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Fri Oct 22 2021
Rust Never Sleeps
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
Seems appropriate that my first album would be by a performer from my hometown. I know he wasn't born in Winnipeg, but he spent his important early formative there. In many ways, Rust Never Sleeps is the quintessential NY record, with one side an acoustic solo set and side two an electric set with his band Crazy Horse, a classic live album. Though not my favourite Neil Young album, this is always a very satisfying listen. I personally like live albums (he's released several) so this ranks high, especially in the Neil Young catalog.
4
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Mon Oct 25 2021
The Hour Of Bewilderbeast
Badly Drawn Boy
My first listen to Badly Drawn Boy and I must admit I was impressed! The Hour of Bewilderbeast is an interesting listen, with a varied range of influences and styles with a lush, full sound that will lead me to seek out more from BDB in the near future.
4
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Tue Oct 26 2021
Veckatimest
Grizzly Bear
Beautifully crafted pop album that is hard to categorize or describe. I listened a third time to fully appreciate the exquisite depth of the record. Excellent album!
5
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Wed Oct 27 2021
Africa Brasil
Jorge Ben Jor
I wasn't familiar with the artist or the album, but I have been casually listening to some Brazilian music recently. Nice grooves and an infectious rhythm that is very easy to listen to. Thanks for the suggestion!
4
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Thu Oct 28 2021
Brothers
The Black Keys
I haven't been a fan of the Black Keys, but of what I've heard they sound fine. With the absence of authentic rock' n 'roll in much of today's popular music, the Black Keys are a breath of fresh air. Though their music isn't exactly original, they play with a passion and a spirit that is a throwback to when rock dominated radio. Brothers is a solid record that grows on you with repeated listening.
3.5/5
3
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Fri Oct 29 2021
Odelay
Beck
When I first heard Beck, I thought this acoustic guitar-playing skinny white "loser" wouldn't amount to much. He had a hit and I didn't care for his music at the time. Boy, was I wrong! He has created an incredible catalog of critically acclaimed albums, it's music in a wide range of genres and his influence on popular music can't be denied. He has released some flat-out great records and Odelay might be his best! I reserve my judgement until I listen to all his albums.
5
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Mon Nov 01 2021
...And Justice For All
Metallica
First of all, I can't believe I listened to a whole Metallica album! Though there are some fine songs on this album and I can understand the appeal of the band to their fans, I wished it would ended sooner as it became quite monotonous and repetitious. They take themselves far too seriously and for a band (more specifically, Lars) that tried to shut down Napster and file sharing, lighten up! Blah!
3
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Tue Nov 02 2021
Modern Kosmology
Jane Weaver
I admit, I had never heard of Jane Weaver until now. I've never really been into electronica or ambient dream-pop, so for my first listen I didn't care for it. I took a second (more focused) listen (late in the evening) and it paid off. The use of synths and other sounds has a trance-like quality that envelopes you with music full of depth and atmosphere. I didn't think I'd like it, but I'm pleased this album was suggested. I recommend it!
4
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Wed Nov 03 2021
Kings Of The Wild Frontier
Adam & The Ants
I have gone over 40 years without hearing an Adam & The Ants or Adam Ant album. They didn't receive as much of a following on this side of the pond and I never had to desire to listen to band that dressed as pirates or wore warpaint like American Indians. Admittedly, I've probably seen some Adam Ant videos which didn't help. This was the second album from Adam & the Ants and when I actually listened I didn't dislike it. It was infectious and it had some of that punk, new wave edge the band's sound had before Adam went solo. Much better than I expected, but still not a fan.
3
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Thu Nov 04 2021
Go Girl Crazy
The Dictators
An essential proto-punk classic from The Dictators, Go Girl Crazy, has all the hallmarks of great album. Loud, fast and funny as hell, the Dictators definitely don't take themselves too seriously. Often overlooked, this album was very influential and provided a blueprint for many punk bands that followed. Highly recommended, but not for everyone's tastes.
4
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Fri Nov 05 2021
Songs From A Room
Leonard Cohen
Haven't listened to a lot of Leonard Cohen despite the fact the man is a national treasure in my country. The sound is sparse and has shades of early Dylan, but his vocal delivery is unique and his songs express more emotion. The album isn't essential, but the previous record, Songs of Leonard Cohen, his debut is. By comparison, Room is a letdown, but still a solid album. 3.5/5
3
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Mon Nov 08 2021
The Stooges
The Stooges
An excellent debut album from the Stooges, who burn out of the gate with two rocking classics in 1969 and I Wanna Be Your Dog! The momentum and energy slows right down with We Will Fall, which times out for a third of the album, but fortunately the rest of the record redeems itself. Otherwise, this would be 5 stars, plus the next two albums are even better!
4
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Tue Nov 09 2021
Violator
Depeche Mode
Often, based on the band name I have avoided listening to them because I have a preconceived idea what the music will sound like. Depeche Mode, a perfect example! They sound just as I imagined, end of review...actually, I understand why they are popular. The music is infectious and quite dance-able and I don't hate the music, but I will probably avoid it in the future.
3
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Wed Nov 10 2021
All That You Can't Leave Behind
U2
I haven't really been much of a fan of U2 since they broke through to the mainstream and became THE biggest deal worldwide. The band is fine, but I don't care much for Bono, much like Sting, who I feel they believe they are much bigger than their bands, though I know this is true. Despite what my opinion about Bono is, the album, All That You Can't Leave Behind is a surprisingly "back to basics" type of record. Though this album is over 20 years old, I've never listened to it from start to finish and I admit it's very listenable and solid throughout. I'll contribute that to a total band effort! Hope that doesn't hurt your ego too much Bono.
3
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Thu Nov 11 2021
Double Nickels On The Dime
Minutemen
Remember pre-recorded cassettes? I thought they were the greatest thing, you can play them in the car, stroll around with your walkman and it could jam a whole double album on one tape! The problem with these tapes is they were the cheapest of cheap quality. The tape was thin and the longer the time on the tape, the more stretched out and worn the tape got. It eventually will tighten, cease and stop....end! A better option is to buy the vinyl, dub it to a good quality cassette (Maxell, TDK), then you have a home copy and a portable copy. Regrets that I bought the pre-recorded cassette of Double Nickels On the Dime instead of the vinyl in the mid-80's at a record store in the states. An excellent record, probably one of the best double LP's from the 80's that made people realize, punk or post-punk or college rock really was better than the shit that was on the radio! It really was one of those "game changing" records, at least to me. Labels like SST put out some great albums! A classic, highly recommended!!
5
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Fri Nov 12 2021
One Nation Under A Groove
Funkadelic
The cool thing about this 1001 album generator is that it challenges me to listen to music I would otherwise avoid. Funk's not really my thing, so I haven't been exposed to much funk, but I heard that Funkadelic is a great place to start. I'm glad I listened, it was a head-bobbing, FUNky listen alright and this will lead me to sample more from Funkadelic. Really...Thanks generator!
3
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Mon Nov 15 2021
Heaven Or Las Vegas
Cocteau Twins
Didn't think I would like this band and I'm not sure if I do, but this album was better than I expected. I'm not one to enjoy electric drums or dreamy synth pop, the songs were easy to listen to and kept me engaged, but are they memorable? Time will tell.
3
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Tue Nov 16 2021
Hysteria
Def Leppard
Never understood the appeal to Def Leppard. Sure, their music was popular during it's first wave when I was a youth, but I never got into them because I couldn't stand this brand of mainstream, radio-friendly, light-weight wannabee hair metal. There are guys around my age that still listen to DF because it reminds them of their youth and they can't "relate" to newer music. This is almost 35 years ago! Move on, there's lots of way better music in the three and a half decades that followed.
2
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Wed Nov 17 2021
Basket of Light
Pentangle
British folk mixed with a medieval, Renaissance sound that is both interesting and beautiful, at times. Not my type of music, but I can see it would be appropriate for certain situations or if in the proper mood. Not unpleasant.
3
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Thu Nov 18 2021
Slippery When Wet
Bon Jovi
I would die happy if I never had to listen to this album again! For many (definitely NOT me!), this is a defining album from the 80's. If you had to buy one Bon Jovi record, this is the one with the hits that are on constant rotation on "classic rock" radio stations that still play the crap out of this record. Besides the middle-age woman that still believe Jon Bon's hair is magical and karaoke singers that think they're cool drunkenly shouting, Living On A Prayer, who else still listens to this schlock? What's wrong with people? Expand your tastes, there are so many, many, many better albums and bands from the 80's!
2
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Fri Nov 19 2021
Pacific Ocean Blue
Dennis Wilson
I'm not a big fan of the Beach Boys, so before listening to this I didn't know what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised of the depth and the high level of songwriting for this low-key, non-Beach Boys sounding album. Proof that Brian Wilson wasn't the only musical talent in the family and I would prefer to listen to this over most Beach Boys records!
3
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Mon Nov 22 2021
The Genius Of Ray Charles
Ray Charles
I've been getting into "older person" music more recently (because I am becoming an old person) and I wanted to see what all the fuss was about. Maybe a little much in the horns and strings department, but this seems to be the norm in the day, and I'm actually getting use to it and enjoy it. Anyways, a classic record from old Ray!
4
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Tue Nov 23 2021
Risque
CHIC
Back in high school, I attended a concert that featured the smashing of disco records during the height of the disco's popularity in the late 70's. The local rock radio station sponsored the event, which in turn was giving advertising hype for one of their DJ's band that had a "hit" on the station called, Disco's In the Garbage. Us, impressionable teenagers cheered on the spectacle believing our Cheap Trick, Van Halen, Boston, Foreigner tastes were far superior to any disco music because...disco sucks! Embarrassingly looking back and listening with fresh ears now, disco still does suck, but not as much. I understand the appeal and it is very danceable, not doubt, but I can't dance and the music on it's own is just a slicker soul/funk. I'll give this album a couple of stars mainly because this is a more authentic experience than say...the Bee Gees, Andy Gibb or anyone on the Saturday Night Fever album.
2
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Wed Nov 24 2021
Close To The Edge
Yes
I can't say I know a lot about Prog rock, but a quick scan through my record collection reveals I have more than I remember. I only own two Yes albums and both of them I would consider essential, but this is my first listen to Closer To The Edge start to finish. The first thing I noticed is that there are only 3 songs on the original record and the opener, the title track spans over the full side one. Their follow-up album, Tales From Topographic Oceans was a double album with 4 songs, one per side (yikes!). The songs are actually songs within the songs and there is lots going on and in the hands of other less competent musicians this could have been challenging, instead my tastes have evolved and it was not boring and was an enjoyable listen. I will say, yes to exploring other Yes albums in the future.
4
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Thu Nov 25 2021
Germfree Adolescents
X-Ray Spex
So much energy! This record speeds by quickly and it's such a shame the band only released one album during their heyday. Every song reminds me of other songs that came later, which shows how important and influential this record was when it was released. An Essential listen for fans of female-fronted bands of all genres!
4
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Fri Nov 26 2021
Parsley, Sage, Rosemary And Thyme
Simon & Garfunkel
This is the album that elevated S & G from just a folk singing duo to something more special. Apart form the timeless classics, Homeward Bound and Scarborough Fair, the songs on rest of the album, though sometimes dated, are interesting and more engaging than I anticipated. Their follow-up albums would become masterpieces, but this is a good place to start.
4
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Mon Nov 29 2021
Bluesbreakers
John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers
Some white British blues performing blues standards. Some quality playing from Mayall, Clapton, McVie and Flint, but I don't think it lives up to the hype about how influential and important this album is. It's a fine recording, but I wouldn't deem it essential, though that is debatable.
3
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Tue Nov 30 2021
Stories From The City, Stories From The Sea
PJ Harvey
PJ Harvey is one those artists that has been on my radar, as I know a lot of people that think she's great and a very talented artist, but I've actually never have listened to her. My first impression is that I like the songs and enjoy their sound, but it didn't give me that feeling that it was anything beyond a solid album. I was expecting maybe something more edgy or unique that would stand out above other similar artists from the 90's. This record is critically acclaimed and according to many critics it's her best album, so I'll give it more listens and while I'm at it explore her earlier catalogue which to me looks more interesting.
3
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Wed Dec 01 2021
Pretzel Logic
Steely Dan
Finally, an album I own! Steely Dan released some pretty fantastic albums in the 70's and all of them are worth seeking out! At least two of their records, Can't Buy A Thrill and Pretzel Logic I would consider "must hear" and the greatest hits album will fill in the rest. When I was in school when they were at the height of their career, I didn't understand the appeal, but I'm older and wiser now and to me their music exemplifies the best of the mid-70's. Highly recommended!
5
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Thu Dec 02 2021
Arise
Sepultura
If you enjoy rapid machine gun drums, throbbing baselines, roaring vocals and endless repetition on every song, then you would love this album! I'll give it +4 because this might be as good as it gets for this genre of music. Then I'll subtract -3 because I don't like this genre, but add +1 because it has balls and it's not the worst thing I've heard here. (I'm talking to you Def Leopard!)
2
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Fri Dec 03 2021
Songs In The Key Of Life
Stevie Wonder
When I was growing up, hearing these songs on the radio are my first memory of Stevie Wonder. I didn't pay much attention at the time and in the mid-80's in his, "I just Called To Say I Loved You" popularity phase, it was hard to ignore (but I did!) because his music was everywhere! Looking back now, the music from the seventies, his "classic" period, really wasn't that bad. Songs In The Key Of Life is critically acclaimed and award winning, the songs are fine and there was some joy to be had listening to this album. Which I guess means I kinda liked it...
3
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Mon Dec 06 2021
Exile On Main Street
The Rolling Stones
I would regard this as one of the best albums from the Rolling Stones, probably in my top 3, at least. A sprawling double-album, Exile allows the Stones to explore different music different styles and it highlights the band at it's career height, both creatively and musically. This has to be considered one of the greatest double albums of all time, leading off with the highly underrated, Rocks Off and continues to amaze until the end of side 4. Must hear!
5
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Tue Dec 07 2021
Bossanova
Pixies
When I first heard Bossanova when it was released in 1990, I deemed it a disappointment. This album followed the Pixies "best" records, Surfer Rosa and Doolittle, so it was a tough act to follow and though the opening track instrumental sucked me in, I lost interest in the rest of the album. Fast forward to now and listening with fresher (older) ears, I listened To Bossanova, the whole way through, back to back and have to now reconsider my original opinion. The records good, it engaged me and is much better than I remember and it's better than anything else the Pixies released after. If you don't compare it to the previous albums, on it's own it's a solid album. Thanks album generator for letting me re-discover this underrated near-classic!
4
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Wed Dec 08 2021
The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars
David Bowie
I would consider this David Bowie's career-defining masterpiece. When I think of the different phases and musical styles of Bowie's career, I keep coming back to the trio of albums, Hunky Dory, Ziggy and Aladdin Sane recorded with his outstanding band, The Spiders From Mars. All these records are essential and Ziggy is up there with the classic albums of the 70's.
5
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Thu Dec 09 2021
Music From The Penguin Cafe
Penguin Cafe Orchestra
After the previous classic rock posts, this one came as a surprise. I had not heard the Penguin Cafe Orchestra so this was a first time listen. At times, the music was fresh and uplifting and this sometimes came across as a experimental orchestral soundtrack score. I can't say I disliked it and actually it's very pleasant background music, but as a "must hear", I'm not so sure.
3
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Fri Dec 10 2021
Antichrist Superstar
Marilyn Manson
I really don't care about what the Christian right or what homeland security thinks about Marilyn Manson's "music", the bottom line is it sucks! You can pile on as much anti-Christ bullshit, vile and hateful devil crap you want, but it doesn't make it more listenable. In fact, I found it at times unlistenable, stupid and annoying. If this is so-called "shock" rock, give me Alice Cooper, at least he had a sense of humor. Don't support this sick, creepy loser!
1
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Mon Dec 13 2021
S&M
Metallica
A live album with Metallica and a symphony orchestra? Is this a joke? Heavy metal with symphonic orchestration sounds crazy, but actually it's not bad and even with my distaste in Metallica I listened to the whole (a bit too long) concert. The music from the San Francisco Symphony sounds like a James Bond soundtrack, which isn't a bad thing.
3
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Tue Dec 14 2021
On The Beach
Neil Young
Neil Young recorded some great, good, decent, weird and horrible records during his career and On The Beach stands among his best. I never fully appreciated this album until more recently because I previously didn't gave it a full listen. There's no doubt his finest decade was the 70's, when he recorded and released his most classic records. This album is a low-key release from this era, without much commercial fanfare, but the depth and strength of the songwriting is undeniable.
4
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Wed Dec 15 2021
Live At The Witch Trials
The Fall
A refreshingly raw sounding album for The Fall's debut. I didn't know what to expect as I haven't listened to much from The Fall, and it was a pleasant surprise. A good punk record. I quite liked it, not loved, but I'll listen to more from the band!
3
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Thu Dec 16 2021
The Last Broadcast
Doves
Glad I took the time to listen to this album. Had no idea what Doves would sound like and I was impressed. Solid indie-Brit pop with some fine songs and not really any bad ones, which is a good thing!
4
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Fri Dec 17 2021
A Nod Is As Good As A Wink To A Blind Horse
Faces
Say what you want about Rod Stewart's career, but he in fact was a great blues and rock vocalist with the Jeff Beck Group and when he and Ron Wood left to join some ex-Small Faces to form the Faces. This was Stewart and Wood at their best (I prefer Wood's guitar work with the Faces than with the Stones) and A Nod Is As Good...was a high point for the band. The band was drunken and sloppy live, but their studio albums were classic records. Wood's guitar work is exceptional on Nod and Stewart never sounded better. The same band would also record on Stewart's early albums, so in reality the Faces produced a lot of great, memorable albums.
5
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Mon Dec 20 2021
Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music
Ray Charles
Not really a fan of musicians interpreting music genres that are not their usual forte and in this case Ray Charles' modern take of country and western. Don't get me wrong, he doesn't put on a cowboy hat and strum an acoustic guitar, instead it gets the grandiose treatment with horns and strings. At times, it's a bit overdone and hard to listen to after a while, but overall his treatment of the songs and his performance makes it a worthwhile listen.
3
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Tue Dec 21 2021
The Köln Concert
Keith Jarrett
I've been slowly gaining an appreciation for jazz and I'm very happy this album was on the list of 1001 albums because I hadn't heard it before. Live improvised piano piece isn't something my younger self would have tolerated, so I listened with a open mind and open ears. A wonderful way to spend an hour or so, though it was background music while I was painting (art, not walls). It was a perfect mood for creating. Enjoyable listen!
4
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Wed Dec 22 2021
Back to Mystery City
Hanoi Rocks
If I judged this record by the album cover photo alone, I would had given this a hard pass! It was produced by a couple ex-Mott the Hooples (NOT Ian Hunter or Mick Ronson), so it slightly has their sound, as well as maybe the NY Dolls and some riffs from the Dictators, though not done nearly as good as those bands. Parody at best, I expected worse, but they can still go back to mystery city, please.
2
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Thu Dec 23 2021
New Gold Dream (81/82/83/84)
Simple Minds
Never really cared for Simple Minds back in the day and listening to this now doesn't change my opinion. Nothing for me here as their music has always been meh. Let's move on...
2
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Fri Dec 24 2021
Blonde On Blonde
Bob Dylan
Personally, I consider this album to be the Bob Dylan's, magnum opus. Blonde On Blonde is one of the greatest double albums of all time, right up there with Exile On Main St., The White Album and The Wall. Essential!
5
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Mon Dec 27 2021
A Christmas Gift For You From Phil Spector
Various Artists
I'm not usually a fan of Christmas records, though the Ventures and Los Straitjackets do a smash-up job with their instro-versions. That being said, I was skeptical and though some of the songs are a little too sappy for my taste, there are some great songs on here. A bonus star for the spoken-work message to end the record from producer/convicted murderer, Phil "the kill" Spector. Boy, have times changed!
3
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Tue Dec 28 2021
Iron Maiden
Iron Maiden
Not a fan, but it wasn't as bad as I expected. The instrumentals were fine, so the less vocals the better. The sound was rawer than I expected, more of a punk feel, which is a good thing.
3
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Wed Dec 29 2021
Queen Of Denmark
John Grant
Never heard of this before, so i didn't know what to expect. Enjoyed it!
3
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Thu Dec 30 2021
Abattoir Blues / The Lyre of Orpheus
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
An epic album, at least in length, but really highlights Cave's strengths as a songwriter and performer. Bowie-esque in parts, but still a distinct and unique sound.
4
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Fri Dec 31 2021
Every Good Boy Deserves Fudge
Mudhoney
Though Mudhoney has never lived up to the hype of their first Sub Pop singles, they have carved out a rather successful career. Their early grunge work is what I remember best of Mudhoney and EGBDF might be their best album. A solid record in any era!
4
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Mon Jan 03 2022
Crooked Rain Crooked Rain
Pavement
Despite bands such as Nirvana and Green Day, Pavement was one of the most important bands from the 90's. Crooked Rain is my favourite Pavement album and it confirms that Stephen Malkmus is one of the best songwriters of his generation. A classic record, definitely a must hear!
5
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Tue Jan 04 2022
In A Silent Way
Miles Davis
I'm a novice for jazz, but this one is a no-brainer as far as classic jazz records. Haven't listened to a lot of Miles, but with the help of music streaming services, this will change. A nice way to spend an hour in the afternoon!
4
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Wed Jan 05 2022
Nowhere
Ride
Another band that's been under my radar and they sound kinda like what I expected. Nothing special, but an enjoyable listen and I should listen to more of their stuff.
3
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Thu Jan 06 2022
Automatic For The People
R.E.M.
I divide up R.E.M.'s career in 3 eras, the I.R.S indie-ish albums, the mainstream (MTV) fame years and the after-fame albums. Automatic is smack dab in the middle of the peak fame years. I started to lose interest in the band after Document, but you can't deny the band produced some great records. This one has some well known hits, but I still prefer the days of Reckoning and Life's Rich Pageant.
3
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Fri Jan 07 2022
I’ve Got a Tiger By the Tail
Buck Owens
I'm generally not a fan of country music, but I don't mind some older country from the 50's and 60's. On this Buck Owens record, you can hear how influential this music was to aspiring musicians at the time. The tunes are fun and even I can listen to some hillbilly music sometimes.
3
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Mon Jan 10 2022
Songs From The Big Chair
Tears For Fears
When the album first came out, radio was inundated with so much airplay for Tears For Fears I hated this record. Overexposure on radio and music video does translate to huge record sales, but it also pisses off music fans that know there is lots of other music that should be heard. Listening now, the music does have a nostalgic effect, but I am quick to wake up and put on my turntable much better music from the period that gives me a good feeling instead of a feeling of being stuck in an era and decade that produced a lot of crap!
2
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Tue Jan 11 2022
Sound of Silver
LCD Soundsystem
Don't listen to a lot of electronic music, so it's hard for me to judge. Sounds fine to me!
3
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Wed Jan 12 2022
Skylarking
XTC
XTC released a lot of memorable records in the 80's and Skylarking might be their masterpiece. It's a lush sounding album that highlights the band at their height of creativity. Not a record full of hits, it's a consistent, solid album that flows beautifully and Dear God is one the most interesting (and greatest) songs the band has ever produced!
5
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Thu Jan 13 2022
Kenya
Machito
Another performer and album I'm not familiar with. That being said, it was an enjoyable listen, though I didn't love it. I really should expand my musical range and listen to more of this genre, then I might appreciate it more.
3
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Fri Jan 14 2022
Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1
George Michael
Some of my most annoying earworms from the 80's were courtesy of George Michael. Faith, I Want Your Sex and anything from his former band, Wham! and the accompanying videos, I couldn't stand! I must admit when I listened to Listen Without Prejudice in 2022, it was a more sympathetic listen as the songs and vibe are a little more sombre and toned down than his previous hit record. The song Freedom! 90 may evoke a different emotion for me now than when it released over 30 years ago. The record isn't awful and listening without prejudice to the whole thing gives me perhaps a slightly different perspective on the man instead of just a "pop star".
3
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Mon Jan 17 2022
The Slider
T. Rex
The Slider features the icon cover photo taken by (supposedly?) Ringo Starr, is the follow-up album to T-Rex's classic, Electric Warrior. Musically, this feels like a sequel, with a similar sound to Warrior. The songs are accessible and enjoyable, but a feel it's a slight step back quality-wise. Still a great album, well worth seeking out! It's funny, I had this on the turntable last week, so it was fresh on my mind.
4
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Tue Jan 18 2022
Live 1966 (The Royal Albert Hall Concert)
Bob Dylan
As a big fan of live concert recording, you can't deny the importance and significance of this live concert from Dylan. Musically, the first disc is Bob, solo acoustic and the second disc features Dylan electric with the band with songs from his previous releases. What a performance! In my opinion, this is Dylan at his best and I'm sure glad this show was recorded! Thank you bootleggers!
5
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Wed Jan 19 2022
Queen II
Queen
There were basically two stages to Queen's career. The early British hard rocking band of their first three albums, then after Night At the Opera, the mainstream radio friendly hit machine. I must admit, I love Opera, it's an all-time classic and what precedes it gave us hints of what was to come. The band was always a strong vocal band, but they also rocked hard, especially on Queen II with a touches of prog and art rock. They were starting to develop their sound and though there were no "hits", most of the songs were solid. Fans of their later work will not like this.
3
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Thu Jan 20 2022
Paul's Boutique
Beastie Boys
I don't have many regrets as far as choices I've made for my music collection (LPs, CDs, tapes etc.). One regret I do have is trading my Beastie Boys cassette of Paul's Boutique for a Mick Jagger (?) CD. What was I thinking?! At the time, I wasn't a fan of rap (still not really a fan), but what I was missing out was an important piece of music from the still relevant BB's that many consider an essential listen. This is the first time I listened all the way through and it was very enjoyable. Some of my music tastes have changed, (or evolved?) and I'm more open now to more styles of music. Thankfully with music streaming sites I don't have to re-buy the tape for another listen.
4
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Fri Jan 21 2022
BEYONCÉ
Beyoncé
I never really understood the hype surrounding Beyonce, sure she has a good voice, but I tend to think her massive appeal and commercial success is more attributed to Beyonce the "product", rather than just the music. I'm always suspicious when you hear about an artist's personal life just as much as their music. I hadn't listened to her music more than what I've been force-fed on the radio and music videos and she is what she is. A above-average singer, with an above average hype machine behind her = the greatest singer of her generation...yeah, right.
3
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Mon Jan 24 2022
Talking Heads 77
Talking Heads
A very important album released when punk and New Wave were on it's verge, contrasted by the threat of disco taking over the airwaves. The Talking Heads, lead by David Byrne emerged from the New York city punk scene playing the dingy clubs such as, CBGB's and Max's that formed a music community of talented and previously unheard artists. The beauty of the first Talking Heads album is it's simplicity, the sound and songs were straight forward, they were unique though, especially Byrne's jittery vocal style and angular guitar sound and Byrne's guitar playing is highly underrated! Though the Heads gained more commercial success as the band's sound expanded into other genre's, Talking Heads 77 will always be considered a landmark record!
5
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Tue Jan 25 2022
The Marshall Mathers LP
Eminem
Can't decide if this album is Eminem's justification of being a douche bag or more proof that he is. It's so over the top offensive on so many levels it borders on an attempt at comedy or parody and clearly, Eminem is trying way too hard to be taken seriously. I feel justified for dismissing him for all these years because it is as horrible as I thought it would be.
1
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Wed Jan 26 2022
Trafalgar
Bee Gees
For many years before the Bee Gees hit it big with the Saturday Night Fever soundtrack and became huge disco stars, the Bee Gees had a full career already in the 60's and early 70's. I admit I own a couple pre-SNF albums and they're pretty good. Keep the image of the Gibbs in tight pants out of your mind when you listen to Trafalgar and you'll be fine. The album has it's moments, but some of the songs are rather dull. All and all, a decent album which is typical for their "early works".
3
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Thu Jan 27 2022
Abbey Road
Beatles
The first Beatles album I bought was the "Blue" record (1967-1970), this along with it's companion ("Red" 1962-1966) are the perfect entry level compilation records to introduce new Beatles fans to most of their hits. To really give you an idea of the range of the band's music, you must seek out most of their studio albums which are very good to brilliant, as sometimes it's the deeper cuts that deserve some attention. I've owned a copy of Abbey Road since the late-70's and it still gets plays on my turntable. Since I've heard the popular tracks so much (Come Together, Something, Here Comes The Sun), I have been known to skip those tracks for the rest of the record. It's these "secondary" tracks that give Abbey Road so much depth in quality. In fact, this has probably the best side 2 of any record I've heard highlighted by the medley that concludes the album. So good! Undoubtedly, this is the Beatles masterpiece!
5
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Fri Jan 28 2022
James Brown Live At The Apollo
James Brown
Not really a James Brown fan, but you can't deny the legacy of the man and the energy of this album. Some performers thrive with live performances and clearly with this and other Apollo live recordings, he is at the top of his game in front of a live audience. He truly is the hardest working man in show biz!
3
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Mon Jan 31 2022
KIWANUKA
Michael Kiwanuka
Good solid album. I had never heard of Kiwanuka before and his sound is a refreshing change from the usual. Curious to hear more.
3
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Tue Feb 01 2022
Diamond Life
Sade
When this album originally hit the airwaves I was so narrowly focused on rock, some mainstream, some not, but especially trying to avoid anything that wasn't rock on the radio. I have since expanded my musical palate and can appreciate this genre of smooth jazz that has a time and place. I always think of smooth jazz as a "pop"-gateway towards "real" jazz that introduces the masses to how potentially commercial this music can be. For me Sade was my introduction to smooth jazz and listening now I can't say I don't like it. Again, it has a time and place and if you want to create a mood of romance and serenity, Diamond Life is definitely your record. Oh, and Valentines is coming up so cue up your Sade albums. Smooth operator, indeed.
3
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Wed Feb 02 2022
Buffalo Springfield Again
Buffalo Springfield
Buffalo Springfield was most notable for helping launch Neil Young's career. Buffalo Springfield Again is without doubt a very good album, though Young's contributions were kind of minimal with two of his tracks recorded solo, but it does contain one of Young's great tracks, Mr. Soul. To not take away the contribution of the other members of the band, the record suffers from inconsistency and wasn't quite as great as I remember. That being said, this is an important piece of 60's rock history that is the beginnings of something greater (CSN&Y and Neil solo), that can't be denied.
4
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Thu Feb 03 2022
Debut
Björk
Dear Bjork,
When this album was released I tried to listen and embrace it, but it just didn't click with me and couldn't get past the sound of your voice. I also tried listening to your previous band, the Sugarcubes and as much as I wanted to like it, I couldn't. I realize your music has put Iceland on the global radar as a hotbed for cultural talent, so I feel I should give your music another try and thanks to this 1001 albums challenge I'm having another listen. Sorry, this still doesn't do anything for me, I'm trying to be open-minded, but I just don't care for it. You deserve the accolades you have received because you are clearly talented and unique and you have a dedicated and passionate fan-base so you are truly doing something special. I promise i will try again in maybe...30 years (or sooner), so thank you for your music.
Sincerely yours, TDIT
2
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Fri Feb 04 2022
Out Of The Blue
Electric Light Orchestra
I was never really been a fan of ELO's synthesized sound and some of the production Jeff Lynne did for other artists, but they produced enough good songs to make me feel nostalgic every time I hear them. Each of their early albums had a few songs worth listening to and definitely Out Of The Blue is the most fulfilling. They had quite a bit of radio play during this time and they were popular enough I felt I didn't need to buy the record (if that makes sense?). The best songs are super catchy and I've heard Mr. Blue Sky more in the past couple of years than ever before. It must have appeared on some movie soundtracks or TV shows or something, anyways it's a great song!
4
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Mon Feb 07 2022
21
Adele
Sometimes when an artist is super popular whether it's a hype job or they genuinely are a talent that everyone should listen to, I tend to avoid it. Too much boy band and too much fabricated "American Idol-like singers out there competing for everyone's attention. After finally listening to the full album of Adele's, 21, I really think she is genuinely a talent worth listening to. Personally, her music doesn't interest me much, but I recognize she deserves the accolades she receives. This isn't something I'd toss on the turntable at random, but if it's on the radio I won't switch stations.
3
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Tue Feb 08 2022
If You Can Believe Your Eyes & Ears
The Mamas & The Papas
This is one of those albums that evokes a feeling of nostalgia and a time capsule-ness of late 60's hippy/folk-era. The quality of the harmonies are unmistakably perfect and though this contains some classic songs (Monday, Monday, California Dreaming), there could have been more consistency, especially with it's selection of covers. That being said, If You Believe Your Eyes & Ears is the essential release from the Mamas & The Papas and California Dreaming is the perfect song to help warm me up with because the place where I live drops to -30 or colder..."on such a winters day"
4
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Wed Feb 09 2022
Zombie
Fela Kuti
Interesting listen, not usually the type of music I listen to, but it kept my attention all the way through. I especially like the instrumentals and the Afro-beats are so infectious and energetic, it brought warmth to my otherwise chilly day! Nice!
4
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Thu Feb 10 2022
Clube Da Esquina
Milton Nascimento
Note to self: listen to more Brazilian music! I had not heard this before and I was pleasantly surprised. A relaxing and soothing listen, though a little long, had me longing to listen to other Brazilian artists as well.
4
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Fri Feb 11 2022
Live At The Harlem Square Club
Sam Cooke
This recording has all the attributes of a good solid live album. The recording is clear and upfront, the crowd is engaged, loud and present (not too screamy loud, like a Beatles concert), the vocals are raw and emotional, the songs don't sound exactly like the studio versions, a great setlist and it actually sounds like a live concert. This surprised me because I had only heard the studio versions of Cooke's songs and live they are transported to another level. The raw, raspiness of Cooke's vocals is reminiscent to Rod Stewart's vocal delivery and obviously Stewart was heavily influenced by Cooke. Stewart's cover of Twisting The Night Away is clearly a tribute to Sam Cooke. I love this record, one of the better live concert albums out there, it's crazy it took so long to get a proper release!
4
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Mon Feb 14 2022
Revolver
Beatles
Along with Abbey Road and maybe Rubber Soul, I consider Revolver one of my favourite Beatles's albums. There's so much going on with a wide range of styles and an increased contribution from all the members. The Beatle's sound was rapidly evolving and after this album, the band settled into the studio and continued to expand and innovate their sound. This has a few hits (Taxman, Eleanor Rigby and Yellow Sub), but really it's a collection of lower key classics that makes this a very solid listen.
5
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Tue Feb 15 2022
The College Dropout
Kanye West
First of all, I dislike Kayne West, the person, his politics, his ego and his whole arrogant persona. Secondly, I dislike his music and I absolutely can't stand any "music" that overuses auto-tune, and for that matter, ANY music that uses auto-tune! Thirdly, I don't hate it as much as I could have, because there are some redeeming qualities to it as his full blown ego hasn't taken over yet. I haven't fully listened to any of his followup records, but they must be worst. Fourthly, anyone married (past or present) to a Kardashian gets minus (-) stars. Fifthly, the guy in the bear suit gets a star for looking how I feel after listening to this album.
2
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Wed Feb 16 2022
Ingenue
k.d. lang
On Lang's second solo record, her transformation from a goofy country and western singer with her band, The Reclines to a cabaret-style, crooner pop singer was complete. Gone are the wire glasses and long skirts and colourful dresses to be replaced with a androgynous look with a boyish hair cut and tailored suit jackets. In some ways I preferred her cowpunk phase, but I was never a fan of Lang in either persona. She does have a great voice and she puts it to maximum use on this album which probably contains some of her best known songs. Not really my taste, but it's listenable and she deserves the accolades and awards from this album.
3
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Thu Feb 17 2022
I Should Coco
Supergrass
Really enjoyed it! Super catchy and melodic, this is the kind of music that brings a smile to my face. I guess I should listen to more Supergrass!
4
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Fri Feb 18 2022
The Gilded Palace Of Sin
The Flying Burrito Brothers
I'm not usually a fan of country and western, but the Gram Parsons and the Burrito Brothers had a different approach to the genre. While the music has styling of folk and country, they also fused in elements of gospel, soul and rock. The results are heard on this album and were influential to the country-rock genre and alt-country rock bands from the late 80's and 90's. They owe a lot of their influence from this record. Gram Parson proved in his short tragic career that quality over quantity was more important and Gilded Palace is a good starting point when examining Parson's career.
4
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Mon Feb 21 2022
Illmatic
Nas
Yo, I can't pretend I understand or can relate to this music, but I don't hate it and I can listen to it. I probably won't again, it's just that it's not my kind of music. Ya know what I'm saying...
2
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Tue Feb 22 2022
Remain In Light
Talking Heads
Though I thought I would prefer the band's earlier stripped down sound, Remain In Light is a turning point for the band musically. The additional musicians and a wider range of sound gives the band a full sound that shows how the band has grown both creatively and production-wise. Not my favourite Talking Heads record, but perhaps the most interesting.
4
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Wed Feb 23 2022
Melody A.M.
Röyksopp
This is some pretty chill mood music, though one step up from background music. Very listenable.
3
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Thu Feb 24 2022
The Age Of The Understatement
The Last Shadow Puppets
This has a very lavish sound and feel to it, with nods to the 60's and 70's. I quite like it and it grabs your attention and sucks you in because it's consistent and enjoyable throughout. Well done!
4
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Fri Feb 25 2022
Elephant Mountain
The Youngbloods
Low-key and was better than I expected. Actually, I didn't know what to expect, I was always curious how the Youngbloods sounded and they are mellowed than I thought they'd be, but it has a nice groove to it. An interesting listen, for sure.
3
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Mon Feb 28 2022
Achtung Baby
U2
Not a big fan of U2, but if I had to listen to a U2 album this would be the one. Critically acclaimed and loved by fans, it contains many of their best known hits, I didn't feel a need to turn it off.
3
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Tue Mar 01 2022
The Who Sell Out
The Who
I feel this is the Who's most enjoyable albums to listen to. The first of many concept records from Townsend and the band and this one particularly works...well almost. Side one is great, mixing in the fake commercials with some top notch songs, this is my favourite side one from the Who. Unfortunately, it loses a bit a stream on side two and never quite flows as well, otherwise this would be 5 stars. The later riff during Rael is heard on the next album (Tommy) and the band's sound is evolving from garage to pop psych. This is the beginning of a great run of Who albums.
4
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Wed Mar 02 2022
The ArchAndroid
Janelle Monáe
Not really my genre of music, but it has an infectious energy that keeps it interesting. There's some good songs on here and is worth exploring more.
3
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Thu Mar 03 2022
Melodrama
Lorde
Music doesn't do much for me. It was playing, but it didn't capture my attention so I wasn't listening very carefully. I'll give an extra star for the cover artwork which I like, much better than the music on the album.
3
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Fri Mar 04 2022
Electric Warrior
T. Rex
Electric Warrior has to be considered the quintessential Glam Rock album that was hugely influential to many musicians, especially David Bowie. The band's sound evolved from folk-rock to a more electric rock sound. Get It On (Bang A Gong) is one of those songs you seem to hear everywhere, but the rest of the album is solid with just as many memorable songs on it. Definitely essential to any fan of 70's rock, a classic!
5
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Mon Mar 07 2022
Here's Little Richard
Little Richard
Some good old fashioned rock 'n' roll, the way it was meant to be heard. Raw, charged and full of energy, this was Little Richard at his best!
3
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Tue Mar 08 2022
American Beauty
Grateful Dead
I actually haven't listened to a lot of Grateful Dead albums, so I didn't know what to expect. This one has several songs I'm familiar with and it has a nice mellow country-rock vibe throughout. I'll probably listen to more albums around this time period because I quite like it, but I'm not interested in becoming a Deadhead anytime soon.
4
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Wed Mar 09 2022
The Sun Rises In The East
Jeru The Damaja
Seems like standard old school rap/hip hop to my untrained rap ear. Nothing really stands out for me, but it doesn't turn me off like some rap does. It's okay...
3
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Thu Mar 10 2022
Van Halen
Van Halen
The summer of 1979 was my first full summer of going to arena-sized rock concerts seeing bands like, Cheap Trick, Supertramp and Van Halen. This was an eye-opening and ear splitting experience that forever secured my love for live concerts. The sheer energy and captive stage presence of Eddie Van Halen and David Lee Roth was mind-melting, at the time and it set my standards pretty high of what a great rock concert should be. Though I can't say I'm still a band of Van Halen, I must admit their first album was very influential on so many levels and it is must be considered one of the great debut records of the 70's. The instrumental, Eruption introduced the world to the guitar wizardry of Eddie Van Halen and if you love guitar, this is essential. Listening to it now (loud), brings back a lot of happy memories, but I'm glad I expanded my music tastes after the first couple Van Halen albums because they became a shell of their former self and self-parody later in their long career. Still, this a must-hear!
4
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Fri Mar 11 2022
Da Capo
Love
Some good songs on this one, but as a whole it didn't grab me and pull me in like I thought it would. A fine document of some late 60's psych-pop-rock and it gets kind of jammy to conclude the record. Nice touch.
3
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Mon Mar 14 2022
Born In The U.S.A.
Bruce Springsteen
Though I don't think this is Springsteen's best record, it was definitely his most popular, best selling and most commercially successful album. The Boss had broken through into the mainstream (if he hadn't already), not just Springsteen fans, but a whole new younger audience that were swayed by the popular music videos they're were for this record. The dance-worthy, Dancing in the Dark, was his biggest hit (there were 7 top ten singles on the album) despite being one of the least-Springsteen-ish sounding songs of his career. A huge tour followed and the American (and world-wide) public couldn't get enough! Apparently, Bruce did because he never released an album afterwards that was anything as accessible and hit-worthy as Born In The U.S.A.
4
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Tue Mar 15 2022
The Modern Lovers
The Modern Lovers
Truly a classic record that introduced the world to Jonathan Richman. This version of the Modern Lovers was much different than Richman's later incarnations of the Modern Lovers, almost a one-off that rocked harder than anything Richman would ever release. Much more of a band-format, this debut album featured future members of the Talking Heads (Jerry Harrison) and the Cars (David Robinson). It's a very influential record and proto-punk classic, it has to be considered one of the great art rock albums!
5
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Wed Mar 16 2022
Quiet Life
Japan
Though I'm a fan of some New Wave, this veers more towards Techno-pop and feels a bit too pretentious to me. There are some good songs that have a bit of a Roxy Music/Bowie and maybe even Duran Duran vibe to it, so it did grow on me. The cover photo would probably stop me from listening, but I'm glad I took a listen.
3
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Thu Mar 17 2022
Rapture
Anita Baker
She's got an excellent voice and puts it to good use on this album. I'm just not a fan of this style of music, but I'll still listen. Some okay songs, but I have no need to buy this. Thank you streaming sites.
3
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Fri Mar 18 2022
Buena Vista Social Club
Buena Vista Social Club
A refreshing listen from music that should be heard. I never got around to listening to this when it was released and it's the type of music I appreciate more now. A very pleasant afternoon spent transcended to Buena Vista. Nice!
4
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Mon Mar 21 2022
Horses
Patti Smith
This is one of those albums that are so career defining and important, it should be heard by everyone. When I bought this album back in the early 80's or so, I have to admit I didn't take to it right away. It's an intense listen and it's not for everyone, but again it should be heard. It's a "game-changer" in so many ways and changed the way feminism and woman's issues were viewed by mainstream culture and music. Another defining moment in the 70's. Enough babble, have a listen!
5
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Tue Mar 22 2022
Murmur
R.E.M.
Personally, Murmur was one of those life-changing records that shifted the direction of my music tastes. R.E.M.'s sound was refreshing and much needed. Around this time I discovered other like-minded bands, the Replacements, Husker Du, Violent Femmes, etc. ,bands outside mainstream radio (college rock) and this music was the reason the 80's actually had some great music. I'll always have a special place for the first four R.E.M. records (especially the first two) in my collection and all of them are essential listens!
5
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Wed Mar 23 2022
Behaviour
Pet Shop Boys
Never been a fan of the Pet Shop Boys and probably never will be. Listening to most of the album is the most I've listened to them in one sitting and though it was fine, couldn't really keep my attention. Some songs had a nice beat to it and could get into it, but most of the music had a sameness and blah appeal for me. Blah...
2
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Thu Mar 24 2022
White Ladder
David Gray
An enjoyable listen. Nothing really jumps out and the songs are fine, but his vocals are rich and strong and overall a solid record.
3
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Fri Mar 25 2022
Woodface
Crowded House
A solid sounding record, I enjoy their sound, but nothing really stands out for me. I'm not a big fan, but this has me curious enough to re-visit their earlier albums and re-listen to this one again.
3
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Mon Mar 28 2022
Dry
PJ Harvey
An amazing debut album that introduced us to the incredible PJ Harvey. Her longevity in music has proven this record was no fluke. A raw, rocking album! I haven't heard the demo version of the album yet, but I will for sure now!
4
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Tue Mar 29 2022
You Want It Darker
Leonard Cohen
I really didn't understand the appeal of Leonard Cohen until i listened to some of his earlier records, which I thought were quite good. Later in his career, he had a bit of an revival and attracted new fans and treated his old fans with new material. This music i have less interest in, unless you're old and/or female, it's not for me. Listenable, but I prefer his back catalog.
3
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Wed Mar 30 2022
Live At Leeds
The Who
When you think of great live albums, Live At Leeds is always in the conversation. Not only did the Who release excellent studio records, they were an amazing live band. I had this on cassette back in the early 80's and it got to many listens, I wore out the tape. I thought at the time, I wish the album was longer and there must have been other songs during the set. After listening to the deluxe edition that contained the whole concert, I take back my earlier concerns. The whole show which was during the "Tommy" era, contained lots of songs from that record, which is fine, but it loses some of it's energy. I can now see why the original Live At Leeds album was edited down, it's so much more powerful and dynamic with the shorter track list and it remains (to me anyways), a landmark live album. (I would give the deluxe edition 4****)
5
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Thu Mar 31 2022
You're Living All Over Me
Dinosaur Jr.
This was the first Dinosaur Jr record I heard so it set the standard high for their subsequent releases and this remains my favourite album of theirs. It's loud, noisy and it hits hard. It's not a perfect record by any stretch, but it came at a time when alternative music was starting to get attention, pre-grunge, pre-Nirvana and it gave me hope that music was more than pretty faces, pretty songs and pretty boring music. I still listen to this album, a lot and if you do, play it loud, loud LOUD!
5
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Fri Apr 01 2022
Nighthawks At The Diner
Tom Waits
A really interesting album. Waits does a jazzy, spoken word/talking "live" performance complete with a nightclub atmosphere. Waits is brilliant, funny and very engaging spoken with his trademark gravelly voice. The music is low key and quite good. I really enjoyed it, but it might not hold up to repeated plays and he has better records.
4
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Mon Apr 04 2022
Marcus Garvey
Burning Spear
Generally, I'm not a big fan of reggae, sometimes there's too much repetition for my liking, but this album is so old school and straight up reggae, I like it a lot. Easy to groove to, a very pleasurable laid-back listen.
3
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Tue Apr 05 2022
Wish You Were Here
Pink Floyd
Considering this is the follow-up album to Pink Floyd's masterpiece, Dark Side Of the Moon the expectations were huge with this record. I always felt, Wish You Were Here was the low-key classic, that in many ways is just as good or even better than Dark Side. I heard a lot of this music in my late teens and of course, it still holds up today. I feel I should explore their earlier works to fairly compare all their albums. One of their best regardless and one of the better albums of the 70's, for sure!
5
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Wed Apr 06 2022
Rattlesnakes
Lloyd Cole And The Commotions
Sounds okay, but never would consider this to be "must hear". Easy to listen to and has some fine moments, but really there are other more worthy Brit-Pop band that could make the list. I did enjoy it though.
3
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Thu Apr 07 2022
Rumours
Fleetwood Mac
Definitely in that category of great albums from the 70's, even of all-time on some people's lists. When it was released and dominated the radio waves with it's many hits, I tried to avoid getting caught up in the hype of Fleetwood Mac and didn't buy the album. Listening now, the record brings me waves of nostalgia and some weird fuzzy feeling when you think back to your youth...That being said, it is a classic record, but there are other amazing albums that should receive at least half the attention this one did then and now, during it's recent revived interest.
4
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Fri Apr 08 2022
good kid, m.A.A.d city
Kendrick Lamar
Nothing wrong with this record, it's listenable, though it doesn't do much for me specifically. There are some good songs on it and I didn't feel the need to turn it off, but there's only so much you can take hearing voice mail messages from someone else's mother.
3
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Mon Apr 11 2022
Harvest
Neil Young
This has to be considered one of Neil Young's best known and top-selling records. Lots of great songs on here and though I don't regard this his best or my favourite album of Young's, this is a classic. I still prefer his "rocker" albums.
4
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Tue Apr 12 2022
Bryter Layter
Nick Drake
A beautiful sounding record. I've been meaning to discover his music and this was the perfect excuse to listen. I need to hear more from Drake (no, not that Drake!), highly recommended!
4
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Wed Apr 13 2022
Smile
Brian Wilson
A fast-paced, epic record from music icon, Brian Wilson. This concept record's tracks seem to blend into one another, there are some great songs on here, though it's a bit of a jumble at times. Not really a big fan of the Beach Boys, but enjoyed it and glad this finally got a real release!
4
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Thu Apr 14 2022
Seventeen Seconds
The Cure
Didn't know exactly what I was expecting, but it was better than I expected, I actually didn't mind it. Stark, ambient at times, it's not exactly "hit-worthy" music, but there is some substance to it. Okay, but not essential by any means.
3
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Fri Apr 15 2022
Younger Than Yesterday
The Byrds
Though I don't consider this the Byrd's best album, it's still very significant and has a lot of good songs it. There is however more filler than on previous records and at the time is was overlooked, but it ages well today. The Byrd's are exploring more musical styles, for better or worse, so overall it's a solid record.
4
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Mon Apr 18 2022
Endtroducing.....
DJ Shadow
Not really my genre, but I didn't mind it. Very pleasant background music, but never engaged me beyond that. Enjoyable!
3
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Tue Apr 19 2022
At Folsom Prison
Johnny Cash
Don't have much Johnny Cash records, but, At Folsom Prison is my absolute favorite! What can be better than Johnny performing in front of prisoners at a prison with a set of "appeasing the audience" appropriate songs ! Wow, still a classic!
4
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Wed Apr 20 2022
Joan Baez
Joan Baez
I realize the historical significance of the release of this album and the lasting influence Joan Baez has been since the 60's, but I can't honestly say I enjoy it that much. Her music and her singing is fine, I just need to hear her in small doses.
3
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Thu Apr 21 2022
Nick Of Time
Bonnie Raitt
I didn't realize Bonnie Raitt had released so many records previously, as this is her tenth album, but I knew this her comeback album. Easy to listen to and so many familiar songs I had forgotten about, though kind of generic at the same time. Enjoyable enough, I'll probably listen to more from Bonnie in the near future.
3
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Fri Apr 22 2022
Darkdancer
Les Rythmes Digitales
Not a fan of techno or electronica or funk or whatever this genre is, but I can't say I hate it. Okay as background music, but the chances of me digging this up for another listen are slim to none.
2
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Mon Apr 25 2022
Halcyon Digest
Deerhunter
Nice to see some indie-rock bands here instead of just older classic rock albums. This record has it moments and there are some good songs here, but overall it didn't capture my attention as much I had hoped. Good effort, so I will listen to more from the band.
3
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Tue Apr 26 2022
Chirping Crickets
Buddy Holly & The Crickets
The debut and only album recorded when Buddy was alive (which is quite surprising!) is a rock' n ' roll classic! This record pretty much has the essential songs that made Holly a legend, but if you want a wider look at his career (to be), greatest hits packages will cover that. Short and sweet!
4
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Wed Apr 27 2022
Brothers In Arms
Dire Straits
When I bought this album when it was first released, I was so anxious to hear it I zoomed home to play it! Unfortunately disappointment, the opening track, So Far Away skipped on the turntable and without listening to the rest, I immediately exchanged it for another...then it happened again...anyways, third time was a charm! The opening three songs were amazing and most of the album as a whole was good, but it started to lose me towards the end. Dire Straits most commercially successful album and their last great record, but in my opinion, not their best. It still brings back memories of happier times of playing records, reading the liner notes, listening with headphones in your parents house and avoiding music videos. :)
4
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Thu Apr 28 2022
The Score
Fugees
A really good record that was easy to listen to and digest. I especially enjoy Hill's contributions and it's always nice to hear a female voice in hip-hop. Though they only released two albums, their influence is undeniable. I'm still not much of a hip-hop, R & B fan, but this was enjoyable.
3
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Fri Apr 29 2022
Take Me Apart
Kelela
Couldn't get into it, I tried... The songs are okay, but nothing that stands out as essential or memorable and really I had the urge to switch to something else as I lost interest about halfway through.
2
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Mon May 02 2022
Californication
Red Hot Chili Peppers
I use to like the Chili Peppers, Mother's Milk was pretty good, they were funky, edgy and different than most of the stuff on the radio or MTV and they put on amazing live shows. But something happens when you sell a gazillion copies of a record, chart high on the charts and attract the attention of celebrities and a mainstream following of teenage girls and loser hipsters. They're live shows are probably still a spectacle with the help of a much bigger budget and same with their music, big budget, accessible radio-friendly music so another bazillion people can stream it on Spotify or whatever. Kind of makes me sad...
3
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Tue May 03 2022
Face to Face
The Kinks
Up until the release of Face To Face in 1966, the Kinks were primarily known as a hit singles band, but this album would be a turning point. Face To Face was the first of a string of soon-to-be classics the Kink's albums recorded in the late 60's. This too, is the first of Ray Davies vision of concept records that he explores further in the late 60's and 70's. This might be considered one of their "under the radar" masterpieces and ironically this is the only Kinks record I don't have on vinyl in my collection, though I've listened to it many, many times and I would consider this a must-hear! I really need to buy this album!
5
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Wed May 04 2022
The Wall
Pink Floyd
Pink Floyd closed out the 70's with the epic rock opera, The Wall. This was an extraordinary project that would become their opus magnum, a concept album that would be their last great work. The record has many highlights and is fairly consistent, but like most double albums has some filler. That being said, despite Dark Side Of The Moon being their best selling album, The Wall is their most important.
4
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Thu May 05 2022
Let England Shake
PJ Harvey
This is the third PJ Harvey I have rated and I must admit, this one kept my interest the least. The earlier albums were more raw and hungry, while this one never connected with me maybe because it wasn't very interesting or unique. A bit too bland for my taste.
3
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Fri May 06 2022
Led Zeppelin IV
Led Zeppelin
This is considered the quintessential Led Zeppelin album. Not only does it contain one of the best known songs of the 70's, but it's also their most consistent record. It's been a while since I listened to IV in it's entirety and I almost forgot how many classic songs are on here. This should be the starting place to discover Zep, then work your way back (I, II, III) to the beginning, they're all essential!
5
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Mon May 09 2022
Thriller
Michael Jackson
Clearly, Michael Jackson and his album, Thriller are iconic, it can't be denied, as this album is the best selling album of all-time. 70 million copies have been sold worldwide, so 70 million can't be wrong, can they? I am NOT one of those 70 million, but it seems over my lifetime, I've been forced to listen to songs from this record at least that many times. Just because a record gets endless airplay, music videos have been viewed billions of times, millions of people have seen him live and all those copies of the album were sold doesn't mean it's any good. Not to forget, that glove, that dance, his zoo, the kids...!! I had seen this album in bargain bins more than any other album, so you know people's parents bought this record because it was popular. The next generation that has followed have also been tricked into thinking this is a great piece of music...spoiler alert, it isn't!
2
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Tue May 10 2022
Siembra
Willie Colón & Rubén Blades
On this rainy, cold gloomy day, this a much needed ray of sunshine and warmth! Now, I gotta get up and dance, well maybe. Enjoyable!
4
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Wed May 11 2022
Fire Of Love
The Gun Club
This record immediately caught my attention and kept it throughout. An excellent debut with original guitarist, Ward Dotson that's catchy and interesting. Ward went on to a fine career with the Pontiac Brothers and Liquor Giants and he really shines on this album.
4
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Thu May 12 2022
Scum
Napalm Death
I usually have a high tolerance for most hardcore, as some of it has some substance and marginal musicianship to it, but this "grindcore" or extremely metal or whatever Napalm Death's genre is, really tests my patience. I guess this is what nightmares sound like with it's comical dog barks that pass for vocals and the speed and ridiculousness of the songs makes me wonder why I must hear this before I die? If I cranked this up, I'm sure the neighbors would call the cops and I might be induced to go on a killing spree.
1
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Fri May 13 2022
No Other
Gene Clark
After listening to the last post for, Napalm Death, this is a breath of fresh air. Easy to listen to and skilled musicianship made this listen enjoyable.
3
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Mon May 16 2022
Live And Dangerous
Thin Lizzy
I had not heard this previously and I haven't listened to much Lizzy besides the "hits", so this was a nice wide range of tracks spread throughout this double LP. They sounded like a great band to see live and this live record brings life and a freshness to the studio tracks. Will listen repeatedly!
4
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Tue May 17 2022
Groovin'
The Young Rascals
A good solid album from those Young Rascals with one of their biggest hits along with some other decent songs. An easy listen, nothing too challenging, just a chill record that was enjoyable.
4
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Wed May 18 2022
Dare!
The Human League
Not a fan of the band, especially when this album was first released. I didn't listen to any synth-based pop music on the radio, but reflecting back it does bring back a bit of nostalgia. You couldn't go anywhere without hearing their big hit, Don't You Want Me and it still remains an earwig in my mind once in a while. It's not always a bad thing.
3
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Thu May 19 2022
Appetite For Destruction
Guns N' Roses
I should first mention, I do NOT like Guns N' Roses! I think they are one of the most overrated bands of our generation and I just can't see the appeal of this parody of a "heavy metal" band, if you even call them that. I don't have any issue with most of the band members, except Axl Rose, who is the definition of a douche, I can't stand him! As for the music, it's nothing special, Aerosmith pretty much covered this territory a lot better decades ago. If you are a fan or want to hear what the big deal is, Appetite For Destruction is their so-called best album and has their familiar tunes. I did listen to the whole record and though it didn't rock my world, it was at least listenable. If you haven't heard, Welcome to the Jungle, already a million times at sporting events or the radio, you are a very fortunate person. If you wear a Guns N' Roses t-shirt, do not talk to me and stay away, I've judged you already.
2
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Fri May 20 2022
OK
Talvin Singh
Not familiar with the artist, so I had no idea what I'd be listening to. After a listen, I still don't know what I was listening to. So much going on, some good, some...not so easy to listen to. An interesting mix, but not enough to hold my interest throughout the whole album, but overall, could be worse, I suppose.
2
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Mon May 23 2022
Synchronicity
The Police
When this album was released, I dismissed it because I was "Policed-out" and lost interest in the band and wasn't interested too much in the songs or the music videos that accompanied the record. I saw the band during this tour and was impressed how well the songs translated live and they were still at the top of their game as a live band. Reflecting back and listening now, I realize Synchronicity is a solid record (I still prefer their first two albums the most) and it was an appropriate "swansong" for their final album. Sting went on to...yeah, you know what happens...
4
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Tue May 24 2022
Fisherman's Blues
The Waterboys
This takes me back, I remember listening to this in the late 80's and it helped expand my musical interests beyond pop, rock and punk. Musically interesting, with tracks that were accessible to (younger) listeners outside the folk, Celtic, Irish genre. Today, it still holds up okay, but it's a little more traditional than I remember.
3
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Wed May 25 2022
Fetch The Bolt Cutters
Fiona Apple
Haven't actually listened to a complete Fiona Apple record and she sounded like I expected. Fiona's lyrics are interesting and provocative and the music is fine and though I can't say I love it, it was enjoyable and sometimes challenging. She's been around for a while and she's achieved much critical acclaim and I'm glad her music didn't get super mainstream. She seems to be doing what she wants to be doing, so extra points for integrity.
4
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Thu May 26 2022
My Life In The Bush Of Ghosts
Brian Eno
I can't pretend to say I understand or enjoy the music, but I can't say I dislike it. To me, it's experimental, avant-garde noise sounds and it's no wonder Eno composes soundtracks. Collaborating with David Byrne helps and they work well together, so I might have another listen in a different state of mind.
3
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Fri May 27 2022
Power In Numbers
Jurassic 5
Generally, this is a genre I wouldn't go out of my way to listen to, but I enjoyed it! Solid beats and very musically varied, I found myself grooving and moving. I would even consider listening to more.
3
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Mon May 30 2022
This Is Hardcore
Pulp
First time listener for Pulp and was always interested how this album would sound. There's nothing hardcore about it, but it's a dynamic record and for the most part, enjoyed it. I've been starting to re-discover more Brit-pop as I ignored it first time around, so I'm sure I'll slowly appreciate it more. The cover is more disappointing than the music, which is a good thing.
3
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Tue May 31 2022
Aja
Steely Dan
Steely Dan released a run of great albums during the 70's and I regard a couple of them as essential (Can't Buy A Thrill, Pretzel Logic), that are a good starting point to discover Steely Dan. Aja, the band's 6th album was moving towards more of a rock-jazz oriented sound, a bit smoother, but just as interesting. The previous records leading up to Aja (Katie Lied, Royal Scam), were a bit of a letdown and less consistent, but Aja was improved and produced an accessible sound that led to it being probably their most commercially successful record. I would place Aja in my top three favourite Dan albums and it brings back much nostalgia from my teenage years when I listen to it. A solid record, but not their best.
4
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Wed Jun 01 2022
Suzanne Vega
Suzanne Vega
A friend of mine recommended this album back when it was released and at the time I hadn't listened to a lot of female artists I enjoyed, since most of the bands I followed were your typical white male-lead groups/singers. I have to admit, I half gave it a listen because Suzanne looked so cute on the album cover (yes, I do sometimes judge the record by the cover). It was low-key folk and her voice and the music caught my attention immediately. The songs were interesting and this was something that was missing from my musical palate up to this point. I can't say I'm a big Suzanne Vega fan, though her second album was commercially successful with her two best known songs (Tom's Diner and Luka), but I really didn't care for her music as much as her debut. Luka is a great song, though I prefer the Lemonheads cover version, but maybe that's what makes the first album so good, there are no hits, no pretension or expectation. I still spin this record occasionally and I'm glad my buddy, Ben recommended I buy it.
4
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Thu Jun 02 2022
Eternally Yours
The Saints
The first two tracks hit you hard and fast and overall this is a very solid album. I had never listened to the Saints before and was pleasantly surprised by their sound and I'm instantly a fan. Since this is their second album, I'm curious about their debut and the rest of their discography, as well.
4
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Fri Jun 03 2022
Tarkus
Emerson, Lake & Palmer
For me, I have to be in the proper mood to listen to a lot of Prog, that being said, ELP are one of the best in the genre, so I was optimistic to listen this record. The playing is top notch and you're not gonna hear any chart topping singles, but it's a little self-indigent at times and I sometimes don't have patience for really long songs. Overall, it was enjoyable, though they have better albums. The cover art is cool!
3
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Mon Jun 06 2022
In Utero
Nirvana
During Nirvana's short career, they produced only 3 studio albums. Bleach, the indie album (if you can call Sub Pop indie?), the major label, mainstream breakthrough record, Nevermind and their last album, the follow-up, In Utero. Nevermind was a tough act to follow, it went on to sell a gazillion records, got tons of airplay and was widely praised as one of the great albums of the 90's. In Utero was in fact a commercial and critical success, it was at the top of the charts and it also sold way too many records, but was it any good? Personally, when it was released I didn't care for it or I didn't really want to listen to it. At the time, I had an issue with bands that "sold out", signed with major labels and attracted a whole different audience (you didn't have before you became popular), once you became "too mainstream". Reflecting back and listening now, they didn't really compromise their sound too much, some of the songs on In Utero were more abrasive and didn't have the sound of a typical chart-topper. Music was shifting, grunge became mainstream, punk became popular and it became fashionable to listen to music that wasn't just force-fed through popular radio stations, so maybe it was a good thing. In Utero, did reflect the time period, it was a very good album, but if it came out 5 years earlier would it have been noticed?
4
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Tue Jun 07 2022
Miriam Makeba
Miriam Makeba
I previously, haven't listened to much African music and I actually had never listened to anything from Miriam Makeba. First impressions, her voice is amazing and beautiful and I was pleasantly surprised by her talent. The more I've read about her, the more I want to listen to more of her music. Thank you for putting her into my musical stratosphere. Very enjoyable!
4
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Wed Jun 08 2022
Nebraska
Bruce Springsteen
Bruce Springsteen followed up his highly successful (both commercially and critically) albums, Born To Run and Darkness On The Edge Of Town, with a solo acoustic album, Nebraska. Sparse and raw, Nebraska could have been career suicide for a less talented artist, as his band was at the height of their creativity, both live and on record and Nebraska seemed like a step back. The demo quality of the songs may have put off fans that wanted another rock album, but the depth and honesty of the lyrics and music displayed the incredible talent of Springsteen and I give him credit for having the guts to release this record despite record label pressure for another chart-topping, best selling album. I like this record, more so now than when it was released, but it will be a piece of art that will stand on it's own as a triumph, in his vast discography.
4
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Thu Jun 09 2022
To Pimp A Butterfly
Kendrick Lamar
Clearly, Lamar is a talent and has amassed a huge following, considering this is at least the second time he's appeared on the list. I still don't consider him essential, but obviously I'm not the demographic he's counting on to buy his records or stream his music. Nothing wrong with it and for the most part listenable, so let's move on.
3
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Fri Jun 10 2022
Savane
Ali Farka Touré
I actually hadn't heard of Ali Farka Toure before this album came up and was fascinated what "African desert blues" sounded like. It's a pretty accurate description of the music and my first impression is that I love the guitar sound and the grooves. The songs are interesting and I will revisit this and some of his other recordings in the near future. Another cool find!
4
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Mon Jun 13 2022
Aladdin Sane
David Bowie
Bowie and the Spiders From Mars had a run of great records in the early 70's, Hunky Dory, Ziggy, Aladdin Sane (along with the covers album, Pinups). Aladdin was the last of original material and it sometimes doesn't get the attention and accolades of the previous two albums. It's because Aladdin Sane isn't as essential and important, but it's still an outstanding record with fine contributions from the Spiders. This was the first Bowie record I owned on vinyl, so I have a soft spot for it and I still consider it one of his better albums from the 70's.
4
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Tue Jun 14 2022
Abraxas
Santana
When I first heard this album in the 70's, as sad as it was, this was probably the first time I heard any Latin rock. I know, I wasn't exposed to a lot of diverse music in my youth, but with the help of film footage and music from Woodstock (etc), I knew who Santana was. This record has some absolute classic essential tracks on it that everyone has heard and hearing it today, it's still timeless music! The rest of record isn't bad either!
4
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Wed Jun 15 2022
Marquee Moon
Television
I bought this album in the mid-80's when my local university radio station was clearing their collection when it went off the air. I got this and their second album, Adventure and really didn't get much play on my turntable at the time, but rediscovered these albums in the past 10 years and was blown away by what I've been missing. A post-punk classic, Marquee Moon has been influential to many bands in the 80's, 90's...up until now! The guitar interplay between Tom Verlaine and Richard Lloyd is incredible and the songs resonate with you every listen. What a great record!
5
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Thu Jun 16 2022
Hounds Of Love
Kate Bush
This is perfect timing because Hounds Of Love by Kate Bush sits at or near the top of the charts 37 years after it's original release. Thanks to the TV series, Stranger Things, which takes place in the 80's, the song, "Running Up That Hill"'s appearance on the show has somehow revived the interest in the song, album and Kate Bush. Remember Kate Bush? I do, she was very popular in the 80's, maybe more so in the UK, but I know a lot of people that are big fans of her music. Me, not so much. I never got into her music then and after re-listening to Hounds Of Love, it still doesn't do much for me. Maybe it's her vocal delivery or maybe it's just the songs are not interesting to me. I found myself wanting to listen to something else about halfway through this album, but I stuck it out. The power of nostalgia in soundtracks and songs in TV/movies is real, as the Clash's, Should I Stay...played a prominent role in the first couple seasons of Stranger Things and I'm hoping Jonathan introduces more cool music to Will...The Replacements, Husker Du, R.E.M...perhaps?
3
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Fri Jun 17 2022
Definitely Maybe
Oasis
Oasis is one of those band I hadn't bothered to listen to beyond a couple of their best known songs and I've probably heard more about their personal squabbles and gossipy news stories than their actual music. This is my first full listen to this album, Oasis's debut, Definitely Maybe. It definitely makes an impression, as the music is catchy and rocks out pretty good and it definitely has it's moments. I don't know if the band deserves all the hype they received when it was first released, but the music stands up as above average and I must admit I enjoyed it. The band might be overrated, but on this album, they "put their money where their mouth is", an excellent record.
4
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Mon Jun 20 2022
Dummy
Portishead
I had never listened to Portishead, so I wasn't sure what to expect and it definitely wasn't what I was expecting. Termed as "trip-hop", I thought it would be more electronic and heavier and I wasn't expecting female vocals (Beth Gibbons). The music was nice and her vocals were beautiful, and at some point I thought I was listening to Sade. Not a bad listen, I'll have to listen again to fully appreciate it.
3
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Tue Jun 21 2022
The Bends
Radiohead
I never really was much of a Radiohead fan, though I've heard some of their music, I hadn't sat down and listened to a whole album. The Bends definitely has some great songs on it and overall it's a solid record. I think they do live up to the hype and I'll see who this album holds up to their more recent releases.
4
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Wed Jun 22 2022
Future Days
Can
It was better than I expected and I have to admit, I enjoyed it. Sounded more like background music, but that's okay. Hard to believe this was released in 1973, even today it has a "futuristic" sound to it, at least what we think the future should sound like... I guess the future is a lot closer than we think, right?
3
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Thu Jun 23 2022
Histoire De Melody Nelson
Serge Gainsbourg
I've been listening to a lot of French music from the 60's and early 70's lately, so I was happy to see this on the list. Serge Gainsbourg always seemed to have that creepy, older( French)man-vibe happening, similarly to Canada's Leonard Cohen, but you can't deny the talent and importance this music has to offer. I bought the old 45 of "Je t'aime… moi non plus", a couple years ago and have been intrigued with Serge and Jane Birkin ever since. The music is cool and if you can get past Gainsbourg's talking/singing style, it's an essential listen.
4
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Fri Jun 24 2022
Sincere
Mj Cole
It had it's moments, but it didn't capture my attention. With the little that I know about electronic music, this seemed a tad boring and generic sounding. Really not much for me to enjoy, move on...
2
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Mon Jun 27 2022
The Pleasure Principle
Gary Numan
I always wondered if anyone that loved the song, Cars, had actually listened to the rest of the album? To be honest, I hadn't and I was kind of surprised how low-key and less commercial sounding the rest of the record was. Very synth-new wave-ish with a full synthetic sound (no guitars!) definitely a robotic feel, not really too surprising considering "Cars" robotic sound...the sound of the future? "Cars", came out at a time when me and friends were getting our drivers licenses and spent many a night car cruising to that song blaring out the open windows, so this song has a real nostalgic connection.
3
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Tue Jun 28 2022
L.A. Woman
The Doors
When I first heard L.A. Woman in the late 70's, I wasn't fully impressed. Their earliest records had a psychedelic, rock sound I preferred and I thought the "mature" sounds of L.A. Woman wasn't for me. Looking back and re-listening to the album throughout the years, it truly is the Doors', career-defining record released before Jim Morrison's untimely death. I often compare it to the Who's, "Who's Next", their classic masterpiece that was anchored by two long epic classic tracks (Baba O'Riley, Won't Get Fooled Again), similarity to the Doors songs, Riders On The Storm and the title track on L.A. Woman. They aren't my favourite albums by those artists, but they are the records that were the high-points (arguably) of their career's.
4
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Wed Jun 29 2022
Boy In Da Corner
Dizzee Rascal
Would I like this with headphones on, maybe if I smoked a bong.
Would I like this in my living room, only if I was high on shrooms.
Do I care about these songs, to pretend I like them would be wrong.
Are these songs considered really essential, there's not much chance of that potential.
I do not like this in a car.
I do not like this in a bar.
I do not like this in a house.
I do not like this with my spouse.
I do not like this here or there.
I do not like this anywhere.
I do not like Boy In Da Corner.
I do not like this performer!
Nope
2
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Thu Jun 30 2022
Stankonia
OutKast
Not a fan of rap, but as far as rap goes, I thought it was a fine listen. It does get monotonous at times, it's a long album, so I think I'd be better suited to shorter doses at a time.
3
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Fri Jul 01 2022
Heartattack And Vine
Tom Waits
Always been a big fan of Mr. Waits! Love his earlier works, but he has released some great albums throughout his career. Heartattack and Vine is a solid and transitional record that is a very interesting and sometimes challenging listen. Not one of my favourite Tom Waits's albums, but still one of his better efforts.
3
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Mon Jul 04 2022
Deloused in the Comatorium
The Mars Volta
Album started with a bang and kept my attention through most of it. Kind of a contemporary Prog rock sound, that I'm sure would grow on me more with repeated listening. I don't love it, but I certainly would listen again. We'll see...
3
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Tue Jul 05 2022
Rattus Norvegicus
The Stranglers
First time listening to a Stranglers album and I was a bit surprised by their sound. I was expecting maybe a faster, harder punk sound, but instead it was quite tame, which is a good thing. I can hear why this debut was a success, nice sound and good songs. I don't think this will convince me to be a fan, but I will make an effort to listen to more Stranglers' albums.
3
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Wed Jul 06 2022
Medúlla
Björk
Dear Bjork,
First of all, congratulations for having another record on the list of 1001 albums. For me, this is the second record I've reviewed, as previously your debut album was presented here. Clearly, your talent and your critically acclaimed works have taken your career through several decades and I expect many more releases in the future. That being said, my opinion of your work hasn't changed. After listening to the first couple songs on this album, it was apparent to me (again) I'm not a fan and was hoping the album would end soon. I don't know if it's because your music is getting weirder or more complex, which is unlikely, because your music has always been weird and strange. It was a difficult listen, but I listened to the whole thing! Sorry, it's not for me. I still have several hundred more albums to go and I have a feeling we'll meet again.
Sincerely, TDIT
2
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Thu Jul 07 2022
Connected
Stereo MC's
First time listener for Stereo MC and Connected was better than I expected. It's kind of cool and funky and it has a catchy rhythm throughout. Probably won't convert me to a fan, but there could be a lot lot worse things to listen to. Enjoyable.
3
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Fri Jul 08 2022
Never Mind The Bollocks, Here’s The Sex Pistols
Sex Pistols
Despite the fact, the Sex Pistols released only one studio album during their all-too short existence, the impact both culturally and musically can't be denied. This is a case where the story/personalities are bigger than the music, as numerous films, books and even a recent TV series about the band have perhaps over-shadowed the music. There were other bands from the same era that left a longer resume of great music (The Clash, The Buzzcocks, The Damned etc.), but the impact of the Pistol's, debut, Never Mind The Bollocks might just be one of the most important and influential albums from the 70's. Sure, it's overrated and their musical talent was questionable at best, but when the word "punk rock" is mentioned, it all begins with the Sex Pistols.
5
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Mon Jul 11 2022
The Yes Album
Yes
When you think back to all the great music that was produced over 50 years ago, it's amazing how well the music has held up over that period of time. Prog bands produced a sound that sounded technologically advanced, well beyond it's years and YES was no exception. I own only two Yes albums (The Yes Album & Fragile) and in recent years I've listened to them more than when I bought them. There are many phases of Yes's career I'm not too interested in (especially their 80's work), but the Yes Album (their 3rd) through to 1973 are spectacular. The Yes Album has a pair of classic Yes songs and the rest of the record is solid.
4
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Tue Jul 12 2022
Step In The Arena
Gang Starr
Still not a fan of rap, but I can't say I didn't like it. It was okay, it has it's moments and though I wouldn't take the time to listen to it again exclusively, it makes for good background music.
3
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Wed Jul 13 2022
Pink Moon
Nick Drake
A stark, beautiful record from an artist we lost way too soon. A true, singer-songwriter format that focuses on his brilliant songwriting with minimal instruments and his fragile, yet emotional vocal style. Essential listen, especially if you're a fan of Elliot Smith.
4
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Thu Jul 14 2022
Kala
M.I.A.
Enjoyable enough, though this isn't something I'll listen to often. Not a fan of rap, but could do a lot, lot worse than M.I.A!
3
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Fri Jul 15 2022
Five Leaves Left
Nick Drake
Second Nick Drake album this week (Pink Moon), which is refreshing with the amount of rap that has come up. This Drake's music is the opposite of rap, thought provoking and a calm, chill listen. Nick Drake's debut, Five Leaves Left is even a more enjoyable listen than Pink Moon, less depressing and a much more optimist emotion to it. Well performed and well written, glad to see Drake finally receive much deserved attention and critical acclaim for his music , well after his death. I said Pink Moon was essential, start here first and you'll be rewarded by a great record.
4
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Mon Jul 18 2022
Dire Straits
Dire Straits
The popularity of the song, Sultans Of Swing from Dire Straits debut album, helped launch the very successful career of Dire Straits. The song remains a mainstay on radio (and my streaming algorithms) and sometimes the album gets overshadowed by the massive success of the single. The album charted high and sold crazily well, but how many people (at the time) listened to the whole record? I admit, I didn't it much love when it first came out, but over the years I've come to appreciate the whole album. Sure it has some filler, (what Dire Straits album doesn't have filler?) but over all it might be their most consistent record. The hugely popular, Brothers In Arms album may be the most accessible and commercially lauded album, but the debut highlighted the guitar wizardry and unique sound of Mark Knolfler and the band.
4
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Tue Jul 19 2022
Untitled (Black Is)
SAULT
I had never heard of this and the fact it's so recent, I'm surprised this made the list. I'm not sure what i think of this? It has a good beat, the lyrics are okay and I don't hate it, so it was fine. Not a fan of this style of music, so I can't say I'll listen again, but I can appreciate the effort.
3
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Wed Jul 20 2022
Live Through This
Hole
Full disclosure, I am NOT a fan of Courtney Love! She's a horrible actress, but can act within her range and her singing range is very limited. She doesn't seem like a very nice person and it was unfortunate that she met Kurt (for Kurt's sake). With that being said, Live Through This is a great album! I don't care much for other Hole records, but this one hits the spot. It downright rocks, the songs are crunchy, the music is grungy-melodic, the guitars are loud and I can even tolerate Courtney's screams. I will listen to this often and play this loud!
4
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Thu Jul 21 2022
The Fat Of The Land
The Prodigy
Not usually what I listen to, but it's exciting, heart pounding and terrific beats. Lots of energy!
3
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Fri Jul 22 2022
World Clique
Deee-Lite
Infectious, fun and easy to listen to. Otherwise, not really my kind of music, but a change once in a while is fine.
3
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Mon Jul 25 2022
Led Zeppelin
Led Zeppelin
A classic record that was an excellent debut for Zep. Underneath, the songs that got commercial attention and radio play, most of the record is a collection of blues songs performed by a dynamic white British hard rock-blues band. Sure, there are some slow moments and some filler, but for the most part this rocks hard and upholds the reputation of Zeppelin! One of their best!
4
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Tue Jul 26 2022
Trans Europe Express
Kraftwerk
Through the years, I have tried to listen to Kraftwerk, but struggled to get into electronica. I feel now, I'm more patient and open to other musical styles and genres, so I can understand and appreciate the music more than before. Good background music, but my patience is tested after prolonged listening. Solid record.
3
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Wed Jul 27 2022
Gunfighter Ballads And Trail Songs
Marty Robbins
Kinda cheezy and goofy, but at the same time, quite enjoyable. Never dared to listen to Marty Robbins before, but heard this album mentioned as being a classic record. More like a guilty pleasure for me. Thanks for the suggestion!
4
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Thu Jul 28 2022
A Short Album About Love
The Divine Comedy
So this is what Chamber Pop is? I have to admit, i don't dislike it and the more I listened the more I was interested and drawn in. Didn't know this existed and glad I had a listen. ***1/2
3
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Fri Aug 05 2022
Imagine
John Lennon
The song, Imagine, is probably John Lennon's most well known (post-Beatles) song he recorded and it might just be one of the most recognizable songs in the world. Imagine, the album, with the help of the popularity of the song is considered by many essential, but listening to the album as a whole, it isn't his best work. Apart from a couple of songs, the album is inconsistent and a little over-rated. There's nothing wrong with it, but he has other albums that deserve to be on this list more.
3
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Mon Aug 08 2022
Live At The Regal
B.B. King
Blues is the type of music you must experience live to fully appreciate the emotion and the "blood and guts" that is weaved into the music. A studio recording is great for listening at home, but if you want to groove to the beat and "feel" the music, a live concert is the ultimate. The next best thing would be a live recording of B.B. king and Live At the Regal is a stellar sounding recording. The performance of B.B. and his band is top notch as well, so this might be as good as it gets.
4
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Tue Aug 09 2022
Pornography
The Cure
Haven't actually listened to much from The Cure, but I had an idea how they would sound. Better than I was expecting and found it was a fine listen. Pretty much the standard for "goth rock" and they have a very dated 80's sound.
3
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Wed Aug 10 2022
Brutal Youth
Elvis Costello
Though I have listened to most of Elvis's albums, I hadn't actually completely listened to Brutal Youth. I rank his first four albums high in my "must-hear" list and his output of quality music has been extraordinary. Brutal Youth isn't among his best, but it's still a constantly good record, with a few standout songs. Overall, he has a lot better albums (which will probably show up here soon) and I consider this among his mid-range material that shouldn't be overlooked.
3
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Thu Aug 11 2022
Shaft
Isaac Hayes
I made the mistake of watching the Shaft re-make film a couple of years ago and probably the only highlight of the film was the Shaft theme by Isaac Hayes. I didn't see the original Shaft film from the 70's, but judging by the film's soundtrack, the music was pretty groovy. The Shaft theme is one of the best movie theme songs ever and the rest of the album manages to generally keep the vibe alive. It's a soundtrack, so there is a lot of atmospheric stuff happening and some of it wears thin after a wile, but overall a decent listen and a real time warp.
3
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Fri Aug 12 2022
Hunting High And Low
a-ha
For whatever reason, the lead-off track, Take On Me, has entered the lexicon of earworm songs that have become ingrained in our society. Yes, the song is 37 years old, but I've heard it more in the past 10 years than when it was released and it's popularity has taken on a whole new level. Apart from that song, a-ha delivers a predictable blend of mid-80's mediocrity most people didn't listen to if you bought the album. Actually, the songs aren't bad and it wasn't difficult to listen to the whole thing through, but really nothing essential here.
3
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Mon Aug 15 2022
Arrival
ABBA
It's hard for me to take a group like Abba seriously. Since I was a teen, Abba has been on the airways causing me to cringe, whine, complain and quickly turn the radio station. They have been a part of pop culture and life (in so many ways) since the 70's and believe it or not, they're following and dedicated fans are stronger than ever. For me, I have to admit, they have a certain guilty pleasure aspect to them. I don't cringe anymore, instead I secretly smile and smudgy say, "Oh no, not again! I can't stand Abba!", but really it's a harsh reminder of my fading youth and reminds me why there was so much to hate and love from the 70's. No more Abba!
3
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Tue Aug 16 2022
Siamese Dream
The Smashing Pumpkins
Another band, I hadn't gotten around to listen to thoroughly and I'm happy I finally listened to Siamese Dream, a very fine record. There are elements of arena rock, classic rock, alternative and it's a bit grungy in parts, this album holds up pretty well, released almost 30 years ago. There was lots to like and most of it held my attention. I hear that this is The Smashing Pumpkins best record and it's good, so I should explore more of their discography soon. Hope the rest are at least half as good as this!
4
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Wed Aug 17 2022
Don't Come Home A Drinkin' (With Lovin' On Your Mind)
Loretta Lynn
I can immediately see the influence and inspiration of Loretta's music had on Lurleen Lumpkin from the Simpsons. Seriously though, this album and music has been the influence of many aspiring female country music singers, including contemporary artist's such as, Neko Case. Most of the classic country music subject matter is covered, with a checklist of the essentials; drinking, lovin', cheating and don't need no man to run my life. Not my kind of music, but it was amusing and interesting.
3
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Thu Aug 18 2022
Isn't Anything
My Bloody Valentine
I think sometimes Shoegaze music gets a bad rap, sure some of it is intolerant and in cohesive, but there are some great bands and albums from this genre. I hadn't listened to much My Bloody Valentine until recently and though I'm not a fan, their debut full-length, Isn't Anything is a strong record. Underneath the distorted guitars (and noises!), is some nice layered guitar sounds and some melodic songs. I wasn't expecting I'd like this, but my eyes (and ears!) were opened up to some much needed album.
4
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Fri Aug 19 2022
At Mister Kelly's
Sarah Vaughan
Live albums are often hit or miss, but this live set from the amazing Sarah Vaughan is near perfection. An intimate live recording with Vaughan connecting with the audience right from the start and her magical performance makes this a worthwhile listen. I'm been graduating towards this genre of music for it's old-timey charm and it's classic performances and this album is a good place to start.
4
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Mon Aug 22 2022
Music From Big Pink
The Band
No doubt this is a classic album with more depth and consistency than just The Weight. The best record by The Band and much better than most Dylan albums.
4
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Tue Aug 23 2022
The Cars
The Cars
This album is special to me, as it was a "game-changer" musically for me and exposed me and opened my eyes and ears to music other than radio-friendly pop/rock rut I was stuck in. This has to be considered one of the finest debut albums of the 70's and introduced me to New Wave and keyboard sounds I has previously avoided. Every track is fantastic and The Cars never quite captured the magic of this record on their other releases. Seems ironic that radio play and music videos kept the band popular following the first album. The only essential album you need to hear from The Cars is The Cars!
5
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Wed Aug 24 2022
Juju
Siouxsie And The Banshees
Much better than I was expecting. Most of it was enjoyable, good voice and a nice guitar sound. Solid.
3
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Thu Aug 25 2022
Penthouse And Pavement
Heaven 17
I never was a fan of synth-pop, not then and still now. Most of it was listenable, but it reminded me that there was a lot of music in the early-80's that I disliked and this would have been one of those albums that confirmed that. Not the least bit essential, at least for me.
2
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Fri Aug 26 2022
Oxygène
Jean-Michel Jarre
Sometimes I've struggled to appreciate Electronica, often there aren't traditional "songs", more of a stream of background music. This sounds like this could be a soundtrack to a futuristic sci-fi film, that kind of goes on and on and ...For the most part, I enjoyed it, it's sort of cool in a weird way, but after a while I was waiting for it to end or at least for the imaginary movie in my mind to be over.
3
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Mon Aug 29 2022
Vespertine
Björk
Ack, another Bjork album on the list! As much as I'm exposed to Bjork's music here, I still can't get into her music. It's partly her voice, but the music feels like it's weird just to be weird and it feels somewhat forced, if that makes any sense. As far as what I've heard so far (her 3rd record on the list), this one isn't bad and I did make it through the whole album, so it didn't bug me as much as her others. Yes, that's a compliment.
3
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Tue Aug 30 2022
Lady In Satin
Billie Holiday
What can you say? She's one of the great vocalists of our time, well 70 years ago time, but you can't deny the quality of her talent. Don't know if this is considered the best of her work (I own a couple best of, greatest hits collections), most of it is fine, but it helps if you are in the mood or the right state of mind to fully appreciate the music.
4
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Wed Aug 31 2022
Apocalypse Dudes
Turbonegro
This was much better than I expected! I was expecting something darker and gothy, but it was hard hitting, punky and fun! Kind of a 70's hard rock Norwegian "Dictators" sound/vibe with a touch of glam. I quite enjoyed it!
4
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Thu Sep 01 2022
American IV: The Man Comes Around
Johnny Cash
As far as his more modern recordings go, this one is pretty good. I know this was one of his last albums released during his lifetime, but he still has the energy, spirit and that "voice", the quintessential performer until the end. This is what sets Cash apart from everyone else in the genre. Respect!
4
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Fri Sep 02 2022
Water From An Ancient Well
Abdullah Ibrahim
Cool, laid-back, smooth, sometimes it got intense, but a very enjoyable album start to finish. The type of music you can play in the background all day. Never heard of this before, so I'll be sure to listen to more from Ibrahim.
4
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Mon Sep 05 2022
Berlin
Lou Reed
The first time I heard this album, I thought it was a grim, sad depressing record. I had this on 8-track and the only player was in our windowless, cargo van and when the song, The Kid played, I swear to god I thought there was an actually baby crying inside the van. A haunting song, this didn't help my option of the album at the time. Fast forward 40 years or so, I would put this in the category of Lou Reed's better album, as he's released a handful of duds, sprinkled in with some classics. I wouldn't say it's a classic, but my option of the record has softened and it's definitely more listenable than it was then. It's actually quite good! The 8-track is long gone, all the 8-tracks were stolen when the van was broken into, but I did buy it on vinyl, so I'm not too heartbroken.
4
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Tue Sep 06 2022
Gorillaz
Gorillaz
I'm kind of mixed with my opinion. It has it's moments with cool vibes and an upbeat jam, with several good head-bobbing songs. Too inconsistent to really appreciate and really there's a lot more satisfying music out there. It's okay...but
3
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Wed Sep 07 2022
Cloud Nine
The Temptations
An enjoyable listen, for the most part with some good songs here. Their "psychedelic soul" sound is interesting, it works at times, it's different and it funks it up a bit more. I haven't listened to much of The Temptations, maybe I should listen to more... :)
3
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Thu Sep 08 2022
Bubble And Scrape
Sebadoh
If you only listen to mainstream, commercial music then this album would be easily dismissed. The sound is lo-fi, the instruments sound out of tune at times and the singing isn't strong. Lou Barlow (formerly of Dino Jr), isn't seeking commercial success or accolades for his music, instead he delivers some raw, heartfelt music that could be considered indie, alternative, or just plain weird, but it's the kind of music I've come to appreciate and I'm glad this list acknowledges musicians and bands from outside the "norm". Bubble And Scrape was actually recorded in a professional studio instead of "home-recorded", so this would be considered a more polished work compared to previous albums. I like it, we need more bands like Sebadoh and musicians like Lou Barlow that push the boundaries of quality music instead of the bland radio-friendly schlock we have to endure most of the time.
4
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Fri Sep 09 2022
Giant Steps
The Boo Radleys
Some good stuff on this record, lots of energy, variety and for the most part enjoyed it. Nothing too memorable, but a worthwhile listen.
3
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Mon Sep 12 2022
The Queen Is Dead
The Smiths
It seemed appropriate (and a bit obvious), that this album came up for review the day after Queen Elizabeth II died! I even played this album in it's entirety as a tribute the day of, but to be fair, I listened to it again within 24 hours. I must admit, I haven't listened to this album since the late 80's and I can't say I'm a fan of The Smiths. Maybe, it's because Morrissey is such a shitty person or it could be their music never interested me. Listening to it now, it's fine, some of it is really good and I especially like the title track which opens the album. Similarly to other Smith records, it began to bore me after a while and my mind started to wander. Again, I don't hate it, I just don't love it.
3
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Tue Sep 13 2022
American Idiot
Green Day
I was a fan of Green Day from their early releases on the Lookout label, but had lost interest in the band once they went to a major label and became a hugely popular band. I couldn't avoid hearing their music in the mainstream and when I heard American Idiot in it's entirety, it caught my attention. This is an album best heard as a complete work, as many of the songs segue into each. the songs are catchy, melodic and have an energy and intensity that highlight all of Green Day's best attributes. While listening to it, I can understand why someone thought, "this could work as a musical (play)" and yes, it happened. I would be an idiot to actual go see the production, as I'm content and happy to just listen to the album again.
4
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Wed Sep 14 2022
Chelsea Girl
Nico
Nico's contribution to the Velvet Underground's debut album was brief, yet effective with her haunting vocals and mysterious presence. Chelsea Girl allows her to expand her range somewhat more, though she is very limited vocally, but offers up some good songs. The sound is sparse and raw and at times the pace becomes boring, but if you take into consideration the time period and mood it's trying to create, she does a commendable job. It helps that she gets contribution from some of the VU members.
3
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Thu Sep 15 2022
Treasure
Cocteau Twins
A smooth soothing, dreamy quality to the music, that had it's moments, but mainly unspectacular and unmemorable. Not hard to listen to, so I guess that's a positive, but I can't say I would purposely listen to this again. Reminds me of why I avoided a chunk of the 80's, synth pop with drum machines, no thanks!
2
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Fri Sep 16 2022
Sunshine Superman
Donovan
If you put aside the fact that Donovan was suppose to be the "new" Dylan when he began his career as a acoustic folk singer, Sunshine Superman, as well as his other albums from the late 60's, really reflected the time period. He shifted his style to a psychedelic, folk rock sound and wore long flowery shirts, which of course, wasn't anything new as the Beatles, Stones, Hendrix, Byrds etc, experimented with the sound and concept. I must admit, I like Donovan's attempt, most of it was listenable and it sure beats his folky troubadour sound. It gets overindulgent at times and it wears thin after a while, but this album is a good positive time-capsule of his career.
4
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Mon Sep 19 2022
Fear Of Music
Talking Heads
This Talking Heads album was a turning point for the band going from a clean pop-rock-new wave-punk sound to an expanded, rhythm-based experimental sound. Eno's influence is all over the record it widened the scope of sound of the band with mixed results. There are a couple of classic TH songs on here and you can't deny they are a "better" band, but I tend to have more songs from their first two albums on my playlists.
3
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Tue Sep 20 2022
Eagles
Eagles
The Eagles were playing in town the other night at the local hockey arena supporting their old album, "Hotel California" played in it's entirety. This is probably the only Eagles record I could actually listen to start to finish and the show featured only one original member of the band that played on the debut, Eagles. Pre- H.C., they were a laid-back, easy-going California band, that played something along the lines of Americana country folk rock. It was MOR and really nothing special and it took the recruitment of guitarist, Joe Walsh on H.C. to take the band to the next level. As far as their first album, there are a couple classic songs, I assume they play every show (Take It Easy, Peaceful Easy Feeling), apart from that, the rest is underwhelming, it's OK...but there are a lot better albums in the genre for sure.
3
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Wed Sep 21 2022
...Baby One More Time
Britney Spears
Though this record is considered a "hallmark" for pop music reviving the teen pop genre, I would say it's more of a pop culture time-stamp of the end of rock music and the start to a horrible decade of music, the 2000's. Britney has been as much in the public eye recently, as the original hype for this record. I shutter when I hear her perform songs from this 23 years later, as the songs are dated sounding and the lyrics sound ridiculous coming from a woman in her 40's mouth. Since the songs were written by middle-aged men maybe it makes sense? This is the first time I've listened to the whole album (at least what I want to admit too) and clearly the songs, videos and the hoopla that goes along with the the Britney circus is targeted to a specific target audience....and I'm not it!
3
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Thu Sep 22 2022
Entertainment
Gang Of Four
Tried listening to this album a few years ago and I didn't care for it. Listening again, the whole way through, something clicked with me. The beats are choppy, yet infectious, the songs are interesting and the guitar sound is amazing! I don't know what I was expecting previously, but this is music I should have been listening to. Really really enjoy this record and glad I gave it another go! Entertainment, yes!
4
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Fri Sep 23 2022
Welcome To The Pleasuredome
Frankie Goes To Hollywood
I have to admit, this wasn't as bad as I was expecting. The hit song from this album, Relax appears everywhere and even to this day it's one of those annoying ear-worms still ringing in my head. It ruined the film, Body Double, which wasn't a great movie to begin with, but why did it take so much screen time? That being said, I didn't hate this album, but it reminds me too much (yet again) why synth-pop is near the bottom of my list for music genres in the 80's!
3
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Mon Sep 26 2022
Golden Hour
Kacey Musgraves
A decent listen, I enjoy her voice, I like her and for the most part the songs are good. I'm not a fan of the Country genre, though this is more of a "hybrid-modern" country sound with electronic beats and at times a bit Shania Twain-esque. Personally, I would prefer to listen to Kacey, on her own, solo acoustic to just hear the songs without the distraction. Overall, this is above average.
3
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Tue Sep 27 2022
Bizarre Ride II The Pharcyde
The Pharcyde
If I had to describe what I thought Rap would've sounded like in the early 90's, this is pretty much how it would sound. Immature, crude and jazzy, that doesn't take itself too seriously, it could get a whole lot worse than this album. Enjoyable enough, in a weird half-satisfied type of way.
3
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Wed Sep 28 2022
The Idiot
Iggy Pop
David Bowie's fingerprints are over this record. He wrote most of it, played on it and produced it and the album probably wouldn't have been made without Bowie's presence. If you are expecting "Stooges" Iggy, you'll be disappointed, but if you take this record at face value, it's a decent record. Some good songs on here, but it's inconsistent and it's bit too artsy for it's own good somtimes. I expected more.
3
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Thu Sep 29 2022
Like A Prayer
Madonna
I've never had the desire to listen to a Madonna album and I've had to tolerate her songs on radio since she first came on the scene in the 80's. Her "hits" are undeniable catchy and have obvious commercial appeal, so I really wanted to like, Like A Prayer. This is clearly a concept record, family and religion being the obvious themes, as most of the songs are her confessions and recollections of her youth. Apart from the handful of well-known songs on the album, the rest is junk, filler that was tough to sit through. I also made the mistake of listening to some dance-mix versions of some of the songs....does anyone prefer those versions to the originals? Oh right, if you're at club, loaded and drugged up, you want seemingly never-ending loops of the song, Like A Pray throbbing through your body, right? One star each for Like A Prayer and Express Yourself, zero for the rest.
2
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Fri Sep 30 2022
São Paulo Confessions
Suba
After a week of enduring Britney and Madonna albums, it's refreshing to hear something non-commercial music that has way more substance and credence than a bunch of overrated pop-tarts. A very nice listen with beats that had me dancing in the kitchen and bobbing my head. Did I mention how refreshing this was? Enjoyed it a lot! Not for everyone's tastes, but same goes with Madonna.
4
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Mon Oct 03 2022
Femi Kuti
Femi Kuti
Enjoyable listen. not usually something I listen to, but there was nothing I didn't like and the musicianship was top-notch. Just saying it's not something I would listen to everyday and I would have to be in the proper mood.
3
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Tue Oct 04 2022
Private Dancer
Tina Turner
The dated 80's sound on this record could have just as easily have been someone like, Laura Branigan or Alison Moyet, but the strong powerful vocals of Tina Turner, set it apart from the generic sounds of lesser vocalists. These songs remind me too much of 80's soundtracks (or films set in the 80's) and it makes me cringe to remember commercial radio at the time. This was truly Turner's comeback album and brought her back to commercial success. This would rank near the top of her greatest achievements. I didn't embrace it at the time and it still doesn't do much for me, but I respect she did overcome all kinds of adversity and still showed she is one of the great female vocalists of her time.
3
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Wed Oct 05 2022
Third
Portishead
Interesting listen. For the most part, i enjoyed the vocals, but at times reminds me too much of Bjork. The beats were fine and some of the songs captured my attention, but too many didn't hold my interest.
3
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Thu Oct 06 2022
Crossing the Red Sea With the Adverts
The Adverts
High energy, great sounding late 70's punk! Just what I needed to drown out the bland, commercially, overrated albums from the 80's & 90's in the last few posts. An often overlooked band, I apparently overlooked them too and I love the era. Kind of Buzzcocks-esque, with some mighty fine snotty lyrics and fast guitar. Glad to finally listen to The Adverts, highly recommended!
4
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Fri Oct 07 2022
The Joshua Tree
U2
Not really a fan of U2, but there's no denying this is their career-defining album. Frequently listed as one of the greatest albums ever, blah, blah blah...it has it's great moments. So many of their classic tracks are on here and they hold up pretty well even today, but after those I feel there's a drop off in quality. I won't let my bias against Bono influence my opinion (too much) and say the album is fine, but not taste.
3
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Mon Oct 10 2022
Neon Bible
Arcade Fire
When I first heard this album when it was released, it was a bit of a let down from their debut, Funeral. It had a similar vibe and I to me, it felt like it could have been outtakes or extra tracks from the previous album. Putting that aside and listening again, it holds up well on it's own and live, many of these tracks are powerful and highlights. Still prefer Funeral and The Suburbs (both 5 stars), but Neon Bible is a pretty good sophomore effort and a lot better than what would come later.
4
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Tue Oct 11 2022
It's Blitz!
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
When the Yeah Yeah Yeahs released their first couple albums, they had me curious and interested. A female-fronted edgy, punk, garagy sound band led by the always interesting Karen O, I played their music often and thought they were pretty good. Fast-forward to It's Blitz and I don't know if it's because their sound "evolved" or if my tastes wanted something different, but I lost interest and haven't really listened to them since. Listening to It's Blitz!, now with fresh (and older) ears, I like their sound better than before and it was more enjoyable. Don't know if I'll reconnect with their more recent stuff, but it's more possible than yesterday.
3
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Wed Oct 12 2022
The Rising
Bruce Springsteen
I haven't really listened to much from the Boss since Born in The USA and for the most part hasn't been impressed by his solo albums without the E Street Band. For The Rising, Bruce reunites with the band and the results are much more satisfying than his previous efforts. A powerful and passionate project for the Boss, the songs are all consistently good and interesting with the band adding that extra energy and spark. Sure, there are some slow moments and the album is a tad bit too long, but overall it's a solid return to the "glory days".
4
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Thu Oct 13 2022
Non-Stop Erotic Cabaret
Soft Cell
Their huge hit, Tainted Love which has had a nostalgic revival in recent years, is the obvious best song on this album. I always disliked the song and pretty much anything synth-pop from the early 80's, so for me the rest of the record is throwaway. Difficult to listen to the whole way through. One star for Tainted and one star for the rest. Blah!
2
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Fri Oct 14 2022
A Seat at the Table
Solange
If we put aside the fact she has a very famous singer sister, this album is okay, the singing is competent, the production is good and the music is alright, but overall this is nothing special and if she didn't have an "association" with Beyonce we probably wouldn't have heard of her. There are so many singers of this genre that sound just as good and the "train" of American Idol-ish singers will always be eager to record and flood the market. Clearly, I'm cynical, but why shouldn't I? I'm giving it a mid-range grade because there's nothing bad about this and it's listenable, but nothing more.
3
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Mon Oct 17 2022
Pretenders
Pretenders
Before this album was released, I didn't listen to any female-fronted bands. On my first listen of the Pretenders debut album, something clicked instantly, it was amazing, like nothing I had been exposed to up to this point. Chrissie Hynde's snarl in her voice, the guitar interplay between Hynde and James Honeyman-Scott and the well crafted songs, their sound was both catchy and energetic. It wasn't exactly punk, nor was it new wave, it was rock that combined some of those elements for modern rock sound with a punk attitude. I consider this one of a handful of albums that helped shape and define my musical tastes. In my opinion, the Pretenders didn't release another record this great, though Learning To Crawl was close, but the band was never the same after the deaths of Honeyman-Scott and bassist, Pete Farndon. The Pretenders became more of a Chrissie Hynde driven "project" and to this day has continued to release some pretty fine music.
5
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Tue Oct 18 2022
The Real Thing
Faith No More
Listened to Faith No More back when I was into the Chili Peppers briefly. They had a similar sound and I regarded FNM, a poor-man's RHCP. Listening so many years later doesn't make me like them better, but can appreciate they are much more than a Chili Peppers knockoff. There are some good songs here and had to check to make sure I was still listening to the same album when they played their Black Sabbath cover. Well done! I know this band was great live and they transfer a lot of that energy to their albums. No a bad listen.
3
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Wed Oct 19 2022
The Man Who
Travis
This was better than I expected. Some good songs, not too much filler. Enjoyed it.
3
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Thu Oct 20 2022
3 + 3
The Isley Brothers
Some pretty smooth tunes on here! Never really listened to much Isley's before and was surprised how many songs I recognize. Cool covers and a solid collection of songs that were well worth the listen! I'm kind of surprised at myself for enjoying it.
4
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Fri Oct 21 2022
Surfer Rosa
Pixies
I would rate Surfer Rosa, the Pixies best album! It's no coincidence that Kim Deal made her most significant contributions to a Pixies record on this one and her lead vocals on, Gigantic was a highlight. Everything great about the Pixies comes together on this album and I even prefer it to Doolittle, which many fans consider their greatest. You really can't go wrong with their first 3 releases. An alt-rock classic!
5
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Mon Oct 24 2022
Surf's Up
The Beach Boys
I had never heard of this album and who knew the Beach Boys would write songs about environmental issues. A darker, moodier record than I expected from the Beach Boys with some interesting songs and actually some pretty decent ones, I might add. The commercial appeal is lacking, which isn't a bad thing, but the lesser contributions of Brian Wilson is evident.
3
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Tue Oct 25 2022
Le Tigre
Le Tigre
I listened to this album a few years ago, but wasn't impressed. Maybe it was because I was comparing it too much with Kathleen Hanna's previous band, Bikini Kill, which is hard to top. Re-listening to this album, I have a new appreciation with Le Tigre when rating the record now, it held up well on it's own. I normally aren't a fan of electronica and sampling, but it's catchy, melodic and punky, at times. It's very dance-able and fun and I must admit I enjoyed it. The songs are well written and the political messages are still relevent today. I'm glad I re-visited this record.
4
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Wed Oct 26 2022
Sunday At The Village Vanguard
Bill Evans Trio
I've been listening to Jazz recently, starting with acclaimed classics and Sunday At the Village Vanguard is definitely an essential Jazz record. It's amazing musicianship and oh, so easy to listen to with it's smart grooves and cool vibe, makes this a no-brainer. A glorious afternoon listen and crystal clear live recording, it felt like they were performing in front of me! Wow, why haven't I been listened to more of this before? Even non-Jazz fans should be impressed, a must hear!
5
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Thu Oct 27 2022
Fuzzy
Grant Lee Buffalo
Never listened to Buffalo before and my first impression is that I enjoy the guitars, melodies and vocals, but it's a fairly standard alt-indie-rock sound from the 90's. The songs don't stand out to me as anything above average or special and though it's a competent effort and it sounds fine, I don't understand how it made the 1001 list. Not essential, just saying...
3
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Fri Oct 28 2022
Fever Ray
Fever Ray
Some synth-pop sounds that sounded okay, decent background/soundtrack music for my day. Nothing overly exciting or special for my tastes, but I didn't not enjoy it. Reminded me too much of Bjork, at times and ironically the first song to stream after the album was done was a Bjork song, go figure.
3
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Mon Oct 31 2022
Billion Dollar Babies
Alice Cooper
Despite the theatrics and face make-up, Alice Cooper (and band) pumped out some pretty decent music in the early to mid-70's. We heard his "hits" frequently on the radio, but if you dig deeper into other tracks on their early albums, there are some really good songs on there. The original "shock-rocker" was more glam and "lite" metal than anything shockingly disturbing and his sense of humor and campy theatrical productions is what allowed to parents to not worry about their kids at an Alice Cooper show. The music of Billion Dollar Babies is fine, not really my thing, but it's enjoyable and more on the parody side that you shouldn't take too seriously. ***1/2
3
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Tue Nov 01 2022
Dookie
Green Day
Green Day's major label debut, Dookie, in my opinion was one of their best records. The band was already "well seasoned" with several releases on the indie label, Lookout Records and they were able to convey the energy and catchy pop-punk of their earlier albums to a larger audience. The release of this record in many ways was just as important as, Nirvana's, Nevermind, bringing alt rock- punk/grunge to mainstream audiences that so desperately needed better music.
4
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Wed Nov 02 2022
Bayou Country
Creedence Clearwater Revival
CCR's second album is when the band started gaining momentum and it was the start of a group of essential albums they released over a short period of time in the late 60's. This isn't their best, but definitely was the blueprint for greater things to come. Their sound, the hits and John Fogerty's amazing songwriting is already evident on Bayou Country. A near classic!
4
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Thu Nov 03 2022
O.G. Original Gangster
Ice T
I like Ice T. He's one of the reasons why Law & Order: Special Victims Unit is worth watching and his music is no-bullshit, old school Gangsta rap. I laughed out loud and nodded my head several times with his amazing lyrics and his delivery is on point. An enjoyable, intense listen, not for the faint of heart and conservative white Americans! (If you don't want to hear the word Nigger, move on.)
4
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Fri Nov 04 2022
Done By The Forces Of Nature
Jungle Brothers
The last post was for a Ice T record, so unfortunately for the Jungle Brothers about halfway through, I was getting tired of hearing Rap and Hip-Hop. Ice's music is closer to being essential, this not so much. I have no complaints about the music, some of it I enjoyed, but it's not really my style of music. I listened to it all and it was fine, but won't rush out and hear it again anytime soon.
3
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Mon Nov 07 2022
Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley
Everything that can be said about Elvis has been said already. No doubt, this is one of the most important records to be released in the past century and the influence these songs had on a whole generation of fans and future musicians can't be denied. I like his earlier music, rockabilly and the early days of rock 'n' roll, as Elvis was still finding his groove. His biggest hits were still to come!
4
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Tue Nov 08 2022
Blood Sugar Sex Magik
Red Hot Chili Peppers
Not really a big Peppers fan, but I did dub a copy of Mother's Milk to cassette back in the day. On Blood Sugar...the band hits the mainstream big time and they don't compromise too much, their sound is similar, though a bit more slicker and commercially appealing. The record's good, one of their best, I only wish they stopped making albums after this one.
4
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Wed Nov 09 2022
Tracy Chapman
Tracy Chapman
Perhaps she was ahead of her time or it was because she was a black female folksinger, and though she enjoyed early success, she never hit it as big as she should have. Her songs talked about social and political issues, which for the most part were ignored at the time, but her music is being "rediscovered" during these times of turbulence and questioning of American political values. Despite having her first two albums in my record collection (actually my wife's LPs), I never listened to the albums in their entirety. The songs are very socially relevant and Chapman has a very engaging voice that gives the songs urgency. Fast Car and Revolution are the obvious hits on this record and if get beyond those songs, it's a solid album.
4
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Thu Nov 10 2022
Third/Sister Lovers
Big Star
When I first heard the third Big Star album, I wasn't impressed. The first two albums were brilliant, both definitely essential listening, but the Third didn't have the quality or consistency of the first two. The amount of covers surprised me, and the status and direction of the band was in dire straits. Years have passed and with repeated listenings, the album has grown on me and I've had a deeper appreciation for the record. Alex Chilton is a genius, but he hasn't produced anything nearly as good as the first three of Big Star album ( though he's had his moments). A cult favorite or a misunderstood classic?
4
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Fri Nov 11 2022
Technique
New Order
Never listened to New Order, but they sounded how I thought they would. Not really my kind of music, but it held my attention and kept me listening. The synths and fake drums were okay and it blended well with the music, so I might explore more from New Order in the future.
3
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Mon Nov 14 2022
Every Picture Tells A Story
Rod Stewart
Definitely, this is the highlight of Rod Stewart's long and illustrious career, at least artistically. Recorded with his mates from, The Faces this could also be considered the best Faces record, as well. Quality songs and excellent musicianship, Every Picture Tells A Story is an essential listen, especially if you only know Stewart from his later work and god forbid, the disco era.
5
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Tue Nov 15 2022
Aftermath
The Rolling Stones
This is the album the Stones really come into their own and begin to produce some really good records. Some of the stand-out tracks would become classics (Paint It Black, Under My Thumb...I listened to the US version) and it's a solid collection of songs, though there still a few throwaway tracks. I wouldn't consider it in their A+ classic albums, but definitely an A.
4
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Wed Nov 16 2022
Scott 2
Scott Walker
As I've gotten older, I've appreciated good crooners more, as this is the first time listening to Scott Walker. I would categorize him as a "poor-man's Sinatra or more accurately Andy Williams, with often some odd and bizarre lyrics. It's okay, but never felt this is something I'll listen to again...interesting listen though.
3
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Thu Nov 17 2022
Kollaps
Einstürzende Neubauten
If you're idea of a good time is listening to someone banging and pounding on chunks of metal, repeatedly over and over and over again, I have an album for you! Quite literally, this is what "real" Industrial music sounds like. This is scary shit, this is what nightmare soundtracks sound like and really is there any redeeming qualities to this "music"? I have to admit, I got used to it after a while and I did in fact listen to the whole thing which is an accomplishment because during the first track, I didn't think I could. I thought the percussion rhythms generally worked and I'm rating it higher than 1 star, because I didn't hate it, but then again there wasn't much to love.
2
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Fri Nov 18 2022
Spy Vs. Spy: The Music Of Ornette Coleman
John Zorn
Chaos! That's the first thing that comes to mind during the opening track of Spy Vs Spy, an aural assault that continues through the album. It reminds me of before band class when everyone blows on their instrument independent from one another, trying to drown each other out. If you made a movie about a character that goes on an extended bender, then their life spirals out of control, freaking out until they die, this would be the "music" for that soundtrack! I was going to stop listening during the first track, but the masochist in me kept me from turning it off. Bad decision!
2
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Mon Nov 21 2022
A Girl Called Dusty
Dusty Springfield
Hadn't listened to much Dusty until now and my first impression of, "A Girl Called Dusty" is that I should have listened to her much earlier. I recognized a couple of the songs and I especially enjoyed her versions of the Burt Bacharach covers. Solid record throughout and I'm guessing this is her essential album from her catalog. Well worth the listen!
4
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Tue Nov 22 2022
Apocalypse 91… The Enemy Strikes Black
Public Enemy
Some old school hip-hop that seems appropriate to be on this list and you can't deny the influence and importance of this release, but I can't say I blown away. It was good and I enjoyed most of it, it's just that I can't see myself listening to this regularly. ***1/2
3
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Wed Nov 23 2022
Rip It Up
Orange Juice
Haven't heard this before. Kinda New Wave-ish, a bit bland and they don't have much of an edge to their sound. On the positive, it's easy to listen to and I can't say I didn't enjoy it, it's just that I don't care to know more about them or be bothered to hear more. Still, it's okay...
3
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Thu Nov 24 2022
The Infotainment Scan
The Fall
Better than I expected. I like the guitar sound and most of the songs were engaging and edgy. Enjoyed it enough to listen to the whole album, so it was above average.
3
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Fri Nov 25 2022
Hail To the Thief
Radiohead
Solid album by the always reliable Radiohead. Can't say I'm really a big fan, but I appreciate that they release some good listenable music with so much other crap in the world. I don't know if I believe the hype about the band, but they are enjoyable enough. 3.5/5
3
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Mon Nov 28 2022
Pyromania
Def Leppard
A horrible reminder why I disliked most commercial radio from 80's. More pop than metal, this pseudo-metal hair band's crappy album and "hit" songs got played needlessly on "rock" radio that obviously left an impression on young female listeners and wannabee Def-boys. Clean, dumb fun, I guess, especially if you've ever drawn their logo on your jean jacket vest and school books.
2
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Tue Nov 29 2022
The Chronic
Dr. Dre
Man, I apparently haven't listened to much Gangsta Rap (besides here) and though the lyrics are extreme and warrants it's parental warnings, nothing shocks or surprises me anymore. This is the real deal and it's influence and it's importance in pop culture is significantly noted. I can understand why middle-class white America would be scared, this outright nasty and crazy shit. As a side note, I noticing on my music streaming service, I had to listen to a community playlist since this album wasn't listed under the artist's page. I just know I better not be caught video taping myself singing along to these lyrics in my car.
3
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Wed Nov 30 2022
It's A Shame About Ray
The Lemonheads
The Lemonheads breakthrough record, It's A Shame About Ray released in 1992, gained the band a widespread following and critical acclaim and it remains their greatest achievement. The only original founding member, Evan Dando crafted a poppy alternative rock sound on this record preceding a more punk sound on their earlier albums. When this record was released, I instantly fell in love with the songs and wore the crap out of that cassette. It remains a constant in my music listening, as it not only captures something about that time period, but it's such a catchy, upbeat record it always puts a smile on my face. Personally, I rank this high as a favourite from the 90's and it's a shame they haven't released anything as good since. Evan continues to tour this record (played in it's entirety) that celebrated it's 30th anniversary this year.
5
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Thu Dec 01 2022
This Nation’s Saving Grace
The Fall
Another record I hadn't heard and it somewhat surprised me because I enjoyed it. Started out strong, but kind of lost me towards the end, but overall, a solid post-punk work by the Fall, one of their better albums.
3
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Fri Dec 02 2022
Catch A Fire
Bob Marley & The Wailers
An easy-going listen with no weak tracks, very cool and consistently great. The perfect way to warm up on a snowy cold day in December!
4
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Mon Dec 05 2022
Actually
Pet Shop Boys
I'm not much of a Pet Shop Boys. The album was fine and I have no major complaints, but to me the music is bland and uninteresting. That being said, I actually didn't turn it off and listened to the whole thing through.
3
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Tue Dec 06 2022
Pearl
Janis Joplin
An essential album with some of her classic songs. So much has been said about the all-too short, tragic life of Janis Joplin, but it's the music that sings loudly, as she is one of the most important female artists of her time. Her voice was amazing and her personality comes through even on her studio recordings. Such a shame she couldn't share her gift beyond 27.
4
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Wed Dec 07 2022
Back To Black
Amy Winehouse
This is the perfect opportunity to finally listen to this album from Amy Winehouse. Honestly, she is the real deal, she has the pipes and the songs to make this record memorable. I wouldn't say she's a "great" singer, but combined with the terrific musical arrangements, retro sound and her powerful voice, this is the whole package. Everyone is aware of her personal issues and her tragic death and I can't help being reminded of (my last post), Janis Joplin. Both recorded only 2 proper albums and their potential for even bigger and better things was never realized. It's unfair to make the comparison musically, but this a near perfect record.
4
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Thu Dec 08 2022
Oracular Spectacular
MGMT
I burned a copy of this album when it came out because I enjoyed their sound and the songs were interesting and different. Listening now, I can't help but hear so many other bands and influences (Bowie, Arcade Fire?) to their overall sound and a weird sense of deja vu. I still enjoyed it, it held my attention and recalled some of the reasons I like this band. Enjoyable, well worth your time.
4
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Fri Dec 09 2022
2112
Rush
Rush was the first band I saw live, in 1978. It was a couple years after 2112 was released and I don't recall if they played any songs from this album, though to be honest I can't remember much from the concert, at least the songs they performed. They are very prog on this record (including a song that takes up all of side one...so prog!), and musically this is a dynamic, epic album, that proved to be a breakout record for the band. I was never a Rush fan (even though, I'm Canadian), I never got past Geddy's voice, but this album is more about concept and superior musicianship, I'll give it that.
3
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Mon Dec 12 2022
Foo Fighters
Foo Fighters
I didn't realize the first Foo Fighters album was a one-man show with Dave Grohl playing all the instruments and vocals, quite a feat for a drummer from his fairly well-known previous band. With this in mind, this album is an impressive feat, it's solid from start to finish and the energy and urgency gives the record it's strength, quite the debut! I can't say I'm a Foo Fighters fan, but from what I've heard on this and their later releases, I can't say I don't like it. This is probably my favourite Foo Fighters album, but it's the only one close to being essential.
4
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Tue Dec 13 2022
Cheap Thrills
Big Brother & The Holding Company
Clearly, Janis Joplin is the reason this album is a classic! Her unmistakable vocals are powerful and energetic, while the band sets the tone and vibe of the record. I often overlook this album, but it's hard not to like and the Robert Crumb cover artwork is a bonus.
4
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Wed Dec 14 2022
Yoshimi Battles The Pink Robots
The Flaming Lips
Epic sounding record, with layers of lush arrangements that are close to being over the top, but melodic and easy to listen to. I've only heard a smattering of Lips music and I enjoy most of it. This album I would consider a modern "masterpiece and probably their best album to date.
4
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Thu Dec 15 2022
Machine Gun Etiquette
The Damned
I didn't think the Damned could record a better album than their debut, Damned Damned Damned, but Machine Gun Etiquette comes close. It takes the energetic raw punk sound of the debut and it expands it with more depth and musical exploration. The songs are solid and overall the record is more consistent. If compared to their previous record, Music for Pleasure, it's a huge improvement and MGE brings back the pleasure in the music for Damned fans.
4
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Fri Dec 16 2022
Drunk
Thundercat
Easy on the ears, but don't see myself committed to musical relationship with Thundercat, as I don't feel a genuine connection. The songs are okay, though a little too bland for my taste, but maybe if I was drunk and desperate, this might be more interesting. Thanks, but no thanks.
3
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Mon Dec 19 2022
(Pronounced 'Leh-'Nérd 'Skin-'Nérd)
Lynyrd Skynyrd
Apart from the "hits", which is a southern hard rock sound, a lot of the record is more rootsy, folk stylings. I hadn't heard the deep tracks on the album before and I found it gives the band a little more depth than I've given them credit for. There are some outright classics on here (Freebird!, Gimme Three Steps), that Skynyrd are best known for, but overall, the record is solid and essential.
4
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Tue Dec 20 2022
My Aim Is True
Elvis Costello
There are several "game-changing" albums that helped shape my musical tastes and My Aim Is True is definitely one of them. This album helped define my love of late 70's British punk/New Wave rock that introduced me to similar sounding musicians and bands from the era, Graham Parker, Joe Jackson, Nick Lowe, Dave Edmunds (w/ Rockpile), Brinsley Schwarz and Ducks Deluxe. This was Elvis's amazing debut album and how many musicians have released 3 consecutive stunners from the start of their career this good? My Aim Is True has two of EC's career defining songs (Alison, Watching The Detectives) that are essential to any era and genre. His next album is even better with the addition of his semi-perma-band, The Attractions, but there's no doubt that wouldn't have been made without the accomplishment of My Aim Is True and it's impact and success..
5
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Wed Dec 21 2022
A Love Supreme
John Coltrane
More recently, I've been exploring and purchasing classic jazz albums. My first vinyl buy was a re-issue of A Love Supreme from John Coltrane without hearing any of it first. Of course, it blew me away and confirmed my new passion for jazz, which is beginning to snowball into an obsession. Great record, amazing lineup of super talent musicians and a recording that is seemingly timeless. A must-hear!
5
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Thu Dec 22 2022
Rings Around The World
Super Furry Animals
For my 300th review, I listened to Super Furry Animals album, Rings Around The World. An interesting listen, with a rich, lush sound and at times, the tunes have a retro feel, while others are sonically powerful and full. I enjoyed the album, not the best I've heard this week, but a well accomplished record, considering it's more recent than most on the list.
4
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Fri Dec 23 2022
Life's Too Good
The Sugarcubes
Having to endure at least three previous Bjork "projects" on this list, I wasn't looking forward to another. Bjork was a member of The Sugarcubes before she went solo and though she's still annoying and hard to listen to most of the time, it was a much easier to handle because I liked the sound of the band. A more standard, less unique, alt-rock style, the songs are catchy and at times quite good. The guy singing is also annoying, so it made me not hate Bjork's vocals so much. Believe it or not, I might even listen to this again!
3
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Mon Dec 26 2022
Parachutes
Coldplay
I've only heard Coldplay via shows like SNL or when Chris Martin has guested on TV shows (Modern Family, Extras, Simpsons). They try hard to portray themselves as a sensitive, sentimental pop band than wants to be loved. I've read the backlash and hatred towards Coldplay that puts them in a similar category with Nickleback and James Blunt, songwriters/musicians that cause a divisive reaction when their music is played. If you put those opinions aside, what we have is an average British pop band that is somewhat overrated and musically nothing special. At first glance, they sound pleasant and positive, but after listening to the entire album, they leave me with a feeling of over-compensating sincerity. One listen was enough, I don't need to hear more and yes, I'm starting to believe the anti-Coldplay hype is justified.
3
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Tue Dec 27 2022
C'est Chic
CHIC
At the time this album came out, I despised all Disco and couldn't stand anything this funky to dance to. Years later, my views and listening habits have "matured" and I can appreciate the musicianship and production that went into this music. I still don't purposely listen to Disco, but I won't turn it off or rant about how it's ruining rock 'n' roll if it comes on. It is what it is and it's not the worst way of spending an hour.
3
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Wed Dec 28 2022
Hard Again
Muddy Waters
Though this album was recorded during the later part of his career, Hard Again, re-established Muddy Waters as one of the true Blues greats of our time. He sounds fresh and rejuvenated and his performance is top notch, making this an enjoyable listen. Makes me regret never seeing Muddy live!
4
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Thu Dec 29 2022
Black Holes and Revelations
Muse
A bit underwhelming, but it was still a pleasant listen and there is some good stuff here. Not something I'll spin regularly, but wouldn't turn it off if this came on.
3
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Fri Dec 30 2022
Hms Fable
Shack
I had never heard of this, so I expected this would sound like 90's Brit-Pop. At times it does, they definitely sound like Oasis on some tracks, while on others they almost sound like they could be American. This was an interesting and enjoyable listen, will have to listen again to get the full scope of the band.
4
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Mon Jan 02 2023
Closer
Joy Division
I've haven't listened to much Joy Division, but what I've heard has been fine. I must admit the music didn't grab me and pull me in, instead it served as good background music that was enjoyable.
3
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Tue Jan 03 2023
A Hard Day's Night
Beatles
One of the best early albums by the Beatles when they definitely found their groove with a consistent album of hits and strong material. The filler is slimmed down without any throwaway songs. A solid record!
4
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Wed Jan 04 2023
Francis Albert Sinatra & Antonio Carlos Jobim
Frank Sinatra
Generally, I'm not a big Frank Sinatra fan, but i was curious to hear his collaboration with Jobim. I enjoyed the bossa nova styling and the record gets off to a promising start with the classic, Girl From Ipanema, though I still prefer the Getz/Gilberto version. I thought the album lost some of it's charm towards the end, but overall Sinatra does a valiant effort with the material.
3
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Thu Jan 05 2023
With The Beatles
Beatles
On the second album by the Beatles, they are still playing a lot of covers and their originals are getting better, but still haven't reached anywhere close to their potential. A strong record with the band bringing the energy from their live shows to the studio. Their earlier albums are good, but the best is yet to come. ***1/2 out of 5
3
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Fri Jan 06 2023
Crosby, Stills & Nash
Crosby, Stills & Nash
This album contains a couple timeless classic songs that surpassed anything the trio produced during their solo careers, as their best music was as a group. This album is good, but their followup with Neil Young is even better. There's no doubt this record should be on this list, even for younger listeners, because of the influence it gave to it's genre. For older folks, this could the soundtrack of their lives from the late 60's.
4
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Mon Jan 09 2023
Cypress Hill
Cypress Hill
Good rhymes and good beats that kept me interested and wanting to hear more. With that being said, I'm not a fan of Hip Hop or Rap and found it nu-relatable, but it was listenable and guiltily pleasurable.
3
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Tue Jan 10 2023
Strangeways, Here We Come
The Smiths
Back in the day, I never got into The Smiths. My sister had their albums, I listened, they sounded okay, inoffensive, lush (at times), even keel music that was fine, but to me they were boring. I liked similar sounding bands and always felt The Smiths were a tad bit overrated and couldn't understand why they gained so much success and acclaim. This album is a good record, most of them are, but for me, not essential.
3
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Wed Jan 11 2023
Music in Exile
Songhoy Blues
The opening track on Music In Exile, begins with a blast, tasty guitar sounds of upbeat blues! It settles into a satisfying album of interesting songs and musical stylings I rarely have heard. The only drawback is I wish I understood the lyrics and the meaning of the songs since it isn't sung in English, but it's well sung and doesn't detract too much. I wouldn't have otherwise heard this, if not for this list, thanks! I will listen again.
4
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Thu Jan 12 2023
Time Out
The Dave Brubeck Quartet
Even if you haven't listened to or understand Jazz, Time Out is a good starting out point. The songs sound familiar and you swear you've heard them before and you definitely know, Take 5, which has to be the most recognizable jazz song ever. Buy the album on vinyl (not CD!) and make sure to prop up the album jacket near your stereo system to provide you with enough Jazz cred to be cool. Really though, this is essential listening!
5
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Fri Jan 13 2023
Blood And Chocolate
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
I tend to categorize Elvis Costello's album in three levels and categories, his first three or four albums are at the top of the list, the next level down would be some of his mid-80's records that are often overlooked and then a handful of throwaway records through the 90's and 2000's that are listenable, but far past his prime. I would rank Blood and Chocolate in the second level, a solid album of really good songs that is underrated and sometimes overlooked. It's not among his best albums, but he seems to be near the top of his game with outstanding contributions from The Attractions and producer, Nick Lowe. Definitely worth a listen.
4
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Mon Jan 16 2023
Funeral
Arcade Fire
Truly one the finest debut albums by a Canadian band, Funeral shines on almost every track and continues to be Arcade Fire's greatest achievement. I saw the band during the Funeral tour when it came out and I can't think of a better concert I've seen and the intensity and pure physical energy the band puts fore during their live shows was something to see. I've seen them since and the songs from Funeral are still the highlights of the shows. With Win Butler's recent douchey (toxic) behaviour with some fans, I can't bring myself to give 5 stars, the music and album deserve it, but the band has left me with question marks.
4
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Tue Jan 17 2023
Mr. Tambourine Man
The Byrds
A brilliant debut album by the pioneers of the folk-rock genre with their jangly guitar sound that has been often imitated, but never quite as good as the Byrd's signature sound. Though this album is best known for the covers of Dylan songs, it's their original songs that take this record to the next level. Influential still to this day, this album is one of their best.
4
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Wed Jan 18 2023
Urban Hymns
The Verve
Overall the album is fine, there are some tracks I really like, yet there were many that aren't memorable. Fairly generic sounding Brit-Pop and If I played tracks of Oasis and The Verve, I probably couldn't differentiate the two bands and at times, I swear I was listening to U2. Nothing special here, but a pleasant and enjoyable listen. ***1/2
3
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Thu Jan 19 2023
Shadowland
k.d. lang
Did not enjoy this album. I don't mind K.D's earlier work with the Inclines with her high energy country and western, cow-punk style, but with her solo debut, she drags this genre to a loungy C & W, easy-listening pace that makes me wonder if this was meant as parody or a genuine attempt to pay tribute to Patsy Cline. At times, the arrangements come across as cheesy and it was sometimes painful to listen to and is only saved somewhat by her always incredible voice. There are other albums of K.D. I would deem more essential than Shadowland.
2
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Fri Jan 20 2023
In The Court Of The Crimson King
King Crimson
A classic prog-rock album that remains King Crimson's masterpiece. I first heard this on 8-track in our van and the title track rattled the hollow shell of the van interior even with it's shitty sound. Unfortunately, with 8-track tapes, some longer tracks are split up (mid-song) and that was the case with, In The Court of the Crimson King. Hearing on a proper stereo (or on headphones), it really highlights the details and lushness of the sound and the epic magnitude of the songs. Based just on a couple track of the key tracks, this could be 5 stars, but I felt some of the quieter, weird jazzy bits dragged it down a bit.
4
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Mon Jan 23 2023
It Takes A Nation Of Millions To Hold Us Back
Public Enemy
Politically and influentially, this is an important album of hip hop and rap. Musically, the beats and the sampling are fine, though overall it doesn't move me or make me want to hear more. I acknowledge this is essential for some and I don't dislike it, but it's not for me.
3
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Tue Jan 24 2023
Fear Of A Black Planet
Public Enemy
Two back to back Public Enemy albums? I didn't exactly give the previous one (It Takes A Nation...) a glowing review, I thought it was listenable and well done. Fear Of A Black Planet, I thought was more engaging with more interesting beats and as a whole was a more solid record. I'm still not a fan of the genre, so I have hesitation to give it a super glowing review, but this is as good as it gets for me for rap, so let's move on!
4
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Wed Jan 25 2023
More Specials
The Specials
Not a bad listen, I have been known to listen to some ska and the songs have an accessible soul sound. A bit blah at times, not as solid and consistent as their debut album, so overall nothing special here.
3
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Thu Jan 26 2023
Innervisions
Stevie Wonder
Enjoyable enough, lots to like here and Stevie is in fine form. Solid, yet I was starting to lose interest about half way through. Not really a big fan of Stevie, though it's hard to dislike him and Higher Ground is definitely a great song!
3
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Fri Jan 27 2023
People's Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm
A Tribe Called Quest
I didn't know what to expect and I have to admit I enjoyed it. It's not something I would listen to often, but it was refreshing and the sampling definitely brought a different element to the music. A fairly safe hip-hop/rap choice.
3
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Mon Jan 30 2023
Wild Wood
Paul Weller
An interesting listen, as I'm familiar with Weller through The Jam, a band I love, though their style gradually began to shift towards of end the band's run and evolved into Weller's next band, The Style Council. I wasn't a big fan of the Style Council, probably because they weren't the Jam, as they moved away from anything punk and it bored me. This Weller solo album caught me by surprise because it sounds so much like the 70's (English and American), perhaps like something Steve Winwood would record (Traffic?), with a easy-listening, AOR sound. I liked a lot of it and some I didn't care for as much, but overall it's a mature sounding record, clearly not concerned with radio hits or commercial success, so I have to give him credit for that.
4
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Tue Jan 31 2023
Who's Next
The Who
Arguably, this was The Who's masterpiece. Tommy and Quadrophenia, both were epic double albums and in some ways were more important accomplishments, but what set, Who's Next apart is the fact it's a single record under 45 minutes. There is less filler and features some of their most recognizable songs, Won't Get Fooled Again and Baba O'Riley. It's also contains other great songs, Behind Blue Eyes (a beautiful tune), Bargain, My Wife (sung and written by Entwistle) and Going Mobile (sung by Townsend), that place this album as one of their best. It was a good decision by Pete Townsend to condense his, Lifehouse project down to the 9 tracks that appeared on the record. Not to mention, the classic album cover photo!
5
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Wed Feb 01 2023
Black Metal
Venom
You can understand why heavy metal is so easily parodied, the cliches are all here starting with the band name (Venom!), the album title (black (darkness)+metal= Black Metal!), the song titles (To Hell and Back, Buried Alive, Raise The Dead, Leave Me In Hell, Sacrifice, At War with Satan...), album cover (demon face+inverted pentacle star+666+inverted cross=satanic imagery, obviously!). I don't generally enjoy heavy metal music, but can appreciate the effort, (sometimes) this hits all the anti-mainstream sub-genres, speed metal, thrash metal, extreme metal, black metal, but it feels like they're trying way too hard to be offensive and satanic. I'm not offended, but they take themselves way too seriously and though punk and hardcore are musical cousins, at least most punk (and HC) bands have a sense of humour (well, maybe not Rollins!) and/or have an awareness they aren't demon anti-Christs that are saving the world.
2
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Thu Feb 02 2023
Group Sex
Circle Jerks
Last post, I compared punk/Hardcore to Heavy dark metal, in that Metal sometimes takes themselves too seriously and punk at least has a sense of humour and is angry music in a different way. I was directly thinking of the Circle Jerks, probably the first hardcore punk band I liked and was amused by their political and social messaging in their songs. Group Sex is my first exposure to the Jerks and boy did it make an impression! There 14 songs in just over 15 minutes, yet this is an epic record that remains one of the best of it's genre. It's tight, it's fast and it actual made me laugh a few times because of the absurdity of the songs and the pure raw energy of the band. Back in the day, I put this album and Wild In The Street on one side of a 90 minute cassette (Buzzcocks on the other side) and it was probably my most played tape. Still play it to this day!
4
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Fri Feb 03 2023
Hot Buttered Soul
Isaac Hayes
The last album I reviewed contained 14 songs in 15 minutes of running time, HBS has only 4 songs with two lengthy songs over 12 minutes each. On the 18:42, By The Time I Get to Phoenix, Hayes spends a good part of the first half of the song talking and by the time he gets to the music the song is halfway done. As a general preference, I'm not a huge fan of epic length songs, but the opening track (12:03), the Bacharach/David, Walk On By, is a great song and it doesn't seem too long. It's a nice groove to open with and overall it's nice listen. Previously, I had only heard Hayes because of the Theme From Shaft and this is a solid record from the Soul legend.
3
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Mon Feb 06 2023
Illinois
Sufjan Stevens
I first heard Sufjan Stevens with his Michigan album and was intrigued by the concept of an album for every US state and wondered how far he'd get (spoiler alert: he didn't get very far). It's a shame he didn't get beyond Illinois, but what he did accomplish with this album was quite an achievement. Michigan was a really good record and Illinois was even better with even more focus and detail in the lyrics about the state and the music continued to impress. The music is beautiful and lavishly performed with orchestrated details that are beyond anything I expected from an indie performer and he explores many genres with much competence. Illinois is one of my favourite states and he does it justice with a near-great album.
4
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Tue Feb 07 2023
The Clash
The Clash
An appropriate album to rate, since today is International Clash Day! The Clash is one of the best Punk debut albums, not only punk, but any genre. I would consider this even better than Never Mind The Bollocks and the first album by the Ramones. From start to finish, the songs hit fast and hard, clear and concise, a true punk classic. Definitely essential!
5
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Wed Feb 08 2023
Tapestry
Carole King
I don't own this album, but being of a certain age, most people I know do. Tapestry is one of the top selling albums of all time, so the odds are pretty good there's a copy in your parents home and for good reason, it's a classic record. From an era when albums were at it's peak, this record contains so many hit singles, making this King's "greatest hits" album and when listening to it, you'll probably recognize most of the songs or have heard them at some point. This album is the gold standard for female singer-songwriters and though I don't own a copy, it certainly is an essential listen for anyone that enjoys good pop music, which I do.
4
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Thu Feb 09 2023
Something Else By The Kinks
The Kinks
First of all, the Kinks are one of my favourite bands of all time and they have released a ton of good music, I would rank Something Else in my top 3 Kinks albums. This album began an amazing run of albums from the late 60's to early 70's (Arthur, Lola, Village Green and Muswell) which is a testament to the great songwriting and musicianship of the band. Something Else doesn't rely just on hit singles, though arguably Waterloo Sunset is one their best, it's a wonderful collection of eclectic songs filled with nostalgia, sentiment and humor. How many bands can use a harpsichord to good effect (Two sisters) in a "rock song? If you think of the Kinks only because of All Day and All Night, You Really Got Me and Lola, explore the depth and brilliance of these essential albums for the full Kinks experience.
5
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Fri Feb 10 2023
All Things Must Pass
George Harrison
Full disclosure: I've owned this album for years and I don't think I've actually listened to all 3 LP's, for sure not at the same time. To properly review this sprawling album set, I did listen to all of it and my immediate impression is that if it was a single album it would be hands down 5 stars. Even as a double album, it's loaded with good songs (a couple of his best) some filler and it's still a rewarding listen. The third album contains the longer jams, which is interesting, but in modern day releases, this would be the bonus tracks separate from the main album. As it is overall, this is Harrison's masterpiece, with world class musician friends as support and it's truly is an epic record, too bad it's a tad bit long.
4
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Mon Feb 13 2023
Disintegration
The Cure
An okay listen, didn't really resonate with me, but I listened to the whole thing without feeling I didn't like it. Seems to be a lot of Cure on the list.
3
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Tue Feb 14 2023
Dance Mania
Tito Puente
When I think of Latin music, this is pretty much it! This is the real deal, from one the best in the genre, bandleader, Tito Puente. High energy, infectious beats, how can you sit on your ass when you listen to this. Much appreciated background music, but if you were in a club this would be fun. Not usually what I would listen to, but so much better than most of the albums on this list.
4
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Wed Feb 15 2023
Gris Gris
Dr. John
Interesting listen, most of it enjoyable. Probably would be enhanced with the proper mood. Perhaps it would be something to throw on late at night in a dimly lit room and a bottle of booze. Reminds me a bit of Tom Waits, which is always a good thing.
3
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Thu Feb 16 2023
Meat Puppets II
Meat Puppets
The Meat Puppets are one of those hardcore punk bands on SST that evolved to a more mainstream sound, from fast and loud to chill and low key. I have Meat Puppets II on both vinyl and cassette, despite the fact I'm not a huge follower of the band. The first record was too fast and unintelligible, while their albums after II were a bit boring for my taste. On the second album, I compare it to the Replacements, Hootenanny album, their breakthrough record where their sound brought in more musical genres, styles and wrote more accessible songs. For me, this album was my sweet-spot, I still enjoyed the off-key vocals, ragged, sometimes off putting songs and it was punk enough to keep my interest. Though their sound is not for everyone's taste, I really like this album. Love the cover art too!
4
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Fri Feb 17 2023
AmeriKKKa's Most Wanted
Ice Cube
Thanks to this list, I've been exposed to more rap and hip-hop music than ever before. I can't begin to say I'm an expert or even understand a lot of it, but at least I can differentiate genuine badass rap from wanna-be bullshit crap and Ice Cube's first solo album is the real deal! The beats are great and he has lots to say, with the obvious misogyny aside, many of the issues are still relevant today. A solid record and a good listen.
4
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Mon Feb 20 2023
Goo
Sonic Youth
Goo was the follow-up to Daydream Nation, which I would consider Sonic Youth's masterpiece, and it had the added pressure of being their major label debut. Up to this point it became their most commercially successful with an increased audience and fan base. The music was less noisy than their previous records and for the most part, was their most accessible sounding album. This was an important alternative/punk record that was a commercial breakthrough and paved the way for the mainstream success for bands like, Nirvana and Green Day. I like the sound of this record as they still retain their raw, primal energy, while the structure of the songs are shorter and more listenable. Personally, I feel Goo and Daydream Nation were the peak period for Sonic Youth.
4
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Tue Feb 21 2023
Tres Hombres
ZZ Top
I didn't realize this record was from so early in the 70's though their music has been a staple radio during the 70's and on classic rock stations. They've been on my radar since I was a teen, I like their music, but it didn't engage me enough and I didn't have the desire to buy their records or see them live. Above average 70's rock, there's lot more enjoyable bands/music, but if you're forced to listen to something on the radio, Zed Zed (I'm Canadian) is okay and not the worst choice...
3
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Wed Feb 22 2023
Speakerboxxx/The Love Below
OutKast
The music doesn't interest me at all and it was a challenge to listen to the whole thing. I lost the challenge after about an hour and a half and had to turn it off. Self indulgent and boring are just two of the words that come to mind. No.
2
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Thu Feb 23 2023
Atomizer
Big Black
Wonderfully noisy, loud and intense, so not an ideal background music while reading novels on a sunny afternoon. In the proper context and environment, like sitting in a dark damp basement, a respectably decent album that raises your heartbeat. Slightly above average, but probably won't revisit this for a while and I won't miss it.
3
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Fri Feb 24 2023
Picture Book
Simply Red
Besides the hit singles from this album by Simply Red, I hadn't heard the rest of the songs and was somewhat surprised how jazz-influenced it is. Mick has a strong voice and carries the songs, but the music has a slick faux-jazz, R & B sound that is okay, but wears thin quickly. I was never a fan of Simply Red, simply because of the songs I heard on the radio never interested me. As a whole, a strong debut, but definitely not my idea of essential.
3
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Mon Feb 27 2023
Coat Of Many Colors
Dolly Parton
When I was growing up, this was what country music sounded like and I have to admit I'm not a fan, though Dolly makes it a little more tolerable. Parton is now in the Rock 'n' Roll Hall of fame, but don't be fooled, there is NO rock and/roll on this record! The album itself is listenable and there are some worthwhile songs on here, but the genre generally is miserable and avoidable, at least for my tastes. Sorry Dolly!
3
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Tue Feb 28 2023
Mama's Gun
Erykah Badu
I'm not usually a fan of funky hip hop soul jazz, but her voice is so easy to love and the music was very nice to listen to. Can't really remember specific songs and I didn't listen too closely to the lyrics, so I'm probably not the most "qualified" to review this album. I didn't have much expectations before, so I was pleasantly surprised I liked, I liked it a lot! Recommended, but not essential.
4
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Wed Mar 01 2023
Me Against The World
2Pac
2Stars for 2Pac.
2
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Thu Mar 02 2023
1984
Van Halen
With an album and title track called, 1984, predictably the album opens with a cheezy "futuristic" instrumental which is an indication the synths have invaded the Van Halen sound. Jump was a song the Winnipeg Jets used back in the 80's when the team took the ice. To bring back the nostalgia of the "old days", they have started to play the song again to remind fans how shitty the team was. Panama and Hot For Teacher rocks out like the "old days", but the rest of the record brings out the worst of the supposed "hair metal" genre which in reality is a watered down version of synth/glam rock gone wrong and mugging to the camera on MTV. The last VH record that mattered if you're a fan and for the rest of us, please go away!
3
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Fri Mar 03 2023
The Rise & Fall
Madness
Madness is one of those many British bands that had moderate success in England, but didn't enjoy as much of a fan base in America. The music is fine, the band explores a wider range of musical styles beyond ska, which for the most part works, but I feel they're a bit generic and not memorable. I enjoyed it, I just can't understand how this made the essential list.
3
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Mon Mar 06 2023
Fresh Fruit for Rotting Vegetables
Dead Kennedys
Much better than I was expecting. Not just stupid fast hardcore, but intelligent, punk rock that had substance and musically more diverse than your average punk band. Don't really want to say I thoroughly enjoyed, but I was intrigued and wanted to hear more. This is an important band and for some would be essential, at the very least they were influential and original.
4
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Tue Mar 07 2023
Songs Of Love And Hate
Leonard Cohen
Leonard Cohen released a lot of albums and his early works remain his strongest. I'm not a fan of Cohen, but his early records have a certain appeal and if you enjoy dreary, depressing stories, he's the man for you. In a proper mood and listening environment, this is good stuff, but doesn't seem like the type of music appropriate your workout or upbeat party. Proceed with caution. The title says it all, definitely songs of love and hate!
4
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Wed Mar 08 2023
Back At The Chicken Shack
Jimmy Smith
After listening to, Back At the Chicken Shack by Jimmy Smith, I have to reconsider my dislike for the organ. Through it's association with church and sporting events, I never really consider the organ I viable instrument in a band, but this record is a fabulous jazz album that is enhanced by the warmth of Mr. Smith's organ. Perfect background music for a cool brisk day dreaming of summer. Very nice!
4
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Thu Mar 09 2023
The Hangman's Beautiful Daughter
The Incredible String Band
I'm usually open to most genres of music and I enjoy most folk music and can appreciate the musicianship and skill. After listening to The Hangman's Beautiful Daughter, I realize there are exceptions. If you take the worst aspects of Donovan's psychedelic period, mix it with the most intolerant Irish Rovers songs fronted by a horrible singer, you have the Incredibly Horrible String Band. My lowest rating on this list is reserved for unlistenable, grating, abrasive music I can't stand (usually metal and rap) and I can add this to the lowest of the low. More proof that "folk" music can be played by all, it's just somehow someone thinks this is essential, what???
1
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Fri Mar 10 2023
Duck Rock
Malcolm McLaren
A wide range of musical styles and genre make for a strange, though interesting mix of music that is somehow associated with Malcolm McLaren? I've never taken anything seriously from Malcolm (Pistols, perfect example) and I found it a challenging listen, but if you listen to it without any pretenses or expectations, the music is fun and spirited.
3
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Mon Mar 13 2023
Sweet Baby James
James Taylor
When I think of the career defining album of James Taylor, it's only, Sweet Baby James. Not only it his top selling, critically acclaimed and highest charted album (?), it's also his most consistent and memorable. If you're new to Taylor, skip the greatest hits record and start with SBJ. It contains his most classic songs before he became boring and self-indulgent.
4
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Tue Mar 14 2023
Sheer Heart Attack
Queen
The Killer Queen 45 was the first Queen music I bought and the album, Sheer Heart Attack remains one of my favourite albums (tied with Bohemian Rhapsody) of Queen. After their first two meandering albums, Queen pulled it together and released a great rock record, that straddled the genres of prog and metal and with songs like, Killer Queen, Flick Of The Wrist and Brighton Rock, proved the band can write radio-friendly music. I bailed on the band after, Day At The Races as they became much too mainstream and pop music hit machines. It's too bad.
4
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Wed Mar 15 2023
Sound Affects
The Jam
The Jam released a lot of really good albums and Sound Affects is overall one of their finest moments. I think it's their most complete and consistent albums with some classic tracks such as, Start!, Boy About Town, Monday and perhaps Paul Weller's masterpiece, That's Entertainment. A beautiful and wonderfully full sound that reminds me of peak period late 60's, Kinks. Definitely essential!
5
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Thu Mar 16 2023
Vol. 4
Black Sabbath
Can't say I'm a fan of Ozzy, but when I need to hear Ozzy at his best, the first four Black Sabbath albums is all you need. This is hard rocking, stoner rock at it's best, when heavy metal wasn't about hair spray and wanna-be posers and all about loud guitars, heavy bass, tight drums and worshiping the devil. Oh, the early 70's was a good time for music!
3
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Fri Mar 17 2023
Sail Away
Randy Newman
Long before Randy Newman sold his soul to the Disney corporation, Newman was considered a legitimately talented singer-songwriter musician type who produced critically acclaimed records. His early 70's albums are interesting and quite good, but then he had a big hit (Short People) and things blew up from there. Then for whatever reason Disney came calling and yes, he sold out to the mouse. Sail Away is an okay enough, can't say I didn't like it, but it's hard to listen to the songs without thinking about Buzz and Woody.
3
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Mon Mar 20 2023
My Generation
The Who
One of the most important debut albums of the 60's that introduced us to The Who, who continue to tour even to this day. My Generation may not be their greatest album, but the title track is THE song I think of when I think of The Who and powerful, intense, explosive sound of the album was the blueprint for the trademark Who sound. They are still finding their footing, as they are still playing some covers, but by the third album, Townsend's songwriting was better than any covers. Essential, but there are better Who albums.
4
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Tue Mar 21 2023
Shake Your Money Maker
The Black Crowes
When this album first came out I dismissed it as a poor man's, Faces. Clearly, Chris Robinson was channeling his best Rod Stewart impression and his brother Rich, emulating his Ron Wood/Keith Richards side-kick role. I couldn't deny, I liked the music, as I enjoy bar-band, basic rock 'n' roll. Listening now all these years later and I can hear the appeal of band as they have continued to deliver a solid rock/blues sound. I should also appreciate the fact the music at the time on the radio was moving away from the rock format to a more pop, hip-hoppy, youth targeted style I loathe so much. The Crowes had kept alive the spirit of classic 70's rock and updated it. Their debut is still their best album, filled with some good songs and is well worth re-discovering.
4
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Wed Mar 22 2023
Slayed?
Slade
Apart from the song, Come On Feel the Noize, I hadn't listened to any Slade and that was second-hand as that song "popularized" by Quiet Riot, annoys the crap out of me anytime I hear it on the radio. Slade is an okay rock band, though so generic they are hard to differentiate from other similar sounding 70's hard rock bands and you can hear their influence on early Queen. I listened to the whole thing, because there wasn't much to hate, but I will take a pass if I see a Slade album at the record store.
2
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Thu Mar 23 2023
Wild Is The Wind
Nina Simone
Nina Simone is regarded as one of the finest vocalists of our time and this album highlights her strong and powerful voice. I hadn't listened to much Simone, it captivated me, but lost a bit of my attention towards the end. Overall, well worth the listen, but it requires you to be in the proper mood and mindset to enjoy it to the maximum.
4
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Fri Mar 24 2023
The Poet
Bobby Womack
Don't really have a knowledge of what makes good R & B album, so I will have to rate it based on my tolerance level. It was fine listen, didn't have any complaints or a reason to not like it. The listening flew by, which is a good sign , but even now I can't remember much of what I listened to. Not forgettable, but just not what I would listen to normally or would seek out.
3
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Mon Mar 27 2023
Arthur (Or the Decline and Fall of the British Empire)
The Kinks
Classic record from the Kinks. The Kinks were known in their early days for their hit singles, but by the mid-60's they strung together some great albums. Except for maybe, Victoria, songs from Arthur weren't on greatest hit albums, instead the album was consistently excellent with well crafted and intelligent songs written by the Davies brothers. This is peak Kinks, one of my all-time favourite albums and it holds up today as one of their finest achievements of their career. Must hear, essential!
5
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Tue Mar 28 2023
Channel Orange
Frank Ocean
Slick and smooth sounding, but didn't really engage me enough to care about what the songs were about. It was nice to listen to, I liked most of it and I didn't have the urge to turn it off, which is a good thing.
3
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Wed Mar 29 2023
A Date With The Everly Brothers
The Everly Brothers
I have this album on vinyl in my attempt to listen to more Everly's album tracks instead of only the "Best Of" or "Greatest Hits" compilations. Apart from Cathy's Clown and Love Hurts, the rest of the songs are fine, but the quality is inconsistent. Short, but overall very listenable and enjoyable.
3
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Thu Mar 30 2023
The Stranger
Billy Joel
After a run of uneven and commercially disappointing albums in the early 70's, Joel hit it big with the release of The Stranger. This was my introduction to Billy Joel with plenty of radio play for Just The Way You Are and The Good Die Young which fit in with what I was listening to at the time (Elton John, Paul McCartney...etc). I didn't buy this album, as most of the good songs were already on the radio, back in a time when I used to tape songs directly off the radio. I hadn't heard the whole record in a while and I must admit it brings a lot of nostalgic memories. I would never admit I'm a fan of Joel's music, but this album personally is all I need to hear from his exhaustive catalogue.
4
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Fri Mar 31 2023
american dream
LCD Soundsystem
A pleasant listen, not usually what I would listen to, but enjoyable enough. I can hear a lot of different influences and musical styles, so it was interesting, though I had it on mainly as background music.
3
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Mon Apr 03 2023
Elastica
Elastica
At the time when the debut album from Elastica was released, I didn't pay much attention to the record. It was a time when alternative bands were becoming more noticed and female fronted bands from the the Riot Grrrl era were getting much attention and signed by mainstream labels. What a time for music, lots of good music being produced from bands that were otherwise considered underground and alternative. Elastica had a cleaner, more polished post-punk sound and image that I now realize is a band I should have taken notice of more. This album is high energy, loud and incredibly catchy. All thriller, no filler and I'm so sorry I didn't catch on earlier. Unfortunately, besides a second album in 2000, I would consider the band a one-album wonder, but oh what an album!
4
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Tue Apr 04 2023
At Newport 1960
Muddy Waters
Classic Blues, a raw, live performance from the great Muddy Waters! Authentic American blues that obviously had an influence on the British hard rock bands of the late 60's/early 70's such as Zeppelin, Yardbirds, Fleetwood Mac, the Stones, Hendrix...etc . Put aside your Clapton records and give this a listen, this is the real deal!
4
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Wed Apr 05 2023
Raising Hell
Run-D.M.C.
This is the mainstream rap/hip hop I grew up hearing thanks to music television (MuchMusic) and the album was a huge hit and definitely helped to popularize the genre. Listening now, it feels like a parody of rap and I can't take the music seriously. With that being said, it's listenable and a good non-threatening gateway entry to the genre if you like this sort of thing.
3
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Thu Apr 06 2023
A Northern Soul
The Verve
Not a bad listen, underwhelming at times, but for the most part a decent effort. For me, so many Brit-pop bands remind me of Radiohead with Bono from U2 on vocals, which is okay, but a bit too generic sounding for my tastes.
3
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Fri Apr 07 2023
Q: Are We Not Men? A: We Are Devo
Devo
This is one of those albums I bought recently because everyone should own this record on vinyl. For novelty and nostalgic reasons, Devo is one of those one-of-a kind bands that had an interesting concept and took it as far as they could. I first saw them on TV (SNL or Fridays?) around this time and well, they were hilarious! Personally, I liked them best on the early albums, as their sound was fresh and exciting on the debut, but loses steam towards the end. Still an enjoyable listen and you can't help, but visualize those goofy hats.
4
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Mon Apr 10 2023
Liquid Swords
GZA
Not really my genre, so I'm not a fan, but it was a solidly good listen. Enjoyed it enough to listen to the end, so that's saying something.
3
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Tue Apr 11 2023
Winter In America
Gil Scott-Heron
Kinda groovy and funky, with a cool laid-back sound. Not a bad listen on a sunny afternoon looking out at the melting snow in the yard. I guess this is what defines easy listening music.
3
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Wed Apr 12 2023
Steve McQueen
Prefab Sprout
I don't know why, but I've never listened to Prefab Sprout until now. I may have had a preconceived opinion of the band without hearing them thinking they were another boring Brit-Pop band. From the first track until the end I was pleasantly surprised they sounded good and I ended up enjoying the album. A solid record that isn't stuck in one genre or style and overall a fun and interesting listen. On the bonus disc, I appreciated the acoustic versions of the songs that really showcase the strength of the songwriting.
4
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Thu Apr 13 2023
I'm Your Man
Leonard Cohen
Not a fan of Cohen's "modern" sound, but it did revitalize his career and found a new younger audience for his work. There are some good songs on here and maybe even some of his best known works. Let's face it, he's not a great singer and I prefer his earliest albums, but someone thinks he's cool. His old fans (middle-age women) and younger woman in their 20's love this old French-Canadian guy for some reason. He's just not my man.
3
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Fri Apr 14 2023
The Band
The Band
A great album by the Band with some true classic songs, along with some deep tracks that make this a solid record. Still sounds fine after all these years!
4
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Mon Apr 17 2023
Bad Company
Bad Company
I remember when I bought a used copy of this album in the early 80's I was slightly disappointed. I knew this "super-group" had many radio hits and were highly regarded, but it was duller and less dynamic than I hoped. It's not to say the album wasn't good, it has many memorable songs on it, but I was still underwhelmed. I always liked Mick Ralphs from his time with Mott the Hoople and he wrote the best songs on the album. Can't Get Enough is a solid rocker and I prefer the Ralph's sung, Mott version of, "Ready For Love". Movin' On was also recorded with Mott before he joined B.C. Still, this is one of Bad Company's best albums and worth having in your collection. 3.5/5
3
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Tue Apr 18 2023
Fever To Tell
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
When this first came out I was excited to hear it. It was a sonically, fast attack of female-fronted indie-rock that was refreshing and much needed coming out of the grunge era. This led to similar sounding bands around this time, but this debut by the Yeah Yeah Yeahs remains a high point and personally speaking, the best from the band. Haven't cared much for their other releases, as their sound wears thin and tired after a while.
4
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Wed Apr 19 2023
The Village Green Preservation Society
The Kinks
Classic album by the Kinks! Peak period for the Kinks with an album devoid of any hit singles, yet has a strong collection of songs that highlight the quality songwriting and musicianship that has been the core strength of the band. This probably was a commercial flop at the time, but artistry shouldn't be judged by sales. This is one of the few deluxe box sets I own, because I want to hear all the music from the recording sessions over multiple vinyl platters, both mono and stereo. I can't say the same for most albums.
5
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Thu Apr 20 2023
Ray Of Light
Madonna
As much as I wanted to like this album, it starts out strong, it has it's moments and some of the songs are enjoyable, but eventually it felt too long and ran out of good ideas. I started to sound all too familiar, like a heard it before. I'm not a Madonna fan, at all, and I do my best to avoid reading about her personal life or listen to her music. You can do a lot worse than Ray of Light, probably the only Madonna record I listened to from top to bottom, but personally, this is not essential, at all, even if I was a Madonna fan.
3
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Fri Apr 21 2023
Before And After Science
Brian Eno
I was wasn't expecting much, as I know some of Eno's work is challenging to listen to, so I was pleasantly surprised it wasn't bad. Sounds similar to bands he was producing around this time, Talking Heads, Bowie (not surprising) and his music is somewhat interesting without sounding commercial (also not surprising). A solid listen, but not for all tastes.
3
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Mon Apr 24 2023
Back In Black
AC/DC
You can't deny the appeal of AC/DC, especially if you're a male that just wants to rock out! I was in high school when this album was released and the cool headbanger kids (yes, it's an oxymoron) had their logo drawn in pen on the back of their jean jackets. I don't see any appeal for girls that age unless they aspire to hangout with the burnouts and if Bevis or Butthead wears their shirt, they must be cool!. This is the type of music you crank up in your car or at home after a hard day at school or the office, take off the necktie, put on a black t, turn to volume to 11 and turn your brain off for an hour. It might seem silly to be stuck listening to the same band for 40 years, but who doesn't like living in the past, right?
4
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Tue Apr 25 2023
Songs For Swingin' Lovers!
Frank Sinatra
If you have a fever for old-time crooners, a dose of Frank Sinatra is just what the doctor ordered. If you wanted to describe Frank's music to a newbie, play this album, it's a classic Sinatra album and it's a perfect example of his sound. He's the original Bublé and no one can croon the standards like Sinatra!
3
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Wed Apr 26 2023
The Piper At The Gates Of Dawn
Pink Floyd
I like to equate psychedelic-rock with abstract art because it's hard to judge when it's good, but you know when it's bad. The sound of this art-rock debut from Pink Floyd, is a long way from the sound of their masterpiece, Dark Side Of The Moon released many years later and almost sounds like a different band. There are small glimpses of what was to come, but this is the only PF album with founding member, Syd Barrett. It's full of weird and strange psychedelic sounds that is sometimes painful and difficult to listen to, but there must be something to this, right? I've tried to listen to this record several times over the years and finally listened to it in it's entirety for this review. If you listen to it for what it is (a "art-rock-psych-concept" album), it's a rewarding experience, but it's definitely not for everyone and not suitable for dinner parties, unless everyone is on drugs.
4
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Thu Apr 27 2023
The La's
The La's
There's no doubt that, There She Goes, is a near perfect pop song that I admit, don't get tired of hearing. It's been used in countless ads and soundtracks for good reason, because it evokes a certain warm fuzzy feeling and nostalgia. As for the rest of the album, it's not the same thing over and over, it has variety and depth, but would it stand on it's own without, There She Goes?...yes. It's a shame The La's didn't get around to release another album, because their debut showed such promise, but at least they have one great song to leave in their memory, which is more than most bands can say.
4
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Fri Apr 28 2023
Bright Flight
Silver Jews
I was introduced to the Silver Jews through a friend and was curious mainly because of David Berman's association with Stephen Malkmus and they do sound a lot like Pavement. The band produced some pretty decent records and was surprised, Bright Flight made the list. I would have considered American Waters or Tanglewood Numbers before Flight, because I thought they were better records and there were no contributions from Malkmus on Bright Flight. The songs are okay, but at times Berman sounds like a drunken David Lowery from Camper Van Beethoven. Of course, the lyrics are great, but is it essential? No, but an important and interesting band.
4
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Mon May 01 2023
The Stone Roses
The Stone Roses
Better than average Brit-Pop, first time listener and I enjoyed what I heard. Of course, I've heard of The Stone Roses, but never got around to listening to them and I can understand why fans and critics like them. Poppy, infectious and even a dose of classic rock in their sound, which exceeded what I was expecting.
4
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Tue May 02 2023
Rage Against The Machine
Rage Against The Machine
Someone else's review said RATM sound like a cross between the Red Hot Chili Peppers and the Beastie Boys and that's the first thing that came to mind when I heard this album. The sound is harsher and more intense and I'm guessing more politically motivated. I also think they are bit overrated from what I read and heard and though the music is original and good, it's nothing that will make me go out and buy the record. The band has a large following, so obviously the band has enjoyed much success, so i might be in the minority. It's good, but not memorable or great.
3
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Wed May 03 2023
Sister
Sonic Youth
Sister is the album that turned the corner for Sonic Youth. It was their most cohesive effort so far in their career, as their earlier albums were filled with loud noise, experimental sounds and a lot of energy with very loose song structure. They turned some of that energy and noise into more of a recognizable song structure and released their most listenable record so far. I consider Sister as Sonic Youth's, "sweet spot" record where they continued to bash out art rock-noise without compromising their "no wave" attitude, while growing artistically and evolving their sound. The results are quite good and they expanded their sound by the next album, the classic, Daydream Nation. An important record!
4
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Thu May 04 2023
Smash
The Offspring
The Offspring is one of those bands I've managed to avoid listing to (on purpose), though it's hard to avoid, "Come Out And Play", which seems to appear everywhere. Actually, I don't mind that song, though too much of anything is tiring and separated. I've considered them one of those bands that help take punk rock (along with...Green Day) to the mainstream, well at least pop-punk and is the ideal band for newbies of the genre. Inoffensive, but edgy enough to spike your hair and get multiple tattoos on your face to make your parents nervous. The music is fine, but nothing that hasn't been done before and there are a lot more less popular bands that do it better and are less annoying.
3
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Fri May 05 2023
16 Lovers Lane
The Go-Betweens
A refreshing change from some of the other choices on the list. Low key Aussie-Rock that probably doesn't get the love it deserves here in America. I wouldn't consider this essential, but it should be heard and the quality is appreciated. A good listen!
3
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Mon May 08 2023
Chicago Transit Authority
Chicago
I've always thought Chicago's best albums were their early records in particular their first two. The band was jazz-fusion heavy with long jams along with some of their best known songs. The debut (when they were still called), Chicago Transit Authority is a daring double album with several overlong songs that sometimes tries our patience, but if you can make it through the whole album, it's quite good, at least the musicianship and performance. I own this on vinyl, but only until now have listened to it in it's entirety in one sitting. I'll admit, I'll cherry pick next listen and it could have benefited by a better editor or perhaps a single LP instead of a double.
4
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Tue May 09 2023
The Next Day
David Bowie
Hadn't heard this until now. Though the music on The Next Day doesn't break any new ground, it is an enjoyable record and a fine way to close a spectacular career. His music hasn't interested me for the past couple decades, but he rocks out on this one and reminds me of vintage Bowie. A commendable swan song.
4
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Wed May 10 2023
Qui sème le vent récolte le tempo
MC Solaar
I normally don't care for hip-hop or rap, but this album from MC Solaar was a joy to listen to. Maybe it was because it was sung in French and I couldn't understand what was being said (everything sounds better in french), but it also had cool beats and a nice jazzy feel to it. To me, the voice was another instrument and it smoothly contributed to the overall sound that was both easy to listen to and relaxing. It was definitely better than I expected!
4
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Thu May 11 2023
Murder Ballads
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
It is commendable that Nick Cave can write songs about such gruesome and unpleasant subject matter without sounding too grim. He does set the atmosphere and mood admirably with his "Tom Waits-like"growl with interesting storytelling. I'm not a big fan, but I'm intrigued and I'll categorize this under the, "listen again later" file.
3
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Fri May 12 2023
Feast of Wire
Calexico
If there was ever a band that sounded like where they were from, Calexico would be one of them. Combining a Tex-Mex/Americana sound, I would guess they hailed from the desert or more specifically Arizona. They may not be ground breaking, but they bring together different styles and sounds for a very satisfying mix and pleasant listening experience. This album is an excellent showcase and well worth the time. I saw the band opening for Arcade Fire years ago and they impressed me, but the boomy sound of the large venue definitely made it difficult to hear and didn't do the band justice. I would much prefer to see the band in an intimate-size bar room in the desert.
4
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Mon May 15 2023
There's A Riot Goin' On
Sly & The Family Stone
My younger self wouldn't have taken the time to listen to this album in it's entirety, but as I get older my musical tastes have expanded and I try to appreciate more musical styles. With that being said, on this record, Sly & The Family Stone have a lot of energy and the funky beats can't be ignored. It's an interesting listen and the songs seem to have a darker edge and not such a "happy go-lucky" sound. A solid album with a lot going on and I'm glad I took the time to listen to.
3
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Tue May 16 2023
Rid Of Me
PJ Harvey
A good loud, grungy, rocky and noisy album that gives PJ the cred she deserves. It's an "in your face" rock record that I prefer over some of her later projects. I guess her early work could be deemed essential or at least worth the listen.
4
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Wed May 17 2023
Music For The Jilted Generation
The Prodigy
A little too much repetitive, droning, boring sounds for me. It felt like a never ending soundtrack to a video game or a Matrix-like film, that is fine, but not my idea of a good time. Good background noise, if you're at a club or rave or some electronica festival with DJ's dressed as machines. If this is someone's idea of the future, I'm content with my old dad-rock.
2
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Thu May 18 2023
Devil Without A Cause
Kid Rock
Putting aside politics and my general distaste for the man, this album is a collection of some of the worst songs I've ever heard. Song after song of Rock spewing his idiocy and stupid revelations is grade school level name calling. His "gangster" persona putting his hoes, bitches and whores in their place is so laughable, this could work if it was intended to be parody, but I suspect Rock takes himself very seriously. When it came to the song with heavy auto-tune, I burst out laughing and the only thing more hilarious was whoever thought, Devil Without A Cause was essential! Avoid at all costs!!
1
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Fri May 19 2023
Fuzzy Logic
Super Furry Animals
An interesting mix of different styles and an eclectic collection of strong songs from the band's debut record. This approach can be risky and hit and miss, but fortunately there are more hits than misses. Their music offers a lot of things I like, with a retro 60's sound, modernized for the mid-90's, so I really enjoyed the whole record. I need to explore the rest of Super Furry Animals discography and see how the rest of their career played out. By the way, one of the best band names I've heard in a while!
4
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Mon May 22 2023
Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This)
Eurythmics
Apart from Sweet Dreams, the rest of the songs on the album are fairly disposable and apart from a couple others, filler. I admit, Sweet Dreams has a certain nostalgic quality to it, since I grew up during this era so I couldn't avoid it, but I never got into the Eurythmics and I'm not a fan of this genre at all. One star for the hit and one star for the rest of the record.
2
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Tue May 23 2023
Music for the Masses
Depeche Mode
Actually it was more listenable than I expected. I've heard some Depeche Mode before and they never connected with me probably because I'm not a fan of 80's synth-pop. A little more to it than the robotic electronic mush I was expecting with some decent instrumentation and dance-able beats, but it's true what the Dead Milkmen said, "you'll dance to anything"
3
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Wed May 24 2023
Ten
Pearl Jam
I never got into Pearl Jam as much as other Seattle bands from the grunge era and though most of them had their strengths and weaknesses, Pearl Jam emerged to the top, at least commercially and gained a large mainstream following. What's not to love, an impactful, power vocalist in Eddie Vedder and a talented band that were a great live band with many memorable songs. Their debut, Ten was undeniably an important record that had enough good songs to justify their popularity and though I've never owned or streamed this album (before now), I can't believe how many songs I've heard before. It's aged well and over 30 years later it's both a time piece to the era and a reminder that Seattle has produced some really good bands.
4
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Thu May 25 2023
Welcome to the Afterfuture
Mike Ladd
I had never heard of Mike Ladd, I'm not into hip-hop. I don't actively seek it out so I'm not surprised. Nothing extraordinary here, the beats are fine and most of it was listenable, it makes for decent background music and the best I can say is I didn't not like it. Not essential for me.
3
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Fri May 26 2023
John Barleycorn Must Die
Traffic
I've listened to Traffic in the past and for the most part enjoyed their music. First time listening to John Barleycorn Must Die and I must say I liked it and surprised by the amazing musicianship. There is lots to like with a very cool jazzy-rock fusion sound with nice piano and flute bits something I didn't appreciate in my younger days. I've always liked Steve Winwood voice who can make anything sound good and he's in good form on this album. This will lead me to listen to more Traffic records.
4
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Mon May 29 2023
Walking Wounded
Everything But The Girl
It's okay, I'm not a fan of much electronica dance music so I can't say I'd listen again, but the girl's vocals are refreshing and the beats are fine. I don't love it, but I don't hate it. 3/5
3
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Tue May 30 2023
Sweetheart Of The Rodeo
The Byrds
I bought a used copy of this record back in the early-80's and though I had been a fan of the Byrds earlier albums, I only listened to Sweetheart once before decided it wasn't for me. I was never a fan of Country music, so it sounded too country for my tastes, though it still had some elements of "rock" in it. Fast forward a decade later and a lot of the music I was listening to had plenty of Country-rock vibes to it which was updated and "re-branded" in the 80's and 90's, as Alt-Country. This genre produced some great bands, Uncle Tupelo, Long Ryders, Jayhawks etc and opened my ears to the possibilities of meshing rock and country together with an alternative edge. More recently, I have been spinning Sweetheart of the Rodeo often and it's influence and it's pioneering musical style is undeniable. Thank the Byrds for this bold statement in 1968.
4
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Wed May 31 2023
The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill
Lauryn Hill
I remember when this was released it was such a phenomena, it won several awards and received numerous accolades and something like 10 Grammy nominations in 1998 (best album of the 90's?), so I assumed it was pretty amazing. I finally listened to the whole album and personally I think it's overrated and a bit underwhelming. Sure, she has a great voice and some of the songs are fine, but I don't get the hype and found nothing spectacular or essential that made me love it. The weird skits/dialogue makes it seem more self-important than it is and I get it's a "concept" album, but sorry it lost me and was middle of the road, at best.
3
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Thu Jun 01 2023
1989
Taylor Swift
I hadn't knowingly listened to Taylor Swift's music until this album, 1989. I downloaded it along with Ryan Adam's interpretation of his track by track album covering 1989. It is clear I am not a Swifty and not her target audience, as she fills the void left from Britney, Christina and Selena for the financially precious white, middle class, preteen girl target group that seems to drive music business nowadays, but Taylor is above the others because she writes her own songs! Apparently, she has the cred as she entered the "prestigious" Songwriters Hall of Fame four years before this album, so she's clearly gifted and a true talent...for country music. On 1989, it's such a synth-pop mush, it hides any kind of "elite" songwriting and all I hear is a bunch of electronic, dance poppy robotic shit with so little substance it lowers it's standards to appeal to young girls and their gullible parents who are so proudly supportive of their daughter's musical tastes. Blonde, beautiful, rich..."she's such a great role model", let's throw more money her way when she's on tour.
P.S. by comparison, the Ryan Adams album is the stripped down version of 1989, at times sounding like, Springsteen covering Taylor Swift. An alt-country, indie rock record that bares no similarities to the Swift record at all, which is a good thing as you would never know these songs are covers. Hey wait, it's not a bad album after all.
2
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Fri Jun 02 2023
Cupid & Psyche 85
Scritti Politti
Another synth-pop band from the 80's I avoided. Until now, never listened to more than a couple songs and it's so bland I don't need to hear anymore. Kind of a British poor-man's version of Michael Jackson, though Scritti Politti seems to lack Mikey's passion and emotion and it's not my kind of music.
2
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Mon Jun 05 2023
Nilsson Schmilsson
Harry Nilsson
I hadn't thought about Harry Nilsson's music in years, but thanks to the Russian Doll TV show, his song, Gotta Get Up was upfront and center throughout the first season. I had thought of Nilsson more as a drinking buddy of John Lennon, and though I was aware of a lot of his songs, hadn't taken the time to listen to a complete album. I sometimes confuse Nilsson's music with Badfinger, and for good reason, they both definitely had a Beatlesque sound and the classic, Without You is written by Pete Ham and Tom Evans from Badfinger. Nilsson Schmilsson is the essential Harry Nilsson album and is the high point of his career. I enjoyed it and often wonder why I haven't listened to more of his music. Pretty good for a guy in a bathrobe on the cover.
4
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Tue Jun 06 2023
Oar
Alexander 'Skip' Spence
After reading the intriguing backstory about the making of this album and the life of Skip Spence, I was curious to listen to this record. It starts out promising with a hint of Leonard Cohen and Lou Reed in his voice and the songs are strong and credible. Eventually, the songs slowly deteriorate and they come across as demos, fragments and unfinished, not fully realized pieces. Towards the end, the songs sound like, "running the tapes at all times to record everything that Spence did". Does troubled minds + mental illness = creative genius? Sometimes, producer David Rubinson saw something in Spence that was promising and the fact an album was released from these recording sessions is fascinating. Interesting, but not essential...though I would love to come across an original vinyl pressing of the album!
3
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Wed Jun 07 2023
Songs The Lord Taught Us
The Cramps
If there was ever a band's image that matches the sound of the group, it would be The Cramps. With the band name written in a "Tales From The Crypt"-like typeset, The Cramps primitive, lo-fi sound wouldn't be out of place as a band on the Flintstones, as they keep the beats simple and ghoulish. They are an acquired taste and not for everyone, but their sound is accessible and not unlike similar sounding goth bands that followed. I bought this on vinyl when I was a teen and glad I did, it still gets some plays even now and is a classic in it's own right.
4
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Thu Jun 08 2023
Tidal
Fiona Apple
Talented singer-songwriter, Fiona Apple is impressive considering she was only 19 when her debut album was released. A collection of solid songs that were mature beyond her years, as many were written years earlier and it stands as one of her best albums. I didn't listen to Apple during the 90's, so I'm still "new" to her music and though I don't love it, I can see her appeal and talent and for the most part the record is enjoyable. She has one of those voices you either love or hate, but for me her voice suits the style of music and message she's trying to project.
3
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Fri Jun 09 2023
Will The Circle Be Unbroken
Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
If I was a fan of Bluegrass Country music, this would surely be a classic, must-hear album with it's amazing musicianship by some of the legends in the genre and a wonderful collection of songs. I can't say I didn't enjoy it and especially liked the banter and dialogue between the musicians and easy-going casual recording atmosphere. It is long, so it's a lot to take in, but if you're new to Bluegrass, I could recommend hearing this at least once. As I said, I'm not a fan of Bluegrass, but I can appreciate the quality of the music and though it hasn't converted me, I do give it respect and once in a while it's okay to explore other music I don't normally give a care about.
3
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Mon Jun 12 2023
Architecture And Morality
Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark
For 80's Synth-Pop it was okay. I normally don't like anything from this genre and era, but some of it was catchy and easy to listen to, at least as background music. Nothing special, so I can't see myself buying it, but the occasional listen is fine.
3
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Tue Jun 13 2023
Wonderful Rainbow
Lightning Bolt
The title of this album is Wonderful Rainbow and if you had any preconceived ideas what a rainbow would sound like, throw those theories out the door. This is noise rock, and if you were expecting sweet sounding melodies and beautiful waterfall sounds, turn away because this isn't music for you! My tolerance level is pretty high, so even I can only take this album in bunches, as it gets tedious quickly. Imagine the sound of trying to start your car in the winter with a shitty battery and trying over and over to get it to turn over or the glorious sounds of multiple lawnmowers in your neighborhood driving over branches, metal bits and kids toys, this wouldn't be unlike what's on Wonderful Rainbow. To be honest, it is what it is, artful noise rock playing with wonderful abandon, not worried what the neighbors think and taking it to the max, both in volume and in excess. Either you love it or hate it. Me, I would move out of the neighborhood fast!
3
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Wed Jun 14 2023
Highway 61 Revisited
Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan has to be considered one of the greatest singer/songwriters of our time. He has endured a long career since the early 60's and continues to produce and release new recordings. Of course, with a ton of albums and songs he's recorded, his output has been uneven with lots of crap and boring music, but also some timeless classics and a handful of releases that I would consider essential. There is so much to say about Dylan, so let's focus on Highway 61 Revisited from 1965. I would rank this in his top 2 best records, it's super influential and it really elevated his career at the time. The opening track, Like A Rolling Stone is undeniably a great song, so that alone is worth the price of admission and the rest of record isn't filler. Truly a classic and yes, essential!
5
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Thu Jun 15 2023
Cut
The Slits
The Slits were no doubt an important band, not only because they were one of the few (maybe first) all-female English punk bands were perhaps years ahead of their time. The music on Cut is more of a Reggae/Dub, art-rock, post-punk sound than punk and on several tracks the vocals remind me of Bjork. I have to admit, at first listen (years ago) I was a bit disappointed I thought they would be more edgier and fast, but there are some standout moments and the more I listen to the album the more it grows on me. The version I listened to this time was the deluxe version from 2009, that included Peel sessions from 1977, along with rough mixes, demos and outtakes from Cut. On these tracks, the band does sound more punk, less polished and much more urgent and interesting, which I prefer over the final/cleaner mix on the actual album.
4
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Fri Jun 16 2023
The Rolling Stones
The Rolling Stones
The debut album from the "Greatest Rock 'n' roll band" is a solid introduction to the band and though it's comprised many of covers, it showcases the raw, enthusiastic sound of a promising bunch of scruffy lads that would make a huge impact on the music history. The performance of these covers is adequate, but the look and sound of the band was unique, and the Stones don't really take off artistically until they find their own style and start writing and performing their own songs. This is a good sampling of their potential and an important album historically and it's an essential listen to hear the band at the beginning before you tackle the rest of their long (and sometimes uneven) discography.
4
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Mon Jun 19 2023
Palo Congo
Sabu
A refreshing listen, something you don't hear much nowadays. Some cool rhythms, but after a while the drumming gets a bit much and it would be much more interesting to see and hear this music live.
3
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Tue Jun 20 2023
Real Life
Magazine
I had to remind myself that Howard Devoto was a founding member of the Buzzcocks and only recorded an EP with the band before forming Magazine. You can't deny they sound a bit like the Buzzcocks, but more new wave sounding rather than punk. The keyboards and more pop oriented sound help distinguished themselves from the Buzzcocks and they released an impressive debut. When I heard them years ago, it didn't do much for me, but listening now, I like it a lot more than previously.
3
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Wed Jun 21 2023
Larks' Tongues In Aspic
King Crimson
Honestly, the only King Crimson I've listened to is, In The Court Of The Crimson King and not many prog rock albums could top that masterpiece. Larks' Tongues is a fine album, pretty standard prog with some highlights and the musicianship is top notch. For me, it's a bit too proggy and avant-garde to hold my interest for long, but overall an intriguing and sometimes challenging listen.
3
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Thu Jun 22 2023
Ritual De Lo Habitual
Jane's Addiction
When I first heard this album when it came out I thought it was fantastic. The groove of their metal/hard rock sound reminded me of the Chili Peppers and most of the songs were upbeat with a lot of energy and excitement. I'm not really a fan of Perry Farrell and his Porno For Pyros and solo projects and I can't say I would have listened to this again if it wasn't for this challenge, but the band had a pretty good run as their first two albums were solid and very listenable. Listening to Ritual De Lo Habitual now, wasn't as thrilling as the first time, but is something I might listen to again, for old times sake.
3
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Fri Jun 23 2023
Haut de gamme / Koweït, rive gauche
Koffi Olomide
It sounded fine, but it really didn't hold my interest towards the end. I can't honest say I've listened to any music from the Congo and it definitely had an appealing vibe with catchy rhythms and beats, so I'm open to hearing more.
3
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Mon Jun 26 2023
Is This It
The Strokes
I first read about the Strokes and I think I saw them on SNL before hearing the album, I wanted to not like it. They seemed to be a group of rich, spoiled, privileged-looking white boys who somehow weaseled a record contract and I doubted they would produce authentic rock 'n' roll, especially with a lead singer with a name like, Julian Casablancas. Their debut album, Is This It...is it! A surprisingly excellent record that blows most of my theory away. A great collection of songs that are catchy and ear-pleasing without the pretentiousness and manufactured sound I was half expecting. There was lots of really good music released in the early 2000's and this one stands out as one of the best and listening again over twenty years later, it's as good as I remember. Ha, so much for first impressions.
4
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Tue Jun 27 2023
Yeezus
Kanye West
I really wanted to hate this album. Kanye is a horrible person, but I try to listen to the music objectively without clouding my judgement with THE person and their issues. With that being said, Yeezus is a piece of shit, the kind of crap artist's release because they can and gullible people will still buy and praise. This has all the reasons why I can't stand narcissist, Nazi-praising, ego driven lunatics like West. His constant talk of pussy, titties and what's he's going to do with woman and his moronic god complex is summed up in his song, "I Am A God", of course. Not to mention the annoying auto-tune, the ridiculous rap shit he spews, with lyrics which could have been written by a delusional teenage boy. I can't believe I "listened" to the whole thing!
1
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Wed Jun 28 2023
Deserter's Songs
Mercury Rev
I listened to this back in the day, the band was surprisingly good and this album is a solid and at times, beautiful listen. A lot of comments compare them to the Flaming Lips and I do remember listening to similar like-minded alternative bands around this time and probably discovered Mercury Rev through listening to the Lips. Nothing essential here and they're music never really grabbed or stuck with me, in fact this is the first time listening to the album since the early 2000's.
3
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Thu Jun 29 2023
Screamadelica
Primal Scream
Without the aid of pills or a dance club, Screamadelica was a energized and upbeat dance party that was better than expected. It started strong, with a surprisingly diverse collection of songs that kept me interested, but then it felt overly long with extended tracks that went on and on. It's hard to keep the energy up, but overall it was fun, without having to leave the comfort of my home.
3
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Fri Jun 30 2023
Copper Blue
Sugar
The best, or at least my favourite post-Husker Du album from Bob Mould's power trio, Sugar. Mould's first couple solo records after Husker Du broke up were subdued and softer, but Mould turns up the volume again with his new band and Copper Blue is a return to melodic, catchy power-pop rock that was evident on the last Du record, Warehouse. Grant Hart and Mould released some decent albums in the 90's, but Copper Blue stands out and is there a better side one, especially the first four songs that open the album, in the 90's? Solid album and I still play it often!
5
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Mon Jul 03 2023
Planet Rock: The Album
Afrika Bambaataa
In some ways, I appreciate this "old-school" rap because this is the style of rap I remember growing up, but I'm still not of fan of the genre. It's interesting with nice beats and there isn't a reliance yet on too many gimmicks and effects. I enjoyed most of it, so I give it a pass.
3
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Tue Jul 04 2023
Blood, Sweat & Tears
Blood, Sweat & Tears
I had never listened the an entire B,S & T album and I'm assuming this is their best. It contains some of their classic, well-known tunes I've previously heard on the radio and many songs I hadn't. Overall, the hits really are the best tracks and the rest of the record didn't keep my interest. A range in styles and genres that were fine, but really, a lot of it felt like filler.
3
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Wed Jul 05 2023
Let It Bleed
The Rolling Stones
Released during a run of Classic albums (Beggars to Exile), Let It Bleed has a couple of undeniably essential tracks. You Can't Always Get What You Want, continues to be a live favorite, utilizing local choirs during their shows and the curious intrigue of songs like, Midnight Rambler and Gimme Shelter brought the Stones some darker notoriety during this time. The Stones show their range of styles on many tracks, country-blues, country-folk, gospel, Chicago blues and rock, that keep the music interesting. A great album, but there's a few tracks that fall short that prevent it from being one of their best.
4
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Thu Jul 06 2023
Tragic Songs of Life
The Louvin Brothers
I have to admit, I enjoy the Louvin Brothers album cover art more than their music. This one and Satan Is Real have a goofy, bizarre horror film poster quality to them, which clearly gets points from me for originality. The music is country, sort of a parallel-universe Everly Brothers with tight harmonies, good instrumentation and a fiery relationship. It's almost too country to me and their baptist faith surely influences their music. It was an okay listen, though I can't say I enjoy that much mandolin and I was looking forward to it to end, which isn't a good thing.
3
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Fri Jul 07 2023
Let's Get It On
Marvin Gaye
Hadn't listened to much from Marvin Gaye, but recognized several songs on, Let's Get It On. The title track is the "go-to" song for TV and movies whenever love & romance is in the air and the rest of the album follows this theme. A solid album with Gaye's smooth sexy voice creates an the amazing atmosphere of smooth soul and funky funk. It's the perfect mood maker and THE album to put on your turntable before saying, "let's get it on!"
4
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Mon Jul 10 2023
Ace of Spades
Motörhead
You can't deny the title track, Ace of Spades is a great song. After over 40 years since it was released, the song is experiencing a weird revival of sorts appearing in numerous movies and TV shows when it calls for an intense, frantic, drugged up scene and it really is effective for the ambiance and mood of the scene. Apparently, Motorhead loved that song so much, they built an album around Ace of Spades and recorded that song over and over to fill the rest of the record. Or, so it seems, the sameness of the formula is play fast, have Lemmy shout gibberish loud and sloppily and repeat...! They make AC/DC sound like they have range and diversity...yikes! Is Motorhead, hard rock or punk or metal or hardcore or speed metal or punk speed metal? Judging by the leathers and long hair, I lean towards metal, but who cares, the song, Ace of Spades is fab! The song itself deserves 2 stars, but the rest of the album sadly only 1.
3
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Tue Jul 11 2023
Devotional Songs
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan
I'm not an expert in this genre of music, but over the years I've been exposed to similar sounds and though it has meaning and purpose, I can't say I'm interested in hearing more. I have no idea what's going on and it seemed to go on far too long which really tests my patience and tolerance. Musically, it's skilled, world beat, folk, very ethnic with vocals that are used as another instrumental sound, so it's okay background music.
3
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Wed Jul 12 2023
Queens of the Stone Age
Queens of the Stone Age
The 90's produced a lot of good, heavy hard rock, grungy bands that may have been overlooked, because they had a similar generic sound and look and got lost in the crowded alternative scene. Queens of the Stone Age is one of those bands that I overlooked and didn't really listen to that much. The sound is heavy and their debut album starts off strong with a stretch of solid rockin' songs. I like their sound and the songs were good, but there are so many other bands from this era that I liked better. To me, their music isn't very memorable and I honestly can't remember what I listened to yesterday. Good, but not great.
3
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Thu Jul 13 2023
This Year's Model
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
Elvis Costello's debut album, My Aim Is True was a landmark album created at the beginning of the punk explosion in England and launched Costello's career to what it is today. The follow-up, This Year's Model, had a similar sound and though it wasn't necessarily punk, the attitude was still there. The contributions from his band, The Attractions (which shouldn't be understated) who brought the energy up with a more new wave sound with a whole record of hyped up, catchy and smart intelligent songs that made This Year's Model an improvement (yes, it's possible) from the strong debut. Even today, when I think of my favourite Costello album, with songs like, Pump It Up, Radio Radio and No Action, it still holds up today as the quintessential Elvis album.
5
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Fri Jul 14 2023
The Bones Of What You Believe
CHVRCHES
First time hearing Chvrches so I wasn't sure what to expect and it turned out better than I expected. Played nicely in the background, nothing really stands out for me, but at the same time there was nothing I didn't dislike. Not a fan of synth-pop, so I probably won't listen to more, but I could do a whole lot worse.
3
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Mon Jul 17 2023
Yank Crime
Drive Like Jehu
A good solid record with enough melody and good songs to complement the driving hardcore sound from Drive Like Jehu. Not for all tastes, but I would have been all over this during the 90's when this was released and even now it's still very listenable. A bit long, but then again they only released two albums, so we should happy with what they put out.
3
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Tue Jul 18 2023
Bandwagonesque
Teenage Fanclub
The Concept was my introduction to Teenage Fanclub and after loving the song I've been a big fan ever since. Some of the best Big Star-inspired music I've heard in a while on their third album, they turn in a near-perfect mix of alt-rock, power-pop with crunching guitars, catchy melodies and memorable songs. I would rank 1995's, Grand Prix as their best (and personal favourite) album, but the signature sound of the band was really taking shape starting with Bandwagonesque and you can't deny it's impact on early 90's indie rock.
5
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Wed Jul 19 2023
Fishscale
Ghostface Killah
Not really my taste in music, but it has some okay songs and it was enjoyable at times. Not a fan of the "skits", annoying more than anything and it was way too long. I was getting tired of listening to this and checked to see if it was near the end, ugh, it wasn't even halfway through. I did stick it out until the end, barely!
3
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Thu Jul 20 2023
Get Behind Me Satan
The White Stripes
I have to admit, I enjoyed the White Stripes previous albums to Get Behind Me Satan. I know some duo artists are suppose to expand their sparse sound by introducing additional instruments, but I prefer the guitar-heavy sound from the pair. No wonder White preferred in a larger band format after the Stripes, so you can't deny a guy for expanding his musical horizons.
3
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Fri Jul 21 2023
Kimono My House
Sparks
I don't what I was expecting, but it was a lot better than I was anticipating. Very theatrical sounding with lots going on with interesting unique songs. Promising enough for a repeat listen and maybe explore more from Sparks.
3
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Mon Jul 24 2023
Millions Now Living Will Never Die
Tortoise
Once I got over my initial realization that the songs were mostly ambient instrumentals I listened to the music differently. The songs were more like a soundtrack without a movie with interesting atmospheric, experimental sounds and rhythms. Originally, I was ready to write it off as something I normally don't care for, but instead it was an enjoyable listen and worth exploring more of Tortoise.
4
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Tue Jul 25 2023
Blood On The Tracks
Bob Dylan
At first glance it seems like I love Bob Dylan since I've already given out three 5 star albums for Bob so far. With such a massive catalogue of albums he has a lot more misses than hits, so sifting through his work can either be rewarding or you could be left wondering if he's the most overrated artist of all time. Those five stars were for essential recordings from the 60's and though he released at least 10 albums in the 70's only a couple are essential Dylan. Blood On The Tracks released in 1975 might just be his last "great" record with only Desire, (released the following year) close in quality. Not only is Blood On the Tracks a beautiful, personal and well produced record, it's one of his most consistent with several memorable songs. Yup, another classic, but sadly his last.
5
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Wed Jul 26 2023
Amnesiac
Radiohead
So much going on on this album, lots of mood shifts, interesting instrumentation and arrangements. They really expand their range and for the most part it's satisfying, but I know they have even better albums I should listen to again. I do like it a lot!
4
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Thu Jul 27 2023
Red Headed Stranger
Willie Nelson
Not a country music fan, but generally I don't mind some of Willie's work. My knowledge of country is limited, but I do know I can't stand newer country artists, so "old school" artists like Willie and Dolly I will always have respect for. Nothing really stands out for me on Red Headed Stranger, but overall it was a fine listen and there wasn't anything I didn't not like.
3
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Fri Jul 28 2023
Reign In Blood
Slayer
Not a fan of metal and knew I wouldn't like this, but Slayer isn't your typical heavy metal hair band and it's music isn't too heavy or depressing. They play at breakneck, superfast speed, definitely a thrash metal sound that leans more towards fast punk than metal, at times, which I can appreciate. Not horrible and I found it mildly amusing and listenable, in small doses.
3
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Mon Jul 31 2023
Ys
Joanna Newsom
Not sure how this is classified? Chamber pop, classical, Baroque, music from a different era? Regardless, she clearly is talented and this music obviously must have an audience, but it isn't music that appeals to me in the slightest. Interesting, but not enough to explore anymore.
2
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Tue Aug 01 2023
Talking With the Taxman About Poetry
Billy Bragg
I'm a fan of Billy Bragg since his first LP/EP and though I love his first two releases, his third, Talking With the Taxman About Poetry was a step forward. His sound benefits from minimum contributions other than just himself and still conveys a powerful message and musical power that makes Bragg who he is. Personally, I think it's his strongest album and it's his attempt at a slightly more commercial sound, yet the sound here is still raw and it's catchy and enjoyable before he becomes almost too political and complicated.
4
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Wed Aug 02 2023
Joan Armatrading
Joan Armatrading
She has a strong voice and the musicianship is top notch, but I can't help thinking this is kind of bland. The songs are fine, but nothing stands out to make me want to hear more. As a singer-songwriter, Armatrading was an important artist in the 70's, I just don't feel the love.
3
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Thu Aug 03 2023
The Only Ones
The Only Ones
Another Girl, Another Planet is a great, timeless power-pop masterpiece! I wouldn't have heard of The Only Ones if it wasn't for a superb live cover of the song by the Replacements. The Mats do the song justice, but do the Only Ones have any other decent songs? The rest of the album is okay, at times they sound a bit like the Buzzcocks, punky, power-poppy, while at times it's a little dull and uninspired. Not to say it isn't a good album, it's that maybe it's top heavy and it's hard to top a song like, Another Girl...
3
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Fri Aug 04 2023
Post Orgasmic Chill
Skunk Anansie
Unaware of this record or group, so I didn't know what to expect. The music blazes off to a solid start, raw, energetic and a powerful singer. The songs were good, but didn't resonate with me enough, though it was an eclectic mix. It feels a little dated and I can't say I would listen multiple more times.
3
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Mon Aug 07 2023
Hot Fuss
The Killers
When this album first came out, I wasn't interested in The Killers. To be fair I hadn't listened to more than a track or two, but listening 20 years later to the whole record, it was quite enjoyable. It's catchy and the songs were easy to listen to, which leads me to want to hear more. A solid, rambunctious romp of Hot Fuss should be enjoyed by all!
4
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Tue Aug 08 2023
Nevermind
Nirvana
I'm presently reading, Chuck Klosterman's, The Nineties book and there is a chapter about Kurt Cobain, Nirvana and Nevermind...coincidence this album would show up now? Rolling Stone notoriously rated Nevermind 3 1/2 stars, but who knew this record would become such a cultural phenomenon and be rated one of the great albums of the 90's. I will admit, I bought the cassette version right after it came out and at first listen thought it was catchy and highly accessible and thought it could have commercial potential. I had been listening to alternative, punk music at the time and at the time never expected this music to be played on the radio. Listening now, the music still sticks and almost every track is recognizable and good, so it's hard to be too critical. You can't call it selling out because the music isn't compromised and still has a punk edge on most tracks. A definitive album of the 90's, but all-time greatest, not so sure.
5
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Wed Aug 09 2023
So
Peter Gabriel
This probably the only Peter Gabriel album that appeals to me with many of his best known tracks, Sledgehammer, Red Rain and In Your Eyes. The rest of the record unfortunately sounds dated and at times dull, so clearly I'm not a PG aficionado. In general, his music doesn't excite me, but I can hear it in small doses.
3
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Thu Aug 10 2023
Punishing Kiss
Ute Lemper
This sounds like a musical from another era and the fact a lot of the songs are covers it's hard to tell. It has an interesting sound that oddly appealing at times. Not my music of choice, but it is okay to listen outside of your comfort zone sometimes, right?
3
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Fri Aug 11 2023
Dear Science
TV On The Radio
A real grab bag of styles explored here which makes it both a challenging and intriguing listen and at times I had to check to see if I was still listening to the same record. It has it moments and overall I like it, so I would recommend it, but essential? I don't think so.
3
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Mon Aug 14 2023
White Blood Cells
The White Stripes
Back to basics rock and roll! Jack and Meg provide a fuller sound than you would think as a duo and the sound is mature and well performed. The best songs are the ones were the energy is up and they let loose and this might be their most enjoyable effort.
4
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Tue Aug 15 2023
Dust
Screaming Trees
For the most part the album is enjoyable, the songs are catchy and it's competently performed. Somewhat surprisingly, this is the Screaming Tree's 7th studio album (in 10 years) released in 1996, so the band was around pre-Grunge era. I like it, though there isn't anything innovative or edgy about the record and it's sound is so dated, late 80's/90's it doesn't stand out. Not essential, there are a lot more records you should listen to from this time period.
3
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Wed Aug 16 2023
Foxbase Alpha
Saint Etienne
I'm not a fan of club culture and house music, but the 60's pop influences they inflect in their music was refreshing. A pleasant soundtrack to my afternoon, though I doubt I'll listen to this often. Interesting , but not essential for me. Bonus points, the cover art is cute and fun!
3
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Thu Aug 17 2023
Venus Luxure No. 1 Baby
Girls Against Boys
They have a heavy sound that leads nowhere, in my opinion. Nothing terribly exciting or above average with their sound and really a second tier hard rock/metal/grindcore/hardcore band. Okay, but far from essential.
2
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Fri Aug 18 2023
Sulk
The Associates
Sounds like a synth-Bowie early 80's when this album was released. You can also hear their influence on Bono and it's lasting impression with his music with U2. It was an okay listen, but doesn't interest me beyond a listen. It's funny how I had never heard this before.
3
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Mon Aug 21 2023
Ogden's Nut Gone Flake
Small Faces
A classic record from the Small Faces and I'm glad I own a vinyl copy. Apart from the narrator cutting in and out of the music, the music is excellent and though there are only a couple minor hits on it, it's consistently solid with strong songs. I must hear or at least, must see, as the album jacket is very cool!
5
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Tue Aug 22 2023
Smokers Delight
Nightmares On Wax
Relaxing ambient background music that was enjoyable, but not an essential listen. Not the type of music I would sit down and listen to intently, as it's repetition got a bit tiresome after a while. I must have been listening to the deluxe digital version, because it seemed too long.
3
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Wed Aug 23 2023
Suicide
Suicide
Weird, dark moody record with annoying synths that actually give it the atmosphere you would expect with a band/album title, Suicide. Girl and Frankie Teardrop are both disturbing and embarrassing with a lot of screaming, creepy vibes and hilarity. A challenging, difficult listen, but worth the time if only to hear what they sounded like. Music to torture and punish your friends and family with! Yikes!
2
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Thu Aug 24 2023
Raw Power
The Stooges
Iggy Pop fronted this great band, The Stooges and with the band produced his most interesting and "must-hear" work. Pop's music career has been all over the music map, dabbling in pop and other genre's and though he produced some good music, he was no Bowie. His best work was when he rocked hard with the Stooges and you can't deny their influence and importance in early 70's rock. All three (official) albums are essential listening and Raw Power is as good or better than the first two.
4
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Fri Aug 25 2023
American Pie
Don McLean
When you think of a song that is the best example of a "career defining song (or album)" by a musician, I immediately think of Don McLean's, American Pie. That song, American Pie is one of those epic songs that people either love or hate. I guess you would be considered "un-American" if you hated it, but it's more because of it's mass over-exposure and being told it's the greatest American song ever. In some ways, I feel sorry for McLean. Sure, the song made him rich (he still makes between $300,000-$500,000 per year in royalties!) and famous with many accolades to his name thanks to American Pie, but it's one of those songs that a musician is condemned to perform at every single show (think Del Shannon)! I'm sure he's contractually obligated to play it and could you imagine the outrage if his concert didn't include this 8 1/2 minute song? The record label and McLean were smart enough to title the album after the song to avoid confusion at the record store so they don't accidentally buy one of his many other albums by mistake. Anyways, you can't deny it, it's a good song, the rest of the album is average (3 stars) and the song probably deserves another star.
4
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Mon Aug 28 2023
No Sleep 'Til Hammersmith (Live)
Motörhead
The opening song for the live concert was Ace Of Spades, which is great, but do we really need to hear the rest of the show?...no.
2
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Tue Aug 29 2023
Licensed To Ill
Beastie Boys
Not generally a big fan of the Beastie's, but for my tastes I prefer this debut album which still has a punk energy that straddles the line of rock and rap. The songs are cringy at times, but what rap albums aren't? At the time, it was unique and somewhat barrier breaking. It's entertaining, creative and the beats are mighty fine and you can't deny, Fight For Your Right is a great song to introduce the band to the mainstream. Still my favourite Beastie's moment!
4
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Wed Aug 30 2023
Let's Get Killed
David Holmes
I noticed that David Holmes has scored several TV series, as well as film soundtracks, which makes sense since, Let's Get Killed has a soundtrack sound to it. Nothing to get excited about, (you can guess he was a DJ) but the music is enjoyable and makes for fine background music. Kind of living my own soundtrack to the afternoon. Nice listen, but far from essential.
3
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Thu Aug 31 2023
Ready To Die
The Notorious B.I.G.
If you overlook the "dated" strong language, extreme misogyny, violence, sexist rants, idiotic skits and Biggie's weiner size, it's a typical gangsta rap record that lives up to his notorious reputation. It's a curious okay listen, but after a while it just gets tiresome to hear the repetition of motherf*cker, b*tch, n*ggar...it loses it's effect and gets annoying after a while. Also, it goes on way too long, now I'm ready to die!
3
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Fri Sep 01 2023
Idlewild
Everything But The Girl
Didn't expect I'll like this, but I found it an easy listen, it's poppy and fresh sounding. The music is a bit dated (so 80's!) and generally I'm not a fan of drum machines and synth, so it's probably not something I'll listen to often, but it was pleasant and an enjoyable background music.
3
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Mon Sep 04 2023
(What's The Story) Morning Glory
Oasis
Honestly, I've never been a fan or follower of Oasis, always thought they were overrated and over-hyped. That being said, the music speaks for itself and this might be as good as it gets, as far as Brit-Pop in the 90's. It's hard to deny it's influence and impact on pop-rock and the hits definitely lifted the band to the mass mainstream. You can love or hate the band, but at least on (What's The Story) Morning Glory, the music is pretty darn listenable.
4
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Tue Sep 05 2023
Frampton Comes Alive
Peter Frampton
Rock music works in mysterious ways sometimes. For whatever reason, Frampton Comes Alive is the biggest selling live album of all time. Peter Frampton had previously released a handful of decent, but unspectacular records in the early 70's, so it's success seemed to come out of nowhere. Almost everyone I knew owned this double LP when it was popular and I only recently acquired my own copy from a collection I absorbed. Admittedly, most of the live tracks bested their previously released studio versions (much like Cheap Trick's, Live Budokan), but some of it, besides the hits are dull and feel like filler, like most concerts can be. A solid sounding live album that sprawled out into a double album is questionable (it retailed only $1 more than a single LP), as it could have been even greater as one record. Oh well, it fared pretty well as it was, so who the hell am I to question this.
3
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Wed Sep 06 2023
Songs Of Leonard Cohen
Leonard Cohen
I've said it before, I'm not a big fan of Leonard Cohen, I appreciate his early work for what it was, but I found his talking poetry set to music tedious at times. The sparseness and lyrical genius of, Songs Of Leonard Cohen gave Cohen the showcase to show poetry set to music can be great and it's influence and classic songs makes this essential. A Canadian treasure!
4
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Thu Sep 07 2023
KE*A*H** (Psalm 69)
Ministry
A harsh and difficult listen at times, but what sets Ministry apart than say... Motorhead (or like-minded bands) is that the songs don't sound exactly the same. On the surface, it sounds like a lot of yelling and roaring, but there is some substance and intelligence behind the songs and I like the music. I listened to it all, didn't love it, but it could been a whole lot worse.
3
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Fri Sep 08 2023
Pelican West
Haircut 100
When this album came out, I remember disliking it. This album and anything else that resembled dance-able, new wave, synthy-white boy-Brit-pop. It reminds me of a lightweight Duran Duran or Tears For Fears, all bands I avoided with a passion. The music has it's place and it's enjoyable enough on the surface, but deep down (to me) it doesn't have soul or depth to deem it essential, by any means. I don't hate it, I just don't understand why this band or album has any relevance.
2
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Mon Sep 11 2023
Leftism
Leftfield
Nice sounding record and pleasing background music. I don't listen to much British electronic music and I can't stand most club music. This one is listenable, so this one gets a pass. Essential? Definitely not from me.
3
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Tue Sep 12 2023
Forever Changes
Love
This is one of those albums I've always meant to have a listen to, but never got around to it. I know this is considered a classic record from Love and it doesn't disappoint. More of a folk based sound, rather than psychedelic, it's lush sounding and every song is well crafted and performed. A solid listen and worth the wait.
4
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Wed Sep 13 2023
Peter Gabriel
Peter Gabriel
A good debut, some solid songs especially, Solsbury Hill, but other than that there isn't much to love. I don't mind Genesis, I despise Phil Collins and I can tolerate Peter Gabriel in small doses, if that tells you anything...
3
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Thu Sep 14 2023
Shalimar
Rahul Dev Burman
Despite my music streaming service having dozens of Burman's soundtrack albums, I could only find a couple tracks from Shalimar. What I did hear was impressive and a refreshing interesting listen. Kind of James Bond-ish with an Indian slant, it had me wanting to hear more! Who would have thought Bollywood films had such cool soundtracks? Thanks for the suggestion!
3
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Fri Sep 15 2023
En-Tact
The Shamen
This kind of went on and on and on...a bit too repetitious to be interesting and it felt like a never-ending rave gone bad. Started off okay, it kept my interest, but I really wanted to turn it off about halfway through. Too electronic, drum machine-y and house-y for my liking.
2
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Mon Sep 18 2023
Destroyer
KISS
Embarrassing listening to this album now, very dated and the songs really do suck. Apart from Detroit Rock City, which still isn't a great song, the rest of the album is pandering, boring and they sound like a parody of a "metal" rock band. The album cover is the highlight and I prefer the clown-face band in their comic book personas in the Marvel Comics Super Special from 1977 that used the band members blood. Too bad they didn't put their blood and soul into any of their music.
2
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Tue Sep 19 2023
Superunknown
Soundgarden
There was a lot of great music released during the Grunge era during the 90's, with some incredible bands that have withstood time, but at the same time there were countless forgettable bands that released an album or two then disappeared. Soundgarden was one of those bands that rose during Grunge and have left a legacy of music that is both memorable and still relevant. The band was active in the 80's and 90's, broke up then reformed in 2010 until singer Chris Connell's death in 2017. The band's earlier albums are all good, but their most notable achievement was Superunknown. It contains some of their best songs and is solid throughout. I can't say I'm a big fan of the band, but I'll still play this album occasionally since I bought the cassette for my son when he was in elementary school, because he loved Black Hole Sun.
4
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Wed Sep 20 2023
Nixon
Lambchop
Interesting listen. The retro sound is very reminiscent of 60's easy-listening orchestrated pop or something Burt Bacharach might have had a part writing. Lush sounding, nods for style and the feeling of being transported to another time. I quite like it, but may wear thin after while. Worth the listen.
3
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Thu Sep 21 2023
Country Life
Roxy Music
Roxy Music's early albums were unique and all worth a listen, but Country Life might just be their best album. The opening track, The Thrill Of It All, should be a part of everyone's soundtrack to their life, is probably my favourite song from the band and the rest of the album is solid throughout. I've always been a bit iffy about Brian Ferry as a vocalist, but here he proves to more than up for the challenge. As far as the album cover, track down the original pressing, no one wants to look at a photo of just a pine tree.
4
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Fri Sep 22 2023
Ctrl
SZA
Not my preference for music, so I expected to not like it. Not a bad listen, it has it's good points and the beats are okay, but not something I would purposely listen to again. I give it a pass, barely. 6/10
3
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Mon Sep 25 2023
Henry's Dream
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
Nick is always an interesting and sometimes fascinating listen. His storytelling is dark and the songs fit the mood and persona of his vampire looks. Don't know if so many of his albums deserve to be on the list, but you can do a whole lot worse.
3
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Tue Sep 26 2023
Layla And Other Assorted Love Songs
Derek & The Dominos
Clapton's solo career was so overrated, the music was boring and he definitely didn't showcase that he was supposedly the "greatest" guitar player ever. His best music was with other equally or more talented musicians in bands such as Blind Faith, the Bluesbreakers and the one-off album by Derek & The Dominos. Layla And The Other...songs features the song, Layla, which might be Clapton's greatest achievement, though I have gotten sick of hearing it so often. The rest of the assorted "love songs" were mainly above average blues numbers, sometimes extended jams that show off what Clapton and Duane Allman were capable of. Since it was a double album, there is plenty of filler which (to me) prevents a higher grade, but all in all, it's a pretty damn good record.
4
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Wed Sep 27 2023
Odessa
Bee Gees
I am familiar with some of the Bee Gees pre-disco era and some of it is really good. Odessa is a concept album that is an overindulgent mess with directionless songs, a concept no one cares about and a performance that is schmaltzy and cheesy at times. A double album to boot, there is so much filler and with an opening track that is horrible, it sets the expectations low. Granted, there are a few good songs sprinkled into the mix, especially the Beatle-esque pop ones and a couple songs that resemble a poor man's Kinks attempt. I dislike disco (I attended a couple "disco sucks" rallies in the day), but I would actually prefer Saturday Night Fever (ugh!) or Spirits Having Flown and maybe even the Sgt. Peppers soundtrack...okay, it's not that bad!
2
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Thu Sep 28 2023
The Coral
The Coral
For the most part, I enjoyed The Coral's retro pseudo-psych sound. At times, it legit sounded like a different era (60's) that takes me back and the musicianship captures that sound well . With that being said, I'm not sure this music will be memorable, it doesn't offer any new ideas or unique styles. Can the band move forward and expand on the sound? I like the album, but it's limiting and I can't say I'll remember much of it tomorrow.
3
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Fri Sep 29 2023
Tellin’ Stories
The Charlatans
Didn't know what to expect. A lot of Brit-pop bands are hit and miss with me, but basically all I want to hear is crunchy, bright guitars, catchy songs and a band that is non-pretentiousness and passionate. Tellin' Stories checks most of those boxes and the music is enjoyable enough to not check my watch or to see when this would end. Maybe I underestimated the Charlatans or I had preconceived notions about the band, but whatever the reason, the music is fine and I'm glad I gave it a chance!
4