Such a classic modern pop-punk record, this takes me right back to being a moody-too-cool-for-school teenager. Dookie guides you through the inner musings of Billie-Joe around themes such as boredom, anxiety, relationships, and sexuality. Best: Longview, Welcome to Paradise; Basket Case; When I Come Around Worst: FOD

Not my cup of tea. Too slow and jazzy, maybe it's that I don't understand the context of the time the album was written. Almost fell asleep listening to it. Best: idek Worst: The whole album??

Upon getting this album pop up for today's listen - I was really skeptical. But the first song on the album is Apache which at first didn't recognise by name, but recognised the sound from countless covers, samples and features in films. The entire album has a soundtrack like quality to it, which makes sense when you realise that Michael Viner was a record artist manager and executive at MGM Records. Overall a good listen for a Friday afternoon Best: Apache; In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida Worst: No real weakness just a nice flow through the album as a whole Disclaimer - I only listened to the first 8 songs on Spotify as they were part of the original album. The remainder was part of the 2006 CD Release

Bowie takes you on a journey from upbeat and relatively radio friendly electro-rock tunes, right through to quite experimental instrumentals in the latter portion of the album. I quite enjoyed the ambient relaxing sounds of Moss Garden which transported me to another place. Amazingly, most of the tracks on the album were created in one take both instrumentals and lyrics. Best: Beauty and the Beast; Heroes; Moss Garden Worst: V-2 Schneider

Although I had heard a lot about Courtney Love through the years, I didn't realise she had her own band. Heavy grunge reminiscent of the 90s with a strong female empowerment/feminist overtone lyrically, that as a whole was often criticised and mocked for being whiny and overdramatic due to the 'Riot grrrl' movement, would resonate with audiences today. Best: Miss World; Jennifer's Body; Doll Parts; Gutless Worst: N/A

Very blues-ey, at times felt like I was at a southern US country music festival. Overall, a good album by one of the most iconic bands in music history. Best: Sympathy for the Devil, Stray Cat Blues and Salt of the Earth. Worst: No Expectations, Factory Girl

One of the OG glam punk rock groups formed in the US, which paved the way for the likes of the Sex Pistols, Guns & Roses, Kiss, The Dammed and The Smiths. In listening to this album, you can hear where each of these bands have drawn their influence from. I found this an easy listen, and fell straight into the album with a now fairly familiar sound. High tempo, shredding guitar riffs, and punching rock vocals. Best: Personality Crisis, Frankenstein, Jet Boy Worst: Looking for a Kiss, Bad Girl, Subway Train

Funky disco beats, started high tempo with what I think is their standout, then mellowed into a late night jazz club vibe. Lots of sax and instrumental beats that for me dragged out a little too long in some cases. Not my favourite kind of music. Best: Shining Star, That's the Way of the World Worst: Reasons, All About Love (First Impressions)

An ok listen, nothing really too polarising on the album. Best: Machine Gun Etiquette, I Just Can't be Happy Today, Liar Worst: Melody Lee, Looking at You

Scottish pop/electro band who's only Top 40 hit, "Rip It Up" was the first hit to use the Roland TB-303 synthesizer. Lots of electro synth beats, with some sax and horns thrown in. At times could hear some Franz Ferdinand. Best: Rip It Up Worst: Hokoyo

Heard a bit about Sonic Youth growing up but never got the chance to listen to any of their stuff. This album fits in with the timeline of the grunge movement of the early 90's. Lots of long guitar shredding solos midway though songs, presumably to help the headbanging movement. Lots of socio-political references to the era of the album. Best: Sugar Kane, Youth Against Fascism, Swimsuit Issue Worst: Chapel Hill, JC, Purr

Not my cup of tea. Too slow and jazzy, maybe it's that I don't understand the context of the time the album was written. Almost fell asleep listening to it. Best: idek Worst: The whole album??

A good listen to old school rap. A lot of the themes in the songs resonate to today's climate in the USA. Best: The N***a Ya Love to Hate, AmeriKKKa's Most Wanted, It's a Man's World Worst: Who's The Mack?, Get Off My D**k and Tell Yo B***h to Come Here

A very slow, lo-fi rock album leaning to electronic. Kind of nice to have in the background whilst doing work. Will need a few listens to get into, I think it will be one that grows on me. Best: Nude, Jigsaw Falling into Place Worst: All I Need, Faust Arp

Most of the album is very afro-beat hip-hop type. Not too much of a fan of this type of music. The notable exception would be the commercial radio friendly Paper Planes, and I would argue that Come Around also fits this, likely in large part due to their producers (Diplo & Timbaland respectively) Best: Paper Planes, Come Around Worst: BirdFlu, Jimmy 2.5 Stars

Did not enjoy, not into Reggae at all. I get that Bob Marley was very good at what he did, it's just not for me. Best: Natty Dread, No Woman No Cry Worst: So Jah S'eh, Rebel Music (3 O'Clock Roadblock)

An ok listen, not really outstanding for me. Best: How Could I Just Kill a Man, Hole In the Head Worst: Psycobetabuckdown, Latin Lingo 2.5 Stars

A good album, after having only ever heard of Janis, but not what her music sounded like, it was almost a surprise in listening to it. A lot Blues-ier than I thought. Can see how her music will have influenced many that came after her. Best: Cry Baby, Mercedes Benz Worst: My Baby, Trust me

Music styling is pop-jazz-saxo beats. But good grief! Didn't really think too much about the lyrics until it got to "Jericho's" first verse. That sounds like some messed up crap, and made me go back and look at the other lyrics a bit closer. Hope there is a reasonable explanation for those lyrics on Jericho. Should re-think having this album in the best 1001 of all time in my opinion. 0 stars if I could

An ok listen, haven't heard about this group before, but it was a decent rock'n'roll album. Best: Anything that's Rock'n'Roll, Breakdown Worst: Fooled Again (I Don't Like It), Strangered in the night 2.5 Stars

A slow jam type of album, can see many of those songs as the background music of a moody teen drama or movie. Not too bad, but not my style of music. Best: Ponderosa Worst: Suffocated Love 2.5 Stars

Pavement are a real alt rock band, with their sound not out of place in today's alternative scene. A good album that spoke about the time. A good listen and would add to my streaming library. Best: Cut your hair, Range Life Worst: Filmore Drive

Dreamy, folk-jazz album, many songs could work well as a part of a dinner party playlist to have some ambient background music. Best: Solid Air Worst: I'd Rather be the Devil (Devil got my Woman)

A good prog rock album that I enjoyed. Didn't think I'd enjoy too much from this era but here we are. The woodwind instruments were a nice surprise throughout and fit in quite well. It's a nice listen and I think it would sound awesome on vinyl. Best: School, Asylum Worst: Rudy

An ok listen, not too much a fan of the genre, but can see a bit of Alicia Keyes in the album. Some of the interludes made the album flow nicely, and kind of put me into a dreamlike state, and raised some still valid socio-political points (2021) However I struggled to take Solange seriously as she will always be Camille from "Bring it On: All or Nothing" to me. Best: Cranes in the Sky Worst: Mad (Feat. Lil Wayne)

A folksy rock (heavy on the folk) album that I did not expect to recognise any songs from, but 'Our House' was the one. Not too out of place for an alternative radio station by today's standards. Best: Our House, Woodstock Worst: Almost Cut My Hair, Country Hair 2.5 stars

Wow, so good haven't listened to the entire album previously, but the title track is only the beginning for this album. After having a quick scan of the Wikipedia page there was more to Marvin's story than I was aware of. His personal struggles with his stunted sexuality due to his father's physical abuse when he was a child. Not only are his lyrics suggestive, but as David Ritz wrote: "If the most profound soul songs are prayers in secular dress, Marvin's prayer is to reconcile the ecstasy of his early religious epiphany with a sexual epiphany ... In those songs of loss and lament—the sense of separation is heartbreaking. On one level, the separation is between man and woman. On a deeper level, the separation is between man and God." Prior to this I would not have guessed that deeper level that the album goes to. Best: Let's Get It On Worst: You Sure Love to Ball

A perfectly fine album, very garage rock for the time. Can see some modern albums that fit within this framework in some stylistic and sound choices. Best: Kicks Worst: Melody for an Unknown Girl 2.5 Stars

An all time classic anthemic song in We are Family. I don't think I've been to a wedding without this song playing! The whole album is very disco pop and familiar sounding. Best: We are Family, Thinking of you. Worst: Somebody Loves Me 3.5 Stars

One of the all time classic albums, even though I would not actively go out and listen to it, but can appreciate the significance it's had on the music landscape. Best: Born in the USA, Dancing in the Dark Worst: Bobby Jean

Really lovely listen to this album, the ultra familiar tones of Elvis was strangely very comforting. Although I don't think I've heard any of the Elvis originals in the album, it feels like a more mature outing than his earlier songs. The different styles and pace of music take some getting used to, and can see that there might have been mixed reviews when this initially was released. The production on Fever is just gorgeous! Best: Fever; Dirty, Dirty Feeling Worst: I will be home again

This album sounds typically like something out of the early 70s by way of soft/psych rock. A perfectly ok listen. The album cover is next level crazy though. Best: Reelin' in the Years Worst: Brooklyn (Owes the Charmer Under Me) 2.5 stars

Bernard Sumner's voice left a lot to be desired. Not too sure if it was the production that hampered it, but it felt very whiny to me. I did enjoy the instrumentals on all of the tracks particularly Elegia. They have a very distinctive 80s sound, with their use of synths throughout. Best: Elegia Worst: Face Up 2.5 Stars

What an album, one of the original acts from what was the birth of the mainstream house scene that we know today. It gives me "Ministry of Sound" vibes well before it was propelled into existence. Best: Rendez-Vu, Stop 4 Love, Worst: N/A Couldn't fault it, a fantastic debut for Basement Jaxx!

I did enjoy listening to this album, having never fully listened to any Beatles albums from beginning to end. Only knowing a few of their major singles, this definitely felt more psychedelic/experimental than perhaps their earlier work. Especially with the sitar and other instruments. It seemed obvious that they were on some good drugs around the time of recording this album. Controversial opinion - didn't care too much for Yellow Submarine. Best: Taxman; Elenor Rigby Worst: Here, There and Everywhere

An ok album, had a psychedelic Beatles vibe, with a more pop leaning. Not sure if I got the full experience as Spotify only had the Deluxe Edition. Best: Party Line, Dandy Worst: Holiday in Waikiki 2.5 stars

Funky Brasilian/Latin American beats. Not really my jam, but in the right setting this could be a cracker album. Definitely think the back half of the album is better than the front. Had to re-listen to Rod Stewart's 'Da Ya think I'm sexy' to hear the similarities in 'Taj Mahal' that would constitute a settlement. Best: Meus Filhos, Meu Tesouro; África Brasil Worst: O Plebeu

Didn't realise that this album was from the late 70's, I associated their main singles firmly from the 80's! An all round decent pop/rock album with instantly recognisable classics in "One way or Another" which has been endlessly covered, and "Heart of Glass" which was personally a staple in PlayStation 2's SingStar game. The album takes you on a journey and I think there are no real stinkers on the album which makes for a quintessential pop/rock album. Best: One way or Another; Heart of Glass Worst: no real outliers here!

The heartbreak in this album is evident. Much lamenting and sorrow throughout. Lots of harmonica riffs really touch to the sadness of a broken heart. Best: Oh my Sweet Carolina; Shakedown On 9th Street Worst: Sweet Lil' Gal

A relatively easy listen, definitely one to put on if you were in the mood for some salsa like tunes. Not something I would go out of my way to listen to, but hosting a latin night or something like that would be good to put on in the background. Best: Chan Chan Worst: Buena Vista Social Club 2.5 Stars

A really funky jazz/hip-hop mix from the Beastie Boys with their trademark rap sound over the top. Lots of instrumental tracks throughout, where I perhaps wasn't expecting it. Best: Sure Shot; Root Down Worst: Sabrosa

An good listen overall, Violent Femmes have been on my list to listen to for a while, but before this I thought they had a bit more of a harder rock edge to them. Random aside, not sure if there's a connection but the part in Gone Daddy Gone (the na na na na bit) sounds like the "Hippogriff" song featured in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire movie. Best: Blister in the Sun; To the Kill Worst: Please Do Not Go; Good Feeling

Upon getting this album pop up for today's listen - I was really skeptical. But the first song on the album is Apache which at first didn't recognise by name, but recognised the sound from countless covers, samples and features in films. The entire album has a soundtrack like quality to it, which makes sense when you realise that Michael Viner was a record artist manager and executive at MGM Records. Overall a good listen for a Friday afternoon Best: Apache; In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida Worst: No real weakness just a nice flow through the album as a whole Disclaimer - I only listened to the first 8 songs on Spotify as they were part of the original album. The remainder was part of the 2006 CD Release

A very dreamy instrumental album, where based on the title could easily see people listening to this on a lazy arvo smoking up a storm. Not really a fan of the album, but it makes ok background music for studying/working Best: Stars Worst: Groove St

The Low End Theory is regarded as one of the most influential albums in hip hop history. Even though its been called the "Sgt. Pepper's of hip-hop" and helped meld the lines between jazz and hip-hop in the early 90s, this is not really an album for me. Best: Scenario Worst: Butter

How can you go past some absolute classic Sinatra? Its a pleasant listen and kind of reminds me of a simpler time. Classic big band sound, dulcet tone of Frank how can you go wrong? Best: I've Got You Under My Skin; Anything Goes Worst: We'll be Together Again; Swingin' Down the Lane

A good alt/rock record with a sound that would not be out of place on some radio stations today. The first disk of the double album was stronger than the second. I think they should have left it at the end of the first one. Best: Outtasite (Outta Mind) Worst: Someone Else's Song 2.5 stars

An interesting concept album, and can definitely see how they adapted this into a musical. A lovely soft rock/sci-fi vibe throughout the whole album, somehow reminds me of Neon Genesis Evangelion (maybe that's just the album cover) Best: Fight Test, Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots Pt. 1 Worst: Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots Pt. 2 2.5 stars

The Bends is an album I have heard of but never had the chance to listen to. After "Creep" it catapulted them into the stratosphere. Their sound has influenced so many Brit Pop/Rock bands that have come after them, and in listening to this it becomes evident where the influences are. Best: The Bends; High and Dry Worst: Bullet Proof... I wish I was

Autobahn was an interesting listen, at first I was a little skeptical when I saw the length of the title track was over 22 minutes! Upon listening I would never have thought that the album was released in 1974, the sound is well ahead of it's time. It was quite a relaxing listen and really took you through a sonic journey. Best: Autobahn Worst: N/A

Lady in Satin was a dip into the soulful and quite mournful sounds of Billie Holiday. She has such a gorgeous voice, however this album just didn't grab me. It was a little too heavy on the "You have to have felt loss to love" vibe for me. Best: But Beautiful Worst: You Don't Know What Love Is

Frank Sinatra's crooning tones can't be surpassed. In the Wee Small Hours takes you through a journey of the end of a relationship, which mirrored Sinatra's personal life at the time with his separation from his second wife Ava Gardner. It's hard not to hear the emotion in his voice throughout, however this really has brought my mood way down for the day. Would have been 1 star if not for his dulcet tone and emotion throughout the album. Best: Dancing on the Ceiling Worst: Deep in a Dream

If Kurt Cobain wanted a more un-polished and un-refined record than Nevermind, I think they successfully accomplished this without a doubt. In Utero is possibly the quintessential grunge/garage rock albums of the early 90s. At times the raw sound could be a little grating, but looking past those couple of tracks, it's one to have a good head-banging sesh to. Best: Heart-Shaped Box; Pennyroyal Tea Worst: Scentless Apprentice; Radio Friendly Unit Shifter

I Against I is not what I was expecting upon looking at the album cover. I was expecting some reggae/hip-hop - guess it shows that you don't judge a book by it's cover! This was a cool listen to some mid 80s punk/ska of which I have never heard of the band. Best: Hired Gun Worst: Sacred Love 3.5 Stars

The first track grabbed me as being a perfect soundtrack to a horror movie set in the deep south of the USA. The psychedelic rock of Dr. John would also not be out of place on a mind bending trip. Although not sure if I'd recommend going down that route. The ending of "I Walk on Guilded Splinters" capped off an odd album. Best: Gris-Gris Gumbo Ya Ya; I Walk on Guilded Splinters Worst: Danse Fambeaux; Croker Courtbullion 2.5 Stars

Bowie takes you on a journey from upbeat and relatively radio friendly electro-rock tunes, right through to quite experimental instrumentals in the latter portion of the album. I quite enjoyed the ambient relaxing sounds of Moss Garden which transported me to another place. Amazingly, most of the tracks on the album were created in one take both instrumentals and lyrics. Best: Beauty and the Beast; Heroes; Moss Garden Worst: V-2 Schneider

Justice's Cross is a punchy and in your face Dance/EDM/House record that is one to get you really going either on the dance floor or one to pump you up. I love that singles are still played out on the youth radio station in my country. Their clever use of samples and hundreds of microsamples throughout are a showing that music can truly be anything you make of it. Best: Genesis; D.A.N.C.E.; One Minute to Midnight Worst: Hard to pick a bad song in the entire album. Each song captured my attention from the get-go and didn't let me go.

Bluesy folk rock is not really my jam. However I can appreciate the deep Baritone of Fred Neil's voice. Best: Everyobdy's Talkin' Worst: Cynicrustpetefredjohn Raga

Cult of Personality on Guitar Hero was my first and only foray into Living Colour. For a US based band there is a noticable British rock/punk sound in the beginning of the album. When you find out the bassist was British born, this connects the dots. It then moves to more of a funk vibe, and finishes off the album with turn to some metal. Best: Cult of Personality Worst: Open Letter (To a Landlord)

This album is not my jam. I can appreciate the cool Afro Beats, but it's not something that I'd willingly listen to. The arrangements were very long, which dragged out the album. Best: Wonder Wonder Worst: Stubbor Problems

Interesting arrangements to the entire album and an interesting look into post-punk from the late 70s. At times it was a little grating, but overall an ok album. Best: Dub Housing Worst: Blow Daddy-O 2.5 Stars

Overall, an ok album. Not minding some of the harpsichord trilling and flute arrangements. A very folksy album epitomised by the 19 min jam session Revelation, with its spoken word lyrics, guitar, harmonica, and drum solos it's what one would expect. When it got to the sax solo, started to hurt my ears. :/ Best: 7 and 7 Is; She Comes in Colours Worst: "¡Que Vida!"

The album is lo-fi electronica mixed with Latin american beats. It would be good to have on in the background at a low-key dinner or a chill-sesh. Best: Abraço; Samba Do Gringo Paulista Worst: Antropófagos 2.5 Stars

Springsteen's Nebraska is in the vein of telling the story of the 'True America' not glossing over anything and telling it as he sees. Very solemn and seemingly deliberate in taking you on a journey, through mid-western USA. Springsteen doesn't hit the mark for me, perhaps, because its not really something I can relate to. Best: Nebraska; Open All Night Worst: Highway Patrolman

Absolute Classic MJ. I have never previously listened to this album but there were several songs that are so ubiquitous that you can't not have heard them. Funky disco vibes throughout and mellowing towards the tail end of the album. Best: Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough; Rock With You Worst: It's The Falling In Love

Right off the bat, listening to this reminds me of the Beetles, and to almost no surprise it was recorded at the Abbey Road Studios. The Zombies is a foray into the psychedelic rock of the mid to late 60s and has an airy lightness to it with the backing harmonies. Although there are darker toned themes such as prison, breakups, wallowing in ones sorrows, and yearning for a great love, it appears it's told through the haze of LSD (have you seen the album cover?). Best: Care of Cell 44; Butcher's Tale Worst: This will be our year

The album got off to a cracking start. How could you go past the classic Ace Of Spades? As it progressed it kept those hard nosed guitars and drums but the content of the lyrics progressively got more and more rapey. Culminating in both Jailbait and The Chase is Better Than The Catch. I wanted to enjoy the entire album but I really couldn't, it makes sense as to why the only released single from the album was the Ace of Spades. This album would've had a much higher rating from me only if the lyrical content was not so rapey. Best: Ace of Spades Worst: Jailbait; The Chase is Better than the Catch

Although I had heard a lot about Courtney Love through the years, I didn't realise she had her own band. Heavy grunge reminiscent of the 90s with a strong female empowerment/feminist overtone lyrically, that as a whole was often criticised and mocked for being whiny and overdramatic due to the 'Riot grrrl' movement, would resonate with audiences today. Best: Miss World; Jennifer's Body; Doll Parts; Gutless Worst: N/A

Overall a good album, its very easy listening and fits in nicely with the pop/folk rock of the late 60s. Its a real shame that it was released on the same day as the Beetles "White" album. With themes such as the nostalgia of childhood and small village life contrasting to the quickly changing youth of the late 60s it cements itself as one to listen to on a lazy afternoon and watch the world go by. Best: Village Green Preservation Society; People Take Pictures of Each other Worst: Monica

It was such a weird mish-mash of electronica/rock and to be honest not really a fan. It felt like it jumped around from place to place and no real cohesion throughout. I can kind of see what they were trying to go for but it just didn't really work. Best: It's Not the End of the World? Worst: Run Christian Run!

Such a classic modern pop-punk record, this takes me right back to being a moody-too-cool-for-school teenager. Dookie guides you through the inner musings of Billie-Joe around themes such as boredom, anxiety, relationships, and sexuality. Best: Longview, Welcome to Paradise; Basket Case; When I Come Around Worst: FOD

The arrangements throughout are a mish mash in a good way of jazz, classical, Spanish and African themes. It feels very improvised, something you may hear at a jazz club, quite nice as some background music. No best or worst as the entire album feels like a collective that should be treated as a whole.

Music for the Masses is obviously ironically named. Depeche Mode would not have been classified as mainstream in any sense of the word. It is moody and dark, but also decidedly 80s in feel. Overall a great listen and one I'd venture back into. Best: Never Let Me Down Again; Little 15 Worst: Pimpf

Spotify only had the 2011 re-issue album in their catalogue, I believe the omission of some of the added songs may have made the album flow a little better. Might have given it a slightly higher rating if it was the original track-list. Overall I thought it was a good intro to QOTSA being their debut album. Best: Regular John Worst: These Aren't the Droids You're Looking For

Once I saw the track-list of this album I knew I was in for a surprise. Seeing tracks like 'I Feel the Earth Move' and '(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman' which are absolutely iconic songs, of which I had no idea who originally sung them. Its a very relaxed pop/folksy album with acoustic guitars and piano playing that has an old world feel to it. Best: I Feel the Earth Move; (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman Worst: Way Over Yonder

Honestly surprised me that there was a female voice on the album - genuinely thought it was a male led band. Then I do some extra digging and find out the Stevie Nicks is that voice?! Definitely a TIL. Overall a good alt album which I can see some songs making it onto a road trip playlist. But for the hype that everyone talks about Fleetwood Mac, IMHO, totally overrated. Best: Angel Worst: Honey Hi

This album is so full of energy, it makes you want to get up and jump around head-banging. It's a politically charged album throughout, being anti-war and touching on topics of genocide, religion and brainwashing. All of these themes make sense when you realise that the band-members are Armenian, whose people have been subject to tragedies. Best: Sugar; Peephole Worst: Spiders

The PetShop Boys, Actually is a quintessential 80s album. With songs including "What Have I Done to Deserve This?" and "Rent" have the iconic sound of pop synths and dramatic electro-drum beats. Best: What Have I Done to Deserve This?; Shopping Worst: It Couldn't Happen Here

This is a great album to chill out to, or to have on in the background whilst studying or working or doing something you need to focus on. Best: Protection Worst: Spying Glass 2.5 Stars

More Songs About Buildings And Food has the familiar production of producer Brian Eno. The story of how the album name came about sounds like a typical band decision. Quote from Tina Weymouth the bassist: "When we were making this album I remembered this stupid discussion we had about titles for the last album. At that time I said, 'What are we gonna call an album that's just about buildings and food?' And Chris said, 'You call it more songs about buildings and food.'" It seems that a number of artists have been influenced by the sounds of this album, in my experience, MGMT immediately comes to mind through their similar sounding Avant-pop/new-wave electro sounds. Whether that was a direct influence of the producer or Talking Heads themselves remains to be seen. Best: With Our Love Worst: The Big Country Note: Spotify had the 2005 Remastered album with bonus tracks, I only listened to the original tracks off the album.

It's a pretty dark album we get from Lou Reed here. With what is essentially a concept album, with the telling of a couple's struggle with drug addiction and abuse. Best: Caroline Says I Worst: The Bed

Station to Station is a space-age-cocaine-fueled insight into the mind of Bowie at the time with the Thin White Duke persona that he adopted. There are some very odd references that Bowie attributes to the album including references to the stations of the Cross and the Kabbalah. As Bowie was so disconnected with the album as a whole he attributes it "as a piece of work by an entirely different person". Best: Station to Station Worst: Wild is the Wind

From the satirical look at the cult of celebrity to orgasms and rehabilitation clinics - and that's just in the first four songs. Courtney Love really knows how to get the world bopping without paying too much attention to the lyrics. It is a testament to the alt-rock-pop sounds throughout this album. Overall a listen that takes you back to the sounds of high school teen movies from the very late 90s and very early 00s. Best: Malibu; Petals Worst: Dying

Merriweather Post Pavilion is a good psych-electronica album that being sample heavy, it allows a creative flow of interesting soundscapes. Best: My Girls Worst: Lion in a Coma

This album is perfect to have on in the background whilst studying or working. Great lo-fi beats and sounds like something a 24/7 YouTube channel would be playing. Not sure if I can pick a best and worst, the whole album is pretty cohesive.

Quite a dreamy alternative album. There was a gamut of instruments throughout the production which kept things fresh and interesting. Best: Pissing in the Wind Worst: Be Wilder

70s soul vibes throughout. Not something I'd go out of my way to listen to normally. Its very slow and to me it drags on and I couldn't wait for it to be over.... all 71 minutes of it. Best: Cleva Worst: ...&On 1.5 Stars

Willie Nelson's Stardust is a collection of more 'pop' style music than I was expecting from what I've heard of Nelson's country pedigree. The album was a lookback at his childhood, Nelson wanted to bring these songs to a new audience, along with bringing an older one back into the fold of listening to music again. Overall an enjoyable compilation album of covers which, similarly to its namesake, has a starry quality throughout. Best: Stardust; Unchained Melody Worst: On the Sunny Side of the Street

Melody AM is a look into the world of chilled out house music. Lovely to listen to whilst relaxing on an afternoon, a perfect addition to a background music playlist also. Best: So Easy Worst: Poor Leno 3.5 Stars

It's a fast paced alt-rock bordering on metal in the first half of the album. then in the second half of the album it takes a turn to the dark side. Of which is a delve into love and loss. Firstly of Perry's girlfriend who overdosed at 19 along with his mother who committed suicide when he was 3. Overall it's an album that feels a little disjointed. Going from one side of the record to the other you'd just about think you put on an entirely different LP. Best: Stop Worst: Been Caught Stealing

Closer is melancholic and austere. Given that it was released posthumously from Ian Curtis' suicide it feels more poignant. Coupled with the cover art image of the Appiani Family tomb from Genoa, you have a haunting album, of which in hindsight makes it seem that Ian's suicide was inevitable. A seminal album in post-punk/alternative with the introduction of the synths so prevalent of the 80s. Best: Isolation Worst: Passover

Whew, American Idiot is an absolute classic in my eyes. The entire album is filled with commentary on the political and disenfranchised state of the USA in the early/mid 00s, and although the album is almost 20 years old, sadly it still speaks to the state of USA. This conceptual album is multi Grammy award winning, has been adapted for Broadway and has a documentary that was filmed about the process of making the album. This takes me back to early high school blasting this in my headphones on my discman, and to what we now know as a much simpler time considering what the Trump Administration has brought to the world. Best: American Idiot; Boulevard of Broken Dreams; Wake Me Up When September Ends Worst: Are We the Waiting Note: Spotify has joined some songs as one, which I can see why they've done it for the flow, but I have always listened to them as separate songs. (Holiday/Boulevard of Broken Dreams; Are we The Waiting/St. Jimmy, and a couple of others)

The Byrds seemed like they may have put up a good fight against the tsunami that was The Beatles, however at the time there was no real way to stop them. Mr. Tambourine Man is a solid pop-folk album that would have been enjoyed by audiences all over. Best: Mr. Tambourine Man Worst: The Bells of Rhymney Note: Spotify has the 1996 reissue with additional tracks. I only listened to the original 12 tracks on the album.

Schoooooooollll'sss Ouuuutttt!!! Classic song that's been used as an anthem for school leavers since it's release. The rest of the album doesn't quite hit the mark in terms of the peak that School's Out was able to achieve. Interesting to note that on their greatest hits album, the only featured song from this album is School's Out. The remainder of the album is a little lacklustre with some potentially questionable lyrics - it's ambiguous if the lyrics relate to consensual acts or otherwise. A couple of other songs do have the themes of school/school leaving but the others do not. The instrumental's weren't too bad either. Best: School's Out; Public Animal #9 Worst: Blue Turk

Iron Butterfly's In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida's standout song is quite obviously the title track. The remainder of the songs are perfectly fine, however are clearly only filler. I feel younger audiences, would know the title track from The Simpsons classic church scene where Bart Sells his Soul to the Devil. The song was supposed to be "In the Garden Of Eden" but the organist was so drunk and slurring his words it was transcribed as In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida. Best: In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida Worst: Are You Happy

AccaDacca! If you're looking for the quintessential Australian Rock album, this has got to be one of the top ones for sure. It has classic tracks, hard-nosed guitar riffs and solos that will get your head bopping and ears bleeding! Best: Hell's Bells; Back in Black Worst: Shake A Leg

A totally smooth album filled with what Santana are known for, cool latin/jazz fusion rock. Best: Black Magic Woman/Gypsy Queen Worst: Samba Pa Ti

A very dark and heavily moody album, of which whose title reflects the state of mind of Trent Reznor's spiral into drug abuse and depression. If you're not paying attention to the lyrics then you may mistake this for a regular distortion filled album but it is so much more than that. Best: Heresy Worst: A Warm Place

A Hard Day's Night is what can only be described as Absolute Classic Beatles. Interesting to find out that the first half of the album was a part of the soundtrack from a film of the same name. It was their first album to feature entirely original compositions. It was such a delight to listen to, it felt so comfortable and familiar to listen to, even though this is the first time I have listened to this album in full. Best: A Hard Day's Night; Can't Buy Me Love Worst: Can't pick.

The album is a perfectly ok listen. That kind of country rock doesn't really appeal to me, but it was nice to hear that it wasn't a typical 'country' album. Best: Green River Worst: Broken Spoke Shuffle

Parklife feels like a new record, yet so familiar. Having never heard the album, but familiar with Blur's 'Song 2' it feels worlds apart from that song, yet all cut from the same cloth. Best: Girls and Boys Worst: Trouble in the Message Centre

Super boppy and a very bluesy album overall. This style of music would have been a staple at numerous parties and events from the late 50s onwards. Best: Blueberry Hill Worst: The Fat Man's Hop Spotify did not have the entire album, had to resort to finding the songs on YouTube to complete my listen.

I've heard of the Dire Straits, however this album isn't what I was expecting. I was expecting a little heavier rock than the slight blues twinge to the record. That's not to say that it was bad, just unexpected. Best: Down to the Waterline Worst: Wild West End

Lots of jazz, naturally lending itself to big band energy. Overall an ok album, however nothing that would really grab me to go back and listen to it. Best: Southern California Purples Worst: Liberation

Wow for a band to have their 15th (!) album in the top 1001 albums either some of their other stuff juuuust missed out or it wasn't that good to begin with. The Fall's 'The Infotainment Scan' is reminiscent of early to mid 90s alt rock with house/dance undertones throughout. It has a very abrupt, poetry style to the lyrical content of the album. Overall an ok listen. Best: Ladybird (Green Grass) Worst: Light/Fireworks 2.5 Stars NOTE: Spotify had the double disc version of the album. I only listened to the first disc as it would have been released on CD at the time.

An interesting listen, definitely something that I would not normally listen to unless I was perhaps going to a concert specifically for this. I can appreciate that Keith Jarrett is a very good pianist, but I will probably never listen to this again. No Best/Worst as I think it should be treated as a whole performance.

After looking at the album cover and the year it was released I wasn't expecting too much from this album. however when I popped it on, immediately I recognised the sound, although can't pinpoint from exactly where I recognise it from perhaps from movies or TV shows. Overall a good instrumental album with many familiar melodies. Best: Green Onions Worst: One Who Really Loves You

I've heard of Leonard Cohen, but never listened to any of his music. From the first note I wasn't sure what to expect, but when that deep, booming yet soulful voice came at me I was taken aback. Overall it was a very dark and somber album that was ok but wouldn't go out of my way to listen to. Best: You Want It Darker Worst: Steer Your Way

There was only one song that I have heard previously of in the entire album of course it was 'Wouldn't it Be Nice'. Other than that, the album was a delve into the sound of the 60s pioneering new sounds and instruments used for rock at the time including bicycle bells, French horn, flutes, Electro-Theremin, string sections, and beverage cans. Overall an ok album but not as good as the hype that I have heard surround this record. Best: Wouldn't It Be Nice Worst: Sloop John B 2.5 Stars

Whilst I have kind of heard of Frankie Goes to Hollywood I didn't realise that the absolute classic "Relax" was by these guys! Welcome to the Pleasuredome is an amalgamation of what I think the 80s would've sounded like. Full of deep synths and electro dance pop goodness. Best: Relax; War Worst: Tag

There's no doubt that The Who Sell Out by The Who is a concept album. It's dripping with the irony of 'Selling Out' with all of their "Sponsored" commercials and "Public Service Announcements" interspersed between songs. Overall it was an ok album but quite possibly very niche in terms of the whole concept. Best: Tattoo Worst: I Can See For Miles

Bizarre Ride II has that early form Hip-Hop flavour in the way of their flow and overall beats and sound with a familiar cadence and flow of the late 80s early 90s. Their lyrical content is typically not as heavy as those of other artists of the time - particularly NWA and the like. Overall an easy listening album, where lots of the tracks would work well in things like skate videos or skate video games Best: Oh Shit; Ya Mama Worst: Return Of the B-Boy Note: Spotify didn't have the track Officer - had to jump over to YouTube to listen.

Quite a good indie/alt debut album from REM. I can understand why at the time it would have been very out there with such a new sound and lyric style. In 1983 I don't really think anyone had a sound like REM and that is part of the reason they're a mainstay in the music industry. Best: Radio Free Europe Worst: We Walk Note: Spotify had the Deluxe reissue version of the album. Only listened to the songs on the original album.

A look into the lives of the LA rappers moving into the 90s. This lengthy album has many interludes and asides where it felt a little drawn out. Definitely some tracks could've been cut, or edited a little better. Best: O.G. Original Gangster Worst: Fly By

It was a jazz album that was pleasant enough to listen to, however not something I'd actively go out of my way to listen to again. An album that would be good as part of some background music at a speakeasy type bar. No best/worst as they all flow into one another.

I can understand why people liked Bob Dylan, however it is not my jam at all, way too folksy and kind of a whiny voice overall - kind of difficult to listen to over 1.5 hours. Best: Mr. Tambourine Man Worst: Desolation Row

A very folksy, psych rock, a very familiar sound, not sure if I've heard some of their tunes previously or if their sound has been replicated throughout time. Best: Bluebird Worst: Broken Arrow 2.5 Stars

A very heavy and dark outfit from Metallica. It's probably their best and most well known album, having been number 1 in about 10 countries and a mainstay in the charts. It is the quintessential metal/heavy rock album. Its a heavier sound than the likes of the metal albums of the 80s, but does not disappoint. Best: Enter Sandman Worst: Of Wolf and Man

Underwater Moonlight is a psych-rock with tones of influence from The Beatles, with note of the sitar throughout. Whilst they haven't had much commercial success, they have been credited as early influencers of the likes of REM. Best: I Wanna Destroy You Worst: Old Pervert NOTE: Spotify had ALL of the reissue tracks on the one album. I only listened to the original 10 songs off the album.

Very baroque in style and dreamy, Rufus has a voice similar to Matt Belamy from Muse - when he's singing on some of their softer tracks. I can see why some people would really like this its very adult contemporary in style, however it's too dreamy and flowery for me. Best: Angus Dei; Crumb by Crumb Worst: Old Whore's Diet

A very fun and flirty mambo album that would get a lot of people up and dancing. I can appreciate the album for what it is but it's not something I'd pop on for going out over the weekend. Best: Mambo Gozon Worst: Varsity Drag 2.5 Stars

A dreamy album full of vast orchestral instrumentals that take you to a place off into the ether. Just as the album name suggests - we are left to feel as though we are indeed floating in space (and time). The addition of Elvis' 'Can't Help Falling in Love' on the title track, sets you up for a kind of mystique the album is going to bring. Best: Ladies and Gentlemen We Are Floating in Space (I Can't Help Falling in Love) Worst: No God Only Religion

Back At The Chicken Shack is probably only going to be on a background music playlist. Tracks were quite lengthy. Best: Back At The Chicken Shack Worst: Messy Bessie

This is why they tell you not to judge a book by it's cover. Looking at the album cover I was expecting a country album, but surprisingly what I got was a pop/Motown record including a cover of 'You Don't Own Me'. The album has a similar soul to the likes of Adele, but sounds like Hairspray. Best: You Don't Own Me Worst: Wishin' and Hopin' Note: Spotify had the 1997 reissue with 20 tracks. I only listened to the original 12 tracks from the album.

It's a politically and socially charged album that is fast paced with a dense and chaotic production style that relied on found sounds and avant-garde noise as much as it did on old-school funk. Listening to it today, it still sounds fresh and relevant. Best: Bring the Noise Worst: Mind Terrorist 3.5 Stars

A concept album that if released today would pop up on some indie station. Their psychedelic sound is pretty chill and easy to listen to. Didn't really enjoy the speaking parts throughout the album - but I guess that's what you get from a concept album. Best: Long Agos And Worlds Apart Worst: Happiness Stan

A really good listen to a lot of familiar songs, but never as a whole album. It's evident that The Beatles were well and truly over their teen heart throb status and were more than willing to branch out on something really new and different from their sound and concept for the album to their looks and really keeping with the times of the 'hippy' and drug liberated era. Best: Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band; With a Little Help from My Friends; Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds Worst: When I'm Sixty-Four

The Cure's Pornography is a look into the substance-abused mind, delving into the obscenity of violence, exploitation and abuses of power. Lots of imagery around the colour red, seemingly a metaphor for blood, flesh and sex to showcase the fullness of despair, hopelessness and darkness. As it's hard to make out the lyrics and with the way the instrumentals are arranged it's very easy to fall into the trap of tapping along and enjoying the music without realising that there are some really heavy things lying in waiting. Best: The Hanging Garden Worst: Siamese Twins 3.5 Stars

TV On The Radio's Dear Science is more of an indie/electro/rock style of an album. Not sure why it was classed as the best album of 2008 by a number of major publications, considering things like Kanye's "808s & Heartbreak" and Kings of Leon's "Only by the Night" were out the same year. Best: Family Tree Worst: Lover's Day

Only ever heard one song by Lynyrd Skynyrd, and it was not on this album. Overall it's an ok album fitting into country blues rock style which I'm not really a fan of. Best: Gimme Three Steps Worst: Mississippi Kid

Nice house/dance vibes with Snivilisation, great to chill out to or have in the background whilst working/studying. Best: Science Friction Worst: Are We Here?

Tuesday Night Music Club has a very familiar sound and voice where it takes you back to an earlier time. Although most of the songs on the album don't really live up to "All I Wanna Do", overall it's an ok listen. Best: All I Wanna Do Worst: No One Said It Would Be Easy

I feel I've heard of the Pretenders from an older uncle or aunty who were really into them. I can see where the hype would have been back in the day a pop/punk outfit that would appeal to a lot of people. Best: Brass in Pocket Worst: Private Life

It's a very stripped back indie folk album which goes through the musings of a man going through some stuff and feels a little personal. Best: Death To Everyone Worst: Today I Was An Evil One Note: This Album is NOT available on Spotify - needed to head to YouTube to listen to it.

Thankfully Spotify had both the UK and US versions of the album. After listening to the UK version, initially, I thought it was a perfectly good album by the Rolling Stones, but there was something lacking from it to elevate it to the next level. Then I decided to listen to the US version, and instantly found what was missing - "Paint it Black" along with the arrangement and placement of songs throughout the album. It really is amazing what changing around, adding and cutting a few songs does to an overall album sound and flow. I found the US release much tighter and flowed so much better than the UK version. Where the songs had more cohesion as a whole and sonically seemed to make better sense. Best: Paint It Black Worst: What To Do

Let's be real here - "Proud Mary" is the only good song on this album. Wikipedia definitely had it right in calling this genre 'Swamp Rock'. Listening to this feels like I've been transported to the deep American south where we're in either a trailer park or down by some swampy lake fishing. (If that's what they were going for then I guess they nailed it?). Two stars only for Proud Mary. Best: Proud Mary Worst: Graveyard Train Note: Spotify had the 40th Anniversary Deluxe Edition - I only listened to the songs on the original album.

A slightly different take on the concept album by structuring it as a live album, it does add a bit of flair and interest to it overall. A good acid/psych rock album with a bit of blues thrown in for good measure. The album cover certainly is unique. It gives an overview of what to expect from the album - as though it was a live show played out in comic. Although, some of those drawings in particular wouldn't fly in today's market. Best: I Need A Man To Love Worst: Ball & Chain Note: Spotify had the re-release album with bonus tracks - I only listened to the original songs.

One of the first bands to use the term psychedelic rock - if you couldn't tell by the colourful trip-inducing album cover. The use of the "hillbilly" jug as a sound is thankfully not too prominent and blends in quite well. Overall, a good psych rock album, although there weren't too many standouts. Best: You're Gonna Miss Me Worst: Don't Fall Down 2.5 Stars Note: Spotify had the 2008 Remaster Edition, but I only listened to the original tracks

Very dreamy and ethereal. I will say though I am pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed it. Whilst at the time of release I can see how it would have been quite out there and different. This would not have been the same record had they not included the backing drums on each of the tracks. It reminds me of the "Mermaid Song" from Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire movie. It's a good album to pop on when you're in the mood for a chill/space-out session. Best: Ivo Worst: Amelia

I'd heard of the name Frank Zappa, but never any of his songs. It was an interesting - mostly instrumental - ride that has some great guitar solos with a pop of sax and surprisingly organs. Wouldn't mind some of these popping up on a playlist randomly. Best: Peaches En Regalia Worst: Willie The Pimp

Quite a progressive album from The Smiths for the time it was released. There is clearly a lot of underlying dissent to the archaic way Morrissey was treated in school and yet it's also very forward thinking, contrary to the popular sentiment of eating meat as well as jokes at other's expense not being ok. Best: That Joke Isn't Funny Anymore Worst: Nowhere Fast

Blegh. This is very much in the genre of "Adult Contemporary" and just about put me to sleep. Could not get into this album at all. She must have some listeners to have been around all these years but jeez, dunno who would listen to her willingly. Best (of a bad bunch): Constant Craving Worst (saying something): Season Of Hollow Soul

This album was a nice mix between Hip-Hop and Electronica, a nice easy listen and good to pop on and nod your head to - but would have been amazing to see at a festival. It was nice to hear some female vocals throughout the album - something that was not common at the time of release. Best: Connected Worst: Chicken Shake

A real iconic album from Kanye and a great follow up from 808s & Heartbreak. There are several songs on the album that are still in rotation on many playlists (as of Jan 2022) that never fail to please. At times throughout it can be a bit self-indulgent with the extra long tracks. (9 min+). Best: Power; Monster Worst: Devil In a new Dress

Could this album be any longer? I get that this is a progressive album hearing life perspectives from the female side, and the whole classroom vibe at the end of some of the songs being about learning fitting into the vibe of the album cover and title. But sheesh it gave me a headache and almost put me to sleep at work. Any way something could have been cut from it's 77 minute track list? Best: Can't Take My Eyes Off You (I Love You Baby) Worst: When It Hurts So Bad

Overall it was an alright album. Laid back and chill if not a little slow, nothing really stood out and grabbed my attention. Best: Strength of Strings Worst: Some Misunderstanding

An ok album that had a chill but haunting vibe to it overall. Best: Starstruck Worst: Idiot Brother 2.5 Stars

This is one long album clocking in at 77 minutes one of the longer albums I've listened to so far throughout this journey. It's blues rock focus can at times feel a bit repetitive and a lot of the guitar solos could have neatened up the album a bit. Best: Bell Bottom Blues; Layla Worst: Key to the Highway

This is a surprisingly deeper album than I would have expected. Missy's love for the overall hip-hop community really shines through. With all of the intro/outros throughout the album really hark back to where she came from and pays tribute to who came before her (I'm not normally a fan of intros/outros). She really brings the love for the music and the music alone and does away with the huge egos and all of the unnecessary 'gangsta' deaths. Best: Work It Worst: Slide

After reading a little background of the album, it's indeed a very sad state of affairs. It is clear whilst listening to it that there the lead singer is not in a good place mentally and physically with documented reports of self-harm, anorexia nervosa, alcohol abuse and depression. The lyrical themes reflect heavily on politics and human suffering, yet it's one of those albums if you weren't paying too much attention to the lyrics themselves you'd happily bop along to the songs themselves without realising it's true meaning. Best: Yes Worst: Ifwhiteamericatoldthetruthforonedayit'sworldwouldfallapart

Wow, initially listening I thought I could get on board with this album the first couple of tracks were a little kooky but manageable. Then came "A Very Cellular Song" - all 13 mins of it and it was just about as much as my mind could handle. The trippy lyrics and use of sitars and finger cymbals was way too much for me and I was definitely not high enough to appreciate much else. Some of the vocals (not sure who was responsible for them) reminded me of Italian folk music (similar era so maybe it was a thing) where the singing gets all whiny sounding like having a stomach ache. Which is what it gave me to be honest, not very pleasant. Best: The Minotaur's Song Worst: A Very Cellular Song

Something in the back of my mind thought there was something familiar with the band Cream, but couldn't put my finger on it. Then I heard the second track off the album and the bell went off. Overall Disraeli Gears is an wonderful and eclectic mix of pulling away from blues rock and diving headfirst into psychedelic rock. A lot of the tracks don't really make much sense lyrically and fit exactly in the psych era. Best: Sunshine of Your Love Worst: Blue Condition 3.5 Stars

There is as really chilled urban landscape vibe to the entire album. At times it can be a little slow and drawn out. It was slated for initial release on September 11, the cover image and some of the songs were later seen as an allegory to the attacks although the album was recorded before the attack had ever occurred. A very interesting coincidence. Best: Heavy Metal Drummer Worst: Kamera

What a great punk rock album. It really captured and embodied that teen/early adulthood angst. With shredding distortion and punching lyrical delivery, this is one I wish I had heard earlier. Best: No Time to Be 21 Worst: Bombsite Boy Note: Spotify had all the 2002 release with Single Edits & Live performances. I only listened to the original 13 tracks.

A neo/psych/synth rock album that was a pleasant listen with a dreamlike quality to the whole thing. Too bad one of the band members are a total piece of shite. Best: Static Resistance Worst: Each Time We Pass

I had almost forgotten how playful and outrageous Eminem's early lyrics were, interspersed with those skits. Eminem gives the world a glimpse into his lower socio-economic class upbringing (although potentially slightly exaggerated). His flow throughout is quite loose and free coupled with his cartoonish, satirical alter ego, makes for a fun listen. Anyone taking these lyrics at face value need to check themselves. Best: My Name Is Worst: Role Model

An ok alt-rock album that has paved the way for some similar sounds we hear in today's music. Some of the songs could have had less instrumentals and be tightened up a little. Best: I Wanna Be Adored Worst: I am the Resurrection

I was surprised at how much I enjoyed this album and although I have heard of the Eagles, I haven't really listened to much and thought they were just American Country. Hotel California is a great concept album by their own admission. It embodies all of the themes and connotations of what California encompasses, the allure of the glitz and glamour of Hollywood but it also speaks to the illusion of it all. Best: Hotel California; The New Kid in Town Worst: The Last Resort

It's so weird to see Bono without his trademark glasses. The Joshua Tree is really one of those quintessential albums, I had always discounted it being just a bunch of hype (never listening to it in it's entirety before now), but it definitely holds it's own. The powerful voice of Bono with the smooth arrangement of the music and backing vocals make it a powerhouse album with a cinematic quality. Lyrically, it was the beginning of U2's sociopolitical awakening with embellishments of spiritual imagery. Best: With Or Without You Worst: Trip Through Your Wires

Although it's from the 90s (let's say late 80s really) Shake Your Money Maker sounds like it's from the mid 70s. I'll have to agree with this Entertainment Weekly review which sums up the sound of the album: "The Black Crowes are to the early Rolling Stones what Christian Slater is to the young Jack Nicholson: a self-conscious imitation, but fine enough in its own right." Best: Jealous Again Worst: She Talks to Angels

Strangeways, Here We Come is filled with a familiar sound. But honestly, nothing really stood out with a wow factor, but it was a good solid album nonetheless. Best: Death of a Disco Dancer Worst: Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me

This record probably houses two of Cyndi's most famous releases - Girls Just Wanna Have Fun and Time After Time. It's a very pop heavy record, with the iconic sounds of the 80s including heavy synths and electronic drum beats. Coupled with Cyndi on the album cover, full of costume jewellery, fishnets, bright make-up and that glorious mullet, it signals a grand entrance to what 80s pop was really known for. Best: Girls Just Wanna Have Fun; Time After Time Worst: All Through the Night

I feel in listening to this album, I'm missing a lot of context regarding very, very specific references to the state of Illinois. This album gives off a carnival vibe to me, perhaps it's the vast array of instrumentation and whimsical nature of it all. But my god, it's such a looooonnnngggg album! And the song titles aren't lacking in length either! Best: Jacksonville Worst: Come On! Feel the Illinoise!" (Part I: The World's Columbian Exposition – Part II: Carl Sandburg Visits Me in a Dream) 2.5 Stars.

It was an ok album, not sure if the collaboration with Wings added much to what really feels like a Paul McCartney Album. When you find out that the production of this album, was just Paul & Linda and one of the members from Wings, it all begins to add up. There are many familiar sounds throughout, but definitely didn't hold up to the Beatles heyday. Best: Jet Worst: Picasso's Last Words (Drink to Me)

White Light / White Heat is a fantastic foray into very early punk rock. The Velvet Underground were lyrically transgressive, and likely one of the first bands to demonstrate to the audience, through their lyrics, that they were the embodiment of Sex, Drugs and Rock 'n' Roll. Best: Whole Album Worst: N/A Note: the Link to the album above on Spotify is the deluxe version. I only listened to the original album.

Frampton's live album was a good stadium rock album. Never heard of Frampton himself, but didn't realise he was the one behind 'Baby I Love the Way'. You can really feel the energy of the crowd in this one, and after 2.5 years of no live music from COVID it felt really good to hear. Best: Baby I Love the Way Worst: Lines on My Face

Absolute perfection. Adele's 21 was my first real introduction to her and I instantly fell in love. From 'Rolling in the Deep' to 'Someone Like You' 21 doesn't miss a beat. With almost half of the album released as singles, along with topping the music charts in over 30 countries, it's not hard to see how much of an impact this has had within the music world. Adele's soulful voice coupled with her deeply personal trials and tribulations that resonate with so many worldwide, and is touted as one of the best break-up albums ever created. Best: All of it Worst: N/A

A live album that felt like it captured all the high and lowlights of a concert - including lots of interspersed talking and long ass guitar solos. I'm not sure if it was the way it was cut in studio or not , but it seemed to drag on a little towards the end. Best: Shaking All Over Worst: Amazing Journey/Sparks

I actually didn't mind listening to this album. I did think going in, that it would be unbearable considering the runtime reaches almost an hour long. But the beats and flow of Jurassic 5 were able to keep my head bopping along. The fan interaction at the end of "If You Only Knew" was definitely an unexpected highlight, it really captured the essence of an Aussie fan - no matter what they're a fan of you can expect a similar reaction. Best: Freedom Worst: One of Them

It was an ok country rock album, perhaps those late nights/multiple days of recording hindered the overall quality of the album. Best: It Doesn't Matter Worst: Hide it So Deep

An absolute classic album! Although more "polished" than their previous album, Nevermind is a cornerstone of the grunge movement in the early '90s. Although the band - in particular Kurt Cobain - resented some of it's success, it truly brought grunge to the masses. Everyone under the age of 25 at the time, would have sold their soul for a ticket to any of their shows. Best: Smells Like Teen Spirit; Come as You Are Worst: Lounge Act

Paris 1919 is a very poetic take on the pop genre, and thankfully had a reasonable runtime. With numerous pop-rock influences and countless literary and cultural references throughout it makes for a rich listen. Likely John Cale's most famous work "Paris 1919" he described it as "an example of the nicest ways of saying something ugly." Best: Paris 1919; Antarctica Starts Here Worst: Hanky Panky Nohow 2.5 Stars

The Go-Go's are one of the original all girl pop punk bands. What a joy to listen to this album in full. I was already across their two main hits in Our Lips Are Sealed and We Got the Beat, but the whole album was full of great songs that really makes you feel like you're a part of their girls club, in the best possible way. Best: Our Lips Are Sealed; We Got the Beat Worst: Skidmarks On My Heart

An ok jazz instrumental album, but to my untrained Jazz ear nothing really stood out. Best: Unhomé Worst: Ingoo Pow-Pow (Children's Song)

An ok album a little more upbeat and reggae than I expected (particularly on Mother and Child Reunion). I expected it to be a lot more 'folksy' than it was. As it was Simon's first solo album it probably felt good to experiment with what he wanted to do rather than to also be tied to Garfunkel's whims. Best: Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard Worst: Hobo's Blues

It was a good boppy pop punk album that really showcased the youth of the time. Best: Teenage Kicks Worst: I know a Girl Note: Listened to the 2016 remastered version on Spotify to avoid the anniversary edition.

A really high octane outing that is probably a seminal rock album at a time of style transition. It really bridges the gap in between a more 80s style of hard/glam rock to what has now become known as garage/grunge rock. Repeater's subject matter addresses a wide variety of themes such as greed, violence, sexuality, privacy, drug abuse and death. Of which the themes are at the forefront of the grunge movement. Best: Repeater Worst: Brendan 1

This is an album that is meant to be taken as is. From what I have read about Bragg & Wilco, their styles differ quite a lot in comparison to this album. Mermaid Avenue is really about bringing to life the lyrics of American folk singer Woody Guthrie. Personally I think what Bragg & Wilco were able to do with the limited references to the music stylings (Guthrie was really only a lyrics man) were quite remarkable, although not my favourite style of music I can appreciate what they have done. Best: California Stars Worst: Birds and Ships

I can see how the Shaft Soundtrack went onto influence future movie soundtracks - especially those with a predominantly black cast. It's a very catchy offering, provides some good background music, coupled with some funky items that will no doubt get you into the feel of the movie itself. Best: Theme From Shaft Worst: No Name Bar

Live at the Apollo was a great jazz album that lead itself as something akin to a time capsule. It is wonderful to experience the energy from the crowd back in the day. Any woman over the age of 60 who complain about the way girls go gaga for singers these days, should take a good listen to this album, nothing has changed. Best: Try Me Worst: Think

It is a solid prog rock album that takes the listener on a musical journey. The title track (with its many parts) was a great listen and the conceptual-ness of it all allowed me to really think about themes such as life, religion, war, death and the fate of the world. Being not as experimental, I felt the second half was lacking in overall feel and sound in comparison. They almost sound like two different albums. Best: Tarkus (all parts) Worst: A Time and a Place

Copper Blue by Sugar sounds like the type of music that you'd find in a 90s to early 00s teen angsty movie or tv show. This album is only helped by the fact that it came out around the time of the Nirvana Boom in 1991. Best: Man On The Moon Worst: The Slim

Done By the Forces Of Nature takes you back to the golden age of Hip Hop with their afro-centric lyrics and sampling music from all kinds of genres. It felt like being transformed back to the 80s surrounded by a crew of b-boy dancers. Best: What U Waitin' 4? Worst: In Dayz 2 Come

It was a very expansive record, ELO takes us on a journey through space and time with the mix of orchestral sounds and experimental electronica. Perhaps it might take a few more listens to really get a feel for it, but it didn't grab me as much as the iconic album cover. Best: Starlight Worst: Mr. Blue Sky

A Nod's As Good As a Wink... to a Blind Horse was the first time I'd heard of Faces, then to find out that in it was Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood was a nice surprise. A very succinct album that hit all the right notes for a country/blues rock album. Best: Stay With Me Worst: Last Orders

Didn't realise that The xx have been around since 2009! It feels like they only really came into consciousness in the last few years (being 2022 atm), but upon reflection it really has been a long time! The xx have a way of making music that just slips into you consciousness and take over your soul without you even noticing it's there. Best: Intro; Shelter Worst: N/A

LP1 is very soulful and hymn like in quality, yet has a sensuality that draws you in. FKA Twigs' futuristic take on R&B, melds into electronica quite nicely, and is uniquely it's own thing. Best: Two Weeks Worst: Numbers 3.5 Stars (so very close to 4 stars)

Overall a very grandiose record, especially with the string sections throughout and Kate's ethereal voice. The title track was a little hot & heavy to be listening to at work, but the subject matter of the rest of the album twists and transforms, never really knowing what you'll get next. I can see how Kate Bush was popular, but its not something that I'd reach out to listen to on the regular. Best: Love and Anger Worst: Between a Man and a Woman

Such a seminal album, this was my first full listen to it and its an amazing concept that really hits hard. The overarching story throughout takes you on a the titular "Pink's" journey that was likely similar for many post WWII children, from their experiences then moving onto adulthood an the trials, tribulations and insecurities that come with growing up and being a part of a post war world. Best: Another Brick in the Wall Pt. 2 Worst: Waiting for the Worms

The Pogues' second album is full of very good drinking songs, and most of it wouldn't go astray on a pirate ship at all (judging by the album cover - it's very appropriate). A super fun listen! Best: The Sickbed of Cuchulainn Worst: And the Band Played Waltzing Matilda (seemed really out of place on an Irish album with such thick accents) 3.5 Stars

It was an ok listen overall, the themes of discovering oneself and experimentation in all kinds of forms. A witty insight into the youth of the mid-90s that takes some inspiration from the past and can undoubtedly inspire future generations. Best: If You're Feeling Sinister Worst: Like Dylan in the Movies

Pump was almost a surprise to listen to - whilst I've heard a bit about Aerosmith, I didn't realise how much their lyrics really leant into the 'sex, drugs & rock 'n' roll' stereotype pretty hard - guess that's why its a stereotype, it needed to be somewhat true! Aerosmith come out with all guns blazing on this record with exactly what you'd expect from a hard metal/glam rock band. Most surprising of the record for me was Janie's got a Gun and the themes surrounding it, not a topic I had pictured Aerosmith singing about. Best: The Other Side Worst: Monkey On My Back

Rubber Soul was a great first time listen. It still amazes me as to how effortless The Beatles songwriting and musicianship feels. Quite literally each song on the record could have been a single. Beginning to see some of that psychedelic influence that was quite separate from their initial sound. But this was not so far removed that it still would have been palatable for those that fell in love with their original sound. Best: Drive My Car Worst: Run For Your Life

The Fat of The Land is a super high octane outing from Prodigy, in which you'd really expect no less. With the controversy of 'Smack my Bitch Up', it only saw to drive the popularity of the record itself and cement Prodigy as psych-electro gods. I know 'Breathe' is more about the pull that drugs can have, but it has been a part of my workout soundtrack for the better part of at least the last 20 years (which blows my mind!), and it always gets me to push further. Best: Breathe Worst: Narayan

Literally only know of ZZ Top from the song 'La Grange' and that Billy Gibbins is Angela's dad in the TV Show Bones. Thankfully 'La Grange' was on this record. Overall it was a little meh. Gibbins' guitar shredding is probably the only thing that saved the entire album. Best: La Grange Worst: Hot, Blue and Righteous

Overall a decent grunge/metal album by Alice in Chains. It's a very emotional album that deals with some heavy subjects including depression, pain, anger and war that are played out with such raw emotion. Best: Dirt Worst: Would?

Hypocrisy Is The Greatest Luxury is an ok album that speaks to many issues of the time, and unfortunately still to a degree speaks to today's plights faced by many not just in the US but around the world. Best: The Winter of the Long Hot Summer Worst: Water Pistol Man

A great debut from Dizzee, it definitely brought the UK grime movement to the mainstream masses. This album seems more raw and unpolished in comparison to his later works, but doesn't suffer from it's "green-ness". There are pockets in the album where his flow is not quite there, but there are gems where you can see he's taken that flow and honed it. Best: I Luv U Worst: 2 Far 3.5 Stars

An interesting contemporary/world music album that put together a whole bunch of sounds and evoked a feeling of whimsy. Not a favourite, but could potentially have a couple of tracks on as background music. Best: Merengue Worst: Duck for the Oyster

There's a reason why Jay-Z is one of the top rappers of the late 90s/early 00s, and this album is one of them. Overall it was a decent hip-hop album, but I think it's just the style of late 90s/early 00s hip-hop that I have never really enjoyed, but there's no doubt that this album had a huge influence at the time. Best: Izzo (H.O.V.A.); Renegade Worst: Jigga That Nigga

A pretty boring album by the Greatful Dead. Felt like any other country rock from the 70s. Best: Truckin' Worst: Candyman

Goldie was able to create an expansive atmosphere, coupled with ethereal vocals and a litany of stringed instruments. Timeless is truly a timeless album that will always take you back to the mid 90s house/trance scene. Best: Timeless Worst: Adrift

Lost in the Dream was an ok prog-rock/Americana album, however I feel it was let down by the Americana that came through. It was an easy listen albeit with one that was filled with half an album full of songs that were over 6 mins each. Best: The Haunting Idle Worst: Eyes to the Wind

Just gonna start off by saying that Marilyn Manson scared the crap out of me as a kid, and to be quite honest, still kinda scares me today 😬 There is no doubt however that he is the master of heavy industrial/gothic rock/metal, and Antichrist Superstar is definitely up there. A horror filled concept outing that revolves around a supernatural being who seizes all power from humanity, driven by resentment, and despair, he uses this position to destroy the world. It can also be seen as a social critique, using this storyline as a metaphor for the perceived fascist elements of the conservative political movement and the Christian right in North America. (This is not the first album that I have listened to where themes that were relevant over 25-30 years ago are still very much in the forefront of the American people's minds.) Best: Beautiful People Worst: Tourniquet

It was an ok blues/rock album that really didn't bring much to the table. Felt like there was a heavier blues influence rather than rock, even though at the time there was the transition phase between the classical blues/blues rock and what we now know today as rock. Best: You Shook Me Worst: Blues Deluxe Note: Spotify had the Remastered album with additional songs, I only listened to the original tracks from the album.

I've only ever heard of Bjork because of her - shall we say - out-there dress at the Oscars in 2001. So it almost comes as no surprise that she is donning that exact dress on the cover of Vespertine. This album was an overall nice surprise, as what little press I'd heard of Bjork was all about the swan dress, and how strange it was. Of which I then formed a pre-conceived notion of what her music sounded like, and that it wouldn't be something I would enjoy. The ethereal like quality to her music, draws you in with her understated beats and unique voice, of which I would liken to someone like Norwegian artist Aurora, paired with the sensuality of FKA Twigs. Best: Aurora Worst: Heirloom

The The's Soul Mining is a strange combination of 80s punk, synth and weirdly reggae-like in parts. It feels too convoluted and all over the place for me. Not a fan. Best: Soul Mining Worst: This Is The Day

Isaac Hayes has to be the master of ultra smooth soul. This album, as the title suggests, is nothing but fully Hot Buttered Soul. Although the tracks are lengthy, it has a way about it that will just mellow you out and take you to another place. Best: Walk On By Worst: By The Time I Get To Phoenix

It's funny that sometimes, you can look at an album cover - not knowing the artist or what the album will remotely be like and just pick the style of music that it will contain. Devendra Banhart's Rejoicing In The Hands definitely fits the bill for this. Overall the slow indie/folk vibe seems to be alright for popping on in the background, or would fit seamlessly into countless indie movies/TV shows from the early/mid 00s. Best: Insect Eyes Worst: When the Sun Shone on Vetiver

With the wide range of sounds, genres and influences that are present in A Night at the Opera, you would think that there would be no coherency and that it would be all over the place. However, Queen manage to wrap it all up in a neat bow, hell there's even an instrumental version of the British National Anthem to tie it altogether! AJ Ramirez of PopMatters sums the album up much more eloquently than I have "... while the transitions between genres would conceivably throw listeners for a loop, none are jarring. Instead, Queen succeeds because it pulls from all the best tricks in the library of showbiz history to deliver laughs, heartache, grandeur, and spectacle to its audience at precisely the right moments." Best: Bohemian Rhapsody (cliche I know) Worst: Good Company

Blackstar truly sounds like its both written and sung by someone who is knocking on deaths door. Unfortunately for wider humanity, this was indeed the case for Bowie. Blackstar has quite an experimental sound with a mish mash of genres entwined from jazz to art rock onto industrial rock, folk pop and hip hop. Although not Bowie's best work, it is indeed a fitting end to what was a groundbreaking and illustrious career of a legend of music. Best: Lazarus Worst: Dollar Days

John Barleycorn Must indeed Die. What even was this album? I for one would not want this to be played in Traffic or I'd be the one raging on the road! Did not like the weird mix of folk jazz and what I'd call jamming with mates in public. It's not great at all. The singing makes me almost want to spew up - it's got that sound of when you have an extremely sore stomach and you make that cry out/wail in pain sound. Best: Freedom Rider (juuuust) Worst: Empty Pages

A perfectly fine jazz album, another one to pop in a chill background music playlist. Nothing particularly offensive but perhaps a little too mellow for my taste - it definitely feels off the cuff, but in the most practiced way. Best: Solar: Live At The Village Vanguard Worst: All Of You: Live At The Village Vanguard

A very eclectic mix of sounds ranging from Bollywood and Sitars that was mixed with rap and Salsa dancing. I think it would be worth a listen to as a full album as it's kinda fun but also a little strange. Not sure how I feel about it as a whole because of how disjointed it felt trying to find as many tracks as possible. Only 2 songs were on Spotify AU. Could not find "Te Estoy Buscando", "Doña Isabelle" and "Nadie Te Tira"; for "Santiago" only found a drum cover, not ideal but could get a feel for it. Best (from what I heard): Love and Hope Worst (from what I heard): Ya Viene El Sol

Wow, this is the definition of white trash. It's so misogynistic and sexist it just sounds like the definition of a rich white boy getting his rap on, and definitely not in a good way. Also, what's with the kid (as in it sounds like an actual child) rapping on Devil without a Cause?? The whole album has this weird fusion of country, rap and rock, and at 71 minutes in length it is WAY too long, and almost wish I had skipped listening to this, the only saving grace was listening to Eminem's verse on Fuck Off. Best: Fist of Rage Worst: Cowboy

A good easy listening to, brit rock album. Even with the dark undertones, full of lament and asking for forgiveness for moving on from the disappearance of their rhythm guitarist Richey Edwards (who has since been presumed dead). Overall, it has the sentiment of a bittersweet album, wrapped up in an upbeat rock album. Best: Everything Must Go Worst: Kevin Carter

What a debut album by The Doors! An absolute instant classic masterpiece that helped usher in the era of psychedelic rock and was even touted as inspiration for The Beatles Sgt. Pepper album. In true psychedelic style, the drug references are numerous as are the sexual innuendos whilst we delve into the altered mind of Morrisey. Best: Break On Through (To The Other Side) Worst: N/A

An absolute classic hip-hop album from NWA. Straight Outta Compton moved straight into the hearts of millions, even through all the controversy. In particular, after 6 months of playing Fuck Tha Police, Australia's youth radio station Triple J were censored from playing it, and subsequently staged a protest. The entire station went on strike and Express Yourself was put on repeat for 24 hours (350 times) instead of regular programming. The entre album is full of energy and angst, that allows everyone living outside their way of life to begin to understand and appreciate. Best: Fuck Tha Police; Express Yourself Worst: If It Ain't Ruff

Sorry, just don't get the hype of Lenny Kravitz. Yeah he's a good vocalist, good looking and basically this entire album is a one man show (apart from a couple of songs co-written by his then wife Lisa Bonnet), but it doesn't really offer me much else. Best: Fear Worst: Mr. Cab Driver 2.5 Stars

Kimono My House is the glammiest of glam rock albums. It's full of quirky lyrics and upbeat tempo and very, very high falsetto (guess it could've been a byproduct of the '70s tight pants too! haha). Overall, it was a decent glam rock album - even if that high falsetto threw me a little to begin with. Best: Equator Worst: In My Family

So boppy and up-tempo it really makes you want to tap your feet and do a little ske-doodley-bop dance (don't ask what that means, I've got no idea). If one were to head to a cool jazz bar, you would totally expect something like this to be playing. Best: Take 5 Worst: Kathy's Waltz

The slow, somber timbre of the album now makes sense when you learn that Neil Young had a broken back and recorded this at his farm, where he literally couldn't play any other instrument other than an acoustic guitar. Whilst it does provide some grandeur and atmosphere, The London Symphony Orchestra is able to lift the album in parts a little, however sadly, it doesn't provide much in the way of lifting the album up entirely. Best: Heart of Gold Worst: A Man Needs A Maid Note: Most of this album is not available on Spotify so had to find a YouTube stream of it (thankfully not too difficult).

A perfectly ok album that straddles the bridge between jazz and more of a pop rock focus, I believe the term is yacht rock (whatever that is). It is quite a smooth and chilled out album, which is an ok listen for a background music playlist IMO. Best: Peg Worst: I Got The News

Numan's The Pleasure Principle is likely one of the pioneering records for what is now the big synth movement of the 80s. Was not expecting the M.E. track, it was quite distracting though, I kept expecting Basement Jaxx to yell out in my headset. And I really enjoyed Asylum, it had a dark haunting quality that would be home in a good sci-fi show or movie. Best: M.E. ; Asylum Worst: Oceans

Why in the world is this album on this list. With all of the great albums that were released between 2005 and 2010, what even is this entry?? I've never even heard of this guy - I'm not saying that alt music shouldn't be included but c'mon. Nothing interesting, quite bland and broody sounding, perhaps it's included for that "alternative" or "interesting" voice in the new album lineup. Best: Outer Space Worst: JC Hates Faggots

A solid punk album that took us on a journey through the funny awkwardness of adolescence coming into adulthood. Best: Unsatisfied Worst: Sixteen Blue Note: Spotify had an extended version album however I only listened to the original 11 tracks.

I wasn't sure what to expect from this album but I was pleasantly surprised. The Songhoy Blues' story is truly inspiring, from having to flee their country where the new regime, among other things, banned music. Although they don't look like your traditional blues band, they certainly play like one. It is the perfect blend of that blues sound we are all familiar with, combined perfectly with Malian groove. Best: Nick Worst: Al Tchere Bele

I haven't heard too much music from Stevie Wonder but have definitely heard his name, however I didn't really expect the sound from the album. I envisioned that Innervisions would have more of a saxophone jazz sound rather than the piano style jazz it has. (I may be confusing Stevie with Bleeding Gums Murphy from The Simpsons 🤦‍♀️(please don't crucify me!!)) Overall a solid album that has the smooth/funky sounds of soul and jazz that has a way of seamlessly working serious themes without being too in your face. Best: All In Love Is Fair Worst: He's Misstra Know-It-All

An great debut post-punk album that sounds so familiar in today's ears. It's exactly what lots of teen punk/rock bands aspire to produce, something that's moody, mysterious, full of angst, horror and despair. Best: Rescue Worst: Happy Death Men

Soundgarden is the epitome of the soundscape of the rock/metal/grunge of the 90s. Chris Cornell & Co were able to successfully pivot from their earlier punk influences and transform it into a truly fresh sound, with obvious new influences such as Nirvana. It's easy to see how Soundgarden are generally known for being stoner music, and with Superunknown being a long album, but it's definitely worth the listen (even if your're not high). Best: Black Hole Sun Worst: Half

Heaux Tales is a very poignant album, released in 2021, with themes of feminism, sexuality, classism, body-shaming and all other struggles that women face, and seems to have become even more relevant in mid 2022. Having never heard of Jazmine Sullivan she is not my general go to listen or even something to have in rotation on a playlist, however I can see the importance of this album in the overall worldview. Best: Pick Up Your Feelings Worst: The Other Side

A look into the absolute rawness and absolute genius of Nirvana. This set contains songs that are so unbelievably vulnerable, and filled with so much passion - particularly for an acoustic set (even if the guitar was run through an amp). Their covers are just as good - if not better than their originals in this set, who can look past their cover of Bowie's The Man Who Sold The World. This performance will go down as one of the greatest live sets of all time, especially as to how soon after this performance we lost Kurt. Best: The Man Who Sold The World Worst: Oh Me 4.5 Stars

Ten is one of those quintessential rock albums of the 90s. Coming around the time of Nirvana, it's another album that helped the grunge/alt-rock movement shoot straight into the consciousness of the mainstream - no matter how much they were maligned as sellouts - eventually even outselling Nevermind. The lyrics tend to lend themselves to heavier subjects, pretty much standard for that alt-rock scene. What brings this album alive is the anthemic sounds on tracks such as Jeremy & Alive. Best: Jeremy Worst: Release

"It's a Saturday night, I have no date, but a two litre bottle of Shasta, and my all Rush Mix-Tape. Let's Rock" *Space Invaders shooting sound plays* - Fry, Futurama This is my one and only intro to Rush, and was mildly disappointed that the record didn't really come with a Space Invaders overlay. But in all seriousness many songs in Moving Pictures would work well in any playlist (or mix-tape - let's keep that theme going), for a huge gaming sesh or even a workout sesh. For a band's eighth studio album that ain't bad at all in my books. Best: YYZ Worst: Witch Hunt

This is totally the sound I had envisioned when hearing about Hendrix. Its got the psychedelia, it's got the guitars and all of the guitar solos which are undoubtedly absolute top notch. However, that is not enough to save many of the songs of the album of which are quite frankly forgettable. Axis: Bold As Love has an airiness to it, where it is easy to see how Hendrix & team have a high (pun intended) association with hippies and stoners. Looking at the album cover will definitely trip you out. Best: Castles Made Of Sand Worst: One Rainy Wish

Funk, soul and rock all rolled into one. Perfectly ok, but nothing that blew my mind. Best: The Lady Worst: The Highways of My Life

Ah, Crowded House, featuring Neil Finn, one of Australia's favourite not-so-sons. The amount of people that Aussies claim as their own (particularly New Zealanders) it's amazing there's anyone else left to claim! hahah But seriously Crowded House are probably one of the best bands with a New Zealand front-man. It's easy to see with their catchy relatively non-offensive lyrics, and undeniably alluring melodies. Best: Weather With You Worst: Whispers & Moans

Blur's self titled album is an interesting one. For one thing, it's got one of the most recognised hype songs in the world on it, on the other hand, it was jarring to go from Song 2 to Country Sad Ballad Man, mood went way down, and it never really picked back up. I'm really torn with this one, if it wasn't for Song 2 I don't think this album would make the list. That being said I don't think its a bad album, just a little lack-lustre. Best: Song 2 Worst: Essex Dogs

Not a bad folk/punk album (didn't really think I'd string those two genres together) that's full of the plight of the British Battler. It's quite heavy on the political themes, particularly left leaning, and challenging the societal norms. The musicianship is easy to get into and sounds quite uptempo and the message could quite easily get lost in the vibe. Best: Levi Stubs' Tears Worst: Wishing The Days Away Note: Spotify had the reissued edition & I only listened to the original 12 songs from the album.

I can now say that I am indeed Experienced. Hendrix's debut is a classic for a reason. Melding fusions of R&B, Jazz, and a bit of Blues Rock and creates a wholly new style of psychedelic & harder rock. Guitar work throughout is obviously top notch and can't be dismissed, as anything but genius. Best: Purple Haze; Foxy Lady Worst: Third Stone From The Sun 3.5 Stars

Good Lawd. First ABBA Album on the list ticked off for me. ABBA basically sound-tracked a LOT of weddings and events growing up for me and this album doesn't disappoint. How can you go past hits like "Dancing Queen" (absolute all time - fight me!), "Money, Money, Money", "Knowing Me, Knowing You" and "Fernando". However there are definitely some lulls ("Arrival") and problems ("When I Kissed The Teacher"). In spite of this, it's really hard to go past those four hits, which are embedded in our (my) cultural history. Best: Dancing Queen; Money, Money, Money; Knowing Me, Knowing You; Fernando Worst: Arrival

Emergency On Planet Earth was an ok listen, it was more funky and jazz-y than I anticipated from Jamiroquai, although it was filled with Jay Kay's signature voice. Having heard his later radio hits, this album is more experimental and feels like they have a freedom that isn't seen often. The didgeridoo is a nice touch that isn't often been heard, even in Australian popular music. Best: When You Gonna Learn? Worst: Revolution 1993

So I've heard about Moby, but I just thought he was a weird bald dude that made some kinda electronica music. I never really got the hype. But listening to the album, it made me realise that it has been a part of the wider soundscape for at least the last 23 years. There were so many familiar songs throughout, although I couldn't exactly pinpoint from where they were familiar - whether it was movies, ads or TV shows it's been a part of the wider musical zeitgeist. The lo-fi electronic beats, expertly moulded into ambient background music, it was really what I needed at work today. Not to sound too corny, Play took me to a zen, meditative state, where I was really able to focus and remove all intrusive thoughts. Definitely gave LoFi Girl a run for their money. Best: Procelain Worst: N/A

You can always count on Slipknot for some good heavy metal thrash about. Having had listened to this album years ago, I didn't realise how hefty it was, coming in at 72 minutes (for what was the deluxe edition on release) - you're definitely in it for the long haul. The drill-like drumming, heavy distorted guitar riffs and the distinct vocals of Corey Taylor make it a great album in the most part. The latter portion of the album lags a little and lets it down - only slightly. Best: Sulfur Worst: Snuff

This was a great funky pop/rock/new-wave album that I think really stands the test of time. A fantastic debut that feels well and truly like we have entered the 80s with this album, full of hook-laden beats and kitschy vocals. Definitely one to add to the playlist. Best: Rock Lobster Worst: Downtown

If you were to call an album punk/thrashcore jazz - this would be it. Like all good thrashcore music Spy vs Spy is a wild ride that doesn't let up. The frenetic pace of it all and, the fact there are two saxophonists isolated in each ear make it feel like you don't know which direction you're being pulled in, or really what you are listening to. At times it can feel like a noise explosion. I'm quite used to hearing thrashcore when it's coupled with metal music, however with the type of instrumentation used here it's something that is completely foreign and a little grating at times. Best: Ecars Worst: Peace Warriors Note: This album was not on Spotify at all, so had to resort to ol' mate YouTube.

I always thought Iggy Pop was this kooky weird old dude that always performed with his shirt off. But, this album is quite interesting in that, you can definitely hear the Bowie influence in the early part of the album, and the latter half morphs into this almost experimental electronic/rock that has something a little robotic about it, but still feels very Bowie-esque. Best: Sister Midnight Worst: Tiny Girls

Nothing's Shocking was really nothing shocking. I suppose the only shocking thing was really the album cover - thankfully those ladies are just sculptures. With the obvious undertones and not so "under" tones of addiction and all its struggles, it was a totally ok album that left me feeling a little flat. Best: Jane Says Worst: Ted, Just Admit It 2.5 Stars

It was an interesting early sounding ska/punk album that was definitely leaning towards the ska side of things. Not something I'd have in regular rotation. Best: A Message To You Rudy Worst: Too Much Too Young 2.5 Stars

First few songs were pretty boppy and definitely pop-rock. All of a sudden it then switches to the harder angst-filled tune of "My Generation", which was quite new for the time, and then straight back to that pop-rock sound. The latter part of the album turned a little more bluesy and southern american rock. I would liken this album to starting off as Beatles-esque then with an inflection of what could be argued as early punk rock, and ending in the vein of the early works of the Rolling Stones. Best: My Generation Worst: I Don't Mind

Adult contemporary is one of my least favourite genres and Tracy Chapman's self-titled debut is no exception, it's pretty slow and overall kind of unremarkable. Although lyrically, it is charged with social and political commentary, it fails to grab me in any meaningful way. Best: Fast Car Worst: For You 1.5 Stars

The Velvet Underground & Nico was more artsy than I expected however considering it was recorded during an Andy Warhol tour things started to line up. Themes throughout, are quite avant-garde and for the time would have been somewhat confronting, this reflects the limited number of copies that were sold on it's original release. However it's easy to see that it has been very influential to many future bands and releases in the vein of alternative, rock, punk, goth & indie. Best: Sunday Morning Worst: European Son 4.5 Stars

Stevie Wonder is truly a smooth soul singer, Fulfillingness' First Finale is a very easy listen, perfect to ease into the day. It is truly hard to believe that this is his 17th(!!!) album as it feels so effortless both musically and lyrically, although not as dance-y or grandiose as I might have assumed, the subdued nature allowed me to feel the groove of it and had to stop myself from dancing at my desk. His signature harmonicas throughout remind you that you're listening to Stevie (if you needed the reminder). Best: Smile Please Worst: It Ain't No Use

Very folks-y and not really to my taste. There is a lot of whiney sounding lyrics that would be made out as unique, but what it really is, is annoying. Best: The Words That Maketh Murder Worst: England

A real sombre album from Beck, with themes including loneliness, heartbreak and desolation, it proved a turning point for Beck musically. Going from a highly experimental musician to a much more emotionally charged view - both lyrically and sonically. It was an easy listen, however it was pretty mood deflating. Best: Lost Cause Worst: Round the Bend

Overall, it was a good album that really felt like a teenage band, albeit a good one. Plenty of easy to listen to tunes with good riffs and hooks. Best: I Had Too Much To Dream (Last Night) Worst: The Toonerville Trolley

The best thing about this album was the heavy use of psychedelic keyboards, thankfully they quickly replaced the guy who didn't want to play them initially. You would hardly realise that there were several songs that were arranged by individual members alone, in order to cut studio costs, Yes, flows with such ease. Best: Roundabout Worst: Mood For A Day

I keep being surprised at how the early heavier rock songs/albums are so clearly influenced, by blues music, and Led Zeppelin is no exception. However, their difference is they don't overly rely on the Blues sound (personally, I think early Elvis and The Rolling Stones). Also didn't realise that they were English - totally though they were an American band. Best: Good Times Bad Times Worst: You Shook Me 3.5 Stars

It was a good concept album, that I feel upon additional listens it will grow even more on me. The melodic hard rock provides a journey of Tommy's story, but also provides a way to allow listeners to listen to their favourites without needing to be consumed or drawn in by the full operatic piece. Best: Pinball Wizard Worst: Welcome 3.5 stars

The Cars self titled album was an ok listen. It was very reminiscent of the 70s style of pop-rock, however it leant a little more into the synths that would become synonymous with the 80s. Best: Just What I Needed Worst: Bye Bye Love

The absolute genius of Fatboy Slim *chefs kiss*. What a seminal album with some amazing heavy-hitting all time bangers. I was relatively young when this record came out, but all of the singles released were EVERYWHERE, and inescapable. I'd argue that there wasn't a kid in the playground that hadn't at least heard of them - it was all over TV ads and throughout the radio. The Big Beat genre is a perfect mix of electronica, heavy drums, loops and impeccable use of sampling, and Fatboy Slim is one of its masters. Best: Right Here Right Now; Rockafeller Stank; Praise You Worst: Fucking in Heaven

The Temptations failed to tempt me. There were a couple but it didn't really do anything for me. The second half of the album were basically songs on trying to get a girl back with very little luck, seemed a little sad and desperate really. Best: Cloud Nine Worst: I Need Your Lovin’ Spotify didn't have many of the songs- needed to fully listen to the album on YouTube

Listening to this it's like an ambient soundscape production, with the themes of birth, childlike wonder, and love. At times it is slightly strange sounding, but also sounds like the late 90s - almost like a "Bittersweet Symphony" by The Verve vibe. Couldn't understand a word of what was being sung, but it was ethereal nonetheless. Best: Svefn-g-englar Worst: Viðrar vel til loftárása

Eh, well, it was overall an ok record. It's very chill but really not my vibe at all. The best were the two singles that were released. I get that he's basically a musical genius but I just didn't enjoy it. Best: Superstition Worst: You've Got It Bad Girl

An ok album that is full of what I'd term gritty underground pop, thanks to the feedback and fuzz. All that feedback and white noise sound seems to almost be a precursor to the Grunge scene of the 90s. Best: Just Like Honey Worst: It's So Hard

James Taylor sounds like the epitome of the struggling artist. Couch surfing, basically broke when creating this album, and finishing the album well under budget. Heck, to complete the album and get his promised $20k upon completion, mashed together three unfinished songs into one that was cheekily titled "Suite for 20G". Overall it was an ok folk rock album, but didn't really have much to grab me. Best: Fire and Rain Worst: Oh Baby, Don't You Loose Your Lip On Me

Whilst U2 is not my favourite band, I can see why they have a lasting effect on those Gen Xers that absolutely swear by them. One of the truly big stadium rock bands, with mass appeal. Achtung Baby is a fresher take on the alternative rock they have curated previously, with more of an industrial rock/electronic influence throughout. Best: One Worst: Ultra Violet (Light My Way)

Sheer Heart Attack was definitely moved more into the hard/glam rock sound that they were most famous for. There was some great guitar work by May and fantastic as usual vocals from Mercury. Best: Killer Queen Worst: She Makes Me (Stormtrooper In Stilettos) 3.5 Stars

A very lengthy 16 track - 74 minute album. Great album overall but by far not their best. There are a few main standouts, but there's just something lacking throughout. Perhaps it may be knowing their latter works or that they went into their record deal thinking they were just making a bunch of singles, there's a definite lack of cohesion throughout the Homework. Best: Da Funk; Around The World Worst: Teachers

A great thrash metal fusion album that melds a multitude of genres. The diversity of the members of the band really help make it a cohesive release. It's one of those records that helped show the world that metal didn't have to be just a one dimensional thing. It's interesting to see that there were many comparisons between Faith No More and Red Hot Chilli Peppers, not something that I would have associated with initially, but upon listening - the comparison seems a little stretched. Best: Epic Worst: Zombie Eaters

Smooth, sultry understated evening R&B/jazz that will do well in a candlelit dinner or a late night wine bar. Best: Dancewitme Worst: Whenever Wherever Whatever 2.5 Stars

Bridge Over Troubled Water, I thought it was a decent folk album. Although at times it was a bit lacklustre but then there were times that it pulled you in and lifted you up a bit. Best: Cecilia Worst: Bye Bye Love (Live)

Holy crap, I remember buying this album just for "Roses" and "Hey Ya!" but good lord, this album really opened my eyes, at a time where in my life where I thought all mainstream music was filled with 'posers & sell-outs' this felt like a breath of fresh air. (Also looking back, this album is totally inappropriate for a 12-13yo child to listen through multiple times, in particular The Love Below's half of the album). I also forgot that this was a DOUBLE album with a full 20 songs on each disc, with a total runtime of over 2 HOURS, it sill absolutely SLAPS. (Although 'Speakerboxx' is, in my opinion, the stronger of the two halves.) Basically this is two entire albums that OutKast just made their own solo albums, completed in distinct styles, however, complement each other well, and with the multitude of feats on both records, all the accolades are well deserved. Best: GhettoMusick; The Way You Move; Happy Valentine's Day; Hey Ya!; Roses Worst: Unhappy; Bamboo (Interlude); Where Are My Panties? (Interlude)

One of the band members described the album as the "the perfect combination between London melancholy and Sydney sunshine" and I would agree. This album also fits well into the musicsphere of the late 80s indie rock, that's still got typical 80s synths throughout. Best: Streets Of Your Town Worst: I'm Alright

A really weird mish mash of songs and thoughts, lots of short sharp alt-punk guitar heavy tunes that has that typical frenetic pace of a punk album. However this album should have been a quarter of the actual length, it felt way to long for the quick pace of the song lengths. Best: Maybe Partying Will Help; Three Car Jam Worst: Don't Look Now

Generally speaking, not usually a fan of live albums - unless it's an act I'm really into. BB King's Live At The Regal kind of sits in the middle for me. On one hand it's a great masterpiece in amazingly good blues with fantastic guitar solos, but on the other, it's a live album. What this album also is - it's pretty tight, there's no real rambling or over-drawn-out solos, which help keep the vibe up and about, without getting bogged down. Best: How Blue Can You Get? Worst: Woke Up This Mornin'

Hunky Dory is an album that was a part of my life that I never knew existed - I'd heard a good chunk of the songs and they have been in the background but never really knowing where they'd come from. This album serves as a turning point for Bowie and his career, with his next album being Ziggy Stardust, this album was more conventional, however evolved into more of an art rock/pop sound. Best: Life On Mars? Worst: Eight Line Poem 4.5 Stars

Not that great at all, the folksy- guitars and yodel like singing really does nothing for me. No surprise that my "Best" song is a cover. Best: (He's Got) The Whole World in His Hands Worst: Make the Woman Love Me

Too folksy for my liking, that slow drawn out drawl for singing is not my cup of tea. There were some good guitar riffs and solos but really nothing to wow me at all. Best: Veronica Worst: Casbah

Elliot Smith is able to perfectly balance the folk/Americana sound with indie rock, without making it too whiny or annoying. Speaking about what he knows best he is able to weave his experiences from his hometown coupled with the immense personal struggles he was - and continued - to go through. Best: Pictures Of Me Worst: Alameda

One of the seminal gothic rock albums that they tried to go back into that 'indie' space, away from the commercial success, however it just catapulted them into the full force of the mainstream. This album as a whole is decidedly depressing, with the use of slow synthesisers and guitar progressions, it allowed Smith to really get into his feels. However there are glimpses of some more - well I wouldn't call it upbeat, perhaps not as depressing - songs. It feels like they are at their most comfortable throughout this record. Best: Pictures of You Worst: The Same Deep Water As You

The coincidence - or is it irony? - that this album came up on my list the day after QEII passed away? This album was a great follow up from Meat Is Murder. It brings the Smiths back into the Indie Rock fold and it's quite humorous. That slow progressive guitar rock rhythms and synthesisers really bring it into the 80s. Best: The Queen Is Dead Worst: There Is A Light That Never Goes Out

Wouldn't expect anything less funky from The Temptations, they really know how to do a funk. However their traditional funk in the latter half of the album turns into a deep soul that feels very sombre and reflective. It was interesting to learn that they didn't want to record a couple of the songs on the record - one being "Run Charlie Run" due to it's opening lines and the other, with what was undoubtedly their biggest hit of the record in "Papa Was a Rollin' Stone" because the lead singer's father had recently passed away. Best: Funky Music Sho Nuff Turns Me On Worst: Run Charlie Run

A solid indie album that holds up in todays world. There is something in it's soundscape that screams 90s but it's a little hard to put my finger on what it is - perhaps it's the countless 90s teen shows that had soundtracks that were similar sounding. Best: Soul & Fire Worst: Fantastic Disaster

Having heard a lot about Black Sabbath and Ozzy's famous bat biting incident, I've never listened to an album in full. Vol. 4 is full of hard hitting metal, yet with one surprising ballad in "Changes" helps give the album a little nuance. And despite Iommi calling "FX" a total joke, created whilst they were high, it worked pretty well as part of the album. Best: Changes Worst: St. Vitus Dance

Sounds both '80s and early '90s at the same time. Not sure how that happens when it was released in '81. Perhaps that's just the legacy of Siouxsie And The Banshees, having such a rich and diverse sound that endures through the years. Best: Spellbound Worst: Night Shift 3.5 Stars

Depeche Mode's Violator draws you into their moody, hypnotic, synthed out world, full of mystery and deception. With sleek electronics, coupled by synth bass and just a little bit of funk, has an ambient music feel to it, but you know a live show would absolutely go off. Best: Enjoy the Silence; Clean Worst: Blue Dress

I can see a lot of modern acts that have been influenced by Patti Smith. With her powerful rock/punk to the punchiness of her spoken word, she is definitely a seminal artist in the punk rock scene, particularly in New York - even beating The Ramones on this release by 5 months. Patti's style has never gone out of fashion, and has set the tone for smart, unbending female rockers of generations since, and undoubtedly will into the future. Best: Gloria: In Excelsis Deo Worst: Elegie

One of the OG Hip-Hop groups that broke through to the mainstream. Hailing from New York, it definitely has a different feel to that of hip-hop from the West Coast. Wu-Tang feel more freestyle in their flow, which is punctuated by more subtle references to crime and violence and underscored by underground beats and numerous samples. Best: C.R.E.A.M Worst: Tearz

A great thrash metal album that really woke me up this morning! Full of heavy guitar riffs and heart thumping drums really brought the album to life. Having supported Metallica on tour really opened up their audience and cemented them as one of the all-time great thrash metal groups. Best: Caught In A Mosh Worst: One World 3.5 Stars

Industrial hip-hop/electronica/lo-fi sounds often juxtaposed with a backdrop of raw conversations from the underbelly of New York. Relatively easy listen and although the runtime is coming close to an hour, it went by very quickly. What I found most interesting is that David Holmes is not only known for his DJing but also has a long association with creating musical scores, most notably his frequent collaborations with Steven Soderbergh on films such as Killing Eve and the Oceans Trilogy. Best: Rodney Yates Worst: Freaknik

Amnesiac is filled with Industrial sounds that have a slow, sleepy like quality to them. It sounds like it could soundtrack a modern contemporary art installation. Pretty boring overall with at times wailing like singing heard over the top of the soundtrack. Best: Knives Out Worst: Like Spinning Plates

A predominantly instrumental album by Neu, however nonetheless a decent listen. The contrasting styles of the two halves of the album weren't too conflicting and overall complemented each other well. Best: Hero Worst: Leb' Wohl

Typical 60s psych rock band with a bit of funk thrown in for good measure. Moby Grape rightly or wrongly are very Beatles-esque in sound with lots of short and sharp songs to keep you hooked. Best: Sitting By The Window Worst: Changes Note: Spotify didn't have the full album, listened to it on YouTube.

Thought I'd dislike this album more than I did. I think it's saving grace was that it was mercifully short. Nelson has a way with words and is able to evoke feelings of wanting to head out camping in some remote part of the US, sitting in front of a campfire, having some s'mores and strumming on a guitar. Best: Down Yonder Worst: Can I Sleep In Your Arms

Steve McQueen is an interesting mix of pop, rock and jazz - pretty much new-wave without being entirely new-wave if that makes any sort of sense. Prefab Sprout are able to bring together ideas and themes of the joys, fears and disappointments of love. Best: When Love Breaks Down Worst: Blueberry Pies

Some outlets called it one of the "truly essential rock albums of the last few years" (being late 70s), I'd hardly call it that. All Mod Cons is an ok new-wave/punk album, with definite feeling of coming into a very early 80s new wave sound, but typically British. Best: Billy Hunt Worst: Fly

Nothing but punk rock from start to finish. With a larger budget than their previous releases, they definitely utilised it to it's fullest potential. With string sections, brass sections and of course the mainstay distorted guitars and heavy percussion made the listen quite rich. However, I found the last few songs on the album a little lacking. Best: On a Rope Worst: Salt Future

Meh, that's what this album felt like. It's an ok sounding album overall, but nothing that makes it truly special. To me their sound feels quite generic, perhaps its their heavy influence from other post punk groups such as Joy Division, even going so far as to copy the baseline from The Beatles Taxman and borrowing elements from Michael Jackson's Off the Wall album. Best: Monday Worst: That's Entertainment

With an industrial sound comprising of screeching guitars, angsty lyrics, and the low almost spoken like lyrics allows Sonic Youth to peer into your soul with what is commonly referred to as their Goth record. By sharing the vocalists amongst the band, it gives EVOL a way to break up the record and creates a nice juxtaposition. Best: Bubble Gum Worst: Death to Our Friends

With lyrical themes of hip hop culture and its commodification, with musical elements of rock, jazz, techno, hardcore punk, and soul music, there is a track for almost everyone. At times however the trap of lengthy jazz/soul improvisation kicked in and dragged out the album a little too much for my liking. Best: Thirsty! Worst: Pussy Galore 2.5 Stars

Miriam Makeba's self-titled album was an interesting listen. It was good to hear some 'world music' representation in this list, however similarly to a lot of other albums, it's not one of my favourites. With a sound that is akin to lounge singers or singers that would have performed at a club/dance hall, backed by a large jazz band, back in the 50's and 60s. Best: Where Does It Lead Worst: One More Dance

An overall ok hip-hop album that helped with the revival of East Coast Hip-Hop. The album cover is evocative with it's use of the burning World Trade Centres from only one year prior, with it so fresh in the minds of the public - it might draw you towards the album or you may feel outrage. Best: D. Original Worst: Come Clean - E New Y Radio

An amazing debut from Coldplay. Although through the years there have been countless memes and brush-offs that Coldplay have sold out. However with a wildly successful commercial debut album, how can they have ever been sold out? Parachutes includes absolute classics such as Yellow and Don't Panic - where would we be as a society without these songs? Best: Yellow; Don't Panic Worst: Everything's Not Lost

Bit of a meh album, not sure how it even reached number 17 on the ARIA Charts. The album cover is quite eerie, and could be the cover of a horror movie to be honest. Best: I'm in the Mood Worst: No Substitute

A solid heavy metal album and really highlights why Judas Priest is a real classic in the genre. Never having heard much of their stuff, with this album as their sixth outing, they clearly haven't lost any steam with their face melting guitar riffs, heaving drums no doubt influencing the era of 1980s hair metal bands. Best: Breaking the Law Worst: Red, White & Blue

Suicide starts off like your typical rock album but then it melds into an electro-synth-wave piece that evokes the feeling of going under into a much darker place with the band. Particularly on Frankie Teardrop, with it's storytelling of a father's eventual descent into hell. Best: Johnny Worst: Rocket USA 3.5 Stars

Quite a lo-fi electronica album that almost leans into ambient sound territory. Lots of understated drum beats that permeate throughout the album, whilst unchanging in tempo, acts like a heartbeat for the self-titled debut. Best: Keep the Streets Empty for Me Worst: Seven Note: I only listened to the original track listing

Their voices are quite grating and really not my thing. To me, sounds like hillbilly rock that is the precursor to current bad country music. Captain Beefheart and his Magic Band, more like Captain Vegetableheart and is Lacklustre Band, there is absolutely nothing beefy or magical about this group or album, super whiny and the twang of the guitars coupled with his voice hurt my ears. What's with the album cover - using the fish-eye lens trying to be edgy and cool, only a British band could pull the look off successfully. Best: Autumn's Child Worst: Yellow Brick Road NOTE: Spotify had the CD bonus tracks, I only listened to the original 12 tracks.

I've heard a bit about Elvis Costello, but not much of their stuff - didn't even realise he was in a band. Throughout the album, the theme of political effects on human relationships was quite prominent and not hard to mistake. Their overall sound does sound quite modern for the time it was released, however coupled with the themes the lyrical content feels slightly dated. Best: Oliver's Army Worst: Chemistry Class 2.5 stars

Having heard Every Breath You Take, probably a million times (don't know why people love it tbh) I expected the rest of the album to sound very similar. I was pleasantly surprised, but also mildly confused that this wasn't the case. In spite of all this, The Police did a decent job of melding a number of different styles, tempos and genres throughout. Best: Synchronicity II Worst: Every Breath You Take

Wow its been a while since I've had a truly interesting album come through. The Young Gods with their dark industrial sound symphony like arrangements and the deep guttural voice of their lead singer was like a match made in heaven. Would love to see them live! Best: Crier Les Chiens Worst: Pas Mal

MGMT, what can I say. This album really opened my eyes up to what music could be, at a time where I was basically an "emo kid". The neo-psychedelia/indie production coupled with Andrew's ethereal vocals came at the perfect time and was the perfect album to begin to expand what I thought music was. With their kooky look, and really freaking crazy music videos it was just what my weirdo teen brain needed. Best: Time To Pretend; Electric Feel Worst: 4th Dimensional Transition

Songs of Love and Hate started off well, with beautiful guitars and haunting deep vocals, but then kind of fell off the wagon from there. Which mirrors Cohen's state of mind at the time according to an interview with Throat Culture magazine stating that "absolutely everything was beginning to fall apart around me: my spirit, my intentions, my will. So I went into a deep and long depression." Best: Avalanche Worst: Diamonds In The Mine

R.E.M.'s eighth studio album is nothing to sneeze at, I can see why their appeal has lasted the test of time. Whilst there were some songs that were lacking, the majority were pretty good. Themes of mortality, loss, mourning, and nostalgia dig deep into the melancholy of Stipe's voice. Best: Everybody Hurts Worst: The Sidewinder Sleeps Tonite

An ok funk/soul R&B album that still sounds fresh to my ears today. I've mentioned this before and I'm sure I'll mention it again but there are themes throughout this album that have themes that are unfortunately still relevant particularly about the African American experience in the USA. Best: When Seasons Change Worst: Jesus

Ray of Light is a very different sound to what Madonna became famous for. The electro/techno pop sound was perfectly timed for the late 90s surge of dance clubs and raves. With most of the album it would be at home in a lot of nightclubs. With her newly found spirituality in the Kabbalah religion, coupled with Buddhist and Hindu traditions, she has managed to encapsulate the feeling of these in this album. And all credit to her, she worked to get the correct pronunciations of Sanskrit words for the track Shanti/Ashtangi. If only she was able to shorten some of the track lengths, averaging about 5 mins per song, it did feel like it dragged on a bit. Best: Skin Worst: Little Star

Ready to Die was BIG's first album, and the only one released whilst he was alive. Whilst in some parts it felt a little drawn out, overall there is some stellar quite cinematic storytelling, with easy flows and great beats. Best: Ready To Die Worst: Me and My Bitch Note: Listened on YouTube as Spotify did not have all of the songs

A perfectly nice bossa-nova/jazz album that got me grooving a bit in my seat at work. Whilst not my favourite genre, I can appreciate that in the right setting, would be a great listen. Best: Desafinado Worst: Samba Triste

It's Blitz! is a fantastic album, the Yeah Yeah Yeahs have melded synth-punk with alt pop in a way that just makes sense. It's upbeat tempo coupled with the emotional lyrics let you know that they want you to forget about your loneliness/heartbreak by literally dancing the blues away. Best: Heads Will Roll Worst: Hysteric

A Wizard/A True Star is a decent 70's psych rock/pop album. It feels very experimental in it's composition, with many short sharp pieces, with many of them seamlessly transitioning to the next, along with a couple of much more epically sounding and long tracks. After hearing this album it was no surprise that Todd was experimenting with drugs whilst creating this album. There is nothing that I have heard in more contemporary music that is likened to the late 60s/70s psychedelia rock/pop sound. Best: Sometimes I Don't Know What To Feel Worst: Is It My Name?

The randomness of the daily album is strange, I just listened to Todd's A Wizard/A True Star album the day before this one. However this being a double album- big ouft - I was not looking forward to the slog of such a long listen. This outing by Todd, is much more traditional pop rock and not so much experimental yet each sides of the original records are distinct in their own way with a flow that creates 4 mini albums/EPs. So as an entire album it doesn't feel like I've listened to 1 album, which kept it relatively fresh throughout. Best: I Saw the Light Worst: Marlene

What an album, Slippery When Wet is what I'd call an essential 80s album. Bon Jovi really knocked it out of the park with this one. With all time classic tracks like You Give Love A Bad Name and Livin' On A Prayer, it doesn't get much bigger than these. What was most surprising to learn was that Jon Bon Jovi thought that Livin' On a Prayer was not a great song, guess he ate his words pretty quick. Best: You Give Love A Bad Name; Livin' On A Prayer Worst: Wild In The Streets 3.5 Stars

A lovely album to ease into the day. With his seventh album, the dulcet tones of Ray Charles never disappoints. A big-band sound upfront on the album, coupled with a much more subdued ballad/string second half, shows that Charles can do it all, although personally I enjoyed the big band sound more. Best: Let The Good Times Roll Worst: Am I Blue

Garbage was probably one of the first female led grunge rock bands I was introduced to growing up, and it's always so refreshing to hear a female singer in a grunge band. Their self-titled debut is a solid mix of pop/punk fundamentals, all pulled apart and put back together, finished off with the grittier vocals of Shirley Manson, show that angst with some direction in the right hands is a winning combination. Best: Only Happy When It Rains Worst: Dog New Tricks

A good punchy punk/hardcore album that was great for an energy boost. The punchy vocals of Henry Rollins and rip-snorting guitar riffs made for a wild ride of listening. Throughout it's time many a rebellious teen would love to blast this record, much to the chagrin of their parents. Best: Rise Above; TV Party Worst: Room 13

The album cover looks like decent early 90s computer render of a game scene. Is that mound in the front of the wall a pile of elephant turd? Released on the cusp of the ending of psychedelia and the beginning of country rock, is a perfect bridge for the two genres. Best: Darkness, Darkness Worst: On Sir Francis Drake

Aretha Franklin, one of the original divas with such a powerhouse voice. Who knew that Respect was not even two and a half minutes long?! It was surprising to learn that this album only spent 2 weeks at #1 in the overall Billboard charts, after what we know today as some of her most famous works. However listening to it, it is understandable as there is not really much else on the album that really holds a candle to the two released singles. Best: Respect Worst: Don't Let Me Lose This Dream

With 'Who's Next' best tracks stacked at the end of the album, it is a steady climb through. Being part rock opera, with a combination of hard rock, prog rock, and art rock, as well as its influential use of synthesizers this album was an interesting listen. Best: Behind Blue Eyes Worst: The Song Is Over Note: Spotify had the 1995 Remastered Issue and I only listened to the original 9 tracks.

A great album from Bob Marley and Co. In true Bob Marley fashion, it was a very chill and laid back album epitomised by the Three Little Birds or what I like to refer to it as the "Don't Worry" song. Exodus was completed after his assassination attempt and exiled to England (hence the album name). The overall typically Marley reggae sound is a laid-back production and stoned atmosphere that's simultaneously funky and political. Best: Three Little Birds Worst: Natural Mystic

With his slide guitar and interesting solos, its one of the reasons why Clapton is such a renowned guitarist, it was a really enjoyable listen. This one critic's line sums up the entire album in my opinion "the climate comes out in Clapton's work, ten tracks ranging from bright blues rock to, well, 'Let It Grow'." Best: I Shot The Sherriff Worst: Let It Grow

The outrage that conservatives have over albums like this is hilarious. It's like the outrage that exists today for the mumble rappers and how they're the next devil re-incarnate. At least with metal bands they embraced the "stereotype" and had fun with it - just look at the album cover! Overall it was a fun head-banging album that really does stand the test of time, oh to have been to one of their early gigs would have been incredible! Best: The Number Of The Beast Worst: 22 Acacia Avenue

An interesting album, though I'm not sure if I enjoyed it. Felt Mountain has a very experimental sound that I think, brings out sonically the difficulties in the recording process where Goldfrapp was often alone and disturbed by the mice and insects in the bungalow. Yikes. Generally I don't mind electronica, ambient and trip-hop sounds but the wailing lyrics brought it right down for me. Which is unfortunate, because when there was no wailing, it was really wasn't that bad. Best: Pilots Worst: Deer Stop

The Last Broadcast felt like a warm hug, so familiar and comforting with their Indie rock/neo-psychedelia sound. You really can't beat the sound of the early 2000s Brit rock with an infectious, melancholy and ultimately euphoric barrage of sound wrapped in a sheeting of guitars and subtle effects this was one I wish I had heard earlier. Best: There Goes The Fear Worst: The Sulphur Man 3.5 Stars

Catch A Fire's songs' lyrics deal with political injustice towards blacks and poverty, as is the case in much of Bob Marley's work. Catch a Fire is about the current state of urban poverty" and "Slave Driver" connects the present to past injustices, which are still ongoing themes today for people of colour. Best: Concrete Jungle Worst: Midnight Ravers

Wasn't sure what to expect for this album but it was an ok rap album, really good to have on in the background whilst working. But other than that I probably wouldn't listen to it otherwise. It didn't really sound as old as the it's 1991 release date. Best: Bouge de là Worst: Ragga Jam

A very on the nose album, I can see a LOT of housewives in the 60s rinse this LP on their record players. Imagining themselves as the narrator of these songs and becoming sick of their husbands shenanigans and going off and becoming the wild women they wished they were - all whilst dragging on a cigarette and sipping on a cocktail. Love it for what it is and represents but won't be a part of my regular rotation anytime soon. Best: Don't Come Home A Drinkin' (With Lovin' On Your Mind); I Got Caught Worst: I'm Living In Two Worlds

Third by Portishead is a soundscape album that really experiments with a more electronica and psychedelia rock with heavy synths create a dark cinematic feel with a touch of a bleak art installation. Liked it more than I thought I would and for me it would fit on a playlist to listen to whilst at work. Best: Plastic Worst: Nylon Smile

Judging this album by it's cover is probably a good thing. Being the Netherlandish Proverbs by Pieter Bruegel the Elder, it's definitely an interesting choice, but is actually fitting for the album itself. Being an indie-folk, chamber rock sounding album, fits right in with this middle ages scene. Best: Your Protector Worst: He Doesn't Know Why

Classic RHCP. This is probably their first foray into what I would deem their signature sound. With classic tracks like Suck My Kiss, Under the Bridge and Give It Away, Blood Sugar Sex Magik is quintessential RCHP listening. Best: Give It Away; Under The Bridge Worst: They're Red Hot 3.5 Stars

This is terrible. Country rock music is not my thing. Coupled with that kind of yodelling/singing that country is kinda known for. Big yuk. My heart is not on fire, my ears are! Best: Ooh Las Vegas Worst: Hearts On Fire

Whilst sounding quite heavy, it's overall rockabilly sound was something unexpected. It felt very "underground" in composition and very garage rock band. Overall, not too great but something that I wouldn't mind hearing again if it was on. Best: I Was A Teenage Werewolf Worst: The Mad Daddy

Another great prog rock album from Yes. Whilst I don't generally like long tracks, the way that Yes is able to piece together these tracks allows for some really good flow throughout. Best: Close To The Edge Worst: Siberian Khatru