Music is ok....but the lyrics SO INCEDIBLY LAME! I defy anyone to listen to and hear the lyrics to "love me like a reptile " and not roll their eyes. How can anyone intelligent person absorb a Joy Division lyrics and not laugh out loud at the drivel that Lemmy spews. I understand how musical taste is always subjective, but.... 2 ๐
From the opening burbling bass of Safe From Harm, I was hooked. What a song. What an album. Genre defining. I love Mezzanine which is a more consistent album but the high points of Blue Lines are enough to carry the album to a 5 ๐rating
This wS a pretty underwhelming listen. Decent straight ahead rock and roll with a punk edge. Not sure why it should be on this list. I feel that the list should be reserved for albums that are either outstanding or influential and I don't think this either. 2.5 ๐
Not my cup of tea. The beats can be interesting but just not anything I would listen to
Another beautiful Morrissey album. One I have sadly neglected, I always seem to listen to Viva Hate or a Smiths when I need a shot of Morrissey's wry humour, deprication and stinging commentary. But Your Arsenal is worthy of attention too. 4 stars
Great album one The Stones best. 5 stars as far as I'm concerned but I'm a fan. Favorite songs... Sympathy for the Devil No Expectations Jigsaw Puzzle (love this song) Street Fighting Man Prodigal Son 5-star album
Fine album. Not my cup of tea musically but no denying the quality...and that voice...buttery smooth.
Its a good album but overly long as it seems to repeat itself the longer it goes. The high lights are very high... Tonight tonight is a great song. Ultimately I had difficulty digesting it all in one sitting
Too relentlessly "rockin'" for my tastes. I'm not an Aerosmith fan, but I do have respect for their earlier material. But of their early album I think this is my least favorite. 3 ๐
Wow! Brilliant Brilliant stuff. I am not a rap fan. I own one rap album; "It takes a nation of millions..." which Ilisten to every couple of years and try to enjoy, beyond "Don't Believe the Hype". But this is Brilliant. The rhyms and the effortless delivery left me stunned. I will listen to this album in the coming weeks to try to cull as much as I can from it and then move on the The Slim Shady LP which I understand is just as brillliant. Discoveries like this is why I love listening to music and why I am part of this program. My first 5 ๐ album for one that I had never heard previously
Great songs...dated 80s production. Did I mention Great songs!
I like this album . Been a while since I listened to it. Real nice to re-discover it. 4 ๐
I love Lou but this one is not my favorite. It has its moments but the arrangements and production are so farcfrombthe velvets as to be almost unrecognizable. Ii does have its moments but just a 3 for me .
Two songs to this never heard before album or artist; I LOVE his jazzy voice and arrangements. Great, percussive guitar playing. Really enjoying this first listen.
Not my cup of tea. The beats can be interesting but just not anything I would listen to
I was surprised how much I enjoyed this album at least the first half. I like most when the band goes soft loud there's not enough of that to keep me interested for more than a few songs. The heavy-handed politics are also a bit grating over the long haul. I would give it 2.5bstars if half stars were allowed but for this exercise...2 stars
A very fine album muscular with memorable melodies. I like it a lot.
Definitely some indie-pop gems on this album. I will definitely return to it to see if there are some that slipped by on first listen. For now 3.25 but could go higher on subsequent listens
Enjoying the album. Admittedly nothing on it comes close to the first three songs but the whole album is quite listenable 3 stars
Great songs. I'm not usually one for orchestrated arrangements in pop music but I can overlook it because of how great the songs are. 4 stars
Come on man.... One of the greatest debuts of all time. How can this be anything but 5 ๐
For whatever reason I never connected with Billie Holiday's voice and the arrangements on this set leaves me bored. 2 ๐
Well this was a nostalgic ride. I had never listened to the album on a good system until now. This was one of the first albums I loved as a 12 year old. Just like then I had to listen to Hide in your shell twice. What a song. Allmusic.com had it right...4 ๐
A fine album...very listenable. The hits are great but the album cuts are strong as well. 4 ๐
Not a bad album. In fact I was surprised how much I liked it. I will listen again. Pretty close to a 4 but ots a little too long so I'll give it a 3 ๐
Wow this is just a GREAT dance album, worthy of many more listens. A very good discovery. 4 stars ๐
I like Eels, favourite ablum is Daisies of the Galaxies, but I also like Souljacker, Electro-Shock Blues and Hombre Lobo. Not sure why I never listened to this one before but it<s another fine Eels album.
This is a very enjoyable listen. New to me but sounds fresh and interesting. Melodic and rhythmic. I will definitely return to this album 4 ๐
Wow this is a really good album. I'm familiar with the title track, Cross Eyed Mary and Locomotive Breath but I thought the whole album was really good. 4 ๐
4th favorite Dylan album which still is a no-brainer 5 star choice. Even if the 2nd side is quite a bit weaker than side 1...that side 1; WOW
Well that was fun. That show must have been hott! Good album I will listen again soon. 3 ๐
This is a FUN listen. Nothing as immediately ear catching as Losing my Edge or Daft Punk ... at my House. But this is going into heavy rotation. 4 stars
First song...meh. the three that follow are quite strong. Always good to hear Peter Hook's familiar sound. I'm trying to get over the fact that they are NOT Joy Division. Their style not one I listen to a lot. Still as I near the end I find myself really enjoying this album. Tempted to give it a 4, but a string 3 ๐ is what I'm giving.
Music is ok....but the lyrics SO INCEDIBLY LAME! I defy anyone to listen to and hear the lyrics to "love me like a reptile " and not roll their eyes. How can anyone intelligent person absorb a Joy Division lyrics and not laugh out loud at the drivel that Lemmy spews. I understand how musical taste is always subjective, but.... 2 ๐
An OKs favorite of mine. Brilliant album..Winston Rodney's singing is incredible especially on Days of Slavery Not sure what else there is to say . 5 ๐
Of course I'm very familiar with the song American Pie. I was never a big fan. I must say that listening to it on a goodcsystem give me a slightly greater appreciation. I was prepared to dislike this album but it wasn't the case. Enjoyed it more than expected. Reminded at times of Al Stewart. 3 ๐
I've heard of the band but never heard any of their music. I believe Sundance re-issued a number of their albums. I loved this album. Beautiful expressive vocals; simple, timeless arrangements. Reminds of the first time I heard Love Forever Changes...no it's not quite as good as that, but damn close. Favorites: Painter of Women The Keeper of Time Nine Pound Hammer Magic Hollow The Wolf of Velvet Fortune 4 ๐
Not familiar with Robert except by name. Even Soft Machine, his band I am familiar with by name and reputation only. Album has 6 long songs, or are they movements or suites. I'll take them one bu one. 1st song; did not like it closer to free jazz than rock, not my cup of tea. 2nd song a little more modal in nature, enjoyed this one more. 3rd song, reminds me a little bit of Miles Davis in a Silent Way. Like this one still more. Closer to a rock sound but still more jazz than anything (not that there's anything wrong with that) 4th song; just kinda weird ...annoying organ sounds, jazzy guitar weird percussive, metronomic breathing sounds and fragile singing add up to a strange listening experience 5th song; more weirdness...a continuation of the previous song. I do like the percussion and the sax in this one. Actually much better than the previous song and perhaps my 2nd favorite so far 6th song; and the last one more of the same anti rock & roll. Just not music for my tastes 1 ๐
A damn fine album that I've enjoyed since it was released. Love the picture disc vinyl too. Lots of great songs here, Maps being the hilight. And Wendy O's voice...gorgeous. a strong 3 ๐ album knocking on the door of 4.
Not sure I understand the hype on this one. Pretty generic sounding bar band. I guess this came out around '65, sure doesn't sound innovative or forward looking. Sorry not drinking the Kool aid on this one. 1 ๐
Not really much to say about this album. One if the most important albums in my life. Incredible sounds, incredible poetry, incredible production, incredible mood. In my top 10 favorite albums ever. 5 ๐
From the opening burbling bass of Safe From Harm, I was hooked. What a song. What an album. Genre defining. I love Mezzanine which is a more consistent album but the high points of Blue Lines are enough to carry the album to a 5 ๐rating
Surprisingly enjoyable great beats the electronic sounding vocals is my main complaint 3 ๐
An old favorite of mine. I love the golden age of Cat Steven's and this is his very best. 5 stars
Well seven songs in and the non hits are really quite BAD (sorry for the pun). The Man in the Mirror is also a good rung or two below the hits from Thriller and Off the Wall. Besides the title track and "The Way You Make me Feel" there's just not much else of interest... 2.5 ๐
Surprised that I enjoyed this album. Metal is not normally my favorite but Anthrax seems to add a punk sensibility to there metal ethos. The guitar histrionics are kept to short bursts and the songs have a punk attitude. 3 ๐
Not really much of a blues guy. But on occasion I can enjoy and appreciate the genre. But not this time. Nothing bad here just nothing that gets me excited. 2.5 ๐
An omdcfavorite of mine. This is a very good album. I would have chosen List Souls, personally. Though not as consistent as The Last Broadcast, TLB lacks the greatness that Lost Souls has in spots. Still a fine album.... 4 ๐
Innovative...sure, but no real musical enjoyment for me 2 stars
Jockeys with Revolver as my favorite Beatles album. What more is there to say.... 5 stars
I know just a few of their songs. Enjoying this quite a bit. Has an XTC feel, with a big Beatles influence. Songwriting is strong. Feels like 3.5 even a 3.75 ๐
Ok I'm not a fan, but the first two songs are great! The next song is great too, but at 5:10 way too long. These boys should know any song longer than 3:30 is just too long. But I'm going to have to concede 4 stars to these hard-drinking, hard-rocking nut boys. What saves it for me is the guitar histrionics rarely descend to wankery and the riffs are impressively HARD and accessible. Closer to sex pistols than to Van Halen... I had no idea. 4 ๐
Never heard this before. From the opening bass line of LA femme d'argent I knew this was a sound tailor made for me. Gorgeous melodies, dancey rhythms and that bass, just lovely. It slows a bit in the middle section that keeps it from a 5 for me, but a strong 4 ๐
I have tried and tried with this album. This time on headphones while in a walk. A little more appreciation this time but still the magic escapes me. Maybe the melodies like the vocals are buried too deep for me to find. When you Sleep is the highlight. I'm getting there and this time I WANT to listen again. 3.5 ๐
Really enjoyed listening to this excellent album. I am familiar with Adamson's work only through his band Magazine, which did not prepare me at all for the music on this album. Full of funky rhythms, jazzy flourishes and a huge sound. Check out the Big Bamboozle for Ellington style big band jazz. 4 ๐
What a great album this is....way too long since I listened to it. Just one beautiful song after another. Elliott's voice is so gentle and inviting. Love this album 4 stars
Solid, trippy psychedelic sounds from the 60s. I will listen again. I liked it 3.5 stars
Lots of stylistic variation. A mostly quiet, subdued album. Many of the songs fall flat for me. Perhaps Bono's most overwrought album lyrically. All in all nothing I loved, 1 song I disliked strongly. 3 ๐
Very entertaining , fun, funny album. The music is not as compelling for me as Fun Lovin' Criminals, but still really good and enjoyable, just as a general commentary....Rap / hiphop albums tend to be TOO LONG!!! Please, please, please being back the 40 minute album. 3.75 ๐
top 10 album for me. My favorite Clash album even more so than London Calling. One classic song after another. I have both the British version as well as the American version I slightly prefer the US version for its inclusion of Complete Control and Clash City Rockers, though the sequencing is better on the British version because of the sequencing. But these are quibles, either versioin is a 5 star album in my books
Not my cup of tea. I might give it another to see if I'm missing something. As it is its 2 ๐ well see if in time that goes up
Just not the kind of music that draws me in. I promised myself I would listen to it the whole way through but did not alter my opinion from where it was before I listened. Though I will say that i like the title track. 2.5 ๐
I like this album. Burn it Down is uch a GREAT song. Kevin's voice used to perfection. The follow-up Tell Me When my Light Turns Green is just as strong. For me this album is soooo much better than Too Rye Aye. 3.5 stars
Sufjan Srevens has many gifts. His voice is beautiful even otherworldly. He has a gift for writing simple, beautiful melodies and his talent for complex and beautiful arrangements is undeniable. He certainly has a talent for stupid song titles. There is a lot to like about this album; it's certainly ambitious and is filled with some excellent songs of varying styles; John Wayne Gacy, Jr., Chicago, Casimir Pulaski Day, The Man of Metropolis Steals our Hearts, They Are Night Zombies..., The Talkest Man, The Broadest Shoulders . Does it's reach exceed its grasp? Perhaps. Could it be 10 or 15 minutes shorter? Absolutely! Is it a satisfying, rewarding listening experience? Yes it is. 3.75 ๐ that I think will go higher with more listens, something which I look forward to. I think I'll buy the vinyl
This was a good album. Very chill and relaxed. It would make for nice dinner music, as a matter of fact of added It to my dinner party mix. A solid 3.5 ๐
In high school Pink Floyd was my favourite band. And this is my favourite album from them. I have moved on from my high school tastes but this album is still great. 5 stars
I'm not a country music guy but I liked this quite a bit. I can see how it was a breakthrough for traditional country music to a mainstream, non-traditional audience. And the musicianship is amazing. 4 ๐
A really interesting album one I like. I am a HUGE fan of the Jam, at least through Sound Affects. This was not at all what I expected. I would never have recognized even Paul's voice had I not known it was him. Nothing like The Jam, not even like The Style Council. Sounds more like a Van Morrison album. But I did like it and I'll listen more while lamenting the loss of one of my favourite bands. I'm going to give it 4 ๐
Not sure I understand why this is THE Tangerine Dream album. I can't find anything resembling melody, I prefer Cyclone and Stratosphere 2.5 ๐
By far my favorite early rock and Roll artist. The first singer/songwriter and a huge influence on the British invasion bands and beyond. Buddy Holly was the most forward thinking and innovative of all his contemporaries. 5 huge ๐
For me and my appreciation of Elvis its all about the material...are the SONGS to my liking, because the performance and delivery all always spot on. On this album he lets his blues side OUT! Some big blues numbers here that are great performances and the material is pretty good. Fever is another high point one of the best versions of that song I've ever heard. 3.75 stars
I don't listen to much "pop" music, full albums almost never. This is the best pop music album I have heard in a long time. So varied in musical genres and always interesting. It plays like a concept album but with changes of mood and style that keep it interesting. Changes of style are nothing if the music isn't interesting and this album held my interest throughout. I was shocked at how the album flew by so quickly. I am tempted to give it a 5, but 4.5 is all I can muster. A discovery! 4.5 stars
A very fine album see my other review for details
The first two songs are pop music classics and pretty darn good songs. The rest of the album seems mostly like filler to me. Promise to try is a heart felt ballad that is a cut above the rest as is Oh Father, Keep it Together is a nice slice of George Clinton style funk., but it's not enough to raise the album above being a pretty average pop/dance album. 3.5 ๐
The blues ate not my thing. This album does have more going for it than your typical blues guitar album. It's got the feel of a jazz album the piano seems as important as the guitar. But every instrument takes a back seat to Muddy Waters vocal performance. I may well have fou d my favorite blues album. 4.5 ๐
Aptly titled . A fun listen with catchy hooks, humor and danceability. 3.5
Wow these boys can sing. And some really great tracks too. Who's that Lady. Love there version of the Dooby Brothers Listen to the Music and Seaks and Crofts Aummer Breeze, never had so much soul. A fine fun album 3.75 ๐
This is a highly regarded Dylan that I never really warmed to. Maybe it's the languid pace of the songs, or maybe the swampy bluesy feel that was never my thing. Maybe its the foggy atmospheric Daniel Langlois production or the old mam world-weary voice that keeps me at arms length. In any case a Dylan album that is near the bottom of the list for this Dylan fan. 2.5 ๐
Enjoyed it. Not as good as their debut but a good listen more varied in style 3.5 ๐
The memories that this album evokes are palpable. I believe this is the first album I ever owned, the first one that I played on my own Lloyd's stereo system that I got for my 11th birthday, some 49 years ago. That original album is long gone but the memories are still here and very real. This is the album that started my life long love of music. It might be 40 years since I listened to it front to back but listening to it today the memories came flooding back. Favorite songs; Heart of Gold, Needle and the Damage Done, A Man Needs a Maid, Alabama....especially Alabama, and Words. This one's a no brainer...5 stars
I really like this album. It rocks hard in places, is very spacey and psychedlic too a la Spacemen 3...but better than Spacemen 3. Also has a Mercury Rev vibe in spots. But as usual its the solid songs that make this a very satisfying listen. 4 stars
A fun fun album that I had never listened to completely before. Groove is in the heart is great but there are a number of tracks worthy of praise as well. I'm going 4 stars
Totally. It my thing. But it has a few songs that seem like they've become standards. 3.5 stars
Another beautiful Morrissey album. One I have sadly neglected, I always seem to listen to Viva Hate or a Smiths when I need a shot of Morrissey's wry humour, deprication and stinging commentary. But Your Arsenal is worthy of attention too. 4 stars
I find this album and music borderline offensive. Not my thing AT ALL.
This is a really nice album for Ryan Adams. Not sure why he isn't a bigger star. Very in the mold of singer/songwriter style of the 70s. He has lost some of his alt-country sound on this one and gone for a more straight ahead rock/pop sound. It does lack some of the soul of Heartbreaker, but still a strong set of songs...4 stars
I<m not a big RHCP fan, this is the first album I listen to from front to back. But it has quite a few high quality moments. My favorite moments are the poppier ones I find their Funk freak outs a little distracting though the skill of the playing is undeniable. Lots of good stuff. Not quite a four but surprisingly close. 3.75 stars
Not my genre....obviously; however I was suprised at how much I enjoyed this album. The hits are uniformly very good, though I do wish the arrangements were just a little more edgy but that would be besides the point I suppose. Anyway a solid 3.5 for what it is and the sing-along factor.
A shockingly good album 5 or 6 absolute classic Monkees songs 4 stars
Really good listen. I find it more accessible than Millions, but with no song as immediately bracing as Don't Forget the Hype. I don't know how to judge good hip hop vs.not so good. UT I know what I like and I like this album 4 stars
Probably my favorite THeads album. The opening song; Thank you for Sending me an Angel is in my personal top 5 TH songs and Take me to the River may be my favorite cover song ever. Besides those two high points the album is consistent from beginning to end. Thanks TH for sending us this album 4.5 ๐
I love this album. So sensual...so sexy. Never really heard anything else quite like it. A near 5, but 4.5 ๐ seems more accurate.
Very interesting album. Hip hop is the genre that has continued to surprise with consistently fine albums. 3.5 ๐
Great guitar work on the album opener. Followed by a great acoustic rocker that reminds me of Aztec Camera. We're off to a great start. Next couple or three lean a little to far to the pop side of the spectrum for my tastes, but the songs are good. And the rest of the album continues in this vein. Good songwriting but the style of music and production keeps me at arms length. 3.5 ๐ in recognition of the songcraft.
A Stine called classic and highly influential album. Introduced jazz lovers in North America to bossa nova. What more is there to say. 5 ๐
I'm not a fan of west coast but damn I liked this album. It's loud and abrasive and offensive at times but the band has a kick ass rhythm section and there are enough tempo changes and possibly even some melodies to keep me interested. Though lacking in Wire's ear for hooks and pop song melodies, GI has enough surprising turns to make me think this is the Punk Flag of west coast hardcore. I'm tempted to give it 4 stars, but 3.5 ๐ is where it belongs
The first song is great, jazzy, sophisticated sounding. Great first impression; expecting good things. Nest song a little funkier, more soulful...very nice. A couple more songs inn super smooth, organic...Trip Hop the way Trip Hop should be. Me likey. It does get a little long...a little samey for active listening , becomes more of a background listening experience but a really really good background listening experience. Put this on at a dinner party and I think you have the perfect backdrop. 4 stars
I was surprised how much I enjoyed this album Marvin Gaye is sooo freaking talented. He could sing the phone book make it compelling. More Marvin please. 4 ๐
This was a very nice album. Very much of a Ryan Adams vibe for a lot of the songs. Great singer too with a bit more of a raspy voice than Adams. I wish some of the percussion was more natural, less electronic sounding. 3.75 stars
Pretty good album. Some metal flourishes I could do without, but there's no denying Eddie Vedder's talents as a singer. Impressive vocals. I thought I didn't "know" Pearl Jam but I was shocked how many songs I was familiar with and impressed by; Black was the most impressive song for me and I also ery much liked Release. This almost felt like greatest hits album. 4 ๐
This is a fine album from a favorite of mine. Favorite songs ...A Place For Us, with some striking rhythm guitar work and a stellar pj vocal performance. The haunting It's the Best Thing. The muscular guitar chords of The Whore's Hustle and the Hustler's Whore. The beautiful duet with Thom Yorke on This Mess We're In and my favorite song the absolutely gorgeous You Said Something with a melody that will haunt you for days. Kamikaze sounds like it could have been straight from the Rid of Me sessions, and the closer We Float is as beautiful a ballad as Polly has ever penned. A solid 4 ๐ album for me.
Surprisingly enjoyable listen with good songs and infectious rhythms. Her singing is frankly nondescript for me and given this genre perhaps below par but the songs are what's important to me. 3.5 ๐
Well this was fun. Very entertaining. All kinds of styles and a kitchen sink of sounds but always delivered with a wink and a smile. Much the same as when I first heard, Histoire de Melody Nelson thus us one that will get multiple listens. 4 ๐
Non descript inoffensive and ultimately unremarkable hard Rock. 2.5 ๐
Yeah not bad as far as electronic music goes. 3 ๐
This is a really good album frankly I don't know why I slept on it for so long. It's right in my 80s alternative wheelhouse. Starts out with a huge bang with the opener Dominion / Mother Russia. After the slow-burn of Flood I, Lucrative My Reflection picks up the pace with a driving bass that just won't quite. And this Corrosion presents itself as the centrepiece of a fine album. 4 ๐
A kitchen sink of styles and sounds many of them compelling. I don't know how to describe the album but I know that I like a lot of it. 3.5 ๐
This is adult contemporary pop music at its best. Beautiful songs and a beautiful voice 4.5 ๐
What a gorgeous album. Some of the best electronic music I've ever heard. The dance tracks are intoxicating and the slower tracks sumptuous and gorgeous. My only complaint...it's 15 minutes too long. 4.5 ๐
I like the album I don't love it and I have little urge to seek it out when I want a dose of hip hop. 3 ๐
This is a very good album, the song selection is near perfact for Rod's gravely voice. I vacilate between this album and his debut as to which is my favorite. 4.5 stars
Wow nice album and a good discovery I think I'm going to spend some discovering this bands catalogue. The album has a lot of familiar influences. A little punky, a little grungy, some shoegazzy elements and a little Britton too. A solid 4 ๐
It's a good album a bit all over the place, uneven. Unique interesting and it has psycho killer one of the graeat songs of the past 40 years. 4.5 ๐
I'm not a metal guy but I didn't hate this album Has some punk elements. Very heavy in the tradition of Black Sabbath which is a good thing. I actually liked most of the songs. 3.5 ๐
I like it. I find it curious that I have the greatest hits compilation and none of these songs made it to that compilation. I also have the self titled album so I'm pretty familiar with Blur and I like them. And this album helps me like them more. Every song is good, they have a way with a melody and they sound so British which I love. 4 ๐
Sometimes my favorite MD album, always reveals new and interesting elements with each new listen. Until yesterday Bitch's Brew was new to me but not new to me because In a Silent Way is an old favorite cloth. Bitches Brew might be more ambitious and more varied but I still prefer In a Silent Way for its more consistent mood and its the beautiful atmosphere it creates in each song. No brainer; 5 stars
What a fantastic album this is. My favorite from this Madchwster scene. So melodic and soulful. One great song after another and my vinyl copy doesn't even have Fools Gold. 5 ๐
Pretty generic hard rock.not sure what the fuss is about on this 2 ๐
A relentlessly HEAVY album. Emotional. Unrelenting. Uncompromising. Maybe too much for a single sitting but it's raw emotion. In that way it reminds me of Joy Division' Closer. Unfortunately I don't find the music nearly as compelling, so the most I can give it is 3.5 stars
An amazing album. Just a notch below The Big Three, but a very small notch. 4.5 ๐
A strong Kias album that builds on their reputation as hard rock kings. Adds the wrinkle of a beautiful and highly successful balad in Beth. 3.5 ๐
Apparently I had to hear this album once before I die, so I did. That was plenty...1 ๐
Wow this was a really fun listen I can't wait to delve deeper. Super smooth vocals and luscious beats. 4 ๐
Not a bad albu, starts out with some fine songs. Love their take on Stepping Stone. It gets a little silly at the end finishing with two songs about cars that are both pretty lame. All-in-all a fun listen. 3.5 stars
Was once my favorite Stranglers album but it hasn't aged well. Still love Sometimes, Hanging Around and Get a Grip on Yourself, but the rest sounds dated and old. A 3.5 stars
If this album had nothing but the title track it would be legendary. Speaking of which Funkadrlic would seem to be the most unlikely of sources for one of rocks great guitar epics, but there you have it. And the rest of the album while nothing like the title track is still worthy of many many listens. Easily 5 ๐
A very fine debut album. Songs are good, though not quite of the caliber of morning glory. I am annoyed of their "influences" coming dangerously close to blatant rip off. Keeps it from a full blown 4 so I'm giving 3.75 ๐
What an album. Perhaps the most influential album of the rock era. After this nothing would be quite the same. All thus would be hyperbole if the songs weren't so fucking good. Some of the hardest most uncompromising rock music ever committed to tape. It's a masterpiece. 5 ๐
you know what prog and rap have in common their ร bums are TOO LONG. still this one has a special place in my heart. Genesis and me in high school were going steady for s while. This album is among ny favorites of this period. 4 โญ๏ธ
A classic that I came to late, 10 years ago, perhaps. It's a very good album and the guitar interplay between Verlaine and Richard Lloyd is often gorgeous and always engaging. I was tempted to give it an automatic 5 stars for it's reputation and they fact that I mostly think it's brilliant, but...... Tom Verlaine's voice keeps it from reaching the highest score. Now I can usually look past a unflattering vocal performance if the songs transcend the subjectively week vocals and I mostly do, but ultimately I can't quite get to 5. 4 .5 ๐
Post rock? Is that what this is? It's got some interesting music on it. Some of which grabs my attention, some of which keeps me un interested but none of it offends me. I actually like listening to this album especially late at night. 3.5 stars
Sade-style jazz-pop smoothness. More electro than Sade, a nice hybrid between Massive Attack trip hop and the smooth Jazz described above. The vocals are gorgeous, but the whole package strikes me as a little soul-less. Could this be the ideal dinner music album? Quite possibly. 3 stars
Again not a genre I am very familiar with,but I generally enjoyed this album. It has a nice funky side that drew me in. The rhythm section is strong and pushes the music forward. Songs of note.... The Warmth is a cool song with a warm, subtle beat perhaps my favorite on the album Make Yourself also good Drive is also good and the first that I recognize. This was a hit. Battlestar Scralatchtika..a nice funky instrumental tune. An enjoyable listen with at least 4 songs that were noteworthy 3.5 ๐
Only listened to this song once or twice before this time. It really is a fantastic set of songs. Varied in style and production Nilsson's absolute shines throughout. 4.5 stars
Lots of interesting stuff here. Lots of different styles in play. As usual way too long so I can't say that it held my interest through to the end but enough interesting moments to make it a worthwhile listen 3.5 ๐
Well this is a weird album. Dance music...politically themed...bizarre covers of Springsteen and Dionne Warwick classics. One big time hit. Too long and indulgent to rate more than 3 ๐
Yes a great album. Fun. Skillfully played. Non pretentious. Relentlessly groovy. There's just not a single misstep. Totally cool album. 5 stars
A classic album...but not my favourite. Concrete Jungle and Stir it Up are stone cold classics and the other songs are not far behind. You can't go wrong rolling up a fat one and putting this great album on the turntable. 4.5 stars
Weird perhaps even stupid name but damn, I Like this album. It rocks...it has soul and it's mostly electronic. I enjoyed most every song. I really enjoyed the album and I will delve deeper into their catalogue. 4 stars
A classic from the singer/songwriter era. Some would say it is THE singer/songwriter album. The first time I've listened to the album from front to back but of course I am already intimately familiar with at least 6 or even 8 songs on this 12 song album...that's pretty amazing in itself. The triumvirate of the first three songs...I feel The Earth Move, So Far Away and It's Too Late is incredible. Then the middle (side 2?) has You've Got A Friend, Where You Lead and Will You Love Me Tomorrow. And then we end with the gorgeous title track (which I was not familiar with) and then the epic; (....) A Natural Woman. It really is quite remarkable the number of songs this song has contributed to popular music...standards in the true sense of the word. Bravo Carole! 5 stars
Good Times is a great song, a classic! But is it enough to raise this album to Must listen status? The 2nd song...A Warm Summer Night is a boring, formulaic sounding balad that just lies there for me. 3rd song My Feet Keep Dancing; Meh! Too long, not a great hook. I won't bore with a song by song analysis. I will say that Will You Cry (When You Hear This Song) is a very good song breaking forom the disco formula very successfully. All in all a good album from the era with one absolutely classic tune. 3.75 stars
I might be the one of the last people to be unfamiliar with Kanye West's music. This album surprised me. I was not epecting the depth and poignance of the lyrics. He is really talented in his use of language and rhymes. The music definitely is in service to Kanye's words and that's OK. The music did not grab me on first listen. The production is spare and unconventional to me but I think with more listens would come greater appreciation. 4 stars
In my opinion ythe best White Stripes album. Great song after great song. Dead Leaves...is an epic song and what follows is Jack White's best songs in his career. The songwriting is so spot on , the arrangements clean and punchy. 5 stars
What an album. This is where Siouxsie's punk roots, meld with their gothic stylings and pop sensibilities in a perfect mixture. As always Budgies drumming is captivating and powerful and John McGeogh's stabbing guitars are perfect. And Siouxsie's singing is absolutely sublime. This might be their strongest set of songs, just really hard to find a dud on the album. Arabian Nights, Spellbound, Into the Light ... side one is near perfect. I have always thought Keleidescope was their best album but Juju is right there and on many days it is my favourite. A great album from one of the great post punk bands. 4.5 stars
One of Bob Marley's best. Exodus is an incredible powerful song. I'm lucky I have a pristine Mobile Fidelity vinyl copy of this record and it sounds incredible. Deep powerful bass and excellent balance overall. Thanks for the reminder on how great this album is. Side one starts out great and just keeps getting better until it gets to Exodus. Side 2 might be even better - it has the better known songs; Jamming, Waiting In vain, Three Little Birds, One Love. 5 stars
This is a fine album. Beautiful vocals, gorgeous, harmonies, first rate songs and and tight playing. Not sure who's decision to have the stereo mix as vocals hard right, instruments hard left but I do hate it. Is there a mono mix available for this album? If so I would love to hear it. That's the one thing that keeps this from a straight up 5 star album...4,75 stars
Some good songs here. But it doesn't rise to the level of some classic albums of the era. 3.5 ๐
Classic album that I haven't listened to in a long time. Long overdue re-familiarizing myself with this album no fewer than 5 or 6 absolutely brilliant songs that sound as fresh as ever. Though still not my favourite Springsteen album, that distinction goes to Darkness On The Edge of Town with it's harder edge, still a no-brainer 5 star pick
Pretty good synth/dance/80s/pop album. Especially of note the hit with Dusty Springfield...What Have I Done to Deserve This. Not sure what more I can add. If this is your style of music you won<t go wrong. 3 stars
Dire Straits are good. Lots of interesting stylistic shifts. Even some latin flavour on a song or two. Mark Knopfler is one of the smoothest most tasteful guitarists to ever massage a fret board. And he's an excellent songwriter. Very nice album that deserves more attention than I paid it. 4 stars
liked this album . I already have four or five Tom Petty albums but never heard his first until today. 4 ๐
Well I really enjoyed this Arabic language tour through world music. Wonderful percussion sounds and interesting and varied instrumentation. really loved its mix of western style rhythm and ethnic sounds. 4 ๐
A stunning debut album by at the time teenager Fiona Apple. The album is a bit all over the place but every once in a while like on Sleep to Dream, Criminal, Carrion and especially Shadowboxer she hits the sweet spot and the results are pure magic. A talented pianist and vocalist, this debut points to the musical riches to come. 4 ๐
Nearly perfect blend of Smiths style rock and roll and there knack for beautiful melodies and poignant t ballads. Has some of The Smiths best songs. I loved this album when it was released and still do today. 5 ๐
wow. ...what a tour de force. I had no Idea. The hip hop albums on this list have been, in general, the real slap in the face discovery for me. And this one may be the best so far and there have been great one's. In particular the Eminem album knocked me on its ass for its incredible wordplay and compelling music. To Pimp a Butterfly while not as shocking as The MM album, but my God the intricacies of the wordplay...of the poetry, is stunning in places and at the very least compelling and interesting and intelligent. This one's a KEEPER and is deserving of multiple listens 5 stars
If anyone can explain The Beastie Boys to me I would be most appreciative. They are a rab group right? How come their lyrics are barely intelligible? How come 9 songs in an instrumental is my favorite song so far. Fight for your Right to Party? Really? Make that my two favorite songs are instrumentals...Eugene's Lament is excellent. But all in all just not buying what The Beadyie Boys are selling, even if I could figure out what that is. 2.5 ๐
An amazing album, one of Neil Young's best. Its sad and poignant and powerful, The title track is the highlight of course but there are other great songs too. 5 stars
Has a rock /pop group ever put a better collection of songs on one record? Highway 61, maybe. Rubber Soul, perhaps. One great song after another. A remarkable achievement really 5 ๐
This album shocked me, I wasn't prepared for this level of melodicism from a Bad Brains album. The Bad Brains I know are loud and abrasive, without subtlety. I am glad to find this side of this legendary band. 4 stars
I am a HUGE EC fan, but I never would have thought that this album would make the list. Don't get me wrong this is a great album, underrated and perhaps forgotten in is catalogue. I lost touch with Elvis after this album, for whatever reason I had no need for anymore EC...for me this album was the perfect farewell. I actually like almost every song and it might be his greatest vocal performance up to this point. 4.5 stars
Pretty good album that I do not find as compelling as the majority of critics do. Can't put my finger on what keeps me at arms length, I'll just say that I didn't connect with this the way I hoped I would 3.25 stars
A fine album with one great song and some other very good songs. Patti's poetry is evident throughout; raw, poignant, provocative. And it Rawks. 4 ๐
I can't really complain about this album it's a fine album. Am I a fan? No. But that doesn't change the fact that the guy makes some fun adult contemporary pop albums. For me he's a poor man's Randy Newman. Anyway a pleasant uneventful listen...3.5 stars
I enjoyed this album especially when acoustic guitar was the principal instrument. She has a lovely powerful voice 3 ๐
I like this album, not my favorite hip hop I've been introduced through this process, but very good. The rhythm is a bit same throughout with very little tempo change. I like a lot of the sample choices especially of course Walk on the Wild Side. 3 75 ๐
Well this is a lot of fun. No grand artistic statement here just a bunch of talented musicians showing off their substantial chops on some old favourites. Nothing wrong with that. 3.5 stars
A dark, challenging, sometimes even disturbing album that haunts you long after it ends. It maybe the most haunting listening experience since Kid A, or perhaps even Joy Division's Closer. Ultimately it proves rewarding and bears repeated listens to come to appreciate it's substantial charms. Substantial is an excellent to describe the experience of listening to this album. 4 stars.
A very good Americana album. I was surprised how many acoustic guitars on the album. I enjoyed most of the songs, the first and last being hilights 4 ๐
One of my favorite Beatles albums, if only Yellow Submarine had remained on the cutting room floor might be a 6 ๐
A dark, moody album with gorgeous textures and beautiful melodies. I have listened to it twice through so far and I intend to do so again before finalizing my impressions, the first listen, a background distracted listen didn't yield much except fot a few moments of creepy (my daughters word) unease. Second listen in which my attention was undivided, allowed me to appreciate the subtle melodies and lush soundscapes. So far a beautiful album that bears further scrutiny. Well listen three did not go as planned. This album is one of mood andut with little substance. No memorable SONGS! While the music is sometimes beautiful it is nowhere near enough to sustain a full album. 3 ๐
What a voice. Bjork is a revelation and the music and songs are great too. 3.75 ๐
Very much enjoyed going album beautiful mood, gorgeous voice, warm lush instrumentation very inviting perfect for dark late night listening 4 ๐
My favorite purely electronic album has a beautiful sense of melody that modern bands like Aphex Twin lack as do contemporaries like Tangerine Dream. Smoke a joint, turn the lights low and be transported to wherever you let the music take you. 4.5 ๐
Not really my kind of music but this record does have its moments; 3.5 stars
4 stars a very fun listen lots of stylistic changes. Deserves more attention
Well it's a GREAT album and has some of favorite Stones song, which means some of my favorite songs period. Sweet Virginia, Tumbling Dice, Happy, Rocks Off, Ventilator Blues. Having said that it doesn't hold my attention the whole way through which keeps it just shy of a full 5 star rating 4.5
This album is sooo strong. The Go-Betweens mase such gorgeous music. Tasteful, tuneful, bright. Music you just want to sing along with. The best album from a band that released nothing but great albums. An easy 5 ๐ rating
When Doves Cry and Purple Rain are great songs the rest of the album is good but nowhere near as strong, of note is some of the incredible singing in songs like The Beautiful Ones. Also some incredible guitar playing, beautiful tone, always tasteful yet impressively heavy. Took two listens through to gain appreciation. 4 ๐
A quietly beautiful album. Sparse arrangements that showcase her fragile vocal delivery and subtle, distinctive phrasing. Reminds of Cat Power, but lacks the emotional depth and power in her voice. Finally, the pacing of the album is too slow without any variation thus lacking in drama and ultimate tension 3.5 ๐
It has some great songs, particularly Groovin', Sueno, You Better Run and A Place in the Sun. But it's pretty syrupy...that's the first and the lasting impression, some good songs but an overall lightweight feel 3 ๐
Really? 2 hours of monotonous beats, strange slightly musical noises? A breakthrough? A masterpiece? I don't get it. Do I have to listen to all of this? How about we pass a law that albums like this be no longer than 45 minutes. Not totally bereft of value. But I have no desire to ever listen to it ever again. 2 stars
Ok well Edie Van Halen is a very talented guitarist and David Lee Roth a charismatic front man, but unfortunately stylistically with their guitar wizardry and rock star wailing I am left cold. All style no substance. Not surprisingly the best sing for me by far is Ain"t Talkin' 'Bout Love, where both of these indulgences are reigned in. 2.5 ๐
Never heard of this guy before. First impression; some nice Matthew Sweet style power pop. First 5 songs are catchy and hooky and well executed. The finish of the album more of the same. Worthy of further exploration for sure. 3.5 ๐
This was a big surprise. I basically liked every song. Always believed that they were a White Stripes wanna be band, without having listened to their music. They deserve more of my attention. 4 ๐
I actually liked this MUCH better than I thought I would. My pre-judgements coming in...too long, stupid premise, hokey songs. The premis still strikes me as stupid but the songs are so strong - what a drummer Keith Moon was - that I did not feel the album was bloated at all. very little filler and some truly transcendent musical moments. 4.5 stars
The middle album of what I like to think of EC's Big 3. Great song after great song. The run from Senior Services through Goon Squad is absolute song writing gold. It bogs down slightly after that with the next three songs which aren't quite as strong, but we finish with a bang with Chemistry Class, Two Little Hitlers and the Nick Lowe penned; Peace Love and Understanding (though that last one is not included on my British pressing). A great album easily worthy of a 5 star rating.
Pretty good hip hop album, too long as usual but some interesting musical choices and there were some very interesting rhyms. However a little to samey to earn anything higher than a 3.5 ๐
I'm sure this is a seminal country album. And there's no denying his beautiful voice and story telling talents....but it's just not a genre that I enjoy listening to. 2.5 stars
I expected to like this more given the reputation which preceeded it. It was more country one style than expected. Illegal Smile is Admittedly a pretty cooland humorous tune as is the next one Spanish Pipedream. Pretty Good might be my favorite song. All in all I enjoyed it 3.5 stRs
3 ๐. Really tough for a heavy metal album to score above a 3 for me. This has elements that I like. The drumming is excellent but the songs are all basically the same formula and the vocals are technically good but the style is off putting for me. So it's a good heavy metal album but not an album I'll ever want to give a 2nd listen to
A wonderful album. Very much in the style of Miles Davis Prestige years; Cooking, Working, etc.... I really enjoyed this album and plan to listen to it tomorrow again. 4 ๐
A very cool album. Reminds me of Canadian band Tea Party. I like these guys much more than their grunge brethren like Soundgarden and bands of that ilk. Their sound is more nuanced and the vocals smoother and more inviting. I'll be enjoying this album quite a lot in the coming weeks 4 ๐
Such a strange and mysterious album. Ethereal sounds that seem be from some alien beings. Strange and otherworldly and yet accessible and familiar. Now how do they do that. Now how exactly do they pull that off. Well Beth Orton's magnificent voice definitely helps in that regard. A wonderful album who's best moments / songs never fail to draw me in; 4 ๐
Like the title suggests this a dark plodding album that is still quite fulfilling ecause of Cohen's incredible lyrical sense and dramatic delivery. The music matches the lyrical themes perfectly. I found something to enjoy in most every song. Thouvh in the end s little monotonous t ate higher than 3.5๐
Halfway through and this album is NOT working for me at all. Just not something I can latch on to at all. Nope not really ๐ 2 ๐
A very good almost great album but not my favorite LZ. Ranks behind 1, 2 and 3 ... on a par with IV and HotH. I admire the varied influences but for me the songs are not that strong. Even the much beloved Kashmir, while a very good song barely cracks my top 10 LZ songs. 4 ๐
Matt Johnsin hit a home run with This is the Day, a perfect slice of 80s alternative pop. It has all the elements; Great dance floor beat, catchy sing along chorus, beautiful melodic synthesizer riff and a huge drum sound. Just a great song that to me still sounds fresh today. Can the rest of the album possibly measure? Well the short answer is no! But.... There are some fine tunes on here; Uncertain Smile, the title Track as well as the closer Giant. Most of the tunes go on too long and I find myself looking to skip ahead to the next one 3/4 of the way through. But I can say that each song has something to offer. Johnson's themes of life and death, heaven and hell and biblical references can get a little heavy handed but the arrangements tend to lighten the mood and help make the whole thing more accessible. 4 ๐
Ok so it's a pretty good selection of covers like I can't stNd the rain and let's stay together, however they do show the limitations of her vocal range, but that doesn't bother me at all un fact I find it endearing...you always recognize a Tina Turner performance. And when Tina rocks, like in better be good to me, she takes a backseat to no one; man or woman.4 ๐
Another fine hip hop / rap album. Ice Cube's sense of humor definitely shines through at times but always the underpinings of anger are present laid bare for all to see. The beats are not the most inventive but I was always drawn in and wanted to listen, so....accessible. 4 ๐
What an album...one great tune after another and refreshingly different from anything else at the time. My vinyl copy is an early British pressing and doesn't even include their most famous song Oh Bondage Up Yours, but amazingly Germ Free Adolescents does not suffer for its absence. 4.5 ๐
Not my favourite CCR album bit a good CCR album is a great album for .out other bands. Born on the Bayou, Bootleg, Proud Mary, Chooglin; all classic CCR. Not quote 5 but 4.5 easily
Not a rap fan but I enjoyed this a lot 4 stars. A little heavy...relentless even but worth the effort 4 stars
Well I had a hard time finding the "original version of yhis album. TIDAL does not have it except as a bizarre compilation album that bears little resemblance to the original release. Searching individual tracks I put together a Playlist in the same order as the original release, but thar did not seem fair. So YouTube to the rescue. On to my review. I was only familiar with this band from my vinyl copy of Organization from oh so long ago. That album never connected with me other than Enola Gay. With this album I think OMD reached another level. More variesd and dramatic than Organization. Highlights are The New Stone Age, which rocks like no other OMD song I've ever heard, Sealand is achingly beautiful in it's sparseness and huge dramatic drum sound and Souvenir is synth pop at its finest. I think this album is stronger than Organization. I'm going to revisit Org as perhaps I gave it short shrift back in the day. 3.5๐
Ever heard this album before. I'm very familiar with their first three albums which are classic in their own rights. The Notorious yrd Brothers has a different sound, a jazzier sound that works very well. I enjoyed each and every song. Can't quite give it a five bit I'm tempted. 4.25 ๐
A beautiful intimate performance. Sympathetic accompaniment, tasteful playing and a great batch of songs. Sarah's voice is impeccable, rhe arrangements are perfect and her delivery; relaxed inimate and rhythmicly they swing. Don't often understand the rhyme or reason behind some of the non-rock choices but for this one I'm grateful that I was able to discover this amazing album 5 ๐
I am not a Queen fan! I generally pretentious and overwrought. I had Queen II earlier and it did nothing to dispell my pre conceptions. Now this is their best known album and I do confess to a certain fi ding a certain charm to Behemian Rhapsody, probably more to do with its ubiquitous presence in modern popular culture. I guess it wore me down. I'm also anxious to hear I'm in Love With My Car after Mine Myers performance in the movie. It's a nice song. I also didn't realize that You're My Best Friend is also on this album...I like its straight ahead pop song aesthetic, but these guys can't help themselves even on a "pop" song ad the drums and bass are overwrought instead of being simple and in service of a beautiful melody. The next song '39 has a charming folk feel but again is done in by an over produced and somewhat weak chorus. Still I like the song. For the rest of the album it goes from songs that are over produced an over wrought to parody songs (Seaside Rendezvous). Overall it's a better album than Queen II but still filled with Queen's portentious theatricality (The Prophet's Son, Love of my Life.... Yech!) 2.5 stars
This album has the reputation as one of the best live albums ever released and with good reason. The setlist is stellar, the performance is clean and tight. The chemistry within the band members and with the audience and band is easy going and comfortable and the whole package has a Magic that is rarely captured on tape. Loses 1/2 star because I'm not generally a fan of luve rock recordings. 4.5 ๐
Personally I prefer Rocket to Russia. But there's a certain timelessness to this debut. Most of the songs are GREAT! Blitzkrieg Bop, I Wanna be Your Boyfriend, Chain Saw, Now I Wanna Sniff Some Glue, I Don't Wanna G to The Basement, there's just no let up. The Ramones were the cause of a musical revolution...and the revolution starts here 5 stars
A very bizarre album. Not at all what I expected. The arrangements are generally spare and unusual with a lot ambience and echo and strange noises that seem to come out of nowhere. The backing vocals on the opener Gris-Gris Gumbo Ya Ya are angelic and distant really gorgeous. There are lots of different styles here most of which I can't identify. My first run through the album I was ready to give it a low rating...but my second spin is giving a much more positive perspective. I can't quite say that I live every song but man each song has something at least interesting to offer and deserves closer inspection. 4 ๐
I really like the groove this album cultivates. Smooth, jazzy, bass lines that are lyrical as fuck. Definitely one of the better rap / hip hop albums I've heard so far. Aside from the groove the raps seem interesting and intelligent, at least at first blush. Bears further investigation to get the full feel of this very good album 4.25 ๐
One of the best Stones albums and perhaps my favourite and that's saying a lot. Not a bad song on here but, other than sister Morphine, it does lack a killer track like Let it Bleed and Exile, And Beggars Banquet have. But for consistency Sticky Fingers is tough to beat. The loise bluesy feel throughout the album makes it accessible and gun. 5 ๐
I love the Specials self titled debut. It's a great album. This album is not. The songs sound as much like novelty songs as serious music. Maybe it would I.prove with further listens however nothing in this initial listen is sufficiently interesting to warrant a deeper dive.....accept Stereotype/Stereotype Pt. 2. Can't give it more than 2.5 stars
This is not an easy album to love. The melodies are not standard pop fare, they are complex and the hooks are while their are present but require repeated listens to make their way into your brain. This is not Sgt. Pepper, with its easily hummable melodies and easy hooks. It's a great album but it requires time before it's greatness is revealed. It did at least for me. 5 ๐
One of my favorite Bowie albums. The title track is among his best songs and the rest of the songs are quite strong as well. 5 ๐
Interesting songs unique sound. Absolutely a substantial album that were it more in my wheelhouse could be 4stars, but as it just isn't my genre I can't imagine e fou g higher than 3.5 stars.
Some nice versions of pop Christmas classics all with that distinctive Phil Specttor touch. Your Christmas celebration will be richer if this album is added to your holiday playlist
Some lovely English folk music. If a little generic sounding. Nothing really stands out to me (unlike Shoot Out The Lights). Maybe more listens would bring a higher rating but for now 3.5 ๐
Is this a typical Taylor Swift record? If so, what the hell have I been waiting for. Subtle, beautiful, nuanced and heart-felt. This is an album where the songs are the stars, not the singer. For me that's refreshing. The songs are great I would just ask for a little more variety in tempo and musical arrangements (read wish it rocked harder in places). 4 ๐
Nearly perfect. Nick's hardest rocking album but still poignant and lyrical and beautiful. 5 ๐
Not a bad album. You can definitely hear the Martin Hannett production / influence . Is this the direction that Joy Division would have taken had Ian Curtis not died? It's a sound that I naturally gravitate to but the songs lack a certain distinctive quality that keeps them from being me.orale indicates ideally. 3 5 ๐
I'm a Smiths / Morrissey fan but this album. So ehow escaped my orbit. There are some absolutely gorgeous so gs on this album. As usual his band is spot on...they sound amazing the rockers like Billy Budd; ROCK! The more subtle songs like the beautiful I am Hated For Loving and Lifeguard Sleeping, Girl Drowning are arranged with beautiful tasteful touches. The album is lovely from beginning g to end. Highly recommended. 4 ๐
A good album of jazz inspired blues-pop the singing is distinctive and unusual in a pop music framework but what keeps me at arms length is that the arrangements don't grab me and I find the melodies difficult and unappealing. 3.5 ๐
An interesting album, doesn't really sound doesn't like anything else I can think of. Does their style appeal to me? No not really but I can hear the quality in the songwriting and the playing, just not a style that appeals to me.
Already my third Kinks album in this exercise. I love this album. Ray gives us such wonderful little vignettes with colourful characters and places. Many memorable songs. Love it. 5 stars
This album played a role in my pre adolescent burgeoning live for music. My older sister had their greatest hits album and I played it over and over again. Came to There's a Riot Going On much later and again every song is excellent. Not exactly overflowing with hits still the feel of the album makes it a classic. 4.5 ๐
Well this was a fun album. Folk music as it was meant to be presented, simple, unencumbered, great stories told simply and succinctly. I enjoyed this album very much. 4 ๐
Sinatra at his absolute peak. This along with Sings for Only the Lonely are ssns pareil. 5 ๐
John Cale's quiet, beautiful album. It is perhaps his most accessible album but for me lacks the magic of the other three albums of his that I am familiar with; Fear, Vintage Violence and Slow Dazzle. Admittedly I came to this album later than those others and maybe it hasn't had the time to make its way deeper into my soul but on the other hand it hasn't made me curious enough to allow it to. 3.5 ๐
Astral awesome is the gold standard of Van Morrison albums but make no mistake that Moondance is a fabulous album. It has touches of Astral Weeks jazzy feel but is much more pop music accessible. Ultimately it lacks the wow factor of AW. Still an easy 5 ๐ rating from me.
This wS a pretty underwhelming listen. Decent straight ahead rock and roll with a punk edge. Not sure why it should be on this list. I feel that the list should be reserved for albums that are either outstanding or influential and I don't think this either. 2.5 ๐
It's a quality blue-eyed soul album. Reminds me at times of Safe. It's very smooth and polished. It's just not a style that I really enjoy so despite the quality that the band exhibits I can't give it more than 3.5 stars
A new discovery for me and one that I really enjoyed. You can hear the growth that reached it's zenith with Pet Sounds, but this one has a similar feel and dare I say may be a little more accessible. 4 stars
A pretty good album,not up to the standard of the best from Eminem, A Trube Called Quest or Kanye but NY State of mind and Life's a Bitch, Halftime are great. 3.75 stars
For me this is Tom Waits the way I like to hear him, jazzy arrangements that sometimes swing and sometimes torch (what's the verb for torch?). I love the banter between songs and to start and end the album. The album is closest in style to my favorite TW album; Small Change...which has my favourite song...Step Right Up. An easy 4.5 ๐ for me.
The Hives do this sound about as well as anyone. Infectious garage punk that grabs hold and doesn't let go. Not sure about the wisdom of including what is basically a compilation album here when their regular releases repeat a number of the songs here but there's no doubting the quality of the songs included. Great stuff but loses one star because of redundancy 3 ๐
I guess if I lived inside a club I'd have this going and all would be right. But I live in a house and there's not many opportunities to enjoy this type of music. Still a very good album for what it is. 3 ๐
I'm not much of a blues rock guy, I don't usually Gosford guitar virtuosity nor for extended jams. But despite thar I found myself enjoying this album. In memory of Elizabeth Reed is especially good and seems shorter than its 13 minutes. However, Whipping Post, at 23 minutes is just too much still has some beautiful parts to it though; 4 ๐
Most definitely not my thing. Might be more tolerable if the vocals were a little less....aggressive? I think there were 2 songs that I could possibly enjoy in another context, but in this context 2.5 ๐
I've never heard this iconic album until today. I have heard, own and love In A Silent Way. Bitches Brew is very much cut from the same cloth. The atmosphere, the feel, the playing is so similar to In a Silent Way that it sounds like they were both taken from the same studio sessions. Do I like it as much? not yet. Will I? maybe. I'm tempted to give it 5 stars which is how I will rate IASW, but it's too new in my listening life so 4.5 ๐
After being introduced to The Marshall Mathers LP through this exercise. I was prepared to be similarly blown away by this album. I wasn't. Still a great album, funny sometimes even hilarious, some excellent production but not up to the standards of Marshall Mathers, it is missing the emotional depth of that album as well as the almost frightening honesty. Still a hell of an album 4 ๐
This is the album where it all came together folk with gospel with blues and it ROCKS! The title track, Mandolin Wind and Maggie May ensure its all time classic status, but the choice of covers are all spot on especially I Know I'm Losing You. 5 ๐
What an absolutely gorgeous album. I'm only discovering Can now...in the last year it so and every listen reveals something new (to me). I'm always surprised at how soulful the music. 4.5 ๐
My favorite Jam album and one of my favorite albums, period! The 3 album run of All Mod Cons, Setting Sons and Sound Affects, is as good a three album run of any band, ever. This is the album where The Jam sound and Paul Weller's song writing reached their zenith. To Be Someone, Mr. Clean, In The Crowd, "A"Bomb in Wardour Street and Down in the Tube Station at Midnight are all incredible songs that alone would make this album worthwhile, all together they make for one of the best albums of the 80s, indeed of any decade. No band ever communicated more vividly what it was like growing up British. Maybe that kept North American fans at arms length, but for me if their lyrics and themes ever became TOO British, the musical interplay is universal and these three kids were the epitome of tight. A no-brainer 5 star album from my perspective.
This album is a revelation. First some background I'm 60 years old and Hendrix was the music of my older siblings...at least Are You Experienced was, and I love that album. But I never heard anything else, other than Smash Hits and Band of Gypsys. Recently I've listened to Electric Ladyland but I haven't been able to connect with it. My conclusion; Hendrix is not for me. Today was the first time I ever listened to Axis Bold as Love and I love it. I think it's a stronger album than Are You Experienced. Where AYE has some filler in my opinion, while every song on ABL is substantial. The songwriting is very strong and shows off more variety...jazzy and funkier than AYE and Electric Ladyland it seems that the production is cleaner and you can here more interplay between the instruments. A 5 ๐ album without a doubt.
Not a bad album I'm not a big Arctic Monkey's fan but I did enjoy listening to this album, but nothing makes me want to listen to it again. 3 ๐
This is what to me is the classic Byrds album Belongs in every music lovers collection. Ringing guitars, beautiful harmonies, rich production overall and the songs....wow. The Dylan covers like the title track, Chimes of Freedom and All I Really Want To Do are beautifully rendered and the originals; I'll Feel a Whole Lit Better and Here Without You show a maturity ro their writing that would develop even more on later albums.. favourite track; The Bells of Rhymney. 5 ๐ (note my copy is a Sundazed Vinyl pressing that includes two very good bonus tracks so that's what I'm commenting on and rating.)
Some really cool tunes here. Great storytelling interesting sounds/beats. I enjoyed my listen not sure if I want or need any further listening though. 3 ๐
I liked this album a lot. Good country style rock. Reminds me of The Dead more than anything, but I would so shorter on jams and perhaps a little more rocking. 4 ๐
Not my favourite rap...I prefer something lighter with more of a jazzy esthetic. Still some quality stuff here. 3.5 ๐
Wow this album starts off really strongly Movin 'em Up. Great funky bass and drums propel the song...a really great start. Then we get bogged down in some long drawn out dance floor jams, especially; Don't Fight it Feel It, which about 4 minutes I'm hoping for an end, unfortunately that end comes only 3 minutes later. The next song Higher Than The Sun is more of the same. Inner Flight is better but then things really start cooking with Come Together and the album finishes strongly. I'm going to listen again, so it did make me WANT to see if I'm missing something in the songs I didn't like but what I did like I liked enough to almost give it a 4. 3.75 ๐
I love this period of Bowie....the Berlin period. And Low is generally regarded as the masterpiece from the Berlin period. But I actually prefer both Station to Station and Heroes. I acknowledge that Low is the more unconventional and atmospheric of the three, but I find myself wondering what the point of songs like; Art Decade and Weeping Wall. Having said that Low is one of the greatest post-punk / New wave albums of all time. Considering that it was released in 1976 three years before post-punk was invented that's something. 4 5 ๐
I was ready to give this album 5 stars. I thought like Rumours that it's mega sales meant that its quality was beyond the regular pop fare. But it turns out there are some really shifty songs on here. I listened to Thriller and after being mostly unimpressed decided to listen to Off the Wall. Off the Wall is a much better album. Thriller gets 3.5 ๐
This is a fine album. Nice easy to like songs with jazzy arrangements. Perfect background music for a dinner party with friends. 3 ๐
The first two songs are good, song 3 Barmy is great, with a a weird rhythm guitarcdriving the song. The songs of the fall are all kind of weird and quirky...kind of a post-punk / new wave Captain Beefheart. Mark E. Smith's through a megaphone style vocals are certainly an acquired taste. Not much conventional song structure here, just Smith ranting over strange rhythms. But I like it, though a full album can get daunting. 3.5 ๐
Well this was an interesting sojourn into the world acid-jazz-rap francaise. I speak some French so I could understand alot of the lyrical contente and for those who don't speak French, let me say you're not missing much. MC Solaar does not have a lot to say. Having said that I really enjoyed this album. Whether or not you understand what he's rapping about, one can easily appreciate the flow of the phrasing and especially the perfect marriage of that slow sensual lyrical flow and the sultry jazzy flourishes. The music and the singer in perfect synch, make this a satisfying listen. 3.5 ๐
Music is pretty good if a little hard for my tastes. The raw guttural screaming that passes for singing is just not to my taste. I have to admit that musically there's some pretty impressive playing. 2.5
Some good old fashion greasy lues-rock in the style of classic Rolling Stones. Nothing particularly memorable to me but a lot of fun. 3.5 ๐
I love this album. Side 1 is by far the best moment of The Waterboys career. From the epic opening track to the dissonant fiddle that dominates We Will Not Be Lovers, to the beautiful accoustic turn of Strange Boat, the start of this album is as good as it gets. The band then rocks out with danceable World Party and closes side one with a gorgeous take on the Van Morrison classic Sweet Thing. Unfortunately side 2 pales in comparison (how could it not?) With the only standout track being And a Bang on the Ear. The underwhelming second half keeps this from being a 5 ๐ classic. 4.5 ๐
One of the top 3 stones albums along with Sticky Fingers and Beggars Banquet. Just not a bad song on here. I suppose one could argue that Country Honk is filler but that won't be me an easy 5 stars.
Pop vocal is just not my wheel house, so I sm most certainly NOT the one to judge this albums artistic merit. For me this album sounds generic in its pop vocal performance. Her voice is sublime there is no doubt but you better bring more to the table than a pretty voice to catch my ear. First off ballad after ballad makes for a boring listen for me. When she does open up a little like on Send My Love...it sounds like rip off of the Lorde hit from 2 years earlier. I'm not an Adele officialdom but I've never heard anything that comes any where near Rolling in the Deep. As I type Sweetest Devotion comes on and it's easily the best song on the album. Makes the album climb from a 2.5 stars to 3 ๐.
Damn Tge Saints are GOOD. Can't believe I missed them back in the day. I would say they are the most faithful to The Stooges of any band I've heard from that era. 4 ๐
So I have tried to get into The MSP at other times and have found them too bombastic, too Queen-like (I hate Queen), self-indgent, etc.. And this album started out giving me a similar impression. But halfway through, specifically with the song; The Girl Who Wanted to be God, my opinion started to turn and U actually liked every song right to the end of the album. The songs seemed to get simpler, more direct, less overblown and just plain better. 3.5 ๐
The best thing about this exercise is the great hip hop albums I've been introduced to. ICE Ts album Power was the first rap album I ever purchased back 35ish years ago. This album is wonderful. Intelligent, compelling, musically diverse and just fucking good. 4.5๐
Really nice album. I tend to prefer the instrumental tracks where the vibraphone playing can really shine. But all the songs have a life and a real feeling of momentum that makes the irresistible. The tempos are infectious, the percussion irresistible. Just great music playing throughout. 4.5 ๐
What a fantastic album, captures the spirit and feel of classic 60s British pop (is it Mersybeat) better than any British pop album I can think of. It manages to sound both fresh and nostalgic at the same time. And every song is a winner. Of course the omnipresent There She Gies is the hilight, the song everyone knows but no one knows who sings it. I love this album for its sound, its gorgeous and utterly tasteful production but mostly for its fantastic songs. 5 ๐
I like this album...I like it a lot. To me this is to be lumped in with Arctic Monkees, The Good the Bad and the Queen, the Libertines / Babyshambles and maybe even British Sea Power and The Legends. For me this is the best of the bunch (except for BSP, The Decline of British Sea Power is an incredible album). More consistent in its accessibility than the more lauded Arctic Monkeys, Franz Ferdinand has very few missteps and when it hits it's target its a bullseye. A very enjoyable listen. 4 ๐
For me the 50s is like this; There's Buddy Holly and then there's everyone else. To me Buddy Holly is the seed from which grew all the music that is important to me. Now after hearing this Lityle Richard album there's Buddy Holly up here, then there's little Richard a notch or two below ....and thennn, there's everyone else. Good songs and one of the most chameleon like voices I've ever heard. 4.5 ๐
My favorite album from one of my all time favorite bands. Ian McCulloch has never been in better voice. The lyrics are beautifully obtuse but fun and provoking and at times achingly beautiful. Will Sargeants guitar is tasteful and never overdone, alwaysserving the song. And there are so many great songs; Silver, Seven Seas, Thorn of Crowns, Yo Yo Man, Ocean Rain, Kingdom and of course The Killing Moon. A 5 ๐ album if I've ever heard one.
Sonic Youth's most famous album and quite possibly their best. Teenage Riot is probably their best song but this album is full of classic SY songs. It's not quite a 5 star album for me as SY has some dissonant characteristics thatvI personally find difficult. 4 5 ๐
Not really for me...electronic heavy metal with lead vocals that I dislike. 1.5 ๐
Excellent album. Fuga,I might have the best rhythm section in American Punk, (Minutemen?). And they are on full display on this fabulous album. Yes, sometimes the vocals can become jarring...grating, but really only on a couple of songs. In general the songs are really really good. Highly recommended. 4 ๐
This is one of those albums on this list that makes me think ..."Really?..., I have to hear THIS album ". Sounds like some generic smooth jazz ... the kind that Starbucks used to sell, the kind that give jazz a bad name. 2 ๐
A very good album. Pop...punk...indie...grunge...shoelace a little bit of everything I this one, including some excellent songs. Reminds me of The Darling Buds album; Erotica, which would be a 5 star album for me but does make this list. Anyway this one's a 4 ๐
It's got some great songs; the title track and Jealous Guy are classics and there are a couple of other great songs (How do You Sleep, Oh My Love), but it also has some filler that keeps it from being a 5 in my opinion. 4.5 ๐
This one kind of stunned me. I was not expecting so many quality songs. Us there a genre Solomon can't do and make his own. He does a country song that is note perfect. I had to spin this one twice to begin to appreciate his incredible range. 4.5 ๐
It's got some good songs but just one hit....Help Me Rhonda. Not their best but still has some good songs worthy of attention. 3.5 ๐
I was prepared to dismiss this album as aelf-indulgent over-rared shifted, but it's not. ( ok maybe We're Going Wrong is that, but...). Most of the deep cuts are pretty damn good; World of Pain, Dance The Night Away and Blue Condition which has an almost indie-rock feel are three fine songs that make up the middle section. All the songs are short so they don't wear out their welcome. I really enjoyed this albu, much more than I thought I would. 4.5 ๐
Wow. The first 3 songs are sooo good. Clever, catchy and they rock like he'll. Can't help but drop off from there but it's not like it comes to a screeching halt there's plenty of other great songs to help carry us to the end. Kathleen Hanna is an American treasure. 4.5 ๐
Another overplayed classic that I never listened, aside from the hits. This is a fine live album that I think captures the energy of a live concert. I especially liked the intense mid-tempo scorcher; Need Your Love. That song starts off a particularly strong 4 song run that winds up with that high school dance mainstay; Surrender. The album does fall prey to some mid 70s live album cliches, ie not one but two needless (thankfully short), drum solos. Despite that a pleasurable listen; 3.5 ๐
A very cool album. O e that I missed back in the day but I'm happy to discover it at this late date. It does get a little avant garde here and there but it ne er loses its pop song way. 3.75 ๐
Bit of a meh for me on this one. Nothing really grabbed in a general way on this. Most songs inoffensive a couple rise above that descriptor. 2.5 ๐
Love Sly and the Family Stone. They were my introduction to funk music so hold a special place in my heart. While this album isn't as strong as There's A Riot Going On, it actually has more hits. Its a great album that should be a part of any library that includes American funk as part of it. 4.5 ๐
It's pretty good but I do prefer my synthesizers when they are serving up some melody and some traditional song structures. Though the sounds from this album are gorgeous in spots, the music doesn't connect 2.5 stars
A much stronger album than I thought. There's four or five really first-rate songs on the two biggies plus fascination, win and Right. 4 ๐
There might be some good songs here but sheeesh they're hard to find under the bright, overwrought production. Like Brian Wilson on steroids, the studio effects just keep coming with little relief in sight. Somewhere under all the orchestral flourishes and choral singers and unnecessary sound effect is some good old fashioned rock songs....I guess. I wish someone had said to him; "Jeff, why don't you take a break?" 2.5 ๐
This is a very strong album. Most of the songs are packed with beautiful stick-in-your-head melodies and are well produced and tastefully arranged. Coldplay have a penchant for grandiose sounding songs that make them sound like they would be at home in the arena rock venues and this album definitely have them sounding like the heir apparent to the U2 throne. An impressive sophomore effort from a band that clearly has superstardom in its sights. 4.5 ๐
A fine album with one GREAT song; All the Way From Memphis and a bunch of really good ones. 3.5 ๐
A fantastic album. Along with rap, country has been my eye opening genre that I will likely explore as a result of this exercise. Each song is a small cinematic snippet replete with shady characters, beautiful vistas and plot twists. All the songs are great but the standouts for me ; Big Iron (gorgeous rhythm guitar), El Paso and The Masters call. I loved this album 5 ๐ (bonus; the songs chose by Tidal after the album was finished more great storytelling songs that enhanced my listening experience)
Quite simply a masterpiece. Each song is a cinematic journey that delivers in every way possible. I used to think that The Bends is a better album, but that simply isn't true. It might be a more exciting listen, but can't equal the drama and quality of songwriting on OK Computer. 5 ๐
Wow. Best Marley band ever. Did not think I'd write that but the songs are all sooo good...all of them. With the exception of the closing song which is still more than listenable. Marley's best, need I say more?
A pretty good album that sounds kind of derivative. The melodies are generally pretty and memorable. The arrangements a little pedestrian and the vocals are generally beautifully rendered in the same vein as Thom Yorke but without the depth. I found myself often reminded of Andrew Bird. A little too one-trick to rise above a rating of mediocre. 3 ๐
Really cool album. Lots of styles, lots of interesting studio trickery but nothing overwrought, always in service to the song and the songs are great. Great melodies, interesting lyrics and the rhythms are tight and driving. I lje his vocals toond sounds like John Cale at times. 4 ๐
What a fantastic album. Incredibly tough and uncompromising. PJ'S absolutely drips with anger and attitude and ultimately strength and determination. Her emotional range is matched by her vocal range which never hits a wrong note. And the dynamics on this record are incredible, especially on Man Size and of course The title track which absolutely explodes when the full band kicks in. This album is not an easy listen, but once it gets its hooks in you it's impossible to set yourself free. 5 ๐
The title track basically created the rap genre for old white guys like me. The rest of the album left me cold as I waited impatiently to hear those famous words; "don't push me cuz I'm close to the edge, I'm trying not to lose my head", sung in that staccato rhythm. 4 ๐ just for that amazing song.
Kind of a bizarre al um that I am just now beginning to appreciate . Dissonant chord progressions, strange, otherworldly vocals, great drumming and cool reggae-esque rhythms that were quite unique at the time. The songs continue to grow on me with repeat listens. 3.5 ๐ with a bullet
Funky little album this is. Some really great danceable rhythms. My wife really liked this album. I liked most of it but did get annoyed at times by the syrupy tone of the sax which fell I to Kenny G territory from time to time. A fun listen that probably doesn't have any real staying power. 3 ๐
I was not expecting much, I was not expecting to like this album, but the funky groove that threads itself through most of it and the soulful almost Tricky-like vocals won me over. And the songs which often lean towards bombast are pretty good too. In that way the remind a little of Nine Inch Nails. I bet their damn good live. Finish things off with a pretty inspired version of War Pigs and what we have here is a 4 ๐ album.
My second Tim Buckley album, an artist I was unfamiliar with. Greetings from LA was a more rocking album, this one more English folk based, which is more what I expected from Buckley. I really liked Greetings and this one has its own charms. Quieter and more acoustic in nature I hear some Steeleye Span and Fairport Convention influences especially in the epic title track. Lots of great songs that I enjoyed tremendously. 4 ๐
An interesting album that doesn't hide it's love for classic popular song writing of Rogers and Hart and Gershwin. No denying the lyrics are witty and the production lush and dramatic. An impressive nostalgic document. However it's all just a little too precious to keep me interested. At times I take not of the cleverness and a really lovely melody will wander by once in a while, but just not often enough to make me want to listen again. 3.5 ๐
Great atmosphere. Not a big blues guitar fan The band cooks I like the way the music doesn't stop even between songs. The banter between songs can get a little tiresome His singing on Worry Worry is amazing. You Done Lost Your Good Thing Now...might be my favourite. A good listen just not something I would return to 3.75 stars (out of 5)
I've tried really hard to get I to Nothing Shocking. I own it on vinyl but whenever I play it there's something that keeps me disengaged. The vocals are difficult the spreading guitar solos are not my style. I appreciate some of the songs but as an album it leaves me cold. Ritual De Lo Habitual has the same elements, but I find there's a higher degree of variety in the production and the songwriting. I like it better for that which also gives me hope for Nothing Shocking. I especially like the longer songs in the second half which really allow the band to stretch out. A very good album 4 ๐
A step below Sufer Rosa and Doolittle but still a really good album. No immediately catchy songs that stay in your head even after a first listen...you know like Here Comes Your Man or where is my Mind, but there are songs that reward multiple listens. Like Velouria, Is She Weird, The Happening. All in all an excellent album for Pixies fans; 4 ๐
So when I saw this album come up as my listen for today, my initial reaction was "oh no, not another electro-dance album". From what I've gleaned from the previous albums I've heard (been assigned?), these albums tend to be pretty samey and way too long. Well this one is better than most I've heard of the genre. It's still much too long. I got through the 6th song and was thinking this is pretty good, actually, then I see that of 3 of the 4 remaining songs, the shortest is 9:26, with one of them clocking in at over 15 minutes. Well the last part of the album was as good as the early part. In general terms; interesting beats, not too monotonous and overall an enjoyable listen. 3.5 ๐ (extra points because Tidal chose as the next random song after the last had played something called "Water From A Vine Leaf" by someone called William Or it, which was quite excellent).
It's hard for me to adequately convey the impact this album had on me when it came out. I was about 18 or 19 when I first heard this album. I was just coming out if my prog rock high school days and was ready for a new sound that got my ass moving as well as my mind. I had never heard anything like this before. A rhythm section that demanded attention...that grabbed hold and would simply not let go. Stabbing guitar that was more color and mood than lead instrument. And the singing...real English accents that I found so damn charming. This album and Wire's first three were at the centre of a musical epiphany for me that 40 years later continues to shape my musical tastes. 5 ๐ (I'd give it 6 if I could)
I like jazz but not a big fan of fusion. This album has moments where rhe groove gets pretty intense, but for me thecsoloing intrudes on the song and serves no useful purpose except to show the musicianship and speed with which each player plays. 3 ๐
This us where The Who went from British Invasion stars to Arena-Rock mega stars. I like The Who but somehow never before listened to Who's Next from beginning to end. It went as I expected. It's a great album that will never usurp My Generation, Quadrophenia and The Who Sell Out as the Band's best. Too overplayed for that to ever happen. Favourite songs; Getting in Tune and Behind Blue Eyes. 4 ๐
Well was prepared tobjate this album, but I didn't. The shouting vocals are something I will never get used to but the musc; fast, full and dramatic made up for it. I did get a little bored at the last couple of songs so I would say best served in small doses. 3.5 ๐
Blue and Court and Spark are my two favorite Joni Mitchell albums. To me they're 2 sides of the same coin that is JM. Blue is of course the quieter, more sparse album, often just Jon's voice and a guitar or a piano. And what a vocal performance it is. Expressive, emotive and with a range few can match. So mature for such a young lady at the time. I also love when she does up the tempo, specifically on Carey and This Flight Tonight. Every song is an artistic expression. I really never tire of Blue. It should be a staple of every record collection 5 ๐
Wow. What an album. Captivating from beginning to end. Many familiar tunes that I had no idea were hers; Eli's Coming and Stone Soul Picnic in particular. On first listen my favorite song is the blues burner The Poverty Train. This album is an important discovery for me and I expect it to be an important addition to my regular listening. 4.5 ๐
A nearly perfect album. One great song after another. The guitar playing throughout is amazing and that includes some of the best accoustic guitar strumming anywhere. This was my introduction to Radiohead and it remains my favorite. OK Computer and Kid A are more ambitious and perhaps greater accomplishments, but for me this is where Radiohead hit their sweet spot 5 ๐
Lots of interesting tracks here kept me entertained from beginning to end. Favorite song; Come To Me. 4 ๐
With just one hit single: the brilliant I Can See For Miles, it might not be self evident why The Who Sell Out would be many fans favourite Who album. But one listen shows just how many, interesting and fully formed musical ideas that ....Sell Out, has. It's the perfect distillation of their obvious musical chops and their songwriting chops, before they became arena rock darlings. I think it's subtle and understated and totally compelling. Quadrophenia is still my fave but Sell Out continues to close the gap with each listen. 4.5 ๐
A fine album with 2 absolutely superb songs; Superstition and I Believe When I fall in Love. The rest of the album ain't half bad neither. My 2nd favorite Stevie Wonder album. 4.5 ๐
Well this album certainly has some of The Police's best and best known songs. The hits are some of the classics from the era. The early part of the album has some strangely dissonant songs that are no where of the quality of the second half particularly the song Mother which sounds like it could be from a Birthday Party album. It sounds soooo out of place on this album that I had to vheck that Tidal hadn't started a random play. The hits are impressive the rest... not so much. 4 ๐
Ok so I'm NOT a Bon Jovi fan. This album has lots of hits no denying that. My favorite song is Dead or Alive...sucker for that power ballad formula when it's done right. The real question is are any of the songs...the non-hits worthy of my attention and my answer is an empatic; no fucking way! (OK maybe album closer Wild in the streets). So what we have here is a generic hard rock album with some mega hits. 3 ๐
I forgot how great an album this is. Even the noisy, distorted bits are compelling. But the pop songs are absolutely gorgeous. Songs like I Hang Suspended, I Wish I was Skinny, Butterfly McQueen, Barney....And Me, Lazarus ate just gorgeously crafted pop songs. 5 ๐
Still my favourite Doors album, with my favourite Doors song....The End. But the rest of the album is damn good as well; Break on Through, Light My Fire, The Crystal Ship, Back Door Man. Allmusic.com calls it one of the greatest debut albums of all time and I tend to agree. 5 stars
Another enjoyable hip hop album. More smooth than others of the genre, both in the music and raps which have a warmth of subject line relationships, family etc... a nice mature soulful sound. Half way through and enjoying the generally positive message. Then comes Chi city which has what I perceive as more traditional rap theme's...life on the streets, police conflict, etc. Still a pretty smooth sound to the music. 3.75 ๐
I liked this a lot. Interesting delivery good songs and not too long. Very mysterious. 4 ๐
It's a Tom Waits album, what else can you say? You either like it or not. Well I guess I'm the exception that proves the rule because I kinda like but I'm not a fan. One TW album sounds pretty much like the rest. For me, in small doses I can find enjoyment. 3 ๐
Another great sounding hip hop record. I really had no idea how talented Kanye West is. Yes the record is too long but I hardly notice because each song real substance and stands on its own as a piece. The longer songs never wear out their welcome. A testament to his inate ability to keep things flowing and accessible. 4 ๐
Not a fan of Clapton. To my mind this is average album with 2 great songs; one, Layla I really wouldn't care if I never heard it again, the other Bell Bottom Blues, gives the album a full star for its excellence. Overall 3.5 ๐
I like this album. The atmospherics give it a Daniel Lanois vibe. His voice has a dylanesque drawl which is appealing. The songs are generally strong especially Under Pressure, Red Eyes, Burning and in Reverse. The guitar sound is also notable. It does get a little same by the end but the strong songwriting keeps it interesting. 3.75 stars.
This is a very accomplished album. Is it as good as I Should Coco, their brilliant and much lauded debut? I'm not the one to ask. You see In It for the Money is my introduction to Supergrass and as such will always hold a unique place for me. Regardless In it for the Money is a GREAT brit pop album and packs a rockers punch that other more celebrated albums of the genre never quite reach for me. Every song has their charms. I had forgotten how good an album this is. 4.5 ๐
This is a really good album, not quite as good as Either/or, but there are some really good songs. 4 ๐
Rush was part of my adolescence. 2112, A Farewell to Kings, and Hemispheres, were never far from my turntable. Unfortunately once Moving Puctures arrived, Rush was part of my past. I had moved on to punk, new wave and alternative though those three mentioned still have a place in my heart if not on my turntable. So how dod I like Moving Pictures? Not very much. The songs I knew; Tom sawyer and Limelight suffered from over exposure and among the other songs nothing really grabbed me....perhaps with a few more listens....but I somehow doubt it. 3 ๐
A polished slice of 80s blue eyed soul. To me this is everything that's wrong with 80s popular music; lots of glitz and glamor with little substance. On the plus side there's some great bass playing. 2 ๐
I'm really not a modern R&B guy, I have never heard of this album or artist before. Even though this is not a genre that I like, generally I can't deny the quality and uniqueness of this album. The spoken word intros are interesting and generally delivered with a sincerity and conversational style that lends an authenticity that I found provocative. The songs are strong and intelligent. I appreciate the brevity of this album as well. 3.5 ๐
No denying his impressive talents, unfortunately his style of music just doesn't resonate with me. Little Red Corvette is a great song and there are a couple other good songs too but that's about it for me 3 ๐
My first Missy Elliott album. Not bad musically every once in a while it hits a reslly cool groove, most notably on Back in the day...definitely a cool song. Now the lyrical subject matter is generally pretty juvenile...nothing wrong with that, per se, I mean juveniles are people too. The spoken word intros get a little hard to take for sure but all in all a good listen that could work for me as background music that once in a while might push it's way too the foreground. 3.5 ๐
Never heard of this band until now. Not sure why they are not huge radio mega stars. My theory on the fly is the hype machine doesn't know how to market this kind of music unless there is an individual (ie. Bruno Mars) to focus on. Their sound is varied with all kinds of different touchstones; funk, latin pop, rock, alternative maybe even, rap, hip hop and jazz . Everything is performed with a verve and energy that is absolutely infectious. This is not typically my genre but this album will remain on my playlist. Favorite song; Love and Hope. 4 ๐
This was my first ever hip hop / rap album and still perhaps my favoeite. like most albums of this genres i wish it were 10 minutes shorter, but its got great tunes. It does sound a bit samey throughout but it still manages to keep me interested to the end. 4.5 โญ๏ธ
...and post punk begins. John Lydon in all his irreverent, pissed off, indignant glory. And great songs to boot...Theme, Religion, Annalise, Public Image. A fine album that shows the way to the master piece to come (Metal Box). 4 ๐
Nice album. Season of the Witch is a 5 ๐ song and there are a few others that caught my ear. A few more listens and it might get to 4 but for 3.5 ๐
This album is loads of fun...just like it's most famous tune....Just a Gigolo. 4 ๐
A nice debut solo effort for Simon but not among his best nor the best of Simon and Garfunkel. but the trademark Simon 70s songwriting style is there in abundance, which is a good thing. 3.5 ๐
I liked this album. I like it more than Urban Hymns. Spacey and atmospheric, I think they pull it off really well. It starts out great, bogs down a bit in the middle but ends with a couple really strong tracks. Urban Hymns always sounded too polished and too "rock star" like. I never warmed to it which is why I never explored any other releases from their catalogue. 3.5 stars
this album has my favourite Byrds tune...My Back Pages. Love that song. A couple of other good songs here but more filler than most Byrds albums that I know. 3.5 stars
this is a fine album that I find difficult to make stick. Listened to it several times, can't seem to recall the melodies nor do I find myself curious to put it on again. i am aware of it's huge reputation and alleged importance to the Brit Pop movement so .5 additional stars for that. 3 stars
Wow this is a great album. Jazzy, funky with amazing guitar and fantastic percussion. I loved it. 4.5 ๐
Pretty damn hott this album. Dance rock at it's best. I warmed to thus one more easily than Screamadelica, which still hasn't quite done it for me. But this album makes me want to try Screamadelica another spin see what I'm missing. Anyway Vanishing Point locks into some awesome dance grooves. Very enjoyable. 4 ๐
some really good songs and some songs that didn't engage me. The good songs; Strawberry Letter 23 and Ice Cold Daydream, Sweet Thang are really good. Wish there were a few more gems. 3 stars
Another strong album from LCD. The rockers are infectious and the slower tempo numbers sound appropriately intense and emotional. As usual the influences are a plenty....Bowie, Talking Heads, Kraftwerk, Can; they're all here and many more. 4 ๐
What an incredible top 10 for me for sure. One great tune after another. And the Attractions COOK! Favorite songs; The Beat, lipstick Vogue, This Year's Girl. 5 BIG STARS
Not my favorite S & G album but it has Mrs. Robinson and Hazy Shade if Winter. Enuf said. 4 ๐
Not my type of music but there's no denying Dolly's songwriting chops and the arrangements are generally tasteful and melodies; timeless. 4 ๐
Can is an incredible band that sound so far ahead of their time that it's mind boggling. The rhythms and cool melodies are at times accessible and at times otherworldly. The drumming on this album is virtuoso. Two of the longer songs are noise fests and unlistenable to me. This keeps this album from being 5 star entry. So for now 4 ๐
What a gorgeous mess of an album this is. I first put it on while working and every once in a while something would catch my ear and I'd think WTF was that? (and not in a good way). Next step listening in the car...louder, less distracted and my WTFs became...Hmmm isn't that interesting? Then a listen on the big rig at home and I'm all in. Does anything boring or unintelligent ever come out of these guys talented minds. Reminds me of a Hip Hop Clash Sandanista. All kinds of influences that are filtered through Andre's fertile imagination. This guy is a music lover and he's brilliant. 4.5 stars
This album starts out like an all time classic. Side 1 is non stop excellence...with some of the best power pop mixed with some stellar psychedelica. Side 2 is less successful as the songs are just not as memorable. All in all an excellent album 4 ๐
Nothing else on the album approaches the brilliance of You're Gonna Miss Me; a potent blast of guitar rock gold. The rest of the album stakes the bands claim as the FIRST psychedelic rock band with the amplified jug playing giving them a totally unique and somewhat spacey, ethereal sound. A fine album that all should hear at least if you have even a passing interest in 60s guitar rock. 4 ๐
Another fine album from the boss. Even his throwaway songs sound familiar and comfortable. Doesn't have the consistency of his 5 star albums but there's enough good songs to please most music fans. 4 ๐
Hello Bells is a great song my favourite from this band of which I'm not really a fan. But this a strong hard rock album. Some of the tunes are pretty banal; Give the Dog a Bone, Let Me Put My Love Into You...I mean really? Reminds me of Spinal Tap's Lick my Love Pump. But still a very strong album. 4 ๐
Man this one shocked me. Of course the dance floor standards are iconic blasts of energy, but the whole album is great. Rather song Savoir Faire has some of the most gorgeous guitar I've ever heard. The album emphasizes the bands incredible interplay and leaves the cheesy production flourishes that plagued so much music of this era, to a bare minimum. 4.5 ๐
I had never heard this album before and damn it's good. I did find the opening track and it's weird lyric snd over the top lead guitar solo. Also a bit of a dated 80s sounding production but on first listen the songs sound great. I look forward to listening more intently and paying attention to the lyrics I expect to be pleased. 4 ๐
This is a damn fine album and for me just behind Madman Across the Water for EJs very best. The first 4 songs are basically classics and point to the stylistic chameleon EJ can be. A prog rock opus, a tender ballad, a straight up rocker and mid tempo beauty all done with drama and grace. There are a few silly one's the rest of the way (I'm looking at you Jamaica Jerk Off). But Grey Seal and especially Saturday Night's Alright for Fighting, raise the bar once again. An excellent album 4.5 ๐
This set is really hot. Love his voice and the band really cooks (pardon the pun). The atmosphere sounds incredible and his interplay with the audience natural. It's a great performance. 4 ๐
A pretty good album just not up to the standard of Paranoid or my favorite 4. But this one set the template for a slew of heavy metal bands to come. 4 ๐
Another fine collection of R.E.M. songs. Maybe the first album where Michael Stipes vocals are NOT unintelligible hilighting what a fine lyricist he is. Side 1 is particularly strong with not a weak song of the bunch, plus huge personal props for including a Wire cover (is this the first time they include a cover song?). Side 1 ends and Side 2 begins with the two hits, which are both excellent songs. After The One I Love, we get our first run of less than stellar songs in Fireplace and Lightnin' Hopkins. (It's weird and a little jarring hearing a sax in an R.E.M. song). The album ends on a particularly strong note with Odfellows Local 151. Not quite up to the standards of Murmer or Reckoning, but a damn fine album in it's own right. 4.5 ๐
The first great Beatles album full of classic songs, beautiful harmonies, memorable melodies, tight rhythms a d great playing. 5 ๐
This one was a surprise a fine amalgam of jazz, R&B, hip hop and rock. The playing is first rate especially the bass. The vocals are distinctive and excellent. A very nice discovery. 3.5 ๐
It takes serious balls for a band to start their "difficult" sophomore album with a song like Attrocity Exhibition. Challenging, jarring even ugly at points both musically and especially in subject matter. But JD if nothing else, had balls. This album is as harrowing a personal statement as any in rock and roll. I just wish it had been cathartic enough to allow Ian Curtis to fend off his personal demons...to allow us the chance to hear what would have come next. Unknown Pleasures was JDs statement of arrival and it is visceral and immediate and raw. Closer is the magnum opus for me it holds up better today. Either way both are 5 ๐ albums
I have tried and tried to get into Loveless, but the wall of sound buried melodies and mumbled vocals just don't do it for me. This album seems more of the same but it seems to have more moments where I found myself nodding my head and thinking ok yes this part does work. On a couple of occasions they dial back the distortion and feedback to where one can actually hear individual instruments. Still the overall feel is of pleasant noise instead of stirring music. 2.5 ๐
This is one heavy album. And the opener Requiem is the albums heaviest song. The album is carried by the greatness of Requiem. Requiem is the perfect distillation of classic Black Sabbath through the filter of 1980s Punk/post punk in GB. Both reminiscent of the past as well as predicting the Goth and Industrial styles to come. There are other good songs on Killing Joke, But its Requiem that makes this album a 4.5
Damn this is a good album I have always been partial to White Blood Cells but Elephant stock is on the rise. It also helps that it opens with The Strips greatest anthem....and it really is an anthem; Seven Nation Army. And there's not much let up; There's no Home For You Here, Ball and Buscuit, The Hardest Button to Button to name just three. And the slower songs too all uniformly strong. Ever time I listen to thus album my esteem for it grows. 4.5 ๐
Another gorgeous Nick Drake album, though this one's my least favorite of the three it is still a gorgeous album, beautifully arranged and performed with just the right hint of pathos. 5 ๐
I enjoyed this album very much on first listen and I feel it warrants a deep dive. Stylistically very different from my usual fare as he definitely has the voice and sensibilities of a crooner. But the arrangements grabbed even on the first listen and make me want to get to know them. 4 ๐
What a fantastic album. Johnny Cash sounds particularly motivated on this album and he really seems empathetic to the audience who of course feed off of his empathy and his energy. Johnny Cash at his absolute best 5 ๐
Green Onions is a true undisputed classic. Mo Onions is also lost as good. And there are other great renditions of classic tunes that Boomer T turn into instrumental classics ...I've Got a Woman, Twist and Shout and the album closer, Coming Home Baby make you forget that they originally had lyrics, so adept are Boomer Ts organ and Steve Broker's guitar at filling the tune with melodic goodness. 4.5 stars
It has been more than 40 years since I put this album on a turntable and set back to listen to it. When it was released it was everywhere and Do You Feel Like I Do was the anthem that defined the year it was released. Well this was a very enjoyable stroll down memory lane. The songs hold up very very well, (Helped by the fact that the vinyl copy I have is almost dead quiet and sounds awesome. Tyรฎcal of A & M releases back in the day. There are a couple duds....Jumping Jack Flash is totally unnecessary and uninspired but the hilights are very high and Frampton's guitar playing always tasteful...something I appreciate more now than I did then. This is a fince 70s live album that has stood the test of time. 4.5 stars
A really nice album with catchy singable songwriting, a storytellers gift for a beautiful lyric as well as production that is graceful and always in service to the song. I could see Nancy Griffith holding the same lofty position in my library as the brilliant Lucinda Williams. 3.5 ๐
An absolutely gorgeous album, perfectly paced, beautifully produced / orchestrated and songs that are so full of beautiful melodies that stay with you. I was introduced to Mercury Rev through All is Dream and I still think it is the stronger album overall but the higher high points belong to Desserters Songs. 4.5 ๐
this is a pretty good album, didn't really hear any dud songs. Good melodies, nice harmonies, beautiful playing and tastefully arranged. This would be called dream pop if it came out today and it sounds as good as Beach House and the like. 3.5 stars
This is my favourite Stooges album and by definition my favourite Iggy Pop album. It is a noisy muddled mess but it captures the band at the peak of there power. And the songs are better than on The Stooges even if the latter had the bigger "hits". Sure a couple of the songs go on too long with the dissonant noise thing...but hey it's The Stooges init? 5 stars
This album has its moments especially in the second. The first half sounds strained and sophomoric. Sounds like they just want to be a white Parliament/Funkadelic, but the funky sounds just ridiculous and the screaming guitars lack the taste of when funkadelic showed that side. After Give it Away things get better and the band seems to find their voice but by then the mold is cast. 2.5 ๐
Some good songs here. It suffers from cheesy 80s style production choices. 2.5 ๐
Ok so it's not my jam but I definitely liked it more than I expected. Probably as close to punk as metal gets. 2.5 ๐
After Funeral there was no where for Arcade Fire to go but down. Luckily they didn't fall too far. I find Neon Bible a very different sounding album; thicker, darker production that is in stark contrast to Funeral's lighter, childlike feel. Not a bad thing in and of itself. It's the songs where Neon Bible falls short. There are still some very good songs; Keep the Car Running, Ocean of Noise, Windowsill and No Cars Go to name a couple. But the heaviness of the album makes carrying that weight a chore all the way through. That's not aided by the fact that Regine's contributions are lesser in both quantity and quality. Still a good album but one I probably would not have included on this list. 3.5 stars
A beautiful album just not sure it's for me. High level songwriting, sweet melodies. Will play this more than once and see where it leads me. 3.5 ๐
A really good album, UT I'm not a huge fan either Depeche Mode nor of 80s electronic music in general. But this is a good one. 3.5 ๐
This one really surprised me at just how good it is. The songs are excellent, the playing...particularly bass and drums absolutely first rate and funky as hell. Jim Kerr hasn't quite found his trademark voice, sometimes sounding like Howard DeVoto, but you definitely see the arena rock mega stardom that's to come. An excellent 80s rock album. 4.5 ๐
This is the definition of a 5 star album. One incredible song after another. I gave it short shrift because of how overplayed Stairway is .... and was during the 70s. But there is no denying the song's greatness. The other real classic is; in the same epic sense When The Levee Breaks. Just a fantastic with so many wonderful, musical twists and turns to let it sound fresh and new and interesting with every listen.
Not really a favourite of mine among Neil Young albums. Seems kind of a generic sounding rock and roll album with few memorable songs. Mansion on the Hill strikes me as one of the better tunes but besides that. 3 ๐