1001 Albums Summary

Listening statistics & highlights

150
Albums Rated
3.4
Average Rating
14%
Complete
939 albums remaining

Rating Distribution

Rating Timeline

Taste Profile

2000
Favorite Decade
Blues
Favorite Genre
Other
Top Origin ?
Wordsmith
Rater Style ?
15
5-Star Albums
1
1-Star Albums

Breakdown

By Genre

Top Styles

By Decade

By Origin

Albums

You Love More Than Most

AlbumYouGlobalDiff
Greetings From L.A.
Tim Buckley
5 2.84 +2.16
Tuesday Night Music Club
Sheryl Crow
5 3.06 +1.94
Life's Too Good
The Sugarcubes
5 3.07 +1.93
Legalize It
Peter Tosh
5 3.08 +1.92
The College Dropout
Kanye West
5 3.31 +1.69
Live Through This
Hole
5 3.32 +1.68
Crime Of The Century
Supertramp
5 3.4 +1.6
Zombie
Fela Kuti
5 3.46 +1.54
Moss Side Story
Barry Adamson
4 2.52 +1.48
At Newport 1960
Muddy Waters
5 3.53 +1.47

You Love Less Than Most

AlbumYouGlobalDiff
Go Girl Crazy
The Dictators
1 2.84 -1.84
Brothers In Arms
Dire Straits
2 3.73 -1.73
Coat Of Many Colors
Dolly Parton
2 3.41 -1.41
Beauty And The Beat
The Go-Go's
2 3.39 -1.39
Pornography
The Cure
2 3.32 -1.32
This Year's Model
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
2 3.31 -1.31
B-52's
The B-52's
2 3.3 -1.3
The Chronic
Dr. Dre
2 3.3 -1.3
The Beach Boys Today!
The Beach Boys
2 3.26 -1.26
Protection
Massive Attack
2 3.24 -1.24

5-Star Albums (15)

View Album Wall

Popular Reviews

Life's Too Good by The Sugarcubes

Wow. Didn’t know what I was getting myself into. The album art sets the mood and they never back down. Once I found my bearings after motor crash I really loved this one. Similar feel to B52s but edgier, stronger delivery and more energy. Incredible lead female vocals on birthday, delicious demon, mama then great duet chemistry in sick for toys and delicious demon. Great rock/new wave instrumentals. No bad songs really.

At Newport 1960 by Muddy Waters

Fun fast and influential Blues delivered with plenty of mojo. Stellar drums guitar and harp throughout. Got my brand in you, I feel so good, got my mojo working

Legalize It by Peter Tosh

Wow. Such a great reggae album. Love the cadence and delivery on the vocals. Incredible instrumentals and backup vocals. Great lyrics and storytelling from the case for legal weed to good vs evil to loyalty and fleeting beauty. Compelling and various composition throughout. Never stale reggae sound. Burial, whatcha gonna do, why must I cry, legalize it.

The College Dropout by Kanye West

Kanye at his best.. thoughtful lyrics, tight rhymes and spotless beats/samples. Hard to believe his level of awareness and introspection at this time. You can feel a sense of relief and appreciation for those that contributed to him getting a shot. Love the skits, interviews and features which add to the already monster production value. All falls down, spaceship, never let me down, through the wire

Hunky Dory by David Bowie

Excellent album top to bottom with great music and clever lyrics describing life and society. Wide variety of themes and styles but it still builds momentum from one song to the next. Changes. Oh you pretty things, life on Mars, kooks, fill your heart. Andy Warhol.

1-Star Albums (1)

All Ratings (150)

Brothers In Arms by Dire Straits
May 06 2021

Some relaxing/smooth listening jam songs/riffs. Still don’t love their hits. Maybe money for nothing.

May 07 2021

Really enjoyed Jobim’s guitar and lyrics. Pleasant instrumentals backed Sinatra throughout but there was very little energy in his vocals. Less playful or confident than you would expect from him. Good dinner time record.

The Hissing Of Summer Lawns by Joni Mitchell
May 09 2021

Detailed storytelling with pointed lyrics. A few cool experimental tracks. Not overly impressed with the the music.

Shaft by Isaac Hayes
May 10 2021

Enjoyed more than expected for a soundtrack. Very cool.

Tracy Chapman by Tracy Chapman
May 11 2021

Great storytelling with deep, personal lyrics delivered with strong vocals and compelling music.

Jagged Little Pill by Alanis Morissette
May 12 2021

A few bangers anchored by You Oughta Know but a few duds too.

The Predator by Ice Cube
May 13 2021

Great beats samples and references laced throughout. Direct and mostly consistent message following RK delivered with poignant lyrics and supported by well-placed interviews/broadcasts. A few more playful songs sprinkled in kept it lighter without distracting too much.

Melodrama by Lorde
May 14 2021

Solid pop album with some catchy songs and thoughtful lyrics. Not really for me.

xx by The xx
May 15 2021

Happy to see this one on here. Smooth beats and raw subdued vocals make for a unique sound and a great listen. The duo play off each other perfectly adding a dynamic of conflict and then cooperation to the lyrics.

Hypocrisy Is The Greatest Luxury by The Disposable Heroes Of Hiphoprisy
May 16 2021

Wow. Powerful, direct, and fearless lyrics that were also philosophical and, at times, prophetic. Starting with satanic verses Tv and Garage beats with a unique sound.

Can't Buy A Thrill by Steely Dan
May 17 2021

Stacked with hits. Great listen for a Sunday morning.

Fuzzy Logic by Super Furry Animals
May 18 2021

Not quite what I was looking for. I like worse music than this but did not like this.

Copper Blue by Sugar
May 19 2021

Did nothing special for me. Not sure where this fits in. Basic instrumentals, vocals and lyrics. Had the nineties sound without the nostalgia.

Moss Side Story by Barry Adamson
May 20 2021

Would watch this movie in a heartbeat. Started out creepy on the wrong side of relaxation and settled into classic Hollywood scores. Interesting listen.

The White Album by Beatles
May 21 2021

I feel a little indoctrinated already but hits are hits and there were too many to ignore. This album went from cringe to experimental to pop classics and was both fun and foundational throughout. Was very long with many songs that lacked much cohesion or flow.

In A Silent Way by Miles Davis
May 22 2021

Nice progression across just two long tracks. Nice listen and great to relax, think, work.

My Aim Is True by Elvis Costello
May 23 2021

Enjoyed this. Not very familiar before

The Low End Theory by A Tribe Called Quest
May 24 2021

Strong beats, flow and samples but wasn’t as convinced by all of the lyrics. Fun album but prefer a little more message or theme from the early nineties. Enjoyed scenario and check the rhime.

Crime Of The Century by Supertramp
May 25 2021

Great album top to bottom. School, bloody well right, Asylum and so on. Great instrumentals on piano, harmonica, guitar etc accompanied by big vocals ands sharp lyrics. Will definitely revisit this for some new favorite ST songs.

461 Ocean Boulevard by Eric Clapton
May 26 2021

Huge variety with Rock, blues, folk and funk sounds. Can’t hold out, steady rolling man, please be with me. Not too fancy, just smooth delivery by a cool dude.

That's The Way Of The World by Earth, Wind & Fire
May 27 2021

Funky, fresh and upbeat. Found myself a little fatigued on some songs that have found their way to ad campaigns but more power to them. May not come back for another full listen for a while but still enjoyed it today

Car Wheels On A Gravel Road by Lucinda Williams
May 28 2021

Vocals were angst vs twang. This warmed on me and I appreciated it more than I expected. Decent story telling and solid folk instrumental backing.

At Fillmore East by The Allman Brothers Band
May 29 2021

Good live album from a favorite band. Thought this would be a fiver from the get-go but wasn’t as convinced when listening. Great vocals and drum/guitar work but something about the audio quality was distracting compared to other live albums of the time. Appreciate the credits tot he song writers, not a lot of interaction beyond that.

Djam Leelii by Baaba Maal
May 31 2021

Great instrumentals, nice to work to.

Parallel Lines by Blondie
Jun 01 2021

Liked picture this, hanging on the tele. A bit repetitive on the instrumentals and underwhelming lyrics.

Jun 02 2021

Lot of solid head bangers. Started out strong with it’s on, freak on a leash, got the life. Less convinced with some of the raps/ monologues/limp bizkit beef but overall enjoyed the album.

Master Of Puppets by Metallica
Jun 03 2021

Great album with no bad songs. Battery, MOP, Sanatarium. Excellent guitar, drums and vocals throughout. Substantive, thoughtful lyrics yelled at you until you get it.

The Sensual World by Kate Bush
Jun 04 2021

Not a bad listen and maybe better the second time. Broad emotional range but less vocal variety. Needs to be listened to loud to catch the lyrics. This woman’s work, love and anger and let’s of Rockets tail are highlights.

Apocalypse Dudes by Turbonegro
Jun 05 2021

Would make for a fun concert or garage band jam session. Sound quality, sophomoric lyrics and repetitive woahs wore on me.

Highway to Hell by AC/DC
Jun 06 2021

I’ve cooled a bit on AC/DC over the years but this album rocks. Power vocals, timeless lyrics and killer instrumentation. This was one of the first albums I owned and it’s held up well.

B-52's by The B-52's
Jun 07 2021

Not for me. I appreciate the energy and some of the rhythms/instrumentals but can’t get into it. The kitschy lyrics and delivery were overplayed and wore on me. 52 Girls is the closest to a highlight Rock Lobster a low.

Abbey Road by Beatles
Jun 08 2021

These guys are always tough to rate - sometimes giving too much credit other times not enough. Either way, I enjoyed this one which included some real hits along with some quirkier songs. I preferred the rock side to the fantasy or folk on this album compared to others. Come together, something, carry that weight.

Hunky Dory by David Bowie
Jun 09 2021

Excellent album top to bottom with great music and clever lyrics describing life and society. Wide variety of themes and styles but it still builds momentum from one song to the next. Changes. Oh you pretty things, life on Mars, kooks, fill your heart. Andy Warhol.

Jun 10 2021

Nicely progresses from jazzy smooth jam session to rock/jazz fusion with organ looming to acoustic folk storytelling. Empty Pages, glad, every mother’s son.

The Slim Shady LP by Eminem
Jun 11 2021

Listening feels like playing two truths and a lie but still makes me wonder more about his experience which is the mark of a good story-teller. Not as refined or cohesive as other albums of his but great lyrics and very compelling. Gritty raw reflective dark violent. Guilty conscience, brain Damage, role model.

The Rise & Fall by Madness
Jun 12 2021

Punk overtones and vocals interlaced with brass band, Old time piano, harmonica vibrato. Very madhouse/Tim burton/haunted mansion feel. Fun and interesting listen. Rise and fall, mr speaker, tomorrow’s just another day.

Club Classics Vol. One by Soul II Soul
Jun 13 2021

Great rhythms and beats throughout. Nice vocals, some interesting lyrics. Holdin on, keep on movin, happiness, jazzies groove

Pretzel Logic by Steely Dan
Jun 14 2021

Always a good listen but lacks the fire power if some of their other albums. Night by night, east St. Louis

Jun 15 2021

Pretty chill listen mostly with a few more erratic songs. Mellow tunes flow beneath some grungier blasé lyrics. Floating in space, think I’m in love, stay with me

Five Leaves Left by Nick Drake
Jun 16 2021

Lovely sound with impressive guitar work and supporting instrumentals including piano bongos and maracas. Didn’t love the vocal style but appreciated the thoughtful lyrics

Midnight Ride by Paul Revere & The Raiders
Jun 26 2021

Displayed some themes that other bands would build on later but despite that this album didn’t do much for me on its own. Repetitive melodies and trite lyrics.

Exile On Main Street by The Rolling Stones
Jun 27 2021

Really enjoyed this. Not as familiar with these songs as other stones albums but it checked al their boxes. Tumbling dice, sweet Virginia, happy

Go Girl Crazy by The Dictators
Jun 28 2021

I feel dumber for listening.. Sketch style covers of 60s/70s contemporary pop (California sun/I got you babe) with bizarre originals (back to Africa/master race/etc). Maybe I just don’t get it

Jun 30 2021

Solid listen and better the second time around. Strong Coldplay vibes. Pounding was the highlight followed by there goes the fear and last broadcast.

Life's Too Good by The Sugarcubes
Jul 01 2021

Wow. Didn’t know what I was getting myself into. The album art sets the mood and they never back down. Once I found my bearings after motor crash I really loved this one. Similar feel to B52s but edgier, stronger delivery and more energy. Incredible lead female vocals on birthday, delicious demon, mama then great duet chemistry in sick for toys and delicious demon. Great rock/new wave instrumentals. No bad songs really.

Pornography by The Cure
Aug 14 2021

Looking at this album from today’s vantage point it comes off a little underwhelming. The vocals are monotonous and whiny and the reflections on death, dying and meaninglessness seem mostly banal. I’ve seen this done better. That said I appreciate some of the drum work and layering with guitar/bass, kb/synth and will look to give the cure another try to see if they live up more to the hype. + Hanging garden, one hundred years

Cypress Hill by Cypress Hill
Aug 15 2021

Good samples, lyrical variety with different deliveries demonstrated from song to song. Lyrical themes start off generally focused on taking tough and exacting punishment, especially on pigs, then transitions to blazing after ultraviolet dreams, offering a lighter tone to the album before finishing funky. Leans heavily on repeated choruses but the strengths are the verses. Distinct nasally vocals are occasionally distracting. Pigs, kill a man, phuncky feel one, Latin lingo

Tea for the Tillerman by Cat Stevens
Aug 16 2021

Cat Stevens reflects on the world in front of him as he sees it, asking fundamental questions and offering humble advice. He tends to come at you slowly and then all at once with a jolt of emotion as if his patience has run out. It’s during these 0-60 moments with this sense that he’s betrayed or surprised himself with outburst that he carries a unique sincerity. Where do the children play. Miles from nowhere. On the road to find out.

Bitte Orca by Dirty Projectors
Aug 17 2021

Chaotic eclectic sporadic fun. Build ups followed by sudden drops. Smooth guitar work interrupted perfectly by the crash of a cymbal then followed by intentional offbeat drum solos and it all works. Wonderfully unintelligible cannons and echos and dynamic duets between two strong vocalists. Bold new sound seems right here and I will definitely seek them out for more like this. Very unique sound. Cannibal resource, Temecula sunrise, remade horizons, stillness is the move

BEYONCÉ by Beyoncé
Aug 18 2021

Big beats with heavy bass. Good intro clips and rap interludes. Strong range demonstrated with vocals and styles rap, soul, r/b. Impressive features and remixes on platinum edition. Pretty hurts, drunk in love, Jealous, flawless, heaven, ring off

The Clash by The Clash
Aug 25 2021

Album really shines after a few listens when the lyrics begin to come through to yankees like me. Classic punk with a lot to say about politics society and culture. Been a while since I listened to a full Clash album but it delivers more of a punch for me than one off listens of songs like London calling or fought the law etc. Janie Jones, Remote control, white riot, police and thieves 3.5

Private Dancer by Tina Turner
Aug 26 2021

Ended up on the very extended 30th anniversary edition and had to take a look at the more manageable original track list. Nothing extraordinary beyond what’s love got to do. Impressive vocals but mediocre supporting music for most of the album. What’s love got to do, let’s stay together, better be good to me

Live At The Star Club, Hamburg by Jerry Lee Lewis
Aug 27 2021

Questionable choices from JLL but also undeniable talent. Sounds like an epic concert with tons of energy.

Kenya by Machito
Aug 28 2021

Great big band jazz music heavy on percussion with cuban and Caribbean influence. Felt like a soundtrack for a three old oceans 11 or another fifties Hollywood blockbuster. Great for the background while cooking or cleaning.

Tidal by Fiona Apple
Aug 29 2021

Raw thoughtful lyrics delivered by strong vocals backed by classic piano. Edgy at times with hints of Alanis Morissette. Sleep to dream, shadowboxer, slow like honey

Lazer Guided Melodies by Spiritualized
Aug 30 2021

Cool sounds but not much cohesion. I previously listened to their Ladies and gentlemen we are floating in space on here and I think I preferred that to this. This attempt becomes more background noise and although relaxing in its ethereal sound it doesn’t have much to sink your teeth into. Lyrics are definitely set back to the music and are easily missed. Somewhat of a video game soundtrack at times. If I were with her now, run, 200 bars

Viva Hate by Morrissey
Aug 31 2021

Just not The Smiths. A little more whiny vocally and less rhythmic and lyrical depth. Kind of wears on you. Suedehead, Late night

Sep 01 2021

Very eighties with heavy synthesizer and some new wave/dance melodies. A handful of potential hits including promised you a miracle and someone somewhere. Others didn’t stand up as well and seemed to lack direction. Promised you a miracle, Hunter and the hunted

Here Are the Sonics by The Sonics
Sep 03 2021

Lots of raw energy with descent guitar and piano work laced throughout. Protopunk vocals and garage band style with some classic rock and roll riffs. Strong cover of good golly miss Molly too close out. Dirty robber, have love will travel, money, nighttime is the right time, good golly

Will The Circle Be Unbroken by Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
Sep 04 2021

Great collection of classic country and blue grass with snip-bits of conversation between artists during production. Carried the feeling of a documentary of a old time jam session among some great musicians. Very long listen and took me a while to get though but interesting nonetheless.

Fisherman's Blues by The Waterboys
Sep 05 2021

Folksy and timeless fishing town tales with impressive fiddle/banjo and rough worn vocals. Fisherman’s blues, strange boat, the stolen child.

Great classic punk rock album. Could hear generations of bands to follow in the guitar/drum riffs and angst riddled lyrics. Holiday in the sun, anarchy in the UK, New York

Da Capo by Love
Sep 07 2021

Nice melodies and musicianship with solid recording quality for it’s time. Nothing overly compelling beyond the last song though to keep my interest. Some protopunk and folk vibes. Revelation, Orange Skies.

Foxbase Alpha by Saint Etienne
Sep 08 2021

Cool beats and samples make for a chill listen to work or relax to. Some euro club vibes at times mixed with light pop lyrics. Only love can beak your heart, Spring, people get real. 3.5

Supa Dupa Fly by Missy Elliott
Sep 30 2021

A Lot of shout outs to timbaland and rightly so since the beats and production do shine. Otherwise less firepower than some of missys later stuff I’m more familiar with but I appreciate her range from dropping bars to soul/reggae. Solid features with lol Kim, Busta, Aliyah Sock it to me, the rain, pass da blunt

The Visitors by ABBA
Oct 01 2021

Solid variety of style and themes but front heavy with the hits. Some experimental sounds and voice effects feel appropriate for the early eighties. They deliver upbeat as well as anyone but had some solid slower/reflective jams to. The visitors, head over heels, when all is said and done, soldiers, one of us. 3.5

L.A. Woman by The Doors
Oct 02 2021

Excellent Blues & Rock album. Thought I knew the Doors better than I really did but learned a lot listening to this in full. Love the blues instrumentals and the vocal repetitions/build ups. Plenty of energy and emotion. The changeling, been down so long, LA women 4.5

Want Two by Rufus Wainwright
Oct 03 2021

Really enjoyed on second listen. Interesting sound with classical strings and orchestra over modern lyrics. Creative verses with introspective reflections delivered by strong vocals (also grew on me on second listen). Broad variety of styles throughout. Agnus Dei, the art teacher, this love affair, crumb by crumb, old whores diet

Parklife by Blur
Oct 04 2021

Much greater range demonstrated here beyond what I knew from Song 2, both vocals/instrumentals. Girls and boys, Badhead, to the end,

Kind Of Blue by Miles Davis
Oct 05 2021

Beautiful jazz album that ranges from fun and uptempo to emotional. Layering of bass strings, piano, trumpet and sax all keeping time with drums and cymbals. Covers multiple tempos that can feel like a fast conversation or argument like in So what to a somber reflection of blues in green. Amazing musicianship across the board. So what, All blues, flamenco sketches

Scum by Napalm Death
Oct 06 2021

Seriously impressive metal riffs and drum work but the vocals were insurmountable, in my opinion. Album would have been fun without lyrics but i found the muffled yelling and in later tracks screaming to be distracting and then punishing.

Our Aim Is To Satisfy by Red Snapper
Oct 07 2021

Nice beats, samples and effects. Very y2k sound reminiscent of some video game soundtracks around the time. Keeping pigs together, The Rake, Alaska street

Closer by Joy Division
Oct 08 2021

Interesting composition, pretty weak monotone vocals don’t hold up to the music or lyrics.

Sea Change by Beck
Oct 09 2021

Nice acoustics and composition. Often hard to distinguish songs from another due to similar pace and tone. Feels like a rainy day blues kind of record and maybe a decent one. Curious to see if Beck has other dimensions. Paper tiger, end of the day, Sonny Sunday, little one

Oct 10 2021

Dynamic live performance by a generational talent. The energy was palpable through the audio as he worked the audience like few can. I can only imagine his moves were equally electric.

Protection by Massive Attack
Oct 11 2021

Decent 90s electronica/trip hop. Good downtempo beats and solid female vocals. Nice range of genres. Checked out and preferred both mezzanine and blue lines after.

Marcus Garvey by Burning Spear
Oct 12 2021

Great classic reggae sound with strong anti-colonial, pro-black unity lyrics. Frequent use of echo/repetition of hooks by back up vocals for emphasis. Island drums/instruments mixed with brass/wind, with funky bass.

The Beach Boys Today! by The Beach Boys
Oct 13 2021

Not a huge fan already and this is lacking some of the energy and firepower of their standard hits. Nothing much special to me about this selection. Help me Rhonda?

Court And Spark by Joni Mitchell
Oct 14 2021

Still great storytelling about finding love and finding yourself but more energy and an upgraded musical delivery compated to Hissing of summer lawns. More funk/grooove/rock vibes. Help me, free man in Paris, Raised on Robbery 3.5

Oct 15 2021

Love the Pogues. Great range of Irish rock, traditional jig, and one favorite Xmas carol. Great vocals and music from winds, accordion, strings and percussion. Bottle of smoke, fairytale, streets of sorrow, Irish rover

Revolver by Beatles
Oct 16 2021

Tighter than the white album but fewer standouts songs too. Very innovative and experimental sounds with some lyrical prowess as well. Great production and arrangements with interesting melodies. A few duds IMO in yellow sub, dr Robert etc but also a few gems I wasn’t previously familiar. I’m only sleeping, and your bird can sing, for no one, got to get you into my life.

The Message by Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five
Oct 17 2021

Huge range of influential sound and styles. Disco, hip hop, r&b, electronica, soul. Some classic beats (Scorpio/message) and verses (message) as well some epic mixes (Adventure). Scorpio (higher/lower), message

Arise by Sepultura
Oct 18 2021

Spotless metal riffs and drum sequences, palatable vocals Arise, under siege

The College Dropout by Kanye West
Oct 19 2021

Kanye at his best.. thoughtful lyrics, tight rhymes and spotless beats/samples. Hard to believe his level of awareness and introspection at this time. You can feel a sense of relief and appreciation for those that contributed to him getting a shot. Love the skits, interviews and features which add to the already monster production value. All falls down, spaceship, never let me down, through the wire

Led Zeppelin III by Led Zeppelin
Oct 20 2021

Great display of folk and rock blending tinny folk acoustics with heavier rock riffs and drums. Not the album that brings me home but a refreshing and impressive collection from one of the greatest with some classics snuck in. 4.49 Friends, Out on the tiles, gallows pole, tangerine

Bridge Over Troubled Water by Simon & Garfunkel
Oct 23 2021

Less cohesive than bookends or sounds of silence but interesting compositions (el condor, Cecilia, the boxer) and unique transitions (customer satisfied). These two love making music together and it’s always fun and interesting from soft melodies to large crescendos or cannons. Bridge over, el condor, the boxer,

Duck Rock by Malcolm McLaren
Oct 24 2021

What in the world. Very interesting album with cartoony square dance intro and extro sandwiching a hip hop call-in show featuring ‘scratches that make you itch’, hot beats/raps, merengue and traditional African music. Enjoyed the concept and commentary. Overall fun/unique but not sure what to make of the final product. Double Dutch, punk it up, Jove my baby

Blood And Chocolate by Elvis Costello & The Attractions
Oct 25 2021

On the occasion of decent music Elvis’ voice cuts in as either whiny or droning. Not convinced by the lyrics.

Bad Company by Bad Company
Oct 26 2021

Solid classic rock album stacked with hits. Surprised by the Southern rock undertones with occasional allman bros vibes. Great composition that usually falls back to a relaxed smooth pace with some solos laced in. Can’t get enough, ready for love, don’t let me down, bad co.

Tragic Songs of Life by The Louvin Brothers
Oct 27 2021

Interesting peek into early country/blue grass. Impressive musicianship and timeless lyrics. Vocal style can wear on you but the banjo holds strong.

Who's Next by The Who
Oct 30 2021

Somehow had not listened to this album in its entirety but have heard all the pieces separately. Baba o’riley which has felt stale for a while gained new life for me as the intro song to this epic collection. Strong bass lines, drum solos and vocals throughout and experimental sounds woven in. Behind Blue Eyes, the song is over, won’t get fooled again 4.4

Legalize It by Peter Tosh
Oct 31 2021

Wow. Such a great reggae album. Love the cadence and delivery on the vocals. Incredible instrumentals and backup vocals. Great lyrics and storytelling from the case for legal weed to good vs evil to loyalty and fleeting beauty. Compelling and various composition throughout. Never stale reggae sound. Burial, whatcha gonna do, why must I cry, legalize it.

Vento De Maio by Elis Regina
Nov 01 2021

Great vocals and arrangement with catchy melodies, despite language barrier.

Daydream Nation by Sonic Youth
Nov 02 2021

Great early grunge sounds supported by solid music throughout but I’m a sucker for vocals and both male/female leads are lacking. Great instrumentals, good variety of sounds, decent garage band lyrics.

Shaka Zulu by Ladysmith Black Mambazo
Nov 03 2021

You love ladysmith black mabazo. And for good reason. Wonderful choruses building momentum with turns and cannons. Authentic unsacrificing sound with beautiful lyrics. When the sun says goodnight to the mountain.

Trafalgar by Bee Gees
Jan 04 2022

Stiff and flat through most of the album with occasionally clanky arrangements and some awkward sounds or forced percussions. Highlights lion in winter, maybe trafalgar where vocals seemed more natural and composition more sharp.

Nebraska by Bruce Springsteen
Jan 05 2022

Gritty folk to a hard harmonica and acoustic guitar. Lyrics struggle with morality and tough choices at the margins of blue collar life. Love the drawl of Nebraska intro with an American the beautiful feel and Falsetto open of Johnny 99. Different version of Atlantic City for me sounded a little faster and tinnier but still delivers. Nice storytelling on patrolman and trooper. Nebraska, Atlantic City, mansion on the hill.

Roots by Sepultura
Jan 06 2022

The music was tight. Impressive drums, instrumentals and tribal percussions. Pretty strong vocals with mostly intelligible lyrics. Interludes/extro add a different pace with itsari, canyon jam.

Orbital 2 by Orbital
Jan 07 2022

Cool beats with a variety of sounds from industrial to ethereal to electronic. Interesting intro/extro samples. In/out drive me nuts but made me think. Planet of the shapes, Lush, Monday, halcyon and on and on

1999 by Prince
Jan 08 2022

Very 1980s sound for 1999. Heavy synth, voice effects, electro drum beats. Funky at times such as dsmr. Strong lead and backup vocals including duet to start 1999. Lyrics focus on sex, wealth and parties with lurking sub text of violence, destruction, end of days. 1999, Delerious, DSMR, little red corvette

Coat Of Many Colors by Dolly Parton
Jan 09 2022

Nice storytelling mostly about her momma (making her coats and her stealing men) as well as a Pre-curser to Jolene. No real standouts.

Hounds Of Love by Kate Bush
Jan 10 2022

Liked the composition of the first three tracks and a few other uptempo songs mixed in but some others felt stiff. Very involved production which outshined vocals with interesting selections of classical meets pop meets synth and Irish jig. vocals were somewhat limited in range but were similarly experimental. Improved a bit on second listen. Running up that hill, Blue Sky, cloud busting. 3.5

At Newport 1960 by Muddy Waters
Jan 11 2022

Fun fast and influential Blues delivered with plenty of mojo. Stellar drums guitar and harp throughout. Got my brand in you, I feel so good, got my mojo working

Jan 12 2022

Youthful upbeat sound compared to later Waters/Gilmore PF. Reminiscent more of zombies, animals, cream etc just a bit more psychedelic. Already very experimental with voice and recording effects as well as extended clatter (bike) à la money or time intros. Not the cleanest editing with some (intentionally?) choppy cuts here and there. Interstellar overdrive is right. Take up my stethoscope and walk, scarecrow, bike

Group Sex by Circle Jerks
Jan 13 2022

Wow quickies the whole way - 20 tracks in 20 mins. Reminds me of bands in high school that would play short hitters that sounds nearly identical and repeat. Music style and format were very consistent through. Pace varied occasionally. No real standouts but no real duds either, just pretty straightforward garage punk.

Songs Of Leonard Cohen by Leonard Cohen
Jan 14 2022

Pleasant tales of love and love lost to beautiful acoustic and Spanish guitar. Raw, reflective lyrics throughout but limited vocal range or variety.

Morrison Hotel by The Doors
Jan 15 2022

Starts out Bluesy with, well, Roadhouse Blues - this is the Doors at their best for me. Steady rhythm with commanding vocals and big time harmonica. After roadhouse it dabbles with a few styles and recording effects including old time keys/organ and distortion. Highlights RH Blues, Peace Frog, Maggie MGill. Not as tight as LA woman but still a great listen altogether.

Colour By Numbers by Culture Club
Jan 16 2022

Nothing extraordinary. Upbeat eighties pop including karma chameleon. Nice harmonies but basic/kitschy lyrics.

Pacific Ocean Blue by Dennis Wilson
Jan 17 2022

Maybe nitpicking but I liked the individual components here more than the sum of the parts. Enjoyed a lot of fragments and songs from piano/choir, to funk/blues/rock more than the whole album experience. Perhaps not as cohesive as it could have been. Nice instrumentals throughout, really outshined the vocals. Some BB vibes, PF, RS as well. River song, dreamer, time, rainbow.

The Band by The Band
Jan 18 2022

Excellent storytelling mostly about the south of past/present supported by folk, blues, and rock rhythms. Old timey sound with classic keys/organ and guitar up front with commanding drums and bass turned way up. Funky finish with King Harvest. Real focus on building a scene with characters and details. Drove old Dixie down, cripple creek, jawbone

Beauty And The Beat by The Go-Go's
Jan 19 2022

Some promising songs (the town, fading fast) but overall has an immature, underdeveloped sound. Up tempo is a hair too fast, underwhelming vocals aim for edginess but falling short. I can see the relevance of the album but don’t love the delivery.

Scream, Dracula, Scream by Rocket From The Crypt
Jan 20 2022

A lot of energy throughout the album. Limited vocals but decent instrumentals. Ska meets punk sound with brass mixed into drum/electric on most songs. Not the worst thing to listen to but probably won’t come back to this. Ball Lightening, Born in 69, On a Rope 2.5

The Chronic by Dr. Dre
Jan 21 2022

Had higher hopes for this but the Chronic fell flat. One dimensional lyrics that push an image but lack much creativity or cohesive message. Solid beats and occasional samples but little depth in the raps or skits.

The Velvet Underground & Nico by The Velvet Underground
Jan 26 2022

Great album. Very experimental sound with use of heavy distortion, interruption and varied pace. Various styles/delivery: psychedelic, r/b, rock. Good songwriting to understated vocals esp heroin/femme fatale. Heroin is definitely the standout track which I hadn’t heard before; clear representation of his experience through building chaos and clamor. Solid top to bottom. Femme fetal, waiting for the man, heroin, there she goes again 4.6

Dig Your Own Hole by The Chemical Brothers
Jan 27 2022

Cool tracks, cool beats. 90s video game/matrix soundtrack vibes with some trip hop style electronica with overlay of repeated lyrics.

The Wall by Pink Floyd
Jan 28 2022

Greatest album of all time and one of best reflections on the human condition. An introspective and vulnerable view of lost innocence, misplaced trust, and survival in a world that doesn’t seem to care about you or your feelings . Therapy on vinyl.

Out Of The Blue by Electric Light Orchestra
Jan 29 2022

Felt a little corny/70s disco at first but really enjoyed this overall. While the early songs were very similar - albeit solid - much more variety later in this extended album with touches of disco, blues, progressive, old-tyme etc. Good lead vocals and I got used to the falsetto backup vocals. It’s over, jungle, sweet talon woman, stepping out Beatles, ST, PF, BGs, bowie, Dylan sounds 3.7

British Steel by Judas Priest
Jan 30 2022

Classic heavy metal. Lots of familiar riffs and solos that are still being replicated. Big time vocals although a little overly emphatic/theatrical at times fire my taste. The rage, steeler 3.8

To Pimp A Butterfly by Kendrick Lamar
Jan 31 2022

Wasn’t feeling this after the first two tracks but from King Kunta it turned a hard corner and kept building through the end. Went back and listened to the first two again after finishing and had a different perspective. Not sure of the backstories of Lucy/rival beef/abusing power dynamics but enjoyed the theme building with reveals after each song. Great hooks and lyrics, good classics r/b samples, beats, social commentary etc. Shit don’t change till you wash yo ass. 4.1

No Other by Gene Clark
Jan 06 2023

Pleasant musically but somewhat boring lyrically/vocally. Transitions from country to progressive folk rock. No Other, strength of strings, true one 2.4

The Real Thing by Faith No More
Jan 07 2023

Speaking generously, this album demonstrates some range across styles and offers a ‘different’ sound.. that said, I would personally prefer quality in one genre over mediocrity in several. Woodpecker from Mars and the War Pigs cover tell me they might have some chops in rock/metal but the half attempts at hip hop, funk, jazz etc are all distracting at best. Many bad songs throughout make me think the well-known Epic may have been either a fluke or maybe just a reason enough to throw together a record to capitalize. 1.8

Steve McQueen by Prefab Sprout
Jan 08 2023

A lot of decent, easy-listening 80s pop song. No real stand outs but I enjoyed Bonny, Appetite, Desire As. Overall, their sound grew on me but after ending up on an the extended version on Spotify I really prefer their acoustic versions at the end to the original tracks. 3.0

Greetings From L.A. by Tim Buckley
Jan 09 2023

Excellent Rock/Blues album, reminiscent of the doors LA woman. Killer vocals with huge range. Funky, jamming instrumentals supporting lyrical styles from from detailed stories to wild howls to playful skat. Tight guitar work on the likes of Hong Kong bar. Not a bad song. All new to me. 4.5

Green Onions by Booker T. & The MG's
Jan 10 2023

Funky R/b instrumental album with some legendary sounds, riffs that are familiar from later stuff like higher ground, gold digger, baby. Hard to tell what’s original vs cover vs borrowed but nice sound throughout either way.

Countdown To Ecstasy by Steely Dan
Jan 11 2023

Doesn’t really hold up to can’t buy a thrill which is stacked with bangers. Blends together at times and doesn’t offer too much to sink your teeth into. Some interesting lyrics here and there and consistent with the steely sound but just a bit meh for them. My old school, Boston rag 2.7

Jan 12 2023

A moving curtain-closer from a country/rock legend. Johnny was slower in pace here than earlier efforts but was as deliberate and powerful with both his lyrics and delivery as ever. Touching on his faith, legacy and hopes for the future, he made a clear statement on what he wants to be remembered by and forgiven for. He included a few interesting although potentially filler covers/tributes but also staked a final claim for the hearts of one last generation with the epic Hurt . The man comes around, Hurt, love to Rose, Danny boy 3.6

Live! by Fela Kuti
Jan 13 2023

Funky, fresh, great command of the audience. Great features drummer Sounds like a fun time. 3.5

Zombie by Fela Kuti
Jan 14 2023

Back to back funky & fresh, killer jazz music supporting a tight theme/ strong antiwar message throughout. Zombie, Mr. Follow follow, mistake (just realized that’s 3/4 tracks!) 4.5

Good Old Boys by Randy Newman
Jan 15 2023

Starts off with a provocative reflection on the failings to truly desegregate America and the Rednecks of both the south to blame. He continues with both introspective and socially critical satire that stay close to his home and uses first person narrative to drive a compelling message. Unique sound and true to his style. Redneck, Louisiana, Naked man 3.2

Halcyon Digest by Deerhunter
Jan 16 2023

Cool and atmospheric intro into some heavily inspired music reminiscent of the Strokes and occasionally Arcade fire. Overall enjoyable with nice range of tempo, cool beats over decent guitar/drum work. Not blown away by anything in particular but would listen again. 3.4 Earthquake cool edgy atmospheric start Don’t cry/revival: strokesy Sailing: cool dark and stormy Memory boy: zombies? Desire Lines: arcade fire drum intro Helicopter: more upbeat cool Fountain stairs: Coronado: very strokes

This Year's Model by Elvis Costello & The Attractions
Jan 17 2023

Nothing very inspired lyrically or vocally, some decent music hiding underneath here and there but still nothing to write home about. No great songs imo. 2.4

The Who Sell Out by The Who
Jan 18 2023

Not a masterpiece but very entertaining. Loved the album art, concept and execution and found the juvenile sound of a very young band on the cusp of breakout success both interesting and refreshing. Only one or two hits (miles and miles) but some other fun songs sprinkled in with sometimes hilarious Monty Pythonesque bits. What’s for tea? See for miles, odorono, Heinz 3.7

Not letting this one stop me. Feels like a late nineties soundtrack. I find a lot of the sound to be a little repetitive but I like the composition/business of A Place Called Home also Duo with Thom Yorke 2.7 Good fortune / A Place Called Home / this mess we’re in (Thom Yorke)

Back In Black by AC/DC
Jan 20 2023

Another great AC/DC album with big vocals and instrumentation. Tight production with a crisper sound and well-composed songs (hells bells). Full of hits. 4.4 Hells Bells / Shoot to Thrill / back in black/ shook me all night /

Mama's Gun by Erykah Badu
Jan 21 2023

Funky, some voice effects, nice vocals/range, sometimes coffee shop or atmospheric rhythms. Liked the slow pace but was a long album and did drag a little at the end 3.5 & On, Cleva, Kiss me, Orange Moon

Gris Gris by Dr. John
Jan 22 2023

Interesting. Can picture listening in a dark and smoky lounge in NOLA. Organs, winds, banjo, drums, sounds of the jungle. No stand out tracks. Good backup vocals. 2.6 Jump sturdy

Savane by Ali Farka Touré
Jan 26 2023

Interesting listen with a creole jazz sound with North African influences. Enjoyed the harmonica and bayou sound of the opening Erdi.

Bubble And Scrape by Sebadoh
Jan 27 2023

Not all bad but certainly plenty. Decent start with Soul and Fire but fell off a cliff after that with a few redemption songs sprinkled in. Grunge punk angst without much form with a few exceptions 2.2

At Budokan by Cheap Trick
Jan 28 2023

They came out swinging and put on a solid live performance recorded mostly true to sound. Sure it was a good night at Budokan. 3.4

Jan 29 2023

Subdued, understated and lovely. Thoughtful storytelling with personal lyrics. White dress, told Jesus freak, Dark but just a game

Peak 90s mom music (think Delilah) to others reminiscent more of the Stones sound. Maybe trip hop and punk vibes in others at times. Something I couldn’t quite place that felt very early 2000s that those bands may have picked up here. 3.5 Beautiful Day Stuck in a moment (you’ve got to get yourself together) In a little while

Aug 21 2024

Killer 90s rock album with garage/grunge sound, especially Courtney love vocals, pronounced guitar riffs with balanced but satisfying drums and piercing lyrics throughout. Tight set, exactly what it should be. 4.5

Tuesday Night Music Club by Sheryl Crow
Aug 23 2024

Powerful album with provocative lyrics from personal to political without holding punches along the way. Extremely varied styles from folk/songwriter, pop, jazz, r&b and more. Very apt closing of I will be me. 4.6

Grace by Jeff Buckley
Aug 24 2024

Solid 90s alt rock album with huge vocals and compelling lyrics. Impressive refresh of Hallelujah. 3.7

Peter Gabriel by Peter Gabriel
Sep 08 2025

Stranger album than I was expecting, kind of cool but weird. Nothing surpassed the hit Solsbury Hill in my opinion. 3.2

Here's Little Richard by Little Richard
Sep 09 2025

Absolute party until at least Long Tall Sally which was still fun to dance to but felt a little duplicative from Tutti Frutti (and again on rip it up). Great vocals; drums and sax throughout and some interesting lyrics (oh why?) but a little repetitive. So fun to dance to. 4.1

After The Gold Rush by Neil Young
Sep 10 2025

Songwriting! Many understated but lovely introspectives put to simplistic acoustic unremarkable piano. Anchored by a legendary classic rock staple southern man remembered for its sharp cultural/social critique of the American South with crisp guitar solos and soaring/haunting vocals. Other highlights gritty harmonica on oh lonesome one. 3.6

Wordsmith

Reviews written for 100% of albums. Average review length: 231 characters.

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.