315
Albums Rated
3.26
Average Rating
29%
Complete
774 albums remaining
Rating Distribution
Rating Timeline
Taste Profile
1960s
Favorite Decade
Psychedelic-rock
Favorite Genre
US
Top Origin
Wordsmith
Rater Style ?
26
5-Star Albums
10
1-Star Albums
Breakdown
By Genre
By Decade
By Origin
Albums
You Love More Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Fear and Whiskey
Mekons
|
5 | 2.6 | +2.4 |
|
Deserter's Songs
Mercury Rev
|
5 | 3.02 | +1.98 |
|
Armed Forces
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
|
5 | 3.09 | +1.91 |
|
Here Are the Sonics
The Sonics
|
5 | 3.16 | +1.84 |
|
Virgin Suicides
Air
|
5 | 3.24 | +1.76 |
|
B-52's
The B-52's
|
5 | 3.29 | +1.71 |
|
Songs Of Leonard Cohen
Leonard Cohen
|
5 | 3.38 | +1.62 |
|
Bat Out Of Hell
Meat Loaf
|
5 | 3.45 | +1.55 |
|
Never Mind The Bollocks, Here’s The Sex Pistols
Sex Pistols
|
5 | 3.46 | +1.54 |
|
Green
R.E.M.
|
5 | 3.48 | +1.52 |
You Love Less Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Kid A
Radiohead
|
1 | 3.71 | -2.71 |
|
Stankonia
OutKast
|
1 | 3.55 | -2.55 |
|
Cloud Nine
The Temptations
|
1 | 3.41 | -2.41 |
|
Dirty
Sonic Youth
|
1 | 3.11 | -2.11 |
|
Yank Crime
Drive Like Jehu
|
1 | 2.7 | -1.7 |
|
All Hope Is Gone
Slipknot
|
1 | 2.7 | -1.7 |
|
Cee-Lo Green... Is The Soul Machine
Cee Lo Green
|
1 | 2.66 | -1.66 |
|
Kenza
Khaled
|
1 | 2.58 | -1.58 |
|
Tusk
Fleetwood Mac
|
2 | 3.46 | -1.46 |
|
25
Adele
|
2 | 3.36 | -1.36 |
Artists
Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Beatles | 4 | 5 |
| The Doors | 2 | 5 |
| Jimi Hendrix | 2 | 5 |
| R.E.M. | 2 | 5 |
| Bob Dylan | 3 | 4.33 |
Controversial
| Artist | Ratings |
|---|---|
| Radiohead | 4, 1, 4, 3 |
5-Star Albums (26)
View Album Wall
Popular Reviews
Metallica
2/5
So much Metallica.
So very much of the muchness.
I can handle them in small doses. This is a massive overdose with a symphony playing in the background.
12 likes
The Beau Brummels
2/5
I am listening to this as I write the review...not enjoying this and it's only 29 minutes long...
I prefer Billy Joel's nod to Beau Brummel and it's only a one liner.
This is just feels like country-psychedelia with a lot of nonsensical trippy and yet dull lyrics. I mean, Magic Hollow is embarassing. I am saying 2 stars but let's say 1.5
2 likes
Jamiroquai
2/5
Musically I thought it was ok, tolerable...lyrically etc. I kinda felt, this guy sounds like a douchenozzle high on his own supply. Then I looked up mr. Jaykay and found the internet seemed to agree with this assessment. It is rare and lofty air when you can transmit your assholishness through the medium, so for that he gets two stars.
1 likes
Mekons
5/5
I knew nothing of this album...or band...went in cold. And... I think I reaaaaaally like this. Added the whole album to my playlist. A weird mix of British Punk and folk/country meets a early David Lynch film?
I don't know...but I liked it. saying 4.5 but giving it 5 stars.
1 likes
1-Star Albums (10)
All Ratings
The Smashing Pumpkins
4/5
Air
5/5
This album alone makes me glad I am trying this 1000 albums thing
Dire Straits
3/5
Several classic tracks, can even hear some of the stylings that would show up in The Princess Bride. And Brothers in Arms, just a great tune, also used to great effect in the episode "Two Cathedrals" in The West Wing.
Title track far surpasses those that were the big hits. And an early jump into computer animation on Money For Nothing and Sting's I want My MTV are still iconic albeit dated.
Curtis Mayfield
3/5
Billy Jack and Blue Monday people were the stand outs here for me
Adele
2/5
Amazing voice but not really my thing. Obviously have heard Hello a million times, everywhere...but liked Send My Love and Million Years Ago more.
Paul adds:
Great voice, but there's a sameness about the songs that makes it feel tedious by the end.
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
5/5
Paul says:
I just don't know where to begin. One of my favourite Elvis albums, with three of my favourite Elvis songs: Accidents Will Happen and What's so Funny (yeah, I know it's a Nick Lowe tune, but like Jeff Buckley singing Hallelujah, it's become the definitive version) and Oliver's Army. Steve Nieve became his George Martin and made Elvis's songs into post-punk treasures.
Hugh Masekela
3/5
I am going middle of the road on this (I'd say3.5 but stuck with whole numbers); love a couple of tracks for sure, and I imagine hearing a lot of this live would up the score but there are a few that stick around for too long for my tastes and then there are some that are amazing, succinct and just perfect listening. Still glad to have found tracks like Inner Crisis, Blues for Huey. Part of a Whole and Maesha are all on my recommend list.
Drive Like Jehu
1/5
Not for me. There were a couple of moments but they were fleeting. They were a band I completely missed the first time around, but this time I wasn’t so lucky.
Motörhead
3/5
A big ol' loud album for a Thursday morning. Not sure the Deluxe version is needed but how can you not enjoy Lemmy and Ace of Spades?
Michael Kiwanuka
4/5
Not the album I expected from the cover, but got a couple of tracks I quite liked on there:
I've Been Dazed, Living in Denial, Interlude (loving the people) and Solid Ground were all tracks that stood out for me.
Light, and Solid Ground both reminded more of folksy type tunes from the 70s that say, 2019.
Randy Newman
3/5
I Liked it, I know...I know... but I have a weird liking for Randy Newman but it is always better when someone covers his work...but he writes some great songs.
Common
2/5
The Temptations
1/5
I was, to put it mildly, very disappointed in this album, was expecting something else I guess and this...was not it. And that version of Grapevine, a tuna casserole of a song.
Nine Inch Nails
4/5
Hey, this one I have heard all the way through, multiple times... and no sense not doing it again! Think back to the first time you heard this and think, Oscar winner working with Pixar.
Sleater-Kinney
3/5
Queen
4/5
I mean... you know, named after a Marx Brothers Film...one of my faves and the album is no slouch either.
Fleetwood Mac
2/5
Living Colour
2/5
The Avalanches
3/5
Middle ground on this one, interesting work, but is it one I would sit back and revisit on my own otherwise? Unlikely...although I liked the ETOH track and the first two tracks - title track Since I Left you and Stay Another Season.
The Go-Go's
3/5
Oasis
3/5
I remember this being released, fairly sure it was played many times where I worked but a good chunk of this still seemed unfamiliar. Supersonic was played everywhere and maybe, because of that, was one of my least favourites on here. Shakermaker and Married With Children are ones I would come back to.
Leftfield
2/5
I actually liked a few tracks, especially first couple but then it sort of fell apart for me and became a bit of a slog.
The White Stripes
4/5
Most of this I quite liked. Especially Union Forever and We're Going to be friends but really disliked Aluminum.
David Bowie
4/5
It's Bowie! - First in I am sure a list of. Didn't really care for the cover of Across The Universe, Young Americans and Fame are just standard classics now but I like Win quite a lot as well.
Spiritualized
3/5
Marilyn Manson
3/5
Wasn't ecstatic to see this album, but always liked Beautiful People. There were a couple of other good tracks that I liked as well...but it kept going it seemed a little like an endless slog by last 3 tracks.
Nina Simone
4/5
Overall I liked this, but honestly I am shocked that a) Nina Simone has only one album in the top 1000, and b) that album is not Pastel Blues. I mean, if only for Sinnerman....or Strange Fruit.
I think there are a few albums could be cut from the list and make for this and Pastel Blues.
Both albums, recorded in the 60s still resonate and sound fresh today.
Cypress Hill
3/5
Pretty sure I would have had very little of good to say about this when it was first released. I can say in my defence, I would not have understood a thing about the album, or where it came from, but looking back and listening to it now just makes me realize musically how out of touch I was.
The Birthday Party
3/5
Interesting but not my thing...some solid music but this would not be replayed by me anyday soon. But this is exactly the kind of album/education I expected to receive as I go through this list. Nick Cave is much older than I realized and his early efforts are completely unknown to me.
Led Zeppelin
3/5
This sort of reinforces my point of the double album...(a few exceptions) but usually an amazing album and in this case I think 3 sides back in the day, but oddly, for me, the first album, first side is a slog, and then it gets better and better before winding down a bit again.
Pixies
3/5
It's not Doolittle. There was a lot to like but The Happening...that just feels like another seed towards Kim Deal leaving the band
Nico
3/5
Nico was a fascinating mess of a person who would not fit with todays world. Don't share her views...she died in a sad and depressing manner...but...she was not right about one thing. That flute does not belong on this album.
And if she had been able to get Maureen Tucker on drums for a couple of tracks this album might hold up more as a listening experience and less as a time piece. However, Chelsea Girls, Wrap Your Troubles in Dreams and These Days still end up on my list that listen and revisit some days.
Waylon Jennings
2/5
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
4/5
Enjoyed this much more thoroughly than The Happy Birthday early days...From the first track was more into this.
Stephen Stills
2/5
There were a couple of tracks I didn't mind but overall a long trek...a single album would have sufficed for me...it wasn't bad, it wasn't great...reminded me a lot of CSNY, without the extra initials.
Massive Attack
2/5
Sort of on the fence this one, wasn't against it, but wouldn't revisit.
T. Rex
4/5
I liked it, an album that feels like The Beatles meet Bowie which is a pretty good mix. Features the classic Bang a Gong but other tracks like Mambo Sun, Monolith and then Cosmic Dancer that just linger in my noggin.
Beastie Boys
3/5
Prince
4/5
This is one of those things that was always there... never considered myself a Prince fan and yet lots of tracks have wheedled into my life.
And those first three, come on...1999, Little Red Corvette and Delirious (which I only recalled from a Cheech and Chong film) are all classics.
so maybe I am just an avid listener if not a fan.
Big Black
3/5
Never heard of this album or band before...but man there are some crazy tracks here...If I ever had a budget could see using some of these in a film. Fists of Love and Kerosene being two off the top of my head.
Richard Hawley
4/5
Really liked this album ...from Title track, to Hotel Room, The Ocean, Tonight and Last Orders...A couple of these tracks feel throwback enough that Tarantino would try to hip them up in Pulp Fiction 2: The Pulpening
Soundgarden
4/5
Damn, this album holds up...honestly didn't think it would but still pretty amazing.
The Prodigy
3/5
Never thought of myself as someone who liked Prodigy and yet I remember listening to several of these tracks fairly often in the 90s and still liked them today...so going middle of the road as there were a few here that went on forever like Narayan but Firestarter, Smack My Bitch Up, Diesel, Climbatize and Breathe are all solid tracks. I would go 3.5 but this is solid stars and 4 seems a little too strong for me
Youssou N'Dour
3/5
Giving this a fairly safe 3 stars and thought it would be great as bkg music in a film but as for me listening to it over and over, unlikely.
Ice Cube
3/5
The Verve
3/5
The Lemonheads
4/5
This is something I will be listening to again, adding to my collection. I knew a couple of tracks, most obviously the cover of Mrs. Robinson which apparently wasn't even on the original release. Did not know Julianna Hatfield was part of this as well. Always loved the album Become What You Are by her...so this is just a nice add on.
Jamiroquai
2/5
Musically I thought it was ok, tolerable...lyrically etc. I kinda felt, this guy sounds like a douchenozzle high on his own supply. Then I looked up mr. Jaykay and found the internet seemed to agree with this assessment. It is rare and lofty air when you can transmit your assholishness through the medium, so for that he gets two stars.
Beth Orton
3/5
Light Cranberries, nice, melodic and great background music to just let time pass. This sounds like a bit backhanded compliment but it isn't meant to be
Kraftwerk
3/5
I am really torn on this... so influential, and for short periods, amazing, but phew, listening to it straight through was kinda tough... so going middle of the road on the score with a 3.
Super Furry Animals
3/5
A strong start, some good tracks, but a couple overstay their welcome...however, loved, loved Something 4 the weekend, although it reminds me of something I can't put my finger on...I want to say Polyphonic Spree's Light and Day, which came 8 year later so maybe they heard this track.
Beatles
5/5
I mean...it's Revolver. Possibly my favourite of all The Beatles Work. Although I do endlessly love Abbey Road Medley.
Bruce Springsteen
4/5
This...was shocking to me.
So good...really expected it to not be my kind of listen.
But definitely was, and will be again at some point.
AC/DC
3/5
Keith Jarrett
3/5
I listened to it, I liked it...but I think I like the story behind the work more than the performance itself?
k.d. lang
3/5
Another one I would have completely ignored when it came out. Again, not exactly my thing but overall I liked it, like torch songs at a bar...not sure I would be rushing back but this seems to be filled with the kind of songs that would be used in films and yet not seeing any films listed on Wiki for it.
Alanis Morissette
3/5
Second Canadian singer in 2 days which is nice, and this was an album that was everywhere when it came out.
Listening to it now, not sure if it's familiarity but from my viewpoint it still holds up really well. Not my go to for listening but massively influential and I get why it's on the list.
Eagles
2/5
A couple of noteworthy tracks kick this album off big time and then, there's a sameness to it all that makes this a bit of a slog.
Hole
2/5
I always preferred Live Through This and still have it on CD, this one, not so much but Celebrity Skin is a good track
Maxwell
2/5
Maybe it's because so much time has passed, but a lot of this now sounds like a parody of the thing it most likely originated. I liked the opening track or two but also became a lot of the same thing over time to me.
The Flaming Lips
3/5
I like a lot of The Flaming Lips but I always find it is selective listening. I usually don't want to listen to the whole album all in one go. Race for the Prize opens the album strongly but it's awhile before I get one of their tracks that I have always liked, Waitin' For A Superman.
The Mars Volta
3/5
I know of Mars Volta, gun to my head, can't name a thing of theirs. So when I saw prog rock and concept album was fairly excited. In the end, not something I am going to be rushing back to, interesting, but not Yes or King Crimson...This might have hit me differently if I heard it in my teens but now. not so much.
Beastie Boys
4/5
Every time I hear this album it takes me back to grade 10, Environmental science class and a guy who brought his brother's tape in and would sing along to it. Never heard anything like it before, left a huge impression on me. And so many classic tracks on this.
Tom Waits
4/5
The first time I heard I don't Wanna Grow up, loved that track then I saw the video and was sold. Tom Waits may not have that conventional voice but he is the guy who makes every weird note just a little more awesome, every word, and oddity is his own thing. I don't have anyone to really compare him to...but awesome album.
Creedence Clearwater Revival
4/5
Imagine being able to release three albums in one year, and on one album you have Bad Moon Rising and Green River and you still had hit singles on the other 2 albums...hard to wrap your head around in todays music world. CCR is something you can just listen to... there's something about them that seems to hit the right mood somehow every time, happy, sad, angry, the songs seem to work regardless.
Eurythmics
3/5
A couple of classic tracks but a little inconsistent. Still Annie Lennox's voice is one of my favourite ones out there.
The Kinks
4/5
The weirdest damn cheery album I have heard in awhile.
Dennis Wilson
4/5
Did not know about this album, quite liked it and will be giving it a second listen. A little darker, Beach Boys comes through a little bit at parts but a good listen.
Van Halen
4/5
An iconic album and one that was part of the soundtrack to the 80's. Even if I dismissed Hot For Teacher, Jump, and Panama, I'll Wait is still amazing and 3 stars on its own.
Sonic Youth
1/5
It was definitely in the timeline of what I should have been into but never really got into Sonic Youth. I pushed myself through the whole album and still think, just not for me.
The Black Crowes
4/5
My initial reaction was ugh, Black Crowes, then listening to the album and realizing how many tracks I recall, almost verbatim, hard to deny this album was played pretty much everywhere when it came out and some tracks stand the test of time it seems
OutKast
1/5
I tried...honestly I did, the one star I am giving goes to the mix and to me for being able to recall the Ms. Jackson track but overall this really didn't do a thing for me, at the time or now.
Massive Attack
3/5
I enjoyed this a lot more than Protection. So that's a thing...
Primal Scream
4/5
This just plays like a soundtrack in my head...after a few rough albums this one has several tracks added to my list not including Trainspotting which was already under the obvious soundtrack list...
T. Rex
3/5
The Rolling Stones
4/5
I am not a hug Stones fan, having said that...even if you remove the two tracks that have been burned into your existence, Brown Sugar and Wild Horses...You still have Can't You Hear Me Knocking (personal fave), Bitch, and Moonlight Mile. Impressive album.
3/5
A real bare bones garage band type feel to this...At one point it started to wear me down and then the last few tracks White Girl, When Oour Love Passed Out on the Couch and Year 1 got me back in.
Goldfrapp
3/5
Perfect put it on and listen while you work type music...or to just sort of zone out to.
Yes
4/5
I was surprised by this album several times thinking I only knew Owner of a Lonely Heart...and then Roundabout and Long Distance Runaround played... Noice. Turns out I am not as musically illiterate as I expected here.
OutKast
3/5
So long, so very long...but I enjoyed it more than Stankonia. But so long.
Dr. Dre
4/5
Deep Purple
3/5
PJ Harvey
2/5
I only know the hit by PJ Harvey and always liked it...and there were elements throughout that kind of grabbed me but for the most part it became background music... I don't think I am the audience for this one.
Herbie Hancock
4/5
I liked it...wasn't sure what to expect but reminded me of Vince Guaraldi and his music for Peanuts specials...turns out Hancock did Fat Albert specials. I learned a thing!
Bruce Springsteen
3/5
A lot of tracks here that are good listening but also not what I think of when The Boss. One of the few Bruce albums I already owned but this made me sit and listen to it which is what is needed for an album like this...
Billy Bragg
4/5
I can't put my finger on this album about why it seems like something so familiar but it does. Listened to the whole thing in one sitting and didn't have to pause it, or skip a track, etc. Added the first track to a playlist..."Greetings to the New Brunette".
Overall, just liked it.
Electric Light Orchestra
5/5
I have my own little system of rating out here...everyone gets one star anyway...but influence, innovation, and just pure entertainment or listening pleasure all come into play...and if an album has more than 3 tracks that I add to a playlist (or already had) it's going to end up in that rarified air of 5 stars. This is one of those albums.
Stevie Wonder
4/5
Stevie Wonder is just one of those musicians for me ... don't own a single album, know a pile of his music and it's almost like it has been just there always...so listening to some of these tracks, especially something like Living in the City and not sure why but hearing how relevant and strong that track is just shocked me. And Higher Ground is a classic.
The Young Rascals
2/5
I had higher expectations going into this album...expecting a poppy turned psychedelic album all mish mashed together...it is there...and Groovin' is one of those songs everyone knows, but overall not a lot for me to go back and revisit.
Traffic
2/5
I wanted to like this so much more...it sounds great but it just doesn't have anything that brings me back to listen to again.
The Who
4/5
I had never listened to this before...obviously have heard one or two of them before but context is everything.
Elliott Smith
4/5
Was really enjoying this album and kept thinking why don't I know this...I think it was because when I heard the name I thought he was a teen angst type singer songwriter... man, that was my bad preconception that kept me from listening to a really good album...
Skunk Anansie
2/5
I liked the first track but it never quite fell into place for me...
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
4/5
For Pump It Up and Radio, Radio alone I would be 4 stars, have always been on my playlists, I want to say 3.5 for the album but I can't so I rounded up to 4.
Bee Gees
3/5
I did not know this album, I did know "How can you mend a broken heart?" and there are a lot of strong harmonies here, but damn if Fallon and Timberlake don't mess with my head every time Barry and Robin solo.
4/5
From the art design, to the sound, and the cover of the Stones Satisfaction and the reminder of gut Feeling being used in Wes Anderson's (shocking!) The Life Aquatic, just a lot to enjoy here.
Aphex Twin
3/5
I was introduced to Aphex Twin back in the 90s through Videoflicks...always a good background soundtrack while working. I think it was all just a mish mash of tracks via the music drive we listened to as I can't recall every hearing a single album in its entirety.
Love
3/5
it's a great sounding album...and easy to listen to but sort of not quite in my re-visit range.
3/5
There's a lot here but being greedy I wanted more...Muse is always one of those interesting bands that I know their hits but have never sat and listened to a full album...bad on me.
Cee Lo Green
1/5
I found this very boring...sorry Cee-Lo... you were boring.
The White Stripes
4/5
First album that made me aware of White Stripes with Seven Nation Army and Hardest Button to Button but also quite liked In the Cold, Cold night.
Creedence Clearwater Revival
3/5
The soundtrack for an as-of-yet unwritten swamp film noir.
Pavement
3/5
Shuggie Otis
4/5
I knew nothing about this album, can not recall ever hearing the name Shuggie Otis...one would think I remember that name. Quite liked the title track Inspiration Information, Strawberry Letter 23 seemed vaguely familiar, Aht Uh Mi hed and Happy House were also ones that really snagged my attention.
Bad Brains
3/5
Really was not what I was expecting...like palatable cross between metal and punk...but was expecting a lot more raunchy underbelly punk...
Guided By Voices
3/5
Don't like this song? Don't worry a new one will be here in about a minute and a half...seriously, 28 songs, 41 minutes long...Brevity is the soul of Guided Voices it seems.
The Damned
3/5
After listening to the I Against I album of Bad Brains, this is what I had expected that to sound like, fast, solid, aggressive and pretty good.
Miles Davis
3/5
Put it on while working and was just something that zipped by...may have to revisit this one...but for now a 3.5.
The Pharcyde
3/5
This is a crazy fun little album...way out of my listening range back in 1992, but thoroughly enjoyed it...just goofy and fun.
The Adverts
3/5
The Pogues
4/5
Have always loved this album back to high school and using Worms in one our first videos...
ABBA
3/5
Grew up with the greatest hits albums in the basement. Listening to this was a surprise. Like the ABBA "sound" is there, but the hooks and lightness are not. Not sure if they knew it would be a final album for 35+ years but it feels like they knew they were done at that time.
Van Morrison
3/5
I have never been a huge fan of Van Morrison maybe because some of these tracks were just forced upon me through my surroundings...but Moondance always seems like a parody to me since it gets played so much...but overall the album is still pretty light and easy listening. It's not Van's fault...or maybe it is. Either way, I get it...solid album.
Frank Zappa
3/5
Peaches En Regalia alone gets 5 stars...I'd go 3.5 and almost 4 on this album but I am not sure I would come back and listen again so holding in the 3 star range.
Screaming Trees
4/5
A sound I am familiar with but surprising and not a band I recall but apparently was on the Singles soundtrack so must have heard them at one point. Quite liked it ...added a few tracks to my growing playlist - Sworn and Broken and Traveler were my personal picks
Fleet Foxes
4/5
This is another gem I doubt I would ever have heard of or found on my own...this is the kind of album you can put on in the background on a rainy day, read your book and just have this on a loop for a few hours....
David Bowie
3/5
Timed well enough as I am watching the original The Man Who Fell To Earth. Never heard of this album and quite liked a few tracks like Where Are Now and I'd Rather Be High
Radiohead
4/5
The only Radiohead album I own, so obviously not a hardcore fan but this was the one for me. The Hitchhiker's Guide nods don't hurt, including the title track, Paranoid Android. Then on its own Karma Police is one I have listened and added to on multiple playlists.
It never got better than this for me with them.
B.B. King
3/5
I grew up with the Blues Brothers and thought don't they just sound so damn good, and then you go back and listen to the originals, those that inspired them...Live, B.B. King...well, damn.
Hookworms
2/5
When it first started I thought there was a problem with the file, and then it got better, but not really. It's odd, I like some electronica type stuff, but this just didn't hit for me.
Ella Fitzgerald
4/5
I mean...
come on...
Classic songs by Ella Fitzgerald, easy to listen to over and over.
Simon & Garfunkel
4/5
Have always loved this album, even if they are on pot Mrs. Miller. I still love Bridge Over Troubled Water more but probably why I always listen to the greatest hits album as you get the best of both worlds.
Bookends, America, Old Friends, but Save the Life of My Child always seems abrupt...nothing wrong with it but it's like a sharp slap after the nice intro from the title track. And Voices of Old People (no pun intended) has not aged well as a thematic piece.
But America has always been one of those crazy magical tracks I listen to over and over and for that alone I would go 4 stars.
UB40
2/5
I want to say 2.5 /3 ish on this...
I have never been big on UB40...but always loved English Beat...maybe I am too frivolous for UB40 who always has something to say.
Syd Barrett
2/5
I was excited to hear this one, as it went on and on, that excitement faded. I liked the Octopus song though.
The Doors
5/5
Don't listen to my review on this one, I give all of their albums 5 stars pretty much. Even bad Doors (Soft Parade) is good for me...but this, and their first album basically kicks off and ends the history of the band perfectly. So many great tracks and several oddities that has made this one I listen to over and over.
Sisters Of Mercy
4/5
As I was listening I was like I know this...why do I know this?
And then "This Corrosion" hit and I looked it up, The World's End with Simon Pegg. I think I looked them up when the film came up...must have checked out a few tracks as it seemed very familiar but at the same time I know I didn't listen to this when it came out...which considering musically what I was into at the time is a tad surprising.
Richard Thompson
2/5
I tried, and it was nice, but not my thing...feels like music to listen to in a tent on a rainy camping trip before you think maybe I should burn my hand to feel alive.
Isaac Hayes
4/5
I have seen the film and always loved the theme song, but listening to the music on its own is an experience unto itself. Much love for this one.
My Bloody Valentine
2/5
Wikipedia says I am a fool for not having listened to this earlier in my life, perhaps that is correct, while it wasn't my cup of tea, a few elements lingered with me...but overall...just not cool enough to get this one.
The Fall
2/5
I really didn't get this one...I listened to it, lots of weird and oddness and some fun stuff...but ya...it seemed like a bit of a fever dream.
Meat Loaf
5/5
I don't know how to give this thing any then less than 5 stars...it's been there forever, still sounds great, is tied into countless teen memories... I can totally understand why some would say overwrought, cheesy etc...but part of that is what makes this great...it's operatic, over the top and memorable.
Röyksopp
3/5
Not something I would normally listen to, but you put it on in the background and it just blows by...
John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers
3/5
Didn't really have anything against it, always love that bluesy sound, but also wasn't the one I would come running back to.
Anita Baker
2/5
This may sound cruel but it sounds like the end of every early 80s rom-com credit. Another one of these albums that is just not my taste.
Jane's Addiction
4/5
Jane Says was a Camp Wahanowin staple for every Cafe D'Fwago performance. But honestly I have always listened to Ritual de lo Habitual a whole lot more.
The Doors
5/5
ya, 5 stars.
Done.
When you're a Doors fan, you're a doors fan for life - Bruce McCullouch
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ROJjDWQPSw4
The Who
4/5
Damn, I don't think I have ever listened to an album by the Who all the way straight through, this was impressive... Baba O'Reilly, Behind Blue Eyes, Won't Get Fooled Again and I always kinda like Getting in Tune ...I know most of these but I know I have never sat and listened to them like this. Impressive stuff.
Anthrax
2/5
Sarah Vaughan
3/5
This album captures live (as amply evidenced in Willow Weep For Me) what one expects from the mythical world of Chicago Jazz. I'm not sure I want to put this in constant rotation but it makes one wish they were there .
The Slits
3/5
I always like this sound, although it also brings to mind Gilda Radner playing Candy Slice, punk rocker... and I kinda weirdly love their cover of I Heard it Through the Grapevine.
Public Enemy
4/5
I completely ignored this album when it came out. I was fairly clueless when it came to the shifts in music happening, and the fact that it's 2022 and I am listening to it now shows not a lot has changed, I can still be fairly clueless when it comes to music. But listening to it, this album resonates over time...hasn't lost it's power but still, just too many Ya boyyyyeee's on several tracks... but nothing is perfect.
Kraftwerk
3/5
I am glad I listened to it, I think I kinda get it. I can hear how influential this is but this will not be in my regular rotation, but I did enjoy a large chunk of Autobahn but 22:47 ...you would think we should all like some slice of it.
Dusty Springfield
3/5
My introduction was the Pulp Fiction soundtrack back in the day, maybe I heard Dusty before...but no recollection of it and Son of a Preacher Man is just ingrained in me now, but I will always prefer the muppets cover of The Windmills of Your Mind
Iggy Pop
4/5
This is another 3.5 album for me that ends up with a 4 on here due to the rating system. The Passenger and Lust for Life are classics...Success is bit of fun too...Tonight is an interesting one as well
The United States Of America
4/5
I am going to say, shocked how much I enjoyed this. I'd say 3.5 stars but can't do half and 3 felt too low. So, Four stars... but know it's a 3.5.
Cheap Trick
4/5
The only way to listen to "I want you to want me", a great live album and one of my favourite Cheap Trick tunes of all time Surrender...but I still prefer the record version of that one.
Sinead O'Connor
4/5
I have owned this album on cassette and on CD...but honestly haven't listened to it in years. I always loved Lion and the Cobra and this follow up got overplayed (understandably) to her Prince cover Nothing Compares 2 U (before text speak, Prince was streets ahead) but listening to it again after all this time, that voice is a powerhouse, and looking back she was right to tear up that picture of the pope.
Fugazi
2/5
I tried on this one but it really wasn't hitting me until I got to Shut The Door, you know, the last song on the album...that one I really liked and added to a playlist earning it the 2 stars for me.
Paul Weller
3/5
Really got into Can You Heal Us - Holy Man, and Holy Man 2...the rest of the album isn't bad either ...
Faith No More
3/5
Epic is Epic, always has been...and the whole mess of styles going on here are interesting but my first hand knowledge of Faith No More comes from Bill and Ted's Bogus Journey...so you know...not the greatest sounding board for them here...
Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark
4/5
I was always a hardcore massive fan of OMD...how big you say? Well I'll tell ya...I owned the best of album. Nothing more true of a fan than one who owns the best of album right?
But seriously...Joan of Arc and Souvenir...great stuff...that with Enola Gay (not on this one sadly, but it is on the best of) are great tracks...also The Beginning and the End... almost makes you wistful for the 80's...but there is something about their sound that just grabs me. Part nostalgia and part ...sad joy.
Moby
4/5
Listened to this one over and over when it first came out. Still quite enjoy listening to it.
Creedence Clearwater Revival
4/5
All of these tracks on one album, astounding...and then there's Ooby Dooby,...well they can't all be gems...but even that is harmless enough. One of those rare kinds of albums where you just keep recognizing song after song.
Isaac Hayes
3/5
It's all cool and funky but with only 4 tracks over 45 minutes it is not a pop in and out of type listen...also, Hyperbolicsyllabicsesquedalymistic keeps making me think Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious...every time....
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
3/5
American Girl is just one of those classics...and the rest of the album is pretty solid too...Tom Petty is one of those guys, I know a lot of his work, but I don't think I have ever owned a single thing the man has put out...a little odd, but there it is.
Badly Drawn Boy
4/5
I got this album as a gift back in the day it came out, never heard of them...and then a couple of years later was shocked to hear the soundtrack for About a Boy was being composed by Badly Drawn Boy...and both are excellent.
The Beach Boys
5/5
I don't have to listen to this one yet again, but I will. 5 Stars.
Blindly,
Easily,
5 stars.
A must listen.
The Undertones
4/5
This is the kind of album I was expecting to find out here a little more, something that seems like I should know it, has a sound that kind of resonates with me and yet I am completely unaware of.
Iron Maiden
3/5
I grew up surrounded by jean jackets with Eddie patches of all sorts of variations...I would listen with my friends but Iron Maiden has never really been my thing...don't know why, they seem to have everything right there for me but for some reason it never really resonates with my. I get it I guess, but just not my jam.
Van Morrison
2/5
My takeaway is, listen to too much Van Morrison and it begins to have a bit of an overstaying sameness to it.
4/5
A classic.
One of those must listen to albums, and since you likely know several of the tracks, your work is half done!
Flamin' Groovies
2/5
Never heard of this before...this would be an amazing bar band to hear for sure, but as an overall revisiting listening experience...not so sure on that one. 2.5 starts (although it looks like 2)
The Velvet Underground
4/5
Yup...this is my thing, always loved this album. Nico and Velvet Underground... Sunday Morning, I'm Waiting For The Man, Venus in Furs and Heroin...and There She Goes Again, maybe's its the hippy trippy side of me but I love this album, from cover design, history, Nico being like a female Leonard Cohen, not sounding right but somehow is for these songs. (Sidenote: Massive Leonard Cohen fan so that's not a dig).
Bob Marley & The Wailers
3/5
I liked it. Not all of it...but I liked it. And while the only track I knew was No Woman, No Cry (not even the version I am familiar with), I quite liked Lively Up Yourself, natty Dread and Bend Down Low, just kind of a nice flow to the whole thing.
Amy Winehouse
4/5
After all the controversy and the headlines of this artist I never really paid attention to Amy Winehouse. Apparently this was a quote from her about this album... Some things on this album make me go to a little place that's fucking bitter. I've never heard the album from start to finish. I don't have it in my house. Well, the marketing was fucked, the promotion was terrible. Everything was a shambles. It's frustrating, because you work with so many idiots—but they're nice idiots. So you can't be like, "You're an idiot." They know that they're idiots".
Not sure if she is right here, because if this was an album made by idiots, those idiots did a pretty damn good job.
Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
4/5
One of those bands and albums I never listened to growing up intentionally and felt I rarely had to due to the amount of airplay they would get.... only a few I have never heard before and one, Teach Your Children, I did not care for, but the rest of this album is excellent.
and the first time I ever heard Our House was on Cheers... and still remember it to this day because of this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hkES9UuZyRo
Arcade Fire
5/5
This is going to be one of those rare times where I massively disagree with my my co-hort in my reviewing group here.
Have a totally different view than you Paul...absolutely love this album from the first moment I heard it. One of the few good things to come out of my time at CMN/CEN magazine...hearing this album for the first time.
PJ Harvey
3/5
A lot more raw than I was expecting, not a cheerful listen but still worthwhile...but not one I would be revisit time and time again, if only for my own mental well being.
Metallica
2/5
So much Metallica.
So very much of the muchness.
I can handle them in small doses. This is a massive overdose with a symphony playing in the background.
The Smiths
4/5
I am not sure this album would resonate like it did at the time and I am bringing my old biases to it, but was always a bit of a fan...and I still enjoy hearing it...almost all of it.
Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five
3/5
Solid and unknown to me, but tracks like Dreamin' had me scratching my head, but worth listening to were She's Fresh, It's Nasty using Tom Tom Club's Genius of Love which is just burned in my brain overtime, Scorpio and The Message....but Dreamin' and You Are seem to be from a different album.
Radiohead
1/5
I remember not being interested in this album when it came...sat down and put on the first track "Everything in It's Right Place" and thought what was wrong with me? AND then, I listened to the rest of the album...I stand by my original sentiment. I love OK Computer, but this...nope.
Brian Eno
2/5
I really wanted to like this more than I did...Did not like Here He Comes, but quite liked Energy Fools The Magician and King's Lead Hat, and back when you flipped an album the tonal change might have been more expected, or less abrupt...but it feels uneven all in a row like this...
Jimi Hendrix
5/5
I have heard sooooo much of this album over time and never listened to the whole thing at once. Quite a different experience... Crosstown Traffic, a classic. I thought I knew Voodoo Chile but not clocking in at this length of time.
Little Miss Strange is kind of a fun awesome song but sound like something that would have been from 10-15 years earlier.
You can reduce this whole thing to one song though and still get 5 stars, Hendrix's cover of Dylan's All Along the Watchtower is the kind of creation everyone would love to be able to put their name on.
Black Sabbath
3/5
I am a person who barely knows Black Sabbath, I know who they are, I heard them around me growing up...didn't own anything from them but when I hear Changes, I know the tune...
This is an album that starts big, stays big...and is one of the more fun listens to I have had recently. And then you read the wiki about the cocaine used and think... They were THAT functional on coke? Jeebus.
Barry Adamson
2/5
I don't hate this but don't particularly love it either...It feels like a disjointed soundtrack to a non-existant film...and then reading further about it, almost seems like that was the intent...so getting an extra star for succeeding in the goal...but I don't think I would love this movie either....
Supergrass
3/5
This is a weird one...it feels so familiar, it almost feels like so many brit songs from the 90s, a little blur, a little oasis sounding, but just...not...but also sounds like a fun album that would make these guys a great band to have playing live in a small venue.
The Kinks
3/5
I'm on the fence, middle of the road, kinda unsure on this one so straight up 2.5 stars...well 3... like I like the sound, I like the vibe...but ALMOST nothing reaaaaally grabs me as something to hold onto here and revisit. But how many times have I listened to Sunny Afternoon and it still just works. I also kinda' liked Party Line. The other tracks kinda blend into one another...I know, I'm a heathen.
Jacques Brel
2/5
It's live, It's french, it's apparently quite influential but aside from Amsterdam, even musically it kinda seems like a parody...maybe more of its time.
But I did like Amsterdam.
Tim Buckley
2/5
If I were to say to a musician for a film, give me that generic 60s folk rock sound, this is exactly it.
I should like it more than I do , but I kinda don't.
I did like Pleasant Street but the rest is just not landing with me.
John Grant
2/5
I don't hate this...but I don't love it. The lyrics are ok...the music seems, off...and it took a few songs for me to put my finger on this vibe...
Tracks like Sigourney Weaver, Silver Platter, Chicken Bones...and then it hit me, it's like when The Muppets cover a rock song...it's fine...but it's just off, you know? This guy is like a Muppet folk singer and even the spite or anger in some of the songs come off kind off weak.
Having said that, still love The Muppets.
Slipknot
1/5
Not for me. Simple as that. Tried it, Broccoli to my ears.
Talk Talk
2/5
Another album I really wanted to like more than I do... Life's What You Make It obviously a crowd pleaser and Time It's Time is interesting if not long...but overall this was really the listen I had hoped it would be... that's the problem of wanting more It's My Life type songs.
Rod Stewart
3/5
A little torn here, not the biggest Rod Stewart fan...but I do like Gasoline Alley, Lady Day...and the cover of Dylan's Only a Hobo but You're My Girl feels like it wants to be on a different album.
Stan Getz
3/5
There nothing here that stands out in the way of Oh I have heard this before, or oh how memorable...but it is insanely easy listening and great background comfort music while you work, relax or just want something nice to break up the sounds of life.
The Dictators
3/5
Have no idea about this early step in Punk, It's fun...but it's not quite there...like a high school band doing punk...rough and loud, with one off beat cover...but fun. 2.5 stars
Arrested Development
3/5
This an album I would have just not listened to back in 1991...and really no reason not to... A few stand out tracks for me, Mama's Always on Stage, Mr. Wendal, Dawn of the Dreads and Tennessee.
Milton Nascimento
3/5
I don't understand pretty much any of what I heard but the sound was nice, but again, double albums....long...so some stand outs and some not so much...
Q-Tip
2/5
This was not really for me, had a bit of a sameness to it...but when I see the praise for an album like this makes me feel like I just don't get it, and that's probably accurate.
The Smashing Pumpkins
3/5
I don't hate the Smashing Pumpkins but I was not the biggest supporter either...there are some great tracks and if this album was smushed down into one, or smashed down into one album if you will...This would be one of the greats of all times. (I know some already think that.)
Khaled
1/5
I tried, I really did...melha was probably the closest thing on here that I could handle. But the Imagine cover was like Gal Gadot all over again.
Not for me.
Foo Fighters
3/5
I have never been a huge Nirvana fan, I enjoyed and grew up with it, but was never my go to. When this came out I was surprised... and also didn't glom onto the Foo Fighters... I knew them and the first three tracks on this album cement how good it is to start...it loses me a little in the middle but the last two tracks which I have never heard brought me back into it. Overall, pretty damn good. 3.5 stars.
Sex Pistols
5/5
Toss out the stories, the legend, the abysmal behaviour and lifestyle of Rotten... This is a loud, fast, exciting album even but modern standards and is still the platinum standard for any aspiring punk band.
The Blue Nile
3/5
As I listened to this I thought it's good but something was nagging in the back of my brain and it was on "Heatwave" that it hit me, if the singer had more power and range like Peter Gabriel these songs would have a little less 'sameness' to them...like, all good, nice sound, and the lead singer's voice is nice but there seems to be no pushing past a same singing range.
The Offspring
4/5
I always enjoy this group, and yet...never bought a single thing they put out. In hindsight that is really bizarre...thought by Americana I would have at least had jumped on the bandwagon and bought that one...so maybe I am a closeted fan?
Sly & The Family Stone
4/5
Dammmmn Just...damn... Stand, I Want to Take you higher, Everyday people are just part of the modern language now...never heard a few of these tracks...the only one that doesn't quite work for me is Sex Machine as a bit repetitive and overly long but aside from that stupid complaint, this is a helluva album!
ZZ Top
3/5
La Grange is sooooo damn good that it accounts for most of these starts.
4/5
I like Dylan, but more for his songwriting...and the first half of the album was letting me down...and then the first track on Side two kicked in and I remembered the story about this...looked it up and that whole acoustic/electric set controversy.
I was all prepped with 2 stars but I am going 3.5 now after listening to the second half and a little bit of historical relevance affecting my wanton handing out of half stars.
Iggy Pop
4/5
Wow...How have I not listened to this album before! I know Nightclubbing via Trainspotting...but I did not know Iggy recorded China Girl before Bowie...I will always prefer Bowies version but this was pretty cool...the album is a really slick and almost modern surprise, holds up amazingly well.
ABBA
3/5
I heard this album endlessly growing up as my sister was a massive fan...and yet still only recall Knowing Me, Knowing You, Dancing Queen, and one I kinda like Money, Money, Money...so a pretty easy 3 stars right there.
Sonic Youth
3/5
This is another I thought I had probably heard before and even the bigger tracks like Kool were seemingly new to my dumb brain...I liked Kool, Tunic and My Friend Goo...but it is definitely a sound of that time...
Parliament
3/5
Would not be a go to album for me but fun to experience. P-Funk intro is pretty awesome and Give Up The Funk is a classic...so an easy 3 stars for me...
But on the same note, Handcuffs is a weird tune.
Nitin Sawhney
2/5
This one is just...fine...After ten minutes though it's mostly the same over and over....some nice sounds but doesn't make for a 59 minute listening experience. Would play great in the background of a coffee shop or bookstore...which probably sounds more insulting than I mean it to be.
Simon & Garfunkel
3/5
I am very thankful I wasn't a teenager when this came out...I would have been an insufferable hippy... but I do love Simon and Garfunkel...and some of these songs hold up so well to me...
Scarborough Fair, Homeward Bound, 59th Street Bridge, For Emily, but Silent Night is more like a timepiece ... some tracks are a little folksy too, Cloudy, is almost an afterthought of a song... but these two, when singing together...still have a magical sound together.
Gene Clark
2/5
After the first two tracks that have a countryish flair I was still onboard...and then the rest of the album comes along. One star each for Life's Greatest Fool and Silver Raven, the latter feeling like it is just waiting to be used in a film soundtrack somewhere...but the rest, just not quite my thing.
Red Hot Chili Peppers
4/5
I remember when this came out, the amount of air play...was never a big fan of the band but it's hard to deny the tunes on it...Around The World, Scar Tissue, Otherside, the title track...I mean, damn... that's impressive...a few skippable tracks here for me, but nice way to end up with Roadtrippin'. 3.5 stars
Throwing Muses
2/5
Not sure if I was expecting too much, but came away with too little. Really thought this was gonna by a 4-5 star for me...well, I tried...just not for me...maybe it's timing, who knows?
Crosby, Stills & Nash
3/5
This is a tough nut to crack for me...everything sounds good, Judy Blue Eyes and Teach Your Children... all good, but overall it's something I will hear on the radio again before I go searching out.
Björk
3/5
I had the Sugarcubes drummed into my brain from my film bud Brian Dwyer during high school...I can still recall his concert tee he loved with the band name on it. I however wasn't convinced. Then this album came along and I was a little more on board but it wasn't until Post I finally broke down and actually own anything Bjork , Post and Homogenic are the only two I actually owned, and listening to this all the way through, I am still ok with that.
Leonard Cohen
5/5
I think this might have been the first Leonard Cohen I bought...on tape...and just love this.
Death In Vegas
3/5
I ...I liked this I think. I put it on while working, stopped it several times to make sure I could really listen to it and it was hypnotic. Dirge, Death Threat and Flying the main tracks for me here. Solid 3 out of 5 and Dirge makes it onto my playlist.
Eels
3/5
I remember this album cover vividly... and yet, only one track really landed for me at the time. Novocaine for the Soul which had a lot of airplay to drive it into my brain, I quite liked Your Lucky Day In Hell and My Beloved Monster this time around though. Overall at least a three for me.
The Smiths
3/5
There is some great Smiths material, and the album cover is iconic of the time...but listening back on this, while the sound is nostalgic it's not the songs of theirs I revisit.
Scott Walker
2/5
I don't know this guy...at all. So I put on the first track, Jackie and liked it, reminded me the bastard child of Neil Diamond and Tom Jones...but as it went on, it began to feel like Jack Black would have a field day singing this album.
Joan Baez
3/5
This is the roughest type of Album to sit and evaluate, decades later...it's a voice of time and while Baez has rightfully earned her place in the pantheon of music, this is not my thing. It's so folksy, raw, earnest...and I feel like that is the music I devoured in my late teens but didn't come with me somehow.
Def Leppard
4/5
Never been a Def Leopard fan but everyone around me seems to have been. Never owned the shirt or a jean jacket with the back patch of the album cover...but I will be damned if I don't know pretty much every song on this album and that says something...
Jane Weaver
3/5
This one sort of blew by as I worked...had some faint glow of Metric to me, first/second album Metric. I wouldn't say I could pick anything out if you made me, but I also had no problem listening to it....going to try a second listen at least to see if anything sticks
The Beau Brummels
2/5
I am listening to this as I write the review...not enjoying this and it's only 29 minutes long...
I prefer Billy Joel's nod to Beau Brummel and it's only a one liner.
This is just feels like country-psychedelia with a lot of nonsensical trippy and yet dull lyrics. I mean, Magic Hollow is embarassing. I am saying 2 stars but let's say 1.5
Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
2/5
I will stick to the soundtrack of Oh Brother Where Art Thou, or even Steve Martin and the Steep Canyon Rangers... A few tracks are fun, Nashville Blues, etc but the album is waaaaaay too long and more for a hardcore fan of this genre (go figure) but if you cut the chatter before the songs you'd snip 20 minutes out of this sucker...I get it, you want that homey vibe but come on, it wears thin. Good and memorable always wins out over long and gradually tedious.
Janelle Monáe
3/5
Admittedly most of exposure to Janelle Monae is through films and seeing her on SNL ... and this is her debut album you say? Impressive. I liked Tightrope, although it reaaaaaly is bugging me as it sounds like a revamped Pharrell "Happy" track. "Faster" and "Cold War" are also pretty good. Overall, trois stars!
Robert Wyatt
3/5
I am having a tough time rating this one. It's interesting, but not one I really want to revisit ...experimental, wild, weird...and hypnotic... let's say straight down the middle, 2.5, a worthwhile listen.
Depeche Mode
3/5
So I will assume if Violator made this list, which I enjoy, (mainly for Personal Jesus and World in My Eyes), but surely that means Black Celebration is on this list as well?
The Prodigy
2/5
Small doses...great for movie trailers and action sequences and delusions of a Trainspotting lifestyle.
Jeff Beck
4/5
I know very little about Jeff Beck it seems.
This album was a real easy endeavour to listen to.
I mean Greensleeves and Old Man River, odd tracks that I wasn't expecting but there is nothing here that wasn't just enjoyable to listen to.
Aerosmith
3/5
First, not an Aerosmith fan. Just never was. Much like Def Leopard before with Hysteria.
And yet Aerosmith is just part of your upbringing in late 70s to 90s in some places. Back in the Saddle (How was this not used in Young Gun 2 in some way?), Rats in the Cellar, Nobody's Fault are all notable tracks for me. But not nearly as iconic for me as Hysteria was so going for a middle of the road 3 stars on this one.
Tina Turner
3/5
Growing up this was the first Tina Turner I was aware of. Didn't know her history, etc, but that voice...Private Dancer, What's Love Got To Do With it and Better Be Good To Me have earned their status, but there are tracks on here that feel like they belong in the background of some forgotten 80s cop show.
Show Some Respect feels like the alternate opening credits of Cagney & Lacey or something.
But Turner's voice and those three earlier tracks make this an easy 3 out of 5 for sure.
As for the versions of I Can't Stand the Rain, I am gonna say it, Ann Peebles version and the disco version more, and I feel like Let's Stay Together just hasn't aged well. Nothing against Turner's voice, just some of the instrumentals are...of their time.
The 13th Floor Elevators
3/5
I love, absolutely love the first track...You're gonna Miss Me. I also figured that since I don't really know them and love this song, that the rest wasn't going to be quite up there on the same bar. I was correct. Still, some good stuff and this classic track. 3 stars.
fIREHOSE
3/5
I don't know how to classify this one, alt-jazz-rock? Either way, surprised, unheard of for me, and liked it. Riddle of the 80s and Vastopol, What Gets Heard...just a fairly fun listen throughout. Just feels like someone you might have been lucky enough to hear live had you walked into the right bar at the right time in the early 90s.
David Holmes
2/5
I probably would have been pretty into this in the 90s, was a big fan of Soup Dragons and their Lovegod album but this didn't really click with me. The live recorded conversations got my attention but in the end left no real impression and did everyone do a version of James Bond type music in the 90s? (Propellerheads comes to mind) Maybe, sure feels like it. In the end, won't be a rush back to hear this one.
Arctic Monkeys
3/5
I was mixed on this.. although thought From the Ritz to the Rubble and Red Light Indicates Doors Are Secured were both pretty excellent songs.
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
4/5
Another one I cheerfully listen to, but, their debut album is the one I love. Could listen to Maps daily and still love that track. On this one, love Heads will Roll, Soft Shock, Dull Life but just find them enjoyable to listen.
Kate Bush
3/5
Everyone knows Running Up That Hill, and if they didn't they did during the Stranger Things resurgence.
I don't know what I expected but overall, a solid album overall but nothing stands out quite like that first track.
Elliott Smith
4/5
There are artists as you go through life you do not always give your due, this is one of them for me...Rose Parade and Between Bars were both added to the playlist off this one. I didn't love the whole album but there was nothing off kilter or bad here either...solid listen throughout.
Run-D.M.C.
4/5
I have a lot more appreciation for this album than I did in the time it was released. Walk This way was fun for me, but I had no idea Run DMC would end up affecting one of my favourite games to play SSX Tricky. Loved making that track play in the game. Great song too.
Most of these I don't know though and they are early and genre setting in a way...
My Adidas is timely, right Kanye?
3.5 stars but saying 4.
The Rolling Stones
3/5
I am what you might call a fairweather Stones fan at best...there are tracks I absolutely love but I have never owned a single album. Having said that, if I had to own one, this would probably be at the top of the list if only for Sympathy For the Devil...and then there is Street Fighting Man. Prodigal Son, Parachute Woman and Stray Cat Blues etc. are all solid listens but for me this clocks in around a 3 star review, I know, blasphemy, but doesn't that really fit with the Stones?
Bauhaus
4/5
It doesn't have Bela Lugosi's Dead on it, but I still enjoy it. Have never listened to the album in its entirety and it doesn't quite all gel for me but still liked most of it. I know it's gothish, but also strikes me like David Bowie made an album with The Doors after they finished Soft Parade.
Bon Jovi
3/5
This is a tough one for me. I grew up with it, it just devoured the airspace around me. But was just never a Bon Jovi fan. I have seen them live and live with one of their biggest fans...but again, not my thing. Still, hard to deny, You Give Love a Bad Name (the nerve to open it with just vocals before kicking into the track), Livin' On A Prayer, Wanted Dead Or Alive, I'd Die for You. This is one of the ultimate mid 80s albums to be fair, and I know most of it already...I just hold grudges I guess about being forced to hear it ad nauseam. Going middle of the road, again, grudgingly.
The B-52's
5/5
I really don't have to listen to this one again, but I will cheerfully. 5 starts. I owned it on cassette and then CD. Was introduced to them when I worked at the YMCA with Daffy and Zipper back in 1985 and loved it. It's fun, it's different, weird, and it's under 40 minutes.
Planet Claire, Dance this Mess Around, Rock Lobster, Lava are so repeatable for me, and just the title There's a Moon in the Sky (Called the Moon) makes me laugh. This is music that is hard to be depressed and listen to.
Bob Dylan
5/5
If you told me you don't like his voice, or you don't like his music, I'd get it...but man, this album...was everything I want to think the 60s was and wish we could here the impact of in todays terms.
Also, how perfect is that album cover? There's some moment of perfection captured in that image.
John Martyn
3/5
I have to admit this really didn't click with me overall. I didn't dislike it but feels like maybe if I had a beer in me, or hell, a beer in me and this guy was on stage I would have a lot more appreciation for it.
The Allman Brothers Band
3/5
It took me three kicks at the can on this one. Just would put it on, here that long rambling and think nope not in the mood for this...
But today I guess I was...and while I reaaaaaaally don't think Whipping Pole should be a (for me) tedious 23 minute opus, I liked almost all of the rest of this and even the In Memory of Elizabeth Reid one clocking in at 13 minutes and 4 second doesn't bother, in fact, I liked that one...
I just prefer my whipping post in short stints I suppose.
Aretha Franklin
5/5
This album just flies by, didn't even stop it when it restarted just so I could hear Chain of Fools a second time. Natural Woman, Groovin, People Get Ready (but not my favourite version) ...this album is top of the line.
The Stranglers
3/5
Not bad...not familiar...enjoyed it. Peaches was good, but really lliked Sometimes, Goodbye Toulouse and Down in the Sewers...weirdness and fun...but not high on my revisit list.
The Cramps
4/5
I have always liked The Cramps but probably not for the right reasons, Their artwork, weirdness and sense of humour...music comes fourth which is probably not the greatest compliment. But I enjoyed this album, Loved I Was a Teenage Werewolf and the cover of Fever both of which made my playlist and the rest of the album was a pretty solid listen through if just running a tad too long, a few less tracks could have made this a pretty stand out album...but 3.5 stars!
Miriam Makeba
3/5
I kinda enjoyed this.. the stands out were the Click Song, and Mbube and Naughty Little Flea. Just a really nice laid back listen for the most part.
Blur
3/5
I get this is the album for the breakthrough, and I was always aware of Girls & Boys (which gets a little grating to me) and Parklife which I like but it's their next album "The Great Escape" that does it for me.
Fun Lovin' Criminals
3/5
Wooooow completely forgot about these guys and totally enjoyed revisiting Scooby snacks. Definitely never listened to the full album and there was some good stuff here. I can't Get With That and Fun Lovin' Criminals ...but not a must listen to over and over for me.
Pink Floyd
5/5
There's no point pontificating on an album that has been dissected 9 ways to Sunday. Call it whatever you want, it's an album that sets a highwater mark and can be listened to as individual tracks but the entirety, under the influence or not, is an experience everytime.
Aerosmith
4/5
I know of this album, never listened to it all the way through, I know Walk This Way, Sweet Emotion (few songs have a better intro) and maybe a passing acquaintance with the title track. Liked Uncle Salty and was surprised by Big Ten Inch Record, all in all going 4 big ones on the Toys in the Attic.
John Coltrane
3/5
I hate to say this but not smart enough musically I feel to "get" this one. It works for me as great non-distracting sound in the background, but to sit and listen to it, makes me feel kind of dumb...not getting what is happening here and it is obviously influential.
So going very safe and middle of the road scoring on this.
Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band
1/5
Ok, I am struggling here. I just finished John Coltrane's album and thought I didn't get that. No, I get THAT album now...but this? No. It's like the worst elements of Frank Zappa and Tom Waits and none of the good stuff.
I am only five tracks in and really having a hard time with it.
And a track named Dachau?
A little unappealing without the brilliance to back up doing such a thing.
This is just not for me.
I tried.
Honest.
Frank Sinatra
3/5
I get it, nice album, nice voice, sounds lovely...but Frank was just a shitty person and makes you realize he doesn't represent a singly value of most of these songs.
Having said that, 2 a.m. at a bar in December with this playing is some great ambience.
But fuck Frank Sinatra.
5 stars for the musicians, songwriters and talent.
0 stars for Frank.
Average. 2.5.
Astrud Gilberto
3/5
Hey you want to rob a casino in the 60s? Have I got a soundtrack for you!
Weirdly, this is just a pleasant listen. Put it on, zone out, drink your coffee in that hipster cafe, work on your screenplay...
But I would have a hard time sitting and attending this as a show, concert, etc. But definitely pleasant sounding.
Although I prefer Petula Clark's Call Me.
Fiona Apple
4/5
I always forget I like Fiona Apple...never heard this album and there is a lot of goodness here. Shameika, Under the Table, the title track.
She has a rhythm and uses her voice like a percussive instrument and then the eclectic format of music around it is constantly changing and keeping my interest.
And there's a sense of humour to it that just doesn't get enough appreciation.
Jimi Hendrix
5/5
This is one of those rarities, a bonafide classic the moment it landed in stores. You start with Purple Haze, Manic Depression, Hey Joe, Wind Cries Mary, Fire, Foxey Lady (and it was spelt that way, hmmmm did not know that), Are you Experienced. Amazing stuff.
George Michael
4/5
I have an adverse reaction to George Michael and it's pure prejudice stemming from despising Wham in it's day. Then I put this album on and recall how much of this I know, and the man's voice. See! Being a jerk means you miss out on nice things. (And Wham wasn't that bad in retrospect...but still wasn't great, or even hinted at how successful GM would be).
Tito Puente
4/5
Noice...not exactly a great album for my current December weather and mood but it's enjoyable and I can see sitting on the deck (not dancing, sorry) with a cold drink and this just cheerfully on in the background. A fun listen, 3.5 stars!
Primal Scream
4/5
Movin' On Up and Loaded have always been on my playlists over the years but there's actually quite a lot here worth a second or third listen for me...so going to rarified air my friend with a 4 stars.
David Bowie
4/5
I know I shouldn't say this but between Black Sabbath's Vol.4 and Bowie here, cocaine is looking like not such a bad thing.
Aside from ruining your health and life and harming those around you, it does make for some pretty good albums if you are already pretty talented it seems.
Sonic Youth
3/5
Very mixed on this, quite liked Teenage Riot and Total Trash and the sound is right along the lines of where my taste sometimes go, but some of this experimental noise material doesn't land with me. 2.5 stars for me.
Deerhunter
3/5
I didn't hate this. I actually kinda like a couple of tracks. Especially Fountain Stairs which kind of reminded me of Wreckless Eric Whole Wide World in a way, not as good, but kinda struck that memory chord..
Radiohead
4/5
My second favourite, first being OK Computer.
I know...fucking tourist.
I like being a tourist, so screw you.
3.5 stars.
High and Dry, Fake Plastic Trees being obvious standouts but don't think I have listened to the full of this album since the 90s.
Beck
3/5
Didn't love it, didn't hate...pretty much right down the middle of the highway on this one. it's a tad depressing but so what, so is the world some days...but still gets a depressing 2.5 for middle of the roadness.
4/5
Never heard any of this before. Will be listening to it again. Really Liked: This is Love, This Mess We're in is creepy excellent, and One Line.
Solid and makes me realize I missed out on a lot having stopped after To Bring You My Love. Foolishness.
Beatles
5/5
I simply can't fathom myself not giving the Beatles less than 5 stars. That's just me.
13 songs in 30 minutes and 9 seconds. Not a single track over 3 minutes.
And when you are done, "You unplug and you run, run off stage."
The Velvet Underground
3/5
A little mixed on this one, Side one first few tracks start down a good road but there are a couple I can avoid. Candy Says, Pale Blue Eyes are both excellent but The Murder Mystery is that type of 60s track you hear and think it's almost a parody.
Right down the middle, 3 stars for me.
Bad Company
4/5
This is a bad ass debut album. Almost every track is solid...I could personally leave The Way I choose off of it, but aside from that a pretty straight forward rock and roll type album.
Madonna
3/5
Title track does all the heavy lifting here.
I get the relevance, but Madonna and Electronica just not my cups of tea.
I didn't hate it, just feel that others were a lot more instrumental in Electronica and Madonna came along and all these pop people were like ooooooh.
No sir, I won't have it!
But still, 3 stars, title track is pretty awesome.
Air
3/5
I quite enjoyed this and from the first track I thought, are these the people behind The Virgin Suicides soundtrack? They are...not as good as that for me, but maybe because I heard that first and have listened to it multiple times due to it being on this list, but a close second.
Going 3.5 stars out of 5 on this one.
Suede
3/5
I knew of Suede in their hey-day but unlike a lot of Brit music at the time this just didn't really land for me at the time and honestly, not a lot has changed. Not bad, not great, not my thing really...right down the middle. If I hear it again fine, but won't rush to put it on myself.
The only thing I did learn from this is before they made the big leagues Ricky Gervais was their manager briefly. I wonder whatever became of him?
Mekons
5/5
I knew nothing of this album...or band...went in cold. And... I think I reaaaaaally like this. Added the whole album to my playlist. A weird mix of British Punk and folk/country meets a early David Lynch film?
I don't know...but I liked it. saying 4.5 but giving it 5 stars.
Penguin Cafe Orchestra
3/5
Soundtrack for a film never made, or instrumental music meant to accompany a Snoopy and Woodstock B-story.
Nice, light listen.
Talking Heads
4/5
Big Fan, although my problem is I grew up with "Stop Making Sense" as my go to...
This is that kind of thing you wish there were more of, but had there been, perhaps it would be less special.
Dinosaur Jr.
3/5
Is it because I grew up through this period, because it was all around me in different form that I don't appreciate this album enough? Maybe. I don't know. I liked it, but middle of the road for me score wise.
Booker T. & The MG's
4/5
Awesomeness abounds from title track and onwards but surprised worst track to me was Twist and Shout. too much expectation.
Took me waaaay to long to figure out Rinky Dink was using the rift from Mickey and Sylvia's Love is Strange...just kept thinking, Dirty Dancing, I know it's in Dirty Dancing.
Yes
4/5
My knowledge on Yes is spotty at best. I remember Owner of A Lonely heart video freaking me out as a kid and loving it. I know "I've Seen All Good People" from this album and love it, but there is a lot more here and while it's not all for me and borders a little all over the place in a song aptly title "Perpetual Change" it never goes toooooo far. This album flew by though and was over before I knew it, would definitely revisit.
Pulp
4/5
I stopped listening for some reason after Different Class, and let's be honest, I only listened to Different Class. Not sure why...This is like Bowie done by Pulp...and I'm fine with that...I'm sure they would say that's mildly shitty, but it's high praise, indeed.
The Charlatans
3/5
This was one of those bands on the periphery of my listening...I knew just enough to know they existed, heard multiple times I should listen to them. I remember hearing "North Country Boy" and again, liked it, but the stand out on this one for me is "How High". They just got lost amongst a lot of higher profile bands, even before I clicked to listen briefly confused them with Good Charlotte.
Overall, good album though. 3.5 stars.
Kacey Musgraves
3/5
It's that kind of album...great production values and a talent with an amazing voice...but just not my thing. I can listen to it but it doesn't speak to me.
Roxy Music
3/5
Middle of the road on this one...I get that it's influential, and totally am into the sound of it but overall it isn't a revisit for me. It's weird, like it almost hits everything I am into but somehow, something is just a little off-kilter for me that didn't make it overall that memorable for me.
Jethro Tull
3/5
3.5 stars...mainly for Aqualung and Locomotive Breath...it's a lot of pan flute but it does make it stand out.
The Boo Radleys
3/5
Wasn't into it, wasn't into it, wasn't into it...wait, that's interesting...is it me or this not half bad, wait, it's getting pretty good.
Preferred walking the back half of this album to the front. Worked more for me as it went on. Solid 3 heading to 4 stars territory.
Adam & The Ants
3/5
I know very little about Adam & The Ants/ Adam Ants but had some high hopes here even though Goody Two Shoes is a little too much for me, I do love that Berundi Beat they seem to use, and there is some good stuff here but overall a bit of a disappointment for me.
I quite liked "Killer in the Home" but thought Jolly Roger was like high school musical and that "The Human Beings" lyrically is kind of, well, embarassing sounding but surrounded by solid music.
Overall, 2.5 starts out of 5 for me.
The Cure
2/5
I had to really try on this one, and that surprises me. I think this was toooo much Cure for me.
Lightning Bolt
1/5
Nope...an album I endured, not enjoyed.
Lambchop
4/5
Discoveries like this are the reason I am trying to work my way through the 1000 list...expose myself to different and unknown music for myself that is interesting. I wouldn't say I love this album but it was different, complicated and fascinating. Realllly liked the Petrified Forest track.
Echo And The Bunnymen
4/5
I am shocked how I didn't at any point in my life buy this album for myself and listen to it endlessly along side Depeche Mode and The Doors...maybe because I never got past the "D" section in the record store. But it was so close! One more letter man, just shuffle to your right and there's "E"...I mean, come on! Put in some effort.
William Orbit
3/5
So I worked away at clearing up paperwork and taxes, and this was just a nice backdrop to it... the album probably deserves better than taxes busy work though. Adding to my listen to it again list.
Beatles
5/5
The first full "grown up" vinyl ever given to me. Christmas from my Aunt.
To this day one of my favourites, doesn't hurt as a memory but a great album that never bores me.
That's an easy 5 stars.
And yes, I did listen to it again just for this, because again. Beatles, Abbey Road.
Talking Heads
4/5
I only really know Take Me To The River off this album and right there that's a track that gets me to 2-3 stars...and overall this is a good listen...so going 3.5 stars, but it looks like 4.
The Stone Roses
3/5
Really thought I knew this one better than I did, the only track that really triggered the member berries was Fools Gold. Great track but overall I liked but didn't love it and maybe that's why it didn't stick with me all these years.
Dexys Midnight Runners
3/5
I liked it... overall, truly...but had it not been for this list and Come on Eileen, I'm not sure most of us would know who this band.
Pixies
5/5
My favourite of the Pixies, hands down.
Listened to it again and again, and just for the list's sake, have it playing again, But Debaser, Wave of Mutilation, Here Comes Your Man, Monkey Gone to Heaven, La La Love You, Hey, and all the songs I didn't mention. 5 stars for me.
Leonard Cohen
4/5
My first Leonard Cohen album.
Bought it because I went and saw Pump up the Volume and wanted the Everybody Knows track...
Then heard First We Take Manhattan, I'm Your Man, Take This Waltz...
And so then I loaded up on early Leonard Cohen...and have to be honest despite hearing this album first much prefer his older stuff but there are great tracks and memories for me here.
Radiohead
3/5
Wasn't excited about this one.
And while it is a little more free form jam session and trippy like, it was actually a great put it on in the background and work...but there is nothing here in terms of, oh I absolutely must hear this track again like some of their previous albums.
Bob Dylan
4/5
If it only had the over referenced, over played and yet still iconic Like A Rolling Stone, this would be 3 stars, but Ballad of a Thin Man, Desolation Row and Highway 61 Revisited, in fact almost all of these tracks just carry you through one after the other. Good album.
Arcade Fire
3/5
Argh, it is difficult to separate the artist and their art nowadays...but I still quite like a lot of songs here and the debut album is one I still will perk up when I hear it...but I would have gone 4 stars but one bad apple brings them down to a 3...maybe even a 2...so let's say 2.5.
Manic Street Preachers
3/5
A little mixed on this one, some of it is right up my ear canal in a good way, but some others are a little not my thing...so middle score for middle tastes of mine.
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
4/5
I was behind the times when this came out, didn't find it until 2005. Loved it. One of the few "new" albums of that time that I just loved to play over and over.
Alice Cooper
4/5
I have never listened to this album...at least not in one sitting.
Hello Hooray, Billion Dollar Babies and of course, No More Mr. Nice Guy are all classics.
The Modern Lovers
4/5
"Roadrunner" is one of those songs I know from multiple sources but could never name the band if you asked me, but just a good, solid Velvet Underground like track.
Astral Plane feels like they are channeling The Doors.
Pablo Picasso is another fun and weird track that feels like The Ramones would have had fun covering it.
Overall a short, tight, fast and solid album.
R.E.M.
5/5
1991 - Out of Time, so many shiny happy people. The following year R.E.M. reverses course and still drops an amazing, almost perfect album.
Everybody Hurts, Man on the Moon, Nightswimming and Sweetness Follows and more. Listening to it all the way through now at a much older age it feels like it understands moments and life much better than I do now.
Beatles
5/5
You can write endlessly about The Beatles and their influence, etc. This album is one of the reasons why. Just an easy 5 stars here folks.
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
3/5
I came to Elvis Costello & The Attractions late, in my 20s in the 90s and everything I heard I pretty much liked, saw him play live and still somehow managed to avoid this complete album. Fairweather fan it seems, but, hey I have heard it now, I like it. Although I will say it doesn't quite strike me in the same way as some others have it might just be time and place syndrome.
R.E.M.
5/5
This is one of those albums I was glad to be around for at its time. I have almost always been slow on the uptake of music but this was one I heard and it landed...did I kknow of Document or Life's Rich Pageant before...nope... did I care? Eventually. But with this and Automatic For The People I was a late but pretty solid fan of this band. 5 stars!
The Beach Boys
3/5
Not exactly the Beach Boys I love. Pet Sounds, Smile, etc. but there are multiple tracks here I enjoy and hell, hard to be at those harmonies.
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
2/5
Had this come out when I was a teenager I would have been all over this playing it over and over. But I am not a kid and this is just fairly depressing for me, a good album but not for me.
Elvis Presley
4/5
They always say your a Elvis or a Beatles man, I think that's a fun thing to say and while I am a hardcore Beatles guy, there is some Elvis stuff that is undeniable and this has some great tracks.
Beck
4/5
Peter Frampton
3/5
I leave you with a simple quote from Wayne's World: "Everybody in the world has Frampton Comes Alive. If you lived in the suburbs you were issued it. It came in the mail with samples of "Tide". "
Personally 3 stars but I do really get a kick out of his Talk Box thingy.
The Sonics
5/5
How the hell is this 1965? The covers are standards but something about this sound is so raw... Awesome, awesome stuff.
The Clash
4/5
I remember growing up with London Calling in my house, but not this one... should have been both.
Fatboy Slim
4/5
This is another one of those ones I am surprised I didn't own at the time... heard it endlessly andseveral tracks still kick around today, I had the Propellerheads, how did I NOT own this one?
Mercury Rev
5/5
I... I reallllly liked this album, like first listen, loved it. So now I am going to have to wait sometime and give it a second listen. Might be just right time right place for me but this is an awesome album I have never heard of at all.
Ian Dury
3/5
I want to say above a 3 but not quite a 4 for me. But Razzle in my Pocket, Sex Drugs and Rock and Roll are awesome tracks