's not grabbing me instantly as being totally compelling, but it's close, if I had the option of a nine of ten, I'd do that, but without that option, I have to go four stars, but there's potential for five.

Dummy is a seminal album that defines the trip-hop genre with its haunting melodies and atmospheric production. From the opening track, Mysterons, the album immerses listeners in a brooding soundscape of eerie synths and hypnotic beats. Beth Gibbons' vocals are a standout, delivering a mix of vulnerability and intensity that perfectly complements the dark, cinematic instrumentals. The use of sampling and live instrumentation gives the album a timeless quality, making it feel both retro and ahead of its time. The production, handled by band member Geoff Barrow, is meticulous, with each track meticulously crafted to create a rich, immersive listening experience. Dummy is not just background music; it's an album that demands attention and rewards repeated listens with its intricate layers and subtle details. Despite its melancholic tone, the album never feels oppressive, instead offering a kind of cathartic release through its emotive soundscapes. Overall, Dummy is a masterclass in mood and atmosphere, showcasing Portishead's unique vision and musical prowess. It's a must-listen for anyone interested in the evolution of electronic music and the enduring power of a well-crafted album. NUMBER OF BANGERS - 8 STAND OUT TRACK -Strangers

Got more into it as the album went on. Enjoyed wandering star. Would like to listen again.

5/5 - loved this album for years

Glory Box is actually one of the most perfect songs ever written and the rest of this album is not far behind. I LOVE this album and Portishead so much… so mysterious and sultry and the instrumentals… it's just too good. Funny how I used to not really care for any of their other music other than the best song ever Glory Box but they've slowly crept up on me to the point where this is a no-brainer 5 for me

Amazing album, with very calm melodies.

One of my favorite albums ever.

I love the 90s, but the last few weeks have been pretty 90s heavy. This was ok but it all kind of blends together. I’m pretty sure many of these songs were played in the background of lesbian seductress scenes in cheesy 90s movies.

I've listened to a bit of Portishead in the past and know that they have a place in the 90's fem-led rock zeitgeist, but never listend to a full album. This wass a treat. Dark, moody, lyrically heavy. I dug it.

This is a shockingly influential album. I've heard samples of many of these songs in hip hop, and the production definitely influenced certain rock and pop bands of the 2000s. While I like the album, and can't deny it's influence, some of the songs feel one piece away from amazing. Best Songs: Sour Times, Wandering Star, It's A Fire, Glory Box Worst Songs: Pedestal