Journey Complete!
Finisher #178 to complete the list
1091
Albums Rated
3.32
Average Rating
100%
Complete
Rating Distribution
Rating Timeline
Taste Profile
1980s
Favorite Decade
Grunge
Favorite Genre
UK
Top Origin
Wordsmith
Rater Style ?
146
5-Star Albums
26
1-Star Albums
Breakdown
By Genre
By Decade
By Origin
Albums
You Love More Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Strange Cargo III
William Orbit
|
5 | 2.77 | +2.23 |
|
Southern Rock Opera
Drive-By Truckers
|
5 | 2.82 | +2.18 |
|
Whatever
Aimee Mann
|
5 | 2.82 | +2.18 |
|
You Are The Quarry
Morrissey
|
5 | 2.86 | +2.14 |
|
The Contino Sessions
Death In Vegas
|
5 | 2.91 | +2.09 |
|
Leftism
Leftfield
|
5 | 2.91 | +2.09 |
|
New Gold Dream (81/82/83/84)
Simple Minds
|
5 | 2.95 | +2.05 |
|
Vauxhall And I
Morrissey
|
5 | 2.96 | +2.04 |
|
O.G. Original Gangster
Ice T
|
5 | 2.97 | +2.03 |
|
Talking With the Taxman About Poetry
Billy Bragg
|
5 | 2.97 | +2.03 |
You Love Less Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Five Leaves Left
Nick Drake
|
1 | 3.47 | -2.47 |
|
At Fillmore East
The Allman Brothers Band
|
1 | 3.38 | -2.38 |
|
You've Come a Long Way Baby
Fatboy Slim
|
1 | 3.35 | -2.35 |
|
Blood, Sweat & Tears
Blood, Sweat & Tears
|
1 | 3.17 | -2.17 |
|
Drunk
Thundercat
|
1 | 3.12 | -2.12 |
|
Sister
Sonic Youth
|
1 | 3.02 | -2.02 |
|
Electric Ladyland
Jimi Hendrix
|
2 | 3.95 | -1.95 |
|
Black Monk Time
The Monks
|
1 | 2.94 | -1.94 |
|
Cosmo's Factory
Creedence Clearwater Revival
|
2 | 3.93 | -1.93 |
|
Gris Gris
Dr. John
|
1 | 2.88 | -1.88 |
Artists
Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Beatles | 7 | 4.86 |
| Radiohead | 6 | 4.83 |
| U2 | 4 | 4.75 |
| Morrissey | 4 | 4.75 |
| Van Morrison | 3 | 5 |
| The White Stripes | 3 | 5 |
| The Smiths | 3 | 5 |
| The Cure | 3 | 5 |
| Peter Gabriel | 3 | 5 |
| Nirvana | 3 | 5 |
| Bruce Springsteen | 5 | 4.4 |
| Pink Floyd | 4 | 4.5 |
| Violent Femmes | 2 | 5 |
| The Jam | 2 | 5 |
| John Lennon | 2 | 5 |
| AC/DC | 2 | 5 |
| The Clash | 2 | 5 |
| Depeche Mode | 2 | 5 |
| Van Halen | 2 | 5 |
| Def Leppard | 2 | 5 |
| The Rolling Stones | 6 | 4.17 |
| Led Zeppelin | 5 | 4.2 |
| R.E.M. | 4 | 4.25 |
| Metallica | 4 | 4.25 |
| Elvis Costello & The Attractions | 4 | 4.25 |
| The Kinks | 4 | 4.25 |
| Beck | 3 | 4.33 |
| Pixies | 3 | 4.33 |
| Simon & Garfunkel | 3 | 4.33 |
Least Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Sonic Youth | 5 | 1.8 |
| Robert Wyatt | 2 | 1.5 |
| The Mothers Of Invention | 2 | 1.5 |
| Can | 2 | 1.5 |
| Todd Rundgren | 2 | 1.5 |
| Grateful Dead | 3 | 2 |
| Tim Buckley | 3 | 2 |
Controversial
| Artist | Ratings |
|---|---|
| Love | 5, 2 |
| The Velvet Underground | 2, 5, 5 |
| Nick Drake | 1, 4, 3 |
| Beastie Boys | 5, 2, 3 |
5-Star Albums (146)
View Album Wall
Popular Reviews
Sonic Youth
1/5
This is a strange collection of dissonant sounds, strange chords, screams, and stress. Every time i think i may appreciate a song it devolves into some incomprehensible chaos. Hard to tell if this is some sort of genius or crazy people that recently got instruments. I'm glad i made the journey, but i don't ever plan to go back.
26 likes
Ray Charles
4/5
Damn awesome execution of this idea. Ray Charles voice is timeless, and though some of the strings and background vocals are a bit overdone, the blues approach to country/western is very cool.
15 likes
The Who
5/5
Anyone who doesn't rate this a 5 doesn't know what they are talking about. This is a nearly perfect album. Epic.
15 likes
Joy Division
4/5
I should have been listening to this in the late 70's, not the Village People and Donna Summer. The dark tone and intensity are great. Very enjoyable.
14 likes
Goldfrapp
3/5
Pleasant but very samey. I've listened to it multiple times, and though the sound is nicely atmospheric, i am not really drawn to any track in particular.
13 likes
1-Star Albums (26)
All Ratings
Violent Femmes
5/5
The Go-Go's
4/5
Okay, I'm ready. This is pretty easy to listen to... Lips ages really well... we got the beat, not as much. Some pretty strong songs mixed in, make this enjoyable.
Grateful Dead
2/5
A couple of known songs, but sounds very samesy and boring.
Led Zeppelin
3/5
Super strong front half, essentially a greatest hits albums... an interesting tempo transition and the backside is probably a bit more experimental and has several zeppelin cover-band sounding songs.
Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
4/5
i have no idea why i like "almost cut my hair" so much... maybe it is the "let my freak flag fly" lyric. though it is a bit dated, there is enough strong songs on the album, and no outright misses that make this an enjoyable listen.
Guns N' Roses
3/5
it's hard to separate this album from the punk-ass bitch that axl is. welcome to the jungle was edgy and energetic in its time... i don't think i need to hear it again. brownstone, paradise, sweet child and rocket queen hold up better. interesting to read that it took this album over a year (june '87 to late '88) after release to find its popularity
Sonic Youth
1/5
This is a strange collection of dissonant sounds, strange chords, screams, and stress. Every time i think i may appreciate a song it devolves into some incomprehensible chaos. Hard to tell if this is some sort of genius or crazy people that recently got instruments. I'm glad i made the journey, but i don't ever plan to go back.
Kid Rock
2/5
Kid Rock is on the same level as Fred Durst for me. The bravado borders more on pathetic, not cool. Fuck kid rock. Still, bullgod alone is worth 1 star, only god and the rest of the album gets one more star.
Lucinda Williams
3/5
Enjoyable folk-country with a sometimes drunk sounding sheryl crow. Drunken Angel is a highlight.
Super Furry Animals
3/5
Very interesting album that seemed to have the campy bombast of a british Rocky Horror Picture Show with the psychedelics turned up two notches and one dose of sex pistols. Reasonably fun listen.
Stereo MC's
3/5
Enjoyable, though probably 25% too much rap and creative background vocals. Still fun to listen to a dance/electronic album with a killer title track.
Nick Drake
1/5
i know it's considered a classic. he was an undergrad in college at the time. but damn, to the beginner ear this sounds like the same layered mush song after song. and i don't think i've ever noticed someone just drag the last syllable of every line on for 3 seconds over and over again.... arrrrrghhhhh!!!! you're killing me nick.
Sigur Rós
4/5
This was way more exciting than expected. It's interesting that even though you can't understand a word, the epic and ethereal nature of the music is really enjoyable.
The Beach Boys
2/5
One star for sonic variety (though that is probably a result of having to listen to a Nick Drake album recently). One star for Disney girls. The rest seems held back by laughably clumsy and heavy handed lyrics. Definitely one strange album.
Al Green
5/5
I feel cool just listening to this. Pretty frickin' fantastic start to finish.
Jimi Hendrix
2/5
Nope. Who thought any of these backing vocals were tolerable? EXP is also a really rough start. Little Wing carries a star... Bold as Love and One Rainy Wish helps. I can leave the rest.
Miles Davis
3/5
I'm on board. An interesting listen that i will probably go back to.
Robbie Williams
3/5
Not as good as I thought it was going to be... still plenty of solid British pop. Angels is amazing.
Tito Puente
3/5
i feel like i need to either go on a cuban vacation or be a contestant on the 1970's Dating Game.
Led Zeppelin
5/5
Legendary
The Jam
5/5
A great album by one of my favorite bands of all time. Extraordinarily British.
Elvis Presley
4/5
Fever is definitely a weird version... so sparse. But given all the other Elvis songs i hadn't heard before, this is a fun, solid list of tracks. Worth a listen.
N.W.A.
4/5
Certainly straight outta compton and f* the police are all time classics. the rest of the album doesn't quite age as well... lots of horns, percussion, record scratching that reminds me of Run DMC. I'm not the 1 is awesome too, though predictably non-PC, like the whole album.
The Smashing Pumpkins
4/5
It definitely holds up... some exceptional songs and a surprisingly heavy sound. I think about Today as representative for Siamese Dream, but there are so many more aggressive songs.
The Doors
4/5
Wasn't sure how much i was going to enjoy this as it's been forever since i listened to it. It is still amazing... even though "the end" gets up its own navel a bit. Love Crystal Ship.
The Style Council
3/5
Though i'm a huge paul weller fan and there is some cool, soulful lounge act music in here (with a few amazing songs)... there is also enough embarrassing lounge rap that it's hard to enjoy the whole album.
The Band
3/5
Solid rustic country folk rock... was hoping there were more standouts. Tears of rage and the weight were strong... interesting lyrics on long black veil. Enjoyable.
Tina Turner
3/5
Some very interesting covers (and then there was 1984...). Seemed pretty uneven with just a couple of standout tracks.
John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers
3/5
Pretty diverse blues sound. Enjoyable.
Pulp
4/5
Alanis Morissette
5/5
Yes, she's angsty. But it's great writing, passionate songs. Really diverse and a great listen. I have to let my OCD relax listening to Ironic given that nearly all of her examples aren't really irony. Oi vey.
Kraftwerk
3/5
It is electronic. Nice to explore another genre, though admittedly it was pretty repetitive and i couldn't figure out what makes it compelling. Nothing too catchy or gets you moving. Still fine, nothing to push the listener away.
The Who
5/5
Anyone who doesn't rate this a 5 doesn't know what they are talking about. This is a nearly perfect album. Epic.
2/5
Just not very entertaining or catchy. A bit long and nothing i would really turn back to.
Sade
4/5
Definitely cool and seductive soul. Still enjoyable and worth revisiting.
David Bowie
4/5
It's epic Bowie. Glam and decadence. It's amazing how layered the rock sound is. Other than the strange Let's Spend the Night cover, it is solid and has several absolute classics.
Cornershop
2/5
Pretty diverse and funky world music, but i don't really love anything here. Brimful was a song i really didn't like in the late 90's and though it may be the catchiest song on this album, i'm still not a fan.
The Flaming Lips
5/5
Love this album. Fun, creative, quirky.
Finley Quaye
2/5
I don't get it. I little weird alternative funk reggae. Nothing too unpleasant but nothing i really want to listen to again.
Miles Davis
3/5
Solid album, bet given my newness to Jazz, i can't figure out what to love or hate about it. A fine listen.
Arrested Development
3/5
It's like a collection of funky schoolhouse rock, or Hamilton if there were only a few catchy tracks. Props to Arrested Development for a meaningful albums, but most of the tracks are more interesting to listen to than enjoyable.
Sister Sledge
3/5
Welcome back to Disco! It seems sweet and light... like cotton candy. Nothing controversial...
John Martyn
3/5
i really like the noodling and atmosphere on small hours to finish the album. the rest is fine... seems like a sedated eric clapton or joe cocker.
2/5
I'm sorry. Bob might be great, and some of these songs classics, but his live recording really emphasize his end of phrase dylanesque up-talking. It's distracting. Nothing really amazing here.
John Lennon
5/5
Epic.
Joy Division
4/5
I should have been listening to this in the late 70's, not the Village People and Donna Summer. The dark tone and intensity are great. Very enjoyable.
Paul Simon
3/5
solid album, a few enjoyable tracks. a bunch that are just okay
Leonard Cohen
3/5
It's pretty solid. Definitely a folksy introspective Paul Simon vibe with clearly the focus on deeper than average lyrics. Though good, not something I'm likely to revisit.
The La's
3/5
There She Goes is amazing, though nothing else really comes that close on the album. It's all fine, but nothing very remarkable.
Ride
4/5
Had not heard this before, though reminds me a lot of Ned's Atomic Dustbin and God Fodder. I can better understand what shoegaze is after listening to this. Very enjoyable.
Creedence Clearwater Revival
2/5
It really has an amazing selection of tracks from the era... but i went from appreciating it to not being able to listen to fogerty's voice a long time ago. It deserves better than this, but "rain" and "light" are the only bearable songs.
Isaac Hayes
2/5
Indeed it is a soundtrack from the 70's. Theme from Shaft is the most entertaining... both lyrics and background vocals that chant "SHAFT!"
Drive Like Jehu
3/5
Damn. Aggressive as heck. It's like scentless apprentice, from start to finish. I think if i was in the mood i'd like this more and more. Still solid.
Beastie Boys
5/5
It is ridiculously amazing. It is helpful to have the context that the absurdity is tongue-in-cheek , and makes the album a bit more timeless than just a frat-bro album from the 80's. The rhymin' and energy are pure fun.
Dire Straits
4/5
Solid album, start to finish. Not my favorite Dire Straits album, but enjoyable to listen to time after time.
The Waterboys
4/5
Damn i LOVE that title track. okay, stolen child is really bad. rest of the album is actually pretty enjoyable.
Quicksilver Messenger Service
2/5
sometime when the groove works, it really goes. then... most of the time... it's just a bunch of psychedelic noodling.
Cyndi Lauper
4/5
Though it definitely drops off on the last few songs, the first 7 are pretty impressive. Not a Cyndi Lauper fan, but a really good pop album.
My Bloody Valentine
2/5
there are some "3" songs on this album... just not enough of them. thought i'd like it more, but too much non-differentiated droning. so many folks say this is a 5... i tried again. i just don't get it.
The Who
3/5
Not the concept album i really needed. Certainly interesting.
B.B. King
3/5
Apparently 1965 was a little bit of a sexist time. Outside of that, How Blue Can You Get is awesome and the rest of the album definitely solid. I could go back and listen again.
The Pharcyde
3/5
Really well written and solid music. Best: Otha Fish, Worst: the Skits. The overall silliness is a bit too much... they think they are too funny, but you can certainly say it is very well put together.
Rush
5/5
This album is epic. I was originally into rush during their peak, but enjoyed some songs. This is really adventurous and ambitious. Will definitely be listening to this on occasion.
John Prine
3/5
cheeky hippie folk music unmistakably from the early 70's. there are definitely some clever smiles generated, but it's hard to love it given that it is for a distant time and place.
Arctic Monkeys
4/5
It's just a fun, rambunctions rock record. The songs are pretty catchy, lyrics fun, energetic, with a few minor tempo changes. Very good.
Steely Dan
3/5
Enjoyable and easy to listen to. Pretty close to 4, but I probably won’t really return to it.
Goldfrapp
3/5
It sounds a lot like a James Bond soundtrack. Enjoyable.
Radiohead
4/5
Very adventurous album, a bit challenging at times. Has two of my favorite Radiohead songs (All I Need and Reckoner). Very strong
Thelonious Monk
3/5
Definitely enjoyable, but all the nuance in jazz is lost on me. Hard Bop tends to be most my space and i could listen to this again, but i'm sure i wouldn't recognize any of these pieces.
Sam Cooke
4/5
Solid fun album with lots of great songs in a live setting. A touch of sexism from a bygone era, but overall a really enjoyable listen.
MGMT
4/5
Handful of excellent tracks; fun, experimental, electronic and catchy. This was the album that got me into MGMT, and remains their best release.
Beatles
5/5
Amazing album. 5 star lock.
Richard Hawley
2/5
unexpected. this is like "music to die slowly to".. music for an old folks home. i feel like i'm getting older listening to it. some pat boone 50's thing going on here. pretty boring... born under a bad sign has some morrissey potential in it, but otherwise forgettable.
The Pogues
5/5
i love this album.
Happy Mondays
3/5
Totally fine and ordinary. I think i remember Step On from back in the day, but don't particularly like it. The rest of the tracks a de facto alternative pop. It could have been my jam back in the day, but doesn't hold up too well for the new listener. Fine.
Talking Heads
4/5
I'm going to ignore the song Animals. The rest is the right amount of adventurous and fun. Funky and experimental, and just cool.
AC/DC
5/5
i shouldn't have to comment on this album. i've been regularly listening to it for 40 years. it's amazing.
Serge Gainsbourg
2/5
so, i actually liked the music. had a good grove, cool bass and string instruments. the angel harmonies on cargo cult were a plus. i didn't need the beat-poet french william shatner talking over a bunch of songs, and the en melody female noises were a bit over the top. almost 3.
Orbital
3/5
Last couple of tracks drag a bit long, but overall good electronic groove.
Cream
2/5
Not my cup of tea. Though i have fondness for the small faces (Ogden's Nut), it doesn't work as well for me here and the psychedelic era fuzzy guitar sound doesn't hold me.
Paul McCartney and Wings
4/5
An enjoyable album. Clearly band on the run is the shining star, but there's enough quirkiness and melody that carries through it to be a very fun listen.
Travis
3/5
What if radiohead was mediocre and generally uninteresting? Travis. She's So Strange and Rain On Me are strong, but the album doesn't carry enough passion and interest to raise it into a 4 or 5.
Buzzcocks
2/5
Unfortunately this was a bit boring. It is certainly a time from punks origins, but it sounds like a watered-down Sex Pistols and the songs aren't very interesting and the vocals aren't angry enough.
Tom Waits
3/5
That was a very fun introduction to Tom Waits. I even liked the beat poet sections; the album was lyrically interesting and musically diverse without being too challenging. I would look forward to more Tom Waits.
Traffic
3/5
Empty pages and barleycorn are really good. Though the psychedelic jazz and flute shenanigans are a bit too thick at times.
Bad Brains
3/5
Definitely high energy, angry, loud and really solid record. The last two songs peter out and end up holding it back from a 4.
Nas
3/5
Strong. Great attitude and energy. Strong lyrical content and i'm into Nas' rapping style.
A Tribe Called Quest
2/5
Can't do it. I recognize the lyrical effort but i cannot stand the underlying soft jazz beat music and the completely disconnected rap... there's no energy. Scenario is the only song that carries it.
Suicide
3/5
It is interesting and unusual. Not necessarily too sonically creative in places (sparse electronic sound with repeating drumbeat)... but the crazy frankie teardrop has some wild swings. Giving them props.
Public Enemy
4/5
I like Chuck D. This album is varied, strongly written, and is a blast to play loud. Flavor gets on my nerves a bit, but he lets it loose in the right places.
Joy Division
2/5
I enjoyed the groove/power of Isolation and Means to an End, but there was just a little too much that was pretty uninteresting.
The Jesus And Mary Chain
3/5
It took a while to get through this. I've listened to Darklands a lot and enjoy it, though this is less moody and a lot more fuzz feedback. It it interesting to have it blended with pop harmonies, so I give them props even though it isn't an easy listen (i feels longer than 39 minutes).
R.E.M.
5/5
I was already a giant R.E.M. fan when this came out... and this is clearly one of their best. A spectacular album.
Isaac Hayes
2/5
For the first two songs, i was totally on board (awesome groove on supercalifragalistik... or whatever that was called). But then Isaac started talking too much. And i'm not really into his "man as a victim" garbage. I don't think i need to say much about song #4.
The Temptations
2/5
it the entire album was just papa was a rolling stone, it would get 4 stars... however, somewhere these are not the temptations i know, and somebody taught them the n word in song 2 that sounds out of place. really mediocre outside of one stellar song.
Ray Charles
4/5
Damn awesome execution of this idea. Ray Charles voice is timeless, and though some of the strings and background vocals are a bit overdone, the blues approach to country/western is very cool.
T. Rex
4/5
Totally surprising. I thought it was going to be dumb Bang A Gong, but it was actually a pretty cool Bowie variant. Enjoyed.
Creedence Clearwater Revival
3/5
CCR really grates on me, but there's no doubt it is solid and Wrote a Song was a cool surprise I didn't know. Still, John Fogerty's too drawlish voice isn't my thing, down 1 star.
The Coral
2/5
The alternative side plays okay at times, but the psychedelic takes over a bit too much to want to listen to it again. Definitely takes a dive towards the end.
Lenny Kravitz
4/5
Hippie, soulful, that can definitely find it's groove and rock. It amazingly keeps interest up even though the tracks clock in at almost an hour.
Ladysmith Black Mambazo
4/5
So peaceful and soothing.
Queen
3/5
Killer Queen is clearly the standout, but the album has enough interesting bites to keep it interesting.
Björk
3/5
I unfortunately respect it more than i enjoy it. It has some very creative and experimental swings amidst a few wonderful songs.
Devendra Banhart
2/5
Pretty mellow though it occasionally takes some weird/quirky turns. I am generally easy to onboard with some alternative/folk, but i'm not a big fan of the delivery/style here.
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
3/5
A bit of a challenging listen, but unique, energetic, and has enough engaging tracks to make it worth spinning.
Fleet Foxes
3/5
Pleasant harmonies and easy to listen to. Unfortunately not much stands out and makes it memorable. I like it as a pretty unique sound.
Kendrick Lamar
3/5
I want to like this album... there's clearly a lot of meaningfuly perspective and involved lyrics, but the only song that i actually wanted to listen to over again was King Kunta. Give props due to complexity, though Kendrick's voice isn't my thing... give me Chuck D or Nas.
Mercury Rev
3/5
It's pretty cool and reminds me of a Flaming Lips type sounds. I particularly liked the aggressive noise of Funny Bird.
Randy Newman
4/5
I enjoy Randy Newman's laid back style while mixing satire and cheeky commentary. Enjoyable album.
The Slits
2/5
it is just too weird. this ska/reggae/rock with little melody and off-kilter vocals. probably an acquired taste.
Ghostface Killah
4/5
I like the style and flow. Enjoyable hip-hop/r&b variant of rap, with creativity, color and an attitude.
The Clash
5/5
Classic and essential. Intelligent, snarky punk.
UB40
4/5
I really like the UB40 vibe. There are some good songs in the mix, and the tail end of the album really fines a nice groove. In the middle there is a slight sameness... i'll still round up a little bit since i like the sound.
Baaba Maal
2/5
Man it was long. And the last 3 songs became irritating. At first it was colorful though the vocalizations are definitely not my thing... a little friendly sound at times. But it was pretty boring and a chore to get through.
Elis Regina
2/5
Only non apple itunes one so far. The music was interesting, but never felt i was enjoying the groove from it. Pretty much all the up tempo tracks ruin the vibe for me, and not much worth revisiting here.
Pavement
3/5
A couple way out there songs, but otherwise a strong alternative set. A bit less melodic, but still strongly written and interesting.
Maxwell
2/5
It is just too slow and uninteresting. Too much of it sounds the same and there's nothing that is particularly catchy or stands out.
Billy Joel
5/5
Holy toledo. This is an entire career on a single album. Pretty damn impressive.
The Teardrop Explodes
3/5
Definitely a bit long, and has a bit of a rockier echo & the bunnymen flair. If i grew up with them, i'd probably like it more. There are some odd ducks mixed in there as well.
Metallica
4/5
The Thing that Should Not Be and Sanitarium are some of the best hard rock/metal tracks ever. Solid album, though slightly less interesting on the back half.
Sly & The Family Stone
2/5
I don't get it. I'm not sure there's much enjoyable about this album and wtf on song 2. certainly not an album for people looking for hidden meaning in lyrics. outside of everyday people, this isn't worth listening to.
Thundercat
1/5
I did it! i made it through this album. Holy Jesus. I think Drink Dat is the only tolerable song, the rest is just not fun. Can't do it.
The Divine Comedy
3/5
No idea what to expect. Bombastic rich lounge music? It kept my attention.
Prince
3/5
A really diverse and interesting album. Though there's only a couple of real highlights, nothing is really tragic... a lot in the middle of the road. It is a bit long though.
The Crusaders
2/5
Yeah, smooth jazz. It certainly doesn't do anything really to offend, though it's a bit 70's boring and there is certainly nothing interesting lyrically going on. Meh.
Fred Neil
2/5
I wanted to like it... i get the not exactly one genre thing going on... rock/folk/country. But the dolphins certainly didn't speak to me, and i'm not sure if anything else is interesting enough to listen to multiple times.
Led Zeppelin
4/5
A classic that still rocks. Always enjoyable to revisit.
Julian Cope
2/5
The music is the most interesting aspect of this, as i'm not a big fan of his delivery or lyrics; though they have a message, it isn't enough to hope my interest. Overstays its welcome and drags on.
The Divine Comedy
3/5
I like the swagger and style. Most of it is pretty interesting, and there's a chance i could get more into it with more time. A high 3.
Air
4/5
This had a great mood and drifted into an instrumental feel of yoshimi and the pink robots. i think i was 100% on board and into it and then the last song hit. though it adds depth/interest, i think all future listens will stop 1 track short.
The The
3/5
i really like the the. soul mining is an amazing album... this one is good, but there's just not enough on it to push it into the 4 category. a very strong 3.
5/5
Incredible. Epic. Interesting. Lyrically diverse. An all time classic.
Bert Jansch
2/5
Just boring. Sure, it's folksy and unoffensive, lyrics are interesting... but 15 songs in 40 minutes of the same tones and finger picking. It just sounds the same. Blah.
The Incredible String Band
1/5
I will never smoke enough dope or drop enough acid to make me want to listen to this again. Minstrels at a Renaissance fair.
Weather Report
2/5
Birdland is cool, and definitely a standout. Definitely reminiscent of a jazzy TV show intro. The rest is a bit blah techo jazzy that seems pretty dated.
Brian Eno
3/5
It is certainly diverse and experimental... i think i like the ambient/instrumental pieces more than the lyrical ones (come running to tie your shoe?!?). They are creative, though doesn't fit as something i'll listen to more.
Dennis Wilson
4/5
Easy to enjoy. River Song and Pacific Ocean Blues stand out for me, though there is little to not like. Cool soft rock vibe with a light Beach Boys influence.
2Pac
4/5
A strong badass rap album. I'm better with his use of colorful language than Sly & the family stone. It has gut, authenticity and Dear Mama is a great song.
Missy Elliott
3/5
This is solid. Made me like Missy Elliott more than before i listened. Interesting extra messages from her, though why is everything an "EXCLUSIVE"? Good energy.
Bruce Springsteen
4/5
There are some all time greats, The Promised Land and Racing in the Streets. It's really close to a 5, but I don't think it quite to that level for me.
808 State
3/5
Pacific 202 and 808080808 are just banging, but the rest just get a head nod here and there. Solid, but nothing outstanding or timeless.
Leonard Cohen
2/5
"Everybody Knows" says this album wants a 3+ rating. "Jazz Police" says it should be a 2.
Minutemen
3/5
These guys are way easier to appreciate than they are to enjoy. I generally enjoy the late 70's early 80's punk, and the minutemen showed an amazing diversity and experimental side across 40+ tracks. However, I'm not enough of a fan of D. Boon's voice and delivery which is too frequently passionless for punk. I'd much rather listen to Husker Du or Black Flag.
Sarah Vaughan
2/5
i wanted to like it more. a simple jazz sound with nice classic vocals. however, the vocals were clearly the focus, but didn't really hold any passion for me. it also seemed over vocalized and playful in a gimicky way. I honestly would have preferred David Lee Roth's version of Just a Gigolo.
Janis Joplin
2/5
She has passion and that blues energy. Credit there. And the story/feeling of the songs are fine. But i really find her voice repelling, and i just can't say that i want to listen to any of these songs ever again.
Lauryn Hill
4/5
It is just plain strong. Beautiful voice, great beat, positive message. The title track is probably the least interesting, but the rest are easy to enjoy.
The Sugarcubes
4/5
I'm back in. Life's Too Good is fun and varied. Energy and bjork's quirky singing bring it all together. OK, Dragon is a curveball, but overall, an enjoyable alt pop album.
Talvin Singh
2/5
It starts better than it finishes. I like the atmospheric electronic world music as it ebbs and flows, but by the time we get to O.K., they've let Yoko Ono loose on this album and the squeeling and high energy makes it interesting but not entertaining.
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
3/5
Clearly a couple of strong tracks on the album, but a lot of other "meh" tracks. Nothing too rough, but also nothing that begs for additional listens. Certainly better Tom Petty albums to listen to.
3/5
Good fortune is a great song and certainly evokes a Chrissie Hynde vibe. Album was quite varied with a cool Thom Yorke cameo. Enjoyable but i don't expect to listen to it again.
Soul II Soul
3/5
The music, rhythm and vibe is what makes this album excellent. Creative and energetic.
Alexander 'Skip' Spence
2/5
This starts a nicely melodic psychedelic folk country album with lots of creative songs. Then at about Afro/Grey is steers toward a much more random sequence of "songs". Takes a bit hit at the midway point.
Black Sabbath
3/5
Solid rock entry. Paranoid and War Pigs are standouts for me, though i don't think there's enough to hold my attention on lots of repeat listens. Definitely like Ozzy's voice.
Boston
4/5
Solid. You already know all the hits, though i was pleasantly surprised that the remaining tracks are also enjoyable continuing with the Boston sound.
Hole
3/5
A somewhat uneven album, that doesn't quite contain the passion/angst of live through this and adds a layer of polish that dilutes the predecessors energy. Awful and Celebrity Skin are highlights.
Black Sabbath
4/5
I'm on board. Ozzy is great. Snowblind is great. Though there were plenty of songs i didn't know, i thought they were solid, hard and would definitely listen again.
Roxy Music
2/5
Suprisingly "out there", and hard not to compare to Ziggy Stardust, which came out at the same time and is epic experimental rock. This is pretty uneven, some interesting Bryan Ferry warbles, but the music doesn't hold my attention.
Roxy Music
3/5
Back to back Roxy Music albums. This one is more approachable, still experimental, but ultimately successful. Though the warble goes a bit overboard, i like the emotion and delivery of Bryan Ferry.
Neil Young
3/5
A compelling Neil Young album; he's even able to pull off using "Albuquerque" in a lyric. The emotion is strong, and the lyrics are interesting, but the melodies/music don't have me wanting to come back too often.
Ravi Shankar
2/5
I liked the slower portions, like Bhimpalasi, then the shred your face with Sitar sections... but still 50 minutes of any solo instrument is difficult to get anything besides "interesting". He demonstrates a crazy talent, but not sure when i'd ever want to put this on again.
Depeche Mode
5/5
I feel like this is the sweet spot for Depeche Mode's music. It is moving past the poppier sound and headed more towards brooding. An amazing album.
Emmylou Harris
2/5
Emmylou has a nice voice, but this old style twangy saccharine heavily-god leaning country seems very disposable. Very dated. Hank and Lefty was OK.
Joni Mitchell
4/5
Though twisted is a little out there, the album is sophisticated, engaging and very enjoyable to listen to. Help Me stands out, but i also liked the energy of raised on robbery and the mood of the same situation.
Jimi Hendrix
4/5
I'm not the biggest Jimi Hendrix fan, but there is no denying the power, originality and influence of this album. Amazing energy and holds up well.
Fugees
3/5
The highs are really high on this album, and the effort is special, particularly for the time and where rap and hip-hop were. The talent is there, but there's just too much throw away that's not actually that enjoyable.
Santana
3/5
Though pretty dated and is clearly the showcase for black magic woman & oye como va, it is a solid and energetic, groove-infused album. Not a giant fan of the date electronic keyboards and percussion as the message, but still give props.
Elbow
3/5
Enjoyable. Grounds for Divorce is stellar and the rest of the album has good layers and atmosphere.
Circle Jerks
3/5
I enjoy old-school socal hardcore punk. nothing nuanced about it. just a blast of energy. sadly there's nothing that's amazing about this, just solid attitude.
3/5
X sounds best when John and Exene are singing together. It's a little off kilter, but the energy is gives off is fantastic. Pretty consistently good album, though nothing that is amazing.
Nick Drake
4/5
Much more enjoyable than my last Nick Drake experience. Pink Moon is amazing and the remaining tracks are a bit more engaging, memorable, and though not "pop hits", are more enjoyable.
Orange Juice
2/5
I don't know if they invented a bunch of things or they sound like some weird amalgamation of a variety of 80's bands. Unfortunately they don't sound as good as a lot of their peers... maybe a mediocre Style Council.
Everything But The Girl
3/5
Pleasant. I like the vocals and the soothing electronic vibe... when it's good it's really good. However, much of the album is just okay, not enough hooks to keep me coming back.
Penguin Cafe Orchestra
3/5
It has several enjoyable pieces, Chartered Flight, Giles Farnaby's Dream, but it also gets dissonant frequently and loses it's charm. An interesting listen.
Kraftwerk
2/5
A surprising amount of high pitched tinny electronic music. The Model is cool, but nothing here really excites me or makes me want to explore this style of electronic music.
Abdullah Ibrahim
4/5
i am surprised at how much i like this. the mellow saxophone and cool jazz vibe make it easy to appreciate and enjoy. it doesn't quite maintain that epic feel for the whole duration, but really solid.
Robert Wyatt
1/5
WTF. this is one of the more unlistenable things we've come across. the jabberwocky lyrical content (i can't tell if they are lyrics or backward masked sounds most of the time), and the whole thing is psychedulic, dissonant mumbo jumbo.
The Disposable Heroes Of Hiphoprisy
3/5
Definitely like the delivery and seriousness. It paints an interesting picture of the era and the issues/concerns/challenges. It feels more like a story and though i give incredible props to the content, it's not something that i would gravitate to listening multiple times. Still impressive and enjoyable on the first listen.
Talking Heads
3/5
Love House in Motion and Once in a Lifetime. It's such an interesting and unusual sound, and David Byrne's delivery fits perfectly. It's close to a 4, but a lot of the tracks aren't quite as memorable.
The Beau Brummels
3/5
Surprisingly holds up well. Their folk/rock/pop sound is enjoyable with a tiny/acceptable amount of minstrel mixed in. I thought it was strong, but didn't really love any track... just pretty consistent and can be appreciated.
Machito
3/5
I'm mostly giving props for the energy and engaging sound. The cuban influence of lots of brass and brasher jazz limits how much i want to listen to it again, but overall the african-cuban jazz sound is pretty cool.
Eurythmics
3/5
It's fine. Sweet Dreams and Love Is A Stranger stand out, the rest is fine but not catchy enough to excite. Nothing is really bad, but nothing really great.
The Fall
2/5
The music is actually well done and I've definitely gotten into the groove on It's A Curse and Glam-Racket. Unfortunately i really don't like the lead singers mumble-talk delivery on these tracks. Not really that enjoyable.
Moby
5/5
It could potentially get 5 stars for Porcelain alone, but the album is also undeniably strong, innovative and enjoyable. Even the instrumentals like Everloving hold their own if a very long 18 track release. Fantastic.
Soft Cell
4/5
Definitely a surprise. I like the dark electronic mood/sound and marc almond's voice. Say Hello, Secret Life and Sex Dwarf are great in addition to Tainted Love. Very enjoyable.
Belle & Sebastian
4/5
It grew on me pretty quick... I liked Expectations and The State I'm In the most, though the rest of the album was enjoyable as well (Electronic Renaissance probably the least). Mellow style and engaging lyrics.
Elliott Smith
4/5
I had a hard time initially getting Elliott Smith's wispy vocals and folk guitar sameness. After repeated listens, I really like the introspection in the lyrics, the subtle variety of additional instruments on some tracks and the melodic nature of the songs. It is really good. Big fan of Cupid's Trick, Angeles, and Alameda.
Jorge Ben Jor
3/5
strong fun energetic album. even though there's not a word on it i understand, i enjoyed the cool brazilian sound. almost a 4, but i don't think i'll really return to this.
Blue Cheer
1/5
Mercifully it is only 32 minute long. I loathe this music. Psychedelic fuzz-box trashy blues with dumb lyrics and regularly finds ways to travel up its own butt with unlistenable noodling solos.
The Who
3/5
You can definitely give props for the rock opera attempt... it is interesting, and something that i amazingly love when it comes to quadrophenia. this album doesn't have any great songs (i'm free and pinball wizard are probably my least "favorite" popular who tracks). still originality and style shine through.
The Black Keys
5/5
The is really a fabulous album. The gritty blues rock is so well done... every song seems to find a groove and warrants a repeat listen. Having a hard time deciding between a 4 and a 5, but I think it shines well enough for the 5. Awesome.
The Beach Boys
3/5
So, this is the definitive pop album of all time? There are clearly the bangers: sloop john b, wouldn't it be nice and god only knows that stand out. but honestly, that's really it. everything else seems nice, but not catchy. it's the equivalent if it was a song of verses, but no chorus. it sounds nice, but it doesn't really end up being very catchy for me.
R.E.M.
4/5
Love R.E.M., though i think every album they released prior to this was better (recognizing this gave them a ton of radio play). Still some great songs... particularly like the peculiar Oddfellows Local.
Bruce Springsteen
4/5
You get a classic Bruce Springsteen album... heartfelt, meaningful and straight ahead rock. Though it runs a little long, pretty much everything is enjoyable from the louder more energetic Worlds Apart to the more wistful Nothing Man. Really good album.
Frank Black
4/5
A fabulous stand-in for a true Pixies album, though the double-album length certainly seems to wear a little thin towards the end (the last 2 songs seems throwaway). Still, enough angst and energy to thoroughly enjoy.
The Police
4/5
Though it has some less melodic and more interesting pieces... and there is probably a whole star removed for Mother being here... the album is still great to revisit with multiple exceptional songs... in addition to the bigger hits, I really enjoy Murder by Numbers.
Bob Dylan
3/5
holy crap. this album has serious highs and lows. i cannot stand the first two songs, "most likely..." and "obviously fine" ... it seems like they are cliches of bad blues music, but visions of Johanna and stuck inside are excellent. there's a lot to digest, but credit on the variety.
Bill Evans Trio
3/5
I still don't get jazz. Can 3 people seemingly be playing their own song at the same time and it not sound bad. I guess the answer is yes, but it also doesn't sound great either. There are a few times in Solar and All of You where i found that i was getting into the groove and it was working for me... but too often the bass line would go from "vibing" to "annoying" like a gnat constantly flying around my face. I'll give them credit for what they're doing, but it isn't something i'll return to. I definitely enjoy Bill Evans' piano work. Impressive.
Elastica
3/5
It's all pretty good, solid enjoyable album. Kinda an gritty rock version of Garbage. I didn't find a lot of standouts however, no tracks that i would have to listen to again.
Slint
3/5
Certainly not an easy album to approach. Lots of spoken word... some strange bastard between a psychedelic Doors song and In Utero from Nirvana. It's best when it has it's dark noisy groove on... i particularly liked parts of Washer and the angry end of Good Morning, Captain.
Miriam Makeba
3/5
Miriam has a rich voice and it definitely shares an interesting variety of songs... from the click song to the naughty little flea.. not sure what to make of one more dance. I like her take on House of the Rising Sun... overall the album is enjoyable, though not sure i would choose to listen to more from Miriam.
Lambchop
3/5
I am not sure what this was. The music is interesting and sweeping at times, though the vocals seems to alternate between a whispering falsetto and spoken word. I actually like the music, though the singing seems to detract from the vibe instead of enhancing it. Still, i don't actually dislike it, so a straight-up 3 seems to fit.
Electric Light Orchestra
5/5
ELO seems to stand in a genre of their own... majestic orchestral rock. Jeff Lynne's songwriting is fantastic, the music is catchy, with a pretty impressive variety of approaches on the album. Even with 17 tracks... i can listen to this on repeat for an entire day. Love it.
Tim Buckley
2/5
This is not my music. It sounds like a lot of rock-blues musical cliches and the lyrics constantly bounce between stupid and misogynistic... doesn't really hold up over the years. Make It Right was slightly tolerable.
Underworld
3/5
There are definitely times that the groove is infectious and you are thumping along with it, though it is strangely disappointing that the vocals are as uninteresting as they are. They seem to hold it back as opposed to elevating it. Overall an enjoyable listen.
Siouxsie And The Banshees
2/5
Thought i would like this more as i like some later albums. Nothing was particularly noteworthy on the album, as i didn't find anything catchy... if anything, it just felt long and didn't hold my attention.
Van Morrison
5/5
Absolutely stellar. The first half is exceptionally strong... passionate and catchy. Though it peters off a little bit, Van Morrison delivers an amazing album.
Steve Earle
4/5
Wow surprising. I like the songs and his voice.... it gets a little too twangy at times, but this is solid from start to finish. Really enjoyed Fearless Heart.
Heaven 17
1/5
Detestable. It's been a while... since the Incredible String Band that's i've actively disliked track after track. It is amazingly dated... and shouldn't have been allowed to escape the 80's. The electronic/synth sounds/beats are unpleasant. Nothing redeeming here.
Massive Attack
3/5
Musically solid. The vibe, the beat... enjoyable and a good listen. I actually think the vocal style really detracts from it, however... in too many instances (male voice) it is too plain and uninteresting. I'd rather just have the groove.
The Black Crowes
3/5
4 really solid enjoyable songs. The remaining are probably great in a local live bar-band setting, as it is gritty bluesy rock with energy and passion. Unfortunately they are largely forgettable and aren't enough to come back to to warrant a 4 star rating. Still good.
Carpenters
2/5
Wow. I was looking forward to this. I clearly know the hits, and they still are amazing. What do the Carpenters sound like outside of the hits? It is unfortunate, they clearly depend on their harmonies to carry the tune, but it isn't enough over a couple of bad covers, and lyrically empty, candy-sweet, non-catchy pop-ish crooners. Thanks they give boy carpenter only one song to lead, and the experimental tail of the album only needs one listening. Stick to this hits, listeners, and you'll more likely appreciate the Carpenters more.
Iron Butterfly
3/5
Significantly better than i expected, only because i have low low expectations from what i perceive as psychedelic fuzz rock. The obnoxious distortion wasn't really present and though there were some dated instruments, it wasn't distracting. The tracks were fine and even 17 minutes of in-a-gadda-da-vida were well measured.
Steve Winwood
4/5
Nothing else on the album nears the peak of "while you see a chance", but the album is largely enjoyable and though i'd skip second-hand woman if listening to it, and songs like night train find a great groove.
Dinosaur Jr.
3/5
Definitely enjoyed the energy... it reminds me of Death Cab live when they become an unhinged noisy full bore rock band. I'm not as big of a fan of the mumble lyrics, which are solid when you read (or can understand them). There's not enough melody to hold me, but Raisans and Tarpit are strong. The angry Just Like Heaven cover is also highly entertaining.
Bee Gees
3/5
Pretty fascinating. Though nothing matches "how can you men", the rest of the album is pretty solid. It has moments that evoke the beatles/john lennon and even david bowie. The music is albeit a little mellow/slow, though it still holds up today. If they had something else that was catchy on it, it would be a 4, but comes just a bit short in my book.
Elton John
4/5
Though it fades a little bit on the back half, Tiny Dancer and Madman are exceptional, with several other solid pieces, including Holiday Inn and Levon. The music doesn't sound dated, and Elton John's voice is certainly amazing in this era.
Super Furry Animals
3/5
Seems an interesting, diverse landscape of an album. "Rings around the world" and "it's not the end of the world" are a good part of a strong start. The instrumental experimentation is nice, though "no sympathy" was a little too off-kilter for my tastes. Nothing that really calls me back to listen to again, but a pleasant enjoyable album.
Emmylou Harris
2/5
It's not quite as country twangy as where we started 26 years ago, but the music is still pretty boring. Pretty voice, but a slow pace and nothing particularly catchy to hang onto. Snooze-fest.
Madonna
3/5
There are some enjoyable pop tracks in here, and some small gems (pray for spanish eyes), but there's just a lot that seems just "ok" and pretty forgettable. Still nicely varied.
Curtis Mayfield
3/5
The first three songs are great... really enjoy the groove of Billy Jack, but somewhere around Jesus, it gets a bit more ordinary. An enjoyable listen, but falls a step down from classic.
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
3/5
I guess you have to give him credit for sticking to a theme and carrying it all the way through. Definitely story-time song in the Nick Cave style about death. They range in gratuitousness, but are generally consistent and though the last song is probably weaker than the rest, they keep a steady balance through the album. if you're in the mood... this will do it.
Sinead O'Connor
4/5
Quite an impressive album. Though it has some pretty sparse, whispering type tracks... the meat of it: from emperor's new clothes all the way to last day of our acquaitance is quite enjoyable. The songs have meaning and passion.
The Monks
1/5
holy crap. the only thing i can say is that it really is amazing that there is essentially something different to hate about every single song on this album. they are way too much up their own butt with psychedelic clown music.
David Bowie
4/5
Definitely a classic. It's easy to see the complexity of the music and the layers of sounds that still stays within a rock genre but adding ecletic funk and style. Really easy to appreciate this album.
Talking Heads
4/5
Was expecting this to be a more challenging listen, but it is surprisingly consistent, and still has some unusual approaches without deviating too much from an alternative/punk/rock formula to not be easily appreciated. Solid.
M.I.A.
3/5
Paper Planes is still dominant. And i definitely like the world flavor mixed with electronic music that really takes off at the start of the album. I don't think it holds enough all the way through, though there is a lot of creativity and depth in the music and lyrics.
Cat Stevens
3/5
Fine, pretty mellow entry. Wild World certainly stands higher than the rest. The rest is very listenable, but a bit forgettable.
Aretha Franklin
4/5
It was curious... i almost can't stand Respect. Every time i hear it, i want to change the channel. So, even with that discount, this album is still amazing and soulful. Definitely enjoyable.
Dusty Springfield
3/5
A little too mellow for me but I recognize that she has an amazing voice and carries these songs very well. A bit too much sameness and other than Son of a Preacher Man, not sure anything i'd listen to much.
Living Colour
3/5
I expected not to want to revisit this.. i don't have great recollections about Living Colour, but Cult of Personality was way better to listen to again than thinking about it. It holds up. Unfortunately, there's a lot of okay content and then the weird funny vibe. Open Letter is also strong and i give them props for what they were doing at the time.
James Taylor
3/5
Fire and Rain is amazing... and James Taylor's voice is generally soothing, though i could pass on the uptempo Straemroller and really only really enjoy country road. The rest is fine, but leaves it at a 3.
Nightmares On Wax
3/5
It is a long trek to the end, though the music is an interesting assembling of electronic, hip-hop and creating crafting. Nothing that left a permanent mark, but it was an enjoyable journey.
Television
4/5
See No Evil is an absolute banger and this album (if you can vibe with Tom Verlaine's unusual voice) has a great energy and rawness that is enjoyable from start to finish.
The Streets
2/5
There were a couple times during the album i noticed that i was able to enjoy it, but the spoken lyrics with an almost artificial sing-songy pacing were too distracting too much of the time. Layered frequently over minimal music, but the lyrics/stories seemed to be a strength.
Beatles
5/5
Certainly an all time classic.
The Rolling Stones
4/5
Sympathy for the Devil is one of the most amazing songs (fascinating music style/layering and great lyrics). In addition to street fighting man, there are quite a few other strong tracks i wasn't previously familiar with, jigsaw puzzle and stray cat blues. Very enjoyable.
Pentangle
1/5
The dirge was an interesting change of pace and it was interesting to see a broader world music flair, but there wasn't much i enjoyed here. I wasn't a particular fan of the vocal work (both male and female)... and the sound is definitely stuck in the 60's.
Radiohead
5/5
The album that got me into Radiohead. So many amazing songs, even deep into the album. I could listen to it every day.
The Rolling Stones
4/5
Definitely an amazing rock and blues album. Brown Sugar and Wild Horses are clearly the staples, but Bitch, Sister Morphine and Dead Flowers are also fantastic tracks. A bit more bluesy than expected, but very enjoyable.
The Damned
3/5
A solid punk/rock release that holds up. Plan 9 Channel 7 and Love Song are the strongest, though the others carry good energy throughout the album.
Supergrass
3/5
I like the music and voicework, and In It For the Money is a strong start, though i would say G-Song is probably my favorite. The album is fine though not too many standouts to lift it higher.
Spiritualized
3/5
Though there is some adventure and grindiness in across the tracks, for the most part it is pretty listless and atmospheric without really sinking hooks into the listener. I think it is interesting, but not too engaging for me.
Black Sabbath
4/5
A great sound and ozzy's voice is absolutely perfect for this heavy sound. Though it struggles a bit when it hits Wicked World and the last track, the beginning of this album is amazing.
Baaba Maal
3/5
Wasn't sure what to expect. It was enjoyable in that the music was creative, with a very diverse set of instruments and rhythms. As it was senegalese, i didn't understand anything and the vocals were quite forward, i think detracting a bit for me.
Big Star
4/5
This is fantastic. I've listened to Matthew Sweet and the dB's, which likely are closely related descendants. Til the End of the Day is wonderful blistering and the rest of the album is both strong lyrically and musically. Really enjoy the somewhat haphazard energy and delivery.
Kanye West
3/5
When Kanye is good, he's great. His lyrics are engaging and music is adventurous. He has a lot of cool/unique concepts that he is fitting into his hip-hop/rap. However, this does get a bit long, the skits get long in the tooth, and i have no idea why Last Call was a good idea to include on this.
The The
4/5
This is the Day is one of my favorite alternative songs of all time. The album is pretty strong with a unique cool casual vibe. Definitely the peak of The The offerings.
Radiohead
5/5
If it weren't for Fitter Happier, this would probably be as close to a perfect album as there is. Climbing Up the Walls is so powerful, with amazing track after track.
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
4/5
I Want You and Battered Old Bird are amazing. The album from start to finish is lyrically engaging and exudes a passion and hard edge from Elvis Costello.
Fiona Apple
3/5
The first four songs of this album are some of the strongest on any album... but then it quickly loses its way. It becomes meandering and boring very quickly, and it only finds a minor twinkle in The Child is Gone and Carrion.
Taylor Swift
5/5
Fricking pop magic.
The Notorious B.I.G.
2/5
BIG has flow. He voice and attitude are great. And though i'm generally okay with the gangster approach, i tired of the misogyny/bitch content quickly, and much of the album wasn't nearly as engaging as i had expected from this seminal release.
Wilco
2/5
I wanted to like this more. This seems to be in my musical wheelhouse, but it came to me an competent but generally uninteresting. It began to blur together.
Duran Duran
5/5
I want my MTV. This is truly a pop gem that definitely transcends the synth era. Enjoyable from start to finish.
Nitin Sawhney
2/5
Though there are a number of times that the music finds its vibe and balances electronic, classical, jazz, and indian music, nothing strikes me as very compelling. On the other hand, The Conference, Nadia and Pilgrim are irritating and felt like suffering to make it to the end of the track. Some highs, but more lows on this.
Beach House
3/5
It nice, peaceful, and frequently ethereal. I enjoy the sound, but after listening to it several times, i feel like i lose my place and have no idea what song i'm listening to. It is pleasant but very samey.
The Rolling Stones
4/5
A very strong start, though drags a bit by the end i feel like they were just solid blues/rock songs, though not much at the end stands out. Still enjoyable.
The Avalanches
3/5
Definitely interesting in how many samples and layers exist in these songs. I feel like it has Moby Play and Kanye MDTF on steroids. Many of the songs work, I really enjoy Electricity, the vibe of Etoh, Psychiatrist and Since I Left You. Too many others feel like unsuccessful experiments.
Kanye West
4/5
When Kanye is on, he is fantastic. Bold, brash, inventive, always fascinating. Though as an old white man, i won't be singing along with many of these lyrics, it really is awesome.
Paul Weller
4/5
Though it gets a bit long towards the end, there's enough strong songs and soulful/passionate performance, that i really enjoyed Paul Weller's delivery and the overall album.
Beck
4/5
High points for creativity. There isn't much that sounds like this, and there's enough songs that deliver, that the album is entertaining (though Derelict is certainly a pass).
Boards of Canada
3/5
Nothing offensive here, but also not much that stood out (though i could swear that they should have named at least one song "Orange"... it actually worked for me). An interesting listen.
Ian Dury
1/5
I have no idea where this recommendation came from and no idea why it would still be on the list. It's like Wayne & Garth wanted to take themselves seriously and make a comical record with no humor. Its hard to find something good to say about any song, though there are plenty that are standount unpleasant (billericay dickie, blockheads, blackmail man, sex & drugs, clevor trever). Ugh.
System Of A Down
2/5
I will give them credit for a unique sound. But though songs like spiders are dark and aggressive, too many songs are handicapped by a singing style i don't particularly like... a novelty crooning metal opera. It becomes tiring after a while. The music is better than the vocal delivery.
Scott Walker
3/5
Pleasant, but a bit boring. Where Sinatra seemed cool, Scott Walker seems overly serious, a little dark, and no very interesting. Seventh Seal and Rhymes of Goodbye are probably best.
Neu!
4/5
Though there are few sections that give a hint of the era, this seems pretty timeless. Sparse in places, and more driving with a good groove in others. I couldn't tell if the vocalizations were english, german or just noises... but after getting past that, it was quite enjoyable and cool.
David Bowie
4/5
Super strong Bowie. A handful of classics, a set of strong 2nd tier catalog and the remaining are all pretty interesting or quirky.
Femi Kuti
2/5
Maybe it is the way jazz is, even "world jazz", but i find this more stressful than enjoyable to listen to. It's bold, brash and all over the place.
Leonard Cohen
3/5
Avalanche was a really strong start and definitely most of the tracks have a cool bob dylanny story song approach. The instrumentation is pretty light and it is all pretty good... nothing warrants a lot of repeat listens and I think he thinks his rhyme in "diamonds in the mine" is better than it actually is.
Public Image Ltd.
3/5
Definitely raw and a bit too experimental at times. The religion pair and foderstompf are a bit out of left field, but are interesting. Annalisa and Public Image are strong.
Neil Young
5/5
A super strong album, interesting and well written. Not only heart of gold and old man, but the last three (alabama, needle), and words are stellar. Fantastic.
Brian Eno
2/5
I feel it was a bit too uneven. There were some interesting experiments, and then there were some experiment experiments (e.g. New Feet). I don't know if there is anything here to bring me back.
Joni Mitchell
3/5
Fine. Pleasant. It's not great background music because she is warbly. Listening to it intently... she does stories, has better lyrics, but the music isn't particularly catchy. Casey is good. And River is super strong, but seems to have the thinnest lyrics (maybe I just don't get it). Was hoping to be blown away.
Funkadelic
4/5
No idea what to expect, but the album title and artist name seemed like a major deterrent. However, this album is just amazing. The title track actually reminds me of a heavy guitar pink floyd jam. The rhythm/groove on the remaining tracks is infectious without being overdone. The vocals fit, but the music is what soars. Wars of Armageddon is the only one i probably don't need to listen to again. Surprising!
The White Stripes
5/5
Amazing stripped down classic rock album. I think other than Aluminum, the album is strong from start to finish, with varied tempos and delivery. Jack White's voice doesn't sound like a great rock voice, but it is perfect for his music. Very enjoyable album.
Killing Joke
3/5
An interesting mix of heavy/dark rhythms with synth. Requiem stands out and the others blend in a bit with each other, but overall good energy and attitude.
The Mars Volta
3/5
The energy and angst and strong here, though they lean a bit too much into the Primus funk/experimental camp for my tastes. Still, we're it is energy without spazz, it is excellent.
John Grant
3/5
This is certainly some quirky odd music. John Grant's voice is great, the music and piano are fantastic as well. However, he definitely has his own thing going on in the lyrics. Some are plain weird and don't work for me (Marz), while others have an odd and interesting perspective. Kinda cool.
Pixies
3/5
This seems pretty uneven, but the raw feral energy of this album is pretty impressive. Certainly Where Is My Mind, Bone Machine and Gigantic stand out, but there is no dismissing the craziness that becomes a bit more organized when they get to doolittle.
The Kinks
3/5
Surprisingly blah. I love Arthur and Something Else, and Village Green is sandwiched between the two. Not enough standout tracks, but it is pleasant kinks.
The Verve
3/5
It's interesting, moody and has a good feel to it. Still, there isn't much that stands out as amazing, and Northern Soul and Brainstorm Interlude lean towards the less enjoyable portion. I listened to it several times hoping it would grow more on me... but it is just "fine".
Common
4/5
This is really good. Definitely finds it's message, but the tracks themselves each have a pretty unique vibe that finds its groove and carries it. I think Kanye is a welcome contributor here and elevates his contributions. Maybe a little long by the end, but really enjoyable.
The Smiths
5/5
My original introduction to the Smiths in 1985. Morrissey and Johnny Marr are amazing. They don't sounds like anybody else and I've always been intrigued by how Morrissey fits such complex lyrics into the music. Fantastic... even the buzzsaws.
Paul Simon
5/5
Impressive. An amazing mix of african rhythms into folk-pop music with creativity and energy. Very cool how someone can start with a blank page and end up with music like this. Very enjoyable.
Tears For Fears
3/5
Certainly doesn't hold up to my memory of it. It has 3 great songs. The remaining 5 I think are actively stressful to listen to. I would prefer to listen to their prior album, The Hurting.
Mike Ladd
2/5
Clearly Mike Ladd has a message and there are certainly some interesting experiments here, but I definitely not compelled to listen to it repeatedly. Definitely interesting, just not enjoyable.
Beatles
5/5
One of the best Beatles albums. More creative and mature... definitely more varied. Incredible.
Motörhead
4/5
Despite Jailbait, this album has great raw gritty energy, that is certainly highlighted by the title track but also is carried through on nearly everything else. Road crew also stands out. Lemmy's voice is perfect for this.
Rufus Wainwright
3/5
The music is surprisingly layered and the strings and piano are very interesting. The music is fine, nothing that really engages beyond initial pleasantries.
Screaming Trees
3/5
The album starts strong and has a good alternative rock vibe... by the time we hit traveler, the album starts to go downhill a bit. Enjoyable but short of excellent.
Pink Floyd
5/5
Epic. This is definitely one of the albums that makes me think the creators are mad geniuses. I have no idea how you go from a blank page to this. It is provocative, soaring, melodic at times, angry, and always story driven. An amazing piece of art.
The Cure
5/5
it's brooding, moody, atmospheric and amazing how they can take a 9+ minute song (same deep water) and just keep you entranced. They also have dark energy when they need... that dirty bass line on fascination street has a great groove. Fabulous album.
Primal Scream
3/5
It certainly wasn't what i expected from the band and album name. It's a little too much "Jesus Jones" and dated electronic. There are some fun bits (Loaded) that make it interesting... but nothing really that i loved.
Bonnie "Prince" Billy
4/5
Sparse and raw, it is moody and contains both intense and quiet moments. Though it drifts a little more on the back half, the album is interesting and enjoyable.
Ute Lemper
2/5
I started out on board with this album, and the first two songs are interesting and enjoyable. But the album just goes big broadway extravagence song after song that is a bit more obnoxious than entertaining. I want to give it a 3 for effort, as Ute has a pretty amazing voice, but i actually was getting irritated by the time i made it to the end of the album.
Franz Ferdinand
3/5
Reasonably solid. Take Me Out is definitely a stand-out, but the other songs are interesting in that it sounds like a modern take on classic Kinks. Not enough catchy to rate above average.
The Monkees
2/5
Disappointing pop. There wasn't anything that was memorable or remarkably enjoyable. Does not hold up very well.
Teenage Fanclub
4/5
The Concept and Alchololiday are fantastic. There's a bit of a middlin' dive in the middle, but both beginning and end are strong. Very enjoyable.
Booker T. & The MG's
4/5
Enjoyable... and though green onions stands ahead by a long measure, the organ blues works for me.
Japan
3/5
It seems a strange mash up of Roxy Music (without so much warble) and Duran Duran. I like the horns used with the synth and the broodiness of many of the tracks. Nothing stands out as amazing, but overall reasonably enjoyable.
ABBA
3/5
Utterly pleasant. Essentially every song carries forward with their pleasant ABBA vocal tropes and there's nothing here that is really bad. However, the sound does sound very dated, so it is more interesting than enjoyable.
The Cardigans
3/5
It's fine. Been It and Lovefool seem to stand out... the other songs were okay and not particularly catchy. I don't mind the style, but not too much compelling to rate it higher or have me listen more times.
Violent Femmes
5/5
Awesome raw energy. The sparse arrangements, exude energy and funk, and have a great deranged vocal flair. It is pretty impressive that also the unusual arrangement due survive their era and still sound entirely relevant today.
The Kinks
4/5
Though it is certainly vintage, I really enjoy the sometimes cheeky, very British simple rock and roll with folk stylings. Ray Davies delivery is perfect for this.
Frank Ocean
2/5
I don’t get it. It has critical acclaim but I don’t think that vocal warbling over no melody and someone’s synthesizer and drum kit is entertaining to listen to. There are a couple of songs that hold together, but 80% of this is pretty painful.
The Byrds
3/5
Pretty solid british pop. I like the folky/rock sound of the kinks a bit better, this is a bit safer and sweeter. Nice, not as much catches me for repeat listens.
Prince
3/5
Pretty varied and adventurous. Lots of different approaches, some work, some not so much. Pretty stellar start to the album, but tapers off a bit and things like something in the water is just a strange detour.
The Lemonheads
4/5
Very solid and enjoyable. Not a lot of absolute bangers, but the album is solid from start to finish and has a great alternative vibe.
CHIC
2/5
I thought I would find some place for this in the fond nostalgia of disco... but given that disco is already repetitive, why would i want 8.5 minutes of a disco song. Even their best song tires way before we get to the end.
Coldplay
5/5
Peak coldplay. Definitely a singer-songwriter vibe with atmospheric elements and everything is pretty passionate and enjoyable. Easy to put on anytime.
Dr. John
1/5
Something that a drum circle would appreciate.
Air
4/5
Reminds me a lot of Zero 7 Simpler Things... the chillout electronic vibe is great. La Femme d'argent is incredible, and songs like Sexy Boy, Kelly Watch the Stars and Talisman find their vibe. Very enjoyable.
Eric Clapton
3/5
A bit up and down. Though i like Please Be With Me and I Shot, both Hand Jive and Get Ready drive me bonkers. Overall, he slow bluesy rock style is interesting and reasonably enjoyable.
Tori Amos
5/5
Powerful. Her voice is amazing, passionate and varied and the piano work perfectly accompanies the pieces (though clearly Me and a Gun is stark and painful with just her voice).
Marvin Gaye
4/5
Though even for 30 minutes it gets a little disposable in the last few songs, the first half of the album is stellar soulful and has a great groove. Very enjoyable.
Joni Mitchell
3/5
After just listening to Tori Amos, I don't feel that Joni Mitchell carries the same passion... it's feels more like an aloof observer, with a very samey feel throughout the album. It is well written, but doesn't capture my interest very well.
Joan Armatrading
3/5
i got into down to zero and love and affection, though in general, this style and delivery don't do too much for me. it seems fine but i doubt i would choose to listen to it again.
Big Brother & The Holding Company
2/5
Definitely better than i was expecting. The jam band, overdone backing vocals, repetitive shout/screech delivery, blues cliche all is tiresome and unpleasant. The good news is that there is actually some really good blues/guitar grooves and soulful delivery in here as well (summertime, piece of my heart and ball and chain). Still, too much of the former to want to listen to again.
Van Morrison
5/5
I listened to this a lot 30 years ago and expected to like it again instantly. I was put off a bit by not remembering how waily beside you becomes, but the rest of the album holds up extremely well. Layered/complex, even the long songs (Madame George) still hold their way through 9.5 minutes. It's passionate and soulful. Amazing album.
Arcade Fire
5/5
When i first heard this, i loved it an wasn't sure why... definitely not a conventional alt rock album, but it's creativity and energy were easy to enjoy. Album still holds up... pretty incredible from start to finish.
Iggy Pop
3/5
Has raw, raucous original energy. Lust for Life, The Passenger and Neighborhood Threat are all great, the rest of the album is solid, but i don't think i enjoy it enough to push it to the 4 territory. Still good.
TLC
3/5
Creep, Red Light Special and Waterfalls are enjoyable. The other tracks lean way too heavily into the crazysexycool motif as if it is enough to make it great. It is pretty disposable, though Switch and Sumthin' Wicked pull the album out of it's nosedive towards the end.
The Hives
3/5
Hate to Say I Told You So is a banger. AKA IDIOT is good too... the closing instrumental... on board with that too. Everything else is just a bit stripped down rock with good energy but nothing is really catchy and stays with you.
Fatboy Slim
1/5
I was going to give it 2 stars and then Acid 8000 came on. It’s a painful reminder that this album is chock full or idiotic repeating phrases with little else other than throbbing beats that may be danceable but not enjoyable. Intolerable.
Jimi Hendrix
2/5
All Along the Watchtower is Great. Everything else seems uninteresting and excessive. I'm not sure Voodoo Child could be a good 4 minute song... why do i need 15 minutes of it? Ugh.
The xx
4/5
I love the voices, the mood, sparse arrangements and general sound. When it's good, and it gets the vibe/beat right, it is amazing. My one complaint is that it gets a little samesy and there are many songs without a hook. Still very enjoyable.
Miles Davis
2/5
I have no idea what to say. A documentary on making the album would certainly be a better way to spend 90+ minutes than actually listening to it. I'm sure there is something magical going on, but most of the album seems so random, that i can't imagine there is sheet music that indicates there is a specific way to play these songs. Admittedly, after listening to the whole album, someone could play a couple minutes of it again, and i would have no idea if i had heard that before. A challenging listen. Not exactly for me, but interesting.
Everything But The Girl
3/5
I expected to like this a lot more, because i like the voice, and key aspects of the style, but it is too far on the boring side of mellow. I Don't Want to Talk and Apron Strings are strong, though the rest blends together.
Barry Adamson
2/5
A lot of weird artistic expression... vermillion kisses is a weird interlude and others just don't seem like tracks that i'd want to listen to again. Bamboozle is the closest to something cool, but it's a big slog to get to that one nugget. An interesting adventure, but not very enjoyable.
ZZ Top
4/5
Stellar album. 4 absolute bangers and the rest of the album holds its own. Very enjoyable.
Billie Holiday
3/5
I hadn't really heard Billy Holiday before and expected this to be easy to enjoy. The pace is certainly slow, though I think her voice isn't as warm (and a little warbly) as i thought it would be and isn't something i really fell into. Interesting to listen to.
CHIC
3/5
Much more enjoyable than Risque... at least there are other tracks that are worth listening to besides le freak, though nothing quite rises to that level.
Bob Marley & The Wailers
4/5
I'm a reggae fan though don't listen to much. It is easy to feel the vibe and passion in the music as well as appreciate the power and meaning of his lyrics. Great album.
Queens of the Stone Age
2/5
This was really close to hitting 3 stars, but it's just a bit too experimental at times and there's nothing that just find a great groove and energy i was able to get into. There are much more interesting QOTSA albums to listen to.
X-Ray Spex
3/5
I really like Poly Styrene's voice; the punk energy and sound are definitely enjoyable. The main knock is that it does sound very samey across 40 minutes of music. A good listen.
Norah Jones
4/5
Though it does have a yuppie coffee shop vibe, it is still pretty cool and the bass lines and groove is better than expected. I get a hip daughter of jackson browne feel. enjoyable.
Prefab Sprout
4/5
Very entertaining. The first five tracks on the album are super strong, though they have a heavily produced 80's feel with a bunch of sounds that would be in an ABC video. It tapers off a bit at the end, but really enjoyable.
D'Angelo
3/5
Completely fine and seemingly representative of the style. Nothing too great and other than the somewhat annoying lyric of jonz in my bonz, everything seems like pleasant background music.
Incredible Bongo Band
2/5
Apache hits and i think i'm going to groove and enjoy this album. I raised an eyebrow at InAGaddaDaVida, but i carried forward. But wow... it turns south after that... certainly by the time of satisfaction, wipeout and pipeline. Unnecessary.
Barry Adamson
3/5
Seems like a lost soundtrack to a 1970's alfred hitchcock movie about a carnival serial killer.
Manu Chao
2/5
The album starts well and is interesting and restrained. Though hitting bongo bong is a hard no, and the rest of the album is up and down... some spoken work interruptions and luna y sol is a bit irritating. Ultimately, i'll steer away from it.
LCD Soundsystem
3/5
it's pretty cool... has an simple electronic vibe combined with a david bowie/fashion esthetic. you definitely need to be patient as it ventures deep in repetition and droning. still i can listen to pretty much everything but "emotional haircut"... i don't think it's possible to repeat that phrase multiple times and have a good song. pretty interesting.
Deep Purple
4/5
I'll acknowledge that this isn't my version of heavy metal, but it is clean, finds its groove and executes well from start to finish. I can certainly appreciate it as a solid early hard rock album.
Ella Fitzgerald
4/5
Stellar and smooth. Ella has such an amazing voice and though the 5 discs on Apple Music was quite a bit to wade through, it was all enjoyable.
The Pogues
4/5
This is definitely a mood thing. If you are willing to embrace the style, and revel in the rawness, sweat and dirt, this is a great ride with both frantic energy and passionate ballads. Just awesome.
Bob Dylan
4/5
Definitely a great songwriter/storyteller. Most of the tracks are excellent and even desolation road holds its 10+ minute run time. Album is very enjoyable.
Garbage
5/5
Amazing album. Slightly uneven around the "no my idea" mark, but finishes strong with an impressive number of just banger tracks. Holds up well 27 years later.
Oasis
4/5
Slide Away is the standout here. They have many really good songs, but I fall off a bit the more they resort to cliched rock wall of sound with a Sex Pistols whine and sneer. It’s fine, but their melodies with supersonic and slide away are where they shine.
Frank Zappa
2/5
Hot Rats starts off a bit more weird than it is interesting. Son of Mr. Green Genes finds a bit of a groove and the extended guitar or sax or whatever the instrument of the minute is, tends to be fine. Overall, more of an experiment than something to listen to repeatedly.
The White Stripes
5/5
Nugget after nugget of deliciousness. It's varied and raw, with lots of great surprises. Stellar album... even with the squirrel story.
Country Joe & The Fish
2/5
Hasn't really stood the test of time. Too much 60's organ sound and fuzzy guitars. Porpoise Mouth is interesting and it is more enjoyable the more folk rock it is. Lyrics are pretty interesting in general... though Love may not qualify for that.
John Coltrane
2/5
I still don't get jazz. It seems to be the equivalent if you were just listening to a record of solos all strung together with no context. I don't get any emotion or feeling conveyed, just manic noodling. I will say the drums on track 1 are just crazy... i can't even tell what's going on. Track 4 is the only interesting one... it slows it down and tries to create a mood and melody. Not enough to save it.
PJ Harvey
3/5
A album seems to suffer from a pretty similar sound across the tracks and there are not many interesting or catchy melodies that elevate many of the songs. The lyrics seem interesting and i enjoyed All & Everyone as well as In the Dark Places.
Elvis Presley
4/5
It’s a great clean soulful Elvis. Everything here is good or really good… maybe with the exception of don’t cry daddy, which just is too sappy. The rest is strong and an enjoyable listen.
Ramblin' Jack Elliott
3/5
An interesting flashback to a more traveling folk singer vibe... particularly with interesting perspective songs like Boll Weevil and Mule Skinner Blues. Was cool to listen to.
Tortoise
3/5
Eccentric and unusual... thought it never veers too far into unconventional to be too challenging to appreciate. An interesting listen.
Earth, Wind & Fire
3/5
Shining Star and That's the Way of the World are absolute bangers. After that, it falls a bit with a variety of funk/soul tracks that groove but are missing a killer hook.
Jefferson Airplane
4/5
A surprise. I was already in the camp thinking that Jefferson Starship to Starship was a tragedy. This makes it even more so. Though the vibe is definitely rooted in the 60's, this doesn't dwell on cliched elements, but has a great diversity of folk, blues, rock... good melodies and harmonies. Really enjoyable.
Run-D.M.C.
3/5
Though not my style, i respect it for the time and place and how it was changing/inventing rap music at the time. I don't think the drum machines and production really stand up too well today, but it is still an interesting listen.
Pixies
5/5
I have no idea how they do this. I've listened to this for a long time and love it. But if someone describes songs like Tame and Crackity Jones, you would think this is unlistenable. But the violent vocal delivery somehow fits and there is plenty of time for balance and melodies as well. It's an incredible album.
Goldfrapp
3/5
Pleasant but very samey. I've listened to it multiple times, and though the sound is nicely atmospheric, i am not really drawn to any track in particular.
My Bloody Valentine
3/5
There wasn't anything i didn't like, though wonder 2 was a bit strange. For me they miss the mark of actually being interesting... lacking a bit of melody/tone or not varying the intensity. Who sees you is probably the closests, where the normal droning gives way to perks of intensity and then fades away. Nothing in has intensity and a vibe but nothing interesting happens. Overall, a challenging and interesting listen.
The Offspring
5/5
I'm not sure what more you can expect from pop-punk-rock. The hooks are catchy, the harmonies are solid, the energy is great and it absolute carries a dose of snarkiness and humor. Really enjoyed
Suede
4/5
Definitely a strong dose of Smiths and Oasis... energetic, melodic and a very enjoyable listen. A lot of really strong songs, liked Animal Nitrate and Pantomime Horse a lot.
Willie Nelson
3/5
A pretty interesting old storyteller approach with a pretty barebones arrangement. It's decent, and the story aspect of it is the strongest piece. Musically, it's all fine exception Down Yonder. ugh. Still worth a listen.
Skunk Anansie
4/5
Absolutely solid rock record. They have a really nice variety of tempos and energy and definitely finds it vibe throughout the album. There are a few tracks that are the higher energy / staccato delivery that don't do as much for me, but We Don't Need and Tracy's Flaw are great. Really enjoyed.
Joni Mitchell
2/5
it feels like vocal jazz... i don't really get it... the music has rhythm, but the melody seems to be in joni's voice. it is interesting, but not really something that is easily enjoyable.
Justice
4/5
The album is great, particularly when they stay away from lyrics. They have an awesome electronic groove that samples widely and has touches of a mild dubstep experimentation. Very enjoyable.
The Prodigy
3/5
It does get it's groove and pacing... and towards the end of the album, it finds an energetic vibe that pleasantly isn't so much IN YOUR FACE. A little too much of the album is hyper and seems poised for a siren alarm sound as part of its music. Still pretty interesting and enjoyable listen.
Sonic Youth
2/5
This is definitely a challenging listen. The music isn't melodic, it's stressful and the guitars sounds like they are in pain the entire time. The vocals aren't necessarily pleasant either... it's a noisy, discordant album that i can only give them credit for doing their own thing. There's something in there, but i just don't get it.
Bruce Springsteen
5/5
They are not all my favorite songs... i like the darker quieter aspect of Bruce, so I'm on Fire, Downbound Train, I'm Goin' Down are the most interesting to me. I was thinking this was going to be a "4" , but there's just too many amazing tracks, finishing with 4 bangers in a row.
Sebadoh
3/5
This seems like a jekyll & hyde album. They switch between a pretty mainstream approachable alternative vibe and then through doses of Sonic Youth across the tracks. Definitely enjoyed Soul and Fire.
Sonic Youth
2/5
Well... after listening to 3 Sonic Youth albums, i can say that this is my favorite. The first 3 songs are not too experimental and sound like dirty/edgy alternative. Unfortunately it devolves quite a bit from there... and ends up sounding like a Sonic Youth album. A high 2.
Jeff Beck
3/5
It was a solid listen but nothing was catchy enough melodically to really rise to the top. I did enjoy Rod Stewart as the vocalist with clearly an intense guitar supporting side. Good classic rock.
The Rolling Stones
5/5
Truly one of the greatest albums of all time. So soulful and bluesy. Songs like Sweet Virginia, Loving Cup, Let It Loose, Shine a Light are just incredible. There's enough variation in pacing and sound that this album just does not get old. Incredible and an automatic 5.
Blur
3/5
I was surprised at how widely varied the tracks on this album are. There is brit pop, brit punk, brit rock... it doesn't all work, but there are some definite highs (ironically This Is a Low is one of my favorites). Pretty enjoyable album, but uneven.
Cypress Hill
3/5
The lyrics are on point and the groove is really good, though I'm not a huge fan of the nasally vocal delivery. Still pretty enjoyable... how i could just kill a man and hand on the pump are just stellar.
The Youngbloods
2/5
It has some decent moments, particularly Darkness, Darkness, but the album feels like a discount Monkees... nothing very melodic, a bit weird 60's pop noodling. Interesting, but nothing really that needs a repeat listen.
Simon & Garfunkel
5/5
It is crazy how consistently good each of these tracks are. Short, sweet, varied, little delicious nuggets of folk songs with beautiful vocals. Incredibly enjoyable.
Grateful Dead
2/5
A couple of known songs, but sounds very samesy and boring (duplicate album in my review history).
Frank Sinatra
2/5
This is SOOOOOOOO boring. It's not particularly melodic, there's no energy... everything is sterile, atmospheric, 50's soundtrack music with some dispassionate crooner moaning through an hour of music. It is great as background music if you had a 50's cocktail party planned, but it isn't enjoyable on it's own. A generous 2.
Bob Marley & The Wailers
4/5
Enjoyable and cool. I was pretty into nearly every track, though maybe i'm missing the message on Kinky Reggae. Stir it up is stellar and the rest hold together well. Good lyrics and vibe.
Korn
3/5
It starts phenomenally well... the first 5 tracks are super strong, rowdy and energetic. All in the family is a clever idea but i think it pretty much fails, and the homophobic slurs don't age here. By the time it has gotten to cameltosis and eararche, I was ready to move on. Definitely had some good points though.
The Strokes
4/5
A really solid album, that is great straight ahead rock with punk and indie influence. It sounds much more mature than a debut album. Hard to explain is great. Very enjoyable.
The B-52's
3/5
The first 4 songs are absolutely stellar. They are quirky unique and catchy. Unfortunately the rest of the album doesn’t quite hold up as well, being weird without being so entertaining.
Aerosmith
4/5
Very surprised. There really isn't any filler on this album. Even Uncle Salty, Adam's Apple, No More No More, and Round and Round... they all hold their own. The openings for Sweet Emotion and Walk This Way are creative and impactful. Toys in the Attic is the only song i could pass on, mostly because i like R.E.M.'s cover of it better. Even the ballad is solid. Found this really enjoyable rock record.
Solange
3/5
Definitely message HEAVY. The vignettes and songs definitely paint a picture which definitely delivers on what Solange wants. The music is fine, but uneventful. Nothing memorable but nothing difficult o listen to either.
Michael Jackson
4/5
Listening to Billie Jean, thriller and beat it back to back is an amazing trio. The album is still strong though does has some syrupy ballad songs that don’t hold up. He was a creep but still had a great album.
Sex Pistols
5/5
Epic energy with killer track after track. Love submission and pretty vacant. Amazing.
10cc
2/5
You know in Jeff Goldblums' The Fly, the problem all started with the unexpected organism sharing the teleportation pod with Jeff. I feel that happened here. The may have been some good ideas in the Queen, Bowie, Randy Newman, Weezer vibe in here... but somehow a Frank Zappa stowed away in the teleportation pod on the way to the studio. What we have is a bizarre novelty-sounding rock-ish record. It's weird, but there's nothing more than a few bars here or lyrics there that are very interesting. Happy to not listen to this again.
I really like the slightly more subtle songs like Walk On and Kite. Wild Honey is great and clearly there are the other key hits that carry this album. Really impressive and they do a great job of carrying tempo and energy both up and down, and making songs that keep you engaged.
Metallica
4/5
An amazing album and one where i bought it on cassette and immediately drove from Tempe, Arizona to Bloomington, Indiana listening to it on repeat. Clearly Sandman, Unforgiven and Nothing Else Matters stand out. Very enjoyable to revisit it again start to finish.
Miles Davis
4/5
Just when i was ready to throw out all jazz... this is subtle, soulful, cool and enjoyable. It does not venture much into the territory where is seems like the instruments are frantically sparring with each other creating stress and frenzy. Big thumbs up.
Fugazi
3/5
I enjoyed the raw energy of this album. It seems pretty stripped down, straight forward angry rock. Nothing quite catchy enough to move it up the ratings, but there also wasn't anything that pushed me away. A good listen.
Gang Starr
2/5
Definitely give them credit for writing thoughtful powerful lyrics, but I really don't like the delivery style, it has a muddy/muffled sound (reminds me of digital underground) with a lot of 80's sounding rap accent noises inserted (exaggerated scratches, sirens, horns). Doesn't age well for me.
Aphex Twin
4/5
Took me a lot of tries to make it through paying attention... a combination of it being a bit long and also ambient. Overall, an enjoyable trek through ambient electronica... definitely some that find their groove, while others are interesting.
The Band
4/5
Very solid americana rock album that does not show real signs of age. There are some mediocre points (Rag Mama Rag, Jawbone), but the album is pretty consistent start to finish. Dixie is the strongest, but plenty of other earnest songs that make an enjoyable listen.
Manic Street Preachers
3/5
There is definitely a lot going on here. The album is definitely dark... what is strangest to me is that the album sounds like you should be able to understand the lyrics, but the delivery pacing coupled with an advanced word choice makes this very hard to follow just by listening. I like the music and energy but it is a challenging listen. She is suffering stands out for me... but overall a really interesting listen.
Crosby, Stills & Nash
4/5
Super strong and interesting harmonies that still carry today. Suite Judy Blue Eyes and Helplessly Hoping stand out, though there really aren't any bad songs on the album, just ones that don't hook you as easily. A very enjoyable listen.
Sufjan Stevens
3/5
Strange album. Lyrically, pretty heavy and complicated, and it certainly seems the focus with some less interesting folk music holding it all together. I listened to this while driving across Illinois... didn't help too much. The most interesting items are the variety of words chosen to rhyme with Decatur as well as a song (that is as successful as they are on the album) where the core of it is spelling the word Illinois. Unusual and interesting.
Crowded House
4/5
The first 8 songs of this album are on pace for a 5 star banger... and then it just sort of meanders off and finishes with a set of both boring and weird tracks. Fall at Your Feet and Four Season in One Day are absolutely beautiful
Eminem
4/5
It's really amazing lyrically. He embraces his anti-role model persona and has a pretty solid stable of songs in this list. I'm still not a skit person, but they work here as well as anywhere i've seen.
Songhoy Blues
3/5
It's really hard to know how to rate a foreign language album when it is so lyrically prominent... it's not just about rhythm and mood but the lyrics too that you don't understand. I liked Nick, Petit Metier and Jolie a lot. Good, but hard to appreciate more than a 3.
Count Basie & His Orchestra
4/5
Found it intriguing that apple music labeled this as Pop, though i guess it may have been the popular music back in the late 50's. There are a few sections that are too slow/sparse, but it is mostly a solid enjoyable big band sound with a great rhythm and groove.
The Chemical Brothers
2/5
Definitely a bit too many sirens and frenetic/frantic/frenzied energy with repeating segments that quickly get tired. It gets a little more interesting/subtle in the last two tracks, but it isn't something that fits for me.
Louis Prima
3/5
A bit fun, and old vocal jazz energy. It gets a little too cheeky for its own good at times, but still pretty fun and cool to listen to. Enjoyable.
Milton Nascimento
2/5
I think it's tough to be successful with a vocal heavy foreign language album. The music is okay, but generally uninteresting. Not much that actually is catching and worthy of listening to own it's own. A little tiresome by the end.
Beck
5/5
Even though it is a real slow pace, the songs are well written, passionate in the right places, and nearly all of them have a hook that i really enjoy. If you're in the mellow mood, this is perfect.
T. Rex
4/5
Definitely a bit better than i expected. Channels a lot of a david bowie vibe, with a restrained rock sound that has a good vocal hook. I could pass on Jeepster, but the rest was pretty solid
Chicago
2/5
Apparently they were going for the abundance of horns and percussion sounds combined with a bunch of solo noodling on any instrument they could find. There's essentially 3 songs that show they have some potential to become a melodic interesting rock band, and about 60 minutes of music that should best be left in the past.
The Boo Radleys
2/5
A really challenging listen. It is sonically unusual and interesting... different layers and instruments for an alt rock album. However, it never gels for me and the lead singer's voice/style is irritating to me. It is muted, boring and at some point the whisper unmelodic comatose singing starts to become unpleasant. Disappointed here.
Lou Reed
3/5
An interesting listen, where Lou Reed's poet conversationalist approach makes the songs compelling without them necessarily being catchy. They are sparse, but do well with a dark tone and style. Lou Reed does "cool" well.
New York Dolls
3/5
A fine racuous rock record. There was nothing here that pushed you away, but there always wasn't anything amazingly catchy and exciting. It would seem the perfect band that would be an amazing live energy, but the album doesn't quite catch it the same way.
David Bowie
4/5
An interesting and experimental Bowie sound that stays pretty strong for the first 2/3rds. Around Warszawa we get a bit more atmospheric and electronic, but it becomes a bit less interesting and doesn't quite keep up the momentum of the earlier album. Still enjoyable.
Mike Oldfield
2/5
It starts really well, but it seems like it runs out of steam after about 15 minutes and then it seems like a kitchen sink approach... "what if we throw in THIS next!" begins to seem like a random collection of styles glued into the same song. Also what is going on at 12 minutes on track 2?.... it made me think "what would it sound like if Meddle was bad?"
Roxy Music
4/5
Very solid and enjoyable. Songs are varied, layered, and have a great rock energy. Casanova, Out of the Blue are some of the most enjoyable. Bitter-Sweet and Triptych are a little strange, but still have their positive aspects.
Radiohead
5/5
An amazing album. Everything in its right place and how to disappear are essentially enough for greatness, but optimistic and idioteque and other keep this exciting (and occasionally challenging) from start to finish.
Doves
4/5
Really enjoyable. There was plenty of interesting and deeply layered tracks... it really is nicely varied, with sparse quiet tracks like M62 but all finds angsty energy in the right parts. Really good album.
Green Day
5/5
High energy melodic pop punk with depth. The first 5 songs on the album are almost as strong of a start as any album anywhere. Great.
The Roots
2/5
Rock You and The Seed 2.0 are fantastic... unfortunately i don't think there is much for me beyond that. They are definitely creative, i like the sampling in Quills and Thirsty is a major style shift, but it doesn't work for me. Props in that the album seems solid lyrically, with the key exception that Pussy Galore doesn't work like i think they want it to work.
John Lee Hooker
3/5
Enjoyable music... emotion laden blues with strong guitar and harmonica. The lyrics and voice don't do a lot for me... it seems a very small vocabulary with lots of saying the same thing over and over again (more than with most songs). Nice variety.
Queen
4/5
Amazing. Given that there aren't any "greatest hits" types songs on this album, it is suprisingly easy to immediately get into an enjoy. Queen is pretty unlike anybody else... instant rock opera vibe, varied energy with lots of melody and drama.
Deep Purple
2/5
Dreck. It does not survive the test of time. The organ has not carried well through time, and this is a perfect example... even hard working man starts with a great guitar riff and then just goes sideways with miserable guitar. There's not much to like here, too many ridiculous flourishes and overly dramatic vocals. It is heavy, but i think only the middle portion of child in time really hits the mark.
Portishead
2/5
Pretty challenging listen. I don't think the waily/siren singing here works for me. The Rip and Machine Gun are the most approachable sonically, but most of the other tracks feel experimental.
Belle & Sebastian
3/5
I really do like the Belle & Sebastian style, though the album is a bit up and down for me. It's almost a 4 but i think it sits at a 3 simply because i don't really like enough of the tracks. Get Me Away and Seeing Other People are really great... the others start to drop a bit from this.
Spacemen 3
2/5
For a good portion of this i could only think of Tenacious D and their "one note song"... "see, i even did the bendy bit". The music is very basic/repetitive at times and isn't very engaging. Revolution and Suicide take that basic approach and make it a bit edgier, but the whole thing seemed pretty boring to me.
Gary Numan
3/5
Gary's electronic/synth sound is great. It's not as dated as I expected and all the songs are pretty easy to enjoy... though the lyrics are pretty sparse and forgettable (even Cars which seems to have the most words, on retrospect, is also pretty shallow). Engineers was the only "ouch" track (weird and unnecessary sound effects).
George Jones
3/5
A bit better than i expected. Everything he is straightforward old country twangy with some good variety with up tempo pieces like weatherman as well as some more ballad types. Grand Tour itself is really good. Has some misogynstic tones that make it a little less pleasant.
Little Richard
3/5
You know what it is... and it sounds like the seminal rock that we expect... Tutti Fruti and Long Tall Sally are here. The other tracks keep the same energy and are pretty consistent. I'll give it props for what it represents, but I don't expect to come back to it.
Kate Bush
3/5
There's a lot of pretty pleasant music here, but it much of the beginning of the album seems somewhat listless. It isn't until the end, Never Be Mine and Rocket's Tail that it amps up with passion and energy. This Woman's Work is strong as well.
Drive-By Truckers
5/5
This was amazing. Holds it's own over a double length album that is tightly pulled together, intelligently written and sounds like a whiskey-fueled bar band with a strong southern Tom Petty feel. Surprised. Very enjoyable.
Linkin Park
5/5
I've really enjoyed this album for a long time. In listening to it again, i certainly heard more Limp Bizkit in it than i remembered, and they certainly took different trajectories. Fred is a bit of an embarrassment while Chester improved with time. There are still enough energetic creative aggressive items on here to make it a home run.
Bee Gees
3/5
it certainly has an epic quality about it, and the songs are generally pleasant and easy to listen to. much more symphonic than i expected and they throw in some curveballs like Give Your Best. Still, songs like Black Diamond and Marley Purt Drive and Never Say Never are pretty enjoyable. Solid.
Koffi Olomide
3/5
Definitely hard to fully appreciate everything in world music where you don't understand the lyrics. The vibe certainly seems very island and laid back... and i know I'm an idiot for saying this, but it makes me think of what an album would sound like if the Sebastian the Crab (from The Little Mermaid) made a smooth album. Enjoyable.
Badly Drawn Boy
3/5
I absolutely love the opening... the feel of both The Shining and Everybody's Stalking is fantastic. I really enjoy Damon's voice and writing style... there's a nice folk warmth to the music. Still after the beginning, the album seems very long and not a lot of standouts... but still an enjoyable listen.
The Dave Brubeck Quartet
4/5
A pretty flawless record. Very enjoyable and easy to listen to, though has enough variation to keep it interesting and the listener engaged. Definitely a good jazz trip.
Public Enemy
3/5
Still holds up well... very focused and cohesive. Bring tha Noize is an interesting experiment, but seems to be the least successful here. Solid.
Animal Collective
2/5
Wow. This seems like a group lost in a different era. What would it sound like if the Beach Boys took some psychedelics and joined a drum circle in the Octopus' Garden? Interesting, but not very enjoyable.
The National
4/5
Though there really aren't standout exceptional tracks for me, the sincere conversational tone and approach of these songs makes them easy to enjoy.
Tom Waits
3/5
Certainly very interesting. There's a few weird experiments (Cemetery Polka), but most of it is a weird folk drunken minstrel style in Tom's gravely style. Had no idea that this was where Downtrain Train came from. Impressive.
Guided By Voices
2/5
Seems like a bunch of experimental, partially fleshed out half ideas assembled in a very strange collection. There's only a few that seem like actual songs, but nothing that is really too compelling. Interesting.
David Bowie
3/5
An interesting and challenging listen. I went through it at least 5 times, trying to see if it would take a hold for me, as i generally like Bowie and have seen so many folks raving over this album. Lazarus is really good and maybe Blackstar is unusual and good, but I didn't really find much else that makes we want to listen more. It's fine, but won't have me coming back.
Buffalo Springfield
3/5
Melodic late 60's pop-rock, but at this point i'm a bit tired of this slightly dated sound. Whereas I can still really enjoy albums like Love-Forever Changes, i think this one doesn't quite have the consistency and great melodies. Still pretty good.
Jurassic 5
3/5
Definitely a coherent effort that is lyrically smart and makes a strong statement. The style is enjoyable and easy to appreciate. My main criticism is that most of the message is blunt and too straightforward. I think there is a bit more creativity/cleverness in Sum of Us and High Fidelity is strong, but overall, good, but a bit boring.
Simon & Garfunkel
4/5
Stellar. The first half is almost untouchable, though drifts a bit towards the end. The melodies and harmonies are S&G classics. Very enjoyable.
Meat Loaf
4/5
It seems absolutely unique and does a great job of implementing a drama club like rock vibe. The songs vary timing to add drama and engagement. It is definitely a lot of fun and there isn't a bad track, though a Heaven Can Wait and For Crying Out Loud drag a bit.
Ice T
5/5
Compelling. Though the content is clearly violent and dark, it doesn't take a naive or dumb approach even when it is being boastful. It is intelligently written and covers so much ground; does an amazing job of portraying a time and place.
Willie Nelson
4/5
Pretty interesting experiment to take music standards and put together a stripped down country western version. All pretty successful, and is easy to enjoy.
Van Halen
5/5
Amazing dominant and original. Van Halen lands its debut with an incredibly energy and seems to be the quintessential definition of hedonistic rock. One of the most important rock records of all time.
The Triffids
3/5
I liked Kelly's Blues and the driving beat of Unmade Love. There are other songs that are somewhat catchy, but the lyrics don't really flow well... Vagabond HOLES? really? Hoodoo Gurus are more entertaining from this era and style.
Jerry Lee Lewis
2/5
Rockabilly isn't really my style and i can't extract listening to him with my general feeling that I'm not a big fan of what has been publicized about his life. Your Cheatin' Heart is the most enjoyable track here.
The Doors
3/5
Solid rock-blues effort, that doesn't seem to have lots of stand-outs as much as everything pretty decent. Enjoyed The Spy and Maggie M'gill. The weirdest thing is the overuse of panning/directional stereo... voices/instruments just fade from one side to the other and back quite regularly.
AC/DC
5/5
Epic. Grew up with this and it is an all-time classic.
Lou Reed
3/5
Vicious, Walk on the Wild Side and Satellite of Love are really strong. The other pieces have a sparse Lou Reed flair and are interesting, but don't really do much for me. New York Telephone Conversation is annoying.
Blondie
4/5
What a banger. More pop than i expected, with an occasional flair of punk and rock, but very smooth music and melodies. Easy and enjoyable listen... deborah harry's voice is great.
Le Tigre
3/5
Adventurous, lo-fi, experimental. Has some indie pop punk sensibilities and then it is just stretched in some different directions. I thought Cassavetes was a bit too on the nose and Yr So Crazy probably doesn't need a lot of repeats, but overall pretty cool album.
Led Zeppelin
4/5
Enjoyable to really get an album that you know what you're going to get going in. This has more varied pacing, but excels with rock, blues and folks. Was really impressed by Since I've Been Loving You... haven't had much exposure to that and it is stellar. Tangerine and Immigrant Song are the clear other favorites. Very enjoyable.
Adele
4/5
A bit long and not my favorite music, but essentially every song has enough of a hook to keep itself interesting and raise above just "nice sounding" music. Hello is an all time classic. Impressive.
Lynyrd Skynyrd
5/5
Dang. This is really an impressive damn album. There's a few tracks in the middle that don't do much, but they still have an interesting southern blues and rock vibe that is interesting. The rest are exceptional, Tuesday's Gone and Free Bird certainly being all time classics.
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
4/5
enjoyed this a lot. definitely some higher energy on the first album, and it is strong all the way through (though brown ape was a bit off). highlights for me were messiah ward and let the bells ring. Second disc was also good (the lyre was a little challenging), but otherwise solid start to finish. Liked easy money and supernaturally. I thought the album had a lot of layers and the backing vocals/harmonies were very well done. nicely produced.
The Prodigy
2/5
Though I still think of Wipeout when I hear firestarter, I’m weary of the frenetic aggressive siren oriented electronic music. Fuel My Fire is the worst example of this, but the whole album is GUILTY.
Jeff Buckley
3/5
I have expected it to be more melodic and interesting. Hallelujah is great, but not enough else to hold interest. It’s coherent, but not more than “fine”.
David Bowie
3/5
The track Heroes is great, but the remaining songs are either atmospheric and just there, or a little strange without being catchy. Maybe I don’t get Bowie as much as I want to. Still interesting.
The Stooges
3/5
It’s energetic, though I like my punk rawer and cleaner. It feels like there are leftover pieces of the late 60’s with muddy, experimental bass lines, guitar solos and a bit too much funk. Down on the street and dirt stand out.
Tom Waits
3/5
an interesting listen. the gravely voiced storyteller has some strong points with the title track and ruby's arms, though much of the rest is consistent with his style without particularly standing out.
Basement Jaxx
4/5
Really fun adventurous electronic album. Though the interludes don't add much and there are some autopilot tracks, when they turn it on, it's lit. Bingo Bango and Rendez-Vu are super strong.
Nina Simone
3/5
I can offer respect to it, but this sound is not my alley. Four Women is surpising content, and much of the rest is fine, but i'm not particularly taken by her voice and the mood created.
Muddy Waters
3/5
Certainly solid blues, but i don't love anything that presented here.
The Adverts
4/5
This is enjoyable british punk... clean, raw sounding with a pop-punk energy. One chord wonders and no time to be 21 stood out for me. Good listen.
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
5/5
This is stellar. Amazing how tight and smart this music is. There's also an underlying bite or anger in the way lyrics are delivered that increase the energy. Also impressed at how varied the song approaches are. Radio Radio is drop dead awesome, but songs like Living in Paradise and Chelsea just show how interesting the songs can be.
Gene Clark
3/5
Evoking a little simon & garfunkel folk (without harmonies) and a little bob dylan... his voice in interesting and the song lyrics are engaging. Unfortunately nothing seems to have enough of a hook or some memorable to raise it higher. Still an enjoyable listen.
Pet Shop Boys
2/5
Disappointed. I like the voice and the vibe in general, but there is nothing that really stands out positively in this track list and if anything, key parts of it are really sounding dated. Since there are things i know i like by the Pet Shop Boys, i was expecting a positive experience, but ended up being really let down by this album.
Bebel Gilberto
2/5
Suprisingly annoying. Though there is a mixture of portuguese and english language tracks, the lyrics are so simple and repetitve, that they quickly become irritating... feeling like they are one note songs with a single repeating word. By the time i hit bananeira... i was ready for it to be over.
George Michael
5/5
Very impressed by this. Lyrically introspective, with some pieces of pop and wonderfully crafted ballads sung with deep emotion. Though Cowboys & Angels overstays its welcome, there are amazing nuggets all the way through from Praying for Time all the way to Waiting.
Eminem
2/5
This is a really strong album for its antagonistic and attitude-fueld rap. Unfortunately too much of it carries a misogynistic and homophobic payload which is completely overdone and unnecessary. He attempts to excuse himself of responsibility but that only shows that he knows exactly what he's doing. It's unfortunate, because other than those aspects of the lyrical content, this album is great.
Astrud Gilberto
2/5
Though it carries its cool bossa nova vibe well, that's everything positive i have. Otherwise, it's very samey sounding, and her voice isn't particularly melodic. I definitely rolled my eyes at parade as the some seemed more about naming every national holiday and saying there was a parade for that.
Donald Fagen
3/5
IGY and New Frontier stand out as obviously catchy and enjoyable examples of Fagen's pop-jazz sound. Though they are definitely strong, the rest of the album blends together... nothing great but nothing bad either. Feels like background music at that point.
Willie Colón & Rubén Blades
3/5
Fine latin/tropical flair. I probably liked Pedro Navaja the most but nothing got me very excited and nothing stands out as bad. Overall, an interesting listen.
Red Hot Chili Peppers
4/5
It's probably got a bit too many FUNK songs on it for my personal taste, everything that is a bit more dark moody i think is amazing. A great album.
Iggy Pop
3/5
He's got an understated swagger and attitude on these tracks that actually deliver pretty well. Dum Dum Boys stands out for me, though it was pretty fascinating to hear a China Girl version that predates Bowie's recording by 6 years. A bit challenging and enjoyable listen.
Ice Cube
3/5
Though i give him credit for strong lyrical content pretty much across the board, i feel like the musical aspects of it are non very interesting... it seems like sound effects are the only differentiating feature, otherwise the beat seems the same. Interesting, particularly the unexpected gansta's fairytale.
Billy Bragg
3/5
I like billy bragg and wilco, though everything here is in their style but nothing seems to stand out. A fine album.
KISS
3/5
Though destroyer, shout it out loud and beth and recognizable, most of the album comes across as simple rock and dumb lyrics... it seems there was a lower threshold for rock success in the 70's.
Fats Domino
3/5
This is fine. It's predictable for what you would expect, and the songs are all good. Enjoyed but unlikely to listen to this much.
OutKast
3/5
This is another one where i give them credit for diversity and creativity, though in general it is not for me. Ms. Jackson is easy to like, but most of the rest is a bit too hip-hopity for me.
George Harrison
3/5
Certainly better than average pop songs, but they are good not great. My Sweet Lord is the best, and i was surprised by If Not For You, which i only knew as an ONJ song. Surprised to find it came from here. Good.
Dexys Midnight Runners
3/5
I enjoyed the very english vibe and folky pop songs. Come On Eileen stands above the rest, but most of then are enjoyable pop songs. Pleasantly surprised.
The Mothers Of Invention
2/5
Just too big brain and quirky for me. Seems like interesting jazzy music, but then it is nerds doing skits and songs they think are funny. It's not that clever.
Adam & The Ants
3/5
Didn't remember how much i liked Dog Eat Dog and Antmusic. Both completely banging songs. I like the african drum vibe that carries through a lot of the music, but outside of the first two songs, there's nothing that is really great. A bunch of fine songs and a pretty unique sound.
The Smiths
5/5
Definitely an all time classic for me. Vicar is the only song that is a bit too corny/sing-songy for me. The rest is stellar from start to finish.
Ozomatli
2/5
There were definitely some highlights... really like Love and Hope, America? and Te Estoy Buscando. Unfortunately it wasn't enough as much of the rest isn't as interesting or occasionally puts me off.
Buena Vista Social Club
4/5
Has a restrained passion and energy that evokes a small smoky cuban club. Definitely an enjoyable listen and one that i can see listening to more that captures a very cool vibe.
Hawkwind
1/5
Took about 10 seconds to realize this album wasn't for me and i was regretting my commitment to listen to every note of every album on this list. I could have given it two stars if it was only an hour long, but someone decided this deserved a double album and 2 hours and 15 minutes of length. I will say that Down Through the Night was a glimmer of interest, but the rest is pointless noodling dreck.
50 Cent
3/5
Many Men, PIMP and Don't Push Me are highlights for me. It is definitely swagger focused and it gets a little old... not nearly as annoying as kid rock swagger, but it sadly reminded me of that. Overall an interesting listen and parts were enjoyable.
Gotan Project
4/5
Very enjoyable surprise. The pieces sounds simple and stripped down, though they have a very pronounced latin-flavor and layering, with a steady beat that drives them forward. Really enjoyed this offering.
Ray Charles
3/5
I enjoy Ray Charles' voice. Definitely a soul and warmth that elevates the tracks. The album is an easy music-era album to put on and enjoy. I don't think i love any of the songs, but it would be great background music for a mood.
Metallica
4/5
I absolutely love Blackened, Eye of the Beholder and One. Other tracks support the sound and energy but are enough of a step down that it doesn't quite live up to 5 stars for me.
Culture Club
3/5
Though I was not a Culture Club fan in my youth, I cannot deny the delicious pop candy that is Karma Chameleon. It is a great song. After that, Miss Me Blind is also pretty good, but then it drops pretty precipitously for me. The songs are generally okay, but doesn't shine too brightly.
The 13th Floor Elevators
3/5
Quite a bit better than i expected. Enough strong garage rock tracks, good beat, straightforward guitars, with a raw energy. You're Gonna Miss Me, Splash 1 and Kingdom of Heaven were really good.
Aretha Franklin
4/5
Enjoyed the warm and passion in Aretha's voice set over a wide set of enjoyable tracks. Natural Woman is definitely the highlight, but overall a really strong offering.
Pixies
5/5
I don't know how the pixies do it. Not necessarily always melodic or approachable, it is entirely engaging... with a variety that covers anger & energy as well songs with an ethereal quality. Fantastic.
Caetano Veloso
2/5
A little too kitchen sing for me... more a collection of interesting sounds to music than music itself. Not my cup of tea.
Michael Jackson
3/5
Though there a clearly a few hits, i think the pop-disco-funk-70s esthetic is a bit too heavy for my taste, and then the slower songs just seem boring... particularly with pretty lightweight lyrics. A few background vocals even seem a bit off. Still the strength of a few tracks carries it to a 3.
Carole King
5/5
Phenomenal from start to finish. Warm, passionate... this is one of the records i remember from my childhood that my parents would listen to. Listening again, i'm surprised how many track i think are great... probably at least 7.
Manic Street Preachers
3/5
When the album is good, it's really good. Songs like Everything Must Go and Design for Life really soar... they drive forward with energy and rhythm that is really enjoyable. There's a couple more that approach that energy that make it a very close 4, but there's just a few too many tracks that aren't particularly memorable. Still good.
Def Leppard
5/5
Pretty amazing pop-hard rock magic. Definitely has it's own sound and lot of catchy tunes. Though absolutely POP, it still holds up well.
Gang Of Four
2/5
This is a challenging listen, and given all the hype and genre defining work that's here... i was hoping that it would be a bit more "listenable". It's interesting, but there wasn't a song that i actually enjoyed. I was hoping to be a bit more engaged by this, but it unfortunately doesn't work for me.
Don McLean
3/5
Clearly the title track and starry starry night set themselves apart... though there are some other interesting pieces here... empty chairs was decent. Wasn't sure about The Grave, that seemed a bit of a curve ball. On the whole a couple of stellar track and some fair ones.
The Byrds
3/5
Pretty interesting change of pace. The harmonies are nice and there are some pretty cool guitar parts hidden amongst the songs. The songs themselves are pleasant, but pretty boring. The Christian Life was a bit clever/cheeky, but otherwise nothing exceptionally interesting. Still a fine listen.
The Who
2/5
I'll say I was a bit engaged by the drums, but this isn't my favorite Who era and in my opinion doesn't age too well. I'll pass on these.
Arcade Fire
3/5
Definitely interesting and engaging. When it hits, it soars with passion, with Intervention being a big highlight. I also really enjoyed Ocean of Noise and My Body is a Cage, though a lot of the rest of the album is just good... it is a style I enjoy, but not much stands out as being exceptional. Almost a 4.
Beastie Boys
2/5
There's very little a actually enjoy about this album... the instrumentals might actually be a highlight, which made me realize that i really don't like their rapping style or voices. Every Sabotage is a bit weary... though that intro lick is amazing.
Arcade Fire
3/5
Though absolutely my style of music... there just isn't enough that really grabs you. The layers are nice, but the melodies aren't catchy, the lyrics don't seem very compelling and doesn't really pull me in. I did really enjoy Sprawl II and Suburban War.
The Allman Brothers Band
1/5
I'm sorry. The music starts fine, but the soloing/noodling quickly gets tired. I was just going to with a don't really like it rating, but the longer it droned on, the more distasteful and annoying it got. It was a real struggle to get through all this.
Sparks
3/5
Weird and cool. It was really close to pulling a four, as the songs had an appealing operatic/pop/zappa/abba thing going for them that was continually interesting. Definitely liked This Town and Hasta Manana.
Jane's Addiction
3/5
Interesting sound, challenging at times. Stop and Been Caught Stealing definitely stand above the pack, though i really liked Obvious and Three Days as well. Most of the other tracks aren't very memorable.
Love
5/5
Though it goes off at times in some psychedelic pastures, the songs have a warmth and passion with a late 60's eclectic touch. Very enjoyable.
R.E.M.
4/5
I love old R.E.M., but this is actually probably one of my least favorite of their albums. It introduces you to the sound and the aesthetic of R.E.M., but i don't think the songs are as interesting as their other releases. Perfect Circle is probably the strongest here. Still, i enjoy the album and love the band.
Can
2/5
Maybe i haven't listened to enough bad ambient, experimental music to know what good ambient experimental music sounds like. Its not particularly engaging or interesting... doesn't do too much for me.
5/5
An all time classic... certainly one of the best albums of all time. When i'm presented with most other Bowie albums, i'm frequently confused by why they are so loved because none of them seem to come close to this one. This is so easy to enjoy... every song from top to bottom is interesting and exciting. It varies tempo and energy and has such compelling content. Amazing.
The Rolling Stones
5/5
Gimme Shelter is one of the greatest songs of all time. That is an amazing, emotional start to this album. Though it isn't until the last song that you get another complete banger, the rest of the album has plenty of familiar and solid blues-fueled rock. Really really enjoyable.
Funkadelic
2/5
Ugh. Lot to get through that isn't my music. Didn't really enjoy anything until I got to Maggot Brain... but that is just a passionate ass guitar solo. That is da bomb. The rest i can easily let fade away.
Fleetwood Mac
5/5
Pretty ridonkulous. There isn't any filler on this album (okay, maybe Oh Daddy....), everything has beautiful texture and passionate voices. The harmonies are wonderful. Just an amazing album, start to finish.
Method Man
3/5
I like the delivery and most of the content is interesting, though not always my style. Still seems pretty solid.
Supertramp
4/5
Seems like a bit more fun, but still cerebral pink floyd-esque era band. The tracks are strong and have a varied tone/energy that keeps them engaging. Well enjoyed.
The War On Drugs
5/5
I absolutely love Adam's voice and the soft ethereal folk-rock style that still has a driving energy. This really comes together for me. I've enjoyed this and have just put it on repeat all day.
Iron Maiden
4/5
Totally solid. Though i certainly prefer Bruce's voice, this is foundational and the songs really hold up. Love Phantom of the Opera, Iron Maiden and Strange World. The guitar on Transylvania is awesome as well. Charlotte the Harlot was a bad idea though.
Elvis Presley
3/5
Clearly it is iconic and legendary in the what it meant to the changing landscape of music and the beginning of Elvis' career. I'll give it credit for it's role, but overall, not of fan of pretty simple-sounding rockabilly/blues. Fine, but it isn't something i would listen to today.
Digital Underground
2/5
A bit of a grind to get through this album. Humpty Dance is creative and fun, but certainly a bit long in the tooth now. It is creative at times, but the smooth soft talking rapping approach with a funk twang doesn't do it for me. Wanted to turn it off.
The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion
3/5
This was a challenging listen. The first 20 seconds certainly throws you off. Wail is a great track and I definitely got into the slightly off, crass, raw, punk energy of the album. Certainly nothing i expected, but definitely giving it props.
Fairport Convention
2/5
I'm being a little harsh in the rating because this music quickly goes from "fine & unoffensive" to irritating, the longer i listen to it. Genesis Hall was actually a good start, but it just drags on with the minstrel folk music. A Sailor's Life at 11 minutes did me in.
Aerosmith
4/5
It really is an outstanding start with Back in the Saddle and Last Child. Sounds original and a is a great straight rock sound. The rest of the album isn't quite as strong, but is still an exceptional rock & blue sound. Enjoyed.
Bon Jovi
5/5
I certainly recall how this album dominated in the 80's. It's rock with a heavy flourish of pop that at times seems a bit dated, but i certainly can appreciate the 3 bangers on this album as well as a lot of the other strongs are strong. Even though i hadn't heard many of these songs before, i didn't think of any of them as filler. A landmark album.
Red Hot Chili Peppers
3/5
i want to like it a bit more than i actually do. the ballad bits (breaking the girl and under the bridge) are phenomenal. give it away is also incredible, though the rest have a very cool RHCP energy and funk that is unique and exciting. though the remainder don't really elevate the album for me.
Curtis Mayfield
2/5
A bit too dated, too repetitive and uninteresting. Pusherman stood out, but the rest just blends together. The 70’s porn music aesthetic is there at times, but it is only a slight amusement.
Les Rythmes Digitales
3/5
Seems like a ray parker jr.-ghostbusters era synthesizer focused album. There's a few standouts, Dreamin' Hypnotise and Take a Little Time, though too many of the tracks don't really have a drive that holds my attention. Also Music Makes You Lose Control is very difficult to listen to. Ugh.
Mylo
3/5
Another electronic album... this one seems a bit more modern than the last one we listened to, however, it has the same issues. A lot of these songs aren't very engaging, though there are a couple that are just great... Paris Four Hundred and Otto's Journey.
The Louvin Brothers
2/5
It was interesting to hear "In The Pines" as i've only known the Nirvana version. It's the best track on the album, but is pretty straightforward old cowboy singing. It certainly is a genre of music, but doesn't really do much for me. Don't need to listen to again.
Bob Marley & The Wailers
4/5
Great music. As least 6 stellar tracks on the album, and they all hold up pretty wide. Really enjoy the Bob Marley reggae vibe. Easy to listen to on repeat.
The Electric Prunes
3/5
I was a big fan of I Had Too Much to Dream a long time ago, but hadn't heard much else from the Prunes. The album is up and down, but all pretty dated (looking at you, last song). There are a few driving songs, but not enough consistency to push this higher.
The Zombies
3/5
Time of the Season stands out like a sore thumb. Definitely a bright bright light on this album. The rest of clean, pleasant, sometimes whimsical, with quintessential harmonies. Nice, but not much else really memorable.
Patti Smith
4/5
Passionate and raw. A beat poet mixed with punk attitude. Entertaining and snarly. Found this to be really engaging, with good pacing and variety that carried throughout the album.
Antony and the Johnsons
4/5
Wow. Definitely a captivating voice and the first half of Hope There's Someone is breathtaking. Though the album is a bit more hit and miss from there, the passion and story making this a engaging and enjoyable album.
Love
2/5
I think very highly of Forever Changes and was hoping to find more here to enjoy. Unfortunately this is not my cup of tea. It is still a sound of its time and doesn't really have anything as catchy. And then... 19 minutes of Revelation push this off the cliff. No interest in more.
Supergrass
3/5
I don't really love anything here... Alright clearly stands out and Caught By The Fuzz has a moment... but much of the album is just adequate heavily british rock...doesn't really hit me. It's OK.
Jane's Addiction
3/5
Angry and electric. When it's good, its really great. Mountain Song and Jane Says stand out. There is a lot of other good songs, Pig's in Zen, Ocean Size, Up the Beach, but there are a lot of meh tracks that seem to blend together. Still pretty good.
Michael Kiwanuka
3/5
Very smooth soul... a great voice and vibe that occasionally reminded me of Seal... but maybe not as pop-ish. All very listenable tunes, though only a few (Final Days, Solid Ground) stood out for me.
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
4/5
Round and Round is the only mediocre song on the album, the rest have that Neil Young, folk storyteller, weary road traveler vibe. Really enjoyed listening.
Echo And The Bunnymen
3/5
I really like Ian McCullough's voice and the overall alt rock vibe of their music. Silver, Crystal Days, Seven Seas and Killing Moon are strong. Most of the rest is meh, though Thorn of Crowns is definitely a pass. Pretty enjoyable but it's missing a bit of catchiness to push it higher.
Elvis Costello
4/5
Definitely a songwriter album. Lyrics and attitude are on full display and nearly everything is pretty engaging though not always melodic. Though the energy/shift is nice on 20% Amnesia, that is pretty much the only song that doesn't work for me. Love Sulky Girl.
Jean-Michel Jarre
4/5
Very cool atmospheric electronica... that does enough to drive itself forward and capture a groove and vibe and key times. It's remarkable this was recorded in 1976... it holds up well and was a nice surprise in the list.
Wire
4/5
I really enjoyed this. A stripped down punk energy and snarkiness that is fun from start to finish. None of the tracks overstay their welcome and there's enough variation that it stays interesting.
Q-Tip
3/5
It starts pretty good, and songs like Won't Trade strike a good balance between having a beat that drives it forward and having lyrics of interest. Unfortunately, i think a lot of the album leans really heavily on interest from lyrics and the music is just okay. Worth listening to, though not very much my style.
Fun Lovin' Criminals
2/5
Though Scooby Snacks sets itself apart with a cool vibe and energy and excellent sample ideas, I'm not sure i really even enjoy that as a complete song. Bear Hug is also decent, but the rest is pretty meh rock-rap album. Will pass on this.
4/5
Really unique driving electronic rock. There's several stellar songs and much of the rest is pretty engaging and enjoyable. Soldier's Poem is a small miss, but the rest of this album is great.
Jungle Brothers
3/5
This was surprising. I just listened to Fun Lovin' Criminals, and i was thinking that was fine, but this album showed how to make the Hip Hop vibe even more approachable. It's got a cool disco-funk vibe with the hip hop delivery. Enjoyed though not something i would listen to on my own.
Ananda Shankar
2/5
Okay, it was pretty wild to get some familiar covers in a Sitar world-music style. However, can't say i really want to listen to them more than as a curiosity.
Bruce Springsteen
5/5
Amazing album. Atlantic City is clearly one of Bruce's all time best, but the album itself is very writer and story focus. The songs are engaging and convey a pretty compelling honesty and passion. Really enjoyable.
OutKast
2/5
Wow... this is so uneven. Hey Ya is incredible and there are several other songs that feel like fully fleshed out idea... unfortunately so much of this double album sounds like one experiment after another. not really a full song, but an idea that might become a song, but they put it down anyway. Some of the later tracks (e.g. My Favorite Things) are also a pretty challenging listen. I wanted to like this more, but by the end i was so happy it was finally over.
Massive Attack
3/5
I really enjoy the style/mood from Massive Attack, though I didn't find anything that had a real hook or was particularly catchy... just a cool vibe. Props.
Can
1/5
I have no idea how someone listens to this and says 5 stars. I was hanging in okay through the first 4 tracks. Didn't like it, but it was just slightly excessive in experimental/psychedelic. And then unfortunately Aumgn and Peking O. showed up. No part of that is actually enjoyable to listen to a second time. Unexpected on the first, but no reason to go back. Ugh.
Spiritualized
2/5
Chalk this up to another one I do not get. It varies between being a dissonant noisy mess and a boring mundane drag. The fact that it labors this through 16+ minute songs isn’t an improvement.
Yes
2/5
Roundabout is great. And mood for a day has a classical vibe to it. Unfortunately much of the rest doesn't really work for me. The vocal layers and harmonies aren't pleasant (occasionally dated and it even sounds out of tune) and the prog-rock nature of it emerges and gets a bit boring.
Moby Grape
2/5
Dated harmony heavy psychedelic rock. It doesn't hold up for me and there's little here to keep me engaged. Lazy Me is OK.
Donovan
2/5
There are some interesting arrangements and instruments used, though the majority of this is monumentally boring. I don't particularly care for the hits from this album, and there's little for me to want to listen to again.
Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five
2/5
The maybe The Message tries to be a bit deeper than the rest, the lyrics are grade A dumb. There is some interesting musical inventiveness, but it is just completely overwhelmed by regrettable vocals and lyrics.
Brian Eno
4/5
Pretty compelling. It has an experimental rock-punk vibe, that seems a cross of Bowie-Roxy Music-Talking Heads with a inventive Pink Floyd at times. This a bit more eccentric, the tracks really seem to work. I didn't like Blank Frank, but essentially everything else was enjoyable. Really good.
Kate Bush
3/5
It really starts strong and it is solid, interesting, ethereal at times and pretty inventive. But it takes a crazy turn at Waking the Witch and then doesn't seem to get back on track.
5/5
Absolutely stellar. Both melodic and angry, with plenty of attitude. So many great songs on this album, start to finish.
The Mothers Of Invention
1/5
Avant garde? Eclectic? A difficult listen? You think you're doing okay and then "It Can't Happen Here and Return of the Son of Monster Magnet" wrap up the album. It might be smart music, it just doesn't come across that way. A very rough go.
Daft Punk
3/5
I thought the first half of the album was pretty strong, with Da Funk and Around the World really standing out. Then it took a turn at Rollin' & Scratchin' and I wasn't getting into the beat/vibe as much, it seemed a lot more experimental and was getting away from being a cool multi-layered driving dance track. Still, an interesting listen.
Fever Ray
5/5
I really really got into this. The brooding electronic rhythm and beats are perfectly matched for the bjork-esque vocals. Triangle Walks and Keep the Streets Empty are really strong, though the whole album keeps that vibe and hits for me.
Various Artists
3/5
Completely pleasant motown stylings of the christmas classics. What you would expect.
Elton John
5/5
On helluva musical adventure. Though there are a few that really stand out, the impressive part is that track after track, the writing, the energy, lyrical delivery, variety and melody are outstanding. Truly enjoyed.
Os Mutantes
2/5
Eclectic and unusual. It was a difficult album to latch on to anything, but by the time i got to Ave Genghis Khan, i was actually ok with that track. A challenging and interesting listen, but i can't quite call it enjoyable.
Tracy Chapman
5/5
Stellar singer-songwriter offering. Revolution, Fast Car and For My Lover stand above the rest, though all the songs are well crafted and enjoyable.
Dinosaur Jr.
3/5
Pretty interesting. Not everything is very approachable... much of the time, both lyrics and music feel pretty noisy/messy... not really a clear melody with background falling into the background and the aggressive music takes over. It has it's hard noise element that reminds me of the Pixies. Still, a worthwhile listen.
Black Flag
4/5
There is no pink pop here. This is thrashy punk that emphasizes biting guitars and lots of crazy angsty energy from Henry. Props.
The Verve
5/5
Very impressive album. The feel, tone and melodies are consistently great. I really enjoyed Drugs Don't Work, Lucky Man and Space & Time... i was surprised that track after track is solid and really easy to enjoy/appreciate on the first listen. Adding it to the Library.
Gorillaz
3/5
Really a unique sound and vibe. I think it is pretty easy to enjoy for its eclectic groove. Though there are some experimental songs on the back half, the first 6 songs were pretty strong, with Clint Eastwood being very catchy. I did also like 19-2000... overall it was very interesting, but not something that i would go back to.
The Soft Boys
3/5
It definitely starts strong... I Wanna Destroy You and Kingdom of Love are strong catchy edge alternative british rock... some kind of byrds and oasis blending with a dose of eccentric. Later the eccentric takes a bit more center stage and Mr. Hitchcock goes a-wandering. The lyrics seem weird for weird-sake, but Tonight and Queen of Eyes are also good. Its fine, but there's not much i want to go back to listen to.
Frank Sinatra
3/5
You know what you get with Frank Sinatra. It's entirely fine.
Johnny Cash
5/5
Surprised. In our carefully crafted modern culture I had no idea you could have a prison concert and jokingly sing about killing people and dogs. The songs were strong, the live set fun, and the irreverence elevated it.
Dolly Parton
4/5
Pretty surprising. It's strong and sweet at the same time. Plenty of country twang, but it is set on top of a lot of above average songs. They aren't just pleasant, but are engaging both lyrically and melodically. This consistency pushes it to a 4.
De La Soul
3/5
Quite a bit of variety here... though there are plenty of skit or throwaway songs that would make me just want to skip them if I listened to the album multiple times. The more fully developed tracks have cool samples and an interesting style. Though I don't really enjoy this style much, it is pretty interesting.
Iron Maiden
4/5
Bruce Dickinson's voice is amazing and there's a lot to enjoy on this album. Hard and driving, with enough immediately catchy riffs and variety that makes it compelling. Definitely like the haunting parts of Children of the Damne and Hallowed Be Thy Name. Really enjoyable.
Kanye West
5/5
So sad where we are now. This album is epic and brilliant. So lyrically engaging, the beats are strong, and the sampling/creativity is off the charts. The diversity across the tracks is amazing and it is just compelling... track after track. So sad to see where he is now as an artist.
The Human League
3/5
The synth stylings are a bit a product of their time... though it is wrapped around a pretty decent set of songs. Most of them are an interesting listen, though nothing quite stands out as well as Don't You Want Me. Enjoyable.
Dusty Springfield
4/5
Her voice is stellar and soulful. There's enough high points here that make me want to listen to it multiple times. Very enjoyable.
Mudhoney
3/5
It's origins clearly show through in the seattle/grunge sound. Very Nirvana/Soundgarden... though the vocalist doesn't seem to have the passion/voice of Kurt or Chris. Nothing is immediately catchy, but the raw energy of the tracks are pretty good. If I Think stands out for me.
TV On The Radio
3/5
I wished i liked it more. The music aspect is interesting and engaging.... but the vocal element is a whispery & Prince-shrieky in an unusual way. It works for the music, but i don't always enjoy it. Still, songs like DLZ are killer and there are high points in several other tracks. A pretty interesting listsen.
Peter Frampton
4/5
It certainly evokes a summer evening rock concert. Though the sound is a bit mushy (I find it harder to find the melody in the soungs), it doesn't sound dated. I really enjoyed hearing good guitar solos again... and without any duds... just some killer tracks and other fun atmosphere to soak up. Really cool.
Throbbing Gristle
1/5
Put me in the list of folks that doesn't understand this. AB/7A is the only track that actually sounds like a song and is fine. I also found United in its slowed down state (as opposed to the 16 second version), but it nothing too noteworthy. Certainly a challenging listen and nothing that i could understand revisiting.
Stan Getz
4/5
Super smooth and easy to enjoy. Seminal in the merging of the bossa nova and jazz sound. Getz is amazing.
The Cars
5/5
Bangerz! Frickin' 7 out of 9 tracks on this album are killer. Definitely an unusual rock / alternative style that is unique and engaging. Great album.
Queen
4/5
Certainly Bohemian Rhapsody is one of those songs that seems a wonder on how you go from a blank page to a fully finished song like that... there seems nothing else like it. Amazing. The rest of the album is still good, grandiose and definitely a show... embracing Freddie's amazing voice. An interesting and enjoyable listen.
Waylon Jennings
4/5
Definitely carries that traveling cowboy vibe with better than average lyrical content. Really easy to approach and enjoy, with enough really strong tracks to make it stand out. Thought Omaha and Black Rose were the best.
The Jesus And Mary Chain
4/5
enjoyable, haunting, jangling, echoy and driving. very alternative pop. easy to like.
Van Halen
5/5
Man, 9 tracks and 33 minutes. Though 3 songs i might consider filler, they still have the eddie and alex sound that makes those interesting as well (with that dose of a synth sound... but not too overdone to not fit in). The rest are pretty much a greatest hits list. Stellar stellar album.
Fishbone
2/5
It feels like too many of the tracks rely on you solely appreciating the energy/tempo, quirkiness or a deeper meaning attempted in the lyrics. Unfortunately too many of the songs, seem to only have that. I did appreciate Ma & Pa, Pouring Rain and Mighty Long Way as a bit more approachable and songs like Bonin' in the Boneyard have a bit more interesting musical energy. Still, too much of it I would skip through on a repeat listen.
Kraftwerk
3/5
Definitely has a consistent and interesting vibe. Though i understand it is seminal record in its field, and was very unique for its time, i'm not sure it does a lot behind being innovative for its time. Easy to listen to, but there's nothing that just stands out as worthy or repeat listens.
The Yardbirds
2/5
Too dated and there's nothing really that enjoyable/catchy that rises above the 60's rock schtick. The first half of Ever Since the World Began sounds like a good black sabbath intro if they took it a little heavier. But then it turns poppy. Ugh.
The Clash
5/5
Really well written, varied, intelligent punkish rock. With all my troubles getting through long albums on this list, it is impressive this album really maintains listener engagement through all 19 tracks. Absolutely stellar.
PJ Harvey
4/5
Surprisingly raw, hard and angry. She does a good job varying the pacing and energy to have greater impact. About midway through i was concerned that it began to be too samesy, but the last few tracks keep it interesting overall. Its definitely stronger than a 3, but i'm rounding up a bit in hitting the 4.
Run-D.M.C.
3/5
I recognize for its contribution and the way that it moved rock-rap forward. I do really like Raising Hell and You Be Illing. It new and game changing, but today it feels more one note. I don't need to listen to it much more, but still an important listen.
DJ Shadow
4/5
This was significantly more interesting than i expected. A ethereal tubular bells vibe mixed in with a bit of hip hop beat. It was quite atmospheric and there were enough cool tracks to make it worth listening to.
Laura Nyro
3/5
She channels a bit of Carole King for me, though i didn't particularly love any songs. Stoned Soul Picnic was probably the most interesting for me, but overall it was pleasant... soulful voice over not very memorable songs.
Red Snapper
3/5
The all instrumental pieces worked better for me... both the first (Keeping Pigs Together) and last (They're Hanging Me Tonight) were the strongest for me. Not enough on the album really engaged me, though overall in was an interesting listen.
SAULT
3/5
Though this was very message heavy, the delivery was varied and interesting to keep me engaged for longer than expected. It gets a bit tired by the end, but there are several tracks that are quite enjoyable.
Dead Kennedys
4/5
I really like Jello's delivery and heavy sarcastic humor delivered across the album. There's also enough creativity and variation in melody and delivery that keeps the album pretty engaging. Holiday in Cambodia stands out.
Bonnie Raitt
3/5
Bonnie's voice is souful and expressive; the music is best when it avoids the period-dating synthesizer that is too featured in many of these songs. It definitely makes it feel more 80's than it deserves. An enjoyable listen overall.
Grant Lee Buffalo
4/5
It took a few iterations through the album before it took a hold, but i like the overall style and tone. Certainly very 80's/90's alternative... a good balance of interesting lyrics and instrumentation. Songs like Fuzzy and The Hook are really strong, but there's lots of treats along the way.
Slade
3/5
Really didn't enjoy the Janis Joplin move over cover, but most of the rest of the album is a pretty energetic, mostly entertaining rock album... though i can't help but think i wouldn't really listen much here as it seems Led Zeppelin was doing everything much better at the time.
The Velvet Underground
2/5
This is a really challenging album... it's messy and plenty of eclectic parts that start to take some of the straightforward nature of the velvet underground sound and start to twist it. I can't find much here to appreciate. A pass.
The Fall
3/5
This was a pretty challenging album, though the driving energy of the first half of the album carries it pretty far... the lyrics seem pretty sparse, so i'm not sure what to make of them. The latter half of the album seems a bit more experimental and isn't quite as compelling, but overall a pretty interesting album.
John Martyn
3/5
Just a bit "meh". I like the singer/songwriter/folksy vibe, with the occasional jazzy interpretation overall, but not many songs are very interesting to listen to. I do like May You Never, and Don't Want to Know and The Man in the Station, but most of the rest is just fair.
Anita Baker
3/5
Soulful singer. The pieces have interesting melodies, but the synth and 80's feeling funk seem a bit dated. Overall, it has some interest but doesn't fully pull me in and engage.
Kacey Musgraves
5/5
This seems like an easy 5. There are so many songs that are engaging.... though Rainbow and Butterflies are nearly perfect, most of the rest of the album shows strength with both melody and lyrical content. Very easy to appreciate.
Morrissey
5/5
Not one of my favorite Morrissey albums, but he is still an artist where his music is eclectic and passionate with wonderful & introspective lyrics. It's unfortunate that he's leaned heavily into a bit of a twat persona, but i am still thoroughly engaged in his music.
The Flaming Lips
4/5
I'm a huge Yoshi fan and this certainly has hints of where that album is going. I like Wayne's vocal delivery, a sincere understated honesty that works so well with this music. Pretty solid album, though Feeling Yourself Disintigrate and Race for the Prize are highlights.
Destiny's Child
4/5
It is a delicious pop R&B tour. Lots of catchy melodies and beats, with some clear highlights with Survivor, Bootylicious and Dangerously in Love. However, i have no idea what to make of Outra Thank You. I could tolerate maybe 30 seconds of them doting on their bandmates, but holy god... 4 minutes?!??! I'm giving them a pass on this, pretending it wasn't added to the album.
Stereolab
2/5
The abundance of french doesn't make this too approachable alone, but it is really pretty experimental and the vocal are very frequently sounding out of tune/awkward, making it harder to approach. Noise of Carpet was particularly rough. Ultimately, there's not much here to enjoy other than as an intellectual experiment.
Stevie Wonder
4/5
Though it starts a little slow for me, the album shows a pretty surprising diversity of soul, funk and a caribbean cha cha vibe of Don't You Worry. All really easy to enjoy, and Higher Ground is a funktastic amazing party of a song.
Eels
4/5
A somewhat restrained alternative rock release. Pretty consistent and solid... engaging to listen to. Enjoyed Rags to Rags, Not Ready Yet and Guest List.
Madness
3/5
I like a lot of Madness' quirkiness and ska mix of pop, however, other the songs here other than Our House and Tomorrow's Just Another Day feel a bit more like half-thoughts of songs than a fully fleshed out idea. Its unusual and interesting, but this album doesn't have me coming back for repeat listens.
GZA
4/5
Really surprised how easy this is to enjoy. Gritty, with a great flow and lyrical creativity. I like the delivery and atmospheric feel that is layered onto the tracks... definitively fits here and helps this album stand out.
Creedence Clearwater Revival
3/5
It has a raw rock blues energy that does a pretty decent job of not being too stuck in the time period. Born on the Bayou and Proud Mary are certainly strong, with the rest holding pretty steady (not sure what to say about the word "chooglin'" though)... still i don't really like fogerty's voice, so i respect this more than i enjoy it.
The Velvet Underground
5/5
Other than Murder Mystery, which is a bit of a challenging listen, the album is pretty easy to approach, entertaining and interesting. It captures an intelligent artsiness that is appealing. A great listen.
Taylor Swift
4/5
Pretty and peaceful. Very approachable and songs like willow and no body, no crime are exceptional. Had a great time listening to this multiple times.
k.d. lang
3/5
I like kd lang's voice. Most of these songs are pretty forgettable, very pleasant and easy to listen to, but nothing really sticks other than Constant Craving.
Sly & The Family Stone
3/5
Solid, but nothing I was a huge fan of. An enjoyable worthwhile listen.
Germs
3/5
I think if i was of this scene, this is music i would better identify with and embrace. Spending a little time with the lyrics as well certainly shows a deeper than average punk content, but man is Darby incomprehensible. Without lyrics, I'd have no idea what he is saying. I don't think there is an album that better conveys the sneer & attitude (i think it even steps it up one from the Sex Pistols... though their album is much more melodic and approachable). A very interesting ride.
Amy Winehouse
5/5
A striking and powerful contemporary soul album... there's really no filler here. Everything is good or really good. Engaging lyrics and Amy's beautiful voice.
Pretenders
4/5
This type of album is so sorely missed these days. A straight ahead rock record with some engaging writing, both lyrically and melodically. It excels both with slower tempo Kid/Brass in Pockets as well as high energy tracks like Tattooed Love Boys.
Raekwon
4/5
Lyrically dense and challenging. Definitely provides a dark portrait of inner city life coupled with some pretty engaging layered music. The samples enhance the mood and I really enjoyed Raekwon's delivery (as well as his guest rappers). Impressive album (even though the interludes do detract a bit for me).
Ice Cube
4/5
Provides a grim and realistic portrait of the time around the LA riots and Rodney King. Powerful message, delivered in a smart manner with some good production that polished it well. Engaging and enjoyable.
Dirty Projectors
2/5
It sounds like alternative music that has a band and consistent melody and rhythm and applied and erratic, jazz structure. Quite challenging to listen to.
The Kinks
5/5
I love this album. Waterloo, Sunset and death of a clown are some of my favorite songs. I could definitely lose no return. Otherwise, it’s a great British album that those sounding a little dated has plenty of melody and witty writing.
Dire Straits
5/5
A pretty amazing album. The guitar work is special... it has so many soulful flourishes that continually make the music more expressive and integration. Every track is strong, with Sultans of Swing being an all time great. Can listen to this over and over.
Johnny Cash
3/5
Wow, this is unusual. It's totally outlaw Johnny Cash attitude and the simple country vibe... but 10 songs, 34 minutes, and he plays the same song twice? His delivery on Boy Named Sue is incredible, not enough else to quite make a 4 for me.
The Stooges
2/5
I wanted to like this better, but everything seems so basic to seem to be parroting when a band learns 3 chords and starts to craft numbingly boring songs. The lyrics seem of the same quality, and though i try to find some raw energy to appreciate, it just is overall pretty boring.
The Stone Roses
4/5
Easily enjoyable. Though the vocals and music kind of lose each other in places, it has a cool alternative rock vibe that has UK flavor and enjoyable melodies.
Janelle Monáe
3/5
She has a beautiful voice and the production is amazingly polished and clean. The music is smooth, soulful and easy to listen to. Though i could appreciate certain aspects, i didn't engage too much with it.
Bob Dylan
5/5
Seems to be Dylan at his best. Very engaging and enjoyable.
Lightning Bolt
4/5
Very surprising. It's a bit challenging and very noisy, however, i was really impressed at how i engaged with the repetitive driving riff of nearly every song (yeah, 30,000 monkeys, i'm looking at you). it was very enjoyable.
Duke Ellington
4/5
Not normally a huge jazz fan as it feels too technically chaotic and doesn't hit that "cool swing" vibe for me often enough. This is as close as i've had to the finger snapping swing vibe that works for me. Enjoyed... and the solo in Diminuendo is pretty epic.
Coldplay
4/5
Really well crafted, delivering its melodic hooks and interesting arrangements with subtlety and nuance. A bit ethereal and dark that sets a cool mood. Very enjoyable.
Dr. Octagon
2/5
I'll definitely give it points for creativity. It definitely has more of a glorious art project vibe that just a straightforward rap album. I did enjoy the electronic slant of the layers, but ultimately the theme doesn't work for me and though the raps are creative, it just seems at times to be a word salad... about some alien gynecologist. I'm Destructive was the strongest for me.
Fela Kuti
3/5
Definitely appreciated that it was mix of styles, african drums, a bit of a jazzy flair and even some R&B vibe. The 16 drum solo was pretty unnecessary, but clearly there was a push to put Ginger Baker all over this.
The Police
4/5
Was interesting to listen to it more intently, because the police certainly have pretty interesting/unusual music... seems pretty percussion focused, odd time signatures, and very distinct instrument sounds. Really good album.
Emerson, Lake & Palmer
2/5
Ugh. This is the roughest of the synthesizer era where the organ-sounding noodling just sounds horrible today. When they steer away from the synth, it improves, and i was in the solid "2" category for my rating... and then along comes Ready for Eddy, demanding that i give this album a "1". However, Eddy was gone in just about 2 minutes, preserving the "2" for ELP.
Scott Walker
3/5
Grandiose engelbert humperdink like quality here. Not sure who the audience was here, but definitely the interesting aspect here was that the lyrics were much more creative and interesting than the typical schlock. Certainly seems a bit dated style, but was entertaining.
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
4/5
I found this quite enjoyable. Pretty polished and engaging mix of electronic pop and alt rock, with Heads Will Roll and Dull Life standing out for me. The consistency of the tracks raise it up a notch for me.
PJ Harvey
4/5
A bit challenging of a listen, but i like the raw emotional songs that have an occasionally aggressive musical energy. Oh My Lover and Water work best for me, though the album is pretty engaging.
3/5
Not exactly my style, but there were only minor annoyances in the prog rock noodling. I'll give it respect votes, and didn't mind listening through it.
Aerosmith
4/5
Pretty refreshing to hear some straight ahead rock and roll. Though not everything hits, the combo of love in an elevator, janie, other side and what it takes push this as a pretty solid, impressive release. Enjoyed.
Mariah Carey
3/5
Very polished and produced. Smooth sweet soulful R&B vibe. Main detraction is that everything blends together on the first listen through... very ballad heavy. Enjoyed Close My Eyes and Whenever You Call.
Steely Dan
4/5
Fantastic. Dirty Work is my favorite, though there are lots of standouts, and nearly everything is very easy to enjoy. Polished and melodic.
The Pretty Things
3/5
This was pretty interesting and quite varied. It definitely had the late 60's psychedelic influence, but harmonies and styles reminded me of the beatles (sgt. peppers) at times, as well as early decca-era bowie and 60's pink floyd. bracelets of fingers, trust, loneliest person were highlights for me... but it also goes pretty weird in some spots.
John Cale
2/5
I think the album starts pretty well, and though Paris 1919 is really strong, it becomes apparent that John Cale's voice seems to have a really narrow range. Wherever he seems to have to push his range, the vocals just don't come off well. The Antarctica whisper approach isn't an improvement. This was potential here, but it didn't hit for me.
Calexico
3/5
I enjoyed the alternative + latin mellow mariachi mixed in. Good mix of instrumental/vibe tracks and lyric tracks. Liked Close Behind the most and Sunken Waltz was a good intro. Enjoyed the experience.
The Doors
3/5
Certainly seems a seminal work with Love Her Madly, LA Woman and Riders of the Storm. It has such a strong blues-rock feel and stands out that though being a product of 1970, it doesn't sound particularly dated. Really liked Crawling King Snake.
Sepultura
3/5
Not sure what makes this part of the 1001, but certain seems like a consistent fast metal album. It certainly has a samey-ness that carries through track after track.... fast drums, fast guitar, and a pretty monotone shouting vocal delivery. I did get a kick out of Orgasmatron.
A Tribe Called Quest
2/5
I just don't like Q-Tip's voice. Its a little too much like someone singing with a cold and just grates on me. I can't get past that.
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
4/5
I was surprised how melodic and almost folk-pop this album was. He had good harmonies on a lot of the tracks and even his 10 minute epics of Love to Burna nd Love and Only Love were enoyable. Really liked White Line and Mansion on the Hill.
Pink Floyd
5/5
Melodic and ethereal. It's an amazing album from start to finish. Definitely a classic.
Pantera
3/5
After listening to Sepultura, this is slightly more melodic. There is more of an effort to find a driving riff or groove and then a couple of songs that slow the tempo down to ballad level.... with Hollow actually having something that is closer to singing. Energetic aggressive set. Seems good in doses but a bit exhausting by the end.
Randy Newman
4/5
Not sure i can sing along with that... a pretty incredible storyteller type album, both satire and situational. Randy Newman has a great casual delivery that hides the seriousness and dark wit. Strong music and melody. This is good.
Klaxons
3/5
Pretty up and down. Some songs tend to be pretty challenging to listen to... the rave element seems to add a wall of electronic buzz at times... not all of it is effective for me. Songs like As Above So Below and It's Not Over Yet are really strong, though there's a few too many songs I'd want to skip if i was listening to it more.
ABBA
4/5
The thing i noted most is how different this is than many other "hit" albums. Most other popular albums actually sounds strange... the hits stand out as so much better than everything around it, you wonder if they really are the same band. This album is really consistent with melodies and energy, and the not-hit songs are only just the slightest bit off from being hits of their own. Pretty banger.
The Who
3/5
I really didn't think of Pete Townshend as such a aggressive guitarist, though this set really shows off prominent guitar solos and lots of flourish. High energy, though the songs here aren't my favorites.
David Holmes
3/5
I was ready to disregard the whole album. The street interludes don't add to the experience... they are distracting, and i can't imagine that i'd want to hear them if i kept playing the album over and over. The ambient/electronic music is okay... a little experimental at times, but generally pretty ordinary. I perked up a bit for Radio 7" as an interesting James Bond take, but the album was really redeemed for me on Don't Die Just Yet. That song has a vibe and just rides its groove the whole way. That was fantastic, the rest pretty forgettable.
Jethro Tull
4/5
I didn't have high expectations, particularly as it was partially classified as prog rock, though i think ultimately the album is pretty solid and varied... albeit with more flute. Locomotive Breath stands out for me, but overall it is an enjoyable album.
Christina Aguilera
4/5
Surpringsly banging! Her voice really is amazing and the album does have a strong melodic focus. 20 tracks is too long and songs like Dirrty and Make Over detract from the overall experience. But Walk Away, Fighter, Beautiful, Cruz, Keep on Singing... and more. Really enjoyed this.
The Cure
5/5
Instant 5. My favorite Cure album... the dark brooding pained vocals and music are immediately compelling. A Short Term Effect and A Strange Day stand out, but the first 6 tracks all make but Cure Greatest Hits list. Love this album.
Syd Barrett
2/5
This is more of a novelty/curiosity than actually something that i would consider "good". Uneven vocals and pretty casual song structure... I do get the similar vibe to Piper and Saucerful, but those definitely have more attempts at pop/psychedelic songs.
Shivkumar Sharma
2/5
It's hard to be harsh on something so innocuous... though i really wouldn't be able to tell you if it was 40 minutes of changing music or the same 1 minute on a loop. I know that's on me, but it doesn't do anything for me and not something i enjoy, even as background music.
Simply Red
2/5
This is a pretty irritating album, especially by the time we get to No Direction. It reminds me of when Terence Trent D'Arby went off the tracks. A wonderful initial soulful album and then just it went weird, not particularly melodic, and funk without fun. It's surprising how good Holding Back the Years is compared to how mediocre/bad the rest of the album is. Would not do it again.
Kelela
4/5
I really enjoyed the electronic R&B vibe and Kelela's soulful voice. Better and Blue Light stand out for me. The music blends together a bit, but it seems like great background music that you can play over and over.
Dizzee Rascal
2/5
It is interesting. The music is layered and has an electronic vibe mixed with it that makes it more dynamic. I definitely got the vibe on Fix Up, Look Sharp, but Dizzee's delivery and voice and not my cup of tea. A little too high pitched staccato, which makes it a bit of a slog to get through the whole album.
Björk
3/5
I kind of like the ethereal, hypnotic vibe of Bjork's music, though it is really pretty hard to distinguish many of the pieces if it weren't for the occasionally repeated phrase in the lyrics. An interesting listen.
The Libertines
3/5
Solid, though not as consistent and melodic as either Oasis or Arctic Monkeys. In addition to Ha Ha Wall, I liked Last Post and the Man Who Would Be King. I like the style and tone, just not enough to want to come back and relisten.
Rocket From The Crypt
3/5
There are some really strong moments on this. On a Rope, Young Livers and Drop Out stand high for me. This was close to a 4 for me, but a bit too much of it blurs together and isn't very memorable. Still enjoyed quite a bit of it.
Paul Revere & The Raiders
3/5
You pretty much know what you're getting into, as this is the sound of 60's rock/pop with clean melodies and harmonies. Kicks starts it strong, but the remainder is pretty forgettable. Nothing offensive but nothing exciting either.
Deep Purple
2/5
Certainly there are some majestic 70's live hard rock moments in here... highway star and smoke on the water especially... though at some point I even hit the groove somewhere deep within Space Truckin'. However, so much of this is overdone and self-important... the drum solo in mule and vocalist-guitar battle in strange kind of woman is irritating. There was too much i didn't like for the few brighter spots.
Ryan Adams
3/5
This one is really close to being higher. I think Firecrack, Answering Bell and La Cienega are awesome. But after that, everything is okay, kinda in the same vein, all pleasant and polite lyrical rock... but nothing that stands out too much. Its fine, but seems very samey.
Burning Spear
4/5
Enjoyed it a lot. Definitely a classic reggae vibe with enough harmonies and style to be easily approachable. Some like Give Me, Tradition, Jordan River and Resting Place were really strong in addition to Marcus Garvey and Slavery Days. Adding it to my music library.
Marianne Faithfull
4/5
Nice little surprise. Though some of the synthesizer/electronic vibe that is layered behind many of the songs date it a bit, there really isn't anything here that isn't strong... it's a pretty consistent interesting album. I enjoyed her take on Working Class Hero as well as songs like Broken English and Guilt.
Sabu
1/5
There are some tracks that show promise... where there are congos, maybe some basic vocalizing and additional rhythm that gives some diversity. But then it just delves way too deep until calls/cries, monotone bongo only rhythms, and kitchen sink type sound contributions. Happy to not listen to this again.
Beatles
5/5
Pretty nice to come across a simply enjoyable and wonderful album like this. There's both darker and brighter pieces, but all are memorable and engaging. I'm not sure i fully appreciate the small snippets of songs on the back half, but there enough good pieces in there that keep it fun.
Suede
4/5
I like the brooding alternative rock. It fades a bit towards the end (starting at Black or Blue), but nearly everything up to that point is melodic, dark and pretty enjoyable. Will add this to the library for future listens.
Faith No More
4/5
Quite a nice surprise. Though i was familiar with Epic, wasn't sure what to expect from the rest of the album. Though not all the rap works for me, it is blended with with aggressive/energetic music, melodies, and some decent singing. I think even instrumental pieces work here and the war pigs cover is really good. Strong album.
Eagles
4/5
Three solid home run tracks, and Tryin' is pretty strong too. Though i have no idea why "Chug All Night" was thought to be a good idea here, the rest of passable. Interesting to get a taste of where the Eagles started.
Alice In Chains
5/5
Music i love from one of my favorite bands. Layne Staley's voice is perfect for this dark, angry, aggressive sound.
3/5
Inventive and interesting. Satisfaction is a pretty damned creative interpretation of the song that is entirely catchy, bizarre and engaging. Mongoloid is also good, but most of the rest is strange quirky unusual, more than it is enjoyable. Challenging and fun.
Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
3/5
Really didn't expect this... thought it was going to be more like country-pop... especially since the only thing i know by the band is American Dream. That is SOOOO not this band. This is O Brother Where Art Thou?. It is way too long at 2 hours, but it stays true with lots of banjo, some instrumentals, and what seems like music that could have been handed down for generations. Interesting.
Stay With Me is great, and the whole blues rock vibe is really strong. it's impressive that the result doesn't sound dated like a lot from this time period, just classic. Love Lives Here is my favorite.
Green Day
4/5
Wonderful pop punk. Enjoyed the short quick nugget approach of these songs. Interesting that all the big hits are the only ones over 3 minutes (when i come around is the 4th hit at 2:58). Still lots to enjoy here.
The Fall
2/5
I absolutely enjoy the lead track Frightened, and I thought that was going to be the level of alternative approachability... but i was very wrong. Album becomes much more challenging... uneven timely, a lot of shouting over music, and though some of it evokes a good punk angst, there is also cringey singing attempts. Interesting.
The Darkness
4/5
Really impressive, though it seems a test whether you can handle the falsetto rock voice. I'm on board. I would say every song (except the last) is strong, with lots of entertaining, campy melodic "metal" (though more poppy hard rock with a falsetto metal singer). Definitely enjoyed.
Scissor Sisters
4/5
Solid and fun. The first few bars of Laura are incredibly catchy and just have me bouncing along. A lot of the other track and similarly fun and a bit of a modern, peppy electronic elton john. I was intrigued by their Comfortably Numb cover, but that was probably the track that landed least with me. Still enjoyable.
Tangerine Dream
3/5
I'm definitely recognize the cool and interesting aspects of this, particularly given that it was released in 1974. It is definitely a headphones, close your eyes and imagine the space journey. glad i listened to it, though i don't see really going back to it. solid.
Marvin Gaye
4/5
Smooth and an easily approachable sound. The title track and Inner City Blues stand out the most for me... both soulful with a an amazing melodic and groove. Enough of the rest keep the cool vibe going that the album is very enjoyable.
Janet Jackson
5/5
This album is pretty amazing for how many great song/hits it contains. Though the interludes and theme don't make the package better, there's at least 5 great songs, catchy, melodic and enjoyable.
Pavement
3/5
A lo-fi, college production that seems earnest and original. There's a number of songs that really carry well, Trigger Cut, Here, and Two States. Unfortunately, there's a pretty good portion that is more experimental or odd and makes me want to push through it quicker. Definitely an interesting listen.
Holger Czukay
3/5
Quirky and unusual, but infinitely more approachable than the Can album we previously experienced. Though Cool in the Pool is mostly weird on the first listen, it did grow on me a bit. Persian Love seems the best of the rest, though overall reasonably interesting.
Joan Baez
3/5
Sure she has a compelling voice, but the warbly signing over a sort guitar is not exactly my cup of tea. Certainly House of the Rising Sun is the most interesting here. Overall it's fine, just not something i'd come back to.
Sepultura
3/5
Seems a bit more creative than the previous Sepultura album... some longer instrumental segments and additional percussion/native vibes mixed in. Still, it is heavy, aggressive, and the vocalist style is a bit paralyzing... maybe i'm old, but some of the parts just sound like he's killing his voice, almost wince inducing. Reasonably interesting, but definitely long.
The Sonics
2/5
Maybe it was the wrong day for me to listen to this, but the singers hollering/squealing (ala jerry lee lewis, little richard, etc). is irritating. the 60's stripped down rock isn't necessarily bad, just the vocal delivery is a pretty big put off. pass.
Peter Gabriel
5/5
The more i listen to it, the problems i initial detect start to disappear and each track has some mood or meaning that fits in the whole. Even the quirky Excuse Me i've begun to appreciate. The tracks are interesting, lyrically and musically. I'm fully engaged.
Public Enemy
4/5
Rap and Funk meshed together so well. Though i would probably prefer about 75% less Flavor Flav on it, i understand that he is a great contrast to Chuck D's heart attack serious delivery and style. Very good.
James Brown
4/5
Not what i expected. Very hip, soulful, bluesy and electric energy. Enjoyed it from start to finish. James Brown is very dynamic in this set.
Dexys Midnight Runners
3/5
Kevin Rowland definitely has a slight cry-baby singing style that seems overdone at times... and the falsetto approach on "yorkshire" is a hard pass. Still, the first few tracks, including Burn It Down and Tell Me When... are really enjoyable. A bit too uneven to rank higher, but an interesting listen.
Neneh Cherry
3/5
Buffalo Stance certainly stands above the rest of the album, but it is engaging in that it is a good mix of both melody and rap.
Echo And The Bunnymen
3/5
I enjoy the general vibe and Ian McCullough's voice. The main thing that doesn't click for me is the melodies tend to not be very memorable. I like Do It Clean and Rescue, but much of the rest tends to blur together. It's fine but not outstanding.
The Go-Betweens
3/5
It's a bland and slightly dull cross between Paul Westerberg's solo work and Hoodoo Gurus. It's all pleasant and polished, but doesn't really hook me.
Goldie
2/5
I was definitely looking forward to this one being over. It is LONG. And the music is interesting when you're just dissecting the various pieces and layers; there is a lot going on. However, the music is like jazz electronica, it's all over the place and as a listener there is no groove or easy rhythm to attach to. It's actually stressful to listen to. Not my cup of tea.
Deerhunter
3/5
Completely fine. Seems like a soft, polite Arcade Fire. A little experimental and ethereal at times, but not so much so that it disengages the listener. Desire Lines and Don't Cry were the strongest tracks for me. A lot of other items kind of blended together through a couple of listens.
David Ackles
2/5
Wow. Part William Shatner, part Neil Diamond. A lot of loud talking over showtune/broadway music. He does better in the singing parts; everything is very literate... broadway-oriented story or message based. Nothing very melodic such that you'd sing along with it. So, interesting, a bit moody, a bit quirky. But won't need to listen to it again.
Brian Eno
4/5
Was surprised. It's definitely got an experimental electronica vibe, but it's never too experimental to lose sight of also being entertaining. I like Backwater the most, but even subtle pieces like Energy Fools and Here He Comes work really well. Both interesting and enjoyable.
Fela Kuti
3/5
Engaging. It took a few listens, but i'm onboard with the afro-beat vibe. The historical notes on the influence of Zombie are particularly interesting. Definitely worth listening to.
N.E.R.D
2/5
The music is pretty good, but I find the singing is more of a distraction than a benefit. The singing seems out of tune and almost unrelated to the music... a feeling that just because you're trying to sing smoothly, that it's going to be enjoyable. Maybe seems to be the best and everything else is a step or two below it. Was happy to have this over.
4/5
Conflicted on this one. The album/music itself is a master class in pumped, angry, air boxing motivational music. The production is good, when Fred tries to sing it work, when he spits anger, it's a little whiny, but it works. In addition to the problem of Fred Durst, the place where this title comes from it not just juvenile, but they still think its edgy and cool. Blink-182 gets away with the same thing (Take Off Your Pants) but are making fun of themselves with it. Entirely different dynamic. Fred doesn't earn his self-pity anger on this album, but the energy and music work if you're just singing it by yourself. Entirely engaging.
Hot Chip
3/5
Starts really strong for me... Motion Sickness is definitely my favorite on this album. There's lots of other potential here... a danceable, electronic album that has occasional daft punk shades. Unfortunately, there's nothing that catches me as much as the first track and it blends together.
The Everly Brothers
3/5
Very clean, poppy and polished. Easy to listen to and definitely an effort to catchy melodic candy tunes. I really didn't know that Love Hurts was here... crazy after growing up on the Nazareth version.
Nirvana
5/5
The most amazing of albums. Nirvana is already impressive, and this stripped down version of their songs not only is the most passionate and evocative rendition of those songs but they've chosen an amazing set of covers that introduce them in a way that is engaging in this forum. One of the strongest 5's in the book.
Emerson, Lake & Palmer
2/5
It just doesn't fit into any genre that i'm interested in listening to more. Organ noodling. Pass.
Peter Gabriel
5/5
Though this doesn't shy away from being challenging at times, the album fits well from start to finish. Biko, And Through the Wire and Games Without Frontiers stand out, but i also find the biting energy of things like Intruder as also well done. It's a great album.
Astor Piazzolla
3/5
Interesting, but not something i'd really listen to again. What sounds like a xylophone is unusual to me to be such a critical featured instrument through this entire performance. Cool and unusual for me.
The Byrds
3/5
Eight Miles High is the only standout, though tracks like 5D and Mr. Spaceman, maybe John Riley hold down some solid tracks. The rest are pretty forgettable.
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
4/5
A really strong set of carefully crafted singer/songwriter tracks that have an impressive production and variety. The songs do particularly well in that his rhymes and melody are pretty engaging and catchy. Man Out of Time, And In Every Home, The Loved Ones are my favorites.
The Mamas & The Papas
3/5
California Dreamin' and Monday, Monday are otherworldly candy-harmony pop delights. The rest of the album is pretty forgettable, but pleasant. Lots of harmonies stacked on harmonies... though a bit boring.
Nirvana
5/5
A very challenging listen but pretty much every one of the difficult songs are dripping with passion, energy, and biting lyrics. The album shows how easily they can shift between ballads and approachable tracks (pennyroyal, all apologies, rape me, heart shaped box) and their brand of energetic noise. It is impressive and moving.
U2
5/5
This is quintessential alternative. Bono's energy and passion raise many of these from songs into anthems. When Sunday Bloody Sunday and New Year's Day were first introduced, it was impossible to not be captivated. Beyond those two, the album is still filled with nearly all engaging tracks, ballads ("40"), more ethereal ("Drowning Man") and driving ("Like a Song", "Two Hearts"). Very enjoyable.
Foo Fighters
3/5
Its most amazing accomplishment is what it is and not as much the music is exceptional. A drummer from an incredibly popular band hunkers down and puts together an album entirely on his own. It's pretty straightforward rock, the first 3 songs are strong, though I also enjoyed Oh George. The rest is fine but doesn't stand out too much.
Röyksopp
4/5
It takes a few listens, but i definitely found the low key vibe and groove taking hold. So Easy and Eple are great starts and it flows very naturally from there. Evey Poor Leno, which is a strange detour works for me after a couple of listens. Definitely interested in hearing more.
The Icarus Line
3/5
Though it definitely has noisy, less approachable tracks like Spit on It and Meatmaker, there are high energy, buzzy and loud tracks that carry good energy and are engaging. Liked Spike Island, Getting Bright and Big Sleep. There's enough here that even though it can be a challenging listen, it is a worthwhile listen.
Billy Bragg
5/5
An easy 5 for me. I loved this album in college, recognizing that Billy sings either about love or left leaning causes. Though i don't necessarily align with his fervor, it well executed with melody and earnestness that makes this a very compelling album. I enjoy it and can listen to it over and over. Levi Stubbs' and New Brunette are fabulous.
Steely Dan
3/5
It is pretty unique sounding, and when they hit their groove, it is unquestionably catchy. Deacon Blues and Peg as great. However, the rest of the album struggles to hold my interest... Josie & Black Cow are okay, but the rest feel like filler that kind of drone on.
The Smiths
5/5
All hail Johnny Marr and Morrissey. A Rush and Push, Last Night I Dreamt and Unhappy Birthday are top shelf Smiths tracks. Though Girlfriend in a Coma is strangely peppy and Death At One's Elbow is an uneven inclusion, the rest of the album is perfect blend of Johnny's jangly haunting guitar and Morrissey strange and engaging lyrical content. Really love this album.
Morrissey
5/5
If an album could qualify for 5 stars on a single song, Speedway is it. It is quintessential Morrissey... dramatic pauses, biting lyrics, a loud orchestral sound, passion. One of my favorite songs of all time. Spring-Heeled Jim and Why Don't You Find Out For Yourself capture a similar passion that really elevate this album. Though I can pass on Billy Budd, everything else here are nice variations of the Morrissey formula and really are a nice continuation of what he was doing with the Smiths. Great.
Derek & The Dominos
4/5
Very surprised by this. Song after song are impressive. Nearly everything is great, though Little Wing stands out for me as well as the two opening tracks. This seems pretty timeless. The only knock i would say is that far too many of these track overstay their welcome... even 7 minutes of Layla is too much.
R.E.M.
4/5
R.E.M. is one of my favorite bands though these my commercial aimed songs like Pop Song 89 and Stand push me away a bit. World Leader Pretend, Orange Crush, Turn You Inside-Out and You are the Everything are the strong songs on this album that i think fondly about. Much more introspective, with either the thoughtful tone of World Leader or the more aggressive energy of Orange Crush... both are done so well. Thoroughly enjoy this album, but the pop market aimed songs here don't age so well.
Pink Floyd
3/5
I'm offering credit here as this is a very interesting genesis of Pink Floyd and the Syd Barrett influence. At this time, it is a curiosity... as this psychedelic sound is dated and songs like Bike the Gnome are just odd. Enjoyed Astronomy Domine the most. Pretty fascinating album.
Ray Price
3/5
Croony honky tonk. It is all polished, with a warm string/fiddle sound. The music is approachable and pretty low key honky tonk. The main issue is not that the sound is a bit dated, but the subject matter is too focused on 50's-era gender roles, and i don't know what to say about "Sittin' and Thinkin'". He was drunk, abused his wife/girlfriend, which has happened before, but we're supposed to feel okay that he says even though he thinks it will happen again, it won't be for a while. Not sure how this was even okay back then.
Neil Young
4/5
Introspective, wistful, patient at times, definitely a pretty compelling album. Though the energy turns up on Southern Man, the album is pretty intimate with Neil's unique voice telling a story. Very engaging.
Pet Shop Boys
4/5
A very approachable enjoyable electronically dancy pop album. Though songs like Can You Forgive Her and Go West really stand out, the rest of the album is strong, just not really catchy enough to be hits.
Primal Scream
3/5
Much more interesting then i expected. Burning Wheel starts with a more traditional alt rock sound, but afterwards there's a lot more driving groove and vibe-oriented segments/tracks. Get Duffy is pretty low key, but they ramp up with songs like Stuka and Motorheard (though I think the lower key ones are better). An interesting listen.
Jeru The Damaja
2/5
It's one thing to be a misogynist, but to be one that declares, "hey!, I'm not a misogynist" while demonstrating that he's a misogynist. the rest plays like a mediocre east coast Ice-T, though i did like "Ain't the Devil Happy".
Beastie Boys
3/5
A pretty impressive treasure trove of sampling and production. Very polished and innovative. It is the signature Beastie style, strong lyrics and witty rhymes. I did like the heavier "Looking Down the Barrel of a Gun" the most, but I get a bit tired of their nasally voicing.
Queen Latifah
2/5
This is not the mix of rap and hip-hop that i like. The hip-hop muddy electronic beatbox sounds very late 80's, is distracting, and takes a layer of seriousness out of the lyrics. This is particularly evident on Evil That Men Do, that could really be a lot more serious sounding and hard. I will give a nod to The Pros, but nearly everything else is too muddy processed beats.
Cocteau Twins
4/5
Really surprised this... certainly didn't realize that most of this was vocalizing instead of understandable lyrics. The sound is pretty unique and evocative. It has a haunting ethereal quality that is very cool. Greatly enjoyed.
Liz Phair
5/5
Honest, stripped down and raw at times. Really enjoy Liz Phair's delivery and there's enough mix of pretty basic arrangements with some more melodic/driven alt rock songs. A great set.
Turbonegro
3/5
A bit fun and strange approach to pop-punk-rock. The titles/lyrics are certainly more of the tongue-in-cheek/Spinal Tap vein. The songs are pretty straightforward, but don't particularly stand out. Get It On and Prince of the Rodeo were probably my favorites. A fine listen.
Marilyn Manson
3/5
Certainly succeeds with its dark vibe, angry, moody, and aggressive. Though nothing is as catchy as Beautiful People, there are plenty of songs that have a cathartic anger (e.g. The Reflecting God, Tourniquet) that align well here. I can appreciate the style.
Otis Redding
4/5
Pretty stellar soulful blues collection. Essentially every song is recognizable and i had not heard his covers of Wonderful World and Satisfaction before. I absolutely love Change Gonna Come. Great album.
Mj Cole
2/5
There are moments that this finds its groove for me and the electronic vibe works. The lighter touch of the first half of the introduction is a good example. Tired Games and Attitude also have their moments, but i feel like it's got some electronic jazzy rap that begins with Bandelero and pollutes most of the rest of the tracks. This quickly becomes irritating and given that the album is pretty drawn out... i was happy when it was over.
Alice Cooper
4/5
Makes you miss straight ahead rock and roll. With certainly No More Mr. Nice Guy, Hello Hooray and Elected, there is easily approachable, a little sneery, and good tough rock and roll. I didn't really realize before how much there's a Who/Roger Daltrey vibe in a bit of Alice Cooper's delivery. Though it falters into a bit of weirdness at the end, this is really enjoyable.
Venom
3/5
Though it sounds a bit like a low fidelity cassette tape, this was a lot more approachable than i expected. Pretty straight forward hard rock with a more metal slanting lead singer delivery. Countess Bathory and Black Metal stood out for me.
Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band
2/5
Almost 300 days late.... really wanted to have time with this. Read a bunch of the back story and denoting that this is one of the most challenging records. A lot of it is pretty weird, and makes me think of some crazy art students on a weekend project, but then there are some doozies.... Hobo Chang Ba comes to mind. I can imagine this best as a sound recording of some live stage production performance art performed by nutters. The strange dialog and music seems like there must be people on stage under psychedelic lights popping out of shadows, flailing uncontrollably. The music does drift into many places where i you wonder how you can tell anything is being played incorrectly (even though the history of the album seems to indicate and inordinate amount of practice to craft this piece). I'll give it a little bonus because if definitely challenges assumptions and makes you think differently about what music is.
Terence Trent D'Arby
5/5
I loved this album when it was first released. His soulful voice and catchy melodies... nearly everything is perfect here (though Dance Little Sister and As Yet Untitled are kind of duds to me). An incredible release. What I remember most about this album is how bad the follow-up was. Terence Trent D'Arby is my vote for the artist that fell the furthest from Album #1 to Album #2. Still an amazing release.
Haircut 100
2/5
This one wore on me quickly. Love Plus One is a great song from the era, but nearly everything else has the annoying fast strumming light guitars with some 80's funky beats that is not only dated but annoying. Snow Girl seemed to be the only song with some hope, but everything else is dreck.
Talk Talk
4/5
I enjoyed Talk Talk back in the day and was a big fan of the It's My Life album. Was surprised that this follow-up to that was really good though i had never listened to it. Maybe the issue is that really isn't a big hit on the album though overall its a very solid soulful brooding cerebral vibe. A worthy listen.
Saint Etienne
3/5
Unfortunately pretty boring. It starts off with Only Love Can Break Your Heart which is a banger. The vibe/sound is great... good soft electronic dance with a cool echoy ethereal voice... they just need better music. Stoned To Say the Least also kind of gets there, but there's not enough else to push it higher.
Flamin' Groovies
3/5
The blues-rock guitar work is really awesome. Unfortunately the vocalist does more to detract than elevate the music. Whiskey Woman is really strong, but there aren't enough songs like that to push this album higher. It's interesting and enjoyable.
Gene Clark
4/5
It certainly has a singer/songwriter timelessness about it. It is very easy to listen to... a simpler Eagles vibe (with a lot less harmonies). Every song here is enjoyable, though blends a bit together by the time we've reached the end. A cool discovery for me.
Leonard Cohen
3/5
This is more of a spoken word with music that is hard to distinguish from each other. The Partisan and Story of Isaac are most interesting to me, but I feel like Simon & Garfunkel and Bob Dylan are two different better takes on the same song-writer focused content.
Dagmar Krause
1/5
It sounds like it should be the soundtrack to an accordion-oriented play. It isn't particularly challenging sonically (single voice over an orchestral arrangement), it just isn't something that is particularly fun or enjoyable to listen to. Quite tiring.
Buddy Holly & The Crickets
3/5
A clean crisp set of tracks are generally pretty strong. They seem pretty straightforward, and though i learned here that Not Fade Away is a Buddy Holly original, the songs here are fine, but nothing that i love. Solid.
Def Leppard
5/5
I absolutely love this album. Maybe Stagefright is a little weak, but otherwise this album is an amazing hard rock masterpiece with pop sensabilities. I enjoy the darker broody pieces most (Billy's Got a Gun, Too Late for Love), but it is such an enjoyable full listen.
Fiona Apple
3/5
A bit of a challenging listen. It makes me think of spoken poetry with a soundtrack more than a collection of songs. It still occassionally finds a vibe with me (2nd half of ladies, cosmonauts), but overall a bit too much kitchen sink collections of ideas and eclectic production.
Fleetwood Mac
4/5
What an interesting band. Mick Fleetwood and John McVie are the namesakes of the band, have the only continuity across the various incarnations of the band... but essentially bring in 3 songwriters to write and (mostly) individually sing 20 songs for an album. It's a really cool departure from Rumors, a lot more experimental, and definitely not uniform... each of the 3 song writers really has their own vibe. This variety helps over the course of the long album and all the songs are approachable, with quite a few standing out (Sisters of the Moon, Angel, Sara, Storms, Tusk). Very cool.
Rahul Dev Burman
3/5
Though the vocalizations and singing are a bit unusual (its a soundtrack, after all), it did have an ability to put a smile on my face. It felt fun. I liked the spaghetti western vibe of Countess' Caper and the orchestral theme types pieces were also easy to enjoy. Enjoyed more than I expected.
Frankie Goes To Hollywood
3/5
An interesting experiment. Though there are a few clear standouts, the variety of other choices: covers of San Jose and Born to Run, downtempo pieces like Ballad of 32, and some fine electronic pop, offset other quirky uninteresting contributions. Overall a positive energy record that works.
Ali Farka Touré
4/5
This is really really cool. Subtle and intricate, the vibe just kind of sweeps you away. Though i can't understand any of the language, the nice part for me is that it doesn't overpower or get too emphasized to take away from the instrumentation. Thoroughly enjoyed.
Roni Size
1/5
I can't even count the ways that I don't like Drum N' Bass. Simply "all of them". The frenetic jazzy artificial beats with some occasional weird voiceovers. Entirely unnecessary and i seriously can't imagine a mood or a time when this is what you would want to put on.... it isn't danceable, it's not good for relaxing, unless you know the twists and turns of the music it is just jarring and unpleasant. Just why?
William Orbit
5/5
I guess this is my jam. Never heard this before, but this is the kind of music that just fits a perfect night of thinking or working or chilling. An ambient, trancey vibe that doesn't stick itself out to far, but are all smooth and cool.
Pet Shop Boys
4/5
Solid, consistent, enjoyable. Most of the tracks have their synth electronic poppy sound which does find some pretty catchy hooks. It's a Sin and What Have I Done to Deserve This stand out, though songs like Heart, Shopping and Hit Music are also good. The synth sound is pretty heavy, making this a bit dated, but still good.
Herbie Hancock
2/5
Chameleon and Watermelon Man are a good intro... it's interesting and pretty approachable. A funky junky that finds a cool groove. Unfortunately with Sly it falls apart for me... it's grating and stressful. Though it closes in a more mellow mood, the overall experience was a bit sour.
Bob Dylan
4/5
This really showcases what an amazing lyricist and songwriter he is. Not only is there an emphasis on interesting storytelling, the accompanying music is catchy and engaging. To me, only Gates of Eden was a bit boring, but the rest are really strong. I was way more impressed by the songs i've never heard before than hearing Mr. Tamborine Man again.
Shuggie Otis
3/5
A smooth, soulful understated funk that definitely gives off the 70's vibe. Has a very Casio keyboard thing going on. Pretty innocuous, but also not much that stands out... the lead track Inspiration Information is good.
Merle Haggard
3/5
Smooth easy listening cowboy country. Simple tunes, pretty melodic, short, merle's voice is very clean. All around pleasant in the style.
The Replacements
4/5
Raw and angsty. Quite messy, but the variety keeps it engaging and interesting. Tracks like I Will Dare, Androgynous and Unsatisfied definitely rise a step above the rest with a bit more of a poignant and honest message. Why am i not surprised that Ted Nugent's contribution is Gary's Got a Boner.
The Cure
5/5
Even though the album has only 2 traditional banger tunes on it (A Forest and Play for Today), this is the moody, dark, meloncholic, vibe that is exceptionally done here. It seems a pretty basic layered drum, bass, guitar riff that has a drive and vibe that is dark and moody. I feel that though it predominantly doesn't have a melodic hook, the groove is what carries it forward and keeps you engaged. I could listen to this over and over. Excellent.
Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band
3/5
It seems like there are 3 different flavors here... the more straightahead blues rock showcased by Sure Nuff and Zig Zag Wandered. I find these the most successful, and the more Beefheart starts experimenting (Dropout Boogie, Electricity, Abba Zaba), its comes off as a bit weird. The third flavor is psychedelia... I thought i was listening to Piper at the Gates of Dawn when Autumn's Child spun up. Interesting.
Metallica
5/5
A little bit of a tough one in that this is essentially a Metallica greatest hits double album. The only thing that could warrant putting on this list is the fact that a metal band reimagined and created an arrangement that uses a symphony orchestra. A completely fascinating idea and one that they absolutely CRUSH. the sound is so full, rich and heavy. amazing album (though i started to get a bit tired after 2+ hours).
Stan Getz
4/5
Though I don't understand most of the album, the smooth latin jazzy vibe is just so cool. You feel cool while listening to it. The breathy soft sax works with the light latin beats. Greatly enjoyed.
ZZ Top
4/5
Straight ahead blues rock. Very easy to approach and enjoy. La Grange is an all time classic that defines "hitting a groove". Beer Drinkers and Hot Blue and Righteous stand out for me. Excellent.
Paul Simon
3/5
They are all kind of interesting singer-songwriter pieces that represent the Paul Simon sound. The lyrics are intentional and very introspective. It is polished and well produced. But this set really lacks hooks. I like Hearts and Bones and Songs About the Moon the most, the rest of solid but not exceptional.
Jamiroquai
3/5
It sounds like a soundtrack to a 1970's TV Cop show. It's pleasant... jazz funk R&B that though crafted in the 90's, definitely feels like a throwback. Though i don't find anything as catchy as what they put out later (Virtual Insanity), it is fine for the genre.
The Undertones
4/5
I enjoyed the quirky punk pop. The Undertones have a little Jello Biafra/Dead Kennedys sound with a bit cleaner poppier tone. Though Allmusic calls Under the Boardwalk a misstep, I really enjoyed this cover. Definitely a different fun energy. Overall enjoyable listen.
Hanoi Rocks
3/5
Serviceable rock. Malibu Beach Nightmare is fine, though Tooting Bec Wreck and Until I Get You are highest on my list. I poppy rock style, a la Poison, but without much of the catchiness.
Todd Rundgren
1/5
The struggle is real. Most of the album, i was simply flip flopping between whether this was detestable or simply unlistenable. Though the start isn't too bad, it quickly devolves into psychedelic experimental mumbo jumbo with rough and uneven vocalizations. Though there's a glimmer of hope on the second side that we're stabilizing, there's enough that slides back into eclectic experimentation that it feels like PTSD from the first side. This grates on me more quickly than it normally would.
White Denim
3/5
Varied and interesting rock, blues, boogie... with a alternative vibe that makes it anything but 3 chord straight rock. Street Joy and Is and Is and Is stood out for me, but much of the rest of the album was fine without being too engaging.
Portishead
3/5
A pretty cool and unique vibe. A understated haunting broody electronic beat with a cool siren of a voice. Sour Times stands pretty far above everything else... the rest maintains the vibe, but everything is samesy enough that the album probably serves best as background music.
The Dictators
4/5
Surprisingly early punk sound, mixing a bit of punk and surf guitar. Songs are pretty straightforward, raucous and fun. I feel like the guitar work is what sets this above the standard rhythm guitar heavy punk work... the guitar flourishes and riffs that are peppered through keep it engaging.
Talking Heads
4/5
Took me several cycles through it to appreciate the energy and vibe. It is a bit challenging as it is certainly not standard pop melodies, but with David Byrne's staccato singing style on top of quirky driving beats and some eccentric flourishes. The more i listen to it, the more i appreciated it.
Kendrick Lamar
4/5
Though i don't love Kendrick's style and delivery, this album is a testament to his vision and creativity. The lyrical richness definitely paints a Compton experience that is pretty impressive. The album hits it stride with Good Kid, MAAD City and Drank. A compelling album.
2/5
This seems like a pretty obvious shift in perspective, but i don't think i consciously thought this is more of an "art piece" than "music". This is non-traditional and i don't know any who would have bought this album and just gets in a mood to listen to this music. However, if you think of this as a movie, or piece of art, you can "experience" it... and at that point you can better accept it's noisy and unsettling delivery. It is still hard to appreciate the overall work if i engage it with a musical hat on... a very challenging listen. Still, i will grant a second star because of how it has changed my perspective on having to engage actively with an album as a piece of art.
Grizzly Bear
3/5
This style definitely fits in my wheelhouse... an indie-folk-alternative vibe. However, i didn't find much that was actually that catchy... two weeks is the best, but more of the rest is just okay, a little boring at times.
Tricky
3/5
A bit interesting. Spacey, dark, broody, understated. The vocalizations/rap are a bit of a distraction (i don't think they improve the music as Portishead does a better job here). Still was cool to listen to, but it does kind of blend altogether.
Steely Dan
3/5
Certainly sounds like Steely Dan with their funky jazzy soft rock delivery. It is all pretty interesting, but only My Old School really resonates. When they hit a banger, it is fabulous. Though there is really a pretty big variety to the music, there's not as much of a melodic hook... Pearl of the Quarter maybe a little, but overall, the album is an interesting listen more than really enjoyable.
The Blue Nile
3/5
Seems like an adult-contemporary synth-pop without any meaningful melodic hooks... it kind of just ambles and drifts all over the place. Pleasant, but unremarkable. Tinseltown is the strongest.
Erykah Badu
3/5
Soulful and smooth. Easy to listen to and enjoy... the music successfully delivers a consistent R&B groove. Not anything i really love on this album, but there's nothing that's really offputting either. Fine.
Alice Cooper
2/5
Much less interesting or exciting than i expected. Grande Finale and Blue Turk are the most straightforward and seem fine... the rest of the album is not the classic rock i was hoping for... it seemed like a lot of misses.
Stephen Stills
4/5
It's probably rounding up a wee bit, but there's enough solid rock, bluegrass, folk on this to easily appreciate. the slide guitar and the harmonies are spot on and the variety keeps it interesting (though it occasionally is a little corny when a bluegrass intro spins up). overall enjoyable.
Meat Puppets
3/5
Not having heard this before, what is most striking is how good Nirvana's covers of the three songs on this album. Kurt takes what is delivered here as a 5 or 6 and makes it a 10. It does highlight the weakness that the lead singer has a relatively uninteresting tone and delivery. An ordinary conversation. With that said, the music is very interesting and intricate. The instrumental pieces are some of the best (Aurora and Idiot), though the Whistling Song is also strong.
Death In Vegas
5/5
Surprisingly awesome. Dirty, grimey, electronic fat throbbing beats. The lyrics get in the way more than they help the songs, but they are pretty sparse, so are only a minor distraction. Absolutely loved this vibe.
Deee-Lite
3/5
Though overplayed, there is no doubt that Groove is in the Heart is a monstrous banger. I could not stop myself from dancing as soon as that beat popped on. What is Love is a big step down but is the next best track and a catchy dirty beat. A fine pop album, but a lot of filler for me.
Jack White
4/5
Great energy, feels carefully crafted, well produced. The bluesy-rock is aggressive and his vocal delivery seems easy to engage. Really strong, enjoyable.
Amy Winehouse
3/5
Clean, easy to enjoy soulful jazz lounge vibe. Amy's got a great emotive voice. The songs didn't feel like there was much to distinguish them apart and nothing particularly catchy here, but overall it was fine.
Siouxsie And The Banshees
3/5
The dark brooding music and delivery are interesting, though there's not enough banger songs here to really elevate the experience. I liked Arabian Knights and Night Shift the most, though much of the rest seems ordinary.
Afrika Bambaataa
1/5
Ok, it's a little harsh, but i really can't listen to this music. It feel like poor vintage Run-DMC sing songy echoy raps combined with casio keyboard quality electronic beats. I did freak out not knowing that Renegades of Funk came from here (i swear by the RATM version of it), but the delivery is such a travesty here, no bonus stars are awarded. Heavy pass.
Richard Thompson
4/5
It took a few listens, as it seems to get a bit more interesting and the songs do a bit more to differentiate themselves (at first, i would have said it was boring and just all blends together). It is definitely tavern-oriented storytelling folk music, with songs like Bright Lights, Drunkards, End of the Rainbow standing out for me, with several other songs being really strong. Little Beggar Girl is the only song i skip.
Hookworms
4/5
Its the electronic driving vibe that's a little dark and ambient that really works for me. Enjoyed.
Fairport Convention
3/5
Thought this was going to be easy to dismiss, but it is actually a really pretty strong english tavern folk album that is pretty engaging. Really like Come All Ye and the first part of Matty Groves. Tam Lin sounds like the inspiration for Aqualung by Jetho Tull. Pretty interesting overall.
Johnny Cash
3/5
I think you know what you're getting with Johnny Cash. The Man Comes Around and Hurt are stellar. It is interesting to see his takes on other track (e.g. Bridge, Desperado).... though not all are successful. Personal Jesus definitely seems like a mistake. Overall, enjoyable to listen to.
Common
3/5
A lot of this isn't really my jam, but you can tell it is "crafted". There's intention and layered with a soulful hiphop R&B vibe. The rating is mostly for giving credit on the artistic output though i don't expect to listen to this much.
Faust
3/5
Kind of interesting in the way i'm okay being challenged, though the more lyrics in the music, the more quirky it gets... which isn't always a fit. Enough interesting things here to give it some credit, though I don't expect i'll end up revisiting this.
Neil Young
4/5
The first few songs are fine, but it takes Revolution Blues to turn the corner for me. It is still the Neil Young slow-tempo folks-rock-blues, but it is entirely earnest and melancholy that does a good job of engaging the listener. Enjoyed.
John Lennon
5/5
Brutally honest and sparse. It sounds personal and pained. An excellent emotional album that is compelling start to finish.
Todd Rundgren
2/5
Certainly more tolerable than our last Todd Rundgren space exploration album. I Saw the Light and Hello It's Me are officially good, but so much of the rest just sounds like filler with the occasional quirky song that tends to be less so. Given the slog it is to get through a double album of this, it takes a star penalty for not having enough to come back for.
Ms. Dynamite
3/5
Immediately struck me as sounding a lot like P!nk in the Mizundastood era. Unfortunately there's nothing nearly as catchy as those from the P!nk album. Still the songs are pretty smooth pop R&B with a bit of reggae thrown in on occasion. Interesting to listen to.
M.I.A.
2/5
More interesting than enjoyable. There's not really a song on it that you want to replay / repeat. Nothing really too challenging, but I didn't enjoy it either.
Marvin Gaye
2/5
Let's razzmatazz and all that jazz. Crikey. This is way too hippie space cadet. Marvin Gaye has some classics but they aren't here.
LL Cool J
2/5
The cheesy 80's rap beats with sexism and braggadocio don't age well.
Sonic Youth
2/5
I want to say i "get" sonic youth, that i like this slightly challenging music. i don't. i do like the noisy aggressive and interesting music, but the ineffectual talky/singy vocals that seem pretty unmelodic mixed with music that doesn't either find a driving groove or has some engaging hook doesn't entirely add up for me.
The Undertones
4/5
Just solid. The vintage punk feel with strong pop sensabilities. Nearly every song is pretty approachable and easy to enjoy (maybe Wrong Way is the one song i would skip). Impressive and fun.
Marty Robbins
4/5
Pretty surprisingly fun. This is some vintage cowboy songs... some pretty johnny cash-like themes, but all in pop-old-country sounds with some actually pretty cool spanish-guitar flourishes through the songs. Marty is a squeaky clean sounding that makes it very easy to listen to and enjoy.
Genesis
4/5
Complex, crafted and dramatic. Though it certainly is a bit long, there's enough challenge and creativity that keeps the listener engaged. Really enjoyed.
Sonic Youth
2/5
Though there are some interesting noisy droning guitar driven pieces that work for me, there is a bit too much boring unmelodic noise and weirdness to warrant repeat listens.
Missy Elliott
4/5
Totally surprised by this. It was much more interesting and approachable than i expected. It has that hip-hop, R&B, rap vibe, but Missy Elliott solidly delivers an edge/sassy tone, without being obnoxious or shocking (coming much later with WAP-oriented artists). This is really interesting and engaging.
Gram Parsons
2/5
Just a bit too boring and uninteresting. It not difficult to listen too, and slightly unmelodic at times, but the track themselves, for what they are... country-folk, tend to blend together with nothing that really stands out as being enjoyable.
Frank Sinatra
4/5
I think we all know what we get with Frank Sinatra. This set is no different, but definitely keeps a core jazzy-hip vibe that lends itself to a feeling of cool if you let it take over. Enjoyed.
Simple Minds
5/5
An absolutely fantastic album for New Wave alternative. 3 absolutely undeniably great and catchy songs, and the rest exude a kind of haunting electronic beat that makes it a great listen.
Paul McCartney
3/5
Maybe I'm Amazed is an all time great. Unfortunately, the rest of the album seems like a Beatle that is experimenting but doesn't have other enough confrontation or guidance to deliver consistent greatness. It is interesting, quirky and experimental at times... but Maybe I'm Amazed is the only track that is great. Still interesting.
Stevie Wonder
4/5
There's a few standouts early (Zillion Light Years, Boogie, and They Won't Go), but as I listened to it several times, the groove and energy is soulful and enjoyable. I was only familiar with the George Michael version of They Won't Go, so was pretty stunned that this is where it came from... a pretty dark and quiet turn on the album, but amazing.
Sleater-Kinney
4/5
Damn. Dig me Out, title track and the first song... i just don't like it. Just skip. Then, the rest of the album opens up, a bit more groove and the raw singing works... it's raucous and energetic. Liked every track but the first one.
Pere Ubu
3/5
More interesting than awesome. There are some bits that are engaging alternative rock with a challenging edge, but there's also enough experimentation that doesn't work.
The Charlatans
4/5
Solid brit-pop/rock, reminds me entirely of Oasis. Plenty of strong tracks, though North County Boy is probably the only one i would think is hit worthy. A couple of weird and instrumental pieces hold it back a little, but otherwise enjoyable.
Suzanne Vega
3/5
It is really a stripped down singer-songwriter vibe, with the occasional talky delivery which doesn't work too well. I think Undertow is my favorite... Marlene and Small Blue Thing are fine, but don't have the catchiness of songs on her later releases, like Luka and Tom's Diner. Overall, it's a bit boring, but generally inoffensive.
Jimmy Smith
5/5
No clue how it could be any better. It's got smooth groove, easy to listen to and enjoy. Definitely a very approachable jazz... that makes you just feel cooler by listening to it. Could definitely have this on repeat.
Megadeth
3/5
Hard and fast, and Dave Mustaine's voice does work for me. Unfortunately, the songs are generally just OK... Hangar 18 and Tornado of Souls are the only tracks that stand out.. .though I also like the speed of Poison Was the Cure.
Tim Buckley
2/5
It's what happens when Mickey Dolenz from the Monkees gets pretentious, psychedelic and far too serious for his own good. Tim hits some fine spots with No Man Can Find the War, Pleasant Street and Once I Was, but enough tracks spiral out of control (I'm looking at you Goodbye and Hello) that it stays dated and overall not my cup of tea.
Echo And The Bunnymen
4/5
Solid offering top to bottom... i think Gods Will be Gods is the only skippable one, but the rest keep a general melancholy/haunting vibe, with tracks like Porcupine, Back of Love and the Cutter truly being exceptional. Definitely enjoyable.
The Residents
1/5
If you need a palate cleanser after listening to a couple of Taylor Swift songs, this should force a complete reset of your system. A very challenging listen... non-sensical lyrics, and carnival like random musical elements. I'm going to give 1 star to the combination of 1) the instrumental which was by far the most listenable piece, 2) the new standard it has set in my brain for what qualifies as lyrics, and 3) the bad ass cover art and album title.
Solomon Burke
4/5
Just good. The soulful crooning over some decently melodic and catchy songs. Though i don't think there is anything that i'd want to play on repeat, there isn't anything to skip here either. All strong.
Cee Lo Green
3/5
Polished, funky and soulful. There are lots of tracks that are high energy, fun and enjoyable. Though there's just a few too many that are a bit experimental or too much rapping/talking that pulls it back as the vibe is going (I Am Selling Soul, Evening News, Glockapella, Sometimes). Definitely pieces to really like, but uneven for me.
Thin Lizzy
4/5
Though it is likely the Jameson I was drinking at the time, the tracks are engaging, energetic and easy to enjoy. Though the sound is a little hollow, it sounds really good for a live album and certainly covers lots of hits. I'm going to ignore Johnny the Fox, and give it a ....
SZA
3/5
Strong album and easily approachable. Smooth, well polished, soft hip-hop, rap vibe with soul. Really liked Drew Barrymore and Normal Girl. Nothing is really catch enough to want to listen to over and over, but all pretty decent.
David Crosby
3/5
Definitely letting the hippie flag fly. Generously innocuous, though it seems to think that because you have some acoustic spacey noodling and lots of echo-y voices, it must be good. Cowboy Movie was probably my favorite, getting a more directed energy and aggressive vibe.
Minor Threat
3/5
I love the rawness and energy. I could definitely align more closely with it if i had the same angst and wanted to rage in the same way. Still, i enjoyed the sound, particularly as it was more interesting than most early punk.
The Young Rascals
4/5
Pretty polished clean late 60's pop... plenty of choruses and simple guitar/horns work. The tunes are pretty simple and melodic. My notes of interest... it seemed like somebody just discovered stereo in mixing this album (Find Somebody)... hard cuts from left to right and back left. Nothing natural about them showing what stereo could do. Also, I Don't Love You Anymore is painful... they just sound like wounded dogs trying to sing some of these melodies. I like the rest of the album, so i'm going to pretend they didn't include this track. Also love to discover that this is where Pat Benatar's cover comes from.
Pearl Jam
5/5
An easy 5 for me. Not only are there the absolute bangers like Even Flow, Black, Garden, and Jeremy, but the rest of the album is a pretty surprising diverse set of passionate songs. Pearl Jam sounds great whether delivering higher energy songs like Porch or slower tempo like Black. An amazing album.
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan
2/5
This is too much to try to learn to appreciate in a short period of time. It unfortunately all sounds the same and has an irritating quality.
Dexys Midnight Runners
3/5
It's fine. The introspective talking doesn't work for me, but the songs themselves are have a mellow, sincere vibe that is okay. One of Those Things is weird to me as i can only hear a Bob Seger riff on repeat which in this context makes me want to move to the next song. Generally inoffensive.
The Smashing Pumpkins
4/5
Wow. 2 hours. I would wager if i discovered this back in the day, i would have been able to give each track significant time to get under my skin. So both the easy to approach and more challenging/noisy tracks would have the same positive reaction. I do respect the energy and angst that drives many of the tracks and come away with a positive experience. Outside of the obvious bangers, it seems a repeating set of flavors but all good alternative.
2/5
Though no question that the title track is raw, energetic and compelling. However, much of the rest of this is the overdone, overblown, fuzzy-sounding, hard hippie rock from this time period. Songs like starship are exhausting to listen to.
The Stranglers
4/5
The seems really strong and original. It's a little punky, very English, and is interestingly layered and assembled so that it seems more complex than others in this genre. I really like the darker London Lady and Princess of the Streets. Very enjoyable listen.
Cowboy Junkies
3/5
This is a carousel in slow motion. It doesn't take long to realize you are going nowhere. The music comes across as very similar, same vocal delivery, same slow playing. A single song of it might be soulful and interesting, but an album of it feels long quickly. It isn't officially bad, just a bit boring.
Lloyd Cole And The Commotions
2/5
This one is strange, it has a talky vibe with a bit alternative that reminds me of The The. Strangely, i love The The, but this rubs me the wrong way... it feels/sounds pretentious. The music itself is fine, but the vocal delivery is like a sand wedgie.
American Music Club
3/5
Certainly nothing special, but inoffensive. Makes me think of what music AI would generate if they wanted background music for a Friends-like show where folks were 20 years older and their favorite style was "adult contemporary". Boring. Don't love the lead singer's voice.
LCD Soundsystem
3/5
Music and lyrics are interesting, but the vocals don't quite hit for me. They are pretty flat and non-melodic, which extends frequently to the chorus as well. This works a bit better for bands like the Strokes, but here I don't really get into it. Overall it is decent in smaller doses, but I'm tired of the voice by the end of the hour.
Youssou N'Dour
4/5
Pitche Mi is exceptional. I love the jazzy world music with layers that really show interesting work across multiple instruments. The other tracks carry the same vibe and are enjoyable, but i can listen to Pitche Mi on repeat.
TV On The Radio
3/5
It's 30-40% too experimental for me. Starting at the Sun, Dreams, Don't Love You really work for me. The vibe is good, but the vocalizations on a delicate line between being too falsetto and alternative-falsetto that plays well. Several songs don't really go anywhere (Poppy) and there's a few that are a bit too experimental for me. Interesting.
Wild Beasts
4/5
Really surprised by this. After listening to the first few minutes, I was pretty certain i was giving this a 2, as the falsetto voice was an instant turnoff. However after starting the albums a few times, the voice started clicking for me as an interesting dramatic element over the music. The music is really good, that finds a good groove and has an ethereal quality at times. I could definitely see enjoying this more as you get more familiar with it. A surprise!
The Byrds
3/5
Though it does have a couple of standout hits, the album is a bit dated sounding and ho hum throughout much of the album. CTA-102 stands out as being bad, but the rest are fine.
Morrissey
5/5
Yeah, I know Morrissey is kind of a twat. At some level, I'm probably some apologist, but for the most part I try to ignore the current Morrissey and instead embrace the Morrissey I knew at this time where he was focused on the spit and venom of Irish Blood, English Heart as well as some of the most beautiful songs ever in Come Back to Camden and Crashing Bores. The album is passionate and real. One of my favorites.
The KLF
3/5
I like the general vibe of smooth electronic beats, but it doesn't do enough for me. The lyrical content doesn't really lift it up enough even though it is very polished. An interesting listen, but certainly blends together.
Bad Company
5/5
Straight forward, clean, melodic rock. The album is strong from start to finish, with several absolute bangers in there. Couldn't ask much more from a rock record. Paul Rodgers has such a great voice for this style. Loved it.
The Specials
4/5
I'm giving SKA an extra bump as I really enjoy the vibe and the sound. Though there are some weaker tracks, there's enough meat here (Rudy, Concrete Jungle, Nite Klub, Too Hot) that its a really fun journey. Good times!
The Flying Burrito Brothers
3/5
I'm going to ignore Hippie Boy... we'll give them a track that we won't penalize them for. Other than that, the album is a pretty straightforward late 60's sounding western-rock record with pop sensibilities. The best songs are borrowed, Dark End and Do Right Woman, but otherwise pretty innocuous. All is fine.
Pink Floyd
5/5
Epic. Quintessential. OG. One of the most interesting and amazing albums of all time. Still holds up today.
Justin Timberlake
2/5
Cry Me a River and Rock Your Body are good. Unfortunately the rest is a pretty rough listen for me. It is all saccharine sweet waify boy singing. I know Justin Timberlake is cool now, but this is not even interesting, just a lot of samey singing over somewhat connected electronic beats.
The Birthday Party
3/5
Pretty interesting. Never knew the Nick Cave origin story until coming across this. Its a tortured sleezy aggressive Nick Cave that is pretty challenging. Several Sins stands out the most for me, though I also liked Kewpie Doll and the craziness of Hamlet. Engaging enough to appreciate.
Soft Machine
1/5
This is about as bad as it gets. Not only is it that experimental instrument noodling, but the dated nature of it locks all the instrumentation into horrible organ or weird 60's electronic noises. Glad when it was over.
Hüsker Dü
4/5
Really love the great collection of garage alternative punk nuggets on this album. Though a bunch of tracks fall into a samey trap, there are enough really strong tracks that helps carry the double album. I tend to like the darker sounding ones and enjoy Bob Mould's delivery. She Floated Away, Bed of Nails, These Important Years, It's Not Peculiar are among my favorites.
Tom Waits
3/5
I find this to be a pretty interesting listen. Tom Waits has a club vibe, beat poet delivery on top of a pretty cool jazz section. It is word-heavy and feels like a bit of an event. Unfortunately the audience laughter and feedback sounds more like a laugh-track than just an audience recording. It is too prounounced and turns me off a bit. However, I think the overall attempt here is pretty interesting (though I don't expect to revisit it).
The Young Gods
2/5
Has a very "Du Hast" vibe, without anything being as close as entertaining as that song. French industrial is a bit tough to listen to and kind of a chore to get through. There are a few times the music gets a groove going, but the vocal delivery and foreign language makes it a bit more challenging to enjoy.
Laibach
3/5
Enjoyable for the spectacle of it. The dark brooding metal vocals mixed with industrial metal and occasional orchestral flare. Definitely cool in the thing that it is doing.
Brian Eno
4/5
Peaceful and at times ethereal. Though it tends to have a very light touch, the music undeniably adds a richness to the background. Cool for a pretty specific purpose.
Bauhaus
4/5
I'm on board with Peter Murphy's sound. I like the challenging goth alternative sound with some very engaging tracks like Hair of the Dog, Passion of Lovers and Mask. I feel like i would have really been into Bauhaus in college had I been exposed earlier.
Jah Wobble's Invaders Of The Heart
3/5
Better than i anticipated. The less Jah Wobble sings, maybe the slightly better it is... he has a talky, occasionally Robyn Hitchcock vibe that doesn't always align with the interesting mix of world and pop/rock. Visions of You is enjoyable, while the rest do start to blend together, but overall a good listen.
Christina Aguilera
3/5
A high amount of polish and Christina's voice is powerful and can be amazingly soulful. The album starts well for me (Make Me Wanna Pray), but doesn't carry it much higher than that. No songs I love or want to repeat, and its gets pretty samey after 22 songs.
U2
5/5
Stellar album, there's not a weak song in the whole list. Though tracks like One and Mysterious Ways are popular hits, slight darker vibe tracks like Acrobat and Love is Blindness are even better. The music is engaging, the Edge's guitar work is impressive in the different types of emotions it can evoke; while Bono still is one of the most convincing vocalist in translation emotion into his delivery.
Morrissey
4/5
Ignoring recent controversy with Morrissey, I'll say that I have loved The Smiths and Morrissey's solo music (Quarry being his last great one). Though Viva Hate gives us Everyday and Suedehead, the rest of the album is just interesting and pretty decent. If anything it really just showed us that Morrissey retained some exciting potential without having Johnny Marr's great guitar work. Still, good album.
Dion
3/5
Pleasant adult contemporary sound from the 70's. All very nice, but not much that is catchy enough to repeat often.
Michael Jackson
4/5
Though there are a bunch of pretty lame songs on here, the electronic beats are too prominent (dating this and making me think of Harold Faltermeyer and the Thompson Twins) and he ended up being a giant creep... there's enough pop wonderment in here that I can recognize that this was definitely better than average.
Butthole Surfers
2/5
A bit too experimental and challenging for me. Human Cannonball seems to be the most traditional song and easiest to approach. There's a few others that i can appreciate, such as Sweat Loaf, Pittsburgh to Lebanon and 22 Going on 23, but most of the rest is a bit too noisy without obvious purpose.
Scritti Politti
2/5
I didn't like Scritti Politti in '85 from what i heard on the radio. Revisiting their sound and album doesn't improve today. The 80's style electronic beats don't age well and the waifish vocals start irritating me quickly.
Joe Ely
3/5
Pretty easy and approachable folk country sound. Fingernails sounds like a bet he lost... write a song about the next thing that pops into your head. Maybe, we all lost on that one. The rest is fine, with Boxcars and West Texas Waltz being the standouts for me.
The Cult
4/5
This is great raw smokey-bar rock band swagger. High energy and old school rock band, with guitar solos and sneering vocals. Really enjoy this, though I'm deducting a star for how bad their Born to be Wild cover is.
Beyoncé
3/5
I don't really get the thrill of Beyonce. Destiny's Child crafted some magical pop songs, but Beyonce seems to deliver more attitude and less pop. This album helped me get a bit more understanding of her approach... this definitely has some Big Dick Energy... she has got swagger. Its coupled with polished, smooth and deliberate tracks. Though i'd like something a bit more catchy and melodic, it certainly stands strong.
The Cramps
4/5
I think this hit me at the right time. I got into what i felt was halloween themed rockabilly. Its raw and punky and delivers a high energy payload. Enjoyed!
G. Love & Special Sauce
2/5
The super slow bluesy style with rappin' doesn't work for me. Baby's Got Sauce is probably the most interesting, but ultimately i was anxiously waiting for the end by the time the 2nd track started.
The Sensational Alex Harvey Band
4/5
Totally surprised me. Though there is clearly nothing high brow here, the style seems like a Bon Scott / Slade feel with some catchy rock songs. There's only 7 tracks, but all of them hold their own, with Next being my favorite, though Faith Healer, Swampsnake and even Gang Bang are entertaining. Though the lyrics may be stuck in a different time, I definitely enjoyed the album.
The Beach Boys
3/5
This is certainly more of the traditional beach boys sound I remember (compared to Pet Sounds). Short sweet surfy pop. Though there are some catchy tracks, they get a bit stale towards the end. Overall fine, but nothing I gravitate towards.
2/5
There's a hint of some cool rocks moves in here (some wailing, some groove, some energy), but unfortunately it is largely held back by being emblematic of the worst era of rock history, some spacey psychedelic experimental rock. Space Child suffers the most but they all dip enough into it to sound very dated.
Sisters Of Mercy
5/5
This is definitely my vibe... dark, brooding, electronic... really like Andrew Eldritch's voice... has that Peter Murphy-like deep darkness. Definitely some fantastic tracks, This Corrosion and Dominion stand out, but even when the tempo varies, it is still interesting. Can listen to this over and over.
Rod Stewart
5/5
Stellar bluesy soulful rock record. Passionate and purposeful, the sound is timeless and isn't mired in the tropes of this era. Maggie May and Mandolin Wind stand out, but there isn't a bad track on this album.
Stevie Wonder
4/5
Though it is definitely a bit long for my tastes, there's a lot of solid stevie wonder content here. Melodic, soulful, smooth pop. At times, I'm not as into the funky-jazz angle (Contusion, Black Man), but also all the rest is easy to enjoy, with a few world class hits. Definitely enjoyed.
Magazine
4/5
I'm rounding up a little bit by Shot by Both Sides is excellent and tracks like The Light Pours Out of Me, Motorcade and Definitive Gaze are enough to keep the album interesting. There's definitely enough here with an early raw rock/punk style, that keeps it entertaining.
Radiohead
5/5
Definitely a bit more challenging songs than average for some Radiohead albums, but Pyramid Song, Packt, You and Whose Army, I Might Be Wrong, Morning Bells are all amazing. I've really enjoyed Thom Yorke's vocals... they are unique and perfectly suit the music. A favorite.
Soundgarden
5/5
I love Soundgarden. Though this isn't as heavy as Badmotorfinger, it seems to be a bit headier. Has an amazing collection of hits as well as lesser known gems such as Fresh Tendrils and Limo Wreck. Chris Cornell's voice is amazing and though everything is reasonably dark and heavy, the tempo and tone varies quite a bit from Fell on Black Days to Spoonman. Excellent.
Britney Spears
3/5
So there are a lot of bubble gum pop gems in here but the songs that don't really hit really seem to emphasize some record producer male fantasy of subservient teenage women that seems all the more creepy in that they all probably manufactured it for her to sing. Born To Make You Happy? I Will Be There? I Will Still Love You? Thinkin' About You? Jeez. I feel dirty.
3/5
A bombastic romp of 80's sounds mixed with layers of instruments. Look of Love and All of My Heart seem the strongest though nearly all have a dance energy and a general frivolity. There a couple times where the vocal delivery is a bit painful, such as the middle of Many Happy Returns. An interesting journey.
Björk
2/5
Sure it's adventurous, but when have i ever felt like "sure, I'm in the mood for Medulla!" It is generally strange, but then there are several cringey moments, well featured in Ancestors and Triumph of a Heart that just make you go "WTF?" Who Is It and Oceania are the closest to traditional deliveries and I'd be a lot more engaged if the rest wasn't as artsy/experimental. To each their own... this one isn't mine.
Muddy Waters
4/5
It almost feels like cliche blues. The sound and style of these tracks is seems almost dictionary perfect. However, I had to wait a bit for the mood to want to dig into it and by the time i got to Deep Down in Florida and Crosseyed Cat, i was really enjoying the energy. It's not for all the time, but really solid.
Fatboy Slim
3/5
Definitely a bit more tolerable than the last Fatboy Slim album. The dance tracks find their groove without being too outlandish... unfortunately we start diving into the ibiza-crazed techno alien sounds with repeating lyrics later into the album that seriously temper my enthusiasm. Interesting; barely a pass.
The Killers
5/5
Though it has a little bit of a lull in the middle, its pretty amazing how strong the first 5 songs on this album are in addition to several other keepers. Catchy and enjoyable.
The xx
4/5
It's paradoxical. Their voices are amazing, the vibe is cool, the beat/instruments is lean and ethereal. This so much feels like my jam, but the hits aren't too strong here. It's perfect vibe background music, but there's not a ton that is forever memorable. I like Dangerous and On Hold the best, but it needs a bit more of a hook to get me to the next level. Still, because everything else is so well balanced for me, i'm excited about what comes next.
Stevie Wonder
3/5
Stevie Wonder writes an amazing amount of boring music. A lot of his songs are just a lilty voice and some smooth jazz/funk that just meanders. This is contrasted by the devastating funk attack of Superstition, an indeniably incredible song. Maybe Your Baby also rocks while Blame It on the Sun and I Believe have some cool hooks, but never quite become a hit.
Slipknot
3/5
It certainly seems solid for what it is. Angry, traumatizing pain screamed into a microphone over aggressive, fast, heavy, thumping music. There's only a few times that they try to make approachable choruses (ala linkin park), but that is the exception, not the rule. It does got a bit tiring at 50 minutes, but solidly delivers its intent.
David Gray
5/5
Soulful and passionate. A strange and unexpected surprise of songs that are easy to enjoy and have enough of a hook to have their own identity. Killer album... i could listen to it over and over.
Kate Bush
2/5
So this is the 3rd Kate Bush album and i thought i knew what to expect. She still has a great an interesting voice, but i feel like she took some notes here to channel some bizarre Bjork-like cadences and then choose unusual art-house style vocalizations to drive people away. It's pretty challenging, especially as it seems she's chosen a new way to try to annoy us on every song. Music was fine, but can't make up for the overall strangeness. Don't really want to listen to it again.
George Michael
4/5
Really impressive and enjoyable release. Faith, Father Figure and One More Try stand high above the remaining track and only Monkey serves as the track i need to skip. It has a touch too much 80's synth on it, but his soulful and passionate voice and ability to craft some great pop songs make it easy to enjoy.
Beatles
5/5
Automatic 5. Revolver and Rubber Soul are my favorite Beatles albums. There is still pop in there, but so more exploratory and interesting. Amazing how many hits on a single release.
5/5
I've been a huge fan of this since I first heard it in the 80's. Shangri-La is one of my all time favorite songs, and I love the lyrical wit and heavy Britishness of it all. I love the album from start to finish. Smart, classic, rock.
The Isley Brothers
3/5
Suprising appearances of Seals & Crofts and James Taylor songs. Still, it's got a hip soul & funk style that is fun. I think Summer Breeze is probably my favorite, though it's all pretty polished and easily approachable. No major bangers, but enjoyable soul groove.
Madonna
3/5
I definitely get an appreciation that this is tonally different from prior madonna work.. it has an ambient, electronic, mood that washes through many of the tracks, making it sound more mature. The good news is that Frozen is an amazing track and potentially my favorite Madonna song of all time... unfortunately, nothing else really lives up to it. I like The Power of Good-Bye and Nothing Really Matters, but there really is a lot that seems like filler... a bit aimless and boring.
Incubus
4/5
Though i've never been an incubus fan... i don't love the lead singer's voice, the jazzy, scratchy blending isn't what i'm looking for in my alternative rock... there is definitely something unique an interesting about the band. they have a pretty unique sound and they can hit it out of the park with songs like drive (stellar and pardon me are also good, though i think The Warmth is my runner up for the album).
Björk
3/5
It seems the most approachable of the Bjork albums on this list recently (for me). It is still Bjork with her unusual vocal delivery, though the music is quite sweeping and majestic... layered orchestral that gives it depth and can soar at times. Stonemilker, Lionsong and Black Lake really stand out. Towards the end it gets a bit back to a bit more artsy and more challenging, but it was an interesting listen.
Eagles
5/5
Hotel California is quite an exceptional song and a great album. Plenty of Eagles highlights come from this album and the songs that you aren't originally familiar with are decent, keeping with the harmonies and soft melodies. Excellent.
fIREHOSE
3/5
It starts pretty strong with Riddle and In My Mind... unfortunately it is pretty midlin' after that. A bit experimental low-fi alt rock with a Television vibe, but unfortunately nothing seems a complete enough to engage too deeply. Somewhat interesting, but not enough good to push it higher.
Dwight Yoakam
4/5
Though not my first choice of styles... especially as it seems a bit flamboyant country with even a mariachi kind of vibe to it. Still it is pretty catchy and i really like the lyrics... 1st four songs are bangers, and there's enough that is good/interesting that it was a fun listen.
Snoop Dogg
3/5
Snoop definitely has a unique west coast style and vibe. His delivery is cool and has decent clever lyrics. Though a major contributor to the style, there's nothing that I love here. It was very interesting to listen to, but nothing i'll come back to.
Big Black
3/5
Parts of this reminded me of Agent Orange, a punk-rock vibe, though this has a bit stronger edge. There are definitely some drums/bass/guitar driving tracks that have a strong groove and do a great job of delivering an angsty energetic track. Fists of Love and Big Money work for me. A challenging album but enjoyable to explore
Prince
5/5
Hard to argue with the greatest of this album. Catchy pop treats with soul and energy. 7 of the 9 tracks are memorable, which is an easy win.
Bob Dylan
3/5
You pretty much know what you're getting with Dylan. Really strong lyrics and ideas laid over some pretty minimalist folk in his nasally delivery. I can most appreciate Blowin' in the Wind, Masters of War and A Hard Rain's a-Gonna Fall. The rest are fine, but not sure i actually enjoy them enough to want to listen to them again.
The Modern Lovers
4/5
Pretty damn fun. Pablo Picasso and Hospital stand tallest for me, but the it's a really enjoyable rock vibe that doesn't stray into very many of the cliches of the time. The music is still enjoyable today and has a strong garage vibe. The guitar, and bass on Pablo Picasso are exceptional. The song just drives! I enjoyed my time with Jonathan Richman and the Modern Lovers.
Depeche Mode
5/5
This has seemed to be the last great Depeche Mode album. A bit more mature, dark, brooding, with Enjoy the Silence and Policy of Truth being some of the band's best songs. The rest of the album is strong and enjoyable.
Madonna
3/5
The first few tracks and interesting with a curious electronic vibe, but I like the later tracks that a little bit more mellow and moody. It definitely feels like a mature pop record, though there is nothing catchy enough to warrant repeat listens.
Little Simz
4/5
There is definitely something really promising in Little Simz style and flow. Selfish and Wounds really turns a corner on this album. It's a tight rap, minimalistic at times, but nicely layered with beats & atmosphere that makes it pretty interesting. Though the N word is featured prominently, i was really intrigued and excited. Nice surprise.
Elliott Smith
4/5
I find Elliott Smith's style a bit difficult to get into. At first blush it all sounds very samey, and his voice is soft, frequently disaffected, and competes with the music. Still, it's clear there is some interesting songcraft here... interesting lyrics and some muted energy. After a few times through the album, some tracks grew on me, and ones like Son of Sam, Junk Bond Trader and Wouldn't Mama Be Proud start to become more interesting. There's enough to make me more interested in more listening and exploring his other albums.
Malcolm McLaren
3/5
I going to pretend i didn't hear "Duck for the Oyster"... definitely a bizarre experiment to close the album. Though it probably had about 50-75% too much skit, i was surprised by the creativity and how the world-music influence hip hop was pretty interesting and enjoyable. Double Dutch, Punk It Up, Jive My Baby and Soweto stood out for me. Buffalo Gals had a bit of a dated sound, but overall the album was a bit of a positive surprise.
Beth Orton
4/5
I really love Beth Orton's voice and delivery. Stolen Car is an absolutely amazing song, her voice carries a great melancholy and passion. Central Reservation and Stars All Seem to Weep really stand out as well. Much of the rest does have a samey feel, but the vibe is great.
The Auteurs
3/5
A kind of light weight brit pop, with delicate singing over it. The formula is pretty consistent throughout the album... a lot of it blending together. I think Show Girl and Housebreaker were the most memorable, though the album didn't have many highs or anything that was too unusual or challenging.
Peter Gabriel
5/5
A pretty phenomenal record simply based on the variety with slower introspective piece like Red Rain and In Your Eyees, that are catchy and moving... as well as more poppy uptempo tracks like Sledgehammer and Big Time. The rest of the album is fine, with a nice duet with Kate Bush.
Simon & Garfunkel
4/5
I was tempted to take a star off for a lyrics that refers to \"South California\" (Punky's Dilemma), though the album was very challenging to rate as I didn't expect the uneveness on the first half. Why \"Voices of Old People\"? And tracks like Overs and Old Friends are sleep inducing. However, America, Mrs. Robinson, Hazy Shade, and At the Zoo are monsters, with tracks like the Bookends Theme and Fakin' It showing strong support. When it hits it is beautiful, catchy, melodic pop with sweet choruses.
Bruce Springsteen
4/5
The album soars on Thunder Road, Born to Run and Tenth Avenue. Songs like Night and Backstreets also heavily benefit from Bruce's lyrics and delivery. Passionate intentional rock. The album is really compelling. The last 3 tracks don't quite keep me as engaged, especially 9+ minutes of Jungleland... but still strong and engaging overall.
Nanci Griffith
3/5
Pretty much seems to solidly hit that sweet female voice over a lot of slow paced folk country. Its pretty boring... though it is elevated a bit by Goin' Gone and Workin' Girl. Not particularly compelling or interesting. A generous 3.
Girls Against Boys
3/5
I definitely like how it starts... the bass and drums definitely find a groove and push the music forward. The muted, mumbly lyrics do kind of fit with the overall vibe and i think it works. My main issue is that it seems like all the songs are like 20% different than the next. It has potential, but not much stands out.
Cheap Trick
5/5
Definitely a surprise. I didn't expect that a live concert album from the 70's was actually good beyond the notable hits (I Want You to Want Me and Surrender), but this one really delivers. Though nothing else is quite as good as those, the whole album from start to finish does maintain a great energy and I enjoyed the whole trek. Big Eyes, Need Your Love, Come On, Come On, Aint that a Shame... pretty much everything put a smile on my face. Very enjoyable.
3/5
XTC seems like eccentric alt. rock. A bit artsy and unusual. I like the cadence of Your Dictionary, and there are some tracks like I'd Like That, Frivolous Tonight that seem pretty straightforward and are fine. Overall it is interesting more than enjoyable.
The Saints
3/5
Totally serviceable punk rock. The delivery doesn't seem as angry or angsty as would benefit the music... it seems a bit plain or disaffected. I like both Memories are Made of This and A Minor Aversion, apparently a time where they were allowed to use the "R" work. ;)
Van Morrison
5/5
I'm normally against double albums, and there is certainly a question raised about a live album (especially if you can cherry pick your own tracks and your favorite covers). Still, this is a pretty amazing backstory and the fact that it is reported that Moondance was thrown off this release list because there was one wrong note played. It is very cool to think that every night of the tour was a different riff on these tracks. Van Morrison is definitely in hit soulful passionate prime and it shows here. There are lots of home runs here. Great album. Its a really powerful set.
Leonard Cohen
4/5
It's the fifth Leonard Cohen album... maybe I'm finally getting used to it. Though there does seem to be an amazing sameness to the style and delivery of the album... soft spoken word over simple arrangements, I like the somber mood/tone and songs like You Want it Darker and Seemed the Better Way stand out for me. I appreciated this more than what I've heard before from Mr. Cohen.
Kings of Leon
3/5
Overall it is just kinda fine alternative rock, with a bit of a southern flare. I'll give them credit for varying up their sound a bit from track to track. My biggest hangup is the lead singer's delivery... his refrain on Day Old Blues is a good example of the style that quickly becomes irritating to me. Still there are some strong tracks like Four Kicks and The Bucket
Judas Priest
5/5
This is solid gold. Rob Halford's voice is just perfect for this style of music... and the tracks are the equivalent of pop masterpieces of this style. The chunky driving guitars, memorable riffs, measurable and meaningful solos, with a guitar raft of home run tracks: rapid fire, metal gods, breaking the law, grinder, united, living after midnight and the rage. Plus the cover art is fire.
Bill Callahan
3/5
Baesd on the album cover and sound, i would have thought this was a soft folky release from 1974. Crazy that this is 2009 music. I do like the title, and there is something that just makes me smile when he gets to the lyric "Eid Ma Clack Shaw"... it is so atypical. I do enjoy that track and Too Many Birds. There are some weird choices, like nearly 10 minutes of telling me to put to god away, but an interesting listen.
Rod Stewart
3/5
I like Rod Stewart as a soulful rock singer. Country Comfort stands up as the most compelling to me on the album though his version of It's All Over Now is also strong. The rest deliver his sound, though none really are hits that i'd go back to. I could have lived without You're My Girl (the approach doesn't quite work 50 years later, and the song has nothing to say other than that).
Slipknot
3/5
Feels like more of the same from Slipknot without being exceptional. Fulfills their niche of hard heavy metal with aggressive rhythm and guitars. Though it all seems dark and angry, the lyrics seem pretty strong for what will pass in this genre. The highlight is their ballad, Snuff, which is quite good.
The Zutons
3/5
An interesting mix of styles... reminds me a lot of garage rock from the 60's... a la The Chocolate Watchband... occasionally mixed with a Radiohead vibe (I can easily see Thom Yorke delivering in the style of Pressure Point or Havana Gang Brawl). The album has some interesting variety, cool percussion and a pretty approachable style. Havana Gang Brawl is the strongest track for me, with the remaining being an interesting listen.
MC Solaar
3/5
Not sure what I'm supposed to do with French Hip Hop. Definitely makes you focus more on beats, repeating choruses, and the vibe. Made me curious if something like "Who's Next", if sung in french, would still be obviously impressive. Missing the lyrics makes it a bit more difficult, but outside of Quartier nord and Ragga Jam, it was a fine stroll through something different. I did like Carolina and the general feel of tracks like Victime de la mode and Armand est mort. A fine adventure.
Django Django
4/5
Pretty dang cool surprise. A spacey ethereal sounds band with some tribal/junglely beats and a lot of chorus/overdub vocals that really works. The beats are toe-tapping good, a bit quirky, and would fit in a late 60's zombies camp or alternative rock hoodoo gurus vibe. Zumm Zumm was a little irritating (skipping that on repeat listens), but overall it was really enjoyable.
The Chemical Brothers
3/5
Maybe it was my mood today, but this wasn't quite as difficult to listen to as my last adventure with the Chemical Brothers. Though objectively there are still some screechy, sireny noise, I felt this was more of a soundtrack to flying a spaceship over an alien landscape. As nearly all of it lacks lyrics, it is hard to differentiate tracks, but Chico's Groove was a bit more low key and something i enjoyed. Overall a fine adventure this time.
Tom Waits
3/5
Though i'm getting more acclimated to Tom Waits' style, i found the music a bit uneven for my enjoyment. I'm just getting used to the smoke & whiskey gravelly voice mixed with anguish. Dirt in the Ground, Who Are You, Whistle Down the Wind and That Feel are good examples here. Also really enjoyed A Little Rain. There is a lot of other items to like, though i am still thrown by his more adventurous experiments: all stripped down, in the colosseum, and ocean doesn't want me which pulls me out of the vibe. Overall engaging and interesting.
Pere Ubu
2/5
A pretty challenging album. Though the vocal delivery is certainly a bit unusual and offputting, the album does get a decent vibe and execution for On the Surface and Dub Housing. Even Caligari's Mirror is mostly sane. But at some point, it does become a bit of an art project, and other than Ubu Dance Party, most of the rest is a bit noisy and sounds less focused. It is a bit interesting, but I really only found promise on a few songs.
Nine Inch Nails
4/5
This album is all in on its apocalyptic diseased industrial electronic rock hell. Trent Reznor does a compelling job with tortured lyrics, music and vocal delivery through much of the album. This singular vision makes the tracks pretty compelling whether heavily instrumental (where mood is everything) or in the depth of twisted lyrics, such as from March of the Pigs. Very engaging.
Orbital
3/5
The quietly repeating lyrics drives me a bit batty everytime i hear it and this album indulges three times with Time Becomes, Planet of the Shapes and Input Out. Still, there are some very cool vibe tracks that take you away... Lush 3-1, Lush 3-2 and Remind are really good. Definitely liked how Remind was able to subtlely morph over its 8 minutes but stay engaging.
Harry Nilsson
3/5
Has a nice singer-songwriter pop vibe... ala Randy Newman in places as well as a John Lennon influence/flair. Without You is miles ahead of anything else on this album for entertainment, though i'll admit Coconut is quirky and fun. Most of the rest is pretty pleasant but not all that memorable.
CHVRCHES
4/5
I love the lead singers voice and the buzzy poppy funky electronic sounds... it can build and rock at times that really has good energy. The Mother We Share is included, though I also find Recover really strong.
Charles Mingus
2/5
Definitely a challenging listen. There are parts where it is focused on a few instruments, or a fragile balance across instruments, but each of these four tracks finds their moments to choose a cacophonous frenzied drunken animals on instruments approach. It seems to devolve to a play whatever you want as long as it is loud and fast. This did not help me on my journey to better understand jazz.
Big Star
3/5
Serviceable pop-rock from the early 70's. Has the occasional Byrds feel with nice vocal harmonies. The repetitiveness of the lyrics (it feels in some cases that the whole song is just the title repeated over and over) is annoying once you notice it.... and not sure i have an explanation for a song titled "Thirteen" that talks about outlaw love.
New Order
4/5
It's a great balance between rock and synth/electronic. Though at times its about 20% too much 80's synth, it doesn't seem to stick there too long to feel really dated. The guitar work in Sunrise really drives it forward and songs like Love Vigilantes and The Perfect Kiss are really memorable. Enjoyed!
Stephen Stills
3/5
For the most part pleasant, though I'm not sure messages like "Love the One You're With" is really that timeless. Tracks like Church and Go Back Home are also pretty strong, good melodies, engaging harmonies and energy. The use of an organ makes it sound dated in places, and by the time we've hit Cherokee and We Are Not Helpless, we've gone pretty much full hippie. Never go full hippie.
Bob Dylan
3/5
A very bluesy rock Bob Dylan. It gets a little tiring at times, particularly on the 16 minute highlands which feels like an uneventful story told as slowly as possible... it begs to be clever with how long it takes to unfold, but doesn't really get any base hits. Standing in the Dooway and Not Dark Yet stand out.
The Temptations
3/5
There are two tales here. Cloud Nine is weirdly psychedelic/funky, Grapevine is a troubling cover, and Run Away Child is a bit overdone (I think there was a "help me momma" in the middle that was quite a bit of a head scratcher. Then the album becomes a bit what you expect... 7 straight, sweet, short motown pop soul. Though none of them are super memorable, they are all solid.
Wilco
4/5
Certainly longer than most, and took a few times to get through. I definitely begins to pay off more on repeat listens... it has the singer-songwriter/rock vibe that I also get from Paul Westerberg. I like that the music isn't afraid to get noisy/challenging, though I believe it pays off much better on Misunderstood than with Sunken Treasure. There are a bunch of really strong songs including Far, Far Away, Monday, Say You Miss Me, that make it compelling. Though it begins to drag a bit, there's nothing that is bad here.
Tim Buckley
2/5
I don't really get this one. Though it seems a bit unusual to hear a xylophone as a featured instrument, much of it is a weird croony folk swingy arrangement that doesn't really have any interesting hooks. It's passable, but then we get to 12 minutes of Gypsy Woman, where he starts to unleash his inner funky hippie. Hard one to finish.
Parliament
3/5
Definitely a lot of fun. High energy, outlandish funk. I feel like a lot of this is sampled in more modern rap, but its great to hear it in its original context. Give Up the Funk is clearly the star, but I enjoyed Unfunky UFO and Handcuffs as well. Supergroovalistic has the entire kitchen sink of layers and sounds... it is crazy how much is going on in the background. Nice surprise.
Giant Sand
3/5
Seems at its strongest when the poetry reading-like delivery is blended with a bit of a signing approach that lines up with the tone of the music. I this Dusted, Punishing Sun, Shiver and Astonished stand out the most for me. Songs like 1972 and Satellite are musically more angsty, but the vocal delivery is still a bit disaffected and seems a bit off to me. Interesting listen.
Nick Drake
3/5
I've listened to this a dozen times trying to find the magic of Nick Drake. He has a pleasant acoustic guitar plucking sound with some pretty decent orchestration of other instruments. My downside is that when the tempo is slow, it is really rambly rambly boring. Hazey Jane 2 and One of These Things First are a bit more interesting, but nothing to really get me to understand his reported brilliance. It was fine, though will likely not return.
David Bowie
3/5
Always something interesting about Bowie. It is a bit challenging at times (If You Can See Me, Dancing Out in Space), but there's definitely enough here to warrant multiple listens. The Stars and Valentine's Day are really strong though most of the rest are interesting because they are Bowie, not because they have really good hooks. Enjoyed.
4/5
It's the Beatles, so it almost automatically a classic. Plenty of memorable songs, with A Day in the Life standing out the most for me. I think the experimental/hippie flavoring doesn't hold up as well... it's easy to disregard as that is how I've always heard this album, but if i was just being introduced to it today, I can see how it is slightly offputting. That said, this is certainly a monumental album.
Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark
4/5
Really liked how this kicked off. The New Stone Age was more aggressive than i expected from what I knew of OMD. However, it really is the only song in this vein, though it is pretty cool. There are other solid, more melodic light electronic tracks with a hook, including She's Leaving, Souvenir, Joan of Arc and Maid of Orleans. Those are really the core of it. The remainder is uneventful and pretty much blends together. Enjoyable enough to round up.
Khaled
3/5
A tough one to evaluate, though it is pretty approachable for a non-English album. Trigue Lycee was a standout on a first listen and it was all fine, though I was interested in skipping Gnawi style after a minute or two in. I doubt I'll be listening again, but this was a good experience.
Megadeth
3/5
Certainly intense with Peace Sells and My Last Words standing out the most as interesting and memorable. Much of the rest blurs together in avalanche of speedy licks and fast drumming.
The Bees
3/5
A quirky alt-rock/pop album that has a bit of variety though the engagement level is a bit up and down. Particuarly as the latter half of the album seems to slow down quite a bit and be a mix of instrumentals and low tempo tracks. The highlight is the more energetic track, A Minha Menina, which is catchy and fun. No Trophy is also strong.
The Rolling Stones
3/5
Very interesting. A pretty dated sounding dirty blues-rock album that seems very straightforward. Nothing is too remarkable about the set of tracks here, however Tell Me definitely sounds the most compelling and what I think of as the Rolling Stones. I definitely laughed as I checked the writing credits and noticed it was the only band authored song on the album. Certainly makes it obvious that they should be doing less covers and more of their own music.
Nirvana
5/5
Still an amazing original album after all this time. It's a surprising combination of melodic aggressive alternative rock tracks with catchy hooks, and raw angsty noisy energy that is much more challenging. Definitely an album I would love to be able to listen to for the first time again and experience it completely fresh. Great.
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
4/5
Three absolute bangers on this album plus Party Girl makes this a solid offering. There is something about Elvis' delivery that really makes his lyrics/rhymes shine. Pretty easy to enjoy the whole album.
FKA twigs
3/5
Lush electronic soundscape. I am intrigued by the layered music and cool beats. Her waify voice goes well with the music, but because there really aren't any catchy melodies or driving music, its a bit hard to "get into it"... it seems more atmospheric and kind of a background music vibe. Worth listening to.
Small Faces
3/5
I really enjoyed this album when i was in college. Definitely captures that late 60's psychedelic rock that is largely melodic and engaging. Afterglow is still stellar. Pretty much every up to Happiness Stan can be appreciated if you can accept the 60's vibe. It then just gets a bit too weird and given that we have 19 minutes of Stan... I can't quite endorse this as much as if i were just reviewing the first half. Enjoyed revisiting it.
Traffic
3/5
It treads a fine line between rock and hippie rock. Mulberry Bush is a bit out there (as well as some other later tracks), in addition to some of the lyrical content (Pearly Queen) is definitely late 60's hippie infused. Still, Feelin' Alright? is great and Cryin' to be Heard is also strong. Enjoyed, though a bit long by the end.
Slayer
3/5
It sounds a bit like a take off on Metallica's Kill 'Em All if there wasn't anything catchy or very interesting. Most of it sounds like the same song, either sped up or slowed down by 25%. Every once in a while there is a totally "this doesn't fit with the rest of the song" speed metal solo. Towards the end, there is a little more groove and uniqueness, definitely Raining Blood and parts of Postmortem and Reborn.
The Beta Band
3/5
The songs are a bit bland muted alternative rock, though it unfortunately treads more frequently into repetitive irritating land (Squares, Dragon, Eclipse) than something catchy. I do like the very subtle Gone, and Quiet is a bit more engaging. Its fine, but overall not very eventful.
The Shamen
3/5
A pretty wide range of electronic-pop that occasionally dips into a more trance-rave type style. The main downside is that some of the electronic beats are dated and sound like they come from the late 80's. Others are a bit more successful. Lightspan and Make It Minimal hit that groove for me. The rest are just ok.
Happy Mondays
3/5
The music a bit of a blurry din. Its as if the lead singer doesn't realize how microphone's work and is trying to sing his lyrics really loudly. The bass is overdelivered, but there is a cool beat and danceable rhythm through much of it. There was nothing that I loved, but it was an interesting listen.
Buck Owens
4/5
Suprisingly fun, though it is certainly a pretty dated country style. Definitely a country twang with a rock and hillbilly angle. I could pass on Wham Bam, but the rest are straightforward and catchy.
JAY Z
4/5
I am not the biggest Jay-Z fan, but this is lyrically fascinating, has plenty of catching beats/rhymes, and captures a slice of the braggadocio rap life. Heart of the City and Renegade are stellar (Eminem shines as well). Great listen.
Rush
4/5
Really expected going in this was going to be an easy 5. Tom Sawyer, Red Barchetta and Limelight are amazing. Vital Signs is even really strong. However, the virtuoso prog rock stylings of the other tracks, including 11 minutes of The Camera Eye are just a bit too much to completely overlook. Really enjoyable but it is better skipping almost half the album (in elapsed time).
The Jam
5/5
I love the complete britishness of it, and the mod sound. Its bit rock, a bit punk and plenty of energy and sass. Fly is probably the only song that is forgettable, the rest being interesting and compelling enough to sign along from start to finish. Down in a Tube Station has an incredibly engaging lyrics/vision and is its own masterpiece of a song. Love this album and the Jam.
Beck
4/5
Fun adventurous and quirky. The songs each really contribute their own little bit of style and swag in an eccentric and unusual way. Things like E-Pro, Guero, Girl, Hell Yes, Go It Alone are all catchy, while there is still something that is engaging with tracks like Broken Drum and Black Tambourine. Everything is really solid.
The Afghan Whigs
4/5
This is surprising compelling. The pain and torment is clear with music that matches it well. Alt rock vibe that gets appropriately noisy when it needs. Really enjoyed it and plan to explore it more soon.
Pulp
3/5
A fine brit-alt-rock album, though i don't think i'm 100% aligned with Jarvis' lyrical style... a few too many song lyrics seem like boring observations from a boring observer. Still songs like The Fear, I'm A Man and This is Hardcore are a bit more catchy and interesting.
Kings of Leon
4/5
One heck of an impressive album. I like the lead singer's voice, it has a lot of passion/emotion and successfully navigates that gravelly voice without being overused. The first 6 songs on this album are among the best, Closer is an energetic, a bit aggressive sound (that strangely reminds me another song with an understated background siren, Ebow the Letter). The back is still pretty good though loses some of the catchiness of the early tracks. Really enjoyed.
David Bowie
4/5
Probably the least "challenging" Bowie album i've heard. The funk angle for these songs works, and tracks like Win, Fascination, Somebody Up There Likes Me and Can You Hear Me maintain a cool Bowie vibe would being a bit soulful. Cleary Fame and Young Americans stand out as obviously catchy and cool, but the rest of the album holds its own. Decent cover of across the universe, as well.
The United States Of America
3/5
It's hard for this genre to survive to modern day and be much more than an interesting sideshow. There is definitely an adventurousness in the variety of electronic and psychedelic sounds... which sometimes gets overdone (Earthly Delights, American Way of Love), while there a several more traditional hippie pop/rock songs that are fine (Hard Coming Love, Where Is Yesterday, Stranded in Time). An interesting adventure. I also note that this is definitely not a name that folks could get away with these days... much like the band "Live", this would be an artist that would be very confusing for an internet search.
Gil Scott-Heron
2/5
wow. i get it. relevant message of the times and likely still important today. but not this musical approach, and certainly don't need the soulful poetry lecture.
2/5
I don't get this one. Though the Cisco Kid isn't bad, it it quickly gets repetitive and that is a short song. Though City, Country is an instrumental, it's a 13 minute trip that doesn't really go anywhere. Certainly by the time four cornered and world is a ghetto rolled around it was getting pretty tiresome. Not enough to make these track compelling, especially over their long durations.
Motörhead
4/5
At some level this doesn't seem fair. The energy of a live recording is pretty awesome, and clearly they get to pick the best material from their first 5 albums to put together a tight 11 track set. There's a lot of really strong songs here, Ace of Spades being the obvious hit, but i enjoyed Iron Horse, Overkill and Road Crew quite a lot as well. Biggest complaint is the recording seems a bit muddy, i would have loved it to be brighter with a bit more fidelity.
Genesis
3/5
There are some high moments in this, and Peter Gabriel has a fabulous voice for this style of music. But a majority of this seems to be an intellectual rock with an occasional prog influence. Moonlit Knight and Aisle of Plenty stood out the most, the remaining being engaging, but a bit tiring by the end.
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
2/5
I wanted to like this. Nick Cave typically has a style and attitude that is pretty interesting. This is really a curve ball, and it is the strangest sameyness with it's ambient lightweight almost non-existent music. Maybe there is something deeper in the lyrics that i'm missing, but the musical side of this album is pretty "one note" to me.
2/5
There's a bit of a cool vibe that starts this, but it all falls apart pretty quickly. The songs don't really go anywhere... they just get started and do the same thing pretty uninteresting thing for 5 minutes. There's a couple of songs that are a bit experimental and interesting, but it tends to not be in a good way. All seems pretty skippable.
Keith Jarrett
3/5
Though i was once again afraid of "jazz", this is the most easily approachable jazz. It isn't dependent upon instruments clashing with each other, but is a single instrument that is pretty creative and easy to follow. Because it feels like an hour of piano noodling, i don't know that i'll go back to it, but it is good for its vibe and probably great background music at a yuppie dinner party.
Lorde
5/5
I like Pure Heroine more than this album, but it is still really unique and engaging. The electronic beats, her light vocal delivery, and the interesting spaces in the music. It seems deftly crafted and has a pretty unique sound. Though Liability and Perfect Places are probably strongest, nearly everything here is engaging.
Mudhoney
3/5
I'm sure its a naive and probably mean thing to say, but it sounds like a bad imitation at something between Nevermind and In Utero. The vocalist doesn't have the angst/passion of Kurt, and there's nothing that's really catchy. A bunch of punk/edgy alt rock. Overall, I like the energy and vibe, Check-Out Time is probably my favorite.
The Sabres Of Paradise
3/5
I'm definitely intriqued by electronic/ambient music and found this pretty easy to enjoy. There were some segments that detracted from the vibe (Return to Planet D), but overall it is a cool journey.
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
4/5
The album is fantastic. I like the range from acoustic to electric, though the starting set is a bit more consistent. The background chorus on welfare mothers is an automatic "no" for me, so i struggle through that one, otherwise the album is hits the neil young folkiness, and then turns on the angst/energy by the time we get to sedan delivery and the closing Hey Hey My My.
Dolly Parton
3/5
Definitely not my style, but i'm not going to hate on it. The harmonies are nice and Telling Me Lies and Those Memories of You were a bit more interesting to me than the rest. Definitely a lot of it blends together.
Adele
5/5
I wouldn't have considered Adele my type of music, but i'm certainly familiar with Rolling in the Deep, Set Fire and Someone Like You. That is certainly only half the story... each song has a hook. She's got a beautiful voice and great pop sensibilities. It really is one banger after another.
Rage Against The Machine
5/5
Nothing like them. Sharp, smart lyrics and an atomic thunder funk rock blast on track after track. Probably the most challenging listen is Settle for Nothing, but the rawness, energy and rage makes it compelling as well.
King Crimson
3/5
This started pretty miserable and if also included The Talking Drum, i would say there isn't much to redeem it. However, the other tracks attempt a bit more traditional prog rock vibe and even if they aren't great, they are listenable and interesting.
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
3/5
An easily approachable and mellow Nick Cave album. The songs are pretty quiet and somber, and other than Green Eyes, nothing too unusual. After listening to it a handful of times, it is just fine, without much that i really attach to or connect with.
Blur
3/5
There's a lot of potential here. I like the general style, and occasional more challenging, noisy, attitude filled barrage that is mixed in. Songs like Death of a Party, which have a Gorillaz vibe, are the strongest for me... Look Inside America has a very Bowie sound as well. Song 2 is special, though that has become skippable now. Not enough that is really outstanding to move it higher.
The Last Shadow Puppets
4/5
A really approach easy to enjoy Arctic Monkeys sound. A bit less aggressive, but it sounds like smooth british rock with quite a few solid songs. The first 3 stand out the most, and there is a bit of it all blending together, but enjoyable from start to finish.
The Specials
4/5
The first half of this album is really strong. I enjoy Man at C&A and Do Nothing a lot. The overall two-tone vibe is unique and fun and other than the horribly monotonous I Can't Stand It, the album is solid to strong. Given the happy vibe overall, i edge it up a bit on my list.
Aimee Mann
5/5
I'm all in in what Aimee Mann is selling. Though there's not a track that stands out as "i have to listen to that over and over again", from start to finish the album is approachable and has a good amount of energy for a alt-rock-folk-pop vibe. I really like her voice and delivery. I say Yes!
The Gun Club
3/5
I like stripped down straight forward pop punk. Sex Beat is a great start, but other than She's Like Heroin, i found the rest pretty bland and ordinary.
The White Stripes
5/5
The White Stripes have that "something". Bluesy, passionate rock, that isn't afraid to have sparse stripped down tracks that really highlight Jack White's vocal delivery. From start to finish the tracks are engaging and varied enough that really hold your attention.
Peter Tosh
4/5
I find reggae pretty easy to enjoy... smooth, approachable, cool funk and has that easy-living island vibe. Though the title track is a bit BLUNT (lol) with it's message, tracks like Burial, Let Jah Be Praised, and Ketchy Shuby are groove worthy. The rest of the album is easy to enjoy.
Grateful Dead
2/5
You kind of know what you're getting with the Grateful Dead. A lot of the mild jammy stuff is fine, and actually there are some short vocal parts that are entirely listenable. Unfortunately, there's also far too much noodling and some annoying electric guitar as a wind chime in a unpredictable wind that tires pretty quickly. And given that we have 10, 15 and 23 minute tracks, there's plenty of reason to be tired.
Sheryl Crow
3/5
It starts really strong, definitely the first 3 tracks are automatically a win, however, nearly all the rest is filler. All gentle pleasant pop, with an occasional jazzy adult contemporary vibe, but unfortunately it all pretty much blends together.
The Velvet Underground
5/5
Though definitely a bit artsy/experimental (certainly European Son), it is all very approachable folk approach that is more challenging due to lyrical content and some ways it conveys story with pacing (e.g. Heroin). Compelling from start to finish.
Radiohead
5/5
Definitely one of those bands and experiences where a good set of headphones really adds to engagement. The tracks can be pretty challenging, though most of them find a pretty unique groove and just nail it (Sail to the Moon, Where I End and You Begin, There There). A great sonic experience.
Beatles
5/5
It feels too long and a bit too experimental at the end for its own good. There's at least 5, up to 10 tracks that could be dropped and this would be improved. However, what is left is a pretty amazing library of great and interesting Beatles tracks. Compelling.
Bobby Womack
3/5
Interesting and fun. A pop-funk-R&B-disco vibe that is very dated to the early eighties. A bit more time-period synthensizer. The songs do have a pretty good pop catchy hook, though the repeating chorus of tracks like Secrets does tire pretty early. Amazingly, the most shockingly dated track, Stand Up, is also the most fun. It goes heavy into disco-synth, but it just bounces. I'm not sure what he's trying to say with "if you think you're lonely now"... it sounds like a threat. Still fun.
Lana Del Rey
4/5
I'm on board with Lana Del Rey. Though she absolutely has a beautiful voice, i can understand that her super soft lilty whispering siren delivery is not everyone's cup of tea. There's at least 4 of her albums I like more than this one, but there are still some wonderful songs here. Chemtrails and Let Me Love You stand out for me. Parts of it get a little samey by the end.
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
3/5
This is unfortunately the 5th Nick Cave album we've seen on this list, and it is again, nothing special. Nick Cave has his vibe, and though he might branch out and do something different to warrant attention, it doesn't make him an artist worthy of 5 selections on this list. My take is he barely warrants 2. For this album, its fine... Brother My Cup and Loom of the Land are my favorites, though they are just more listenable than the rest, not that they are great catchy tunes.
Ali Farka Touré
5/5
Really damn surprising and cool. Certainly the title track seems to be the highlight, though the whole album has a cool african blues vibe that seems to require the least out of the lyrics to still enjoy it. I had a wonderful evening/sunset beach walk with this being the soundtrack. It was great!
Brian Wilson
2/5
I guess it was an answer to an interesting question... what would a more modern take on the Beach Boys sound like? For this, Brian seems to have doubled down on classic harmonies and declared success. Unfortunately, though the harmonies are clean, I have the same enthusiasm for a barbershop quartet or some sideshow singers. Its nothing without actually having good songs. And maybe this was intended at a elementary school audience (i'm looking at you vegetable song), but that you can still have decent songs. The fact that they put a version of Good Vibrations on the album is just a painful reminder of what a good song would sound like. A slog to get through.
Yes
3/5
Wasn't looking forward to this based on prior experience with "prog rock". Endless noodling without being very compelling music. I'll give them some credit that this was some of the most approachable prog rock and reminded me more of rush and their prog rock dabblings that other Yes efforts we've heard. All Good People is actually good, and even Yours is No Disgrace is pretty strong. Much more enjoyable than expected.
The Vines
4/5
Super solid rock album. Though the lead singer's voice isn't very unique... he really sounds to me like "generic rock singer", each of the songs has enough of a pop hook that it really works, track after track. Enjoyable that there is some pacing variety, a few ballad style tracks as well as straight ahead rockers. Enjoyed.
Christine and the Queens
3/5
I like the positive poppy vibe with some cool slightly vintage sounding electronic beats. Very easy to listen to, though i didn't find too anything that was really catchy (which i would have hoped given the poppy nature). Consistently good.
Public Image Ltd.
3/5
Definitely a tortured anguish slow punk vibe that is pretty cool. The first part of the album is really strong... i like Albatross, Swan Lake, Poptones and Careering. Even though Graveyard is an instrumental, i think it is the best track. Unfortunately The Suit undermines all the good will they built up to that point. I feel like given the arrogance of Johnny Lydon, he would put out something better than The Suit... i'm not sure its even defendable. The rest is pretty mediocre and though we were strongly headed to 4 territory at the beginning... we ended up pulling back to a...
The Psychedelic Furs
4/5
I really really like Richard Butler's voice. I was pretty surprised by Dumb Waiters... it felt like an alt-rock sex pistols track and delivered well. Pretty in Pink is an otherwordly pop gem. Actually much of the rest is also pretty strong, with All of This and She is Mine being the last two and the next best to me. Enjoyed the trip.
The Stooges
3/5
Though it is a seminal rock work, i don't think it holds up particularly well. I don't love iggy's plain singing rock voice... very generic and not interesting. just shouty/screamy. His best sound is when he is able to use his Iggy twang, on tracks like I Need Somebody (a little slower). In general, it sounds a bit like the Doors (maybe a bit less psychedelic), but nothing as as catchy. I like Search & Destroy and I Need Somebody most. Interesting listen.
Hole
5/5
One of the most passionate and raw emotional albums. Violet is one of my all time favorite songs, and tracks like Miss World, Asking for It, and Doll Parts are all outstanding. The album doesn't shy away from some challenging angry rock, but still it delivers punch after punch. Really love this album.
Tom Tom Club
4/5
This surprised me. I really didn't like Genius of Love when it was released to radio. Turn off the radio or change the station. At this point, i really like the bizarre quirkiness of this album. Wordy and Genius of Love are creative and unusual. Though not everything on the album is great, Lorelei, and On, On are pretty strong and the cover of the Under the Boardwalk is catchy. Much more exciting and interesting to listen to than expected.
Napalm Death
3/5
Okay, that was quite an adventure, but in the spirit of art and attitude, i'm not entirely without appreciation for this. The more it sounds like music, the easier it is to appreciate. Certainly Siege of Power is a pretty strong song.... part of Scum and M.A.D. also are enough tone and mood that are done with the instruments. Much of the rest is aggressive crazy energy. Just wild to have songs that are less than a minute, including one that is less than 2 seconds. The Side One band is my favorite... the little gremlin voice the dude uses (especially at the end of Divine Death) don't make the music better. I chuckled to myself quite a bit while listening. Quite fun.
Anthrax
3/5
There some really good hard rock in the music here. After listening to napalm death, it is refreshing to hear an attempt at a driving groove and crunch from the guitars, bass and drums. Caught in a Mosh is pretty good, and NFL is entertaining... my biggest issue is the lyrical delivery seems like more of a distraction and detractor from the music. A Skeleton just sounds dumb. And sadly, Indians and I Am the Law just come off as either insincere and corny/cartoony. The music is heavy, the lyrics and delivery are poor.
Hugh Masekela
3/5
This straddles the line between some cool international beats and approachable jazz with some frenetic jazzy detours and some further adventures into international flair. Fortunately the cool vibe dominates a majority of the album and was among the better jazz albums we've been exposed to here.
Robert Wyatt
2/5
Heaps of Sheeps make you think this will be a pretty straightforward folky alternative album that is easily listenable. That thought ends on Track 2. It's just a weird, out-of-tune singing, sour sounding, arty folks that unfortunately I couldn't really find much to appreciate. Glad it was over.
Jazmine Sullivan
3/5
I appreciate the feminist slant of the lyrics and message made. I'm probably not the target audience here, but it was an interesting listen. Girl Like Me stood out for me.
Ryan Adams
4/5
I like his singer/songwriter style and the songs themselves see well crafted and sung. For the most part, quiet simple musical arrangement, with a convincingly heartfelt delivery. The first half of the album is really strong, with Oh My Sweet Carolina being my favorite. Still there's enough strong songs that keep the album interesting.
My Bloody Valentine
3/5
A bit loud buzzy and blurry. Definitely the wall of sound for the most part with less musical definition and some softer generally incomprehensible lyrics. I think i'd be more into it with it getting into a more specific mood/vibe and then driving with that. The general sound is okay, but a bit boring. Cupid Come is the closest to traditional and what stands out for me.
Lupe Fiasco
4/5
After listening to My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, this album really has a Jr. Kanye vibe to it. Especially tracks like The Emperor's Soundtrack. The album is very sonically interesting... epic at times, with veins of electronic, disco, R&B, rock. It's pretty damn cool. The Instrumental, Kick/Push, Daydreamin' and Emperor's Soundtrack are really awesome. Though it dips in spots, it surprised me and was really enjoyable.
Gillian Welch
3/5
Crafted, but ultimately pretty boring. Revelator is a good start, but the stripped down folky singing just doesn't do much for me. I don't feel the passion so it's fine sounding but doesn't hold my interest. I Dream a Highway was also decent, but not enough to carry a 14 minute song.
The Thrills
3/5
Interesting for an Irish alt-pop band to have so many references to California. Very approachable, but nothing too remarkable or catchy.
Wu-Tang Clan
4/5
This is pretty interesting. Though I don't think there are a lot of tracks here that stand out and demand relistens, the whole work is compelling. It is well crafted, well produced, and feels very intentional.
Leftfield
5/5
Though it definitely dips into some experiments that don't always work for me, overall the work solidly hits a vibe for me. It is the style of electronic that i really enjoy if they can get that vibe right and then decorate it to keep it interesting. This was a complete surprise and really really enjoyed it.
Doves
3/5
A cool sonic landscape of alt rock. Firesuite gets it going on a good note, but nothing really elevates it beyond that or stands out for me. Fine.
Kings of Leon
4/5
Definitely a great bar band sound. There are lots of tracks here that are engaging. Really like Red Morning Light, Joe's Head and Holy Roller Novocaine. Really enjoyed.
Ramones
3/5
I like the punk style and pretty much all tracks are good head bobbin’ toe tappin’ energy. I definitely can listen to it from start to finish with no issues, though there really isn’t anything I love. I’d rather listen to Green Day, the clash, talking heads for this vibe. I do smile with how they sing “massacre” for the sake of a rhyme.
The Beta Band
3/5
The genre is in my wheelhouse and the really hit some strong tracks… a bit ethereal and psychedelic alt rock… you’re so wonderful is a good example. It has some slow purposeful drumming that really nails a groove combined with soaring vocals really stand out. However the title of the song is sung in an understated slightly out of tune sound that takes away. This unevenness is the challenge with the album… has some great moments and a lot of potential but doesn’t quite live up to it completely.
Nico
3/5
Neat to hear Nico's voice outside of the Velvet Underground album... i was pretty optimistic after the first two tracks which do well to deliver an introspective and melancholic vibe. Unfortunately it doesn't really seem to go anywhere else and gets a little boring by the end. Interesting.
k.d. lang
3/5
A smoky sultry slow country vibe with the occasional no-fear tempo increase with a honkytonk flair. She has a great voice and everything is very approachable, but I don’t find any of the tracks really have a hook for me and it gets a little boring by the end. Fine.
The Dandy Warhols
5/5
Pretty surprised how much i enjoyed this... has the clear alt. rock vibe but it is pretty interesting in that it has some pretty straightforward songs but also delves into sonic landscapes that are engaging (maybe Pete's Airport is a bit of a lowlight). I found myself liking it more and more on subsequent listens... it is varied enough that it stays fun and engaging for the whole album.
The Only Ones
3/5
Completely serviceable British rock-punk vibe. It still holds up pretty well for being a late 70's release. The opener, The Whole of the Law and the next track, Another Girl, Another Planet are really a strong duo, showcasing both a quieter measured delivery as well as a track with a lot more energy (good guitar riff on that too). The album is bit uneven after that but still enjoyable.
Cocteau Twins
4/5
It is dreamy, ethereal and interesting. I struggle an amazing amount understanding any of their lyrics, but the electronic layered vibe is great. I enjoy the mood and its really immersive with headphones. Loved it.
The Magnetic Fields
3/5
Unnecessary. Like, why?!?? I’ll say it is impressive that someone can assemble 69 songs and a majority of them are entirely pleasant. You might get an occasional smile from an unexpected lyric, but there’s nothing that you are rushing to anyone with “You gotta HEAR THIS!!!” And there are some definite clunkers (love is like jazz, Washington DC, kiss me like you mean it, I shatter, kings, strange eyes, zebra). But overall, the number of decent songs gives it a pass in my book… one of the more difficult trials clocking in at nearly 3 hours.
Mott The Hoople
4/5
Totally surprisingly. Its a little David Bowie, Alice Cooper, T-Rex wrapped up in well produced/layered rock that has both a flair for being sonically interesting as well as easy to approach. Its successful across a good change in tempos (Whizz Kid to Ballad of Mott the Hoople), and i'm particularly impressed that the song is good enough for me to ignore that it is titled Honaloochie Boogie.
Dr. Dre
4/5
Certainly not an album for polite company, however it is visceral and paints a pretty compelling west coast gangsta rap picture. Though i'm not a skit fan, the tracks are strong with Nothing but a g thang being absolute stellar. Though not all the topics are my favorite, it is well crafted and engaging.
Einstürzende Neubauten
2/5
I think i have a good idea of who to call for a soundtrack if i'm filming (a) a transylvania based blair witch trial, (b) a dark horrow version of Run Lola Run or (c) an artsy Nazi snuff film. I loved the fact that the liner notes attribute a contribution of "noises" on the album. It's decent at times, Kollaps is pretty good, but its a bit of a tough listen and not sure how it would fit into something you want to listen to multiple times. Interesting to experience.
Coldcut
2/5
Really struggled through this... the 80's DJ scratchy, repeating samples, with either hip hop salt n pepa vibes or corny electronic beats is really tough to make it through. My Telephone was almost passable, but that was the high point for me.
Blood, Sweat & Tears
1/5
I think this is my krytponite. Its dated, has organ noodling and then some jazzy percussion that is supposed to be compelling. I won't deny that spinning wheel has a hook but all the other tracks are lost. Nothing i want to listen to again here.
King Crimson
2/5
We were definitely in a bit of trouble with 21st Century (though this is how i learned where the Kanye West sample for MBDTF came from... call me ignorant). Still that track had its own prog rock adventure that set it back quite a bit. Epitaph was a bit of a redeemer, but on a whole, its more of a tolerate than enjoy with the occasional prog rock noodling detours.
The Good, The Bad & The Queen
4/5
I didn't realize i enjoyed Damon Albarn's voice so much. Though I'm not particularly a Blur or Gorillaz fan, when he hits the tracks right (The Narcissist), they just hit, in his weird talking, not always melodic delivery. This album is pretty solid with the way that works for me... the first 5 tracks are stellar, with Northern Whale working best for me. A very enjoyable find.
XTC
4/5
I owned this album in college and certainly enjoyed XTC, so it is comfortable for me to ease back into this clearly british nerd alt rock. Earn Enough is truly pop and Dear God is pretty bold and creative, though the rest of the tracks do their own interesting exploration. Mermaid Smiled is the only skip for me, though Grass is a little boring. There is a ton of variety here that keeps the listening interesting.
New Order
5/5
I've felt that New Order songs are always very hard to remember the track names. Though i haven't scrutinized the lyrics, i have the impression that they never reference the song title actually in the song. This holds here... i have no idea what any of the song names are, but other than being about 20% too 80's synthy, i really enjoy the entire album start to finish. easily approachable and fun.
Shack
3/5
Completely fine, kinda fun, british alt-pop sound. They are a little cheeky, and have (to me) a Fountains of Wayne vibe. Nothing smashing, but a decent listen. Enjoyable.
Ministry
3/5
This one is a bit up and down. They really deliver some energetic, hateful, angry, driving beats... though it also gets interspersed with more experimental sections and spoken verse. Just One Fix does the best to hit the mood but there is a lot of attention getting pieces here. An engaging listen for the right mood.
Mekons
2/5
Disappointed. Though the alt-rock alt-country-rock vibe works for me, it is the vocal delivery... whether done as a semi-melodic spoken piece or shouty half-melodic track, it does more to take away from the music. Didn't find much to latch onto.
2/5
For the most part it is a bit of the female empowerment formula with slow old school country... certainly a heavy country slant of the "these boots were made for walking" tone. Loretta's voice is nice, but the subject matter feels cliched without being too interesting.
1/5
Whoah. This is pretty awesome... i don't believe i've heard anything like it. Though phrases like "free jazz" or "thrash jazz" already kind of get me to what i'm likely to make out of it. As everything is saying, this is some challenging music, and i'm going to end up on the side that says it doesn't work for me. I feel like there is about 25% of the time that if you even isolated a single instrument (particularly the saxes and rums) that you would even want to listen to that single instrument. And then they take all 5 instruments (sax, sax, drums drums, bass) and mass them together... and you get this. I will say that i appreciated listening to it, definitely an experience expansion for me.
I love someone's comment about what would happen if you casually dropped this on your playlist while driving in a car with someone. To me it just highlight the stressful nature of this music... i feel confident that if Peace Warriors suddenly became the U.S. national anthem, there would be sudden increase in the number of stabbings across the country.
The Byrds
3/5
A bit boring, but very serviceable Byrds pop rock from the 60's. There's nothing controversial or offensive, though it's a bit dated, and there's only a couple tracks that are strong (Goin' Back and Natural Harmony).
Jacques Brel
3/5
Okay, i'm not entirely sure what i'm listening to, but the crazy over-the-top theatrical french frank sinatra vibe has me smiling and chuckling most of the way through. There are definitely some "whoah" moments where it gets a bit too much, but the energy and attitude are engaging.
Ash
3/5
For me this has a Teenage Fanclub vibe at its best, but then also turns a corner quite a bit and goes quite a bit harder (though I'm not sure it serves them well). They don't quite make the heavy angst work for them (which does end up working for bands like the Smashing Pumpkins). Goldfinger and Oh Yeah are the standouts for me.
Rufus Wainwright
3/5
The vibe is promising, but the only song that stands out for me is Go or Go Ahead, which seems to have a Thom Yorke vocal edge. It smooth and very easy to approach, but gets a little boring.
LTJ Bukem
2/5
The issue here is that it is just boring. If you're doing EDM music, i feel like you need to catch a vibe that drives and engages the listener. This is repetitive and uncaptivating. It's pretty surprising that there is something this so high tempo and beat crazy that is truly uninteresting. Nothing unlistenable, but it gets the fail because by the end you don't even care.
The Associates
3/5
This was a pretty challenging and interesting listen. It has a theatrical energy, with a style mix that seems to blend David Bowie-Roxy Music-Depeche Mode-Simple Minds vibes. There are some less successful tracks that get a bit irritating (Bap De La Bap, Nude Spoons), but others that deliver a good emotion and energy (It's Better This Way, Gloomy Sunday). Their use of electronic synth sound is definitely trapped in the 80's, but isn't too tragic.
a-ha
3/5
I feel like this is what you'd get as AI generated keyboard/synth smooth pop with an 80's flair for electronic beats. Take On Me does stand out above the rest, but also suffer from a common problem on these tracks as it seems like most of the song is just repeating the title over and over again. Doesn't feel like there's a lot of depth here, but it is easily approachable and melodic. Most of it is pretty forgettable, but fine.
Elvis Costello
5/5
A pretty amazing collection of crafted angsty punk with pop sensibilities. Engaging lyrics and Elvis' delivery is sneery and gives what is singer-songwriter level content a great punch. There not a bad song on the album, with lots of catchy hooks and great variety.
Sugar
4/5
This was a pretty cool surprise. I was a Husker Du and Bob Mould fan in college, but lost track of him after workbook. This is the same echo vocally vibe of husker du, with a bit cleaner and more consistently melodic approach. Really enjoyed Hoover Dam and Slim.
Silver Jews
3/5
It has a "I'm a clever songwriter" feel that i get with Father John Misty and Crash Test Dummies, though with a bit more country vibe. The songs are decent and easily approachable, though the "clever" doesn't hit for me too strongly.
Throwing Muses
4/5
Love this. Singer's voice is great with the buzzy hard alt rock edge. Even the songs that are a bit challenging at first grow on me and i like the energy and noise delivered. Really enjoyed Epiphany and Portia, but good all the way through.
Joanna Newsom
4/5
Once past her quirky voice, the album is entirely fascinating. Dense lyrical storytelling which amazingly doesn't get too overwhelming because the music is well varied... at times, subtle, epic and magical. Her delivery also doesn't get trapped in a single boring approach, and you begin to soar when her and the music begins to soar. I can definitely see going to back to this multiple times to attempt to continue to unwrap a really interesting package.
Led Zeppelin
5/5
What is amazing is that songs like Black Dog and Rock & Roll are kinda boring now… they are absolutely classic, but I don’t get excited about listening to them. The thing that is great is that the rest of this album is so varied different creative and engaging. Evermore, Four Sticks, Going to California and Levee Breaks are all still incredible. The groove/drums in Levee are just so compelling. Fantastic.
Skepta
2/5
Wrong time for this. This rap style is just irritating to me. It did have some interesting accompanying music at times, but the vocal delivery was a strong turn off. Pass on this.
Jane Weaver
3/5
A bit up and down. A waifish vocal with a psych-electrónica vibe. Tracks like slow motion, I wish and kosmology are strongest with a more driving sound. Interesting.