1001 Albums Summary

Listening statistics & highlights

Journey Complete!

Finisher # to complete the list

892
Albums Rated
2.88
Average Rating
82%
Complete

Rating Distribution

Rating Timeline

Taste Profile

1970
Favorite Decade
Folk
Favorite Genre
Other
Top Origin ?
Perfectionist
Rater Style ?
18
5-Star Albums
19
1-Star Albums

Breakdown

By Genre

Top Styles

By Decade

By Origin

Albums

You Love More Than Most

AlbumYouGlobalDiff
I Want To See The Bright Lights Tonight
Richard Thompson
5 3.05 +1.95
Closer
Joy Division
5 3.23 +1.77
Astral Weeks
Van Morrison
5 3.25 +1.75
Countdown To Ecstasy
Steely Dan
5 3.29 +1.71
The Köln Concert
Keith Jarrett
5 3.39 +1.61
Pretzel Logic
Steely Dan
5 3.39 +1.61
Odessey And Oracle
The Zombies
5 3.41 +1.59
Third
Soft Machine
4 2.45 +1.55
Five Leaves Left
Nick Drake
5 3.46 +1.54
Aja
Steely Dan
5 3.48 +1.52

You Love Less Than Most

AlbumYouGlobalDiff
Siamese Dream
The Smashing Pumpkins
1 3.83 -2.83
The Marshall Mathers LP
Eminem
1 3.45 -2.45
The Slim Shady LP
Eminem
1 3.27 -2.27
MTV Unplugged In New York
Nirvana
2 4.2 -2.2
Loveless
My Bloody Valentine
1 3.19 -2.19
The Wall
Pink Floyd
2 4.13 -2.13
Rid Of Me
PJ Harvey
1 3.12 -2.12
Led Zeppelin
Led Zeppelin
2 4.07 -2.07
Electric
The Cult
1 3 -2
Vulgar Display Of Power
Pantera
1 2.98 -1.98

Artists

Favorites

ArtistAlbumsAverage
Steely Dan 4 5
Beatles 7 4
Nick Drake 3 4.33

Least Favorites

ArtistAlbumsAverage
Eminem 2 1
The Jesus And Mary Chain 2 1.5
The Smashing Pumpkins 2 1.5

Controversial

ArtistRatings
Paul Simon 5, 2
PJ Harvey 1, 2, 4

5-Star Albums (18)

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Popular Reviews

Loveless by My Bloody Valentine

The sound engineer must have misheard the distortion setting. Everything is mixed so oddly - maybe that's the thing. So what would be the better elements are lost. This is probably dynamic in a live setting with a full stack of amps and the band really getting into foot tapping mode. Overall it's cack.

Closer by Joy Division

I bought this album a day or so after its release. I was aware of the hype around the band and had been impressed by their performances on the radio. But this, this was on another level. A jagged soundscape along a narrow and foreboding route, punctuated with moments of sheer beauty. Altogether way more than the sum of its parts.

Back to Mystery City by Hanoi Rocks

Wondering how this got onto the list. The band was known but never really suggested anything original. For this album the band doesn't seem to know whether it should be rock, not powerful enough or pop, lacking memorable catchy tunes. So it fails on both.

Rapture by Anita Baker

Fine voice. Stylistically vapid.

Not much going for this. A live set on a TV show. No great shakes. But an event happens and it gets elevated to some crazy status the performance does not merit. The unplugged moniker is simply for the franchise, it is merely the band pared down. Some songs work most do not.

1-Star Albums (19)

All Ratings (892)

Born To Run by Bruce Springsteen
Mar 25 2021

Cinemascope at 33rpm.

Apr 02 2021

What a first selection - a double 'live' album. Not really been drawn to TW and previous listening has been cursory, despite my old school mate Rob talking him up big time. Paying a little more attention here there is some neat word play and comedy. You get used to the voice but it was a stretch here.

Aladdin Sane by David Bowie
Apr 05 2021

A few great songs, including my favourite from Bowie, the album's closer. Bought this one rather than it's predecessor on the strength of the two singles.

The Beach Boys Today! by The Beach Boys
Apr 07 2021

Familiar with the singles but not previously aware of the album. More immediately accessible than the 'masterpiece'. Preferred the less bouncy second side.

Either Or by Elliott Smith
Apr 08 2021

Not heard of ES before. He was clearly a fine songwriter. Couldn't really get into this.

Sheet Music by 10cc
Apr 13 2021

Too clever - maybe. But this album is great fun. Playful lyrics, good harmonies and bold chunky guitars.

Armed Forces by Elvis Costello & The Attractions
Apr 14 2021

Too clever - not half pop pickers. It has been many years since I last listened to this album. Feisty when I bought it; it's Elvis!, but just OK now.

Rid Of Me by PJ Harvey
Apr 15 2021

Just after half way something akin to a tune emerged. Otherwise it felt like we had wandered into a forge. May well be better live.

L.A. Woman by The Doors
Apr 16 2021

Most enjoyable. Was aware of the well known songs but had not listened to the whole album before. It hangs together pretty well, so much so that I let it run through a second time.

Purple Rain by Prince
Apr 20 2021

When he's on it he's really on it and on it he is on several here.

The Visitors by ABBA
Apr 23 2021

Of course only familiar with the singles so this was something of surprise. Strong songwriting and production as expected but little that stood out. At times it teetered on musical theatre.

The Doors by The Doors
Apr 26 2021

Opening so soon after another of their creations this doesn't pack the punch it once may have.

Cypress Hill by Cypress Hill
Apr 27 2021

It's bouncy, OK, but otherwise not to my taste

Rock Bottom by Robert Wyatt
Apr 28 2021

Wired and wonderful at times with some exquisite cameos. Studious returns for further listening may discover more.

Murmur by R.E.M.
Apr 29 2021
Rattus Norvegicus by The Stranglers
May 05 2021

Odd band, plenty of misses. Preferred to see them live and this album does capture some of this.

Too Rye Ay by Dexys Midnight Runners
May 06 2021
Illmatic by Nas
May 07 2021

Ouch! Too spikey for me.

Deja Vu by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
May 10 2021
LP1 by FKA twigs
May 12 2021
Bryter Layter by Nick Drake
May 13 2021

I listened to all of his albums recently and this is one I have in my collection. Great song writing. Maybe the strings are a little overdone. Given recent events the forecast is promising.

May 18 2021

The title says it all. Inoffensive at the outset and then became frankly insidious.

Wild Gift by X
May 24 2021

Probably better live.

The Atomic Mr Basie by Count Basie & His Orchestra
May 25 2021

Something of a surprise. I was expecting to have to bail but it kept me interested.

Here Are the Sonics by The Sonics
May 27 2021

Marks for influencing, marks for own compositions but otherwise messy.

Elephant by The White Stripes
May 28 2021

Apart from the opener, not familiar with this band. A mixed bag really.

Faith by George Michael
Jun 02 2021
Can't Buy A Thrill by Steely Dan
Jun 07 2021

Marvellously varied. Super strong song writing.

Thriller by Michael Jackson
Jun 11 2021

Great songs superbly delivered, expertly produced and enlivened by splendid cameos.

Forever Changes by Love
Jun 15 2021

Decent enough sandwich. Bright start and end but a little stodgy in the middle.

Bossanova by Pixies
Jun 17 2021

Liked this. Better than I expected.

Led Zeppelin by Led Zeppelin
Jun 23 2021

The elements are all there but not fully connected.

Life Thru A Lens by Robbie Williams
Jun 24 2021

A curiosity here, trying to work out whether he wants to be the lead singer in a band or a solo artist. The band bits work week. The singles are overblown.

American Pie by Don McLean
Jun 25 2021

Fine collection of songs overwhelmed by the title track.

Songs For Swingin' Lovers! by Frank Sinatra
Jun 29 2021

Lovely album well crafted with fine arrangements to compliment the voice.

Picture Book by Simply Red
Jul 06 2021

This was way better than I expected. I knew the singles but the album was punchy with a very strong groove capped by a fine ,fine singer.

The Clash by The Clash
Jul 09 2021

Definitely of its time. The cover song is the best on the album.

Something/Anything? by Todd Rundgren
Jul 13 2021

Difficult to understand how this made the list. It is too long to be consistent. It works as a record as each side has songs of a similar style. The singles are magnificent and the album shows off his song writing ability and musicianship.

Loveless by My Bloody Valentine
Jul 16 2021

The sound engineer must have misheard the distortion setting. Everything is mixed so oddly - maybe that's the thing. So what would be the better elements are lost. This is probably dynamic in a live setting with a full stack of amps and the band really getting into foot tapping mode. Overall it's cack.

Grace by Jeff Buckley
Jul 19 2021

This was a rather hit and miss. The less shouty ones were better.

Private Dancer by Tina Turner
Jul 21 2021

Some interesting arrangements for the covers which amply showcase the vocal talents. But something just isn't there. Maybe it is that it sounds of the time or that there were plenty of guest producers.

This album should not be on the list. It has been included for apparent historical significance. Plus it was released more than 30 years after the actual event. As to the content it is solid early Dylan showcasing his songwriting of that period. With it being live there is an opportunity to vary the delivery which is at best funny but more often irritating. The electric side is variable and now sounds a little limited. There are some songs where his vocal style works with a band.

Ten by Pearl Jam
Jul 23 2021

Had not heard this album by the band. The usual hallmarks of the band are there, but maybe not as refined as their later work.

Dare! by The Human League
Jul 29 2021
The Rise & Fall by Madness
Jul 30 2021

More depth than the singles but ,while sort of interesting , just doesn't stack up against the house of fun.

On The Beach by Neil Young
Aug 03 2021

Pleasantly surprised. Consistent throughout.

Funeral by Arcade Fire
Aug 10 2021

Had heard one of the tracks before. Sits well within the album which is strong and consistent.

Pacific Ocean Blue by Dennis Wilson
Aug 12 2021

Look what happens when unencumbered. A strong set of songs.

Who's Next by The Who
Aug 13 2021

Strong stuff here. The two well known epics backed up by some interesting songs which show of the versitility of the band.

The Sensual World by Kate Bush
Aug 17 2021

This was the first time listening the album which is consistently strong collection of songs. The range is there, the intricacies but it is missing something.

xx by The xx
Aug 18 2021

Solid start but didn't really progress.

16 Lovers Lane by The Go-Betweens
Aug 19 2021

Jingle jangle stuff. Mildy entertaining. Some nifty riffs.

Moby Grape by Moby Grape
Aug 23 2021

Pretty good mix of songs. Neat guitar interplay. Similar to other bands around at the time but probably a touch off centre to have become very popular.

Aug 24 2021

Coming to this only having heard single it turned out to be varied, maybe overly so. There are several goods songs, the country fusion stands out, but a few that went over the edge making it disjointed.

Surf's Up by The Beach Boys
Aug 26 2021

Steering a long way from the beach here into much deeper water. An interesting move that results in a lyrical win though not always a musical one.

Mama's Gun by Erykah Badu
Aug 27 2021

Didn't pick up on anything here. It just seemed to get into a groove and become stuck there.

Deep Purple In Rock by Deep Purple
Aug 30 2021

This is very in your face. Some fine guitar work. Maybe the model for shrieky vocals which are probably more suited to a live show than a record.

Closer by Joy Division
Aug 31 2021

I bought this album a day or so after its release. I was aware of the hype around the band and had been impressed by their performances on the radio. But this, this was on another level. A jagged soundscape along a narrow and foreboding route, punctuated with moments of sheer beauty. Altogether way more than the sum of its parts.

Whatever by Aimee Mann
Sep 02 2021

Middling, it bobbed along merrily. Would listen again.

Architecture And Morality by Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark
Sep 06 2021

The familiarity of the singles probably keeps them fresh. The general sound of the album and how different it was at the time soon got passed by. Others took it on developed it much further.

Rocks by Aerosmith
Sep 07 2021

Didn't enjoy this. Some good guitar but otherwise nah.

Head Hunters by Herbie Hancock
Sep 09 2021

Solid but just not able to get deep enough into its groove.

Tonight's The Night by Neil Young
Sep 10 2021

Uncomfortably dark. The band did extremely well to hook into the mood.

Zombie by Fela Kuti
Sep 14 2021

Punchy, lively and quite addictive. Given the subject of the album there is only so much railing that can be effective, hence the short running time.

Ananda Shankar by Ananda Shankar
Sep 15 2021

Something of a messy mix here. The covers are quirky. The longer tracks verge on the rambling. Probably best suited to having on in the background.

I'm Your Man by Leonard Cohen
Sep 16 2021

Didn't think the music worked with his presentation style. Lyrically rich with many opportunities for others to cover.

Scott 4 by Scott Walker
Sep 17 2021

Some good songs, a few quirky arrangements.

The Slim Shady LP by Eminem
Sep 20 2021

You say this to me in an affected accent. You say this to me in front of the tired basketball beat. You say this to me with lots of spikey works You go on and on. But I don't want listen any more.

Face to Face by The Kinks
Sep 22 2021

Good collection of songs unfortunately firmly stuck in their time.

E.V.O.L. by Sonic Youth
Sep 23 2021

Liked this.

Everything Must Go by Manic Street Preachers
Sep 27 2021

Fine stuff. Had not heard a great deal from this band so pleasantly surprised.

Blue Lines by Massive Attack
Sep 28 2021

There is a groove but with little variation. Samey. Heard it all before. Never really gets going.

The Idiot by Iggy Pop
Oct 01 2021

Messy as might be expected but very little of interest.

Disintegration by The Cure
Oct 04 2021

The sound is set out early and they run with it all the way. Hypnotic stuff.

Teenage Head by Flamin' Groovies
Oct 06 2021

A band far better live. This is a mixed set of songs with some fine bluesy rock in there.

Hounds Of Love by Kate Bush
Oct 07 2021

A fine example of how to make the most of the medium, produce two contrasting suites. The flow of side one is a little lost through the familiarity of the singles, one of which is her finest. The second side is altogether different but still captivating.

Darkdancer by Les Rythmes Digitales
Oct 08 2021

Well it hits its mark and keeps going.

Birth Of The Cool by Miles Davis
Oct 11 2021

Some fine compositions, great musicianship. Perfectly digestible.

Melodrama by Lorde
Oct 12 2021

Liked this. Some strong songs others not so. Not the strongest of singers.

NEU! 75 by Neu!
Oct 13 2021

First time listening to this band. An album of its geography and time, but still works today. A good example of how to use the medium with two contrasting 'suites', with the soothing soundscape of the first setting up the more clattering second.

Bookends by Simon & Garfunkel
Oct 14 2021

A long time since I last heard this album all the way through. The song writing is strong and there is a degree of experimentation in the music. Overall an impressive piece of work.

Bad by Michael Jackson
Oct 15 2021

Difficult to know whether this part of a greatest hits album with so many singles on it. Had not listened to the full abum before and it suffers from being swamped by the singles. An edgier approach still with very strong production.

Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere by Neil Young & Crazy Horse
Oct 21 2021

This is a fine album more immediately accessible than others of his on the list. Great songs, good playing.

Dirt by Alice In Chains
Oct 22 2021

Not as in your face as I expected. Some reasonable stuff but plenty of rather gnawing industrial stuff.

Siembra by Willie Colón & Rubén Blades
Oct 25 2021

This was an unexpected joy. Plenty of variation across the piece. Rhythm for the dancing.

Femi Kuti by Femi Kuti
Oct 26 2021

Expansive and lively with little variation.

Pump by Aerosmith
Oct 27 2021

Wasn't able to get into this.

Out Of The Blue by Electric Light Orchestra
Nov 01 2021

This is the album they became ELO rather than the Electric Light Orchestra. The voyage from pioneers to settlers was complete. The craft is evident with some great songs.

Graceland by Paul Simon
Nov 02 2021

Marvellously intelligent.

Urban Hymns by The Verve
Nov 08 2021

Pretty good mix of strong songs.

Lust For Life by Iggy Pop
Nov 09 2021

This turned out to be better than expected. Knew the singles of course but there are others on the album that are better.

This Is Fats Domino by Fats Domino
Nov 10 2021

Pioneering stuff. Clean production. More varied than the songs popular on the radio would suugest.

Nov 11 2021

It has to be nearly forty years since I listened to the whole album. I remember the anticipation of its release in that it would be a double and whether it could hold the attention all the way through. Listening after such an interval it is striking how varied the music is given the way the two songwriters collaborate. There are some standout tracks, the opener is one of the finest of any album. The closer is pretty good too.

Madman Across The Water by Elton John
Nov 16 2021

A mood is set early on and doesn't stray far. Good song writing and fine singing. It follows a popular path of the time but lacks the musical spark that would raise the score. That spark would turn out to be only a few months away.

Nov 23 2021

Big on the beaty. Witty with the wordy. More tolerable than others in this genre but unlikely to revisit.

Raw Power by The Stooges
Nov 24 2021

Very hit and miss.

Ramones by Ramones
Nov 25 2021

Is it pacing, a lack of stamina or simply a ride on the underground having to stop every couple of minutes. Urgent, ballsy and maybe re-breaking the ground but it can't be taken seriously. It's rock and roll after all.

We Are Family by Sister Sledge
Nov 26 2021

Quality factory output but not particularly inspiring.

Cheap Thrills by Big Brother & The Holding Company
Dec 06 2021

Woefully disjointed. Either make it a live album or a properly structured studio one. Very much of its time.

Hotel California by Eagles
Dec 07 2021

A fine collection of songs although many are of their time. The familiarity of the singles provides them with a longevity, plus they are also significantly better than many of the others.

Dec 08 2021

Goodness me this was good. Not heard anything by the band before other than the hype, which on this evidence is more than justified. The energy, the urgency, the songs, the drumming, the riffs, the baselines and lyrics make for a very large sum of the parts.

Rubber Soul by Beatles
Dec 09 2021

A pretty patchy collection of songs. Many timeless but a few showing their age.

Hypocrisy Is The Greatest Luxury by The Disposable Heroes Of Hiphoprisy
Dec 10 2021

A rather drawn out prospectus some of which resonates today. Not really a style that lends itself to repeated listening.

Natty Dread by Bob Marley & The Wailers
Dec 13 2021

Solid

Dusty In Memphis by Dusty Springfield
Dec 22 2021

This is a set of songs carefully selected to highlight the singing talent. The production is excellent and it delivers. It warrants a complete listen each time rather than picking out individual tracks.

Sister by Sonic Youth
Dec 23 2021

On the face of it this is just dissonant noise and comes across as messy. I suspect repeated listening would uncover something deeper. Unlikely to go there.

Dig Me Out by Sleater-Kinney
Dec 24 2021

Their influences are clear but there is a lack of identity. For the most part this is just messy but fleetingly there is a glimmer of cohesion.

Basket of Light by Pentangle
Jan 05 2022

This was something of a surprise. Slightly closer to the folky edge than I imagined. Good voices and some smart instrumentation.

Trans Europe Express by Kraftwerk
Jan 10 2022

Pioneering it may have been but it doesn't really stand up today. Repetition underpins this type of music and it comes down to length and the motifs. In both case this album fails.

Let It Be by The Replacements
Jan 11 2022

Running through a whole range of styles. Plenty of nods to their influences. Some strong songs but others irritating.

Music From The Penguin Cafe by Penguin Cafe Orchestra
Jan 12 2022

The album floats along merrily with a few ripples but it never really p p p p picks-up.

Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
Jan 13 2022

A solid album with a few excellent songs hinting at something more promising.

Shake Your Money Maker by The Black Crowes
Jan 17 2022

This is a pretty good consistent album of it genre. There is no outstanding track. In a live setting this would be feel stronger.

Figure 8 by Elliott Smith
Jan 18 2022

Not heard anything by this artist so this album was as surprise. An excellent set of songs from an anguished soul.

Felt Mountain by Goldfrapp
Jan 19 2022

Another artist new to me. Enjoyable and clear echoes of others.

Treasure by Cocteau Twins
Jan 20 2022

Glorious

I Should Coco by Supergrass
Jan 24 2022

A lot more varied and interesting that the early tracks would suggest. A healthy lack of seriousness and a focus on having fun.

Heaven Or Las Vegas by Cocteau Twins
Jan 25 2022

Less abstract than earlier work but the strong cohesion between voice and drums is still there.

John Prine by John Prine
Jan 26 2022

The lyrics are the highlight here.

Feb 01 2022

Plenty of over complication as is the want of this style from the period. Never took to Genesis in either format, despite having a great singer, drummer and guitar player. Wasn't taken with the album when I heard it about the time it came out. That has not changed. However it is a good piece of work. The three elements I picked out are prominent here and provide the better moments. The guitar fills are wonderful. It is maybe too clever but somewhat dull.

Feb 02 2022

This sounds rather dated. The popular songs stand up due to there familiarity. Live this would be pretty good.

A Girl Called Dusty by Dusty Springfield
Feb 04 2022

Great voice, good mix of songs although some of the arrangements were odd.

Deloused in the Comatorium by The Mars Volta
Feb 07 2022

This was pretty inflated and incoherent but it didn't pop. Difficult to see a reason to revisit.

Dear Science by TV On The Radio
Feb 08 2022

Couldn't get into this. Little stood out.

The Stooges by The Stooges
Feb 14 2022

Quite a mixture of styles here with clear influences of others around at the time.

1999 by Prince
Feb 15 2022

Some of the tracks are maybe stretched a little. The collection is hit and miss but they have something about them.

Beggars Banquet by The Rolling Stones
Feb 16 2022

Starts exceptionally strongly such that the rest simply of the album doesn't maintain. Nevertheless there is much to enjoy, the playing is more than solid, the vocals are variable.

Music From Big Pink by The Band
Feb 17 2022

Having only heard the weight previously the rest of the album was something of a surprise. Good songs and fine musicianship.

The Slider by T. Rex
Feb 22 2022

I remember listening to Telegram Sam in a booth at the local record store. Odd really as I was always going to buy the record. So there was much anticipation of this album a few months later. Bought on the day of release and listened to over and over. It was great, couldn't be anything else. Now decades later listening to the whole album in one session it doesn't have the same resonance. The singles and a few other tracks, title song included are still great. What I did pick up are traces of the pre Electric Warrior band in some of the songs, Chariot Choogle, Spaceball Ricochet. The production certainly added polish. While it may no longer be a regular listen it is good to reminisce and the lyrics are still playful and silly plus there is some chunky guitar work.

Go Girl Crazy by The Dictators
Feb 23 2022

Brash and uninspiring. Live this may well be entertaining.

The White Album by Beatles
Feb 24 2022

Plenty of songs, loads of variety. Some real oddities but enough very good songs. Overall rather sprawling but it is a double album so offers room for experimentation.

Fifth Dimension by The Byrds
Feb 25 2022

A solid offering, again highlighting their folky style of rock. Good guitars and harmonies against some strong songwriting.

Slippery When Wet by Bon Jovi
Feb 28 2022

Oh dear. The singles suggest more than the album delivers. Formulaic nonsense.

Truth And Soul by Fishbone
Mar 02 2022

Had not heard anything by this band before and what a surprise this album is. A fair few changes across the tracks all for the good.

For Your Pleasure by Roxy Music
Mar 03 2022

Some pretty inventive stuff here. The musicianship is very strong. The quirky voice works most of the time but can be way off. More than this I can't say.

Sea Change by Beck
Mar 04 2022

Not overly taken with this. It maybe a couple of tracks too long. There is some promise of change with repeated plays.

In Utero by Nirvana
Mar 08 2022

Could only accommodate Dumb on this album and I would be so very if I were to revisit.

Time (The Revelator) by Gillian Welch
Mar 09 2022

There is enough here to warrant further listening. It is certainly an album for a mood.

New Forms by Roni Size
Mar 10 2022

Jiggly but it's all on cruise control. Choose one for a short journey or both for the longer trips.

Mar 14 2022

Neither here nor there. Rather varied although there are some strong elements. The singer is not particularly strong but it does sometimes work. more often being almost mixed out.

Jagged Little Pill by Alanis Morissette
Mar 15 2022

Familiar with a couple of tracks so expecting more of the same. Unfortunately this wasn't delivered. Somewhat ranting in places which diminished the lyrics.

Teenager Of The Year by Frank Black
Mar 16 2022

Some nice guitars but overall sprawling and messy.

Djam Leelii by Baaba Maal
Mar 23 2022

Not overly adventurous but engaging if maybe a tad too long. It is easy to get hooked on the rhythms.

Imperial Bedroom by Elvis Costello & The Attractions
Mar 24 2022

This was odd. As the tracks were playing through more and more sounded familiar so maybe the album is in the collection. Definitely possible as a lot of early Elvis was bought. A quick check and it cannot be found - seemingly has been removed from the building. There are plenty of his trademarks, the barbed lyrics, the sometimes snarly vocals. There does appear to be a shift away from the more poppy stuff. The quality is there but maybe not as accessible as earlier work.

Mar 25 2022

Not much to take away from this one. A lot of pounding and scratching.

Mar 31 2022

This album, although uneven, was something of a surprise. More melodic than expected making it accessible.

Eagles by Eagles
Apr 01 2022

A good collection of songs, fine harmonies, nice and easy does it.

Screamadelica by Primal Scream
Apr 04 2022

Starts and end well but not so good in the middle.

American Idiot by Green Day
Apr 05 2022

This was good but couldn't get into it. Rhythmically strong and some neat structures but it seemed rather dated.

Sail Away by Randy Newman
Apr 08 2022

Plenty of good songs but just wasn't taken with the delivery. Maybe better covered by others. As a collection is was a little unrelenting.

Drunk by Thundercat
Apr 11 2022

.

In A Silent Way by Miles Davis
Apr 12 2022

Float, float on. Pretty impressive construction here and some neat transitions.

Arrival by ABBA
Apr 13 2022

It is only through this generator that I get to listen to an ABBA album in full. So to hear the massive singles surrounding by songs not previously heard was odd. It will take a few listens for those other songs to not be swamped by the familiar ones. Quality song structure, harmonies and production as expected.

Astral Weeks by Van Morrison
Apr 22 2022

A goto sunday morning album. The way the songs hold together is spectacular. There are places where it feels that it could unravel but beautifully manages keeps it together.

Maggot Brain by Funkadelic
Apr 25 2022

I've been funked senseless after listening to this. What do you want to know?

Searching For The Young Soul Rebels by Dexys Midnight Runners
Apr 28 2022

A splendid album with quality songs and excellent arrangements. The singing works but is a grating on the odd occasion. And really it's just fun and who would not jump in and sing along with their mates.

Band On The Run by Paul McCartney and Wings
May 04 2022

Played over and over on its release. An amusing and varied album with some fine harmonies and solid writing. Listening again after many years it still sounds fine but is not quite there for a full house.

May 06 2022

Simply a great pop album. Clever, sometimes too much, cheesey, fun, tongue in cheek, sumptuous arrangements, superb production and guaranteed to get you out of your chair.

Fragile by Yes
May 09 2022

Pompous, overblown and very much of the time. Nevertheless it is a good set of songs and the musicianship is strong.

Eternally Yours by The Saints
May 13 2022

Starts off suggesting a variation then seems to revert to the norm. Solid with some punchy lyrics.

Harvest by Neil Young
May 16 2022
The Message by Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five
May 17 2022
Queen Of Denmark by John Grant
May 19 2022

Almost arresting to begin with but then falls into a slumber that is not released. Good to have in the background with occasional diversion when a quirky lyric pops out.

Sticky Fingers by The Rolling Stones
May 24 2022

Quite a mix here which makes things interesting.

1977 by Ash
May 25 2022

It could have been a 1977 album but the production is better and there are plenty of twiddly bits thrown in.

Hejira by Joni Mitchell
Jun 02 2022
2112 by Rush
Jun 03 2022
Is This It by The Strokes
Jun 10 2022

After a slow start this just bounded along and was quietly infectious.

Roger the Engineer by The Yardbirds
Jun 13 2022

Tolerable. Such a wild collection of styles. Some neat guitar and bouncy bass lines.

Songs From A Room by Leonard Cohen
Jun 14 2022

Good songs but the delivery doesn't make the most of them.

Live At Leeds by The Who
Jun 15 2022

A live album but let's cherry pick the tracks. Then after reviewer acclaim bung on a few more tracks to give punters better value for money. The album highlights the poor sound systems in operation at the time. Why pick out a student venue to showcase the band? Overall one wholly messy album which does not put the band in a good light, compared to their studio output which was much more creative. It probably sounded good at the concert itself.

All Mod Cons by The Jam
Jun 17 2022

With plenty of nods to their influences this is a punchy collection. The ideas are sound but the lyrics should have had a touch more crafting.

Bitte Orca by Dirty Projectors
Jun 24 2022

Well this was a splendid surprise. Had not heard of the band before. The album contains plenty of thrills. The harmonies complement the lead so well. Plus the album manages to extend time. It appeared much longer than reported timing. Maybe those odd time signatures did the trick.

Bummed by Happy Mondays
Jun 30 2022

Pleasantly surprised.

La Revancha Del Tango by Gotan Project
Jul 01 2022

This rolls along merrily like a peleton on the long straight roads of a flat stage in the TDF.

The Wall by Pink Floyd
Jul 06 2022

Not sure what it is but never taken to the band. Overly long. All in all ..............

Like A Prayer by Madonna
Jul 08 2022

Like a good collection of songs should be.

The Modern Lovers by The Modern Lovers
Jul 12 2022

Some the album still sounds jolly.

Imagine by John Lennon
Jul 18 2022

A varied manifesto that delivers almost all expectations.

Jul 25 2022

Not much going for this. A live set on a TV show. No great shakes. But an event happens and it gets elevated to some crazy status the performance does not merit. The unplugged moniker is simply for the franchise, it is merely the band pared down. Some songs work most do not.

Autobahn by Kraftwerk
Jul 27 2022

Satisfyingly steady. Not the experience it once was, much like driving along a motorway.

Penance Soiree by The Icarus Line
Jul 29 2022

Not heard of this band before so could be interesting. Unfortunately it wasn't. Rather messy, not distinct and repetitive.

Joan Baez by Joan Baez
Aug 04 2022

Sparse but clear arrangements of traditional songs. Stands up well today. Sometimes her voice gets a little shrill but otherwise good to have in the background.

Frank by Amy Winehouse
Aug 09 2022
American Beauty by Grateful Dead
Aug 10 2022

This is a pretty good collection of songs let down by poor production. Lacking oomph in places.

Tapestry by Carole King
Aug 11 2022

Seriously good song writing. Not something for constant play but ideal for an occasion.

London Calling by The Clash
Aug 15 2022

Had not heard this all the way through before. Seriously good. The first album is stronger than the second. This is an excellent collection of varied songs by a band forging a path to set themselves far apart from others at the time.

The Velvet Underground & Nico by The Velvet Underground
Aug 16 2022

One of those albums that when it is on it's fantastic and when it is not it's cacophonous nonsense.

Suicide by Suicide
Aug 26 2022

Rasping, discordant and brutal so a very limited outlet.

The Wildest! by Louis Prima
Sep 01 2022

Bouncy and fun. Great to get things swinging.

3 + 3 by The Isley Brothers
Sep 02 2022
Pink Moon by Nick Drake
Sep 05 2022

Sparse, personal and dextrous.

Rumours by Fleetwood Mac
Sep 09 2022
Close To You by Carpenters
Sep 16 2022

Quite a mix of songs with interesting arrangements. Sometimes the harmonies are too cloying. Above all it's the voice that elevates.

Synchronicity by The Police
Sep 20 2022

With this album they decided to move themselves along. The singles are strong the other a mixture, many solid a couple naff.

Moving Pictures by Rush
Sep 22 2022

Had heard the chatter about this band but not heard anything of their output. Rather different to the chatter but a solid uplift on progressive rock.

Timeless by Goldie
Sep 23 2022

Endless loopy pap.

Hot Rats by Frank Zappa
Sep 26 2022

Wild and inventive with some splendid passages.

Green River by Creedence Clearwater Revival
Sep 27 2022
Little Earthquakes by Tori Amos
Sep 29 2022

Have heard smattering of her work but not listened to an album all the way through. This is not an immediate pick-up and suspect that further plays would be needed to appreciate the talent.

At Mister Kelly's by Sarah Vaughan
Oct 03 2022

The mood is set and underpinned by the vocals but it doesn't stray from safety.

High Violet by The National
Oct 04 2022

This is a fine album that sets it stall out from the start and just continues unwaveringly without much deviation. It suits a mood but doesn't achieve lift off.

Very by Pet Shop Boys
Oct 06 2022

An apt title. If you know the PSB you know what you'll get and this album simply reinforces. Their expansive and sweeping soundscape is augmented with many more twiddly bits. It is strong fare but nothing really stands out. Still guaranteed to get you onto the dance floor.

My Aim Is True by Elvis Costello
Oct 07 2022

It sounded so good in black and white. No longer as on the mark as it was when purchased on the day of release.

Solid Air by John Martyn
Oct 13 2022

A very long time since I last heard this. Of the time but remains a fine collection.

The Hour Of Bewilderbeast by Badly Drawn Boy
Oct 17 2022

Couldn't get into this. Swirling around with different styles but nothing arresting.

It's A Shame About Ray by The Lemonheads
Oct 18 2022

This motored along nicely but didn't take any off road turns.

Damaged by Black Flag
Oct 19 2022

This is an unrelenting and angry collection where this listener can seriously empathize with the title.

The Who Sell Out by The Who
Oct 21 2022

This is a strong selection of songs. The concept nature may have seemed a good idea, and there was plenty of innovation at that time, but the commercials become distracting on repeated plays. If only they weren't built into the track, modern technology would have enabled a playlist without them for the better.

Born In The U.S.A. by Bruce Springsteen
Oct 24 2022

It's Springsteen. It's bombastic. It suits a calling but isn't as strong as his earlier work.

Casanova by The Divine Comedy
Oct 26 2022
Juju by Siouxsie And The Banshees
Oct 28 2022
Odessey And Oracle by The Zombies
Nov 01 2022

Having been taken by the band Argent and being aware of the hits of the Zombies I came by this album as it was bundled as a double with their greatest hits. What a bargain! The album soon became a mainstay on the turntable. It is simple a superb collection of varied songs. Yes its genesis of its time but it does appear to span the generations. Exemplified by their short, but stunning, tour of the album 40 years after its release.

Broken English by Marianne Faithfull
Nov 04 2022

This is a package to be commended. A more than fine example of where the music delivers to album cover. It is an interesting mix of songs that are well produced. The vocals vary but are punchy, gritty and strident throughout.

Parklife by Blur
Nov 07 2022

So varied. There's humour. Many good, a few so so and a couple naff. Have never taken to the singer so their work only warrants infrequent visits.

Exodus by Bob Marley & The Wailers
Nov 08 2022
OK by Talvin Singh
Nov 10 2022

A melding of styles that didn't work for me. Even as a background it didn't disturb.

Since I Left You by The Avalanches
Nov 11 2022

Didn't know what to expect knowing nothing about the group. The album turned out to be disappointing, repetitive and ultimately irritating.

If You're Feeling Sinister by Belle & Sebastian
Nov 14 2022

Had heard the name but not any of their contributions. It may take repeated listens to unpick the layers but on the first run through it set sail and steered a pleasing course. The vocals were infectious supported by strong production. The songs has enough variation with some decent lyrics.

Dust by Screaming Trees
Nov 15 2022

This was variable but just about passable.

Tragic Songs of Life by The Louvin Brothers
Nov 16 2022

Crikey this was weird. Deeply dark with jingly jangly bouzouki sounding backing.

Elvis Is Back by Elvis Presley
Nov 23 2022

The song pickers for this album certainly wanted to share the royalties around. A different writer for each one. Does this make for a strong coherent album. Probably not a consideration at the time. What we get is a fine showcase of Elvis' range supported by quality musicians. Enjoyable but not essential.

Aftermath by The Rolling Stones
Nov 28 2022
Rum Sodomy & The Lash by The Pogues
Nov 29 2022

A soundtrack to an evening out sliding from pub to pub. The musical variety and tone is disturbingly funny in parts.

Nov 30 2022

You need to be in a particular mindset to get into this immediately. Some passages are just too jagged. Of all the tracks, it was D and its extension to E and F that stood out.

Lam Toro by Baaba Maal
Dec 02 2022

This was the least accessible of this style. The higher points are where it picks up and stays with a constant rhythm. Those with many changes were off putting.

The Köln Concert by Keith Jarrett
Dec 05 2022

Finally a reason to include a live album in this series. While all live albums capture a short period in time this one stands out. The pieces didn't exist prior to the concert and, for this, has merit alone. But the compositions, the flow, the interactions are bold and tantalisingly engaging. The early thought that this might be suited as a background accompaniment so dissolved and it became engrossing. For a first listen for a hitherto unknown (to me ) artist this is something.

Blood On The Tracks by Bob Dylan
Dec 06 2022

The first Dylan album I bought, after hearing Lily Rosemary and the Jack Of hearts on the radio. Prior to this I knew of the singles and generally preferred covers of his songs. Listening to a complete album, this album, changed my view of him. The song that got me to buy the album is not the best one but it sits nicely in this stellar collection. It is a masterful display of storytelling through song with an elevated vocal performance reflecting the theme running through the album.

Blackstar by David Bowie
Dec 07 2022

Struggled with this. Some good passages but a few that were hard to get into on a first listen.

Rio by Duran Duran
Dec 19 2022

After the promise of the first album they went full Supermarionation with this one. The overblown videos were an unedifying distraction. In the context of the album the singles work well but the whole is not fulfilling due in part to the limitations of the singer.

Midnight Ride by Paul Revere & The Raiders
Dec 21 2022

Strong mid 60's fayre. There is no distinctive sound to define the band. Much a case of sounds like this band, no its that band. I suppose get this and save yourself buying others thinking you have an album by those other bands.

Want Two by Rufus Wainwright
Dec 22 2022
Tommy by The Who
Dec 23 2022

This seems too focused as a one man obsession and while the band motifs can be heard it just doesn't come across as coherent. There are interesting ideas but the very good bits are well scattered.

Merriweather Post Pavilion by Animal Collective
Dec 28 2022

All for recycling but maybe they should have picked a better base layer. One going forward the other in reverse. Nevertheless there is plenty going on.

Germfree Adolescents by X-Ray Spex
Jan 09 2023

The sax added an interesting twist to a solid album. The vocalist is the star here.

Idlewild by Everything But The Girl
Jan 11 2023

More range and variety than their other works. That is not necessarily a good thing. TT's vocals still shine and this elevates it a notch. The earnest themes still permeate. Pleasant enough but not Eden.

Jan 16 2023

All the motifs are there but despite the biguns it just doesn't hit the mark consistently.

Dire Straits by Dire Straits
Jan 18 2023

It must be over 30 years since I last heard the album. It was purchased shortly after seeing the band live. Played often just to marvel as the guitar playing. While that is still plainly evident the album as a whole now feels somewhat underpowered.

Blur by Blur
Jan 23 2023

An inventive mix of songs, mostly ok with a couple excellent.

Countdown To Ecstasy by Steely Dan
Jan 26 2023

Maybe not their best but my favourite. Almost never off the turntable until Pretzel Logic came along. The hallmarks of the 'band' are all in this collection. I never got a t-shirt.

Jan 27 2023

Bold, imaginative and provocative but ultimately is too repetitive and defeats its own message.

Vol. 4 by Black Sabbath
Jan 30 2023

Have found BS to be very miss and sometimes hit. This is a very heavy collection which kept me interested featuring strong guitar work and an almost tolerable Ozzie.

B-52's by The B-52's
Jan 31 2023

Nothing earth shattering here but a crazy and oblique view. Solidly entertaining and just the right preparation for a night out.

The Rising by Bruce Springsteen
Feb 01 2023

Something of a change and at times not clear that it was Springsteen. Then his trademark style pops up for reassurance. A themed collection that is ok but lacks the impact of earlier work.

Feb 08 2023

The jingle got well and truly jangled here. Have heard a couple of the tracks before on their best of where they slotted in nicely. A few steps on the trajectory got missed to reach this point and it doesn't work.

Dry by PJ Harvey
Feb 09 2023

Raw and maybe angry. May have worked with less brash instrumentation letting the words work. The tolerable parts are fleeting.

Meat Is Murder by The Smiths
Feb 14 2023

Strong album with call outs to bass and guitar. Punchy and flowing only to be deflated by the final track.

Songs From The Big Chair by Tears For Fears
Feb 20 2023

This album is a significant upgrade in all aspects and the view from the plateau must have been a fine one. Still prefer their first album, not as good but sprinkled with freshness.

The Score by Fugees
Feb 22 2023

The tracks that moved away from the closet of the genre pushed this up a notch.

Stardust by Willie Nelson
Mar 06 2023

And why not go against type. An imaginative set of covers with some fine arrangements. As a collection it doesn't do it for me but there are a couple that are very good.

Let England Shake by PJ Harvey
Mar 07 2023

Had no idea what to expect knowing nothing about the artist, so pleasantly surprised by this collection. Certainly worth seeking out further works.

Peter Gabriel by Peter Gabriel
Mar 08 2023

Something of a rag bag collection. Not sure why this would make the list as it is way short of his later work. Not overly keen on his vocal style but it is more tolerable as a sol artist than when part of Genesis.

Buffalo Springfield Again by Buffalo Springfield
Mar 13 2023

This improved on second listening. The standout tracks are those written by the heavyweight members. Others are passable but not of the same standard.

Seventeen Seconds by The Cure
Mar 20 2023

The curing was in its early stages on this album. Much better was to come. Apart from the singles which work as stand alone tracks this really is just a soundtrack to a film that didn't get commissioned.

Live And Dangerous by Thin Lizzy
Mar 21 2023

This is an odd choice, the only album on the list by this band is a live recording, or rather a series of recorded concerts. If the original songs are not good enough to make the list how do live versions make them better. Thin Lizzy were a very good band, they found their sweet spot with the twin leads but it was all down to the charisma of Phil Lynott. This collection showcases how good they could be live. It would have been better to just record one concert and tinker with that rather than tinker with several - or better still leave it raw as concert goers experienced it.

Shaft by Isaac Hayes
Mar 22 2023

A film score and it shows. It is pretty laid back which is weird given the film it is supporting. The title track is the standout providing the memorable hook - Stick any single syllable to the end of the Who is the .....

Group Sex by Circle Jerks
Mar 23 2023

Woefully irresponsible. Passing between 90 second wham bam totally unprotected. The album came 25 years early being ideal for social media where a collection of partially formed ideas are pushed out for a vote. The popular ones developed into complete songs and the rest simply shredded.

C'est Chic by CHIC
Mar 29 2023

Solid funk. The musicianship can't be faulted. A few stand out tracks - the singles. Some songs stretched out so far they fell flat.

Colour By Numbers by Culture Club
Mar 30 2023

Entertaining solid pop band fronted by a good singer. The songs are mixed, some bouncy, many fun and few with a distorted view.

Toys In The Attic by Aerosmith
Apr 03 2023

No bubbles here. The staple for this band was in abundance but there are signs of being conflicted with the closers on each side. Very much out of step with the rest.

Dookie by Green Day
Apr 04 2023

This moves on at a pace with a decent rhythm section. It is standard stuff with no real invention but it is well done. The singer is not strong and someone better might elevate the experience.

Django Django by Django Django
Apr 06 2023

Not heard anything by this band previously. Entertaining with a gentle flow although parts sounded like something from a decade earlier.

Ctrl by SZA
Apr 14 2023
Under Construction by Missy Elliott
Apr 25 2023

I struggle with this genre of music finding it repetitive and with a limited horizon. This album follows the pattern but the artist has something about her that sets it apart. It was palatable and entertaining.

Rising Above Bedlam by Jah Wobble's Invaders Of The Heart
Apr 26 2023

This turned out to be quiet varied, passable for the most part. Some of the vocals were poor.

KIWANUKA by Michael Kiwanuka
Apr 27 2023

Every so often the generator throws up an offering that is blindsiding. This is one of those. No previous knowledge of the artist. The output was totally unexpected and magnificently entertaining. Gloriously time shifting, could be a 60's album, then again it might be 70's and then with a swing upliftingly contemporary. A joy!

L'Eau Rouge by The Young Gods
Apr 28 2023

After the lure of the band name and album title the disappointment of the actual music. Raucous, a mis-melding of styles and lacking grace.

Playing With Fire by Spacemen 3
May 01 2023

Once all the live and remix extras were ignored and down to the original nine tracks this was ok. The quieter stretchy tracks worked best.

Truth by Jeff Beck
May 04 2023

A pretty mixed bag of tracks. Some very good songs others just background. Nevertheless the talent is there and there are some great riffs. Probably stunning live.

Fishscale by Ghostface Killah
May 09 2023

Able to tolerate this more than others of the genre. The scats are naff.

Nevermind by Nirvana
May 10 2023

This may improve through familiarity but I' don't think I can be bothered. There are some good songs, and some raucous nonsense.

Stand! by Sly & The Family Stone
May 24 2023
May 25 2023

A solid road trip album, offering a jumbled alternative to the radio. A two for the price of one, the imagination of the musician combining with the sparkle of the vocalist.

Back to Mystery City by Hanoi Rocks
May 30 2023

Wondering how this got onto the list. The band was known but never really suggested anything original. For this album the band doesn't seem to know whether it should be rock, not powerful enough or pop, lacking memorable catchy tunes. So it fails on both.

Aja by Steely Dan
Jun 01 2023

This is the album where Steely Dan reached the peak of musical evolution. From this point on the quality would ebb a little but nothing would standout or be new. This is a masterclass in musicianship, song structure and technical achievement.

Faust IV by Faust
Jun 02 2023

Having been lured in to purchase the Faust Tapes which turned out to be so weird it put me off checking out their other albums. Quite the opposite of what virgin had intended with their offer. As with a number of bands Faust popped up on John Peel a few times with the offering there much more palatable. This album still has the weird multilingual stuff on it and encouragingly many of the songs have structure. Each side is well balanced giving the album a positive feel throughout.

New Boots And Panties by Ian Dury
Jun 05 2023

A jolly romp. Aside from the fun and often clever lyrics there are some fine songs. These overcome some of the failings of the vocals. It takes the writer to realise their imagination. If you saw the band live you would understand.

Be by Common
Jun 06 2023

This album just flowed along not sparking anything arresting along the way.

Sound Affects by The Jam
Jun 14 2023

A mark of a band becoming more assured. They sound much tighter on this album and the rhythm section is on point. Plus there is some spikey guitar playing. The songs are strong but again there is the feeling that Weller should have spent a little more time on refining the lyrics . That's entertainment is a couple of lines away from being superb.

Jun 16 2023

If he is the soul machine, why the need for so many collaborations? It is the solo stuff that works best where there are some fine songs. The whole album lacks coherence and consistency which may be due to having no single producer.

Public Image: First Issue by Public Image Ltd.
Jun 19 2023

Snarling and biting lyrics against a backdrop of sometimes sprawling noise. Not an enjoyable listen.

Ogden's Nut Gone Flake by Small Faces
Jun 21 2023

Entertaining if a little dated. Doubt that side two would hold up on repeated plays.

Jun 27 2023

This sounded fresh on its release. The range of AL a joy and the twiddly parts from DS uplifting. Other than the singles which are baked in, this simply does not stand up today.

Sulk by The Associates
Jun 30 2023

A little too much fiddling here, such was the thing in the early electro pop. The singer providing moments of joy but more often annoying. It does sound dated but when it hits the mark it is fun and stands up today.

Jul 03 2023

Most unexpected. It started with an infectious rhythm and kept is going continuously seamlessly drifting between instrumental and vocals.

Jul 12 2023

An album of twists, for a time it could have you running off the edge and every now and them jumping off and gliding on a breeze. A lot of effort went in to produce it and small things are found on every listen but you wish that when they let rip they go for it big time. I didn't really feel that.

Wild Wood by Paul Weller
Jul 13 2023

Well produced, good songs and band but its the vocals. After the Jam Weller's voice didn't really fit the genres he moved into. But it is his project and he needed to be the frontman. Covers by other artists may well elevate some of the songs.

White Light / White Heat by The Velvet Underground
Jul 14 2023

A whirlwind in the right light and temperature. A nightmare with the wrong elements.

Elephant Mountain by The Youngbloods
Jul 17 2023

Well the album cover suggested one genre and the music delivered an interesting mix of several. Perfectly cemented in time and place. It flowed along pleasantly with nothing outstanding.

Trio by Dolly Parton
Jul 18 2023

This was jolly. A pretty good collaboration that throws up some fine songs.

Aug 07 2023

Not the experience is was when the album was released. The band had settled on a sound that would drive towards their single known song (not on this album). The singles are good, some of the extended songs work within the context of the album. But it does sound dated. All that glitters is not gold.

Bug by Dinosaur Jr.
Aug 08 2023

Couldn't get into this. Rushed and raucous. Towards the close a hint of something calmer but it didn't last.

The Nightfly by Donald Fagen
Aug 11 2023

Lapped up on release due to absence of new Steely Dan material. Thought it was good at the time but listening again nigh on 40 years later there aren't enough strong tracks. Strong musicianship and well produced as to be expected but lacking an additional critical ear to make it great.

Unhalfbricking by Fairport Convention
Aug 14 2023

This was a treat. Much more variety than expected. Some fine arrangements, great vocals and interesting guitar.

In It For The Money by Supergrass
Aug 15 2023

There is a lot of variety on the album. Good songwriting . But just couldn't get into it.

Aug 16 2023

Solid fayre that seemed interesting at first but seemed to stretch the theme a little too much.

Marquee Moon by Television
Aug 18 2023

An album that is built around the fulcrum of the title track. There is no getting away that is stands head and shoulders above all the others. But most of them are startlingly strong as well. While the vocals may become a little whiney over time the guitar playing and rhythm section more than overcome this. There are scintillating recurring guitar motifs sprinkled across the tracks. An extraordinary rock album that teased us lyrically and musically.

Electric Warrior by T. Rex
Oct 20 2023

The poster that came with the album was on the wall for some time. A super fine collections of songs many of which stand up today, some down to familiarity. Plenty of positive and bouncy tunes elevated by the clever well crafted production.

It's Too Late to Stop Now by Van Morrison
Oct 23 2023

It's Van. It's has all his hallmarks. It;s pretty solid. It's live so a little out of place on this list.

The Only Ones by The Only Ones
Oct 24 2023

Didn't do a lot for me. Pretty variable fayre. Sounds of its time.

Pretzel Logic by Steely Dan
Oct 26 2023

Other than the vocalist who would have thought that this was SD. Very little of what came before or after is imprinted on this album. Save of course the striking songwriting. It took a while to get into the album on release following on from Countdown which remains my favourite of theirs. This is a better album.

Let's Get Killed by David Holmes
Nov 08 2023

A laconic stroll in search of some action that didn't materialise.

Nov 09 2023

A post punk vision in the singles so much better than the almost routine rest. Sarky, amusing but weird from the 40 years on perspective.

Stephen Stills by Stephen Stills
Nov 10 2023

A lot more varied than expected. Good songs nicely produced with some deft contributions from various glitterati.

Nov 14 2023

The polish and vision had yet to become ingrained so an album of experimentation, wit and some decent songs.

The Man Who by Travis
Nov 15 2023

This is the sort of album that is likely to improve on repeated plays. On the first pass, however, it felt like a steady walk along even ground with few discernible landmark until late on elevation added some interest.

Youth And Young Manhood by Kings of Leon
Nov 16 2023

There are short passages that are pretty cool but for the most part it was not interesting. And the vocals well .....

Pyromania by Def Leppard
Nov 17 2023

Little to ignite interest here. Standard rock album of the period. Awful vocals. There are rare guitar thrills though.

Honky Tonk Heroes by Waylon Jennings
Nov 20 2023

A pleasant listen. Can't say there was anything outstanding but a good collections of songs providing more exposure to the genre.

Lady In Satin by Billie Holiday
Nov 21 2023

There is a soulful voice. There are expansive arrangements. It just feels flat. An individual song might feel arresting on the radio but as a collection each just melds into the next.

You Want It Darker by Leonard Cohen
Nov 22 2023

This is a hard listen. Finely structured songs. But as with most of his output it is difficult to warm to his delivery.

Jack Takes the Floor by Ramblin' Jack Elliott
Nov 23 2023

Aptly named. An interesting collection of songs likely to grow on replay.

Only By The Night by Kings of Leon
Nov 24 2023

Crikey another on the list from this band coming only a few days since the last one. This work is later in their career and there had been a change, for the better. A stronger collection of songs that seemed focused on a wider appeal. Maybe this made it more accessible.

Back To Black by Amy Winehouse
Nov 27 2023

The songs fit the voice which channels the person. Somewhat depressing on the face of it but pretty powerful nevertheless. Whether the style was planned or arose during the sessions it clearly works. The production warrants a strong assist here. Overall a fine album.

69 Love Songs by The Magnetic Fields
Nov 28 2023

And then the doorbell rang and the trance was broken. Got just about half way. Quite a scatterbrain collection. This is car journey stuff at best where one needs something light heading up the motorway. As it is so long one might even create a playlist from it picking a select bunch of tunes. That seems the best option for repeated plays.

The Yes Album by Yes
Nov 29 2023

Never been able to listened to a Yes album repeatedly. This one follows the pattern of the other I've heard. I even owned one at some point but it is not easy to skip tracks on vinyl. Anyway this is OK, yes the musicianship is excellent, yes there are some enlightening guitar passages and glorious harmonies but it feels disjointed.

The Infotainment Scan by The Fall
Nov 30 2023

It is recognisable as The Fall through the vocals and drumming but the thrill of their raw early work is not there.

Coles Corner by Richard Hawley
Dec 01 2023

An enjoyable offering with fine songs well delivered with neat arrangements. It all went sideways towards the end with an alternative style. Nothing really wrong with it but felt odd. Some songs are ripe for covering.

Music Has The Right To Children by Boards of Canada
Dec 04 2023

Musical foraging. Sometimes it can be warming and on others upset ones tummy. Here it is mostly the former.

461 Ocean Boulevard by Eric Clapton
Dec 05 2023

This got a lot of radio time on its release as the 'hero' had been away for a while. Seemed OK at the time but almost 50 years on it is so underwhelming. The guitar prowess is held back, only rarely surfacing. Having been in bands full of monster egos their output was often stellar. Being the primary ego the play offs clearly absent the quality is simply not there.

Dec 06 2023

True to the name this is a fun filler between the main event, whatever that may be. Of its time, but raucous seems to fair reasonably well.

Medúlla by Björk
Dec 07 2023

Expect the unexpected from Bjork. This is an ambitious work that is not overly successful. There are passages that are grating and other spellbinding. Difficult to know when this would get played.

School's Out by Alice Cooper
Dec 08 2023

This was fun. More diverse than expected, only knowing the album that followed this one. Holds up well.

After The Gold Rush by Neil Young
Dec 11 2023

There are some seriously strong songs on this album. A pretty pared back production. Not keen on his vocals but they do work well on the biting social commentaries and the harmonies.

Red Dirt Girl by Emmylou Harris
Dec 12 2023

More mature and modern? Her work has certainly been grown up and clearly reflected in the songs here. The style is contemporary with a nag that some songs feel overproduced. It sits well with her earlier work.

Third by Soft Machine
Dec 13 2023

Get the sextant out and plot a course to the edge of your mind. After a start where is seems there was some frantic twiddling of knobs before the correct settings were found it hit a stride. A discordant quartet on offer with many ebbs and flows plus a smattering of wit. Give it a go there is plenty to discover.

Dummy by Portishead
Dec 18 2023

Apart from knowing where Portishead is in the UK and a memory of being stuck on the M5 for 6 hours staring at the exit sign to there, the band is a mystery. Happily this interaction was more positive. Although a little samey the mix is strong and engaging. The vocals fit the style beautifully. Some of the frills seemed an unnecessary embellishment. Or maybe likened to things that distract ones attention from the monotony of being stationary in traffic,

Space Ritual by Hawkwind
Dec 19 2023

Well this was journey! Unlike a recent offering in this list where the frills seemed superfluous, here they are important and compliment the driving rhythms. Of course it is overlong and one wonders whether anyone was still awake at the end of the concert. A tone is set and it continues it unrelenting mission save for the short spoke and somewhat ridiculous interludes. Just the thing for a long trip on the motorway.

Justified by Justin Timberlake
Dec 21 2023

It's not Bad and then neither is it a Thriller.

Porcupine by Echo And The Bunnymen
Dec 22 2023

Strong start with the singles. and backed up with a pretty decent set of songs. A couple are well below par but overall enjoyable.

Pink Flag by Wire
Dec 26 2023

No dilly dally here. It moves at a relentless pass. A refined rawness.

This Year's Model by Elvis Costello & The Attractions
Dec 27 2023

This follows the other EC albums on this list, pretty good songs with a lyrical barb, which don't pack the punch they once did. Having bought the previous and following albums to this one it was the singles that had me shying away from purchasing this. Listening all these years later that has not changed.

Devotional Songs by Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan
Dec 28 2023

So very different. Not my cup of tea. Each song seemed to be a ramble.

Clandestino by Manu Chao
Jan 05 2024

This was fun and rather unexpected. It wasn't until the last few songs that you can appreciate the journey. What seems to be an obvious underpinning rhythm cleverly evolves as the tracks go by, almost like a walk through a city with different cultures. While there is nothing startling it is infectious and calming.

Permission to Land by The Darkness
Jan 08 2024

Rather jolly. No real duds but no standouts either.

Ghosteen by Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
Jan 09 2024

This is a soundtrack to something... Bleak, haunting and stretched to the limit.

The Stone Roses by The Stone Roses
Jan 10 2024

Bought this on a deal while browsing in a superstore on Oxford Street, on cassette, having no knowledge of the band. This was some years after its release, around the time another band from manchester were becoming super popular. The album had glowing reviews. Well what a revelation. A super collection of songs bookend by two stunners. Everything just works, a testament to their readiness and the production team.

Jan 12 2024

This started brightly and was something counter to expectations. However as it moved on it got stuck in a groove and failed to shift out of it.

Highway 61 Revisited by Bob Dylan
Jan 15 2024

Some things need to be set aside to focus on what makes this standout. It is the songs. The voice is hit and miss, the production isn't forensic enough.

Jan 16 2024

A dysfunctional strut. Solid beat which soon becomes monotonous. Cross the street to avoid.

Killing Joke by Killing Joke
Jan 17 2024

Little light in this industrial powerhouse. Somewhat cludgey in places although there are some subtler moments.

Lost Souls by Doves
Jan 18 2024

One likely to improve with repeated plays.

Berlin by Lou Reed
Jan 22 2024

What a challenging narrative. Not a great listen altogether but a bold concept. There a number of fine musical moments along with a few dirge-like passages. One or two songs work outside of the concept and could be listened stand-alone.

Junkyard by The Birthday Party
Jan 23 2024

Closest match ///birthday.party.unheard Just imagine if there were such a spot you could cry alone after having heard this utter excruciating nonsense.

Oxygène by Jean-Michel Jarre
Jan 24 2024

Plenty of depth and repetition as goes with the genre at the time. Fine to have it sweep around but not something to seek out.

Trafalgar by Bee Gees
Jan 26 2024

Still in their chameleon phase. Nothing overly wrong with that but there is no real sense of what. There are some good songs often let down by overblown orchestration. What works in one song doesn't necessarily work in another. The harmonies, as to be expected, are more than fine. Overall OK if a little monotone.

Manassas by Stephen Stills
Jan 29 2024

This was something of a surprise. Through the course of the album there are jumps between styles, although underpinned by the soft rock that had framed earlier work. Although a solo effort it clearly benefits from the collection of musicians assembled. It probably works better through streaming without interruptions than it would as a physical double album.

Country Life by Roxy Music
Jan 30 2024

There is plenty to admire in the collection. Every member gets a fair shot to shine. Less experimental than earlier work with probably more control to create a consistent sound, albeit one with many levels.

Axis: Bold As Love by Jimi Hendrix
Feb 01 2024

It is a Hendrix album so there is pretty good stuff, moderate stuff and stuffless stuff. Again there is evidence of a good songwriter as witness by other artists making covers. In general there aren't enough of them. The guitar work makes up for some of the limitation but that can only go so far. Live is would have been stuffing great as the dodgy soundsystems of the time time would have compensated for the limited vocals.

Bandwagonesque by Teenage Fanclub
Feb 02 2024

Couldn't get into this at all.

Feb 05 2024

Leaving aside the upturned crusts of the first and last tracks the filling was a surprise. Very much of the americana of the time. Good that the production did overpower the songs. Pleasant but not overly memorable.

Scum by Napalm Death
Feb 06 2024

They got the title correct, best song on the album, albeit on a very low bar. In general a nightmare akin to turning the dial on the radio in search of something lighter only to find the apocalypse in motion with this as the pervasive broadcast.

Golden Hour by Kacey Musgraves
Feb 07 2024

very middle of the road

Feb 09 2024

Interesting to go with a live album for debut - cost? Sounds remarkably polished production wise for a live album from that time. So not as raw as one might think and lyrically offering a limited vision. Certainly powerful aggressive rock.

Tusk by Fleetwood Mac
Feb 12 2024

This seems like the band took an opportunity to wander in the enormous shadow of the monster. Overall it is solid but uneven where the step away from the formula did not work. The trademarks are there but not in abundance.

Green by R.E.M.
Feb 13 2024

This will be a grower. It seems to be the way with this band. The singles have an immediate connection. There are none that standout but it is solid fayre throughout.

Shaka Zulu by Ladysmith Black Mambazo
Feb 14 2024

It is occasional music. Difficult to know what that occasion might be. One is set aside from ones travails while this is playing.

Dub Housing by Pere Ubu
Feb 15 2024

Nothing exceptional here. Maybe weird for the time but there have always been artists that have an alternate vision. An eclectic mix with the better songs having none or muted vocals.

Southern Rock Opera by Drive-By Truckers
Feb 16 2024

A pretty neat concept well executed. There is is some guff on the journey particularly at the start and we are taken though a sampler of all that southern rock has to offer. All that rough and all that shines can be found.

Snivilisation by Orbital
Feb 20 2024

All I got from this was an image of a bunny bashing a set of drums and wishing I has bought the cheap brand.

Tea for the Tillerman by Cat Stevens
Feb 21 2024

A consistently strong collection. The songwriting is excellent. The production let the songs breathe which serves it well over 50 years on.

Exile On Main Street by The Rolling Stones
Feb 22 2024

A rather wild mix of styles mostly underpinned by their core. As usual the vocals vary from tight fit to a little baggy. Plenty of strong performances by the band and their guests.

Future Days by Can
Feb 29 2024

This didn't match my memory of the band. More avant garde and experimental. Well this was a surprise a coherent multi layered journey built around infectious rhythms.

Heroes to Zeros by The Beta Band
Mar 01 2024

Not heard of the band prior to this dropping. Well what a fun mix. Nothing truly original but some sparkling songs across many rock genres. Definitely one for the road.

Water From An Ancient Well by Abdullah Ibrahim
Mar 04 2024

Couldn't get into this at all. Had the background feel to it. There were short passages, the solos, that were almost arresting.

Mar 06 2024

Ah the busker in your living room. Its all good fun despite some of the earnest political stuff. There are some nifty hooks and one liners. Mixed in are some love songs and the off kilter vocal and delivery make it quite compelling.

The Colour Of Spring by Talk Talk
Mar 07 2024

A definite shift from their initial poppy work. The tighter constraints of that are forsaken for a number of earnest rambling extensions. The fun and froth now gone. Not an enjoyable experience.

Ingenue by k.d. lang
Mar 08 2024

Only knew of the artist through the collaborations so this was something new. And something of a surprise. An enjoyable collection of songs, well crafted with some catchy.

The Next Day by David Bowie
Mar 11 2024

The invention that stands out in his work is there but not at previous levels. This is an uneven work but contains enough recognisable elements that permeate the songs to maintain an interest.

Want One by Rufus Wainwright
Mar 12 2024

The lush arrangements certainly heighten the emotional drawer. Could it be more powerful pared down just vocal an light instrumentation. The presentation is on the cusp of holding one's attention and being soppy. A strong set of songs.

Giant Steps by The Boo Radleys
Mar 13 2024

This travelled along many paths, some were sunlit most were foggy.

Mar 15 2024

It is a testament to the vision of the man getting a collection of fine musicians with little connection to produce such a varied selection of songs. At times thrilling and others a little discordant. But it works. Almost steeped in its time but given the variety and production standards it works today.

The Contino Sessions by Death In Vegas
Mar 19 2024

This just sauntered along lacking any inspiration and depth.

Led Zeppelin IV by Led Zeppelin
Mar 28 2024

When you own the album on cassette you can't cherry pick the tracks. This means you listen to all of them and over time appreciate the nuances of each one. As a collection probably their best work. Individual tracks elsewhere may well be better.

The Libertines by The Libertines
Mar 29 2024

This rattled along with some aplomb. Some nifty bouncy stuff easy to access. Overall entertaining and fun.

The Cars by The Cars
Apr 01 2024

Pretty fine fayre. Plenty of hooks to grab the attention. Varied enough with enough depth to elevate above pure pop and keep the interest until the closing track.

Hms Fable by Shack
Apr 02 2024

This was a surprise. Knew nothing about the band. A collection of well crafted songs with good harmonies.

Crime Of The Century by Supertramp
Apr 03 2024

This flows along innocently and fits nicely in its genre. There is little to get excited about. The song structures can be somewhat complicated.

Frampton Comes Alive by Peter Frampton
Apr 05 2024

All about the guitar I'm afraid. Beyond this there is little else to warrant any attention.

Innervisions by Stevie Wonder
Apr 08 2024

Years since I heard this. The album is pretty varied in styles and themes with all the Stevie trademarks. Sounds a little dated on some track, early synthesizer stuff seems prevalent of this.

KE*A*H** (Psalm 69) by Ministry
Apr 10 2024

Beyond the pail for my liking. Crash Bang but little wallop.

Halcyon Digest by Deerhunter
Apr 11 2024

Not heard of the band. Pretty varied. Generally middling.

En-Tact by The Shamen
Apr 12 2024

In the cold light of the listen at home while you work it takes a lot for this genre to break out and be moving without chemical assistance. This just doesn't have it. Were it a CD it would have been shredded.

Phaedra by Tangerine Dream
Apr 16 2024

A repetitive swirling adventure that sometimes drifts to something darker. The title track certainly tells a strong story.

Cloud Nine by The Temptations
Apr 22 2024

Enjoyed this. Something of a departure from the singles which is what an album should attempt to offer.

Foxbase Alpha by Saint Etienne
Apr 23 2024

The fillers were fluffy and light but doubt they work on repeated listening. An album of mixed styles that is jolly in places, feisty in others and mundane elsewhere.

Chirping Crickets by Buddy Holly & The Crickets
Apr 25 2024

It's great to hear the many of the tracks on the radio as one offs and interesting to see how the album is basically singles. It just feels so underpowered today. There is no doubt about the significance of the artist and that alone raises the rating.

In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida by Iron Butterfly
Apr 29 2024

Sub-standard doors off their hinges. Probably a blast live.

Histoire De Melody Nelson by Serge Gainsbourg
May 01 2024

A bold concept somewhat spoiled by the delivery. The vocals require emotion to convey the story when the language is not familiar and that simply isn't there. Possibly on repeated listens, subtle twists may well be found. Nevertheless the music is more than solid and often a quirky take on what was popular at the time.

Street Signs by Ozomatli
May 02 2024

A varied collection in style and quality.

Arise by Sepultura
May 14 2024

Awful angular sounds but somewhat compelling.

Traffic by Traffic
May 16 2024

The competing styles made for an entertaining album. Nothing startling but kept the attention.

90 by 808 State
May 23 2024

Plenty of repetitive diddle diddle but devoid of emotion.

The New Tango by Astor Piazzolla
May 29 2024

Pleasant enough floating by in the background. Little movement away from the core.

Nebraska by Bruce Springsteen
May 30 2024
Music by Madonna
May 31 2024

Although many of the U2 hallmarks are in evidence there are few that standout. A pretty good album overall but not going to displace their early work.

Jun 05 2024

Could it be that this album is on the list just for the challenge of the title? Leaving aside the squashing of two albums to get this one does the music hold up. There is nothing groundbreaking here. A more controlled version of the genre fitting into its time frame. It is raucous, somewhat unrelenting but OK.

First Band On The Moon by The Cardigans
Jun 06 2024

Having only known the singles the expansion to an album was refreshing. String solid pop music.

Superfly by Curtis Mayfield
Jun 07 2024

Oooh eer! This sets a cool mood and runs with it. So much classier than others of this genre.

Parallel Lines by Blondie
Jun 10 2024

The mark of a great pop album where almost all of the tracks could be singles, and the record company had a good go at this. Credit to the producer for keeping the songs tight and getting a consistently high vocal performance from DH.

Pretenders by Pretenders
Jun 17 2024

It has been sometime since I last heard the album. The singles drift through now and them. When the album was released almost everywhere you went someone had a copy or it was playing at a party. It certainly caught a wave. Forty years on it still resonates as a fine album, maybe no longer a great one.

Debut by Björk
Jun 20 2024

Bought this album on spec as someone I knew kept banging on about the Sugarcubes. What an impression it made. Plugged into a emerging trend and flipped it. Still sound bright today.

More Specials by The Specials
Jun 21 2024

A fair bit going on in these songs but lacking in any sort of oomph.

Tidal by Fiona Apple
Jun 25 2024

Lyrics may be one thing but the overall feel is a collection of songs with a somewhat disinterested delivery.

GREY Area by Little Simz
Jun 26 2024

A slight shift from the usual for this genre with passages that were tolerable.

Technique by New Order
Jul 01 2024

After a truly awful opening this improved considerably. Plenty of the hallmarks of the band in evidence.

Ys by Joanna Newsom
Jul 03 2024
Larks' Tongues In Aspic by King Crimson
Jul 04 2024

There are passages when things are not so glacial but overall it is a struggle to get into this, certainly without many plays. More often familiarity brings out the nuances and it become acceptable. The question being does one want to go on that journey. There is plenty in there whether it is that innovative, not sure.

GI by Germs
Aug 08 2024

Surrounded by bottles of Domestos we survived this onslaught. Grinding raucous nonsense with rare moments of almost a tune. Bizarrely the final track fractured and off the wall that it is turned out to be the most interesting.

Gentlemen by The Afghan Whigs
Aug 12 2024

Wildly inconsistent musically and woeful lyrically.

Parsley, Sage, Rosemary And Thyme by Simon & Garfunkel
Aug 14 2024

It sounds rather dated and somewhat low-fi for modern tastes but this is a collection of high quality songs with an almost exemplary delivery.

Remain In Light by Talking Heads
Aug 16 2024

This is where the inventive and clever collection collapses in on itself only surfacing for the one gem we all know. Not helped by the dense production.

At San Quentin by Johnny Cash
Aug 30 2024

The concept is a bold one and it teeters on the edge of acceptability for this list. But it is still a live album regardless of the location. Nonetheless this is more than fine example of the artist as a musician and a performer. It is clear that the audience are in thrall and it is down to the man.

Repeater by Fugazi
Sep 03 2024

A case of don't judge by the first few seconds. As it went along the oh no another of this type gave way to this has something about it. More structure and a subtleness of power.

Trout Mask Replica by Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band
Sep 05 2024

Multi-dementional. A soundtrack to an evening in Wetherspoons. Glorious

Different Class by Pulp
Sep 06 2024

This could be a grower. Nothing sensational but enough to pique the interest. But every class is different.

Calenture by The Triffids
Sep 09 2024

As requested by the final song, I will and be brief. It was good.

Sep 10 2024

Mildly impressed by this. The usual MO for this genre playing out but instead of becoming bored there was something about the collection. Maybe the odd placement of the samples. The seemingly less preachy outlook. Edging towards the hinterland of cool.

Shalimar by Rahul Dev Burman
Sep 23 2024

This was a right old mish mash of styles. Jolly enough and accessible.

A Date With The Everly Brothers by The Everly Brothers
Sep 24 2024

Exquisite pop music, clean, functional, easily digestible and almost disposable. Except the really good stuff lingers.

Tago Mago by Can
Sep 25 2024

It does go on a bit and there are some weird passages but it does motor along with purpose.

I See You by The xx
Oct 01 2024

Mild and unobtrusive.

White Light by Gene Clark
Oct 03 2024

An enjoyable collection of songs pretty well delivered. Fifty plus years on it now seems underwhelming.

Led Zeppelin II by Led Zeppelin
Oct 07 2024

Why didn't they make this a live album. It appears to be how it has been structured. The solo performances are excellent but seem out of place. This is a great band but they demonstrate it rarely here. When it works it really does.

Live At The Star Club, Hamburg by Jerry Lee Lewis
Oct 09 2024

And this is the problem with live albums on the list and particularly with this artist. The music is driving and well recorded but the showmanship which must have been a key part of the performance just does not come across.

Roxy Music by Roxy Music
Oct 11 2024

A good marker as an introduction to the band. Far too experimental to really be on the list. In that sense it might be good to hear once. Their later albums have stronger songs and more of a sense of a band. Here someone spent too much time on the knobs.

Smile by Brian Wilson
Oct 15 2024

This is a weird one. It definitely warrants being on the list. Recorded in the current century but can't break out of the previous one. It is so not of its time. Has all that one would expect of the artist, great songs, exquisite harmonies and inventive arrangements.

Blue by Joni Mitchell
Oct 16 2024
Kimono My House by Sparks
Oct 18 2024

What a sparking collection of songs. Bought the album after the singles had run through and heard a few other tracks on the radio. Thought it very good at time but have appreciated it more over the years and with it being presented as the latest in the list it is one of the few to get a back to back play. There is plenty to digest.

Groovin' by The Young Rascals
Oct 21 2024
Pelican West by Haircut 100
Oct 29 2024

Pleasant fun pop although rather dated.

Diamond Life by Sade
Oct 30 2024

A good set of songs, well produced and performed but lacking any edge.

25 by Adele
Oct 31 2024

No doubting the voice but it lack subtlety. It seems to get to shouty and stay there. The producers certainly got a performance but they didn't get spine tingling songs.

Third/Sister Lovers by Big Star
Nov 04 2024

Something of a surprise. The slower tracks much better than the rock ones.

Blood And Chocolate by Elvis Costello & The Attractions
Nov 05 2024

Disappointing. Some strong songs but mostly uninspiring and samey.

One World by John Martyn
Nov 06 2024

There's a definite shift from other work by this artist. This will be a grower with familiarity. On a first play the second side much stronger than the side one. The mix is odd at times but given there is experimentation going on it works. The guitar work is great.

The Coral by The Coral
Nov 07 2024

A right old 60s mix with noughties production. Neat

The Gilded Palace Of Sin by The Flying Burrito Brothers
Nov 11 2024

There's some good stuff on the album but it's soooo slow.

Nov 13 2024

Avalon,Nirvana, They went there and milked it. But this is their peak. Everything coalesced on this album. And thereafter we were left with just the rattle and hum.

Pearl by Janis Joplin
Nov 14 2024

Fine voice if a tad boisterous at times. Probably good in a bar with the atmosphere. Comes across as lacking depth.

Billion Dollar Babies by Alice Cooper
Nov 28 2024

In a period when the personas became marketed as ever more extreme it clearly worked and AC became very popular in the UK. A well played album at the time in the circle of friends. It captured a teenager's rebelliousness thoughts even if they had no intention of going there. A liberal scattering of some proper sing-along pop songs that still work well belted out today.

Mask by Bauhaus
Nov 29 2024

Not a grim as I thought. Production seemed a little muddy. Lacking the vocal distinction of some contemporaries.

Not easy to get into this. The early tracks were an ache. Switched to headphones and the sax separation became clear and is pretty bold. The later tracks are more accessible.

A Hard Day's Night by Beatles
Dec 10 2024

I'm at home listening and Everything seems to be right.

1984 by Van Halen
Dec 11 2024

I get this as a fun party night out with its semi-live feel but as a serious album it is clearly lacking. Virtuoso guitar is one thing but it needs context and subtlety. Ideal for air guitar and head nodding with one's mates.

Survivor by Destiny's Child
Dec 12 2024
Rejoicing In The Hands by Devendra Banhart
Dec 16 2024

A modern day Wielder of Words but without the bongos.

The White Room by The KLF
Dec 17 2024

There are other better white rooms. This passed me by when it came out and today it seems rather dated and joyless.

The Rolling Stones by The Rolling Stones
Dec 19 2024

Odd choice to be on the list. Maybe to compare their debut offering with that of the Beatles. It loses hands down. A solid demonstration of their ability as musicians, especially Charlie, on a set of covers

Dec 26 2024

Two days running with this genre and more accessible than the previous one. There is a noticeable difference until the last track pooped it right back to type.

The Low End Theory by A Tribe Called Quest
Jan 03 2025

More wordy wrapping hood. Entertaining at times. Dreary for the most part.

Ace of Spades by Motörhead
Jan 07 2025

No need to stroke the chin or check the stereo separation. This is high octane no nonsense in your face drivel. It's engaging because of the front man.

Psychocandy by The Jesus And Mary Chain
Jan 09 2025

Any song seems to be squashed by the distortion. It's so distracting and ultimately annoying.

Tarkus by Emerson, Lake & Palmer
Jan 13 2025

Very little of this works. A lot of intricate twiddling and sweeping nut coherent songs are not the result. Even the toe taping final tracks suffers from some discordant tinkering. Couldn't get into the band at the time and now sounds insufferably indulgent.

Chris by Christine and the Queens
Jan 14 2025

Started with the English version which was not particularly engaging. Then switched to the french where the songs had a different feel, probably not understanding the lyrics,. The performance came across as more invested. Although the sound seemed to hark back to the eighties the production is more modern and suggests that it will still sound OK in thirty years time. Catchy enough for replay.

Amnesiac by Radiohead
Jan 16 2025

This, like much of their output, is not immediately accessible. There is plenty in there but I doubt that I want to invest the time to unlock the mysteries. Middling as it will stand, not rubbish but also far from outstanding.

A Seat at the Table by Solange
Jan 17 2025

Rhythm may be a dancer but not on this tiresome offering. It so slow and samey. The seat is ideal for this, clap to the left, clap to the right, so suited to a morning tv show exercise routine. It is well produced.

Kenya by Machito
Jan 21 2025

This was nice.

Behaviour by Pet Shop Boys
Jan 24 2025

There is nothing really wrong with this collection, but then there is little to get you out of your seat. But then maybe this is the point and there were a decade ahead of when their audience would slow down. These are a shuffle, ideal for a slumber. A long way from their bouncy disco pure pop.

War by U2
Jan 27 2025
Tical by Method Man
Jan 28 2025
Freak Out! by The Mothers Of Invention
Jan 29 2025

A sprawling mess but with nuggets of glory. The crazy stuff is fun but doesn't warrant repeated play. The shorter tracks are inconsistent. Some are very good. It does sound a little dated. There's no doubting the album's influence.

System Of A Down by System Of A Down
Jan 31 2025

Something of an eye opener. Raucous indeed but with fun on the side.

Music for the Masses by Depeche Mode
Feb 03 2025

The songwriting keeps the interest here. Less catchy that some of their other work. As a collection it works pretty well.

Feb 05 2025

This is an album I had on cassette having taped it from a friend. Those were the days when the budget limited what could be bought and there would be an agreement on which album to buy and those to copy. Having seen them tour the album it was played for some time until the inevitable happened and he tape twisted that no end of pencil twiddling could repair. Many many years late fate intervened and when out geocaching one day the CD of the album was found in a geocache and duly swapped with something of dubious quality. Despite being in a container exposed to the elements the album was listened to in the car on the way home. It has been a staple ever since. A more than fine example of stretched english folk with strong songwriting, sparkling harmonies plus some scalding guitar.

That's The Way Of The World by Earth, Wind & Fire
Feb 07 2025

Only know of the band through the hits. This album demonstrates a breath beyond them. Nothing exceptional but grooves along with infection.

Feb 10 2025

Good that there seems to be a theme running and is stays just this side of the edge. Plenty of other experimental stuff to select to fit the title of the list. Hear it once and move on. Well it's done.

Immigrés by Youssou N'Dour
Feb 11 2025

Musically strong, vocally variable.

Welcome To The Pleasuredome by Frankie Goes To Hollywood
Feb 13 2025

This is probably worthy of its place on the list simply due to the marketing. Quite a feat to have a debut album as a double containing a smattering of covers. The running order is well put together. The title track established the path well and probably represents a signature for the band. The monster singles are in their shortened form when almost everywhere you went at the time you heard one of the many extended mixes. Marketing again. The covers are faithful but work within the concept. Immense fun at the time. Now merely a time capsule.

The Velvet Underground by The Velvet Underground
Feb 26 2025

This seemed so restrained, pleasant even until the penultimate track when normal VU appeared restored.

The Scream by Siouxsie And The Banshees
Feb 28 2025
Skylarking by XTC
Mar 03 2025

Very English, sounding like a 60's concept album with a prelude to the 90's Brit sound. And all wrapped up in 80's production. Solid.

Exile In Guyville by Liz Phair
Mar 05 2025

This is rather uneven. The songwriting is good. It all falls down in the vocals. These are her songs but the delivery is uninspiring. The vocals need to be on point and perfectly pitched or where limited be distinctive so that you think, yeah I get it. Both are absence here.

Chore of Enchantment by Giant Sand
Mar 06 2025

Although this fell away at the end the collection is pretty cool.

All Things Must Pass by George Harrison
Mar 10 2025

Hard to imagine repeated listens to the entire album. A playlist feature helps to build something digestible. And there is more than enough fine things here. For the most part the songwriting is strong. The musicianship can't be faulted. Maybe at times the production is not well defined.

Kenza by Khaled
Mar 17 2025

Quite a groove. Moved along nicely but keeps going and starts to overstay its welcome. Ideal for dipping.

Rapture by Anita Baker
Mar 20 2025

Fine voice. Stylistically vapid.

Electric by The Cult
Mar 21 2025

Oh my this was excruciating. Any subtlety was lost on me.

Definitely Maybe by Oasis
Mar 25 2025

Neither Meh or Wow. Solid rock and roll.

Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd
Apr 03 2025

Never been able to get into PF. Nothing really wrong with the music. It just lacks something. No doubting the vision. This just sounds like it could be a soundtrack to Shoestring.

Vanishing Point by Primal Scream
Apr 04 2025

A case of ADS here. So much switching it felt like tuning a radio to find a song you like and then getting bored with it and fiddling again. Moments of joy are few.

The Good, The Bad & The Queen by The Good, The Bad & The Queen
Apr 08 2025

Pretty vanilla, meanders pleasantly until the last track which is awful.

Apr 11 2025

As a rear view mirror sentiment the title may have mileage but not for the band on this album. The hallmarks are there but signs of wilting beginning to show.

Fly Or Die by N.E.R.D
Apr 23 2025

No idea what to expect having no knowledge of the band. A quirky kind of offering. Hard to get into but almost something of everything.

Deserter's Songs by Mercury Rev
May 06 2025

A lot of hype around this album which prompted a buy. It has a strong collection of songs, some excellent but there's a nag that it is missing something that would make it worthy for this list.

Heaux Tales by Jazmine Sullivan
May 08 2025

Hard to imagine picking this up without it being in the list. Formulaic in the music, the slanted themes became rather tiresome even though were were some lighter moments. The set-ups really only work the first time through. Not the slickest in the way of production.

Third by Portishead
May 21 2025
#1 Record by Big Star
May 22 2025

Enjoyed this. A little dated but fine songs, plenty of variation with strong harmonies.

The Sounds Of India by Ravi Shankar
May 23 2025

Undoubtedly novel to western tastes at the time. Now this music is infused in the culture across the UK. Exemplary playing but overall not earth shattering.

May 26 2025

It goes on and on and becomes tedious. There are some neat parts, probably best tucked away on a random playlist.

Kilimanjaro by The Teardrop Explodes
May 27 2025

The poppy parts were jolly, the rest jolly awful.

Peter Gabriel 3 by Peter Gabriel
May 29 2025

Fine album with a good mix of the experimental and more poppy sounds. More accessible than Genesis.

Night Life by Ray Price
Jun 03 2025

A lot of variation in this collection with more than a few similarities to other singers around at the time. Doubt it an influential piece of work but enjoyably spirited. Suited to a mood.

Will The Circle Be Unbroken by Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
Jun 04 2025

Double album was too much to digest in one go. Couldn't identify a link between the two so probably didn't miss anything. The songs were surprisingly varied and entertaining. Probably be able to extract chunks to get a digestible playlist.

Penthouse And Pavement by Heaven 17
Jun 19 2025

Oh for schisms! Without this one this is what we could have expected from the Human League. At the time it was a more agit prop funky synth compared to the pure pop of HL. It was fun and good for dancing. Now it sounds so dated and rather immature.

So by Peter Gabriel
Jun 24 2025

Owned this album at some point. Never got into it and gave it away when someone rummaging through my record collection when gooey over Peter Gabriel.

Os Mutantes by Os Mutantes
Aug 01 2025

Every now and then the list throws up something off the wall and while not earth shattering warrants being on it. On one level it seems another psychedelia entry but as with the genre it has a latin twist. Fun and frighteningly listenable.

Walking Wounded by Everything But The Girl
Aug 04 2025

Undoubtedly would be a grower, the repetitive rhythms and TTs voice almost guarantee this. However it feels less inventive than their earlier work.

Now I Got Worry by The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion
Aug 07 2025

This album is like walking into a pub where there is a fight in progress and you think we'll go to the quiet one down the road for a game of dominoes.

Safe As Milk by Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band
Aug 22 2025

Always though the captain was weird and steered clear. On this offering if weird is wandering off the conventional path with neat and clever fillers, then count me in. There is so much in these songs and the flow works really well.

To Pimp A Butterfly by Kendrick Lamar
Aug 26 2025

Started promisingly then fell away with plenty of tiresome language that was off putting. More moderation might have been better served.

Fear and Whiskey by Mekons
Aug 28 2025

A gruesome mish-mash styles that seemed limited. Mostly tuneless.

Rage Against The Machine by Rage Against The Machine
Aug 29 2025

What a potent concoction. Strident and loud throughout. Impressive in its own way.

Horses by Patti Smith
Sep 09 2025
Suede by Suede
Sep 16 2025
Pictures At An Exhibition by Emerson, Lake & Palmer
Sep 17 2025

Poor Greg Lake sandwiched between two towering overactors. Yes it is accomplished and dextrous but boy is it tedious. There is some joy, the jolly and bop-along final track.

Kollaps by Einstürzende Neubauten
Sep 18 2025

If enough this are hit then at some point it will resonate. Stuck with this through gritted teeth with some reward. As the tracks went on the very angular noise gave way to something more palatable. Nevertheless not something to revisit.

Abbey Road by Beatles
Sep 22 2025

A wild collection so varied in styles. Musically strong benefiting from stellar production. Not one for regular listening.

Meat Puppets II by Meat Puppets
Sep 25 2025

Setting aside the shouty parts this evolved into an entertaining journey. The softer vocals worked best and the guitar is sparkling throughout.

Metal Box by Public Image Ltd.
Oct 06 2025

Bass, Bass and more Bass. It is a sprawling mess.

The ArchAndroid by Janelle Monáe
Oct 07 2025

Well this was a sparkling offering, varied and driven by strong songwriting and musicianship. This is where the list works. Had no knowledge of the artist prior to this.

Illinois by Sufjan Stevens
Oct 08 2025
Cross by Justice
Oct 09 2025

Started ok then became progressively more annoying.

Electric Music For The Mind And Body by Country Joe & The Fish
Oct 10 2025

Sounds of its time and it is easy to mistake for other contemporaries. This is no bad thing. It is fine and good to return to every so often.

Blood, Sweat & Tears by Blood, Sweat & Tears
Oct 13 2025

Given that some of the songs are almost standards there was familiarity. Always found something in the voice of DCT which works across a mix of musical styles. A pretty good album that still sounds fine today.

A strong current running through the album, music, lyrics and guitars. The two vocalists doesn't really work. It was unfortunate that RL was in the same band as RS with his distinct and powerful delivery, as he was a fine singer.

Sound of Silver by LCD Soundsystem
Oct 16 2025

It seemed to have something which evaporated to nothing. Pick one play then OK. Anymore it is just a tad repetetive.

Beauty And The Beat by The Go-Go's
Oct 17 2025

A consistent set of jolly songs ideal for a party. Nothing groundbreaking.

Doggystyle by Snoop Dogg
Oct 31 2025

This follows the usual MO for this genre where it has some semi-infectious grooves which are swamped by tedious interludes.

Kings Of The Wild Frontier by Adam & The Ants
Nov 03 2025

Ever so dandy. Poptastic of its age. Same relentless beat through with lyrics replete with silliness. Limited vocals. Turn up the volume and get prancing.

Highway to Hell by AC/DC
Nov 05 2025

Relentless which becomes tiresome. Like the chunky guitar. Dislike the vocals. Little to redeem. Saw them live early in their career, really much of a muchness.

Superfuzz Bigmuff by Mudhoney
Nov 06 2025

Unrefined filthy nonsense. You either run with it or away from it.

Rip It Up by Orange Juice
Nov 10 2025

This is stuck in its time. It is not without its merit with some swings through styles. The variation is its failing. There is little to identify the band.

evermore by Taylor Swift
Nov 11 2025

Undoubtedly a slow burner. Had heard the album before and thought it was ok. With repeated listens the layers are uncovered. What seemed rather bland and repetitive does have depth. The writing is strong, the singing less so.

Brutal Youth by Elvis Costello
Nov 12 2025

Couldn't get into this. Similar to some of the earlier work but lacking hooks and humour. With the style of delivery this comes overs as shouty and often repetitive.

The Soft Bulletin by The Flaming Lips
Nov 14 2025

Not heard anything by the band. Solid offering.

Nov 18 2025

Although there are some fine songs it is a very dour collection lacking in memorable hooks. Unlikely to get a full airing with just cherry picking a few for a list.

Next by The Sensational Alex Harvey Band
Nov 19 2025

Quite the collection. The theatrical stuff is out there and digestible is small chunks. On the other hand the more conventional is enjoyable if tied to its time. Did see them in their hey day and it was a riot.

Reggatta De Blanc by The Police
Nov 21 2025

The first album had some good pop songs. This one has one monster and overall the writing and performances are better. Owned the album sometime ago and this first full through listen for a couple of decades. It still sounds fine but not as impactful as it may have once sounded. The band is tight with all three contributing sterling stuff. One of the weaker areas are the vocals.

Stripped by Christina Aguilera
Nov 25 2025

This was too long. A lot of effort went in to the production and selection of songs with mixed results. CA had a strong voice, although it didn't feel stretched and kept on the same side. No song had a spine tingling moment. No doubt the voice could deliver this. There was certainly scope for this in a album, especially over an hour in length. In small chunks, singles, this is more than fine.

Nov 26 2025

It shows that when things are kept simple they can still feel fresh for a long time. Nicely woven stories telegraphed in the title of the album.

Run-D.M.C. by Run-D.M.C.
Nov 27 2025

Bizarrely this sounds quite novel for today but it does test the patience. The same vocal style, deliberate I know, over various musical motifs, twiddle or crash bang.

My Generation by The Who
Dec 01 2025

This is a pretty mixed offering but just about worthy of being on the list. Other than the singles which get played would never have known that their early work was varied. On a number songs, the covers in particular you wouldn't know that it was The Who.

We're Only In It For The Money by The Mothers Of Invention
Dec 04 2025

Wickedly silly but lacking lengthy meaningful musical sections. Difficult to imagine when this would ever get played.

Liege And Lief by Fairport Convention
Dec 05 2025

What a sparkling example of English folk/rock. Striking vocals and bristling musicianship.

1989 by Taylor Swift
Dec 08 2025
Dec 09 2025

Beaten into submission over the years to recognise it as an important album. Not been keen on the band. Saw the band tour the album and it was something of a bore. It just didn't seem to work in a massive space. However it seemed to be on constant play on late night french radio and through that began to appreciate the depth.

Dec 15 2025

This definitely outstays its welcome. After a few songs the pattern is well established but doesn't stretch to any interesting which the length of the songs would suggest. Pleasant enough in small doses.

Ocean Rain by Echo And The Bunnymen
Dec 24 2025

Only know the band through the singles. This is a strong offering showing a lot more. Pretty well produced and the track ordering works well.

Dec 25 2025

In a bar this might sound fine. At home it is lacks any finesse and sounds dated.

Bright Flight by Silver Jews
Dec 29 2025

After a rather turgid start this progress into something with substantial legs. Certainly worth revisiting.

Arular by M.I.A.
Jan 05 2026

Bouncy and catchy all the way through. And that's the problem. It doesn't evolve or show any real depth.

Heroes by David Bowie
Jan 07 2026
Maverick A Strike by Finley Quaye
Jan 09 2026

Such a disappointment. Not heard anything by this artist. Started with some promise but didn't go anywhere and you;d be better off with the simple mainstream style.

Clube Da Esquina by Milton Nascimento
Jan 12 2026

Bright and sort of novel but it was too long. The tunes were good and the deliver excellent. A definite feel of the time it was recorded. Probably worthy of being in the list for awareness.

Pornography by The Cure
Jan 26 2026

Years since I heard this album. Not as strong as it seemed years ago. The hallmarks are there but only a few songs are very strong.

Jan 28 2026

A lot of diddling and jiggling in this entertaining collection of pop songs. Glorious bouncy fun at the time.

Kala by M.I.A.
Jan 30 2026
Live / Dead by Grateful Dead
Feb 04 2026

Another pointless list entry. Difficult to see anything new that this live offering brings. Long and plodding version. Probably good to have been there but really the recorded albums are more interesting.

Pet Sounds by The Beach Boys
Feb 05 2026

Bought the album on cassette for the low-fi version of a supposed hi-fi masterwork. This was a decade after seeing the band live. It is a marvellous piece of work, the song craft is exemplary, the harmonies a delight,. But there is just something not right :- is it too perfect, making it jar at points.

Darklands by The Jesus And Mary Chain
Feb 23 2026
Paris 1919 by John Cale
Feb 24 2026

An ambitious album that is inconsistent and lacking memorable songs. The song structures are fine and there is a strong nod to the past. The production and instrumentation is good. The vocal variation is expected and on occasion is really off.

Five Leaves Left by Nick Drake
Feb 26 2026

Known of the album since around the time of its release. Finally bought a copy on CD some 30 years ago. On the surface appears a simple very british collection. However it belies some fine song structures and playing elevated with light touch production.

Guero by Beck
Mar 06 2026
Movies by Holger Czukay
Mar 10 2026

There's a lot packed in. For the majority it is well crafted and works. There are passages where it strays too far and grates.

Low-Life by New Order
Mar 13 2026

The sense of separation from JD is probably complete here. The album is good, has some strong elements but fails to provide anything to set the band apart from others. There are echoes of the Cure, Depeche Mode. The vocals are a weak point, when on point it feels 'in tune' but more often it is not. The rhythm section does not disappoint while some of the synthesizer frills are awful.

Headquarters by The Monkees
Mar 25 2026

Maybe one of the 1001 TV shows to watch but definitely not one for this list.

Venus Luxure No. 1 Baby by Girls Against Boys
Mar 27 2026

Nice collections of intros but with nothing to follow as the mood is shafter by the singer.

Mott by Mott The Hoople
Mar 30 2026
Gasoline Alley by Rod Stewart
Apr 10 2026

The choice of songs combined with arrangements identifies this as a RS record even though many of the faces are the same. Not sure any of his albums warrant a place on the list. This one like many of his others in the early seventies has some great songs but the collection is uneven.

Hard Again by Muddy Waters
Apr 13 2026

Is this on the list for comparison with his earlier work? Those would the candidates. This collection is very good, a reworking of songs with better, tighter production. Done to open blues to a new audience. It works.

Green Onions by Booker T. & The MG's
Apr 20 2026

A dip in and out album. Definite jamm type feel. The choice of covers odd with a number losing intensity with a vocal.

Remedy by Basement Jaxx
Apr 22 2026
May 04 2026

All the hallmarks of the band are there still being refined. A tad uneven. Some excellent songs, others can be skipped.

May 06 2026

We probably all need a lie down after experiencing this offering. The concept is ok but overly long. No faulting the musicianship but it lacks a sparkle.

Time Out by The Dave Brubeck Quartet
May 08 2026

Quaffable syncopated foot-tapping joy.

The Madcap Laughs by Syd Barrett
May 21 2026

There probably is merit in this being on the list. Does it showcase a loss to PF or enable them to become boring farts? Whatever; this album is shambolic, demonstrating that no one was in control. There is some inspired stuff but it is rare. Out of tune vocals, discordant instrumentation. It does make for easy listening.

Heavy Weather by Weather Report
May 25 2026

This flows along amiably offering little to break out from being a background sound.

Jun 03 2026

An entertaining collection to introduce the band. The writing is good, the production ok. Maybe could have been a single album.

Perfectionist

Only 2% of albums received 5 stars. Average rating: 2.88.

Other

Album origins are grouped into three buckets: US, UK, and everything else. “Other” means the artists you rate highest are from outside the US and UK.