Journey in Progress
Discovering music one album at a time
947
Albums Rated
3.29
Avg Rating
72
5-Star Albums
87%
Complete
142 albums remaining
Rating Speed
4.4
Per Week
1520
Days Active
Reviews
946
Written
100%
Review Rate
vs Global
0.1
Avg Diff
3.29
Avg Rating
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How you rate albums
Rating Timeline
Average rating over time
Ratings by Decade
Which era do you prefer?
Activity by Day
When do you listen?
Taste Profile
1960s
Favorite Decade
Reggae
Favorite Genre
other
Top Origin
Balanced
Rater Style
3
1-Star Albums
Taste Analysis
Genre Preferences
Ratings by genre
Origin Preferences
Ratings by country
Rating Style
You Love More Than Most
Albums you rated higher than global average
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calenture | 5 | 2.55 | +2.45 |
| Kenza | 5 | 2.58 | +2.42 |
| Bone Machine | 5 | 2.86 | +2.14 |
| White Light / White Heat | 5 | 2.88 | +2.12 |
| E.V.O.L. | 5 | 2.89 | +2.11 |
| Rattlesnakes | 5 | 2.9 | +2.1 |
| Kollaps | 4 | 1.9 | +2.1 |
| 16 Lovers Lane | 5 | 2.95 | +2.05 |
| Swordfishtrombones | 5 | 2.95 | +2.05 |
| More Specials | 5 | 2.96 | +2.04 |
You Love Less Than Most
Albums you rated lower than global average
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| At Fillmore East | 1 | 3.39 | -2.39 |
| Smile | 1 | 3.06 | -2.06 |
| Rage Against The Machine | 2 | 4 | -2 |
| Pet Sounds | 2 | 3.93 | -1.93 |
| Smokers Delight | 1 | 2.91 | -1.91 |
| The Stranger | 2 | 3.86 | -1.86 |
| Boston | 2 | 3.71 | -1.71 |
| Sheer Heart Attack | 2 | 3.65 | -1.65 |
| Hotel California | 2 | 3.6 | -1.6 |
| 1984 | 2 | 3.51 | -1.51 |
Artist Analysis
Favorite Artists
Artists with 2+ albums and high weighted score
| Artist | Albums | Avg | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| David Bowie | 9 | 4.56 | 4.17 |
| Tom Waits | 4 | 4.75 | 4 |
| The Doors | 3 | 5 | 4 |
| Sonic Youth | 3 | 5 | 4 |
| Beatles | 6 | 4.33 | 3.89 |
| Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds | 4 | 4.5 | 3.86 |
| Beastie Boys | 3 | 4.67 | 3.83 |
| Public Enemy | 3 | 4.67 | 3.83 |
| Aretha Franklin | 2 | 5 | 3.8 |
| Jimi Hendrix | 2 | 5 | 3.8 |
| The Pogues | 2 | 5 | 3.8 |
| The Specials | 2 | 5 | 3.8 |
| Pixies | 2 | 5 | 3.8 |
| The Clash | 2 | 5 | 3.8 |
| The Velvet Underground | 2 | 5 | 3.8 |
| Talking Heads | 4 | 4.25 | 3.71 |
| Nirvana | 3 | 4.33 | 3.67 |
Least Favorite Artists
Artists with 2+ albums and low weighted score
| Artist | Albums | Avg | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Beach Boys | 3 | 2 | 2.5 |
| Kanye West | 3 | 2 | 2.5 |
5-Star Albums (72)
View Album Wall
Popular Reviews
Gotan Project
3/5
I didn't mind this as sort of interesting background music, but it does seem an odd choice for this list. I think you could die without having heard it.
27 likes
Coldplay
3/5
This is a strange one - looking through the reviews I don't think I've seen a more polarising album. All 1s or 5s. I've tried to listen to it neutrally, and will give it a 3. There are some OK hooks, but generally it is pretty bland.
8 likes
Dennis Wilson
3/5
This was better and more interesting that I thought it would be given the Beach Boys connection. Like the Beach Boys with the annoying elements removed and replaced with something grittier
5 likes
Brian Wilson
1/5
I just don't like the Beach Boys and I don't like this. There is the odd OK moment - but those slide whistles - jeez!
5 likes
Burning Spear
5/5
I love this album - one of my favourites. If you don't like reggae, I don't think it is going to convert you - but I love the raw elements - his plaintive voice, the 'country' horns, poewrful lyrics in patois etc etc
4 likes
1-Star Albums (3)
All Ratings
Aretha Franklin
5/5
Chain of Fools!
James Brown
5/5
Rawer than the later records
Rush
3/5
This one was completely new to me. Not usually a fan of prog-rock, but this was OK I think partly due to their stripped down sound as a 3 piece
Aretha Franklin
5/5
Another great Aretha Album
Cream
3/5
Brings back memories, but I think has dated a bit
Nick Drake
4/5
Delicate
Beyoncé
3/5
Elliott Smith
5/5
Perfection - one of my favourite albums ever
Billy Joel
2/5
Slick, but not really my taste
Pink Floyd
3/5
I have not listened to this for a long time, and enjoyed it more than I thought I would. Dated in parts, overexposed in others, but an interesting album
New York Dolls
3/5
OK, but not as good as the Stooges
Bob Dylan
4/5
I've always liked and respected Dylan rather than loved him, but I think this is my favourite album of his
Joni Mitchell
3/5
Interesting and unique
The Band
3/5
Nice and loose
Jimi Hendrix
5/5
Purple haze - one of my favourite songs. This is a great album
David Crosby
4/5
I didn't know what to expect, and ended up liking this album a lot
Boston
2/5
While I don't mind the twin guitar solos, this is not really my thing. Seems to me a heavy 60s & 70s US bias in this list so far
Ice Cube
3/5
Sounds great, but some of the misogyny jars nowadays
Motörhead
4/5
Rude and raucous - Ace of Spades is the essence of rock. Enjoyed this one.
Metallica
4/5
Enjoyed this one - crunchy and precise
Run-D.M.C.
3/5
Tricky and Walk this Way are awesome, but a lot of this sounds a bit dated now
N.W.A.
3/5
Sounds incredible - a lot of energy, but now I find the 'Bitch is a Bitch' type lyrics jarring - kicking down?
David Gray
2/5
OK - but a little dull. Not sure what the album is doing on this list
Fats Domino
3/5
Interesting as a milestone in the history of rock - but not sure I'd listen to it too much for pleasure
The Stooges
4/5
I love the Stooges, but this album is let down a little by the production. Great songs, but I prefer Fun House
Burning Spear
5/5
I love this album - one of my favourites. If you don't like reggae, I don't think it is going to convert you - but I love the raw elements - his plaintive voice, the 'country' horns, poewrful lyrics in patois etc etc
Sade
2/5
I don't mind Smooth Operator, but the rest of this album is pretty dull. Seems like a strange choice for this list
Grizzly Bear
3/5
It had some depth and I enjoyed it. would have liked to have first heard this when I was younger
Isaac Hayes
4/5
Smooth and soulful, and a bit strange. Interesting to hear a Public Enemy sample. I enjoyed this a lot
Hawkwind
3/5
Not what I was expecting. So long and so Spinal Tap. Didn't know Lemmy from Motorhead was in this band. Some weird stuff, some pedestrian. Glad I listened to it once but don't imagine going back to it.
Dirty Projectors
4/5
The first album and group that was completely new to me on this list. I enjoyed it as something fresh and different.
The Pogues
5/5
I've always loved this album - kept finding myself humming or whistling along. Just brilliant
Paul Weller
3/5
Pretty good
Rage Against The Machine
2/5
Some good riffs and energy, but feels like something you grow out of. I agree with the other reviewer - listen to Public Enemy
Sex Pistols
4/5
Pretty Vacant is one of my all time favourites, and there are a lot of other great songs on this as well. Enjoyed it
Black Sabbath
4/5
First time listen for me - pretty good
Paul McCartney and Wings
3/5
Known of this album for years, but never felt the need to listen to it. Pretty interesting, including the backstory that it was recorded in Lagos
Bob Dylan
3/5
Pretty good - a Bob Dylan album I guess
The Fall
4/5
I can see that this album polarises people, but I loved it.
Fiona Apple
3/5
Interesting, but not really my thing
Jamiroquai
2/5
A Stevie wonder rip-off that hasn't really dated well. Lots of people loved it when I was young, which is fine, but it was always irritating to me - especially the lyrics
Cheap Trick
3/5
It's OK I guess - of it's time. Can't help but think of Spinal Tap at some point
Judas Priest
2/5
A bit pedestrian I thought - I don't mind metal, but this wasn't for me
Tortoise
4/5
I enjoyed this one - even if as background music I could engage with
Kraftwerk
4/5
I enjoyed this one a lot - unique and true to itself. I can imagine how amazing it would have been when it was released in 1978, and still sounds fresh
Harry Nilsson
3/5
Interesting, one of those artists I knew the name of, recognised a couple of his songs, but had never really listened to. I enjoyed the album, and you can definitely hear the Beatles influences
Queen
3/5
While it is obvlously a classic, I find it a bit overwrought - not really to my taste. I'm not a fan of Opera either.
David Bowie
4/5
Interesting to read how polarised the reviews are of this album. Personally, I love it - so evocative of an amazing period
Serge Gainsbourg
4/5
Nice to have non US/UK choice. I loved this one, very funky, and due to minimal french, can avoid alleged paedo overtones to lyrics as noted in other reviews.
Al Green
4/5
Pure and beautiful - what is not to like?
Michael Jackson
4/5
It is impossible to review this album objectively. But there is no doubt there are some bangers on it
Patti Smith
3/5
Interesting - one of those albums I've known about for a long time, but never actually listened to from beginning to end.
Living Colour
3/5
It was OK - of its time I guess
Lana Del Rey
4/5
She's a favourite artist of my daughter's but I hadn't listened to her before. Beautiful, I enjoyed this (and Norman Fucking Rockwell, which my daughter said was better)
Tricky
4/5
A fantastic unique album - love it
PJ Harvey
3/5
I love PJ Harvey - but I don't think this is her best album
David Bowie
3/5
Fame is one of my favourite Bowie songs ever - but the rest of the album is a little ho-hum
Radiohead
3/5
Pretty good - Radioheadhas always been one of those bands I understand are good, but they don't really connect for me
The Rolling Stones
4/5
One of my favourite Stones albums - loose and raucous.
Hanoi Rocks
3/5
Interesting story, I was only vaguely aware of this band and no idea they were from Finland. But album is pretty average
Beatles
5/5
Nothing needs to be said about this - takes me back to listening to my parents' copy when I was 10. I love this album
Fiona Apple
3/5
I enjoyed this more than er other album on this list
Coldplay
3/5
This is a strange one - looking through the reviews I don't think I've seen a more polarising album. All 1s or 5s. I've tried to listen to it neutrally, and will give it a 3. There are some OK hooks, but generally it is pretty bland.
Mekons
3/5
Interesting - but not sure I would want to listen to that more than once
The Blue Nile
3/5
Never heard of this band before - interesting album, happy to listen to it while working
Brian Eno
3/5
Pretty good - distinctive sound
Various Artists
3/5
It's OK - an interesting artefact
Fleet Foxes
4/5
Its a beautiful thing. I had played it too much previously and happy to encounter it again here.
Quicksilver Messenger Service
2/5
Too much noodling - this one should have stayed in the 60s
Spiritualized
3/5
Interesting - a new album for me
Bruce Springsteen
3/5
Enjoyable, even if I am not as crazy about The Boss as a lot of other people
2Pac
3/5
Never listened to this before, OK - West Coast sound
Bad Company
3/5
I was only vaguely aware of this band. Solid 'meat and potatoes' rock
Janet Jackson
3/5
Interesting to listen to such a prominent album which I'd not listened to previously - OK but it didn't grab me. Production is very of its time.
4/5
Never heard of this guy - and really enjoyed this one. Bossa nova with a slightly experimental twist that stops it being muzak
Elliott Smith
4/5
Much more familar with XO and Figure 8 so interesting to hear this earlier work
The Smashing Pumpkins
3/5
It's OK - an album and artist that was in the ecosystem but which I never felt the need to engage with
Dolly Parton
3/5
Interesting - pure country - not quite my thing but appreciated it nonetheless
Anthrax
3/5
Always happy to enjoy some thrash - this is competent, but not distinctive
Talking Heads
4/5
I am a fan, though I prefer to later albums, this is pretty good
Slipknot
3/5
I'd never taken much notice of this band - album was better than I thought it would be
Bruce Springsteen
3/5
I understand the appeal - it just doesn't resonate with me
Brian Eno
4/5
I like the texture of this record - have had the vinyl for years
Barry Adamson
4/5
A polarising album - but I like soundtracks and I like the concept
Femi Kuti
4/5
Fantastic - a lot of energy. I enjoyed this as much, and perhaps even more than Fela Kuti - though they do sound very similar. Apple doesn't fall far from the tree
Wilco
3/5
Some good songs here
Air
3/5
Pleasant, and a little more interesting than I thought it would be
The Saints
4/5
Happy to see an Australian band on the list. If you like this, try some other Australian bands of the era: Laughing Clowns, Died Pretty, Radio Birdman, The Triffids
Wilco
3/5
Pretty good - pleasant, and every now and then something grabs my attention
Digital Underground
4/5
Very naughty and a lot of fun - and funky. I enjoyed this one!
Coldplay
3/5
OK - recognised some of the tunes, but it didn't make much of an impact
Cypress Hill
3/5
Pretty good - though I like Black Sunday better
M.I.A.
3/5
OK - though in some ways delivers less than it promises. Love Mango Pickle with the Wilcannia Mob though!
Jimmy Smith
3/5
Smooth - perhaps a little too much so - but good background music
Muddy Waters
3/5
Pretty good - though perhaps not his best?
Aphex Twin
3/5
Interesting background music - which I guess is all you can ask from Ambient music
Prince
3/5
Like many other reviewers, I don't 100% get Prince - though he is obviously an important figure and there are some great tracks in here.
The Byrds
3/5
I enjoyed this as a piece of recording history. I think they were very influential for bands in Australia.
Beatles
5/5
Having listened to my parents copy of this on vinyl repeatedly in the 70's this record is part of my DNA. And (with the exception of Run For Your Life - why are so many 60's songs about killing your girlfriend?) it still sounds fantastic. Love it!
Morrissey
3/5
Is it unfair to compare this to the Smiths? I loved them, but haven't really listened to his solo work. It's not too bad
Faith No More
3/5
Solid, but not really my thing no more
Billy Bragg
3/5
It's OK, but I'm not the audience for this.
Neneh Cherry
3/5
I don't think this has dated well, though there are some fresh sounding bits.
Van Halen
3/5
Is what it is I suppose - competent but leaves me cold. However happy to listen to a landmark album a couple of times
Lightning Bolt
4/5
Completely new to me - never heard of these guys before. Fresh, I liked it
Marvin Gaye
4/5
Smooth as butter
Queens of the Stone Age
4/5
I'm a long term QOTSA fan, but had not listened to this album before. Found it a little disappointing at first, but it repaid a few repeat listens
The Gun Club
3/5
Interesting - I think this album was very influential in the Sydney live music scene in the 80s. Not quite my thing now, but I would have loved it then
Kendrick Lamar
4/5
Dense and interesting - feels like I need to listen to it a few more times. But also feel like I'm not really the audience for this.
Foo Fighters
3/5
It's a solid album, but didn't hear anything to hook me.
Eagles
2/5
Another album that is impossible to separate from pre-existing impressions, prejudices etc. And I have just heard Hotel California too many times! Can I place myself in the position of someone hearing it for the first time? What would I think? Pretty solid but does not resonate for me. Coincidently - just watched the Big Lebowski - which would get a 4 or even a 5
Ray Charles
3/5
Interesting to hear the big band sound, but nothing jumped out at me. Perhaps a bit of its time?
The Specials
5/5
This was a favourite of my teenage years, as were all Specials albums. And I still love them
Amy Winehouse
3/5
I don't usually like vocal jazz - but I've always felt Amy Winehouse was a bit different. I enjoyed listening to this - more familiar with her later albums.
Fela Kuti
4/5
Great vibes
The Beach Boys
2/5
Interesting album, and a little different - but I just don't like the Beach Boys. I can understand why others do - but I don't
Steely Dan
3/5
Apart from 'Reelin' in the Years' Steely Dan were never on my radar. I didn't mind listening to this album, and like another person, enjoyed hearing some De La Soul samples etc.
Beastie Boys
5/5
One of my favourite albums - good fun to work my way through the list of samples in the wikipedia article
Joni Mitchell
3/5
Pleasant listening, with some interesting twists here and there
Hole
3/5
I had overlooked this album - it was much better than I thought it would be.
The Specials
5/5
I grew up listening compulsively to this album - so I am not even going to pretend to leave an objective review. Still sounds great!
The Who
3/5
None of the songs really live up to My Generation
Aimee Mann
3/5
Didn't mind this at all
Big Star
3/5
I've heard a lot about Big Star over the years, but never really listened to them. Interesting album with its own sound
Happy Mondays
2/5
Normally I try to listen to each of these albums at least twice. But this was long and pretty sketchy, so only once.
The White Stripes
3/5
By co-incidence, we watched Napoleon Dynamite the day this album come up. One of my favourite films, and I never knew the title track was a White Stripes song. I had heard the hits from this album, but never listened to it the whole way through. I think the variety of sounds is surprising, given the set up of the band. Enjoyable.
Neu!
4/5
I'd never heard of this band before, and found this album pretty appealing. Definitely identifiable as a precursor for a lot of other artists I like. A good discovery
Devendra Banhart
3/5
Its OK, some interesting bits in there
Bob Dylan
4/5
I agree with all the reviews for this album, positive and negative, and those in languages I can't read.
Kendrick Lamar
3/5
A solid album, lots of stuff to get caught on in there.
Miriam Makeba
3/5
Such a a beautiful voice - the guy in One Last Dance is very annoying though
The Temptations
3/5
Pretty album - some parts are a little close to Sly Stone for comfort
Leonard Cohen
4/5
I really enjoyed this album. Fantastic lyrics, and I don't understand the criticisms of his voice and delivery which are perfect. I also think the production adds an interesting layer as well.
Radiohead
3/5
Radiohead escaped me at the time - there's some nice tunes on this though!
John Cale
3/5
I love the VU so predisposed to listen to this - and wasn't disappointed. I actually like his vocal style, and found all the tracks pretty interesting
PJ Harvey
3/5
I love PJ Harvey - though perhaps her other albums more than this which I hadn't listened to before
Metallica
3/5
Functional head cleaning music - that feels very appropriate reflecting current world events (April 2022)
Mike Oldfield
3/5
Some interesting bits, some strange bits and some very daggy bits. Somehow I've escaped listening to this until now - good to check it off the list I suppose.
Doves
3/5
It was OK - good without making a big impression
Pulp
3/5
Interesting artefact - didn't listen to it then, only really heard of Common People - probably won't listen to it again - but glad I listened to it for this
Jurassic 5
3/5
It was Ok
Teenage Fanclub
3/5
Fine, but nothing that grabbed me or would lead me to listen to it again
Saint Etienne
3/5
OK - Neil Young cover is one track I would listen to again.
Iron Maiden
3/5
First entire Iron Maiden album I have listened to. It was OK, but not enough that I would consider going back for more
Raekwon
3/5
Didn't leave much of an impression on me
The Pharcyde
3/5
Pretty good fun, although iffy in parts. Interesting to hear the Public Enemy parodies here and there - eg Officer
Eurythmics
3/5
Enjoyed this more than I thought I would - probably because I've only been (over) exposed to their massive hits before. There was some interesting synth-pop in there
Eminem
3/5
A hard one to rate - creative, great production, but unpleasant - hadn't listened to the whole album before, won't listen to it again
Nas
3/5
I was only vaguely familiar with Nas before listening to this album. I enjoyed the stripped down sound and texture. I'd listen again
Beach House
3/5
A favourite artist of my teenage kids. I thought it was OK - though sounded a lot like the Fleet Foxes
The Beach Boys
2/5
I find the Beach Boys very bland - they are just not my thing
Simon & Garfunkel
3/5
Interesting and beautiful. I prefer some of their other hits, but glad to listen to this
The Byrds
4/5
I love Eight Miles High - a cracker of a song. And there are some other good tracks there. I'll go back to it.
The Rolling Stones
4/5
I agree that there are some ordinary songs on this album, but Sympathy for the Devil alone rates a 4. Street Fighting Man and Jig Saw Puzzle are pretty great too.
Thelonious Monk
3/5
How to compare this with a Byrds album, for example? Pushing the limits of 'popular music' as the subject of this list? Anyway - I enjoyed it.
5/5
Brilliant, one of my favourite albums ever, and Good Fortune one of my favourite songs ever. Noting fantastic production by Mick Harvey (ex Bad Seeds).
ZZ Top
3/5
There is something elegant in the simplicity of the concept here - like with the Ramones. But really, in this case it's not for me.
Trivia question - which is the only ZZ Top member without a beard - the drummer, Frank Beard!
And then there is the Sesame St parody for the letter Z - classic line and the end from the Billy Gibbons muppet: "Only band I've ever played with that can fall asleep and keep playing the blues"!
Bruce Springsteen
3/5
Solid, and I like the piano in this album - but Bruce isn't for me
Michael Jackson
3/5
I agree with the majority view here - 1st side of the album is incredible, 2nd half is awful!
The Cure
4/5
A Gen X classic - I had this on a pirate cassette tape bought in Indonesia. The Cure were huge in Australia in the 80s and 90s. This album still creates the same mood now, but I can understand if it doesn't work so well for younger listeners.
AC/DC
3/5
Interesting here that no matter whether they give 1 or 5 stars, each review says more or less the same thing. And I agree with all of them
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
4/5
Hadn't listened to this album for a long time - forgot how good it was. And to note in passing that Nick Cave is one of the best live shows you'll ever see. Last time I saw him, he sang People Ain't No Good - during the song I was thinking to myself that the lyrics sounded a little juvenile. Then at the end of the song he said that he'd changed his views since that song was written and now he things "people are alright"!
Hookworms
3/5
Never heard of this band before. They were OK, didn't mind them, not sure I had to listen to them before I die though
The Notorious B.I.G.
3/5
I enjoyed this - yes some sketchy elements but as a lot of reviews say, a lot of head bobbing, and some great rhymes
Duran Duran
3/5
I enjoyed this, slick, of its time, cover is the most 80s thing I can imagine, and of course tinge of nostalgia
Van Halen
2/5
Although there is the odd moment - this isn't for me
Laura Nyro
3/5
Never heard of this artist before - an interesting enjoyable sort of timeless album
LCD Soundsystem
3/5
I was vaguely familiar with North American Scum before - which i think is a great song. Otherwise wasn't really familiar with this band, and happy to make their acquaintance
Gary Numan
3/5
A pleasure to listen to this. Coherent exploration of a sound - cold, mechanical nostalgo-futuristic. I was only familiar with Cars (which was played to death on TV when I was a kids) so glad to hear the rest of the album
Led Zeppelin
4/5
A classic of course - can't really review it neutrally as I have the vinyl and have listened to it repeatedly, though not for a while. Not sure my 52 year old self likes it quite as much as my 17 year old self did, but it is still pretty good.
Gang Of Four
3/5
I was aware Gang of Four existed, but didn't know anything about them and had never listened to any of their stuff. Sounds like it was groundbreaking then - a little dated now. But I enjoyed listening to this - they have their own sound.
Blur
3/5
I remember a lot of this in the background in the 90s and didn't mind hearing it now. It was OK
Brian Wilson
1/5
I just don't like the Beach Boys and I don't like this. There is the odd OK moment - but those slide whistles - jeez!
The B-52's
3/5
Rock Lobster was huge in Australia in the 80s - it was everywhere all the time. We covered in my high school band of course. However the none of the rest of this album made any impact at all for some reason. So I was interested to listen to them, and thought this wasn't bad at all.
Joy Division
3/5
Interesting to get to this, which had never attracted my attention before - given that it doesn't have their bigger songs. I found it atmospheric, and rewarding for multiple listenings
Madonna
3/5
It was OK - but Madonna isn't really my taste
Simple Minds
3/5
Another band where I only knew the hits and had never really listened to a full album. I didn't mind this, they've carved out their own coherent sound, and those singles such as Promised... are pretty good.
Steve Earle
2/5
American country cliches lyrical and musical - not for me
Black Sabbath
3/5
Pretty good for what it was - never listened to it before
The Stooges
3/5
I love the Stooges, but there are better albums
Genesis
3/5
There are some beautiful moments, and some pretty cringe-worthy dated moments as well (Battle of Epping Forest). Interesting, but something I would have listened to of my own accord - which is why we do this I suppose
Pixies
5/5
When I was a kid, a friend gave me a cassette, with the first half of this album tacked on one side (remember we use to do that to fill-up the 90 minute cassettes). There was no track listing, no credit, no information at all to explain what was leaping out of the speakers at me. They might have told me it was a friend's band's demo - how could I know? In some ways I feel sorry that mysteries like this denied to kids nowadays by the everpresent internet. I love the Pixies, everything about them, and they are even better live. Who else has this sharp crackly sound, unique worldview. Haven't come across Doolittle on this list yet, but it will get a 5 too!
Rufus Wainwright
3/5
Beautiful compositions, interesting production etc, but that voice for an hour is a bit much for me - too much, too rich
fIREHOSE
3/5
Had never heard of this band or record before. Didn't mind it at all, but not sure I'd bother to go back. Slightly rough, ragged texture appealed to me, In My mind was pretty good
The Kinks
3/5
I didn't realise David Watts was a cover. For me, the Kinks have always been a band in the margins, not quite the Beatles, not quite Bowie, not quite this not quite that. But always so English. They still seem like that, but there were some good tracks on this album.
Incredible Bongo Band
2/5
Good for background while working - but seriously - does not belong here, even given the extent to which it was sampled. The point of sampling is to make gold out of obscure things like this
Flamin' Groovies
2/5
Converse to some other reviews, I think this is a fantastic name that the group doesn't really live up to. Bog ordinary garage rock really
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
3/5
Reminds me of long car trips. It is a classic, but not an amazing one
Black Sabbath
3/5
I'm new to Black Sabbath - for some reason I missed them when I was a kid despite loving Zeppelin, the Stooges etc. I found this album surprisingly good. Will probably go back to it
Funkadelic
3/5
Enjoyed this a lot
The Isley Brothers
3/5
Listening to the interview, I was intrigued to hear that Jimi Hendrix played with them for a while. Look up Testify parts 1 & 2 on YouTube, also features James Brown I think. A lot more soul that this record which was OK as background, but overall felt a bit flat to me
Carole King
4/5
Clearly a significant album that belongs on this list. Of course, I knew many of the songs, even though I have never listened to the album from beginning to end before - probably because I saw it as to MOR for me. Which it is a bit, but I still enjoyed it
The Cramps
3/5
Raw, weird and pioneering - liked it
3/5
I've heard of them, but never listened to anything. It was OK
John Grant
4/5
I had never heard of this album, this artist or anything to do with him. So a real delight to find something I really enjoyed, even to the extent of recommending it to my 18 year old daughter. Beautiful production, lyrics which are clever without being annoying, and some real hooks. A find.
JAY Z
2/5
Really don't like this - Jay-Z strikes me as an rapper with pretty limited skills, stuck on boring obvious content. Don't understand his status
Machito
3/5
Bright and splashy, exactly what you'd expect from this. I'll take it
OutKast
3/5
Although long, it was a great soundtrack to work to today. Knew the hits of course, but never listened to the whole album. Generally pretty good - I enjoyed the variety
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
3/5
It's Elvis Costello, so generally OK for me. But not an album that I had listened to before and I didn't hear any hits
Jeff Buckley
3/5
I remember this album being huge amongst my peers in Sydney in the mid-90s, but I only knew his cover of Hallelujah. I enjoyed this.
Adele
3/5
OK, but not for me
Willie Nelson
3/5
Nice - I like the sparse clean arrangements
Gotan Project
3/5
I didn't mind this as sort of interesting background music, but it does seem an odd choice for this list. I think you could die without having heard it.
Mike Ladd
3/5
Never heard of him, interesting production, didn't mind it
Iron Butterfly
3/5
First-time listening to the whole album, though knew the title track of course. A lot of boomer rock noodling, but My Mirage was pretty good
Stevie Wonder
4/5
I like Stevie Wonder - but never listened to this album in total. While some parts are a bit slick, and others a bit dated, overall it is pretty fantastic. There's also a lot to take in - I'll be coming back to this
Red Snapper
3/5
Not sure why this album is on the list? It's pleasant to listen to, like I am at an expensive restaurant. But not much more than that
Miles Davis
3/5
Old-school Miles Davis, it's good. Does raise questions for me about the scope of this list - should straight classical albums have a place on it too?
Public Enemy
5/5
This and 'It Takes a Nation of Millions' are my favourite rap albums. I love the production, the flow, the attitude. The claims of anti-semitism are concerning - but I don't hear them here.
The Black Crowes
2/5
I'm not sure why you wouldn't just listen to the Stones?
Justice
3/5
I had never heard of the band or the album. I thought it was OK
Tina Turner
3/5
Interesting time capsule!
Bruce Springsteen
3/5
I thought I'd hate it, but it was OK.
The Jam
5/5
One of my favourite albums - these guys are tight!
The xx
3/5
Hadn't heard of The XX before - though VCR and a couple of the other songs were familiar to me. I thought the album started strong, particularly liked 'Islands', but then fades away. The space I liked initially sees them melt into the background. 'Infinity' is pretty close to 'Wicked Game'. All up, happy to be introduced to The XX
3/5
Pretty good - more raucous and less music hall than I expected. Brainwashed stood out.
The Modern Lovers
4/5
Shout out to my university friend Steven who put me on to Kurt Vonnegut and The Modern Lovers in the 90s. I've loved them ever since.
Queen
2/5
I just don't like Queen, they grate on me. I appreciate the talent, I admire Freddie's chutzpah and attitude, but I just can't stand the music
Pixies
5/5
Top 10 of all time for me. Everything about this album is perfect. I still get the chills at their interplay in No 13 Baby
The Pretty Things
3/5
Not bad sixties psychedelia - didn't mind it
Cyndi Lauper
3/5
Heard the hits a million times of course - but never the whole album. So that was interesting. Quite liked the heavy 80's vibe.
Common
2/5
Never heard of Common. For me, this was a little dull
Led Zeppelin
3/5
Strange - I'm pretty familiar with albums 1 - 4 , but for some reason have never listened to this one. It's pretty good, but not sure it contains the hits the other ones do.
The Byrds
3/5
So You Want to be a Rockstar is a great song - simultaneously bright an cynical. And the other tracks aren't bad for this style and time.
John Lee Hooker
3/5
Didn't mind this - though agree with other reviewers wondering whether this could be seen to be a 'watered down' record, with perhaps other earlier tracks having a stronger claim to inclusion
Neil Young
3/5
I hadn't listened to this album before. I liked the rawness of this album, and it grew on me more after a few repeats. Borrowed Tune is pretty bold - never heard an artist do this openly before!
Kanye West
2/5
Music is OK, but not amazing and Kanye is too annoying for me. I don't get it
Richard Hawley
3/5
An album and artist I'd never heard of before. Fairly pleasant I suppose, not sure about having to listen to it before I die though
David Bowie
4/5
Golden years is a 4 by itself - and the rest of the album is pretty good. Not his best, but pretty good
Pentangle
3/5
Late 60's English folk music? I assumed that I would hate this album - but actually really enjoyed it - particularly the track Sally Go Round the Roses. I would never have listened to this album of my own volition, thus the value of this project.
LCD Soundsystem
3/5
I was listening to NASA recordings from space before this - they went together well. A new album for me which I enjoyed.
Pretenders
3/5
I agree with one of the other reviews here in that one of the great things about this project is hearing albums, when you are only aware of the hits and singles. This album is a perfect example of this. I really enjoyed it, and will definitely go back to the Pretenders.
Massive Attack
4/5
I haven't listened to this for ages. It was everywhere for a while - too much then. But it's actually a great album and I was happy for it to pop up here.
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
2/5
Too many Neil Young Albums
Christine and the Queens
3/5
I appreciate having something outside of US/UK artists on the list, and didn't mind this. But didn't find it distinctive either
Dennis Wilson
3/5
This was better and more interesting that I thought it would be given the Beach Boys connection. Like the Beach Boys with the annoying elements removed and replaced with something grittier
Creedence Clearwater Revival
3/5
Nice and swampy - I enjoyed this album, which I hadn't heard before - only Bad Moon Rising.
The Beach Boys
2/5
I don't get the Beach Boys. Yes this is better than (not as terrible as) Kokomo, but it still seems sentimental, twee and juvenile to me, with an undercurrent of incel self-absorption. Yes, God Only Knows is a pretty good song, but it doesn't get this album over the line for me. Comparisons with any Beatles album are ludicrous.
The Chemical Brothers
4/5
Yep, these guys do it for me. It pumps along, but there's enough weirdness to keep it interesting.
Stephen Stills
3/5
It's well produced and there are some beautiful moments - but on the whole not outstanding for me
The Verve
3/5
Another album from which I'd only heard the hits (a lot) before this project. It was OK, though not sure I'd bother going back to it
Spiritualized
3/5
First time listen for me - I didn't mind this as interesting background music
The Smiths
5/5
I love this album, and it is etched into my brain from my youth. Whatever Morrissey is now doesn't change that. Wry, bittersweet and a strong sense of time, place and state of mind.
Big Brother & The Holding Company
3/5
It was OK - bit of history I suppose
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
4/5
I love Nick Cave - especially live - no one should miss the chance to see him as he is intense. I don't listen to his records as much as I used to, and somehow hadn't come across this one before. Although not my favourite Nick Cave album, it's pretty good!
The Go-Betweens
5/5
This album has particular resonance for me - both from it being a part of my youth, but also because it captures something about being Australian.
David Bowie
5/5
Even though I prefer other Bowie albums (slightly) this one still rates!
Red Hot Chili Peppers
3/5
They polarise people don't they! I liked them a lot when I was young - and there are some nice passages here. I can understand the criticisms but aren't going to join in the pile-on
Bruce Springsteen
3/5
I enjoyed this stripped-down sound more than the other Springsteen albums on this list
Travis
3/5
Another band I've known of for ages, but never listened to any of their work. This album was OK, even if it strayed into Coldplay and then Radiohead territory at times.
Lloyd Cole And The Commotions
5/5
I have loved this album ever since it slid into my consciousness as a teenager. As one of the other reviews here says - like swimming in autumn. Beautiful
Ryan Adams
3/5
For some reason, I have never listened to this album before, or consciously listened to any song by Ryan Adams before - thought I've heard the Bryan Adams story. However a number of the tracks sounded familiar to me, and all in all, I thought this was pretty good
Nirvana
5/5
This is my 252nd album - I don't think I've seen as many 5/5 reviews yet, or as few 1s & 2s. I agree, No arguing about this album's place on the list
OutKast
3/5
It's OK - though so fresh so long
New Order
2/5
Pretty ordinary
Elton John
3/5
I can hear the talent, but I just cannot connect with this. I have the same response in relation to Queen or the Beach Boys. Not sure if this is a fair comment, but I sense something phony or inauthentic about them.
XTC
3/5
Dear God is a beautiful ambitious song - hard to believe that they almost left it off! And the rest of the album is not too bad. Definitely original
The Doors
5/5
I'm going to ignore the haters on this one - I think this is a classic album. Such a unique sound, and great songs. I loved this when I was 15 and I love it now.
The Mothers Of Invention
3/5
I like the fact that this album exists - though not sure how much I want to listen to it again!
Goldfrapp
3/5
I liked this, and agree that sounds like the soundtrack to a James Bond movie that doesn't exist
Fugees
3/5
I never liked the covers, seem hokey to me. However, having never listened to the whole album before, it was more interesting than I expected
Bob Dylan
3/5
It was OK, I thought the different style of production worked well for Dylan at this stage - but not sure I'd return to listen again in a hurry
Violent Femmes
5/5
This is such a raw honest album that captures something of what it is like to be a teenage boy. I loved it then (on vinyl) and it still sounds great
Leonard Cohen
3/5
Like finding this on vinyl in a house you've rented in the country, in a valley, with lots of dark wood and 70s furniture, listening to it while it's rainy outside, and you're flipping through old magazines.
Mudhoney
3/5
I always had this strange feeling that I should like this band more than I actually do? Having said that - it's OK
Jethro Tull
3/5
Interesting to finally listen to this album. I knew the guy played flute standing on one leg, and over the years I've seen a million copies in 2nd hand record shops - it's a pretty distinctive cover! It was better than I expected.
The Yardbirds
3/5
I didn't mind this - an artefact of its time that still carries some feeling now!
Tito Puente
3/5
Happy to listen to a Tito Puente album. I love the brass, the cross rhythms, the 'rrrrrr' at the end of phrases, but it does lead me to wonder where the boundaries of this list lie? What is in and what is out?
Röyksopp
2/5
I agree with the other reviewers - starts off OK, but then becomes a bit boring. With that name, and coming from the Arctic, I thought they'd be more interesting
Terence Trent D'Arby
3/5
Not sure I needed to hear this again
Merle Haggard
3/5
A straight up and down country album - if that is what you are after
T. Rex
3/5
First time listening to a T-Rex album all the way through. It seems like a solid proto-Bowie sound and I may well come back to it
Creedence Clearwater Revival
3/5
Ramble Tamble rocks. There are some other good tracks, some played to death and a few duds. And I love the cover, especially the dude on the bike!
Wire
3/5
A nice tight sound
Ramones
5/5
So great, one of my favourites. It either works for you or it doesn't, there's no explaining it!
Madness
3/5
I'm a fan of the hits, haven't listened to their full albums much. There is some filler I think
The Allman Brothers Band
1/5
So boring - possibly the most boring album so far....I can't stand this pointless blues noodling
Kacey Musgraves
3/5
Pleasant - especially the first few songs, but then it seemed to fade away a bit
Tom Waits
5/5
Favourite album from a favourite artist. Like the Ramones, who I listened to a few albums ago, he polarises listeners, and that's OK. You either buy into the world he has created over the decades, or you don't.
Slayer
3/5
Does the job when you feel like some thrash metal (if I have the right sub-genre)
Robbie Williams
2/5
Kind of superficial I think? Didn't resonate with me
Frank Sinatra
3/5
Pleasant enough I suppose - I think the Stan Getz albums are a better collaboration
Deep Purple
3/5
I hadn't heard this album before (had a copy of Machine Head on cassette when I was a kid). There are some great riffs in here, possibly a track or two I would go back too - eg Into the Fire.
Deep Purple
2/5
Too much - I like Deep Purple, but I don't need this
Laibach
3/5
Weird and interesting enough to earn it's place on the list I think. I enjoyed it.
ABBA
3/5
Weird listening to a whole ABBA album and not recognising a song. I'm not usually a fan, but this was better than I thought it would be.
Lynyrd Skynyrd
3/5
Never listened to this album before, and really only knew this band from Sweet Home Alabama. Thought it was pretty good, and might even revisit a few songs like Poison Whiskey.
Beatles
3/5
With 'run for your life little girl' and now 'you can't do that' I'm wondering if John Lennon was not such a nice guy, and perhaps had some issues... Otherwise there are some great songs, but also some filler on this. Like other reviewers, I prefer the later albums
Soft Cell
2/5
As for lots of other reviewers - I like Tainted Love, but the rest of it is kind of painful
Steely Dan
3/5
the music equivalent of an aperol spritzer - its OK
Brian Eno
3/5
Is was OK - though generally it seemed to pass through my mind without leaving much of a trace
Alice Cooper
2/5
I thought this was pretty flat, and I Love the Dead was gratuitous - try hard.
Nirvana
4/5
Need to leave room for Nevermind, so giving it a 4. I'd not heard the whole album before - just seen clips here and there. It's very good
Traffic
3/5
A little dull - lot of noodling
The Monks
4/5
I signed up to this for such albums. Never heard of this before - fascinating back story, and I enjoyed the tight but primitive sound. I own a couple of the Nuggets garage rock compilations on vinyl, and the Monks would definitely fit on those. And you can definitely hear them as precursors to lots of great bands like VU, Stooges, Pixies etc
Def Leppard
3/5
I will give this credit for being what it is and not trying to be anything else - not that I will listen to it again
George Michael
3/5
Faith was massive when I finished school in 1987 - I hated it. More receptive to it now, but still is not really my thing.
Air
3/5
I think this album is very effective as a soundtrack to the film, and creates an eerie melancholic mood.
Jerry Lee Lewis
3/5
Interesting, like historically, but not something I'll listen to again
Fleetwood Mac
3/5
I must have seen the Tusk video with the marching bands hundreds of times when I was a kid, but had never listened to the album. It's a strange collection.
Alexander 'Skip' Spence
4/5
Interesting, inconsistent some freaky stuff here. Never heard of this guy before - this is what I signed up for
Derek & The Dominos
3/5
I enjoyed this as an archetypal 70s album
Adele
3/5
Never listened to the whole album - there was more to it than I thought there would be, and I didn't mind the cover of Lovesong. Not that I think I need to go back to it.
Soul II Soul
2/5
Bar Muzak from the 90s - not sure this is essential?
Sonic Youth
5/5
I listened to almost nothing but sonic youth for a couple of years in my twenties - their albums are hardwired. Takes me back
Jorge Ben Jor
3/5
Why not? Strange how many reviewers have a problem with it being in Portuguese. I enjoyed this, a nice change
Eric Clapton
3/5
It was OK - nothing special
Supergrass
3/5
I've known about Supergrass for ages, but was never impelled to listen to them. I found this album pretty good, but don't feel that I was missing anything particularly
Radiohead
4/5
I've always stood at a distance from Radiohead - but I liked the slightly experimental nature of this
Eminem
3/5
Well it doesn't really work for a 50 year old - but there are some clever rhymes there
Dire Straits
3/5
Pleasant - Sultans of Swing is OK - but overall bland
Missy Elliott
3/5
Work It! - a great song
Beck
4/5
I haven't listened to this since the late 90s, when it was everywhere, all the time, in Sydney. I enjoyed the nostalgia and I think it generally holds up
The United States Of America
4/5
I love this - a fascinating album I've never heard of before, with some crazy and weird music that sheds light on artists that came afterwards.
Sonic Youth
5/5
I listened to this album for about 2 years solidly in my 20s - the sound spoke to me - and it still does.
Primal Scream
3/5
OK - but pretty overrated. I recall 'Loaded' from back in the day.
The Dave Brubeck Quartet
3/5
Take 3 - an important album I guess, but a little overheard and feels a bit dry to me
Frank Zappa
4/5
It's a rich brew
Crosby, Stills & Nash
4/5
Such beautiful harmonies
FKA twigs
3/5
Atmospheric, but didn't really make an impression on me
The Streets
3/5
It's an odd fish this album - many reasons I shouldn't like it, but I do.
Prince
3/5
I appreciate it, its significance, but it doesn't really move me
Songhoy Blues
4/5
Enjoyed this. First time for me for this group, though I have earlier Tinariwen album which is similar. I don't understand why people complain or downgrade records that aren't in English?! Climb out of your burrow. Isn't music meant to transcend language, and isn't the point of this project to discover new stuff?
The Undertones
3/5
A band I've known of for years, but never really listened to. Interesting for historical reasons, but I think the Ramones do this better.
Otis Redding
4/5
Well - it's Otis. Terrible cover art though
Todd Rundgren
3/5
An artist whose name is very familiar to me, but I've never happened to listen to any of his music. At least not intentionally. I didn't mind the 70s soft rock / yacht rock, but I can't imagine searching it out in the future.
The La's
4/5
I've never heard of this band, though 'There She Goes' sounded familiar. I enjoyed them - original take on britpop.
R.E.M.
3/5
Some good bits, but there are better REM albums - eg Life's Rich Pageant
The Magnetic Fields
3/5
Having an album this long is pretty insane - I respect the ambition and didn't mind the experience. But I don't think I'll be going back to it.
Talk Talk
3/5
It was OK but not remarkable
Ride
3/5
Was aware of Ride, but hadn't listened to them prior. This genre appeals to me generally, however I'm not sure I'll revisit this particular album
Beastie Boys
5/5
I've loved this since it came out - no objective review from me for this
Jane Weaver
3/5
Never heard of this - kind of interesting, but not enough to revisit. Not sure if this has to be heard before death
Franz Ferdinand
3/5
Interesting to hear the album behind the hit - and to hear what that hit borrowed from the Led Zeppelin song Trampled Underfoot.
Echo And The Bunnymen
3/5
Echo & the Bunnymen have always existed on the finge of my attention. Glad to finally listen to an album, but not sure there's enough for me to go back to it. Very evocative of the 80s
Sam Cooke
3/5
A solid soul performance
Taylor Swift
3/5
I enjoyed that more than I thought I would, given how far away from the target market I am. And enjoyed listening to the Ryan Adams cover of the whole album. That is pretty unusual
The Killers
3/5
Didn't really work for me - seemed like a pastiche of Interpol and other groups
Super Furry Animals
3/5
I didn't mind this at all - I was fearing the worst reading the Pet Sounds references in the wikipedia entry, but it was OK in the end
The Who
3/5
Some good songs, but I'm not sure what to make of the Who - why pissing?
Arrested Development
3/5
a little preachy and clunky for me
Buddy Holly & The Crickets
3/5
I thought I would find this dull - but instead there was an clear eerie feeling to these simple songs - like listening through a David Lynch filter
Caetano Veloso
3/5
I enjoyed this, something different, sounded fresh.
Dexys Midnight Runners
3/5
At the time I went well beyond saturation point with Come on Eileen. And his voice + violins would usually turn me off. However, overall it was better than I expected
The Damned
3/5
It seems I had, unfairly, written these guys off as a novelty act. There was some interesting stuff in here
The Boo Radleys
3/5
I had only vaguely heard of this band before - not sure why they weren't on my radar as I think I would have been pretty into them at the time. I guess they didn't have a strong presence in Australia back in the day. Anyway, another introduction through this App to a band I hadn't listened to before, and who I quite like.
Donald Fagen
3/5
Nice cover, good background music to work by
Curtis Mayfield
4/5
A voice that is strong and fragile at the same time - I've always loved Curtis, but hadn't come across this album before.
Neil Young
3/5
While it's possible there is an excessive amount of Neil Young on the list, I didn't mind this album. The plonking bass and ragged guitar sits well with his plaintive voice
George Michael
3/5
More substance to this than I thought there would be
Incubus
3/5
Had only vaguely heard of them before - a 90s time capsule for me. Music is OK, lyrics and vocals a bit lame
The Doors
5/5
I've loved the Doors for ages - don't care what anyone says! This is not quite their best album, but with Peace Frog and Queen of the Highway etc it still gets a 5 from me
Bad Brains
3/5
Weird- seen the T shirts so many more times than heard the band. Interesting sounds
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
3/5
That slid past nice and easy 70s style. I really only know Tom Petty as a shadowy character on the margins, and from the hit 'Don't Come Around Here No More' which I saw as a kid and always found intriguing
T. Rex
3/5
It has hard to avoid a close comparison with Ziggy Stardust era Bowie. And how much does Buick Mackane sound like Evie by the Easybeats? Notwithstanding these thoughts, I enjoyed this as an album by a band that has their own sound and know what to do with it.
Leftfield
3/5
Background music, but OK in that role. Seemed like a strong 90s Bristol sound to me.
Le Tigre
3/5
I liked the B-52s but rougher and more political sound. I was recommending Deceptacon to my daughter - but she told me it has been 'tik-tokked' - sigh
TV On The Radio
3/5
Never heard of these guys before - it was OK, but not sure it caught my interest enough to revisit
Jane's Addiction
4/5
I listened to Jane's Addition intensely for a period in my twenties, then hardly at all since. It was good to re-discover them. Ocean Size is a great song
Gang Starr
3/5
Enjoyed this - had heard tracks before - but not the whole album. I think it earns its place
Rush
3/5
Interesting to listen to as a cultural artefact, but really it's all a bit silly?
4/5
I loved ABC when Poison Arrow came out, wasn't even a teenager. I still enjoy the polished melodrama of this album.
Jean-Michel Jarre
3/5
I enjoyed the 70s future-nostalgia vibe of this. Didn't realise this was where Limmy took the Falconhoof backing music from (which made it a little hard to take that bit seriously)
The Strokes
3/5
I understand why this album is on this list, and it is 'adjacent' to music I normally like - but there is something that holds me back from really getting into it
Stevie Wonder
4/5
Great album, great cover
Buena Vista Social Club
4/5
I don't understand how you could embrace this project, then write a record off because the lyrics aren't in English? Can't you enjoy the melody of another language? I'd rather that than listen to boring banal lyrics I did understand. Anyway, with that off my chest, I like this record with its gentle, but complex harmonies and rhythms.
SAULT
3/5
Less preachey than I had feared (apart from the interludes), and more enjoyable than I had anticipated
Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
4/5
I enjoyed this album much more than I thought I would, the melodies grew on me with a few listens, and I loved the 'quaint' conversations with that Southern formality
The Cars
4/5
Just What I Needed! Perfect tight 80s new wave pop
Belle & Sebastian
3/5
Some seductive melodies here, even if the vocal affections can be wearing. Another group I was aware of, but hadn't really listened to until now. Overall I enjoyed it
Paul Simon
3/5
A strange one for me - I didn't mind, though I am not a Paul Simon fan generally
Elvis Costello
4/5
Alison, Watching the Detectives - classic timeless songs
Public Enemy
5/5
I bought this on vinyl back in the day and have always loved everything about this. The dense almost industrial sampling, Chuck D is a fantastic lyricist, Flavor Flav is the perfect foil for him. And they are talking about big issues.
MGMT
3/5
Was too busy with young kids etc to pay much attention to MGMT when this came out. It's OK, and I do recognise some tracks from the general ambience
The Youngbloods
3/5
Never heard of The Youngbloods before. It struck me as pretty generic 60s music to me, and those jazz noodling tracks are awful. Darkness, Darkness is good though, and rescues this from a 2 rating
Bonnie "Prince" Billy
3/5
The album grew on me, though harder to appreciate on a bright Sydney summer day compared to a dark Vermont winter
Sparks
3/5
Peculiar for sure - hadn't really listened to Sparks before. Enjoyed it as part of this project, but not sure I'll go back.
Robert Wyatt
3/5
Weird, peculiar - never heard of him before. but happy to explore for a couple of spins
Cocteau Twins
3/5
Shimmering sounds, very evocative of the 90s
Crowded House
3/5
Beautiful melodies, clever songwriting, but doesn't really touch me for some reason - do I feel it is too mainstream? Although, as an Australian, the hits have been all around me for a long time, I've never listened to the entire album - was happy to do that
Supergrass
4/5
I didn't pay these guys enough attention at the time - this record is pretty good!
Sister Sledge
3/5
Very disco , of the smooth kind- Kathy Sledge has an amazing voice, I enjoyed this
The Avalanches
5/5
A brilliant original album which hasn't dated since I first heard it over 20 years ago. The videos for both Frontier Psychiatrist and Since I Left You are also brilliant and worth checking out.
Calexico
3/5
It's OK - has a certain vibe
Joy Division
4/5
Strange, that despite the ubiquitous artwork, I didn't know any of the songs on this album except She's Lost Control. Pretty good though
Lucinda Williams
4/5
It's a great album - I've loved it since I first heard it years ago, even though this sort of Americana is not usually to my taste. I think she has an intriguing voice, writes catchy tunes, and writes with a direct, original style.
Cornershop
3/5
Was only familiar with the remix of Asha - didn't mind the album, something a little different
Malcolm McLaren
3/5
Interesting cultural artefact, so I'll give it a 3 for that - but the best parts of this record were those he ripped off from African and other original musicians
A Tribe Called Quest
3/5
Head bobbing and breezy - it's ok
Aerosmith
3/5
It was OK - Walk this way is a great song (though Run DMC made it better)
Bee Gees
3/5
What was that? I would never have guessed the Bee Gees and I had no idea about their pre-disco era. I'll give it a 3 due to the unexpectedness of it
De La Soul
5/5
Love this - brings back memories and a good mood
Blondie
4/5
I knew the hits of course, but the rest of the album was great too. Classic
Blur
4/5
Although Song 2 is overexposed, it is still a fantastic song which I'm happy to hear. And I didn't realise how good the rest of the album is. A mix of sharp songwriting and experimenting with textures.
Sarah Vaughan
3/5
It's not my thing, especially scat singing - but I suppose respect is due
Suzanne Vega
3/5
It's OK
Keith Jarrett
3/5
I owned this album 30 years ago in the form of a pirate cassette tape from Bali - which demonstrates a certain status. I guess it is jazz in the miscellaneous sense. Anyway, I was happy to hear it here.
Manic Street Preachers
3/5
Another band whose name I've known for years but never listened to. They were OK, but didn't catch my ear enough for a return visit
Eels
3/5
Another album which I have been aware of for ages (that striking cover!), recognised the hits, but never felt compelled to seek out an listen to. It is of its time and a with a creepy feel in places. But also some good parts.
The Last Shadow Puppets
3/5
Hadn't heard of this project or album - it was probably fun to record, but not as good as the Arctic Monkeys.
Bert Jansch
3/5
Pleasant enough
The Louvin Brothers
3/5
Pure stripped-down old-time country. Enjoyed this
Isaac Hayes
4/5
It's a classic - I have it on vinyl. Contrary to other reviews here, I am into soundtrack albums, often the commission seems to give the artist more commission to range
Frank Ocean
3/5
A big artist and record that passed me by at the time because I was busy being the parent of young children. I found it grew on me with a few listens
3/5
Moments of interest amongst a lot of noodling
Jeru The Damaja
2/5
It was OK 90's rap, but one star less for Da Bichez - a bit over this stuff
The Mothers Of Invention
3/5
Pretty fascinating historical artifact. Sure, it has dated, but I enjoy the anarchy, spite and inventiveness. And some of it is still pretty good.
Sugar
3/5
I had completely forgotten this album, but as soon as I saw the cover and started playing it, I was whisked back to the lounge rooms of countless share houses in the 90s. Something about this music doesn't stick for me though
Grateful Dead
2/5
Coincidentally the podcast 'A History of Rock Music in 500 Songs' released an episode on Dark Star while I was listening to this. The podcast makes the Grateful Dead sound interesting - if fact, seems like dull hippy noodling to me of the worst kind. The podcast says that you can't really appreciate the Grateful Dead unless you hear them live, while you're tripping. But you could say that about any band? Saved from my first '1' rating by the Feedback son.
The Roots
3/5
It was OK - nothing struck me
3/5
There's some good songs in there - but how can I rate something this long - over 2 hrs!
Siouxsie And The Banshees
3/5
Of course, I have been aware of them since the 80s, but never really listened to them. Perhaps now it is too late for them to grab me - but was OK
4/5
10am - too much
10pm - loved it
This is not background music
Radiohead
4/5
Radiohead hadn't really got through to me before - but I like this quite a bit
Little Richard
3/5
Historical, but you can feel his energy blasting through
Bob Marley & The Wailers
4/5
I have always loved Bob Marley - he's a huge talent. This album has some amazing tracks (Natural Mystic, Exodus and Jamming), but also unfortunately some annoying tunes (Three Little Birds) that stop me giving it a 5. It is a little over-exposed in the beach bars of SE Asia, but you can't blame him for that.
Marty Robbins
3/5
On the one hand, it's a cool cover, I like his voice, the storytelling, the harmonies, and subtle arrangements. On the other hand, I can't help wondering if this is the sort of thing that has fed into and built up the US gun-culture over the years?
Culture Club
3/5
I feel this album has earned its place on this list, and I didn't mind hearing it again after such a long time, I don't think I'll be listening to it again
5/5
As some other reviewers have commented, this album is buried in my subconscious having listened to it since I was a little kid. I still love it
Traffic
3/5
Interesting to hear where that song Feelin' Alright comes from. Otherwise it was OK, but can't see myself revisiting
Cat Stevens
3/5
This album really evokes my childhood in the 70s - it's deeply embedded. It has been a long time since I listened to it, and I enjoyed it. There is some substance here.
Run-D.M.C.
3/5
I appreciate the simplicity of the production, and historical importance
Kraftwerk
4/5
Some about this 70s german synth music draws me in - like soviet sci-fi. And it is one of the great album covers
The Libertines
3/5
It's OK. Had to put aside the anti-celebrity bias. Probably would have enjoyed it more in my 20s, which was in the 90s.
The White Stripes
4/5
For whatever reason (young kids I suppose) I never paid this album that much attention when it was released, though Seven Nation Army was hard to escape of course. I missed something - it's a great collection. For the record, I love the drumming on this album.
Deerhunter
3/5
Never heard of this group. The album grew on me after a few listens, the track 'Revival' in particular.
Green Day
3/5
It's tight and well produced - but I'm not the market for it
Dead Kennedys
4/5
This band still cuts through - Holiday in Cambodia and California Uber Alles are such great tracks
R.E.M.
4/5
It's very evocative of the late 80s and there are some classic tracks
The Mars Volta
4/5
I've known of this band for ages but never really listened to them. And I don't usually like this sort of music. But these tracks grew on me after 2-3 listens
Marvin Gaye
5/5
Long time listener, yet it still gives me chills
Ian Dury
3/5
A strange one - novelty album well past its use by date? Or a sort of pioneer. There's a fair amount of 'ewww'. I only knew his couple of hits. Almost a 2, because I didn't really enjoy listening to it - but scrapes in with a 3 due to originality
Bonnie Raitt
3/5
Pretty smooth, she has a great voice, good to work to
X-Ray Spex
3/5
Pretty raw, lot of energy but those vocals were hard work sometimes
Julian Cope
4/5
Better than I expected, very long of course, but there was a lot in there. Came to this with minimal knowledge and was pleasantly surprised.
Brian Eno
4/5
Interesting album, and one I'd not listened to before. Hard to believe it was released in 1973, could have been yesterday. There is a lot of depth here, though lyrics and vocals can occasionally grate.
Faust
3/5
Quite enjoyed this. I suspect King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard don't mind a bit of Faust
Destiny's Child
3/5
Heard the singles of course, but never listened to the album. I enjoyed it much more than I thought I would. I would prepare for something slick and digestible, but there was depth and complexity
The Slits
3/5
Known of the Slits for ages, but never sought them out. Expecting typical UK 70s punk, but this subverted those expectations
Arcade Fire
3/5
It came out at a time when I was too busy with kids etc to pay attention to music. Parts flickered with recognition - was OK
CHIC
4/5
Would have been a 3, but + 1 due to Bernard Edwards bass - he is awesome
Simon & Garfunkel
4/5
Somehow have never listened to this album before. I knew and appreciated the hits, but the other songs are great too. Even the odd lyrics in songs like At The Zoo have a charm. And at 29mins, it doesn't overstay its welcome.
The Verve
2/5
I found this a bit dreary
The Young Rascals
2/5
Blandish 60s rock - not sure it should be on this list. I had heard the name, but never listened to them. Now I know
Nick Drake
5/5
This is the Nick Drake album that hit me, and it has stuck. Before the internet, one great way to find new music was through film soundtracks - which is how I found this, from the film Dream with the Fishes. Weird thing is I sent it as a recommendation to my daughter who is travelling - and she had just listened to it while sitting next to a river in Slovenia
Butthole Surfers
3/5
Yet another band I feel that I've always known about, but never actually listened to. I enjoyed this - playful and experimental
B.B. King
3/5
Doesn't appeal to me as much as other blues artists - a little smooth perhaps? But OK
The Jesus And Mary Chain
3/5
Nostalgic to hear this album again. Saw them live back in the day, though never a huge fan
Manu Chao
2/5
Almost a 3, but Bongo bong is super- annoying, and I still resent it's omnipresence back in the day. This is the ultimate backpacker album
Elvis Presley
3/5
I never saw myself as an Elvis fan, but I liked this more than I thought I would - wasn't too slick
Joan Armatrading
3/5
I only recalled Drop the Pilot - it's a warm 70s album and her voice is beautiful. I enjoyed it, but not sure there is enough for me to revist
Kanye West
2/5
Kanye makes my skin crawl
The Triffids
5/5
A really beautiful complex accomplished album - for me it captures something essential about growing up in Australia in the '80s. I'm surprised at the harshness of the reviews here - it doesn't translate?
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
3/5
Known the name for ages, but never listened. They were OK, Dragon Queen was pretty good.
Everything But The Girl
3/5
Nice voice - but a bit too smooth for me
Talvin Singh
2/5
Boring. Muzak
Minor Threat
3/5
I agree with the reviewer who noted this as a 'palate cleanser' - following the last couple of fairly bland records I listened to. I wasn't really into this band back in the day, but I like the integrity and intensity now
David Bowie
5/5
In tears she poured out words with a faint voice,
lamenting her sad woe, as when the swan
about to die sings a funereal dirge.
Rocket From The Crypt
2/5
They seem like a party band who would have been fun to see at the time, but not really a seminal release that justifies inclusion on this list. And I agree with the other reviewer about Come See Come Saw being a rip-off of 'Know Your Product' from the Saints. Penalty of one star for that.
Metallica
3/5
60% elemental and classic and 40% questionable in a Spinal Tap sense. Overall I enjoyed it
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
5/5
I love this album - have it on vinyl. Basically what the 1 star and 2 star reviews said about it, I think the opposite
Robert Wyatt
3/5
It had a mood - I didn't mind it
Iron Maiden
3/5
Clearly a classic - even though hard to take seriously after Spinal Tap. I used to love Run to the Hills when I was a kid
Ghostface Killah
2/5
Doesn't do much for me - it all seems a bit hackneyed
Björk
3/5
Nice textures - but for me background music
Grateful Dead
3/5
I've always thought these guys were overrated, but this album is actually OK - pleasant country style
Country Joe & The Fish
3/5
It was OK - document of its time I suppose
ZZ Top
3/5
Enjoyed this more than I thought I would. Had a kind of elemental simplicity - like a southern rock Ramones. I've heard La Grange a million times with no idea of who it was - assumed it was someone like John Lee Hooker
Sufjan Stevens
3/5
Another album I have known about for a long time, but never listened to. I didn't mind it, a little too self conscious for me (I think the Wes Anderson references in other reviews are spot on), but there are some good moments.
3/5
Never heard of them before. I don't mind something experimental like this as a palate-cleanser
Elastica
3/5
Classic Britpop, which I remember from the time, it being everywhere. My ears pricked up at the Stranglers quote from 'Waking Up' - I note that it seems it was the Stranglers' publisher who sued rather than the band, and that they were actually happy with the interpretation and I would agree their views. I think Elastica took a great hook and did something new with it - that is pop!
Nine Inch Nails
3/5
I didn't mind this - interesting texture, though not really my thing.
Frank Sinatra
3/5
Smooth, almost too smooth, but I didn't mind it
Kraftwerk
3/5
I figured I should listen to the German version. I liked the soundscape and the way they say Trans-Oyropa
Rahul Dev Burman
4/5
Pretty crazy, out of left field for this list. A real mix of sounds and influences. I don't know much about Bollywood soundtracks, or where this example sits, however I really enjoyed it!
David Bowie
5/5
"If she says she can do it, she can do it - she don't make false claims" One of my favourite lines in rock music. Classic album from Bowie's prime. I love it
King Crimson
3/5
Another record I've known about for years, seen the cover many times, yet never listened to. The riff from 21st Schizoid Man is fantastic and familar. The rest is OK - I can see the influence on lots of other artists such as Frank Zappa and John Zorn
The Vines
4/5
They are probably a 3, but I'm giving them 4 because they are Australian, and Get Free is awesome
Leonard Cohen
3/5
He knows how to create a mood, and there are some beautiful lines in this album
Van Morrison
2/5
Friends of mine love him, but Van Morrison just doesn't do it for me - especially a live album
Weather Report
2/5
Don't like it - prog rock muzak
The Mamas & The Papas
3/5
Like almost every other reviewer here, I think California Dreamin' carries this record. Though Got A Feelin' is also pretty good. Never listened to a full Mamas and Papas album before
Deee-Lite
2/5
Really? This is very lightweight. Groove is in the heart saturated Sydney bars in the early 90s
The Flying Burrito Brothers
3/5
I wish I had one of those suits - otherwise pleasant twangy music to work to
Queen
2/5
I'm just not buying it - overblown
Shivkumar Sharma
3/5
I think it is outrageous that Spotify has a poxy-new age imposter pretending to be the original album. On the other hand, the original - a crackly version on YouTube is pretty good.
UB40
4/5
This was one of the first albums I started listening to of my own volition as a 12-13 year old, so I can't pretend to review it neutrally. I can accept the criticisms made here, but it still resonates for me.
The Charlatans
2/5
OK - but I agree with many other reviewers - seems a bit mediocre to justify inclusion on this list.
Daft Punk
3/5
As noted in other reviews, starts off ok but becomes repeditive
Morrissey
3/5
Better than I had expected, having assumed that most of the talent in the Smiths was Marr and the others.
Roxy Music
3/5
It does sound a little ahead of its time, and I can hear some Nick Cave stylings in there!
Paul Simon
3/5
Nice - but a bit dull for mine
White Denim
3/5
Not bad. I had never heard of them, but like their southern rock sound.
The Bees
2/5
Never heard of it, and can't see any reason for it to be on this list - even though it is pleasant
Amy Winehouse
4/5
I love the way she uses her voice, and her lyrical twists. Usually I wouldn't go for such retro music, but she takes it somewhere else, in a way that other similar artists couldn't. Such a tragedy the way she was torn apart.
The Pogues
5/5
I love this album - though I have not got into Irish folk generally. It's strange, because the more traditional songs on this album are my favourites. Perhaps I should investigate further.
Arctic Monkeys
4/5
A great album, brilliant and genuine lyrics enhanced by the accent. And it rocks. Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor is one of my favourite tracks ever
The Adverts
3/5
Well - it exists. Although I thought I had a fairly good awareness of this era, I'd never heard of them. Nothing jumps out at me now
Adam & The Ants
3/5
Ant Music and Dog Eat Dog are remembered from childhood. The rest is bonkers enough to be a bit interesting.
Deep Purple
4/5
Album #500 for me! Pity it's not a 5, but still pretty good. Highway Star is a classic. I think Smoke on the Water is the worst song, and is only famous because everyone can play the riff.
My Bloody Valentine
3/5
I have Loveless on vinyl, and it will be getting a 5 when it comes up. I don't feel the same way about this one, but perhaps because I've come to it lately?
Gillian Welch
4/5
I've always loved Revelator, and Everything is Free. Beautiful and sparse. But a whole album in one go is a little bit much for me.
Pink Floyd
4/5
No argument about this album's place on the list. I have a vinyl copy I bought as a kid. But it is a strange beast, some beautifully written bits, some weird creepy bits (which are currently taking over Roger Waters), and overblown parts that have not aged that well. It is out there on its own, and I was happy to listen to it again.
The Waterboys
4/5
I was lucky enough to see the Waterboys in Cork in the late 80s. This is a beautiful album, made with a lot of passion
Ray Price
4/5
I enjoyed this much more than I thought I would. Yes it is old-time country, but there is the slightly cabaret touch that makes it interesting slightly dark.
The Smiths
3/5
Some good songs, but I am more familiar with The Queen is Dead and still prefer it.
Supertramp
3/5
Surprised to hear they were British - assumed US. Rating - feels like rating a piece of furniture or something. They are just there, always have been.
The Rolling Stones
3/5
Not my favourite era, but a nice foreshadowing of what they would become.
Dusty Springfield
4/5
I love her voice, her delivery, phrasing etc. And some great songs and arrangements. I enjoyed this more than I thought I would
Pantera
3/5
Last record 'Dusty in Memphis', then this! But all good - Life's Rich Pageant (haven't had that yet). I knew of Pantera, but hadn't really listened to them before. This was one of those records which 'did what it said on the tin' - but did it well I think.
Pulp
3/5
It's OK
Lauryn Hill
4/5
Not liking the Fugees that much I have never listened to the album, apart from the DooWop single which was hard to escape at the time. I was pleasantly surprised by this - I love the loose rambling feel.
Haircut 100
2/5
I remember the hit, but it seems a strangely insubstantial inclusion?
Portishead
3/5
I liked the textures of this album. Quite different to their other stuff. It was enough to keep me engaged.
Ella Fitzgerald
3/5
Quality of course, but it doesn't really touch me
The Prodigy
3/5
Enjoyed the cyberpunk space ship / post soviet industrial ambience
The Lemonheads
3/5
Nostalgia the main reaction from me. Very 90s Sydney vibes
Jacques Brel
3/5
I like getting these from left field - but can't say I would listen again. I prefer Serge Gainsbourg in this genre
My Bloody Valentine
5/5
It's strange how some albums just hit you. I love this. I saw them play once and am sure they were the loudest band I've ever heard. Swimming in sound
Neil Young
4/5
I thought I knew this album, but actually I had been listening to some kind of compilation (with many of the same tracks). There are some great songs, reminds me of a long car trip we took when the kids were little. Kermit the Frog - not a bad comparison - but it still works for some reason
Björk
4/5
Eerie otherworldiness tempered with love and sensuality
Everything But The Girl
2/5
Pleasant but for me, a little dull
Milton Nascimento
3/5
A good recommendation, something different. I enjoyed the brazillian feel, and the experimentation in some tracks. Exposure to albums like this, which i wouldn't have come across otherwise, is why I am involved in this project.
The Auteurs
2/5
I'd never heard of this band. They seem a bit average to be on this list?
Fishbone
2/5
I saw them once as a youngster and remember being blown away - bass player performed in a towel only? But for mine, this album hasn't really aged well.
American Music Club
3/5
Pleasant Americana - but not much more than that for me.
3/5
Over the course of a few listens this grew on me. As I became accustomed to the quirks, the underlying qualities emerged. Like your eyes upon entering into a dark place.
Pet Shop Boys
3/5
Too cheesy and camp for me, but can understand it would be iconic for some people
The Everly Brothers
3/5
This late 50s rock isn't usually my thing, but the Everly brothers bring something different. Love Hurts is a great track
Waylon Jennings
3/5
I could listen to that on a Sunday afternoon
Paul Simon
3/5
I've always found him a but cute - but there is some great music on this album, and I think he does deserve credit for helping to transmit that beautiful South African music to a wider audience (though of course the original is best!)
Dolly Parton
3/5
Enjoyed the harmonies
Madonna
3/5
Surprised how much I liked this - reminded me a little of Bjork
Radiohead
3/5
An album I'd heard about a million times but never extended myself to listen to it. It was OK
Sepultura
3/5
Classy and elegant
Janis Joplin
3/5
I enjoyed this, even though familiar the songs are still raw and powerful.
ABBA
4/5
A huge nostalgia rush for me, having received the LP for christmas as a kids when it was released. I haven't really been an ABBA fan since, but these songs are better than I thought they would be.
Turbonegro
3/5
It was pretty good, happy to listen to it, but I don't think it added much to what Stooges, Bowie etc had already done
Penguin Cafe Orchestra
4/5
Interesting album, original, some unexpectedly familiar tunes I didn't know where they came from. This is the sort of album that this project should be uncovering.
Einstürzende Neubauten
4/5
Aware of them (due to Blixa being in the Bad Seeds), seen the t-shirt, never listened to them much before. I dug it, experimental in the best sense. Another album that justifies this project.
Bob Marley & The Wailers
4/5
I have a soft spot for this 70s roots reggae
Aerosmith
3/5
Competent
Alice Cooper
3/5
One of those albums I have never got around to listening to, so only knew the title track. Very different to what I expected - more Zappa less AC/DC. Didn't mind it.
Fairport Convention
3/5
Pleasant - if not really my thing
Magazine
4/5
A great record, some tracks I had heard before without knowing their origin eg Definitive Gaze. They seem like an underrated band to me
3/5
XTC always produce interesting catchy music, but it was a hassle listening to this on YouTube with ads
Ute Lemper
3/5
I've enjoyed other recordings of Ute Lemper singing Kurt Weill - but I agree with other reviewers, there was something a little phony about this.
Joanna Newsom
3/5
I had originally written her off due to her vocal approach - couldn't stand it. But I made myself listen to this album a couple of times, and while it still is not my thing, I can hear what is behind it now
Drive Like Jehu
4/5
Never heard of this band. I thought it was a pretty good record - shades of Sonic Youth.
Pet Shop Boys
3/5
It was OK - of its time
Dinosaur Jr.
4/5
Freak Scene was everywhere when I was a kid in Sydney in the late 80s early 90s - I like the song, but for some reason never pursued this band. There are some great tracks on this 'No Bones', 'Don't' that'll I'll listen to again
Ozomatli
3/5
One of those bands that can get a festival crowd going, but I don't really need to hear records of. Lucky, given they're not on Spotify
Megadeth
3/5
I don't mind these headcleaners popping up occasionally. Not sure I'll bother to go back to it though
Basement Jaxx
3/5
It was OK - just kind of slid through my head without me noticing much
Public Enemy
4/5
Not quite as good as Fear... and It takes... - but, well, it's still PE
Radiohead
4/5
It's pretty good, understand it is iconic, but it kid of slides past me
Roxy Music
4/5
Unexpectedly fantastic - I have always associated them with Bryan Ferry crooning Avalon (which is a great song), but this was something quite different. Will listen again
Killing Joke
3/5
Interesting - another band I've heard of since the 80's but for some reason never listened to. I thought they were pretty good.
My Bloody Valentine
3/5
Pretty good, just not quite as good as Loveless
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
5/5
A great album. Interesting to see how since his personal tragedies, Nick Cave has become a modern-day sage through his Red Hand Files
Leonard Cohen
4/5
What an amazing voice, and beautiful production. I'm reminded of David Bowie's Black Star in the sense of the gravitas of these records released at the end of a star's career/life
Small Faces
3/5
I'm familiar with that cover - from second hand record shops perhaps, it is pretty distinctive. This record is pretty mad, some bits rock, other bits are trippy, then there is the weird narration. 1968 I guess
Sleater-Kinney
4/5
Great album
Madonna
4/5
I enjoyed this album - to songs, the mood the production. Didn't really listen to it at the time, but appreciate it now.
The Afghan Whigs
3/5
Interesting to hear this band, having known of the name for a long time. 'Gentlemen' was my favourite track.
Wild Beasts
3/5
Pleasant enough - nothing stands out.
Björk
4/5
Beautiful and unique
Stephen Stills
3/5
Old Times Good Times featuring Hendrix was my favourite track. Very 70s cruisy album.
Steely Dan
4/5
A classic album - can't go past Reelin' in the Years for my favourite track on this one, though they are all pretty good
Morrissey
3/5
It's OK - but prefer the Smiths - can't see myself going back to it
Dizzee Rascal
4/5
Hadn't listened to this before - good fun - my favourite I Luv U 'Oh well'!
Minutemen
4/5
I respect the idea of this - short bursts of songs, express your idea then get out of there. Favourite tracks Shit from an Old Notebook, The Glory of Man, Storm in my House
Cee Lo Green
3/5
OK - I'll be around was my favourite track
Maxwell
3/5
First hearing, very smooth - possibly too much so? Favourite track Dancewitme
Pavement
4/5
Not sure why I never paid these guys the attention I paid to Sonic Youth, the Pixies etc. It's a great album, favourite tracks are Conduit for Sale, and Jackals, False Grails: The Lonesome Era. It was also interesting to hear Here - which I knew previously as a Tindersticks cover.
Brian Eno
3/5
Interesting as an historial artifact, and for who produced it - but not interesting as music
Mudhoney
3/5
It was OK, and brings back memories of the 90s - but couldn't hear a track that stood out
Love
4/5
Such a great - if inconsistent - group. Best tracks here for me are Seven and Seven Is, and She Comes in Colours.
Emmylou Harris
3/5
Hank and Lefty, or the cover of For No One probably my favourites. I don't naturally gravitate to this type of country, but can still appreciate the beauty of this album
Blood, Sweat & Tears
3/5
A band I seem to always have known of, but never listened to. It wasn't quite what I expected, and quite stranger mix of different music - blues, soul jazz etc Spinning Wheel is pretty good
Hüsker Dü
3/5
I 'kind of' liked Husker Du in the day and still do. Ice Cold Ice is a good track, and they have a cool name.
Nick Drake
3/5
I like it, though could understand a comment from someone who found it a bit smooth. One of These Things First, or Bryter Layter my favourites
Christina Aguilera
3/5
It's a well made album, but pretty self-congratulatory. And was the inspiration for hundreds of Idol, X-Factor yowlers?
Roxy Music
4/5
I really enjoyed this album, which was new to me. Experimental, but great rocking songs. Like Bowie, but different. Favourite tracks, Bitter Sweet & Casanova.
The Human League
4/5
Better than I remembered. Love Action is a classic
Rod Stewart
3/5
I didn't mind it, though not sure I would bother going back to it. Favourite tracks probably My Way of Giving or It's All Over Now
Richard Thompson
3/5
Not being a Folk fan, I enjoyed this more than I thought I would. Favourite tracks - The Calvary Cross and I Went to See the Bright Lights Tonight.
Finley Quaye
3/5
Had only vaguely heard of Finley before this, which is probably about right. Ultra Stimulation was OK
Dion
3/5
So not Celine Dion, another one... it seemed like pretty generic 70s MOR AOR. OK, but nothing stood out to me
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan
4/5
Happy to get this - something fresh and different. I saw him in the 90s at Womadelaide. It is pretty uplifting music and I love the loping beat.
Aerosmith
3/5
Is what it is. Well produced, just doesn't touch me
The Beta Band
3/5
Reminded me of an old flatmate - it was OK, with a tinge of nostalgia. Assessment my favourite track
Simon & Garfunkel
3/5
Scarborough Fair really is beautiful, not matter how many times I hear it. The rest of the album is OK
Iggy Pop
4/5
More Iggy - thanks! Passenger is a classic
Fun Lovin' Criminals
3/5
Better than I thought it would be, but I did have low expectations. Sort of Beastie Boys light. Favourite track Scooby Snacks
Tim Buckley
3/5
This one just flows past - the first one, Strange Feelin', is a bit of a Miles Davis homage?
Sinead O'Connor
4/5
A classic album - good to listen to it here
PJ Harvey
4/5
A good album, hadn't listened to it before, but a favourite of my daughters. Ecstasy is a great song
Oasis
3/5
Pretty solid I guess, but I suppose I prefer Blur
David Holmes
3/5
Seems undistinguished to me. 'Don't Die Just yet' was the track I enjoyed the most, but I think it is a rip-off of a Serge Gainsbourg tune?
Buffalo Springfield
3/5
Not bad - interesting to hear them at this early stage - another band I'd heard of for ages but never really heard
Steve Winwood
2/5
Pretty boring
Syd Barrett
3/5
A mixed bag - didn't mind Long Gone
Snoop Dogg
2/5
I wonder how long (if ever) it will be before the B word is as toxic as the N word? I just don't get the ongoing double standard. But on the other hand this has a great sound and flow? Nup sorry Snoop, 2 for you.
The Dandy Warhols
4/5
I'm always partial to these guys - can't really pick a favourite. And the doco Dig is fantastic
Shack
3/5
Never heard of this group. It was listenable, but didn't seem to merit including in this list.
Don McLean
3/5
Although some tracks are the most seriously overplayed in history, it actually isn't that bad.
Bobby Womack
3/5
It's OK - pretty smooth in a Silk Sonic way. Strange reference to KFC in one of the songs. Product placement?
Q-Tip
3/5
It's OK - just flows past - nothing stood out for me
Ryan Adams
3/5
Haven't listened to Ryan Adams much, though have heard quite a bit about him. It was alright, but I can't see myself revisiting. Last track, Sweet Lil' gal was my favourite
The Incredible String Band
4/5
Weirder than I thought it would be, kind of mental. Funny that Neil performed it in the Young Ones. And all the Kazoo, Jaw Harp, and other strange instruments. I'm glad I was exposed to it here
The Young Gods
4/5
Pretty good - 90's cabaret industrial or something. L'Amourir was my favourite
Animal Collective
4/5
I'd never heard of this group. The album grew on me over a few listens. Hard to pick a favourite track - perhaps Lion in a Coma, Daily Routine, No More Runnin
Sly & The Family Stone
5/5
One of my favourite albums ever - and if you don't get it, check out their set at Woodstock
Bill Callahan
3/5
I enjoyed this Artist and Album - hadn't heard of either before. Relaxing vibe, beautiful voice and some interesting lyrics
Nirvana
4/5
A classic - obviously
Tim Buckley
3/5
Enjoyed the 100% 70s sound - favourite track Get on Top
Dagmar Krause
3/5
An odd choice - not complaining of course, that is what I have signed up for. I actually have a couple of LPs of this sort of music in my collection (Lost in the Stars, a collection of Kurt Weill songs by Tom Waits and other artists is fantastic).
The Cure
4/5
Haven't listened to this for ages, what a nostalgia blast. The Cure were so dominant in Sydney in the 80s. Our high school rock band covered A Forest. I think it holds up more or less
LTJ Bukem
3/5
It's a drum and bass record innit? Seems OK to me, but I can tell these sorts of tracks apart from one another
Beastie Boys
4/5
Although I think they improved with later albums, I'm never going to give the Beastie Boys less than 4
Orbital
3/5
It's OK - not likely to go back to it
Gram Parsons
3/5
Pretty smooth, happy to listen to it a couple of times
Billy Bragg
4/5
While the union songs don't really gel with me, i think Billy's pretty good writing about human relationships to. I have this one on vinyl from back in the day, and have always loved Greetings to the New Brunette.
The Hives
3/5
I would have loved them when I was 20. Now i think they are OK, but can't see myself going back to the Hives. Best track (and cool title) Hives are Law, You are Crime
Tom Waits
4/5
I love this album, 4 star rating is because I think Tom has done better (Raindogs, Swordfishtrombones, Franks Wild years). The bass player is amazing and does need to be chained up
John Prine
4/5
Pretty good, not bad, can't complain, but actually everything's just about the same. This album really grew on me after a few listens. Dylanesque - but I actually prefer this. Could return to it
Genesis
2/5
Really not my thing - there is often something a bit off about this 70s UK prog rock
3/5
Kick out the Jams is a great riff, but they just don't seem as good as the Stooges
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
3/5
Not my favourite Elvis Costello album, but has some good tracks. I Want You is interesting, I think it is a fantastic song, but I would be reluctant to recommend it to anyone, as it is also quite creepy
Koffi Olomide
3/5
Didn't mind this, found my head bobbing along as I listened while I worked. I do love that African bubbling bass, tinkling guitar combo, and he does have a great voice. But he is not a great guy, judging by the Wikipedia entry. Qui Cherche Trouve probably my favourite track
Guided By Voices
3/5
A band I'd heard of, but never bothered to seek out at the time. They were OK, but it is not a good sign when you are listening to it while you work, your ears perk up 'That song's OK' but Spotify has run on, and it is Long Division by Fugazi.... There was a weird 'snoring' chorus in one song
Donovan
3/5
Donovan has dated for sure, but this was better than I thought it might be. Three King Fishers was my favourite track
Tom Waits
5/5
One of my favourite albums of all time. Marc Ribot's solo in Jockey Full of Bourbon is one of the best solos of all time, especially with Keith Richards chugging away behind him. Funny to see that the ratings are almost all 1 or 5 with nothing in between. I think this is what artists should aspire to, and I think Tom Waits would appreciate this. 5 for me!
Elton John
3/5
Talented, competent, but it just doesn't touch me - something like Queen. Happy to acknowledge it as a milestone album though
Jazmine Sullivan
3/5
OK, but nothing too distinctive for me. Price Tags was pretty good.
Dire Straits
3/5
So weird to listen to this album now. It was so huge then, but sounds so dated in 2024 with that MOR saxophone and MTV references. He really does sound like some middle-aged guy trying to sound cool. I don't mind Sultans of Swing, but I am not sure there is anything here that I really need to go back to.
Green Day
3/5
I don't really have any comments on this - I'm not the audience. Seems competent
Screaming Trees
3/5
Another band I was aware of, but hadn't really listened. Halo of Ashes was good, but i don't think there is anything here I need to come back to.
Tracy Chapman
3/5
Nostalgia to hear it again, it was everywhere then
John Martyn
3/5
Never heard of this artist or album. I was surprised at how un-Folk it was, strong 70s vibe, and nod towards Nick Drake. Enjoyed it, not sure if I need to return. Most interesting track was probably Dreams by the Sea
U2
4/5
I don't like Bono, but I do like this album
Sigur Rós
3/5
A band I've been curious about - this was pretty good. Favourite track Flugufrelsarinn
Willie Colón & Rubén Blades
3/5
Pretty good - I love it when they do a roll call of countries in latin music (see Plastico)
Prefab Sprout
3/5
Another band I've known the name of forever but never sought out - recognised Appetite and a couple of other tracks. Nice pop songs, didn't mind this at all
Abdullah Ibrahim
3/5
Nice Mingus vibes at some points, and I could hear the South African feel too
The Kinks
3/5
The Kinks are such an odd band - occupying this weird place compared to the Beatles and the Stones, and with such a wildly disparate sound between songs. Another album I knew of, but hadn't listened to. I enjoyed it, and the track by track discussion on the Wikipedia entry really enhanced the experience
Stereolab
3/5
Pretty good. I was surprised by how many songs I recognised from this, including Metronomic Underground
Cowboy Junkies
3/5
It's OK, I remember when this was big, but it is a bit too low key for me. And the best tracks, including Sweet Jane, are covers.
3/5
Classic of it's kind I suppose, but doesn't really resonate with me
KISS
2/5
Pedestrian. A little while ago, I received a free ticket to see KISS and went along for curiousity. I thought they might be one of those bands that had more hits than I remembered. They weren't. 'I Was Made For Loving You' is a great song, but there isn't much else.
Pavement
4/5
A great album which grows on you with each listen. I didn't pay much attention to it back in the day - but it is very popular with my kids' circles (ie around 20 y.o.).
AC/DC
3/5
It's unpatriotic of me - but AC/DC don't really do it for me, like KISS, I also find them a bit pedestrian. But respect for plying their trade with skill I guess
Yes
3/5
OK - I've heard it, acknowledge that it exists, but won't be listening to it again
Randy Newman
3/5
Soaked in the 70s that album - I prefer Tom Waits for this sort of thing
Mott The Hoople
3/5
Pretty good for a 2nd-tier band. Yet another one I've known the name for ages, had never really listened to, now I have, and now I can place them. He really does sound like Bowie - I wonder why he seemed so interested in them?
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
5/5
Really beautiful record - especially if you feel like remembering someone who has passed away
The Fall
4/5
I enjoyed this - especially Mark E Smith's delivery with '-uh' at the end of each phrase. Rough and raw
Slade
3/5
Never really listened to Slade - before my time. They're another interesting 2nd tier band. Interesting to hear connections with Bowie and Beatles coming through the Glam Rock - Wandering Y and Man Who Speaks Evil were favourites
The Fall
4/5
Two Fall albums almost in row. I enjoyed this one, they are really growing on me.
Slipknot
3/5
I wasn't looking forward to this, and I wasn't disappointed. It's proficient - but not for me
Joni Mitchell
3/5
A great title, and I enjoyed the laid-back 70s vibe - probably Harry's House my favourite
The Who
3/5
For me, the Who are a band who can and could be great - but they divert into a vibe that is a bit creepy. Like I Can See for Miles and Miles as a classic example. So happy to give this album a go, but won't come back to it.
The Police
3/5
While I think the Police are a fantastic group, this is my least favourite album. Perhaps too much Sting, not enough Stu. Synchronicity is my favourite song. and shout out to 'Scrantonicity'!
Underworld
3/5
Cool story behind the name - otherwise it was just techo playing behind me while I worked, with the odd catchy chorus.
GZA
3/5
It was OK - samurai movie quotes seemed hokey, and music seemed a bit generic to me.
CHIC
3/5
That was fun - Chic Cheer my favourite (Le Freak is great of course, but I have just heard it too many times)
Bob Marley & The Wailers
4/5
I like this era of reggae Tosh and Marley together, and while I hadn't listened to this album through before, I knew a lot of the songs - 400 Year or Kinky Reggae probably my favourites.
Wu-Tang Clan
3/5
Sorry I just don't see it - I mean it's OK, but I prefer others
Lou Reed
3/5
I love Lou Reed, but this one was a bit patchy. I liked the tracks I had heard before - Caroline Says, How Do You Think it Feels. That track The Kids is awful with the crying - had to skip it
The Smashing Pumpkins
3/5
A bit too long - its OK
TV On The Radio
4/5
Was aware of this band, but had never really listened to them. I enjoyed this, they are trying to do their own thing - favourite track was Bomb Yourself. Will come back to them.
Elbow
3/5
These guys passed me by at the time.
Metallica
2/5
I can't see this in the list - don't think the orchestra adds anything of substance
Bauhaus
3/5
Don't mind a bit of post-punk. Heard of Bauhaus but first listen
Soft Machine
4/5
Not usually a prog-rock fan, but there was something about this that hit the spot
The Flaming Lips
3/5
I remember this from the time, but it passed me by then and now. It's OK
The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion
3/5
Pretty good fun - these guys were fantastic live back in the day
Dusty Springfield
3/5
I love her voice - though this is pretty straight stuff
Holger Czukay
3/5
Interesting, and I am glad it was served up to me. However I can't see myself going back to it.
Hole
4/5
It's the second album I've heard which has made me think Hole and Courtney Love have been underestimated. This is a great recording which i will come back to. Malibu and Northern Star in particular are great songs.
Jeff Beck
3/5
Solid 60's British Blues I guess. Interesting to hear the Led Zep antecedents, but can't see that I would need to go back to it.
Blue Cheer
3/5
Interesting artefact, and to hear the roots of metal, but the record itself is heaving going
The Psychedelic Furs
4/5
Enjoyed this and will go back to it, especially Dumb Waiters and Pretty in Pink. A real sense of the 80s.
Kate Bush
3/5
Not an album I had listened to much, but I really enjoyed it, particularly the title track
Peter Gabriel
3/5
Interesting, but I'm not going back to it. Reminiscent of Pink Floyd
Mariah Carey
3/5
It's well put together, and better than I thought, but that style of singing grates on me - it has infected every talent show singer
k.d. lang
3/5
These faithful reproductions aren't really my thing, even if they are as beautifully done as this was.
Guns N' Roses
4/5
I had never considered myself a G&R fan - but there are a lot of great songs on this album, which I have never listened to in full before. My Michelle was a new favourite for me.
Baaba Maal
3/5
He has a distinct sound - strange how the world seems less open to music like this now. Daniibe my favourite track
Death In Vegas
3/5
Never heard of them - didn't mind this time but probably no need to go back, Iggy Pop notwithstanding
Beatles
5/5
Obviously a classic
Eagles
3/5
It's OK - a little unfairly maligned? Earlybird was my favourite new track
3/5
There was a fantastic punk band in Sydney called X. I knew there was a US band with the same name, but have never listened to them. Now I have. Pretty good.
The Sabres Of Paradise
3/5
Background music for work. Never heard of them before, but didn't mind
The Stranglers
5/5
Classic songs on this album, and they have such a strong unique sound. I love the Stranglers
Public Image Ltd.
3/5
More grating than I remembered, but worth a couple of listens
Stevie Wonder
3/5
Happy to listen to a Stevie Wonder album of course. I wasn't familiar with this - which is a bonus. But I don't think it is quite as good as Innervisions
Peter Tosh
4/5
Although this is not my favourite Peter Tosh album, it is my favourite period of reggae - No Sympathy is a great song
Sisters Of Mercy
3/5
I'd never been interested in this band - too goth. But it wasn't bad. Favourite track, Lucretia My Reflection.
Solomon Burke
3/5
Don't mind it - probably wouldn't seek it out
The Byrds
4/5
Unexpectedly good - a cut above the usual late 60's psychedelia. I'll come back to this one.
Dexys Midnight Runners
4/5
Enjoyed this - funny that their most famous song is kind of their most annoying one. Favourites - The Teams that Meet in Caffs, and Geno
Siouxsie And The Banshees
3/5
It was OK, but I was expecting more I think. They were a band I had overlooked, and thought this might be a revelation, but didn't really do that much for me.
Johnny Cash
3/5
Not quite what I thought it would be. He is an amazing singer, but it does seem to lean on cliche, and some of those covers seem a bit sketchy
Lou Reed
5/5
A classic with some of my favourite songs ever.
The War On Drugs
3/5
There is a consistent sound through this album that does make the songs indistinguishable to some extent. However I didn't mind listening to it a few times through while working.
Stevie Wonder
4/5
Like many others, I give this a 4 due to Superstition.
Dwight Yoakam
3/5
Pleasant country - can't say more than that
SZA
3/5
It was OK - didn't really speak to me, but then again, I'm probably not the audience
Morrissey
3/5
Suedehead is a great song, Bengali in Platforms seems like a foreshadowing of his current questionable positions, and the rest of it is kind of the Smiths but not quite as good.
Dinosaur Jr.
4/5
Big nostalgia blast for me, though they weren't in the first rank for me at the time.
James Taylor
3/5
Just flows past - Fire and Rain is a pretty good song though
The Cure
3/5
I wasn't familiar with this Cure album - I respect the intention and the sound they acheived
Pere Ubu
4/5
Pretty amazing album for 1978 - it improved on repeated listenings, and I'll probably come back to it
10cc
2/5
This was pretty awful - not sure what it is doing here
Neil Young
4/5
I really enjoyed this today - When You Dance You Can Really Love was my favourite track
The Divine Comedy
2/5
Never heard of this band, and it is not clear to me why they would be on this list.
R.E.M.
4/5
Brilliant album, not one that I am too familiar with. Great to hear REM when they were raw!
Marianne Faithfull
3/5
Pretty good, was familiar with Broken English and Ballad of Lucy Jordan. She is an institution.
Talking Heads
4/5
Great album - Sugar on my Tongue a discovery
Grant Lee Buffalo
3/5
Heard of them, but had never listened. Pretty good - favourite track probably the first one The Shining Hour.
Peter Gabriel
3/5
More interesting than I thought it would be
Japan
3/5
A good album from an artist I always overlooked. Quiet Life and the cover of All Tomorrows Parties were my favourite tracks
Mylo
3/5
Alright to listen to while I worked - but I would query it's inclusion on this list. Not really groundbreaking and kind of forgettable
Dexys Midnight Runners
3/5
OK - but not sure about this record's place in the 1001
Kate Bush
3/5
Interesting, and justifies inclusion, but I don't see myself going back to it. The Dreaming has not aged well - weird Rolf Harris vibes and strange Australian accent
Justin Timberlake
3/5
I enjoyed this more than I thought I would - Rock Your Body is a great track
Miles Davis
5/5
The first time I 'got' jazz was listening to this album as a teenager. It's been a long time, but I found myself humming along to so many beautiful moments. Really enjoyed this, and won't neglect it so much in the future
Hot Chip
3/5
I've seen the name around, so interesting to hear what they sound like. But it didn't make a big impression on me.
The Smiths
4/5
Good- but not their best
Ray Charles
3/5
I didn't mind listening to this - especially his Hank Williams covers. But historical interest, more than something I would go back to.
3/5
Not entirely my thing, but I can see the appeal - and clearly deserves its place on this list
The Rolling Stones
3/5
With a couple of exceptions, this is a pretty ordinary record. They can do better
Prince
4/5
Yet another album where I knew the hits, but had never listened to the whole thing. Not exactly my thing, but still pretty good, a coherent piece of work.
Os Mutantes
3/5
Like other reviewers, one of the reasons I signed up is to come across albums like this. Can't say would necessarily come back to it, but I am glad to know that it exists, and that I have given it a few 'spins'
Sonic Youth
5/5
In the Kingdom # 19 is a great driving song! I was obsessed with this band in my 20s, played this one on heavy repeat. Something about the guitars, JG Ballard vibe etc etc
The Residents
3/5
Imagine coming across this on vinyl in the 70s. Some weird shit for sure. Why not?
The Disposable Heroes Of Hiphoprisy
2/5
Terrible, like Gil Scott-Heron, but with no talent. I could only listen to that once.
The Beta Band
3/5
Reminded me of an old flatmate who used to play this off a burned CD all the time. There are some songs such as Human Being and Gone that I could come back to.
Depeche Mode
3/5
Didn't mind that
Earth, Wind & Fire
3/5
First time listening to a whole EWF Album - it would have been good if they could have cut loose Africano style more
5/5
Basically a perfect album - i feel back to being 10 years old, listening to Starman
Massive Attack
3/5
Classic of its time - brings back memories
The Electric Prunes
3/5
I remember 'I Had Too Much to Dream...' from an old Nuggets record. Its a good track, and even though this record is patchy overall, there are a few other good ones.
Moby Grape
3/5
Solid 60s rock I guess, not sure I would bother to go back to it
Rufus Wainwright
3/5
I like the Lawrence of Arabia quote in 'Oh What a World', and the rest of the album is pretty lush. I enjoyed this one
Elis Regina
3/5
First time for me - enjoyed the discovery
Scott Walker
3/5
He's always interesting. Might come back to Black Sheep Boy later
Iggy Pop
5/5
Iggy Pop + Bowie + Berlin = 5 stars of course
John Martyn
3/5
Interesting time capsule. Happy to have listened to it a few times
Drive-By Truckers
3/5
I enjoyed this - favourite song was Ronnie and Neil, but will come back to it I think
Slint
4/5
Had heard of, but not heard, these guys before. Not sure how it missed me back in the day back in the nineties. I enjoyed listening to this, and may come back to it. Great cover photo
The Black Keys
3/5
Pretty good. I do think they bring something new to the genre, and would be happy to go back to them. I'm Not the One was one of my favourites
The Clash
5/5
It's the Clash so guaranteed 5, even if I prefer some of the later albums. 'I'm so bored with the USA' pretty much sums up our current era
The Police
5/5
An old favourite of mine, even if there are a couple of tracks that could have been left off (On Any Other Day). But with Walking on the Moon and Message in a Bottle - definately 5
R.E.M.
5/5
A classic record - The One I Love still makes me a bit emotional. I remember be affected by it when travelling in my twenties.
Fever Ray
3/5
Ok for background music while working
Buzzcocks
4/5
This one really grew on my after a few listens - simple and direct in a punk style. I've added Fast Cars to my playlist
Afrika Bambaataa
3/5
Historic and interesting for sure - but as others have noted, it suffers from the fact that other artists built on and improve these foundations. Glad I went through it a couple of times, but can't see myself coming back to it.
Throwing Muses
4/5
This was a great album that unfortunately I overlooked at the time. I'll come back to this
Can
4/5
I enjoyed this - interesting to hear how it foreshadowed Eno and Talking heads for instance.
Kelela
3/5
Pleasant - updated Sade - didn't mind
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
3/5
I knew the name, but missed them when they came out. Not too bad
Roni Size
3/5
Didn't mind - liked the double bass in Brown Paper Bag
Steely Dan
4/5
Pretty fantastic - haven't heard it before, other than Rikki of course. I think here they pull off the type of album a lot of other bands aspire to. Note also that my hipster 18 y.o. son has a weird liking for these guys.
Talking Heads
5/5
One of my favourite albums, and Crosseyed and Painless one of my favourite songs - amazing the range of genres they played with and foreshadowed (The Overload - sounds like Joy Division for example). Amazing record - hard 5
Fleetwood Mac
4/5
As it happens, I've never listened to this album from start to finish, even though I have always loved Dreams. It's pretty good. My other favourite track was The Chain.
U2
2/5
Phony
Peter Frampton
3/5
A record I saw in every 2nd-hand record store or stall (when we had such things), never listened to it then, and now I have. Weird how he only seems to have existed through this one record? Anyway, it is serviceable I guess
The Darkness
3/5
Sure it's fun, and they were fun at the time, but that falsetto is a bit much.
The Dictators
3/5
Hadn't heard of these guys - interesting evolutionary step, bits of Ramones, Radio Birdman, beach boys
Alanis Morissette
3/5
Interesting and enjoyable to listen to this album through in full a couple of times after all these years. I think it still holds up.
Fatboy Slim
3/5
Okay background music
N.E.R.D
3/5
Kind of average - Beastie Boys did it way better
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
4/5
Some of his greatest tracks, Cinnamon Girl and Down by the River on this one
Soundgarden
3/5
I didn't take much notice of this at the time, but enjoyed listening to it now - pretty strong songs.
Emerson, Lake & Palmer
3/5
Interesting artefact - of its time I guess. Didn't mind listening to it, but won't bother going back to it.
Circle Jerks
4/5
Extra star for the format - 14 songs in 15 minutes. Pretty solid hard-core too.
Johnny Cash
4/5
A classic of course - amazing atmosphere in the prison. Hard to imagine it being allowed now...
808 State
4/5
Not really my thing, but it's status as a genre-defining classic comes through. I was happy to listen through it a few times.
The Clash
5/5
A perfect album - I picked it up as a cassette when I was 10, and I can still listen to it again and again- 6 out of 5!
Pearl Jam
3/5
I've never really listened to Pearl Jam. Perhaps as they fell between other bands I do like (Nirvana, QOTSA) without particularly appealing to me. Having said that, I think they are OK and I didn't mind listening to this a couple of times.
The The
4/5
4 stars for Uncertain Smile alone, a classic record of its time
Primal Scream
3/5
Overpromises and underdelivers a little, this one
New Order
3/5
Songs such as Perfect Kiss are pretty good, but they're not Blue Monday
Arcade Fire
3/5
Understand why people like this, but doesn't do it for me - perhaps a little too demonstrative, heart-on-sleeve indie?
Scott Walker
4/5
Fantastic strange album - The Old Man's Back Again was my favourite track. I'll definitely come back to this one.
Ice T
2/5
Sounds a bit tired now
The Soft Boys
4/5
This is what I signed up for, a fascinating (and long!) album from an artist I'd only vaguely heard of. Likely to come back to this
Manic Street Preachers
3/5
Didn't mind this - Redd Kross vibes. Another band I have heard the name for ages, but never sought out. And sad back-story. Oh well...
Depeche Mode
3/5
Not bad - Enjoy the Silence my favourite track I think
Def Leppard
3/5
Kind of pedestrian - but I'm giving them an additional star on the basis that it is cool that they worked out how to keep their drummer in the band after losing his arm
Red Hot Chili Peppers
4/5
Straight back to 1991 when this was everywhere. Yes it's too long, and has dated a little bit, but 4 stars for Give it Away, and for being such a time machine.
Napalm Death
3/5
RRRERWGHHERREGHHEEREHGEWWWWEUUUUUUHHRRGRRERRGGGGERGGUUUURRRRRGGGHHHEERRRREEGERREEEEEEGHHHHHRREEERRRRRBWERRREEFGHERREE!
Joan Baez
3/5
This album follows straight after Scum by Napalm Death! This whiplash is what keeps me going on this project. I'm not a folk enthusiast, but I enjoyed Joan more than I thought I would, especially the story songs like John Riley or Mary Hamilton
Super Furry Animals
3/5
I think I would have enjoyed this had I paid attention to it when it came out. So while I was happy to listen to it now for a couple of times, I can't see myself going back to it.
Lorde
4/5
Enjoyed this one
Carpenters
3/5
It is pretty saccharine, I remember playing We've Only Just Begun in my primary school band, and they use Close to You as muzak in the public toilets just up the road. So mixed vibes. But I guess it is a classic of its own type
John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers
3/5
On the one hand it's a bit stale and phoney, on the other it has some historical value
The Velvet Underground
5/5
One of my favourite bands, but not my favourite album of theirs - though i have always loved The Gift so it gets 5 stars due to that. John Cale's voice is so wonderful. I wonder if many of Lou Reeds stories were published?
Anita Baker
3/5
Not something I'd choose to listen to - a bit smooth. But she does have a great voice, and sometimes the slickness appeals
David Bowie
5/5
I had underestimated this album, skipping ahead to Blackstar when it was released. But really The Next Day is just as good. I've had Boss of Me in my head all day. There are a lot of Bowie albums on this list but I haven't given one less than 5 stars and am not going to treat this one any differently
The Jesus And Mary Chain
3/5
While I am familiar with this band (and have seen them live) it's the first time I have listened to one of their albums in detail. I was surprised by the convergent evolution (I guess) with Brian Jonestown Massacre in this album, especially songs such as Ninety Million Rainy Days - hadn't picked that before.
Belle & Sebastian
3/5
Very pleasant - washes over me
Thin Lizzy
3/5
One the one hand, the music is sometimes a bit meat and potatoes. On the other - what a band! It would have been amazing to see them live.
a-ha
3/5
Only know Take on Me - which is a cracking song. Rest of the album is OK
Fairport Convention
3/5
Interesting - I think I enjoyed the psychedelic aspects of the quiet joys of brotherhood the most.
Ali Farka Touré
3/5
I like the textures and rhythms of this album, the african blues.
Leonard Cohen
3/5
Classic album - use of jew harp throughout is weird but great
Buck Owens
4/5
This album was much better than I anticipated. Yes it was a bit cheesy, but also classy and something in songs like Laredo and Memphis connected with me.
Björk
4/5
Brilliant - so different. I really enjoyed this, working through the layers with repeated listenings. I will definitely come back to this. I am glad that there is a Bjork in this world
Jack White
4/5
Great album, never thought to look into Jack White solo albums. I'll listen to it again
The Stooges
5/5
Top record from a top band. Probably my favourite stooges record. Love it
Liz Phair
4/5
Knew her name, but this album was a discovery for more - favourite some was Mesmerising - but will come back for others too
Creedence Clearwater Revival
4/5
I have had a run of albums that were better than I thought they were going to be, and it continues with Bayou Country. I had consigned CCR to the 2nd tier of 60's bands with a few overplayed hits. But this album is pretty great, his voice is raw and powerful, and the sound really choogles along. I'll come back to this
Kings of Leon
3/5
For me, one of those bands that are OK, but just don't break through
TLC
3/5
Happy to listen to this, nice flow
k.d. lang
3/5
It's a beautiful album - enjoyed listening to it a few times
Portishead
4/5
Another strong nostalgia flashback - still great
The Byrds
4/5
I love this album - just grows and grows on me with each listen. Does country music inevitably appeal to you as you age?
Meat Loaf
3/5
Somehow I have lived more than 50 years without listening to this album in full - only the hits. Not too bad
Fred Neil
3/5
Not bad - I've added The Dolphins to my playlist
Talking Heads
4/5
Hadn't listened to this much except for Life During Wartime - another great Talking Heads album I'll come back to
Stereo MC's
2/5
Hasn't really dated that well - seems a bit nothing now
George Harrison
3/5
Great songs, but too long and too much noodling
Paul Revere & The Raiders
3/5
Interesting piece of history, but no need to go back to it
Gene Clark
4/5
A beautiful album. I'd heard Silver Raven before, and now I know where it comes from. Definitely coming back to this
Bob Dylan
4/5
OK - yes it is a classic that gets better with every listen. I understand now
Thundercat
3/5
I enjoyed the experimentation - worth a listen.
Jah Wobble's Invaders Of The Heart
3/5
So 90s - has aged a bit. But enjoyed the nostalgia
Lambchop
3/5
Pretty smooth - good to listen to while finishing off an assignment
The Doors
5/5
I've loved this album since I was 14 and it's still great - for me it hasn't aged a bit. Even songs like Light My Fire survive overplaying.
The Temptations
4/5
Funkier than I thought it would be, and great versions of songs I already knew and loved. Will come back to it
The Beau Brummels
3/5
New to me, though might have heard the name before. Okay 60's psychedelica I guess
Ravi Shankar
4/5
I picked this up on vinyl at a 2nd hand record stall about 30 years ago - great to see it on this list
Gil Scott-Heron
5/5
One of my favourite artists, beautiful voice, brilliant lyrics
Taylor Swift
4/5
This is the first Taylor Swift album I've listened to from first to last. As 55 year old guy, I enjoyed it more than I thought I would.
The Thrills
3/5
Hollywood Kids jumped out, the rest of the album was pleasant. OK, but didn't make a big impression
Little Simz
3/5
Pretty good - bit of grit there
Black Flag
3/5
Grew on me with a few listens - love the ropey bass sound.
The KLF
3/5
One of my favourite podcasts ever was about the KLF burning one million pounds. This album is pretty good to for a nostalgia blast
William Orbit
3/5
Slightly higher grade muzak
The Style Council
3/5
That's a pretty odd album, have not listened for a long time. One of those albums that used to be common in 2nd hand record shops. Well it's not the Jam, though I do give PW credit for trying something different
Pink Floyd
4/5
A freaky classic - Lucifer Sam and Interstellar Overdrive still rock. And Gerald the Mouse ... nuff said
Moby
2/5
It's pretty dull. And does seem exploitative, serving up pre-digested old blues recordings.
Fatboy Slim
3/5
Solid 90s soundtrack. Interesting to get this right after Moby. I'd always conflated them, but Fatboy Slim is heaps better, more original and funkier. Main issue is just how overplayed it was
Barry Adamson
2/5
I'm pretty sure I listened to another Barry Adamson soundtrack album for a movie that doesn't exist a few hundred albums ago. I think one is enough for this list.
The Prodigy
3/5
This album pumps. I have misgivings about Smack My Bitch Up though, no matter how you spin it...
Joe Ely
3/5
Pretty solid country, if you're in the mood for that - Boxcars was probably my favourite track.
Kanye West
2/5
Nup
Simply Red
3/5
Pretty mainstream
3/5
I enjoy getting a band like this that I've never heard of before - even if I am unlikely to go back to it
Emerson, Lake & Palmer
3/5
Prog rock albums always seem a bit strange to me, some stuff is interesting, some stuff is cringe. Happy to listen, see what EL&P were about, but won't be revisiting.
The Icarus Line
2/5
Never heard of them before - doesn't seem to me that they add much to the world of rock music - mediocre
Khaled
5/5
I remember Rai music having a moment back then. This is a real discovery, loved it (skipping the cover of Imagine) - lots of different feels and moods, but a lot of great tracks too.
The Sensational Alex Harvey Band
3/5
never heard of this - pretty solid, and interesting historical album, given the influence it seems it had
Meat Puppets
3/5
New to me, enjoyed this album and the links to Nirvana were interesting. I added Lake of Fire and I'm a Mindless Idiot to my playlist
The Zutons
3/5
I'd never heard of them. Competent, but second tier. I just don't hear the spark which would justify their inclusion.
Marilyn Manson
3/5
I had never really listened to MM. I appreciate the intensity, but a bit rich for me. Definitely worth inclusion on this list though
The Cult
5/5
A big dumb pure classic - love it!
The Who
3/5
Pretty good as far as live albums go. There is a slight creepy vibe sometimes. I agree with one of the other reviews, it is great how Keith Moon and John Entwhistle float around, and are anchored by Pete Townshend rather than the other way around.
Antony and the Johnsons
3/5
Pretty high quality, but a little too rich for me.
The Associates
2/5
No - never heard of them, and don't feel that I needed to
The xx
3/5
It's okay - nothing struck me
Ministry
3/5
Haven't really listened to this band before - some great tracks - Jesus Built My Hotrod, and Scarecrow.
The Velvet Underground
5/5
Such a beautiful album - one of my favourites
Ladysmith Black Mambazo
3/5
Very sweet and unique sound, definitely deserves its place on this list
David Bowie
5/5
It's Bowie - so automatic 5 stars from me. One of the albums I'm less familiar with, so happy to spend some time with it today.
Norah Jones
3/5
A little too smooth for me
Tori Amos
3/5
While I would have been too narrow minded to listen to this on release as a young man, now I think it is pretty good in a Kate Bush kind of way
Curtis Mayfield
5/5
A brilliant beautiful album.
Tom Waits
5/5
Amazing banging, twanging rattling and howling album with so many memorable lines - 'Cause there's nothing strange about an axe with bloodstains in the barn, there's always some killing to do around the farm'. Tom Waits is always good for a 5.
Baaba Maal
3/5
It's beautiful, and I am all for global albums being included on this list. Having said that, this music tends to wash over me in an undifferentiated manner.
Ramblin' Jack Elliott
3/5
I enjoyed this, kind of raw authentic sound from the late 50s. I hadn't heard of Ramblin' Jack before
Fugazi
4/5
That was a great album - I realise I didn't pay these guys enough attention when they were around in the 90s. Blueprint and Shut the Door my favourite tracks
John Lennon
3/5
I hadn't bothered to listen to this, not being such a fan of John Lennon's solo work. It was okay, but didn't really convert me. Favourite thing about it was probably Ringo's drumming
Mj Cole
2/5
Dull - really not sure why this was selected. Never heard of him.
Hugh Masekela
4/5
Brilliant, I enjoyed this discovery. Somewhere between Mingus and Miles with South African vibe. The Big Apple was the standout track for me, but they were all great. Will come back
Suicide
4/5
Never heard of these guys - what a unique record. Not one I'd want to listen to all the time, but really interesting and groundbreaking. Discoveries like this are what I signed up for.
Kings of Leon
3/5
Solid but ordinary. It passed me by at the time as I was pre-occupied with young children. No real reason to come back to it now - though Molly's Chambers is a pretty good track
Public Image Ltd.
4/5
I love these albums that inspire either 1 or 5 stars. Often these late 70s post-punk albums. Suicide, which I listened to a couple of days ago was similar. Again, a unique new sound that earns its place on the list for me.
Pet Shop Boys
3/5
One of those albums which is obviously high-quality, but not one to which I respond personally. They do certainly capture a time and mood.
Elvis Costello
3/5
I quite like Elvis Costello, though missed this album. Seemed to reprise sounds from a few of his earlier tracks - pretty good ones though. Not sure I need to add it to Olivers Army, My Aim is True etc
Duke Ellington
3/5
Seemed an odd inclusion - there are much better Duke Ellington studio albums
3/5
Not a band I really knew, happy to be introduced to them. I liked the slow funky feel
Britney Spears
3/5
I'd never paid this album that much attention (other than watching a great documentary on Netflix about Max Martin and the Swedish hitmakers). It was pretty good I thought. Though Toxic is my favourite Britney track
Mercury Rev
4/5
I must have lived with someone once who played this a lot, but I can't remember who. Quite a feeling of nostalgia listening to this! Some great tracks - The Funny Bird, Goddess on a Highway
Jimi Hendrix
5/5
Love Hendrix, love this album. Favourite track - if six was nine.
Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
3/5
An album I probably should have known better than I did. And with a few tracks such as Our House where it was like 'Oh that is where this is from'. Favourite track - Carry One
Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band
4/5
Such a huge fantastic interesting world of an album
50 Cent
3/5
I don't usually rate gangster rap, but this grew on me after a few listens
Michael Jackson
3/5
Never listened to the whole album before, hardly needed to given how many of the hits have been high rotation, forever. While I recognise the quality, I prefer Off the Wall and Thriller.
Tangerine Dream
4/5
I love some retro-futuristic synth noodling space music
Badly Drawn Boy
3/5
Once around the block is a blast of nostalgia. Other tracks don't make so much of an impression
Ananda Shankar
3/5
More of a curiosity that a must-listen?
The Coral
3/5
Never heard of them. The Coral are a solid band. I would be happy if I saw them at my local. But not 1001
Frankie Goes To Hollywood
3/5
Definitely an 80s milestone
Goldfrapp
3/5
Cologne Cerrone Houdini my favourite track. Not a bad album
MC Solaar
4/5
Really enjoyed this - great flow in french.
Bon Jovi
3/5
Some songs with great belting choruses, and some pedestrian tracks. Interesting to listen to it the whole way through for the first time.
Big Star
4/5
A tight pop record with a few tracks (such as thirteen) that I'll revisit.
Big Black
3/5
Intense - definitely an interesting one, and I put Bad Houses on my playlist
Nightmares On Wax
1/5
Dull, bland and undistinguised - should not be on this list
Doves
4/5
An album with some depth that grew on me with repeated listenings. I saved Catch the Sun
The 13th Floor Elevators
3/5
My first introduction to this band was through the Radio Birdman cover of You're Gonna Miss Me (which is much better). I usually like psychedelic rock, but that wubba wubba jug through everything is a bit much.
The Chemical Brothers
4/5
Great pumping album
The Shamen
3/5
It has dated a little. But does bring back the feeling of the 90s for me
Klaxons
3/5
First time for me listening to this group, couldn't help but be repeatedly reminded of the Arctic Monkeys - not that this is necessarily a bad thing.
Stan Getz
3/5
Interesting how something can be so close to muzak, yet at the same time be so far from it. Even though it is soft and non-obtrusive, there are a lot of cool things happening in this music.
The The
4/5
I bought this on CD back in the 80s. Matt Johnson shows a unique sound and vision on this album. While it is very much of its time, I also think it holds up well now.
Rod Stewart
4/5
I enjoyed this more than I thought I would, something better that a guy belting out standards. Maggie May is such a great song.
Television
4/5
Such a great unique album - every song is memorable.
Venom
3/5
First time for me. I don't mind some metal, and it was interesting to hear one of the pioneers. It has dated a little I think, doesn't quite have the power of some other metal bands.
The Go-Go's
4/5
This album surprised me - much better than I had expected. It appears I have underestimated the Go-Go's. Nice tight pop songs that I will come back to. This Town, and Tonite were my favourite tracks
The Replacements
4/5
Another band I've heard of for ages, but never followed up. Tracks like I Will Dare and Sixteen Blue were familiar though. And another discovery for me that I will come back to. A great album.
The Rolling Stones
4/5
A classic of course
DJ Shadow
3/5
First time listening to this - pretty groundbreaking
Ash
3/5
Competent, but not distinctive and I can't see any reason I would go back to it. A name I remember from back in the day, but didn't pay attention to them then.
The Crusaders
2/5
Yes it is a bit too close to muzak. Not sure what it is doing on this list.
Cocteau Twins
3/5
Of its time, very evocative. Reminded me of My Bloody Valentine unexpectedly
Spacemen 3
2/5
Pretty ordinary - like Brian Jonestown Massacre - but nowhere near as good
The Flaming Lips
3/5
Definitely a 2002 milestone. Not surprising that Cat Stevens sued though!
Bebel Gilberto
3/5
Alguem added to my playlist - overall pretty and pleasant.
Sheryl Crow
3/5
I was expecting a commercial, middle of the road, album, but found something a little grittier - more Lucinda Williams vibe. So a pleasant surprise, which I quite enjoyed - Leaving Las Vegas probably my favourite track
Fela Kuti
3/5
Amazing artist, great sound and presence - but those songs do go on, especially when they get onto the solos
Garbage
3/5
It was OK - fair representation of the period, and I recognised more hits than I thought I would
Motörhead
5/5
Essence of Rock - Ace of Spades has to be a contender for the greatest rock song ever. I hadn't gone further than this before, and I really enjoyed the rest of the album. I am kicking myself that I never saw them live.
The Who
3/5
Such a strange band, the Who. In my opinion this album deserves its place in the list. And there are fantastic passages, riffs etc. But then sections that are creepy, outdated, too long.
Beatles
3/5
Don't Bother Me, the George Harrison tune was the stand-out track for me. Everything else was pretty standard early Beatles, which is not a bad thing.
Van Morrison
3/5
Unique (backing music sounds a bit like krongcong to me, if you know that niche Indonesian style). I enjoyed it, but won't lose my head over it like some others I know.
System Of A Down
3/5
A solid album of its type, but I am not the market for it.
Django Django
2/5
Never heard of them. Not bad, but not interesting.
Queen Latifah
4/5
Great album. It is a landmark, hasn't dated too much, and grew on me after a few listens. Favourite track - The Pros.
Dr. Octagon
3/5
I appreciated the weirdness
Nanci Griffith
3/5
One of those albums that is a good example of what it is, but not really my thing. I enjoyed it - pleasant.
Muddy Waters
3/5
Solid blues
G. Love & Special Sauce
3/5
They were fun to see at a summer festival, but seem a little ephemeral for this list.
Van Morrison
4/5
A classic - great brass sound.
Ms. Dynamite
3/5
Don't remember this artist, but a couple of tracks (Dy-Na-Mi-Tee) triggered memories so it must have been out there. It was OK
Alice In Chains
3/5
Pretty solid - didn't pay much attention to them at the time. One of those bands that are good, but didn't particularly catch me.
Emmylou Harris
3/5
Pleasant - J'ai fait tout probably my favourite track
Jane's Addiction
4/5
Wow - this one brings back memories. I had it on high rotation when it was fresh.
The Sugarcubes
5/5
I have this album on vinyl, and saw them live. But haven't listened to it for ages. I love this album, the Sugarcubes were a great band, but you can see what a star Bjork was going to become.
Louis Prima
3/5
Good fun - his version of Night Train is fantastic
Skunk Anansie
3/5
Its OK, but doesn't really touch me.
Orange Juice
3/5
Kind of cute. I never listened at the time - confused them with Bread? Breakfast?