I seem to have completely missed out on this band for some weird reason (I'm 55) and now I've discovered them it's good news for me and slightly dubious for my wife and kids who don't share my musical taste. It's like an immersive experience and needs to be played loud with incense and alcohol. Heavy guitar driven, distorted with mumbled muted vocals and drums/bass to carry it along. There are discerable tunes and since they were late 80s- early 90s they obviously must have influenced a lot of the later bands I'd expect. A happy day for me albeit slightly embarassed.

It's my guilty secret that I can't help but like PSBs and this is my favourite. I bought it at the time and even went to see them in the 90's (with my girlfriend as cover). All 10 songs are of the highest quality- production, beat and style. The lyrics conjure up a glamourous and often sordid 80's highlife. It's unashamed and catchy.

Listened just yesterday to it. Infectious and driving referencing all the good stuff that's came before and inventing new things along the way. James Murphy is a great guy and his personality just flows out of the music. 'All My Friends' is such an anthem.

What I needed on a cold dreary Monday morning on the way to work. I've loved this album for many years and love reading the 'One Star' reviews. I guess that's what comes of hating the 70's.

It's like a cross-between Tom Waits and David Carradine in Kill Bill and so laid back he's basically horizontal. I understand he was in a lot of pain and near the end and that this like his spoken-word poetry but his early stuff is so much more worth listening to. I felt guilty in giving a low score so listen to it again. It does get better and maybe it's a mood thing so one night I'll play it again and get more out of it. Weirdly the attempt to jazz it up with gospel singers and organs has the opposite effect- surely it would be better more stark?

Solid heavy rock debut from one of the all-time greats. Blues and folk influences abound and it's delivered in such an assured and accomplished manner. Every musician here is at the peak of their talents.

I listened to the whole album which was an accomplishment but it was the same story for me with all the other albums of theirs. I've really always wanted to like Depeche Mode but end up being embarassed by lame rhyming lyrics and predictable melodies. Occasional flashes of a good song followed by the same melody or synth-trick over and over. Great if you're really into them or the whole scene but really too samey.

Lively raw and great fun. A couple of great classics in there to boot.

I loved 'It takes a Nation" but this is pretty much a continuation of the whole sound and nothing new? It just made me want to switch to the earlier album.

Dusty had a great voice and some great hits but I think there are a lot of fillers here. It's ok to listen to but not really inspirational.

It's ok I suppose and with half a billion listens in Spotify who can argue? She's midway between Bjork and Billie Eilish with some interesting tracks going on. I'd definitely listen again a few times to this before deciding. Very well produced and professional job all around.

More slick than 5 Leaves with some jazzy/country influences and a lot more upbeat in places. With a number of famous artists helping out it's well produced and professional. It's pleasant and easy to listen too. If Pink Moon hadn't been written I would have loved this album but I can't help compare it to his Masterpiece.

I seem to have completely missed out on this band for some weird reason (I'm 55) and now I've discovered them it's good news for me and slightly dubious for my wife and kids who don't share my musical taste. It's like an immersive experience and needs to be played loud with incense and alcohol. Heavy guitar driven, distorted with mumbled muted vocals and drums/bass to carry it along. There are discerable tunes and since they were late 80s- early 90s they obviously must have influenced a lot of the later bands I'd expect. A happy day for me albeit slightly embarassed.

It's my guilty secret that I can't help but like PSBs and this is my favourite. I bought it at the time and even went to see them in the 90's (with my girlfriend as cover). All 10 songs are of the highest quality- production, beat and style. The lyrics conjure up a glamourous and often sordid 80's highlife. It's unashamed and catchy.

I found this best listening late at night when I could concentrate. It grew on me as initially I hadn't the patience to sit for 26 mins when I tried it in the morning. The guy is just so talented and the back story to the concert makes you wonder how good it could have been although maybe it was amazing because of the adversity?

Listened just yesterday to it. Infectious and driving referencing all the good stuff that's came before and inventing new things along the way. James Murphy is a great guy and his personality just flows out of the music. 'All My Friends' is such an anthem.

I know this is considered one of the greatest albums but try as I might it really doesn't resonate with me. I like the hits but it seems a bit samey in-between and although I appreciate how it's influenced others this is really about American history and i'm more interested in other genres (Punk and New Wave).

I want to like these guys- the tracks are everything I normally like: quirky and oddball lyrics and tunes and such. They're ok but there's no spark. Maybe one day i'll get them......

I like Neil Young so it's not hard to get into his albums. Not every song is a winner but there's so much in here there's bound to be the odd glitch. A bit of country, a lot of rock, some great guitar solos plus Neil's voice hits the spot.

I love psychedelic rock and the band is pretty good. Of course JJ is intense and carries the show.

Listening to the whole album it's like the same song over and over but boy what a song! Even after over 60 years it's so full of life- I defy anyone not to start jigging around. Amazing. I left it playing track after track.....dancing in the kitchen :-)

Lol- I'd never heard of him and thought I'd listen to a couple of tracks before moving on. Captivated me from the start. Quite a retro 60's/70's feel but a lot of energy and very well produced.

It's interesting and enjoyable to listen to but not for me at the moment.

This really hit the spot tonight with me. So smooth and like being on a great effortless ride. Weirdly I found Street Life a lot different to the rest of the album which is ok.

I enjoyed it- I was never into this at the time. It's dated but great fun. I can't imagine how many bands they influenced.

Simply one of the GOAT. I can understand it's not for everyone but in it's genre it's unsurpassed. Nick's voice, guitar playing and the production make this a great friend when you need it.

I love these American alternative rock bands- no matter how derivative they still sound fresh and lively. I like all the quirky bits inbetween and they really know how to go for it when they do. So much noise generated I have to whack the volume up.

I've heard a couple of tracks at the time on the radio and liked them but never listened to the whole album until now but it's quirky and upbeat. I can understand the singers voice might grate for some but I think it works in the context of the band. Wildly differing tracks and sounds (eg: listen right to the end of Delta Sub) but I kinda think it hangs together ok. Favourite tracks Holes (love the theramin), Goddess and Funny Bird.

What I needed on a cold dreary Monday morning on the way to work. I've loved this album for many years and love reading the 'One Star' reviews. I guess that's what comes of hating the 70's.

Firstly I have to profess I'm a Hip-hop dunce but something like "It takes a Nation of Millions" is raw and addictive and came before this. I think this is like the cleaned up 'presentable' version of Hip-Hop dreamed up by Spike Lee and presented to America? It's like the equivalent of 'Fresh Prince' only it's not funny. 'Who's gonna take the weight?' is a good track but only because it's a Public Enemy clone. It's not bad, only middle of the road.

Bought this when it came out and still love it today. Great songwriting, slow acoustic followed by rocky tracks. This is a dad's-rock album but then that's what I am :-) I suspect a lot of the One-star votes come from young hipsters who've never heard of the Modfather.

Lol! It's a biggie this one. Almost every track is famous and culturally significant. This is Beatles in transition from boyband to transcendent gurus. There are albums I like better than this but this is probably their most accessible.

Lust and Passenger obviously the best tracks- and such great tracks! The other tracks..........well.

Love the Doors but there are better albums than this of theirs. Listening to this particular album it gels well but seldom gets beyond 2nd base apart from the 3 hits.

I'm a bit puzzled at this - I like JLL but this 22 minute live album with mainly covers of others hits and not particularly well recorded. I've read it's supposed to be the greatest etc but I don't agree.

I was never really into the Beasties back then but listening back now this is really pretty good - fresh, powerful and full of glee!

I love 80s and 90s U2 but by 2000 i'd moved on as they became a pre-Coldplay pop anthem band. The best slickest production doesn't hide the mediocrity. Sorry chaps.

So 80s and this guy was right there at the top. All the other stuff came later but at the time these tracks were on the radio and on MTV and partially defined the decade in my view. I know 9 of the 11tracks and it could even be a Greatest Hits album such is his fame. Very lively, catchy and well produced with all his trademark yelps etc. Good to listen to still although not his best (that had already passed).

Simply amazing. Very well produced and has 6/10 hits. IMO it's less about Reggae and more a platform for Bob so it's comes down to "do you like him or not".

It's pleasant and airy with a nice female vocalist and a mega-hit in the middle. I could probably get into this on repeated listens. Maybe.

This is a slice of history- I was into Cocteau Twins back then and never made the Bjork jump try as I might but this is really good listening now.

OMG! Yesterday it was Sugarcubes and today this! 1001albumgenerator certainly lives up to it's name. I like a bit of Metal and Lemmy has always been my hero (he damaged my eardrums back at Hammersmith) so this feels too clean to me now- well produced with undeniably catchy tunes. I liked the singles back then (Breaking and Living) and listening to the whole album now it's cohesive and well written so I've nothing to say against it, only that it doesn't make me want to turn the volume up.

Sounds very much Cream (not suprising considering as it had members from that group). This is the warm feeling of early 70s rock. Not taxing and good for a late night session. There's a bit of Sax in there too.

Mmm...Punk Metal meets something else in 1986 (i'm not entirely sure what). All the boats had already sailed by then unless it's marketed for people who missed out. I was not impressed and bailed out after 3 tracks I'm afraid.

I can't believe this is from 1995. It's about 15 years too late. Maybe it takes that long for this kind of sound to travel to San Diego. Uninventive, uninspiring and tired. Who decides this qualifies as one of the greatest?

Never been my favourite genre but this is sparse and crisp and clean and is really easy on the ear. It's certainly worth listening to. Strangely enough this is the same reason some hate it- it's not upbeat enough. You can't please all the people.........

Bookends is in my Top10 but I've never managed to get into this one apart from the hits it's populated by mid-60's music for the socially conscious College student. I consider them girding up for later times. Listening the whole way through doesn't change my opinion- great timeless song then a filler which really shows it's age.

I just wasn't into this at the time and really haven't time for it now. It's just not me although I guess she's trying to make a social commentary which is commendable but the music is so cliched and dated now. It's not that it's THAT bad, it's just a bit naff 30-odd years later.

A band i've heard of but never actually listened to apart from the hits but this sounds pretty fresh even after 37 years. Well produced with catchy and lively tunes and a fair bit of variation. Echoes of Van Morrison at times but I think they'd be great in concert- everyone dancing around with drinks held aloft.

It's a very nice album. Apart from the biggest hit and Down to Zero the rest are pleasant album fillers. Easy sounds and intelligent lyrics but's there's just something missing....

Came across this last year. Proto-punk apparently that burst kicking and screaming into the scene before getting banned obviously. It's pretty good if you're in the mood for raucous noise and energy. Musth've been great live in the 60's.

So 60's. I love a bit of psychadelic rock me but this doesn't hit me. I think I need to play this a few more times with some incense and bourbon and maybe I'll dig it.

Full of tunes despite the raucous energy. Effortlessly professional in pulling off this kind of thing (alternative or Post whatever). All this as a kind of therapy in the wake of the end of Nirvana. Impressive. The lyrics are pretty lame - lots of repetitive screamy ranting. Maybe intentionally anti-intellectual?

One of my all-time faves. I bought this at the time and played it constantly so of course it gets maximum stars. I guess it's aimed at predominantly young angry men in 1978 but it's still fresh and poetic, raucous and rocky even now. It has real classics - 'Down in the Tubestation' and 'English Rose' which are suprisingly poles apart but even the 'fillers' are gold: 'Fly' is the least listened track in Sp*tify but again IMO one of the best tracks on the album.

I've been spending the last few days listening to other albums and trying to conjure up kind words and trying to like songs I'll never listen to again. Then this pops up. If you don't like it then I'll not change your opinion but if like me it transcends everyday entertainment for you and becomes a cultural icon then you'll understand. Maybe like other stand outs (eg: Chuck Berry, Sgt Pepper, Woodstock etc) you needed to be there to fully appreciate it? I don't know. Listening to it again (twice) it strikes me that I find it difficult to separate the film and subsequent Berlin concert etc and Roger Waters huge ego with the actual initial album. It gels really well although like other 'Rock Operas' there are transition tracks inbetween the big hits. All in all it has to be 5/5 for what it is and what it has become.

It's good, not as good as later albums but still worth a listen. I love their sound but like so many others have commented are there no other albums out there more worthy than this? 'Songs for the Deaf' is better in my opinion. Still. This is a great sound.

It's like a cross-between Tom Waits and David Carradine in Kill Bill and so laid back he's basically horizontal. I understand he was in a lot of pain and near the end and that this like his spoken-word poetry but his early stuff is so much more worth listening to. I felt guilty in giving a low score so listen to it again. It does get better and maybe it's a mood thing so one night I'll play it again and get more out of it. Weirdly the attempt to jazz it up with gospel singers and organs has the opposite effect- surely it would be better more stark?

Pleasant but not challenging. This has been done better before (Daft Punk and Chemical Bros) so do we need to listen to it all again? This Mylo is SUPER clever so why he decided to devote himelf to being a DJ is beyond me.

I like Prog Rock but this is pretty gratuitous. I groaned when I saw it was LIVE too and was amazed the Geordies let them out alive at the end! Only joking and there's some good musicianship in parts but other parts it's like they're making it up as they go along. I gave it another go and it does grow on you (like what I won't say!) I need to listen to the classical piece it's based on I guess.....

I grew up with this album so it's difficult to view it objectively. I can see how some might see this as a bit wishy-washy musically but the sound has Lennon stamped on it and it depends on whether it's your bag. There are some genuine classics here though- Imagine (of course), Jealous Guy, Give me some Truth, but my favourite has always been 'How do you sleep' which was aimed at Paul and is pretty scathing and is surely one of the best songs anywhere. After listening again to the whole album there are a few weaker tracks but the general album taken as a whole is worthy of *****

Well I wasn't expecting this. Reading Wiki and looking at reviews I'm piecing this together I think. Airy and easy listening, floaty and mellow I don't really need to know the words as I'm sure they match the music. I don't dislike it but there are other Brazilian artists in the 60's that have real integrity and punch. I'm thinking the Beatles are an influence? Maybe the French pop artists from the 60's too? Musically quite accomplished- but as others have noted the production isn't great (it's a bit tinny and flat).

My brain is telling me this is amazing and that PJ is a bonafide genius (she is) but it's like someone giving you a glass of the best Red wine and you know it's the best but you just don't really like Red wine that much and prefer beer. I've played it twice and there are some tracks (Rid of Me and Mansized) I'm digging but the rest just seems a bit flat. Her lyrics are at times really dynamic and she's a crazy full-on individual so shouldn't be judged surely face-on but maybe she needs more variation?

Really not what I needed to see today. Slick, well produced and inoffensive but totally devoid of originality, guts or a cutting edge. I could play this late at night with a bourbon and incense smoking in the corner but Barry White did it so much better. He's not in the top 1001 so this is getting 1*

It's got all the hallmarks of other bands and guitarists. I like Peter Green and Cream so this sounds like a pale imitation- but then Mayall seems to have been there first! It just doesn't do it for me though- the production seems tinny, Mayall's vocals are poor ('What'd I say') and the songs written by him are embarassing- ('Little Girl'). The rest are covers and it's only 'Ramblin' on my mind' (sung by Clapton) that lifts it above the mediocre. It begs the question - should we venerate an album because it came first but was eclipsed by later music? The same applies to other genres too I'd say. The guitar work obviously is wonderful and there are some nice touches in there with John McVie on bass and even Mayall on harmonica but ultimately I'll stick to Cream and Green.

I needed this. Too many mediocre albums have passed by. I bought this as a kid and played it to death and even 47-odd years later people are still listening to it in droves. So varied- even the 'dodgy' tracks are great (Lazing on a Sunday. I'm in love with my car) and all have a story attached to them. Vocals (and not just Freddies), guitar, bass and drums all top of the game and the production is beyond perfection. Even the one-star reviews admit how mega it all is and base the score on just not being into it's excess. 'Death on two Legs' is my favourite Queen song by the way....If I could give this 1000 stars I would.

I like this. I saw it flash up and thought 'Oh.....Jazz'.....but it's soothing and really positive imo. I'm not knowledgeable about Jazz but I think what they are trying here was really brave and paved the way for a lot more to come. Reading Wiki it was the first Fusion album with elements of electronic, rock without the jazz swing and I think it really works. Put this on and chill........

Ideas flowing from every track (this was recorded 2 miles from me at Strawberry Studios using Paul Mcartney's drum kit!) and was a superbly self-produced collection of widely disparate ideas - I can pick out sounds sampled by other bands here 30 years later (J Dilla's “Workinonit) and it seems miles ahead of anything else. I mean they even resample themselves (Clockwork creep vs I'm Mandy Fly Me). Sadly though there's no real cohesion and the listening experience is exhausting trying to keep track of everything going on. No real hits as such (Wall Street shuffle is the biggest track on the album) so I wouldn't class it as a classic album but it's not trying to be. Like someone else commented- it's like they were mucking around in the studio and decided to release it.

Ahhh.......yes I needed this! I pity the fool who this doesn't reach in a primal orgasmafunkadelic way. I was too young to appreciate the 70's but it's now my favourite decade....

Great energy and rhythm and hard to imagine this is live too. Seems a bit cobbled together at the end with Ginger Baker seemingly adding credibility to the whole affair when it stands on it's own merits. Just falls short because of this in my view. Leaves me wanting something else but definitely worth listening to.

I'm quite reassured this one appeared. Recently I've been listening to too many interesting obscure albums I've never heard of and actually being impressed but this one is by a band I've heard of but just never liked and that was way back in the 80's. I appreciate the energy and integrity but see no musical merit. It shouldn't be here I'm afraid.

Wow! Didn't expect to see this. Wife and all 3 daughters like her and this album is full of hits all of which she's written herself and has 19 tracks running over an hour too so what more can you say? On the flip side it could be argued some songs are insipid and poppy but then the same thing could be levelled at the many of the 1000 albums. I think it comes down to a question of taste and percieved integrity in what people listen to. I'd rather listen to Joy Division and that's just my taste but I really like a lot of these songs and think she's immensely talented.

Oh Boy do I remember this album- my sister played it to death. Listening to it now is quite refreshing since a lot has happened since. There's a lot of energy and flamboyance and no matter how OTT it's Prince. It just epitomises the 80's for me so I wouldn't play this other than for nostalgia. Musically dare I say I find it quite two dimensional: lots of energy and skill but there's no depth. Even the deeply personal tracks don't come across with any emotion. Maybe it's like the man himself- there's an impenetrable mask?

I like Sam Cooke and it's great to hear a genuine live performance with the bits in between. The production and vocals aren't as crisp as a studio recording but it's great that these were preserved. I would argue that this is his ONLY album in 1001 and that there are better albums of his. There seems to be a slant towards live albums in this chart which is ok if that's your thing but it's not what people primarily listen to and they only like the live albums off the back of the studio albums.

It's a bit difficult to review this as I was there in 1981 and bought and loved this album. So there's a lot of nostalgia and since I still love Synth this isn't going to be objective. When you've played songs many times it's difficult. It's not the best out there and the sounds never progress from the basic repetitive beat. Heaven 17 moved towards a Funky sound (beats and vocals) but the lyrics and sound are still 6th Form (is that 12th grade nowadays?). After splitting from Human League they were trying to create an image and production along the lines of Factory Records but it never really took off as essentially there are glimpses of brilliance in there but rarely does anything emerge. To be honest I think their next album The Luxury Gap is better than this but hasn't made the 1001. Some of their choices are odd.

I'm not the greatest fan of Dylan and I'm not alone in thinking I should like him but don't. I appreciate how hugely influential he was at the time but he grates after a while and gets a bit samey and again I'm not alone in this. Maybe the issue lies with me being spoilt by 58 years of ever more technically advanced and innovative music since this and I'm comparing it on the same level? I mean it's like listening to a recording of Robert Johnson and saying "He can't sing and his guitar goes right through me". Some things deserve respect.

I like the idea of alternative country and this isn't too bad. Not really Country at all in places (imo) and it improves with every listen although I prefer their later albums but don't see why they have so many entries in the 1001 albums.

Contrasting opinions on this- I like the genre but this album veers wildly from chaotic tunes to steady almost enjoyable Brazilian beat pieces It seems like the Milton Nascimento album- there are so many other better albums out there but the '1001 album' judges just choose the first album by an influencial band and stick with it?

No need to even think on this one as it's been one of my favourites for many years and almost every track is a solid gem. The last 3 tracks are my least favourites. Of course there will be people who feel it dated or don't like folk inspired music but this has two of the greatest songs ever written. An even better thing is that this isn't even their best album in my rating. That came 2 years before.

Why am I listening to something that was about 20 years too late? It's like Punk had taken that long to reach these guys. One moment they were strumming out Beach Boys tunes and then someone burst in holding a copy of 'God Save the Queen' circa 1993 and said "have you heard these guys?" 1001Albums seems to have a warped idea on what is ground-breaking. There are like 150 pages devoted to the 60's and 200 pages to the 90's. Which was the most ground-breaking and influential decade? Mmmmm.....

This is a 'love-it or Hate-it' scenario. I can see a whole army of 1* reviewers massing on the border....... I used to love 'Phil Collins Genesis' and thought 'Peter Gabriel Genesis' dull but actually listening to this now it's like the Heavens have opened and the sun is shining down. It's marvellous. I'm in Prog-Paradise. The musicianship is amazing and the meandering bits no longer irritate me. Maybe it's an age thing? Our army of 5* defenders will repel the enemy!

1978. yeah it was there right in the middle of it. Even their name tells you what to expect. They were there with Devo and Talking Heads too and I bet they had fun making this. I understand the need for this to exist but it's not enjoyable.

Freak Out! Love it. Nile Rodgers is the slickest dude around. The hits are outstanding and the other tracks are pleasant muzak. The former Disco legends and the latter more laid back and jazzy-soul.

I've nothing against this. It's just not me. 80s MOR rock made for Mid-west radio stations. Personally I prefer Black Sabbath or Motorhead. Nothing wrong with it, just not me.

I was ready to give this a poor rating and then I actually listened to the album. Another band I've heard of but missed at the time (I was into other genres) but for once it's pretty decent. I like the sound from the first few notes and it gets better and better. It really resonates with me now. There's a LOT of 80's and 90's bands in this chart and I'm not too sure why? This is an exception and it deserves it's place in the chart. It's pretty interesting to read this was their first studio album and only 2nd overall and yet it sounds so confident and assured. Nicely paced and varied it paves the way for a lot of the 90's sound and beyond. Outstanding.

What an amazing woman. Just seeped into my mind and body, her voice and her piano. Four classics but only one song written by her which is a suprise. Those were the days I guess.

This sounds so familiar to me since it's what I grew up with. Listening critically though it's not the best in any shape or form- other bands had been there before and the lyrics and musicianship is pretty average. I guess they edge it for me in their cuddliness and good looks.

These guys were massive. Even now 'Come on Eileen' is played at the end of wedding receptions (this is the one where your old uncle Dick puts his tie on his head and joins the dancefloor). I'd heard a few of the other tracks over the years but this is the first time i've listened to the whole album. I think they were attempting to create a myth of their own centred around the band with dungarees and dreadlocks but it didn't really pan out and they eventually fizzled out. Even so it's clean healthy music- drum and bass with horns accompanying the vocals. It's fun to listen to and a lot better than I though it would be (album fillers around the big hits).

I love Steely Dan so why wouldn't I like this? A couple of big hits surrounded by effortlessly smooth and well produced tracks. All together great for relaxing and pondering intelligent lyrics. I was into the Jam and New order at the time but now I'm older this appeals to my older bones.......it's upbeat but sooooooothing.

I really want to like these guys- alway have, but there's nothing in here to snag my engagement. I mean it's intelligent and quirky but there's something missing and I'm not quite sure what. ......later. It gets better listening to it again but still not outstanding. Maybe repeated listens does the trick?

I just don't understand why some albums make it into the top 1001 whilst other less trendy singers/bands are out in the cold. Not even a sniff. Heavily biased selection in my view towards the 80's onward and towards glamorous groups with a few 00's Spotify plays. I don't mind this band but this album is just derivative and bland.

This really brings back memories- this is a great album. Used to play it all the time. Kinda timeless- hasn't seemed to date with a mix of acoustic guitar, drum, bass and organ. She's got such a great strong voice, I don't know what happened to her? Ironic that the people she's singing about are the ones finding this dull. Lol!

Just wasn't into them at the time but this was justifiably popular then and now. Great sound- almost retro and great energy paving the way for many bands afterwards. They blend all kinds of sounds into a cohesive whole and all the time it's never dull or repetitive. It either works or doesn't at all. For me it's 5*****

Whoah. Hard to say much about this. It's true that every song is like an emotional rollercoaster and you've got to be in the mood for the ride. Her passion, energy and voice are legendary but it really feels dated. Not sure why.

If you're expecting a slick, well produced album from a professional bunch with a classically trained singer and lyricist you'll give this a 1* However this is a raw, gutsy, passionate and quite varied affair. The title track at 10 mins veers around in multiple directions and doesn't tire although it's true some of the other tracks can be a bit samey. This influenced a huge number of better known bands to come which is a shame as they are simply compared to them.

This is Leonard as I like to think of him. I feel guilty at giving 'You want it darker' a bad review. This is a solid 5*****. If you like this sort of thing it's going to hit you between the eyes. It's kinda like the same song with slight variations but the song is a hypnotic soothing affair that takes you away from the everyday hustle and bustle. Storytelling at it's very best.

Great retro sound. This harks back to the Merseybeat 60's sound. Fresh, crisp and clear it's like a summer breeze. Weird I wrote that before I read the Wiki page! Still, like a lot of these airy songs there's no cutting edge so nothing to stay with you.

It's more interesting than enjoyable. I really like the title track and 'Season of the Witch' but the other songs baffle me veering off at musical tangents it's difficult to classify. Certainly not boring but more cultural history.

I initially pigeonholed this as shouty punk with not much variation (kind of what you would expect from a punk band in 1978) but this gets better the more you play it . Poly was truly one in a million and her personality resonates through the album. The Sax and synth is not a standard Punk sound and I would go as far to say this isn't punk at all? Very early New-Wave? lol! Some slower tracks with quite cutting lyrics too- I mean it's not Shakespeare but better than a lot of other bands I think. "Her phobia is infection, she needs one to survive It's her built-in protection, without fear she'd give up and die" "My mind, is like, a plastic bag That corresponds, to all those ads It sucks up all the rubbish That is fed in through my ear" Plus it's now on Spotify now which is good.

I like to think I like the Blues but this was a bit hit and miss for me. This chart seems to lean heavily on LIVE albums as being a cut above studio albums (especially from the 60's) but I just don't agree with that viewpoint. The tracks are pretty well known enough but whether it's the live performance aspect there seems to be a lack of raw emotion from Muddy. He seems to almost rush through the whole concert so he can go home (which would be understandable since there was a riot the night before). The tracks veer from slower numbers to more dancey tunes and he ends up singing the same song twice near the end. The last track is the best- and that's not even Muddy because he'd ducked out at that point. Having said all that it's still a great album from one of the greatest.

I played this 4 times really wanting it to click but apart from the title track which i'd always liked the rest just doesn't reach me emotionally. I know it would really irritate any fans but it just reminds me of Bat out of Hell which was around the same time and I think that really has the depth this lacks. The music is well produced and slick but it seems.......well bland. I can't believe I've said that. Maybe just one more listen? Surely I'mm missing something somewhere.......

I've always loved these guys although I like their later stuff (more mellow) If you're not into electronic repetitive dance beats you might wanna give this a skip. It can be a bit noisy too in places. Overall, they are the best at what they do.

My favourite Heavy Metal band. I went to see them in the 80's and my ears have never fully recovered...... The dodgy lyrics and nihilist image don't detract in my view but only add to the mythos surrounding the band. Lemmy is a 100% cast-iron Legend to me and the fact that some of the WOKE reviews are seriously worried that their sons and daughters will be tainted by listening to this make me chuckle. Musically it's quite accomplished (especially the guitar solos) and needs to be played at top volume. 🌟 🌟🌟🌟🌟

Apart from the title track this is generic stuff. Varied tracks but nothing world-shattering. It had been already done better and was soon superceded in 1972 by other genres. It's pleasant enough but that's all.

It was really interesting listening to this- it's another world and I'm glad to be living in a (relatively) safe boring suburb. The swearing and sex references kinda add to the whole impression. It's an eye-opener. The biggest tracks are R&B raps and are ok but I like the bits at the beginning- like uncut rough bits. Whatever you think of him as a human being he was a gifted storyteller.

One of the strangest albums I've listened to. 1/ Album cover looks like some 70's low-budget slasher movie soundtrack 2/ the sounds are 80's R&B elevator wallpaper muzak 3/ the lyrics are borderline dodgy explicit I'm thinking this would be a great gang from 'The Warriors' called 'The Thundercats'. They could suddenly ambush you from all sides carrying blades and nunchucks singing smooth R&B with dancemooves and singing "We're going to KIIIIIIIIIIIILL you!!!" Classic.........

It's almost effortless- so smooth. He really is one of the greatest. Just listening to Stevie makes the world a slightly less bad place. Of course there's the big hits but with repeated plays other songs come out of the woodwork. 'Lookin' for another pure love' is a case in point. There's an intricate balance going on all through this album- the singing, rhythm and the beat with the instruments all together. It's not that immediately apparent in my view.

I groaned initially but listened with an open mind and it's quite enjoyable. Lots of different sounds and although not the most groundbreaking stuff I like the genre. No discernible hits but listened to it as a whole. I do wonder if it deserves to be here when so many other artists haven't managed it. Even so it's 4🌟🌟🌟🌟 because I like it.

I like her collaborations on other people's albums but not sure on the variety on her own. I gave the last one a bad review (rid of me). Very gutsy and raw with a lot of vocal repetitions (deliberate for affect). I'm liking the guitar/bass/drums better on this one though- kinda grungey.

Faith is one of my all time faves and I was always disappointed in their later stuff thinking they were basically a pop band with a safe Goth pose. However I've listened to this 3 times today and each time it's grown more on me. It's still the same couple of famous tracks and a few weaker songs like most albums but the remaining ditties are quite varied and interesting. It's basically a quite sophisticated sound.

Very powerful. Very angry. Very assured. One track flows through to another with a killer beat. Feel like I shouldn't be listening to this and allowed to enjoy this but it's so so good.

This is an odd group and an odd album. It's enjoyabe but difficult to classify. I guess it's World Rap Music? It's easy on the ears with a couple of high points plus a good variety of sounds on different tracks.

I liked this- i'm into this kinda sound at the moment but..... ....it doesn't deserve to be in this list. There are so so many artists that aren't trendy and that the judges deem not worthy.

Not what I was expecting. It's far more enjoyable than any of their 80's stuff I was clenching my teeth to listen to. It has half decent guitars and a cool 70's Rock (even blues) vibe. And of course there's the Mega hits (Walk and Easy) which goes to prove your pre-conceived ideas can be wrong.

Some harsh reviews for this considering there's a lot of dross with a lot of stars in this chart. I found it pleasant with some interesting sounds, samples from films and other bands but isn't that the name of the game nowadays? Easy listening and cool.

70s Salsa and funky. I find it really easy on the ears and good to have on and relax. Started to question it's credentials but the Wiki put me right. Very influential all over the Latin world.

Not really knowing anything about C&W or aware of the different styles (Country or Honky-Tonk) and approaches (Outlaw or Nashville) this stands well on it's own without needing anything else. It's obviously not 'poppy' like say Kenny Rogers and Tammy Wynette and sounds more like a smokey bar whisky saloon version. It also sounds very 70's in a nostalgic good way.......but as I listened and then relistened the different tracks started to separate. Some tracks are out and out Country with a twangy guitar but also some tracks that are closer to Irish Folk (Willy & me) I think which is suprising since most were written by one guy (Billy Joe Shaver). What I'm saying is there's a fair bit of variety which makes it easy to listen to. Not bad.

This took me back. To days before Spotify where you would hear a track on the radio or a friend would put this on the turntable and you'd say "Oh is this the new George Michael album?". I can now listen back to it and enjoy the tracks but at the time they were bound up with the late 80's and the stigma of sexuality and 'post-Wham'. There are some really good tracks on this album- smooth and introspective. It's very 80's with some of the tricks of the trade you got then (back-beats and echo).

I was really disappointed with this one. I knew the big hits and liked them but the other tracks seem to show they were a one-trick-pony. It's a very impressive trick but a bit dull listening to a whole album of it.

Is this 21 minute EP worthy of being on this list? There are many albums and artists far more inspiring that are not listed. Just because this influenced a lot of American clone bands who've never even heard of the Dolls or Pistols (who were doing the same stuff 10 years previously to this) means they are insular and not revolutionary.

It sounds so professional, well played and produced, superlatively smooth with intelligent insightful lyrics but for the life of me I can't find a hook or anything catchy after 2 listens. No singles and no hits which isn't a problem with some artists who aren't setting out to do that so i'm not sure what happened.

I like Public Enemy better and this sounds pretty similar to me and came later. What makes me laugh are those that are blowing up this whole thing like he's Shakespeare born again. It's ok but only if you're in an angry mood.

I was trying to think how this stands above the other 60s harmony bands. Great harmonies, vocals, orchestration and production and John Phillips songs are incredible. There are the hits, some covers and a bit of Cass too! This, the Beatles and Jimi are the 60s for me.

I thought I really should like this but it just didn't do it for me- it's quaint and quirky and very British but doesn't have any bite although it does get better with repeat listens. Full of strange lines and odd instruments without any descernable theme or hits.

Boy I've not heard this in ages and it's great to hear it again. If anything it's better- a post-modern eclectic mixture that rolls on never staying in one place. I can understand it doesn't appeal to all tastes but it appeals to mine. Kinda grungey and laid back folky with samples and splurges and hooks that disappear off.

Initially groaned when this popped but it's not really THAT bad. Generic yes but there are nice touches (sitar is good) and it's pretty much what you would expect of mid-90s grungey ALT-rock American bands. Musically professional rock- well produced and well played plus the vocals of Mark Lanegan are interesting to listen to. Another reviewed has pointed out the theory that the '1001 Execs' decided that there are 30-40 Genres and each should have 20-30 representative so therefore some Genres will be scraping the bottom of the barrel whilst others will end up leaving absolute classics out in the cold. This sits mid-table so although it's not bad it ain't a Classic.

It's inescapable that Toy Story has done for old Randy since it's very difficult to separate him from the film. What some perhaps don't know is how many well known songs he has written (mainly for other people)....... for example halfway down the list is 'You can leave your hat on' which was a huge hit for Joe Cocker from the film 9.5 weeks. This music is 'One man and a piano in a smokey bar drinking singing about his troubles in life' which some may find dreary but in the right circumstances is soothing to listen to.

Is this hip-hop? There are a few tracks where she gets to do her thing but it's like the record executives decided they wanted a R&b Beyonce clone with generic studio tricks sounding like Janet Jackson's daughter. Too slick with no heart, feeling or commitment. There's just too many layers of gloss to see deep down- I suspect underneath she's a talented artist with something to say but she's buried beneath the whoops and drum tracks.

I reviewed the other Chic album and gave it a good mark but why are there two albums that are basically the same? Good times is the best song with Forbidden lover following closely on and the hits but the others are either identical beat with one line repeated for 4 minutes or laid back lovers soul. It's like the 1001 executives rigidly have to fill each genre with the required 20 albums regardless of quality.

I'm a bit biased since this is one of my favourite albums already. This is like pure silk through the avenues of my mind, so cool it defies classification and about as mellow as you'll ever need.

Effortlessly funky and cool. There are just so many influences going on here and in turn it influenced those after it. A great sound.

That feeling when one of your favourites pops up on the 1001.........😊 I've listened to this for many years and it is quite simply in the Top 10 of all albums ever produced. Barry Godber's haunting artwork inside and out, Peter Sinfields mystical lyrics, Fripps inspired guitar, McDonald's multitude of wind and Keyboard instruments (that Sax is a killer), Lake's vocals and powerful bass (so dominant) and Giles's drums (i've never heard anyone play the drums that well since)....... .......and finally to the Vision: to create something that stands alone in it's own world, untouched and eternal. There are haters that like to label everything and disdainfully call this 'Prog' then close their minds. Of course it's their own choice but I think they're missing out.

Musically it's really lively and addictive and very accomplished. As a political statement it goes way beyond anything I know of according to Wiki. Difficult to separate the two but outstanding overall.

I've not really listened to much late Neil Young music (I love his early stuff) as I've always thought he'd run out of ideas by then. This kinda confirms that opinion although there are a few outstanding tracks I need to go back to. For a live album (well partly 'live' and then finished off in the studio) it's got a good feel to it and the songs are new with something to say (although a bit dated now). Overall it's a good listen for a Neil Young fan although I do think 7 albums on this chart might be a bit excessive.

It's my birthday today and this is 1001's present to me rather than some obscure mid-80's album by some unknown dirt band. I found this many years ago in my dad's collection and have been on an Electro journey ever since but these guys are the Godfathers of Electronic music. You don't get any better than this and it's a trip from start to finish. Experimental, ambient, jarring and hypnotic. 🌟🚗🌟🚗🌟🚗🌟🚗🌟🚗

Whatever you think of the lady she had one hell of a voice- this is the pinnacle for what it is. Powerful, soulful and refreshing.

Controversial and infectious. Very 90's and hypnotic. This was around long before the Wokes were weeping into their Lattes and the Prodigy are a breathe of fresh air in turgid times. I need to play this every morning before I trudge to work to remind me there is life. 25 years on I struggle to think of anyone with as much energy nowadays. Glastonbury is full of comeback bands relying on past times and youngsters copying old masters. This is tremendous.

Were these guys the originals? I don't know as this scene is so incestuous and fatuous now with claims and counterclaims. These bands seem to be legion and identical and spawn a multitude of self-important fans and even the people who give this a single star only do it as a reaction against the whole scene regardless of class or content. But the music isn't bad and it's well structured and professionally played and I guess this IS kinda the beginning and to be honest and I do know half the songs and actually do like them so what more is there to be said?

The musical merits of this album are overshadowed by the hype and his unfortunate history. We are here to judge the album I believe? At the time I was pulled along by the rollercoaster too and loved it. There's nothing deep and meaningful here, it's supremely well produced and slick pop music with very little to match it. Every track is a hit.

1 x (9+7) +9 /5=🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Plus Tonight, tonight!

There are 3 albums on this list by Sinatra but this is really Jobim's music and Frank is along for the ride. This album is well produced and the music very professional (no doubt because it's Frank) but considering there are some equally great singers (and songwriters) not on this list at all it's a disgrace. It's all to do with filling up each Genre category. Some categories have a lot of competition and others are fairly empty. Stupid way of deciding IMO. This will be classed as 'Bossa Nova'. Gilberto and Getz do it better. For that alone 🌟

A more experimental and diverse Sabbath I think. Smoother and not as Heavy. More accomplished. Still good but easy to listen to.

You shouldn't judge Bob by other's standards. Love him or loathe him he's an icon.... .....and this is one of his best.

Iconic rock (not too extreme). Kinda like it ushered in the showman glitzy Rock of the 80's before it got grungy again in the 90's. It's ok, bearable in small doses like this. Well produced and controlled and accomplished musically but it doesn't have that dirty feel- it's a bit too sanitised. Compare this with Ace of Spades (also 1980) and you may agree? It reminds me why I never got into them. Still good though.

Doesn't add to anything he did earlier. Marvin did some amazing music and this is like excessive noodlings and musing centred on his ex-wife. I don't understand how these albums get added to the list. It's just irrelevant and unnecessary.

I'm happy there are CAN albums in this list. But there are other albums of theirs I prefer that aren't on the list(?!). As others have commented this is TOO experimental- not enough key phrases or rhythms to get your teeth into. This is good for chilling to though. Put it on, do some chores, take a shower and come back like you've never been away.....

I'm glad this makes it onto the list. It's kinda the opposite to me in it's sentiment and viewpoint but it's real and 100% genuine and boy does it blow away the glue that's stuck my mind today. I like the odd-ball DIY feel with weird sounds and odd chord changes that are never predictable or dull. She's like the evil twin of Taylor Swift and PJ Harvey's American cousin. I'm impressed and I need to listen again.

In 1983 New Order were my favourite band and Blue Monday was played on constant repeat. They promptly hit the high-life and things went downhill. It's a problem with a lot of bands I think. It's not to say this isn't good, but that it has been done by them before and lacks integrity. This is dance pop. Very good dance pop with a New Order slant. Synths, weird/lame lyrics and programmed drums and guitar chords strumming this has all the hallmarks of New Order I like but in an Ibiza nightclub.

Godammit I like this genre. I know it's not very inventive and gutsy but it's easy listening and chill. Reminds me of a lot of bands that I suddenly realise are not very original. If all the best tracks from all the 'dream-pop' bands were put in a 'greatest hits' album then that would deserve to be in the top 1001 maybe.

I like the Pixies but they are a 'mood' band for me. This is good, inventive, quirky and of course hugely influencial. If you could bottle up 'not contrived' then this would be it.

I like the whole Grunge scene and this is what you get here and nothing else. It's like a female Nirvana- pretty wasted and shouty so if it's your bag then you'll be happy. Otherwise you'll find it difficult to sit through.

Brian Eno is one of my favourites and so is this album. There are many no doubt who will be horrified by this and I enjoy reading their 'wtf?!' reviews but I'm happy it's found a place in the 1001. This is a cornerstone of ambient music and although I like Hendrix, Joy Division, Motorhead, Pet Shop boys and many more I also enjoy this and think if all music was the same life would be very dull. This is ambient.

I'd only previously listened to 'Jesus, Etc' and based my opinion on the band as such- big mistake. No wonder their record company freaked out. I've listened to the album a couple of times and it's really quirky, odd and random in places. I'm pretty impressed by it- 'alternative rock'/Art rock pretty much sums it up. It's a bit downbeat too- not a happy lively album but I like it.

Easy listening- I like the low key grimey mood. Enough variety to keep me interested.

Maybe not one of the greatest but I really enjoyed the vibe. Laid back, mainly instrumental, rhythmical and well produced. I'll be listening again.

This is one of the sounds of the 60s. Everything from the garish, psychadelic cover to the keyboards, the drum beat and harmonies. The production is crisp and clear- there's nothing to not like. I love it.

The Stranglers vs. the Wokes. I know who I'd rather listen to. They manage to offend just about everyone. Man that bass, that keyboard.........I love these guys. This is seminal 70's UK punk.

This seems so long ago now.......it was played everywhere so listening to it now is refreshing. It's jazz and very laid back. She's got a lovely voice. I guess the young kittens don't like it 'cos there's no shiny objects but it sounds good for me at the end of the evening.

Not at all what I thought it's quite smooth and R&B really. Background music generally so don't understand how it's so groundbreaking. Lots of sampling with rapping over the top. There are a lot of better albums out there surely?

Wow! How to include just about every prior genre in one piece: classical, jazz, big band and blues. Chordant, discordant, soft then jarring it's a rollercoaster ride. It's difficult to judge. Should it even be here? There are some other instrumental, classical-led albums and electronic albums so I guess so.

I'm a fan of this genre which is fortunate because it does have it's moments. This album has some highs but also some bland wallpaper moments (similar to 10cc). Accomplished musicianship, lots of sounds, experimental bits and random lyrics which occasionally click but often don't. Still, the good bits outweigh the bland so I like this.

My favourite Folk band. Supremely accomplished musicianship. Well produced- it's rockier and jazzier than other albums but these guys are at the top of their game. I understand most people don't like this at all but that's always the way and always will be.

5 albums in the 1001 is too many. He's ok but not that earthshatteringly groundbreaking. Once you've heard one they all merge into one grungy gruff throated barroom lowlife soliloquy. Still, they make good listening.......

Weird that this was mainly nerdy white Brits introducing me to this music way back then. Listening back now it's well produced, clean, marshmallowy and very 80's. Still, it's pretty good and certainly made a splash in 1983. It's a corny, catchy collection stolen from other continents and is a one-off oddity of Hip Hop, Latin and African beats. This chart captures moments like this. It's a 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 just to irritate the baby chick zoomers who give this one star.

This is chocked full of hits- Elton really is a musical chameleon and this is pretty Rock-y in places. Great song writing and very well produced although it can sound a bit dated in places- very 70s. Still, it's easy to listen to but has edginess too. I like it.

I just love the 70's UK punk sound- so fresh and raw. Reminds me of playing 7" vinyl singles on the portable player in my bedroom at top tinny volume until my dad started kicking the door and telling me to turn it down. After a while it's kind of samey but great nonetheless.

The Chilis are no longer cool to like, however at the time they were hot. This has hits and is well packaged, produced and performed. Relentless, assured and in your face. I like their energy - bass and drum relentless with a funky guitar and basically wrapping lyrics. A lot of the albums in this 1001 are low key and unknown. This is the opposite.

This is very modern in a retro way- has all the ingredients I like (musicianship, weird oddbeat things and wailing vocals that make no sense). It borrows from lots of other sources (in a good way) from Muse to Rush and even way back to 70's Prog and Psychadelic Rock. The only thing I would level at it is that it feels very contrived ( which may be their intention?). I do like it.

Sumptuous and lovely. Shades of Portishead, intricate orchestral arrangements and....yes it's ethereal. I can understand why some find it boring because it's not ordinary. It has all the ingredients I enjoy.

Had this CD stuck in the car 20 years ago and must have played it a zillion times. Still like it though- the tracks are like a soothing mantra to me. On the face of it Play is a bunch of samples with a disco beat but I think the sum is greater than the parts.

It's pleasant- I can appreciate what they've tried but don't see what's so groundbreaking about this? When I think of the albums that have missed out because their 'Genre-quota' of 25 albums was full I realise what's wrong with the album selection of the 1001.

Iconic. There's not much to say and it's been overplayed so maybe doesn't have an impact on playing. Nevertheless it's very assured, musically proficient and well produced so can't be knocked on that front. Maybe if you don't like 70's rock?

This is a Classic. Smooth and assured- Jazzy and cool. Neatly framed by the two hits.

This is a real revalation- of course I've heard these guys in passing but never really listened to this album. It's a real eclectic mix of style - not entirely original but I found this really enjoyable. Rock 'n roll and trip hop meets electronic industrial.

Very interesting to listen to- there's no clear cut classification in my mind. Maybe Trip-Hop/Electronica but it merges from track to track with samples, drum beats and synth. It's good to have playing in the background or to chill to.

Weirdly I've just had the previous Bowie album 'Young Americans' and it's interesting to see the transition and thinking ahead to Low (which I did a couple of weeks back). It helps to solidly play them (not just the hits) and get into the vibe. I get a real feel for the 70's hedonistic lifestyle from this. Almost spaced out. Well written and produced- quite rocky after the smooth Young Americans. It's Bowie in the end and a classic.

I guess there's a need to add some contemporary albums to this 1001. This is really enjoyable but adds nothing to Henley/Springsteen/Petty who all have pioneered this sound. Still, I quite like it. More ethereal perhaps, haunting guitars and synths rather than rock.

This gets better as it goes along and reading about her and her life puts it into perspective. Her infuence isn't just musical. A wide range of African songs, jazz songs and calypso (I guess that's Harry Belafonte's influence). Her voice is spectacular.

A bit of nostalgia for sure. This is authentic punk - shouty and loud with a political slant. 'Police and Thieves' (the cover) is an indication of the direction they went in which is where I left them but seems to be predictably people's favourite song.

So this is one of the lowest rated album...... It's not that bad to be honest and musically is quite accomplished, cohesively engineered and produced. If I felt in a sleazy-glam-rock type of mood I'd put this on. It sounds like a lot of other bands which is ok- they've taken what they wanted. Overall it's not as bad as some make out.

Mr Waits has quite a few albums on this chart. Well done Mr Waits. Unfortunately, whilst pretty good and spanning many years they are all pretty samey. I have listened to 3 of them now and they are indistinguishable. Bluesy, sleazy, smoke filled bars with gravely voice, milkbottles and brokendown pianos.

Iconic and super cool, this album epitomises a whole genre. Tracks are mainly upbeat RnR pop with a smattering of slower tracks that later characterised Elvis's songwriting. Intelligent lyrics and inspired keyboard from Nieve.

Vibrant 90's sound. Pleasant brit rock/pop with a cool image. I'm liking a lot of the sounds on this album tbh so it's one for me.

Not quite sure what's going on with the reviews and whether or not this is in the 1001 at all but I quite enjoyed it. I initially took one look at the album cover and groaned but there are a few tracks i've heard before and it actually helps knowing nothing about them or the genre. But you need to be in the mood for loud music........

Live Albums: I've not been a lover of live albums as to me they're kinda like a cheap option (saves on studio time). Minutes of audience clapping too is a drag. There are some great artists in this category and it's a shame as there are a great many good songs not given their due. Non-English lyrics: I also think you don't necessarily need to understand the words to a song but in the case of Brel (who was primarily known for his lyrics) again it's a shame. The most you can hope for is to appreciate the tune, passion and singing ability. Maybe just the vibe of the genre? Nice to have in the background....

Came across this before on another chart. It's pretty highly regarded and plays well- soothing and transporting so it's mood music. You don't need to know what they're singing about. In fact that helps to concentrate on the music. Highly accomplished ensemble - smooth and co-ordinated and although this grates on some people it really hits the spot with me. Superb.

Now we're cooking. Quite simply one of the greatest albums ever produced. Transports you to another world and leaves you there. Totally unique when it was released (was it really that long ago?) I have never stopped playing this album. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

I'm suprised this is on here! A perfect slice of 80s pop selling the dream of dusky sunsets in tropical islands with beautiful people. It's difficult to listen to this as music rather than what it represents. I liked it at the time but can't help but compare it with other albums that are so much better. Why have a Warhol when you can have a Van Gogh?

Just like everyone says: Cydonia meets the Arctics. It's ok but feels too clinical and controlled which isn't suprising since it's a 'supergroup'.

The epitomy of 80's rock I kind of like it for nostalgia and because it's so safe. It reminds me of corny 80s 'coming-of-age' movies. Musically very accomplished, well produced and slick you can't fault it other than it's cliched and not your thing. Looking at the list of albums released at the same time it's sad to say they are ALL cheese......so sit back and clench.

Remarkable voice for a 19 year old. She is clean and clear cut with stark accompaniment on the guitar. It's maybe too clean for my liking and sounds more American folk (Appalachian in places?) to me but I'm no expert. In the 60's she was a BIG celebrity with Dylan and very influencial but she seems to have faded. All in all I'm grateful to have heard this but not a favourite.

Just for the one opening song this album gets 5 stars from me. Even now it's shocking and addictive. The rest is a odd collection of bluesy, rocky and honky-tonk delivered with skill and swagger. This is a major game player and I'm suprised it's not near the top in this chart?

"Days of speed and slow time Monday's Pissing down with rain on a boring Wednesday Watching the news and not eating your tea A freezing cold flat and damp on the walls I say that's entertainment, that's entertainment" One of the greatest songs from one of the greatest and sadly neglected bands. It's quintessential post-punk Britain with a nod to the Kinks. I grew up with this so I'm kinda biased. It encapsulates Britain late 70s-early 80s so it may not be your cup of tea but for me it's happy days. (btw: All Mod Cons is even better imo)

Wow this has a lot of hits in it. Really takes me back to school dances. Disco at it's finest courtesy of Nile Rodgers. 1001 albums could have a whole genre in his name (Chic has 2 albums as well). Amazing how many cultural references have spawned from this too - a lot of people unaware where they came from.

Liking the whole vibe- laid back and lyrical. I once listened to this over and over again on a long haul flight and it did the trick and even now her voice has an affect on me. KD is to Country that Nora Jones is to Jazz and it certainly fits the niche.

I like the vibe but it's a one-trick pony with no real variety. Madchester and the 90s, Britpop and Alt-rock etc were a great fun time and I'd have this on in the background but not really listen to any of them apart from the hits.

Odd album concept but the songs are certainly great. Some big hits too. 'I can't stop loving you' is one of the altime greats. Culturally this had a big impact too so it should get recognition for that if nothing else. The arrangements are a bit smaltzy by todays standards and not much piano either. A bit like a big band album rather than C&W.

Even I've heard of this one. Quite hypnotic and atmospheric. I like the sax above other jazz instruments and this doesn't disappoint. Don't find it too overwhelming either. Great record.

Gave his last album a low score as being derivative and repetitive but this is more like it. I like the self referential bits and the energy reminding me of Public enemy but with direct references to specific events. It's another world to me but I appreciate the vibe.

One of the bands I feel I missed out on at time. Generic to be sure but pleasant with some interesting added touches.

I wouldn't like to say I don't like this or even that it doesn't deserve it's place here only that it doesn't appeal to me as outstanding. There's other artists that did this genre I prefer. Having said all this it's pleasant enough as background filler.

Reading some of the other reviews I'm struck by how tastes differ and how being an originator matters little now. To me though this is a virtuoso performance that never ages and each listen reveals new nuances. Simply one of the best.

Seedy clubs in Leeds in the late 70's this is the sound of Soft Cell. Marc Almond is the perfect diva and has an operatic range that goes hand in hand with Dave Ball's sparce synth symphonies. Reading the reviews some people seem to miss the whole point of the exercise. This is sleaze and this is early Brit Synth where wannabe stars bought cheap Rolands and dreamed in their bedsits writing lyrics that reflected their angst lives. This is a classic.

This was the first album I bought and I still love it today. It's 110% full-on from the word go with orchestral rock-n-roll pop-driven tunes and not a quiet introspective moment in 4 sides. Jeff Lynne is a genius for arrangements and tunes and it flows along with a multitude of classical and electronic tricks. I can understand how some people can't stand the whole vibe but it's so hooked into my memories I can't but love it.

There's a lots of Celtic influences here by this time but I miss the raw passion and inventiveness in her early work. It's too assured and well produced with a host of 'guest appearances' from famous friends. It's like a cosy little club but there's no pressure. It's good but bland apart from This Woman's work.

Very well produced and assured. It's like the rockiest Queen song but a whole album of them. I know 7 Seas but none of the others....... I think I'd need to listen several times before I started to get into this. It's worth the effort so maybe I should?

Pleasant and inoffensive but nothing special or groundbreaking. It brings back pleasant memories of the early 90s. This is often included in best 'alternative', 'independant' or '90s' albums but it's sad that the height of the album is a cover that was only sewn on when it became a hit.

Absolutely loved the first album but this sounds like the same tunes with different words. Maybe you're supposed to see the songs as musical poems and the tunes don't matter, just the words? Then I read the reviews and even the high score reviews admit it's this way. It's pleasant, and there are high points but a lot of it can be left on in the background.

Cover songs done by an aged Country star. But done in a powerful way. Some work, some don't. And of course then there's Hurt....

Incredibly talented but underated singer/songwriter. Proof that you can appreciate something but not especially love it since I have to admit after a few numbers it starts to grate with it's NYC energy and vibrancy. Still, it's mood music and maybe on a sunny Spring day doing housework it would be good to have this on?

Don't know whether to laugh or cry at the irony since The Queen did in fact die last night. Methinks someone tinkered with the 'randomised generator' for this? I've always struggled to be over the moon with The Smiths and never got beyond the hits despite thinking there must be something i've missed somewhere- Marrs music and Morrisey's lyricism are epic but both are a bit grating after a bit. Still, I played this through again and increased the 'enjoyment factor' a tad but still never enough for me to put them on again.

Very late 70's in sound which seems to suit her voice this album seems to be more about Marianne than the music. She has an odd voice and has a magnetic personality. Try checking out her 60's songs on Spotify and it's shocking the contrast. The music is average but the lyrics and Marianne's voice and persona make this worth listening to. It's all about excess and self-destruction. BTW don't listen to 'Why'd ya do it ' with your mother in the room......

Another band I never had the inclination to explore and I'm here listening to this before Different Class which is not a good idea according to the reviews. 1/ yes it does sound like Bowie. 2/ yes it does sound jade and burnt out.......I like that. 3/ Is it neither good nor bad? To be honest 'average' Pulp is still better than a lot of bands. The lyrics are engaging and the music varied and interesting. So yes I guess I'm converted.

I know it's been hyped and over-celebrated and it's not entirely original but it's a breath of fresh air to me. This is exactly the kind of sound I like. Cool neat tunes in a 'back-to-basics' format. So assured and authentic. This is it.

Reading the reviews I found one negative comment- the others were OTT which is not what I remember. Still, let's give them a listen....... Certainly 80's pop and very well produced. Massive hits and intelligent lyrics. Some of these songs became anthems which presumably accounts for the popularity of this album. Perfect Pop.

Good initial response, I like the odd-randomness. It's quite ethereal and really hard to classify.

Well...........it's an icon. .......but is it any good? Very 80's The title track is an echo from the 'Love over Gold' vibe and the rest on this album is poppier and more accessible perhaps. I prefer the earlier albums but this is still epic. I have to give it 5 stars not because I like it the best but because I recognise how good it is.

Hugely enjoyable but basically vacuous since it's an album of samples and a disco beat. Appeals to Millennials who hark back to the old days....bless.

I'm like everyone else thinking this is a groovy chill piece of relaxation music. I don't think it's worthy of the 1001. But still nice.

Iconic. This was the beginning but really a continuation of the vibe that goes from the Kinks, The Who, The Jam and Squeeze to name a few. Quirk, fun and constantly re-inventing itself thanks to Damon's skill and inventiveness.

Wow. well I guess I'm not alone in having a deep personal attachment to this album. Takes popular music to another level. Perfect like Dark Side of the Moon and The Wall but this one has the edge.

This is a real Classic. Great Swampy sound all the way through and a couple of bangers. It's good to put on and let run.

It's a real 70's American vibe and I like it.

It's well arranged, produced, played and sung and is certainly in it's own niche. Stylised and theatrical which characterises all the artists featured. It doesn't deserve some of the bad reviews hurled at it considering some of the other stuff I've had to listen to but it does sound like film music and lacks a soul in my opinion. Maybe that's part of the package? It feels like musicians being paid to go through the motions. Very accomplished musicans but integrity goes a long way.

Athough it's 1992 it still sounds 80s which isn't so much a criticism but the fact it sounds like a lot of other equally great songstresses (a hint of Pat Benatar and even Kate Bush in there) detracts somewhat from the originality. Even so there's some nice songs on here and I found it easy to listen through.

Argh! I've just rediscovered this after 40 years. I bought this from the record stall at Wembley market but wasn't overly into it so consigned it to the back of the collection. Listening to it now I realise how wrong I was. Brass in Pocket is the big hit but my favourites now are: Kid, Stop your sobbing and Private Life (written by Chrissie and covered by Grace Jones). Can't stop playing it now.

Appreciate the vibe- very well produced and executed. It's really innovative and unique. Bjork is one of a kind. The only thing missing is actually liking the danged thing. Not sure what score to give it.

I know the hits and loved them then as now but the rest is bland and formulaic. If you can get your head around the stylised posturing and synth effects it was a great moment in pop music but that was as far as it went.

Generic and unoriginal but reading the reviews it was quite groundbreaking so maybe this paved the way? Even the biggest hit on this is a remake but having said that it's well produced and pleasant to listen to so there you go.

I like Blur. This is more of the same however more mature and perhaps with half an eye on the Gorillaz? What else is there to say.

Well this is a contrast..... A bit of C&W. I'm no expert but i'd say this is smooth and well produced. Quite assured and reading the Wiki Merle was no stranger to hardship or jail. I prefer the slower tracks- I like the older, slower Country best.

Talking Heads are........a difficult band. Intelligent pop that speaks to you but without round edges and without warmth. There's much to admire and nothing to love here? Still, this album is a treasure.

I preferred the more African beat tracks and overall it's good but not outstanding. Sort of World music with a Blues/Rock slant. Reading the Wiki I'm in support of these guys and their struggles. Well produced and professionally played.

I groaned when I saw this pop up but it's really not that bad. I think it's the hype that follows it that repels me. Tight and supremely produced with great musicianship. It's not just the big hits but also the other tracks too showing a variety and inventiveness that suprises me. In summary it's very impressive from one of the biggest bands ever. The only thing that stops me from playing this regularly is my reservations on their image. The music is epic though. It really is.

Modern African jazz. Good to listen to.

Maybe there's a tad too many albums by Declan on here? I count seven. There's some good tracks but does he straddle so many genres to qualify? I remember this one and liked the hits. He seemed to define intelligent New Wave cool that I was a bit too young to understand.

To be honest I put this on and it hit the spot on a rainy October morning. Blows the cobwebs and everything else away. It doesn't pretend to be anything other than it is.

It's a bit unfair to ask me to be objective since this is one of my all time favourite bands and albums. Annie and Dave. What a team! The greatest since Beauty and the Beast. I could listen to this all day. Perfect production and perfect New Wave Synth. And what a voice she has.

Hard to put it in words. Would have loved to have seen him live, I mean the bass and drums are absolutely spot on too but Jimi just had everything. I'm in pieces here can't cope. One of the greatest albums of any genre.

Very interesting- sounds like French North African blues. Easy to listen to, and to chill to. Nice rhythms. Shame this was his last album.

The Stones have always been the bad boys against the Beatles loveable mop-tops image. I'm finding i'm steering more to the dark side now......... This album is full-force and full of powerful hits, sneering lyrics, cold dark imagery. All these years later it can still evoke anger and controversy. The album begins with the newer progressive works and then finishes with the older style blue/pop numbers they were known for. This was a turning point.

I've been a bit spoilt recently with really great albums and although this is good it's in the 2nd division. Still, the tunes are all there with enough variety and skill to warrant inclusion.

I'm always cautious of post 2000 albums since I think there's a bias towards anything 'new'. This is ok, not groundbreaking mind, but ok. Nothing inventive, lots of ideas copied from others and no direction but well put together production-wise. Considering how many great albums aren't on this list it's a shame but since it's based on filling quotas of each genre rather than sheer quality there will be albums filling in the gaps.

I wanted something different and I got it. Although I'm not that ecstatic about what I got. This is proof that not everything that came out of the 60's was great. It's a bit average to be honest. I think Forever Changes was a lot better.

Uh? This is unusual? 1957? Should this be counted as 'Classical Music'? World Music? This guy is a legend even now. Weird to think he's Norah's dad. I'm listening to this with an incense burning and chilling. Beautiful music.

I like to think I like a lot of Rap but this just does nothing for me. Monotonous, drumbeat and occasional keyboard makes you concentrate on the lyrics but there's nothing of any interest. Day-to-day musings and worries of someone I have no interest in. I know it's not 'cool' to not like this but I don't like it. Leave it to the hipsters.

I thought 'Oh no not another Bjork album' but I like this. I've always thought I should like her- all the ingredients are there but never clicked. I like the capella slant though. Very well produced and executed.

It's like the most inoffensive tunes conjuring a strange suburban 70/80's world from my childhood with disturbing lyrics with often uncomfortable imagery and unbearable sadness. I've tried getting into these guys before but it's true their songs end up sounding very samey and bland. Maybe it's the lyrics that saves them? It hit me this morning in the right way in tune with my mood so maybe the breakthrough has been made? The state that I am in.

Elvis... There's some of his greatest songs here when he was still able to weave some kind of spell. It's always going to be about the man himself with his people around him. It's a very stylised 70's production as you might expect. No-one did it like the man.

This is why I keep going with this 1001. I've heard of Death in Vegas but never consciously listened to them. This is really where I'm at at the moment post-Covid with Putin threatening to bomb us and a worldwide financial crisis ongoing. Dark, gloomy, shoegaze and catchy.

Already one of my favourites. Best played with alcohol and incense. Would have loved to have been there........ This is 60's psychedelia at it's best and not to be confused with 70's Floyd which was incredible but not this. This is superb.

I've always liked these guys despite what everyone else says and it makes me happy. Not the most inventive, varied or original but they're good at what they set out to be and that's ok by me.

How have I come this far along in life without having heard of this guy or this album. It's the oddest thing I've ever heard. It's like Spanish trip hop with sampling and rhythms that go around and about. Not really tracks as such as it bleeds from one track to another. No real substance as it feels like pop music and certainly not punk rock. Not sure if it deserves one star or 5 stars.

Very interesting contrast in styles. The first half is ambient Krautrock which abruptly morphs into the German Rolling Stones. Very odd. The reviews seem to be equally polarised between 1s and 5s. I normally love these albums but this left me cold.

Big dose of nostalgia for me. These were a clean inoffensive jazzy pop band set up by record executives to be the new 'Monkeys'. A lot of hits on the album which mainly appealed to teens. Nick Heyward was the lead and wrote most of the songs and clearly a talented guy but the songs lack depth. It's pleasant and i've enjoyed listening to the songs I know but nothing beyond that.

They've been since denigrated but at the time they were the next 'big thing'. Maybe when someone is overplayed the songs lose their punch? I don't like the tendency to slag things off when at one time you were all over them so I will say I liked them at the time and still find the songs enjoyable. There's plenty of other bands that have come and gone in the last 20 years so why not? Maybe people gravitate to the newest trendy bauble. The songs sound quite dated now but at the time they were great. It shows if you can develop a 'sound' at the time people will latch onto it and you can be huge for a while.

I know little of rap but this is seriously engaging. I'd listened to it before for another 'Best Album' poll and it was lurking waiting for a relisten. Still disturbing and in your face. For me this is the best.

I found this hard to get through and skipped to other Metallica songs on other albums. Not sure what was revolutionary about this - they have 4 albums on this chart which makes me wonder what genres they all fall into. Maybe I need to spend more time with this on repeat mode?

One of my favourite albums already so I think you know what the score will be! This is dad rock and I stole it out of my dad's record collection..... These musicians were at the peak of their trade. It's a pleasure from start to finish. If some people want to pigeonhole this and close their ears that is their choice but this is pretty damned near perfect. Constantly changing and reinventing, never dull and played, produced and sang with a skill beyond 99% of todays wannabes. That slow building opening leading the the explosion of sound is like no other. It never lets up and stays with you for the rest of your life if you open your soul.

Well it's Rod Stewart innit?! One of the greatest voices and personas in Rock. I love early Rod (Maggie and Mandolin) but never listened to the Faces at all really but this is a good groove. I'm liking Ronnie Wood (who tries to sound like Dylan). It's good listening to be sure. Not superdooper but good.

I like Post-Rock. I like this. easy really. It's more jazzier and a bit jammier than other bands I like with whiffs of Can and Eno but it hold firm until the end.

Loretta's got a lovely voice and the band play very professionally. This plays along pleasantly enough: I'm finding even fillers like 'Tomorrow never comes' easy playing as a background sound. I'm happy I played this but the only reason was this poll. More educational than pleasurable and at 28 minutes it's not exactly value for money.......

Now this is better..... His voice is silky smooth really hits the spot this morning. In my view this is proper Frank before he morphed into an overblown husk. I love the feel for these 50's arrangements- the orchestration is lush.

Already one of my favourite albums and one of my favourite bands so this is going to be easy. When you've listened to something so many times you find it easy to envelope yourself in the mood and I can understand why some find the music an overly intense wall to immerse yourself in. It's worth the plunge though.

Well, at least they can't accuse the 1001 exec of being closed-minded. Indian raag music? This is basically Classical? Or is it 'World music'? Still, it's pretty chill and well played and produced. Considering this is 1967 it's pretty contemporary so who am I to judge?

So all the hipsters and metalheads aren't into the 60's vibe? Never mind. This is an oddity and fits into the Velvet Underground/Warhol scene with contributions from a number of them. It's true the production and arrangements are pretty insipid though- it would have been good to hear what Nico's idea for drums and guitars would have been like?

So 80's. Poppy 80s. Synths and drum beats. Cyndi is a force of nature- how can anyone dislike her? But it's good 80s as these were the happy bits I remember. These are catchy anthems.

At the time I really like this and although I get and agree the comments about the wannabe Jamaica gangsta pose are a put off there's still a few great tracks on here. The style is pretty light and breezy and easy to listen to. Not really Reggae but a smorgasbord of things he's thrown in there.

There's a real Pixies feel to this and I really like it. The guy's really talented and there's a variety to this too that makes it worth listening the whole way through.

Love it. Ambient and Orchestral and plain odd I found it a joy to listen to. For every hater out there there is a lover.

A band I'd tried getting into on the premise I was missing something. Conjures memories of the 80's and John Hughes movies but there's a lot more going on behind the facade. The hits are a real treat but the rest is a bit hit and miss as you'd expect. All in all this is high-end 80's New Wave.

Very relaxing and chill. I'm finding I like this sort of thing more and more in today's toxic world.

Clean, crisp and well engineered. Lots of collaborators and nice tunes. The rapping's clear but I just can't buy it fromthis guy. He's too squeaky to be down in the gutter shooting from the hip. Like the Wiki says: "West was raised in a middle-class environment". It's like some guy in Beverley Hills rapping about life in the gutter. He's far too intelligent and it shows. He should have been a reality star not a rapper.

This is steady, tuneful and jazzy. Good to listen to for chilling. Not outstanding but still pretty good.

One of the few albums in history to transcend it's own genre. This is beyond it's time. So good in so many ways it's not just Hayes but the producers and arrangers that seemed to hit the right spot at the right time. Even the cover is a bold statement. Love it.

This is super high grade Indie. Intelligent catchy quirky tunes. There's a lot of these bands popped up at the time but this is a standout moment.

Ok so it's Queen and I love Queen but I've not really concentrated on their early stuff much apart from the hits. It's flamboyant and Glam and theatrical paving the way for A Night at the Opera but there's not much cohesion- it's a bit bitty if you know what I mean?

This takes me back- stylised glammy, bluesey rock. It's good and easy to listen to. This kind of this never seems to date.

Not the sort of thing I listen to but I liked this. Tunes interesting and rapping kinda low key and brutal. It reminds me of a mix of a few other styles I like (Fugees and funnily enough Eminem). All in all it's good to listen to. I may never listen to it again but who knows?

This was when I liked them. More New Wave than Gothpop. And before Smith eliminated all opposition.

Good old fashioned 80's Heavy Metal. Nothing too deep or meaningful here but it's fun.

This is Madonna being more introspective and sensitive. Still very 80's and is ok as it goes but a bit bland. No real cutting edge but then it is pop.

I like it. Unashamedly heavy and extreme. With some added authentic ethnic touches which made it stand out. Otherwise they sound just like 000's of other bands like this. I've no idea what genre this is? nu metal, Death metal? thrash? Heavy? One other reviewer commented this was a great album until the howling began! Having said that I enjoyed listening to this.

I thought I'd already reviewed this album and tracked back to discover I'd had Back in Black. Different vocalist it's true but sounds the same so I'm a bit mystified why we have 2 almost identical albums? I gave the last one a 3.

Jazzy, discordant and moody I can understand why some can't stomach it but it's right down my street. Reminds me in places of Aladdin Sane. A fitting finale I think.

I love New Wave. Some interesting sounds here. Synth, energy and passion.

I grew up with people playing Reggae out of the open windows in Summer and it always put me in a chill mood. This hasn't got all the hits which is good since you get to hear the album fillers.

What can I say that hasn't already been said? I needed this after many days thinking up positive things to say about albums with 2-3 good tracks and obscure World music I know I should appreciate. This is so good it makes me cry. In another 50 years this album will still be adored.

It's easy to look back now and dismiss but this was and still is an incredible achievement. There's a few weaker tracks but this album contains some real outstanding music that was very successful. And yes, godammit I enjoyed listening to them!

Well, here's a thing. I'm suprised at how negative everyone is in the reviews. Yes it's not entirely original and doesn't follow traditional definitions of a cohesive album with tracks but it's inventive and fresh and precisely what I enjoy listening to. People are giving '1's for no more reason that 'it's not for me' so I'm going to give this a '5' for precisely the same reason in reverse.

They've grown on me recently and I'm beginning to see difference in their tracks I didn't see before. Really enjoyed this.

This consistently appears in 'best of' lists but I just don't see how it rises above the many other psychadelic 60s albums. It's good enough, but pedestrian.

This is unpleasant, talentless and offensive. I love it. I can't say I like John Lydon but he has always been outspoken and this is fairly enjoyable if you like Pistols and Punk/New wave but i'm more interested in how unpopular this is to reviewers. It's from 1978 riding on the back of Punk so it's what I would expect it to be but the reviewers seem to want to compare it with serious music.

I like Ray but I don't like the Big Band. His genius sure shines through the brash tinny horns. Shame really they ruin what could have been a gem purely because this is what respectable America wanted.

I like her voice and I like her style. It's like one continuous stream of consciousness road trip without hooks or choruses. Quite jazzy which is a departure from her previous folksy origins. There is only one Joni.

It's sad how deeply unpopular this style of music has become. Theatrical, overblown and orchestral this is a real niche vibe: Weill, Brel, Walker through to Ute Lemper and the Divine Comedy. I can normally manage a song or two before switching to something less intense. It's good and accomplished (well sung and produced) but lacks empathy.

Nice clear Country. Crisp vocals and guitar.

This is the style of rap I like but I can't say I can differentiate between say Public Enemy and these guys although I do like Method man as well. Still, it deserves respect and it's fun to listen to. Always interesting and never boring.