We have arrived at my pick! I was hoping it would be before the end of the year since Apple told me this was the first album I listened to this year. I spent years, as we listened through this list, thinking about what album I would choose. For a long time I had my sights set on Linkin Park's Reanimation, other days I was thinking of Aya Nakamura's Nakamura. I settled on this album, I think because it had a sort of renaissance with me this year. Back when I was in middle school, I was introduced to a lot of metal and hard rock by some friends. We were starting to play football (go Gunter Tigers) and we needed pump up music. At one point I had picked up the first Headbanger's Ball CD that had a song called Fixation on the Darkness and the irony is that it was the version Howard sung after he took over lead vocals for the band, after this chosen album. Either way, something about that song hooked me and so I scoured ebay on our dial up connection out on the country and ordered a copy of this album not knowing anything more about it than that singular song. For me, this album was a shock of lightning and transcended any need for pump up music during workouts. It did still provide that service, but it was very early on that I started noticing something different about this album from other metal/hard rock. The lyrics were incredibly heartfelt and positive. Quite the juxtaposition from other bands I was obsessed with like Ill Nino and Slipknot (also ones I considered picking). I remember I had also ordered Iowa by Slipknot and my parents made me play that album in front of them. Luckily, the first track had no real lyrics beyond Corey Taylor moaning like he was rotting in dirt and I was able to brush my parents off before the real tracks like People = Shit came on. With this album, I was actively trying to get them to listen, not just for the lyrics, but they even had an instrumental song on here that was incredibly touching and we ended up using for a cousins funeral. So when almost twenty years have passed and I'm still headbanging to an album, still mumbling the lyrics as I walk or get myself pumped up, I think that is a good enough reason to add this. My only hope is that one other person finds this and listens to those lyrics too. With all of that said, let me dive in. Numbered Days: Who doesn't want a song hearing about ancient Babylon and the excess within and how people can break away from persecution and delusion to sever a solution. "Arms raised, eyes gaze, tongues of fire whisper. This life will soon slip away." A caution to that excess and control people in power tend to pursue. Self Revolution: One of my favorites on the album. I felt like I woke up when I heard this song, and it has carried me for year. Again, it's one thing to hear revolution through the lense of other genres, but to have it shouted with heavy guitars and drums is another. I can only wonder if this was in response to 9/11 because there is never any specificity in these songs, more a general frustration with the status quo. "I can't comprehend society's movement, the regression of human existence....slow down the fast paced world and you will see past the illusion. Building a revolution to heal nations, it starts within you." It always starts within you. Fixation on the Darkness: Here's that famed song from Headbanger's Ball. From the "EEEEEOH" at the beginning you know you're in for a treat. "Fixation on the darkness that engulfs this world, drain the life force of our people" Focusing on the darkness is never the answer and certainly not succumbing to it. "Come together inside, this body is only a shell. Change, the only way we will survive. Light transfiguration of the soul, of the mind". Powerful stuff. My Last Serenade: Perhaps my favorite song on the album. Starting with the slow guitar chords that move into a fantastic riff that I can't help but move my body to. A perfect mix of shouting and singing. "Your destination is a choice within yourself, will you rise or become a slave to self righteousness? Open up your heart and gaze within." Life to Lifeless: "There is no darkness without light to teach us of ourselves." I still tap my feet and hands on things to the opening tune of these drums. This was a song I grew into this year because many of these I never truly dove into the lyrics when I was younger beyond what I could hear or get from the insert. This album is also a testament to the idea that while a piece of art cannot change, you do over time so when you re listen or watch things you may see it in a different light. "Death unfolds itself painfully to unmask how fragile we are. The pain drags me down, I'll rebuild me." Standing up after getting knocked down, especially in the face of understanding death and the fragility of life. Just Barely Breathing: The album cover says it all, almost the thesis of this album. "Are we alive, or just breathing?" This song also has a great lead up with the grungy sound that slowly builds up from the depths and then crescendos as the singing starts but by the end recedes back into the abyss. To the Sons of Man: My least favorite song on the album, I think because the screaming is too much, but this is also a really short song. "From dust to dust we will return, the flesh is temporary the soul is eternal." Temple From the Within: This one almost feels religious. "Make me feel serenity when all is revealed. So easy to look back in life and question, but I must seek to find the strength to push forward." The Element of One: Another of my favs. Probably for the slow guitar start that turns into something more. Is this a story about God? I'm not sure, I always looked at it as someone giving their life for someone else, maybe it's Jesus? Who knows. "This is for you, everything I am, this is for you, take it from me." "Breathe me in, I am forever. Deep within I am eternal." Vide Infra: A very paced song that starts of real hot and heavy. A strong message to those in power. "I have opened my eyes to see the world that surrounds me daily. I refuse to be led by the majority." "And I will stand up for who I am, never moved by condemnation. No one is placed higher than another. No matter race or creed or gender. We must teach forgiveness and compassion for all life. Through understanding of our differences we will find respect for one another because we are all flesh and blood." Still a struggle happening today with many groups of people. We must speak up and stay true to ourselves no matter the consequences. Without a Name: Time to sit in silence as we contemplate everything that has come before. The kind of song you'd hear at a memorial or someone looking off into a field of reeds as their loved one moves on. Rise Inside: I love that they saved such a banger for the last song. A true call to action that builds on all the work that has been put in throughout the album. In many ways, this album is a wake up call. It was for me. "Rise inside, free your mind raise your fist to signify we stand in defiance of hatred and deception. If I stand alone, I'll fight for you. The time has come to make a difference, why have we forsaken love? The time has come to raise our voices, so rise up and fight with me." "Hatred is a weakness, you become the victim."

What a surprise. I immediately recognized Look at the Sky from Fortnite and it has me wondering who recommended this album? Huge Porter fan? Fortnite fan? Either way, they made it through 1001 albums and picked this puppy. Always enjoy an electronic album and this was great while driving.

Never listened to the album but Why We Build the Wall is a classic. My brother introduced me to that song. We build the wall to keep us free...powerful stuff. I was shocked to learn the album was from 2010, I would have bet money it was 70's. The whole album is very unique too, lots of folk and jazz. Songs like When the Chips are Down reminded of New Orleans. All in all, very cool someone included this album so I could reminisce about those memories. Also caught Justin Vernon on a couple songs, I believe that is Bon Iver himself.

Each song felt like its own story with unique organization. Some felt like rock, others had pianos and strings. Each was a journey. I wasn’t a fan of them all but this is an awesome conclusion. I know my brother loves this album so he’s going to be happy.

Yesterday I was really stressing about the album that I chose for this list. Part of me wished I had taken a little bit longer to pick one. In my head, if you got one album to pick for a list like this you'd want it to be something unique, maybe not the best album ever, but something you felt people NEED to listen to before they die. I haven't had the best reviews on mine and that had me second guessing things but then I wake up and find that someone chose a live album as their pick. I was also informed by my brother that this particular person gave 1 stars to both of our submitted albums, so now I am in a much better mood! I kind of feel like the guy that showed up well prepared for a test but found the other participants didn't really even study. I want to thank them for lifting the stress off me and helping me to move on.

If this is the caliber of user selected albums then we are in for a treat. Always down for some hard rock emo type music. Great art too, very spooky.

Have we gotten any break type albums on this list?? Pretty wild that the variety only comes from the people listening to this list. This was a good album that had some great beats and songs. It did feel basic in some respects but I think that's just because it's from 1998 so it get's a pass. Now, it is British but I think that enhances this to see that those blokes were attempting some break work too. There is a song from Jet Set Radio Future by the Latch Brothers called "" that starts with them explaining "Four elements: There's DJ'ing, there's Breaking, there's Graffiti, and then there's the MC". We hear a similar list on Breaker Beat's Pt 1 as the announcer advises "there will be breaking, rapping, breaking, scratching, breaking, and graffiti" I thought it was pretty cool they counted all four of those elements, though I didn't hear as much of the MC on this album, lots of samples and call outs. Either way, I'm glad this one was on here!

This was a really good album, lots of ethereal tracks and others that were super short but packed a punch. I still can’t quite place who they remind me of. Hints of Thundercat and Kurangbin.

I'm a fan of these Giants, especially growing up with Malcom in the Middle, but this listen made me realize I think the lead singer voiced some songs on Coraline too which was a staple for me. All that said, there are not a lot of singles I keep from them. This album falls into that, I enjoyed the entire thing and maybe skipped once. Still going strong on the user submissions!

Reminded me faintly of a few other pop singers but the beats and tempo had me bopping on a few of them.

This was a very unique album and knowing a user submitted this makes it even cooler. Some songs didn’t resonate with me but I got lost in others. Very ethereal.

RIP to a legend. Glad he got a place on this list.

Yesterday I was really stressing about the album that I chose for this list. Part of me wished I had taken a little bit longer to pick one. In my head, if you got one album to pick for a list like this you'd want it to be something unique, maybe not the best album ever, but something you felt people NEED to listen to before they die. I haven't had the best reviews on mine and that had me second guessing things but then I wake up and find that someone chose a live album as their pick. I was also informed by my brother that this particular person gave 1 stars to both of our submitted albums, so now I am in a much better mood! I kind of feel like the guy that showed up well prepared for a test but found the other participants didn't really even study. I want to thank them for lifting the stress off me and helping me to move on.

A nice little trip into folk land. Had this album been on the main list, I'd maybe question it's inclusion, but as this is a user pick I think it's very valid and was perfect for this fall day.

Not exactly my type of alternative but it was someone's! No matter the album, even someone who chooses a live album, there's a specialness to these picks. Someone out there wanted people to hear this album because it means something to them. Even an album that's just eh to me, still means more to me than most of the ones we got on the main list.

I'm not sure we got any Buffett on the main list, maybe one, so I'm very glad this is on here. No songs I recognized but I did enjoy Trying to Reason with Hurricane Season. Take me to the beach.

This felt very 90's with the defiant singer songwriter getting angry at things but mixing that with softer melodies. Not bad!

This is one of those bands I’d always heard or saw but never listened to. For some reason I thought they were 60’s rock types but this is their debut! Very folksy not as much rock but it was good. I can’t say I’m a fan but I’m glad someone put this on here.

What a surprise. I immediately recognized Look at the Sky from Fortnite and it has me wondering who recommended this album? Huge Porter fan? Fortnite fan? Either way, they made it through 1001 albums and picked this puppy. Always enjoy an electronic album and this was great while driving.

I first got a streaming service back in 2016, our whole family got on an Apple Music plan and I still remember the feeling of all music at my finger tips. My first goal was to start listening to the newly added music each week and that was when my tastes really expanded. 2016 was an epic year not just because of that, but because so many great albums came out. Solange, Gambino, Metallica, Kanye, Beyonce, Tribe, and many more including this album by Bon Iver. I still don't know what this album means or really what's going on. There are distortions and super short songs, it’s only 30ish minutes. By all accounts I shouldn't like this album, but I do. I've usually just listened all the way through because I can't tell when one song ends or begins but this time I listened to tracks. I kept 22 (over soon), 29 Strafford Apts, 666, and 00000 Million. For all those reasons I'll say it isn't perfect, but here is yet another great pick from these user suggestions. It's probably a 4.5, but remembering those cold days winter days where I had this on in the background at work in an office or driving home. I'll bump that to a five, thanks for the memories.

Great folk album! Felt a little repetitive at moments but the vibe was great and a perfect thanksgiving esque album. Very fall very Swedish.

Another fun folksy album, nothing to write home about but appreciate the addition.

Eels has some hits on the Holes and Shrek soundtracks so this was exciting to hear. Reminds me of There Might Be Giants, just a bunch of quirky songs about bugs and birds and whatnot.

Nice to see a Death Cab album on here, though it didn’t really speak to me.

Really great album, lots of variety but with that slightly electronic vibe. Jazzy and rock at times.

Powerful and moving music, especially reading that he died before this album came out. Glad this was someone's suggestion.

Was not expecting this album but so happy someone chose this!! This was a staple in the house in college that played on the record player. My brother and I got to see him in concert touring for this album and that was an awesome experience. It’s not my favorite of his but it still great and has Sweatpants which is one of my favorite Gambino songs. Favs here are Crawl, Worldstar, Telegraph Ave, Sweatpants, 3005, and Zealots of Stockholm.

I always enjoy a little Reggae and this hit the spot. Truly nothing stood out beyond being reggae, I bet there are many other albums with more oomph or purpose, but someone chose this and I'm sure they have their reasons!

This was a pretty good album! I saw it was one of the first synth albums and that makes it a cool piece of history. I really liked the first song on here, there was a sound that I think was sampled or used on Chris Brown's Look at Me Now.

This was a quirky little album, kind of all over the place but not bad!

Each song felt like its own story with unique organization. Some felt like rock, others had pianos and strings. Each was a journey. I wasn’t a fan of them all but this is an awesome conclusion. I know my brother loves this album so he’s going to be happy.

I could have sworn we got this on the list but we didn’t so this was is another great addition. All the classics are on here, Devil Inside, Need You Tonight, and Never Tear Us Apart. I also really enjoyed New Sensation.

Sounded a lot like REM. Some good tracks on there though I skipped a few as well.

This reminded me of Charlie XCX at times, at others I felt like I was in a Fortnite match. Also pretty wild that the UHC Murder suspect was caught yesterday and we get The Most Wanted Person In The United States. This list always seems to sync up with reality. At less than 30 minutes and some truly zaney tracks, this was a unique inclusion. Especially for coming out last year. Someone must really love this album.

I struggled to enjoy this album, but other times I got caught up in it. I am, however, a huge fan of them putting the runtime on the album cover. But yes, I would prefer an astronaut.

Wow, three tracks at an hour. That's impressive. I've seen their name before but haven't listened to any and I'm not sure I would. Not bad, but three long songs that are mostly ambient. Maybe I set my expectations wrong on this one but was thinking there would be a "band" presence. Not sure why, but hey I'm glad I got to listen to them finally.

Always happy when we can get more jazz on this list. I'm not sure I've heard Chet before but I think I've heard his name. This was very classic and relaxing. Great to wake up to on a cold winter day.

Short and sweet. Almost a kind of Latin rock.

Didn’t we get enough English rock bands in the main list?

Woah, big album today...for my brother! This was his pick and I'm glad he included it! I've heard him mention this album and how it got leaked a long time ago and then eventually made it's way out for real. Very unique and sort of conceptual in that most of the songs feel like demos and are listed as (unfinished). I can't wait to hear his much longer explanation for his inclusion here but I think this is a good pick especially with all the other albums we have gotten.

This was a cool rap debut! Always looking for more UK rappers.

It had hints of something but I couldn’t figure out what. I did like the idea of it being a concept album.

Working on some stand up material here. These guys felt a lot like U2 but I also liked them better than U2 (untalented two). Maybe they should have called themselves T2 which would have worked out with the movie coming out only a few years earlier. But sometimes people in the UK have no idea what’s going on across the pond. Their terminator probably said something like “I Shall Return”. The irony is that I planned to write some material on their name. What even is Marillion? Perhaps a number beyond a trillion? I did a little googling and it’s after Silmarillion, the Lord of the Rings book detailing the first and second ages, currently being adapted at Amazon. I’ve heard the production of the show was very expensive, some of the most expensive TV ever made. Something like a marillion dollars. These are fresh bits cooked up in the lab. Feel free to riff, there’s a lot to be mined with an hour and 40 minutes of music.

A very calming album though the songs started to blend together. I can see why someone would add this.

Two things can be true: I can see why someone would add this and I did not like this at all.

We have arrived at my pick! I was hoping it would be before the end of the year since Apple told me this was the first album I listened to this year. I spent years, as we listened through this list, thinking about what album I would choose. For a long time I had my sights set on Linkin Park's Reanimation, other days I was thinking of Aya Nakamura's Nakamura. I settled on this album, I think because it had a sort of renaissance with me this year. Back when I was in middle school, I was introduced to a lot of metal and hard rock by some friends. We were starting to play football (go Gunter Tigers) and we needed pump up music. At one point I had picked up the first Headbanger's Ball CD that had a song called Fixation on the Darkness and the irony is that it was the version Howard sung after he took over lead vocals for the band, after this chosen album. Either way, something about that song hooked me and so I scoured ebay on our dial up connection out on the country and ordered a copy of this album not knowing anything more about it than that singular song. For me, this album was a shock of lightning and transcended any need for pump up music during workouts. It did still provide that service, but it was very early on that I started noticing something different about this album from other metal/hard rock. The lyrics were incredibly heartfelt and positive. Quite the juxtaposition from other bands I was obsessed with like Ill Nino and Slipknot (also ones I considered picking). I remember I had also ordered Iowa by Slipknot and my parents made me play that album in front of them. Luckily, the first track had no real lyrics beyond Corey Taylor moaning like he was rotting in dirt and I was able to brush my parents off before the real tracks like People = Shit came on. With this album, I was actively trying to get them to listen, not just for the lyrics, but they even had an instrumental song on here that was incredibly touching and we ended up using for a cousins funeral. So when almost twenty years have passed and I'm still headbanging to an album, still mumbling the lyrics as I walk or get myself pumped up, I think that is a good enough reason to add this. My only hope is that one other person finds this and listens to those lyrics too. With all of that said, let me dive in. Numbered Days: Who doesn't want a song hearing about ancient Babylon and the excess within and how people can break away from persecution and delusion to sever a solution. "Arms raised, eyes gaze, tongues of fire whisper. This life will soon slip away." A caution to that excess and control people in power tend to pursue. Self Revolution: One of my favorites on the album. I felt like I woke up when I heard this song, and it has carried me for year. Again, it's one thing to hear revolution through the lense of other genres, but to have it shouted with heavy guitars and drums is another. I can only wonder if this was in response to 9/11 because there is never any specificity in these songs, more a general frustration with the status quo. "I can't comprehend society's movement, the regression of human existence....slow down the fast paced world and you will see past the illusion. Building a revolution to heal nations, it starts within you." It always starts within you. Fixation on the Darkness: Here's that famed song from Headbanger's Ball. From the "EEEEEOH" at the beginning you know you're in for a treat. "Fixation on the darkness that engulfs this world, drain the life force of our people" Focusing on the darkness is never the answer and certainly not succumbing to it. "Come together inside, this body is only a shell. Change, the only way we will survive. Light transfiguration of the soul, of the mind". Powerful stuff. My Last Serenade: Perhaps my favorite song on the album. Starting with the slow guitar chords that move into a fantastic riff that I can't help but move my body to. A perfect mix of shouting and singing. "Your destination is a choice within yourself, will you rise or become a slave to self righteousness? Open up your heart and gaze within." Life to Lifeless: "There is no darkness without light to teach us of ourselves." I still tap my feet and hands on things to the opening tune of these drums. This was a song I grew into this year because many of these I never truly dove into the lyrics when I was younger beyond what I could hear or get from the insert. This album is also a testament to the idea that while a piece of art cannot change, you do over time so when you re listen or watch things you may see it in a different light. "Death unfolds itself painfully to unmask how fragile we are. The pain drags me down, I'll rebuild me." Standing up after getting knocked down, especially in the face of understanding death and the fragility of life. Just Barely Breathing: The album cover says it all, almost the thesis of this album. "Are we alive, or just breathing?" This song also has a great lead up with the grungy sound that slowly builds up from the depths and then crescendos as the singing starts but by the end recedes back into the abyss. To the Sons of Man: My least favorite song on the album, I think because the screaming is too much, but this is also a really short song. "From dust to dust we will return, the flesh is temporary the soul is eternal." Temple From the Within: This one almost feels religious. "Make me feel serenity when all is revealed. So easy to look back in life and question, but I must seek to find the strength to push forward." The Element of One: Another of my favs. Probably for the slow guitar start that turns into something more. Is this a story about God? I'm not sure, I always looked at it as someone giving their life for someone else, maybe it's Jesus? Who knows. "This is for you, everything I am, this is for you, take it from me." "Breathe me in, I am forever. Deep within I am eternal." Vide Infra: A very paced song that starts of real hot and heavy. A strong message to those in power. "I have opened my eyes to see the world that surrounds me daily. I refuse to be led by the majority." "And I will stand up for who I am, never moved by condemnation. No one is placed higher than another. No matter race or creed or gender. We must teach forgiveness and compassion for all life. Through understanding of our differences we will find respect for one another because we are all flesh and blood." Still a struggle happening today with many groups of people. We must speak up and stay true to ourselves no matter the consequences. Without a Name: Time to sit in silence as we contemplate everything that has come before. The kind of song you'd hear at a memorial or someone looking off into a field of reeds as their loved one moves on. Rise Inside: I love that they saved such a banger for the last song. A true call to action that builds on all the work that has been put in throughout the album. In many ways, this album is a wake up call. It was for me. "Rise inside, free your mind raise your fist to signify we stand in defiance of hatred and deception. If I stand alone, I'll fight for you. The time has come to make a difference, why have we forsaken love? The time has come to raise our voices, so rise up and fight with me." "Hatred is a weakness, you become the victim."

Always love a little EWF! I know I’ve heard Boogie Wonderland in some movies before too. Great album cover!

Interesting album choice, I was not a huge fan as it felt like a lot of the same guitar strumming acoustics.

I've really wanted to be the guy that likes the Arctic Monkeys. I tried really hard on the album that had "I bet you look good on the dancefloor", a song I like, but I just can't get into them. I think this is our third album of theirs and it hasn't hit yet.

Always happy to get some Jazz and these Louis tracks were a fun throwback. Really could feel the age on them compared to some other albums.

Interesting alternative album! I enjoyed the guitars and drums, vocals weren’t bad either.

This was a really fun album, some genre bending but overall a fun latin album. Kept El Ciclon and Ixtepec.

Almost felt like listening to a distorted ham radio and I wasn't the biggest fan of that.

Is not often a metal album will stretch the full 80mins of a cd so this was impressive. I haven’t dove into tool before but I enjoyed it as I was organizing documents. Sounded a bit like Chevelle.

Fun French pop! No complaints.

More scripture for the testament that 2016 was an epic music year. So happy someone chose this as their album. I'm currently using a ranking engine to determine my top 100 albums and this is number 24 (always subject to change but that was based on an average of four rounds of 1v1 rapid fire). Childish had already proven who he was with Camp and Because the Internet , not to mention the freaks and geeks mixtape. This felt so out of left field and in some ways felt like a super hero revealing another power mid fight. Ludwig Goransson worked with him on this album too and this was right before he did Black Panther. The funk is strong with this album and there is a capturing of that timeless R&B sound prevalent on songs like California and Boogieman. It feels like the soundtrack to some afrofuturistic dystopian zombie movie. Also how about that album cover! I think Miles Davis would say it is his kind of blue.

Very cool album, sad at times but powerful too.

Is this our first Blink album? It’s a doozy. So many hits on here and crazy they took a break after this. This album or at least the songs within were a staple while I was in college. I recently listened to it to see if it fit in my 100 and it didn’t make the cut but I’d say it’s in 200 for sure. I love Feeling This, I Miss You, Violence, Down, Always, All of This, and Lost Without You.

Interesting instrumental ambient type album. Listed as rock but I certainly wouldn’t classify it as such. I liked it!

Kinda felt like some singer/songwriter type stuff, inching into Tom Waits territory singing about random things.

This was an interesting album! I'm growing into a Zappa fan slowly but surely.

Was waiting for some Seger! Hollywood Nights is pure GTA and didn’t realize he did Old Time Rock and Roll.

I’d love to see some data on how many UK bands made rock albums in the 60’s after doing acid and buying a setar. I have no problem with psychedelic rock and enjoyed this album, it just feels like the generic pop album of the 2000’s. They all thought they were being original and out there yet all ended up sounding the same.

Swedish music set to a video game score. Very cool!

Tommy the Cat is one of those songs that’s always in my head, either humming and thumping the baseline or imitating the unique vocals. Im also SHOCKED that the raspy cat vocals were Tom Waits, he somehow manages to claw his way back into my consciousness. I didn’t find myself connecting to many of the others on here but I’m glad we can say this made the list!

Never listened to the album but Why We Build the Wall is a classic. My brother introduced me to that song. We build the wall to keep us free...powerful stuff. I was shocked to learn the album was from 2010, I would have bet money it was 70's. The whole album is very unique too, lots of folk and jazz. Songs like When the Chips are Down reminded of New Orleans. All in all, very cool someone included this album so I could reminisce about those memories. Also caught Justin Vernon on a couple songs, I believe that is Bon Iver himself.

Interesting album, like if Tom Waits did rock but wasn't as creepy. Not bad.

Interesting alternative album, kind of felt like some others we have heard but I had it on in the background and only skipped a few.

A nice singer songwriter album. Not sure I would have chosen this but someone did and that must mean something.

Answers Me is the sample/beginning on 30 Hours!! Cool to catch that.

Felt like a nice 90’s rock album

Been really enjoying this type of rock from the early 90’s

Very creepy and weird album but that first song was metal as hell.

Felt like an early 2000's punk rock album, yet it came out in 2016.

Very cool concept album, and even cooler album cover. This was a fun one to listen to!

Fitting album on the same day Emilia Perez was nominated for way too many Oscars (I'm sure I'll be hearing about this from my mom). Also the same week that Trans people have had rights already taken away under the new administration that is more concerned with the handful of trans people in sports than the high prices most Americans are feeling. My heart goes out to this community that, for the most part, just wants to exist like everyone else and is being used as a tool to confuse people who don't understand science or the human experience. I'm glad to see, however, another great trans artist here. This was a really fun album with great beats and vocals. I'm very glad this album was suggested on the list.

Real nice rock album, classic anti establishment

Really enjoyed this one, felt a bit like fall but just a nice sort of quieter rock/alternative.

Very cool rap album, I feel like I've heard of Gibbs from my brother but can't be sure. Great addition.

Meant to Life and Dare You to Move are classics from middle school but I had no idea this was a Christian album! Very interesting. Another fun addition.

Ladies and Gentleman, the Weeknd. So many bangers on here! I remember right before this came out, I had flown back from a work trip in Columbus and found out my wife basically had one of the very early instances of Covid (this was mid December 2019 and there would have been no way to know but all the symptoms, very high fever etc). When I arrived she looked sick as a dog but somehow had enough energy to do a dance to this new single, Blinding Lights. The beat was infectious and I started dancing too. I think about that every time I hear that song. There’s some other greats on here too like Hardest to Love, Scared to Live, Heartless, and Save Your Tears. I was never sold on the entire album, but it’s still a great one.

Poor Avicii, I can’t remember how he died but I always think about the line “I took a pill in Ibeza to show Avicii I was cool”. I enjoyed listening there were some really unique songs in here.

An interesting folksy type alternative album but nothing really stuck with me. I'm digging the album cover though, very cool shot.

Enjoyed this one! New Person I’ve heard a bunch but can’t think of where, I know my brother had a hand in it. The Less I Know the Better and Past Lives were also great. I didn’t love every song but enjoyed the album overall.

Between the cover and the songs, there were so many moments I slipped and thought this was a children's album. Songs to sing to kids, the way it all feels very sing songy and calm. However when you start your album trying to prevent a marriage through carnal persuasion it's pretty clear this is not an album for kids. Not sure if that was the intention, and even though I wasn't a fan of most of them, I did appreciate the album. Again, I felt at peace listening.

Eh, nothing really stood out on this one. Kind of a middle of the road type album but at least someone liked it enough to put it on here.

Now this is a real chicken and egg situation. One of the greatest soundtracks out there, Jet Set Radio Future, has a track called The Answer with the same beat and samples as this albums The Answer. I'm not sure if JSRF is the remix or if this one is but either way it was exciting to hear that one on here! Overall this was a really nice variety of an album, not necessarily unique in design but the songs were different enough. I liked it!

More semi Pink Floyd goodness. Had no idea about this album, love the concept and enjoyed the ride.

Great addition! I’ll always remember my brother 100%ing My Name is Jonas on Guitar Hero 3. Say it Ain’t So and Buddy Holly are classics too. This album came out a day before my 3rd birthday I noticed.

Not so sure about this one, almost like if Tom Waits grew a spine and decided to try out heavier rock.

This was an awesome southern rock album, I kept quite a few songs.

I've always been a Parsons fan, especially growing up near Chicago and hearing Sirius so much. I'd never heard this album before and this feels like another concept album, and a concept I'm a huge fan of. Edgar Allen Poe! Very interesting composition between the songs with vocals and others that were more atmospheric. Another great suggestion!

Not a bad album. I wonder why a newer UK rock band deserved to be on this list but then I remembered this portion of the list is subjective. Carry on.

Have we gotten a Gizzard Lizard Wizard album before? I really liked the opening song, reminded me of a video game or show theme. The rest of the songs quickly started blending together, though, with that rough guitar.

Pretty fun ska album. These always remind me of skateboarding.

I don't know what it is with punk bands and the super short songs over a span of so many tracks that all kind of sound the same. I always picture myself in a grunge basement or some very tiny venue with a group just rocking out.

There were a few songs on here that really showed just how many other bands emulated the work. I love Slipknot, and I could tell they pulled some of their gutteral guitars, clanging on things, just the general grunge type feel. It's one of those things that can work for everyone though I'd argue Slipknot did it better. Regardless, this is a watershed album and I'm glad someone suggested it.

This was a pleasant surprise and super fun to listen to!

I know Phish is known for their concerts but that doesn’t mean they need to be on this list.

I think the most surprising thing about this album is that Roadrunner Records was around in 1995. One of my favorite labels.

Very interesting album! Like jazz and funk and some alternative and almost score type music but then every song ended with applause so did I get tricked into listening to a live album?

I like the album, I’m not a huge fan but there’s pieces I enjoyed. I can’t remember if we got a Vamp album on the main list but this feels like one of their better albums.

Awesome inclusion! My favorite Mayer album. I certainly enjoy every song on here and this captured a moment in time when we had recently moved to Colorado and we had used a few songs on here for a “go to sleep” cd I had made or listening to it in the car driving in the snow. There is a lot of depth to the songs but I’ve always seen it as a very light album. Truly something you could fall asleep to. It’s comforting despite some of the topics being about less comfortable subjects.

Very cool soul/jazz album. Saved a few from here and really enjoyed the fusion.

A key emo album, it’s stated. I don’t know about that but it all sounded the same and felt more like light punk or something.

This felt like the British Norah Jones and made me wonder if she plays a lot in coffee shops across the UK.

I am shocked and delighted to see this album on this list. This was the talk of the town last year as people everywhere succumbed to the siren song that is Chappell. I coached some interns through a project last summer and one of them showed me the "Hot To Go" cheer leader type routine. My wife, funny enough, was showing me things like Pink Pony club before she even broke through to the masses. If anything, last year was dedicated to her. It's pop, it's fresh, and it's catchy. What more do you want from a Midwest Princess? Favs: Femininomenon, Red Wine Supernova, After Midnight, Super Graphic Ultra Modern Girl, Hot To Go, My Kink is Karma, Pink Pony Club.

Never been an Amos fan but she’s alright. It was a fine 90’s singer songwriter type album.

Sounded a lot like the small band that plays at a bar late at night in a small town. That can be a good or a bad thing depending on the mood.

Not bad! Cool little modern funk album.

Intentionally low quality sound? That’s the excuse they went with? And the studio believed them? Dude had busted equipment and needed a paycheck fast. May need to confirm with Elong Mah if tambourine head lady is doing a Roman salute.

Couldn't listen to this one except for a few remixes which were great but I can't properly assess.

These songs felt like the intro to cartoons like Courage the Cowardly Dog and Invader Zim. Very quirky and toe tapping.

Great album, I love this band it is perfect relaxation music. Reminds me of road trips and laying outside and camping.

Beautiful as always. Sufjan has a way with his whispy music and ghostly vocals. I can't even begin to compare this to the other albums of his but safe to say this was great.

Keep the Doom coming!! It’s doomsday baby!

I can’t diss them too much since Neyla Pekarek went to the same college as my brother and I and their hit song came out while we were at that college. I was never a huge fan beyond the one song and this album didn’t change my mind. I would have loved a cleopatra theme to this album but it didn’t feel like that at all which was a bummer.

Pretty decent rock band, there were a few on here I liked, Midlife Crisis and Everything’s Ruined.

This was an easy listen but I can’t say it was too memorable.

Very interesting album, not sure I’m a fan but I’m glad I got to hear it.

There were some songs here I enjoyed and others that were in one ear and out the other. I don’t think we have gotten a lot of Canadian bands so that part was nice.

Great album by itself but certainly enhanced through Drive’s use of Tick of the Clock. Still wild the main version is 15 mins. Very versatile album and artist. Some great electronic instrumentals and others with vocals. Love the album cover too.

Even the way he looks in the cover makes me think this is the kind of guy who is very excited to be able to say some of the words he says in this album again now that Trump is in office (he sure likes saying pussy!). The irony, of course, is this guy is Australian. Beyond his attempts at being edgy, this was a good album. I feel like I've heard this guy before but can't place where. Maybe Empire of the Sun's "Walking on a Dream". Is it the same guy? Who knows but he is clearly being swamped by fans in his cover.

This was a fun one, kind of like Chromatics with some instrumental and others with vocals and some guests. Good beats and glad to see some Italian representation!

This must have been an album played a bunch when someone was growing up because I'm not sure why else it would be here. Nothing bad, just a basic late 80's pop album. It doesn't move the needle any which way but it has that 80's charm.

Maybe I’m missing something but this just felt like a 90’s rock album.

Did we get any garbage on the main list? I mean beyond the live albums and other stinkers? That’s a little list humor. This had that late 90’s charm that reminded me of the background music in certain TV shows. Hard to explain but it was a vibe.

This one didn’t move the needle any which way for me. I respect all picks, but disagree.

Short and sweet debut. Felt very minimal all around which was interesting.

Great album, easy to listen to, not too long. Glad this was on here!

This was a pretty good metal album! I’d have probably been into this more when it came out but always happy to get a metal album, great addition.

This was awesome. Perfect blend of metal and orchestral. Will be adding a few of these to the rotation.

Very fun album, I particularly liked Face Behind Her Cigarette.

Almost felt like a classic rock album, like some 60’s type rock. Very interesting sound.

I'd say "Nice lil folksy album" but the damn thing was 80 minutes. If I was around a campfire as these creatures are, I'd probably speak up after like 20 minutes at least to allow for a break so we can just sit and stare at the fire or maybe talk and tell ghost stories.

Glad I can take the day off, why are people submitting live albums?? That's the equivalent of 1001 paintings to view before you die and someone is submitting printed versions of the original.

A cool J-Pop album! It was in the compilations section of the artist on Apple so not sure if this is a best of or if apple just screwed up. But enjoyed it!

Pretty good rock album! Crisp and great vocals. The thunder down under or something like that.

This is the only album by this band and for some reason their name has rattled around my brain forever. Maybe it was just the idea of Going Postal...or maybe it was a band called Going Postal? Either way, here it is and it was a really good album! Reminded me a bit of like Sufjan Stevens or Owl City in the vocals and sounds.

Pretty fun rock album!

I enjoyed this album when it came out and didn't have much desire to go back to it, but here it is on this list as someone has deemed this the one album they thing we should all hear. It was just as enjoyable as the first time around.

I enjoy the B-52's and many of their singles but they weren't on this album