View Album
Wed Mar 09 2022
Disintegration
The Cure
Struck me for how original it is and the songs are thoughtfully composed. I’ve always loved “Lullaby” and “Pictures of You.” To be honest though, some songs make me sleepy and I look forward to them ending.
3
View Album
Thu Mar 10 2022
The College Dropout
Kanye West
4
View Album
Fri Mar 11 2022
British Steel
Judas Priest
Great singing and good energy, but just can’t get fully behind the butt rock genre.
3
View Album
Mon Mar 14 2022
Nothing's Shocking
Jane's Addiction
I’ve long loved this one but haven’t listened to it in years. Great reminder, especially of more obscure songs like “Pigs in Zen.”
5
View Album
Tue Mar 15 2022
Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1
George Michael
What a voice, but I was ready for it to end about three songs prior to it ending.
3
View Album
Wed Mar 16 2022
More Songs About Buildings And Food
Talking Heads
I’ve long been a fan of this album and this band!
4
View Album
Thu Mar 17 2022
Cosmo's Factory
Creedence Clearwater Revival
Solid collection of catchy hits!
4
View Album
Fri Mar 18 2022
Kilimanjaro
The Teardrop Explodes
Couldn’t get through this one.
1
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Mon Mar 21 2022
Wish You Were Here
Pink Floyd
5
View Album
Tue Mar 22 2022
Bossanova
Pixies
4
View Album
Wed Mar 23 2022
Exodus
Bob Marley & The Wailers
Solid album that’s a pleasure to listen to.
4
View Album
Thu Mar 24 2022
Darkness on the Edge of Town
Bruce Springsteen
2
View Album
Fri Mar 25 2022
Rattus Norvegicus
The Stranglers
3
View Album
Mon Mar 28 2022
Bizarre Ride II The Pharcyde
The Pharcyde
2
View Album
Tue Mar 29 2022
Hot Buttered Soul
Isaac Hayes
3
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Wed Mar 30 2022
Spiderland
Slint
Fugazi and Sonic Youth had a sweet baby with this one!
4
View Album
Thu Mar 31 2022
Court And Spark
Joni Mitchell
I went in planning to give it 4 stars to make room for “Blue” to be ranked higher, but that’s only because I forgot how amazing this record was! It’s right there with “Blue,” I’d say.
5
View Album
Fri Apr 01 2022
Young Americans
David Bowie
Few can make a sax sound cool on a rock album, but by jove Bowie’s done it!
4
View Album
Mon Apr 04 2022
Power In Numbers
Jurassic 5
Love the lyrics and rapping, but wish the background music was less monotonous.
3
View Album
Tue Apr 05 2022
Beautiful Freak
Eels
I never owned this one but always wanted it. I realized listening to it that I must have accessed it at some point because every song was familiar. Beautiful production (such clarity) and it’s definitely unique and fresh.
3
View Album
Wed Apr 06 2022
Blue Lines
Massive Attack
Went in wanting to like it, but got bored quick. Good background music.
2
View Album
Thu Apr 07 2022
Raw Like Sushi
Neneh Cherry
This album made me smile, and I’m not a fan.
2
View Album
Fri Apr 08 2022
Suede
Suede
Nice atmosphere; love the singer’s voice; this album has a vibe I am digging!
4
View Album
Mon Apr 11 2022
Bad Company
Bad Company
Listened while working and just can’t imagine listening in a more direct and attentive way.
2
View Album
Tue Apr 12 2022
Actually
Pet Shop Boys
Started out really strong, but I got less enthusiastic as it labored on. I think small doses of Pet Shop Boys works best for me. First couple songs: great. “It Couldn’t Happen Here”… well ultimately I wish that one couldn’t, and hadn’t.
3
View Album
Wed Apr 13 2022
Colour By Numbers
Culture Club
It was better than I expected, but expectations were low. Some good singing and there was certainly some heart put into it.
3
View Album
Thu Apr 14 2022
C'est Chic
CHIC
Wish it wasn’t so repetitive, but you know if this album’s playing I’m taking Anita out on the dance floor to BOOOOGGGGIIIIIIEEEE!!!!
3
View Album
Fri Apr 15 2022
Deja Vu
Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
A masterpiece! Great energy; great instrumentation; great creativity.
5
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Mon Apr 18 2022
The Velvet Underground & Nico
The Velvet Underground
Awesome record. Love the moodiness and psychedelic guitar riffs.
5
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Tue Apr 19 2022
The Wall
Pink Floyd
An epic undertaking and David Gilmour is a master guitarist. Standouts include: Another Brick in the Wall, Mother, Young Lust, One of my Turns, Hey You, Comfortably Numb, Run Like Hell, and Waiting for the Worms. I might be getting loose with the 5 star ratings, but an ambitious project like this with so many infectious songs is worthy, I think.
5
View Album
Wed Apr 20 2022
Electric Ladyland
Jimi Hendrix
I enjoyed this very much, but like so many jam band albums I know, the songs lacked a distinctiveness that’s needed in my mind for a 4 or 5 star album. There are exceptions of course (Voodoo Chile, for instance, and I was captured by 1983…(A Merman I Should Turn To Be)).
3
View Album
Thu Apr 21 2022
Fuzzy
Grant Lee Buffalo
This album is a big reason I’m doing this project: to discover an album/artist I didn’t know that is good. Great is better, but good is good, and I think Grant Lee Buffalo’s “Fuzzy” is pretty darn good. Major Bowie vibes at times, but set against more rootsy music. I listened to it once and then half of it again in the evening because I was still intrigued!
3
View Album
Fri Apr 22 2022
Live At The Harlem Square Club
Sam Cooke
I wish I could have been there live, but I wasn’t digging the recording because the singing just never stopped. Would have liked some space in there so instruments could shine. Cooke’s voice is outstanding but too relentless.
3
View Album
Mon Apr 25 2022
Birth Of The Cool
Miles Davis
I listened to it while working and totally enjoyed it. Honestly, hearing Anita talk and rave about it and how unique it is among jazz albums elevated it in my mind.
4
View Album
Tue Apr 26 2022
Protection
Massive Attack
I want to like Massive Attack so much, and I totally dug the start of this album, but I ultimately got bored.
3
View Album
Wed Apr 27 2022
There's No Place Like America Today
Curtis Mayfield
I dug it. Need to give it another round where I’m able to listen to lyrics closer.
3
View Album
Thu Apr 28 2022
Now I Got Worry
The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion
Much grittier than I was expecting. Liked the energy and the chaos of it, but stopped it before all the bonus tracks were done. At some point, I was done.
3
View Album
Fri Apr 29 2022
Merriweather Post Pavilion
Animal Collective
I need to give it another listen. I definitely dug it and was close to giving it four stars.
3
View Album
Mon May 02 2022
MTV Unplugged In New York
Nirvana
An awesome unplugged grunge show only to be rivaled by Alice In Chains. Loved the covers they did.
4
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Tue May 03 2022
(Pronounced 'Leh-'Nérd 'Skin-'Nérd)
Lynyrd Skynyrd
Gotta hand it to them: they know how to write a catchy southern song.
3
View Album
Wed May 04 2022
The ArchAndroid
Janelle Monáe
I loved loved loved this! Super creative and interesting. Great performance. Super bold and it just never let up in its awesomeness!
5
View Album
Thu May 05 2022
The Poet
Bobby Womack
A nice sound (great voice) but not my jam.
2
View Album
Fri May 06 2022
In Utero
Nirvana
I was way into grunge in the 90s but heard so much Nirvana on the radio unsurprising never got their albums. This was my first listen to “In Utero.” Great intensity and overall solid, but I do prefer my grunge with more guitar leads and harmonies.
4
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Mon May 09 2022
Astral Weeks
Van Morrison
The songs all sound the same to me and while I’ll dig any by itself, I’m not a fan of the album.
2
View Album
Tue May 10 2022
Catch A Fire
Bob Marley & The Wailers
Nice album to work to. High Tide or Low Tide a stand-out surprise!
3
View Album
Wed May 11 2022
This Nation’s Saving Grace
The Fall
Glad I listened to this. Not my favorite genre, but I appreciate it.
3
View Album
Thu May 12 2022
Arthur (Or the Decline and Fall of the British Empire)
The Kinks
That was a joy!
4
View Album
Fri May 13 2022
Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music
Ray Charles
Gorgeous album, and I can understand why my dad calls contemporary music mere “noise.” This album breathes!
4
View Album
Mon May 16 2022
The Stooges
The Stooges
I loved song #1, and then the album fell apart for me. It was like Velvet Underground and The Rolling Stones had a baby, and it was one of those babies you look at and cringe. It has value: it’s a baby, after all. But good lord!
2
View Album
Tue May 17 2022
Songs Of Love And Hate
Leonard Cohen
Love the feel, love the poetic verse and voice, but can’t do more than 3 stars because I was very ready for it to end by the time it did.
3
View Album
Wed May 18 2022
For Your Pleasure
Roxy Music
I haven’t listened to this one in a while but my first band’s guitarist was obsessed with Roxy Music and this album particularly. Bryan Ferry’s vibrato is legendary! This album is a pleasure for me.
3
View Album
Thu May 19 2022
L.A. Woman
The Doors
I went in thinking I would love this more than I did. A couple gems and I love this band, but the album didn’t blow me away.
3
View Album
Fri May 20 2022
Five Leaves Left
Nick Drake
I need more Nick Drake in my life. Lovely guitar and vocals. Solid album.
4
View Album
Mon May 23 2022
Moon Safari
Air
Creative, atmospheric, unique, but ultimately boring.
2
View Album
Tue May 24 2022
Maggot Brain
Funkadelic
Felt like a disaster of an album to me, right from track 1 (and I don’t hate funk).
1
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Wed May 25 2022
Calenture
The Triffids
Nope.
1
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Thu May 26 2022
Morrison Hotel
The Doors
Awesome album. I was disappointed with LA Woman and I’m not sure this record is all that different, but it just struck me as more solid. Jim’s voice is legendary.
4
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Fri May 27 2022
Penance Soiree
The Icarus Line
Loved it. Super dark and gritty. Never heard of this band before!
4
View Album
Mon May 30 2022
Like A Prayer
Madonna
I enjoyed listening to my first Madonna album front to back. The hits are great, and the B-sides are surprisingly interesting.
4
View Album
Tue May 31 2022
Smile
Brian Wilson
A trip into Brian Wilson’s mind…as I expected, it was interesting, weird, super creative, and surprising. Not the kind of album I’d spin most days, but I appreciate it for the art that it is.
3
View Album
Wed Jun 01 2022
The United States Of America
The United States Of America
Too many drugs were consumed in the making of this record.
1
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Thu Jun 02 2022
Ambient 1/Music For Airports
Brian Eno
This was the perfect album to have recommended to calm my nerves before a job interview with my employer Clark College.
4
View Album
Fri Jun 03 2022
A Girl Called Dusty
Dusty Springfield
I enjoyed this quite a bit! Great voice; good vibe; solid set of songs.
4
View Album
Mon Jun 06 2022
The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan
Solid collection of great folk tunes. Bob’s got a gift!
4
View Album
Tue Jun 07 2022
Too Rye Ay
Dexys Midnight Runners
All in could hear on every song was “Come On Eileen.” What should recognizable voice. Overall fun album and band, but not one I’ll revisit much or at all.
3
View Album
Wed Jun 08 2022
Mama's Gun
Erykah Badu
Particularly dug the “In Love With You” duet with Stephen Marley. This album is solid front to back.
4
View Album
Thu Jun 09 2022
Rock 'N Soul
Solomon Burke
Loved it. Smooth, well written songs!
4
View Album
Fri Jun 10 2022
The Queen Is Dead
The Smiths
Gave it two spins in a row cause it’s been a while and it’s so refreshing. It was better than I remembered it being, and I remembered it being very good.
5
View Album
Mon Jun 13 2022
Every Picture Tells A Story
Rod Stewart
I was pleasantly surprised by this one. Loved the slide guitar and rootsy feel.
3
View Album
Tue Jun 14 2022
Sound of Silver
LCD Soundsystem
I enjoyed this one. I could hear how they influenced artists I really like, but I kept thinking that the artists I really like took what this band was doing and made it better, which is why 3 stars is the most I can give.
3
View Album
Wed Jun 15 2022
Let It Bleed
The Rolling Stones
I didn’t give this one the attention it deserves. I loved hearing it as background music to grading papers and cleaning house. I will come back to it happily, which is evidence for me that it’s a 4 minimum.
4
View Album
Thu Jun 16 2022
Yankee Hotel Foxtrot
Wilco
One of my all time favorite albums. This one opened up a world to me.
5
View Album
Fri Jun 17 2022
A Hard Day's Night
Beatles
A great collection of catchy songs that fail to move me emotionally but do keep me listening (and happy).
3
View Album
Mon Jun 20 2022
Kid A
Radiohead
5 stars, only cause there’s no option to give 6. I’ll always remember showing up at Target before the store opened, getting in at opening, grabbing the disc, playing it in the parking lot, discovering the secret book tucked underneath the CD holder, and just soaking it all in.
5
View Album
Tue Jun 21 2022
Stankonia
OutKast
I really liked 3/4 of it. Great energy and creativity. Not a 4 cause the 1/4 I didn’t like, I really didn’t like.
3
View Album
Wed Jun 22 2022
Hypocrisy Is The Greatest Luxury
The Disposable Heroes Of Hiphoprisy
3
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Thu Jun 23 2022
Double Nickels On The Dime
Minutemen
4
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Fri Jun 24 2022
Bad
Michael Jackson
4
View Album
Mon Jun 27 2022
Highway to Hell
AC/DC
There’s a formula they stick to, for sure! Loved “Love Hungry Man.” Pretty sure the last vocal on the album is the lead singer hurling.
3
View Album
Tue Jun 28 2022
The Man Who
Travis
I’m familiar with another album from Travis (“The Invisible Band”) which I liked much better. This one was alright.
2
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Wed Jun 29 2022
Boston
Boston
I gotta say, I was often impressed!
3
View Album
Thu Jun 30 2022
Younger Than Yesterday
The Byrds
4
View Album
Fri Jul 01 2022
All Mod Cons
The Jam
3
View Album
Mon Jul 04 2022
Pornography
The Cure
3
View Album
Tue Jul 05 2022
Oracular Spectacular
MGMT
4
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Wed Jul 06 2022
I Should Coco
Supergrass
3
View Album
Thu Jul 07 2022
Melody A.M.
Röyksopp
3
View Album
Fri Jul 08 2022
Chicago Transit Authority
Chicago
Not my style. I appreciate the abilities of the musicians, and hence the two stars.
2
View Album
Mon Jul 11 2022
Urban Hymns
The Verve
I know this album well and listened to it on earphones this time around. It’s a masterclass on creating atmosphere.
4
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Tue Jul 12 2022
Raising Hell
Run-D.M.C.
2
View Album
Wed Jul 13 2022
In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida
Iron Butterfly
3
View Album
Thu Jul 14 2022
Among The Living
Anthrax
4
View Album
Fri Jul 15 2022
Teenager Of The Year
Frank Black
This album had so much energy and originality I feel bad not giving it a 4 or even 5, but I couldn’t emotionally connect and I don’t expect to listen again (but who knows), so alas a three.
3
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Mon Jul 18 2022
Hunky Dory
David Bowie
Loved hearing the songs I’d never heard, like the Andy Warhol song!
4
View Album
Tue Jul 19 2022
The Low End Theory
A Tribe Called Quest
Appreciating the poetry, but a bit monotonous for my taste.
3
View Album
Wed Jul 20 2022
Unknown Pleasures
Joy Division
This album checks so many boxes for me, but somehow I just couldn’t get into it.
3
View Album
Thu Jul 21 2022
Close To You
Carpenters
Really dug the “Reason to Believe” and “Help” covers.
3
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Fri Jul 22 2022
Arc Of A Diver
Steve Winwood
I was surprised at how much I enjoyed this one. A great album to cycle to!
3
View Album
Mon Jul 25 2022
Smash
The Offspring
Great collection of songs! This one brings me back a ways!
4
View Album
Tue Jul 26 2022
Fragile
Yes
Well that was epic and awesome!
4
View Album
Wed Jul 27 2022
Dirt
Alice In Chains
A grunge masterpiece. Every song memorable. “Would?” is the perfect ending!
5
View Album
Thu Jul 28 2022
Tommy
The Who
Saw it in London in ‘96. Loved it then; love it now!
5
View Album
Fri Jul 29 2022
Like Water For Chocolate
Common
There’s enough cringy stuff on here to cause it to fall short of a five for me, but there’s just as much inspirational stuff and the music is darn good. I enjoyed this!
4
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Mon Aug 01 2022
Private Dancer
Tina Turner
2
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Tue Aug 02 2022
Funeral
Arcade Fire
So much to love!
5
View Album
Wed Aug 03 2022
Appetite For Destruction
Guns N' Roses
The hits hit hard! The non-hits are cringy are times. Overall, quite enjoyable.
4
View Album
Thu Aug 04 2022
Live At The Regal
B.B. King
Stellar live album! What a voice.
4
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Fri Aug 05 2022
Transformer
Lou Reed
4
View Album
Mon Aug 08 2022
Bandwagonesque
Teenage Fanclub
It was alright.
3
View Album
Wed Aug 10 2022
Kings Of The Wild Frontier
Adam & The Ants
Loved it! Serious Oingo Boingo vibes!
4
View Album
Thu Aug 11 2022
Clube Da Esquina
Milton Nascimento
What a gem! Glad to have heard it! Beautiful voice, guitar, recording.
4
View Album
Fri Aug 12 2022
Wild Is The Wind
Nina Simone
Haunting. Freaked over “Lilac Wine” and the last two tracks were awesome.
3
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Mon Aug 15 2022
The Köln Concert
Keith Jarrett
Beautiful performance. A bit to monotone to keep me coming back, but it was nice to work to and listen in intently every once in a while.
3
View Album
Tue Aug 16 2022
A Night At The Opera
Queen
Masterpiece
5
View Album
Wed Aug 17 2022
New Gold Dream (81/82/83/84)
Simple Minds
Love the singer. Songs are decent.
3
View Album
Thu Aug 18 2022
The Notorious Byrd Brothers
The Byrds
Nice tunes, but nothing really leaped out at me. In fact, I can’t remember a single song just 30 minutes after listening (albeit I was working while listening, but a 4 or 5 star record will at least distract me at times from that work).
3
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Fri Aug 19 2022
Rage Against The Machine
Rage Against The Machine
As hard hitting now as when it came out.
5
View Album
Mon Aug 22 2022
Disraeli Gears
Cream
Great collection of songs! “Strange Brew” is of course outstanding!
4
View Album
Tue Aug 23 2022
Speakerboxxx/The Love Below
OutKast
Listened to it all. Ambitious undertaking with many perfect moments.
4
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Wed Aug 24 2022
Africa Brasil
Jorge Ben Jor
4
View Album
Thu Aug 25 2022
Bayou Country
Creedence Clearwater Revival
4
View Album
Fri Aug 26 2022
Seventh Tree
Goldfrapp
Nice sound. Good music to work to for sure.
3
View Album
Mon Aug 29 2022
Dookie
Green Day
First time hearing it. Hit machine. Only criticism is that there’s a formula they never ever stray from, so feels repetitive. They even say something to that effect in FOB: “Let's nuke the bridge we torched two thousand times before.”
4
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Tue Aug 30 2022
Face to Face
The Kinks
Liked it but didn’t love it. “Sunny Afternoon” was a clear favorite.
3
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Wed Aug 31 2022
The La's
The La's
And I now know where “There She Goes” came from! Enjoyable set of tunes.
3
View Album
Thu Sep 01 2022
Scott 2
Scott Walker
That was…a lot. Not my cup of tea, but I do appreciate the spirit of the record! Scott Walker had a unique vision and he went the $&@# after it!
2
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Fri Sep 02 2022
Exile On Main Street
The Rolling Stones
Dang, that jam at the end of “Loving Cup”! Delicious! I like how you feel like your in a garage with these guys, listening to them play. I never listened to whole Stones albums before this, and I’m grateful!
4
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Mon Sep 05 2022
It's A Shame About Ray
The Lemonheads
I like them best when acoustic. Felt major Costello vibes at times. Overall, liked it fine but it doesn’t excite me.
3
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Tue Sep 06 2022
Thriller
Michael Jackson
5
View Album
Wed Sep 07 2022
Fear Of A Black Planet
Public Enemy
I liked it a lot. My criticism is that most of the time there’s so much going on with the music it’s overwhelming.
4
View Album
Thu Sep 08 2022
Happy Sad
Tim Buckley
This one brings back old and very strange memories of traveling from San Diego to LA to record bass in a studio for a guy I never met and who showed up extremely late and very inebriated (I think). Deep into the night we played and recorded Tim Buckley songs live that were on this album. The session was trash and I never heard results. I drove home VERY late (2, or 3am), fell asleep for much of the following day and vowed never to do such a thing again. As for the album, it’s very pretty.
3
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Fri Sep 09 2022
The Last Of The True Believers
Nanci Griffith
Powerhouse of a voice. I got pretty excited by track 1, but then couldn’t find another track to match it. Some close contenders include “Fly By Night” and “Lookin’ For The Time (Workin’ Girl)”. So close to giving it a Four, but it’s lacking some quality that distinguished my favorite albums of this genre.
3
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Mon Sep 12 2022
Lust For Life
Iggy Pop
That was quite enjoyable! It appears I need more Iggy Pop in my life!
5
View Album
Tue Sep 13 2022
Sea Change
Beck
I’ve long lived this record. Perfect on those rainy days. Beck is versatile and amazing.
5
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Wed Sep 14 2022
High Violet
The National
Love the sound of The National. I’ve heard them before and I actually don’t quite understand why I don’t keep coming back to them. Whatever that reason is, it’s why I give this a 4 and not a 5.
4
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Thu Sep 15 2022
We're Only In It For The Money
The Mothers Of Invention
I kept thinking over and over again: “Just because you can doesn’t mean you should.”
1
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Fri Sep 16 2022
Scream, Dracula, Scream
Rocket From The Crypt
There were some moments (for instance, on “On A Rope”), but not many. Overall, meh.
2
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Mon Sep 19 2022
The Idiot
Iggy Pop
I liked it and learned that “China Girl” was co-written by Iggy Pop and David Bowie. This album is dark and moody and I found myself digging it generally. Still, it didn’t incite the excitement I got from “Lust For Life.”
4
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Tue Sep 20 2022
Roger the Engineer
The Yardbirds
Definitely some great jams on this one.
3
View Album
Wed Sep 21 2022
You're Living All Over Me
Dinosaur Jr.
Some lovely chaos, but ultimately lacking memorable hooks and rifts I crave in music of all genres. “Tarpit” was a highlight.
3
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Thu Sep 22 2022
Goodbye Yellow Brick Road
Elton John
Fabulous. Was on the road to five stars when suddenly “Jamaica Jerk-off” came on and I thought, “No Sir Elton, you have to be penalized in some form for that.”
4
View Album
Fri Sep 23 2022
Connected
Stereo MC's
Just not feeling it. Bored mostly. Started out great with their hit, and then waned on.
2
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Mon Sep 26 2022
Pet Sounds
The Beach Boys
After multiple listens this weekend, I’m concluding that this album that I’ve been meaning to listen to for decades is absolutely wonderful!
5
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Tue Sep 27 2022
My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy
Kanye West
Loved the first half more than the second. Power, followed by All of the Lights followed by Monster was the highlight for me.
4
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Wed Sep 28 2022
Screamadelica
Primal Scream
I got excited during tracks 1 and 2, and then was thoroughly bored for the next 50 minutes. It’s painful when s as seven minute song never goes anywhere, and much worse when they’re lined up one after another.
2
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Thu Sep 29 2022
Bongo Rock
Incredible Bongo Band
Some sweet jams. Nice to work to.
3
View Album
Fri Sep 30 2022
Everything Must Go
Manic Street Preachers
The last song was good enough to almost change my mind, but I don’t see why this album is on the list. The set of songs are decent enough, but it didn’t strike me as particularly special.
2
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Mon Oct 03 2022
Le Tigre
Le Tigre
Dug it! It was like Sleater Kinney met up with Phoenix and had a sweat little baby.
4
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Tue Oct 04 2022
Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band
Beatles
Great album but doesn’t hit the way “Abbey Road” does.
4
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Wed Oct 05 2022
Tubular Bells
Mike Oldfield
It struck me that the album starts like a Tool album, if Tool had only chimes to work with. I got through half of track one and just can’t spend my time on this one. I see the value but it’s not my thing.
2
View Album
Thu Oct 06 2022
The Last Broadcast
Doves
3
View Album
Fri Oct 07 2022
Can't Buy A Thrill
Steely Dan
Quite a few hits, so I’ll give them that, but in my opinion: dull.
3
View Album
Mon Oct 10 2022
Grace
Jeff Buckley
So many moments causing so many shivers down my spine. If ever there was a masterpiece…
5
View Album
Tue Oct 11 2022
...And Justice For All
Metallica
“One” is the bomb, and the rest is good.
3
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Wed Oct 12 2022
Veckatimest
Grizzly Bear
Beautiful atmosphere. This album made me a fan of the band, and in my opinion their best work came after this gem.
4
View Album
Thu Oct 13 2022
Isn't Anything
My Bloody Valentine
I wanted to like it, but it dragged on and on and I was quite happy when it was over.
2
View Album
Fri Oct 14 2022
Music From Big Pink
The Band
Loved it. Knew the hits but didn’t know they played “Long Black Veil,” a song I love and forgot about.
4
View Album
Mon Oct 17 2022
A Nod Is As Good As A Wink To A Blind Horse
Faces
3
View Album
Tue Oct 18 2022
Abattoir Blues / The Lyre of Orpheus
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
My god the mood this man creates…
5
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Wed Oct 19 2022
(What's The Story) Morning Glory
Oasis
Nice to revisit this one. They were definitely syncing on this one.
4
View Album
Thu Oct 20 2022
Marcus Garvey
Burning Spear
3
View Album
Fri Oct 21 2022
Black Sabbath
Black Sabbath
3
View Album
Mon Oct 24 2022
The Message
Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five
Groovy and fun, but the Stevie Wonder tribute kind of killed this one for me.
2
View Album
Tue Oct 25 2022
Frank
Amy Winehouse
Loved much of it, and particularly “In My Bed.”
4
View Album
Wed Oct 26 2022
Legalize It
Peter Tosh
3
View Album
Thu Oct 27 2022
Vol. 4
Black Sabbath
Found myself digging these songs more than the last Black Sabbath álbum assigned.
4
View Album
Fri Oct 28 2022
Orbital 2
Orbital
2
View Album
Mon Oct 31 2022
Enter The Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)
Wu-Tang Clan
3
View Album
Tue Nov 01 2022
Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley
3
View Album
Wed Nov 02 2022
Underwater Moonlight
The Soft Boys
3
View Album
Thu Nov 03 2022
Phaedra
Tangerine Dream
Heard a few tracks, which was enough to appreciate the vibe but recognize it’s not my jam.
2
View Album
Fri Nov 04 2022
Layla And Other Assorted Love Songs
Derek & The Dominos
I enjoyed the heck out of this! Only thing making it a 4 and not a 5 in my view is that some songs lasted about 1 to 2 to 4 minutes longer than was warranted. (But I also get that the band was jamming.)
4
View Album
Mon Nov 07 2022
The Beach Boys Today!
The Beach Boys
Nice and catchy; exactly what I expected. Lacked that quality “Pet Sounds” has and so good but not amazing.
3
View Album
Tue Nov 08 2022
Horses
Patti Smith
Independent, rule breaking, punk AF, majestic voice. I get it and love it.
4
View Album
Wed Nov 09 2022
Hotel California
Eagles
If every song was “Hotel California”: a 5. However, every song is not “Hotel California” and the band is just too sleepy and reserved for my liking.
3
View Album
Thu Nov 10 2022
Deloused in the Comatorium
The Mars Volta
Brilliant in every way: song writing, palpable energy, performance of every instrument, vocals for the ages. This album and band have long been an obsession!
5
View Album
Fri Nov 11 2022
The Psychedelic Sounds of the 13th Floor Elevators
The 13th Floor Elevators
Caught my attention right away and I enjoyed it. However, it dragged on with similar-sounding songs. I think I’d like this band best in short spurts.
3
View Album
Mon Nov 14 2022
Queen II
Queen
I was underwhelmed after hearing “A Night at the Opera.” This album’s production was problematic for me. The instruments and Freddie’s voice often sounded muddled. But the songs also felt less than special. I think Queen’s brilliance hurt their rating from me: I compared the to what they can be, and on this one they fell short of their own excellent standard.
3
View Album
Tue Nov 15 2022
With The Beatles
Beatles
Catchy, of course.
3
View Album
Wed Nov 16 2022
Talking With the Taxman About Poetry
Billy Bragg
Came in biased (love Billy Bragg!). A nice, predictable set of tunes from the union man.
3
View Album
Fri Nov 18 2022
Duck Rock
Malcolm McLaren
Weird stuff, man.
2
View Album
Mon Nov 21 2022
Vespertine
Björk
A masterpiece I’ve long relished from start to finish!
5
View Album
Tue Nov 22 2022
Paranoid
Black Sabbath
That’s was great, and it’s clear how influential Black Sabbath was on Alice In Chains!
4
View Album
Wed Nov 23 2022
Faith
George Michael
A collection of great pop songs. A couple album fillers, but overall a gem! Favorite line: “Sex is natural, sex is fun, sex is best when it’s one on one.” Good lord.
4
View Album
Thu Nov 24 2022
Crocodiles
Echo And The Bunnymen
Awesome sound. Iconic voice. More please!
4
View Album
Fri Nov 25 2022
Music From The Penguin Cafe
Penguin Cafe Orchestra
Nice melodies and a nice album to work to. A pleasant surprise!
3
View Album
Mon Nov 28 2022
evermore
Taylor Swift
My first Taylor Swift album. Nice sound and some good originality. I did get bored, though. Close to a 4, but I’m not quite there.
3
View Album
Tue Nov 29 2022
Paul Simon
Paul Simon
I enjoyed this. Would have loved some added instruments and vocal harmonies.
3
View Album
Wed Nov 30 2022
Pills 'n' Thrills And Bellyaches
Happy Mondays
I can see how they were influenced by Midnight Oil and influential on EMF, but Midnight Oil and EMF are so much better I can’t justify anything more than a 2.
2
View Album
Thu Dec 01 2022
Mask
Bauhaus
Great originality and energy. I came in wanting to love it, but the style just doesn’t grip me, so I came out liking it.
3
View Album
Fri Dec 02 2022
Music For The Jilted Generation
The Prodigy
Nice to work to and I imagine pretty rad in a club.
3
View Album
Mon Dec 05 2022
OK Computer
Radiohead
Easily one of the most important albums in my musical education. I was a big Radiohead fan from their start (Pablo Honey). I adored The Bends. But it was OK Computer that elevated them to Gods. What a masterpiece!
5
View Album
Tue Dec 06 2022
The Suburbs
Arcade Fire
I love this album. Following OK Computer? Wake me up, I think I’m in Heaven!
5
View Album
Wed Dec 07 2022
The Dreaming
Kate Bush
I really enjoyed this, and I’m thinking now that I need more Kate Bush in my life.
4
View Album
Thu Dec 08 2022
Swordfishtrombones
Tom Waits
Love the variety, the energy, and of course the grittiness.
3
View Album
Fri Dec 09 2022
Cafe Bleu
The Style Council
Some good moments; liked when it was jazzy; don’t expect to come back to it.
2
View Album
Mon Dec 12 2022
Apocalypse 91… The Enemy Strikes Black
Public Enemy
Great energy; loved the hard rock elements.
4
View Album
Tue Dec 13 2022
New York Dolls
New York Dolls
Serious Rolling Stones vibes. Good stuff.
3
View Album
Wed Dec 14 2022
Non-Stop Erotic Cabaret
Soft Cell
That was so, so bad. Painful and awkward.
1
View Album
Thu Dec 15 2022
Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness
The Smashing Pumpkins
A masterful double album. A masterclass in weaving between heavy and tender. And so many hits!
5
View Album
Fri Dec 16 2022
Abraxas
Santana
Dug it. Great playing and song writing.
3
View Album
Mon Dec 19 2022
Let's Get It On
Marvin Gaye
I enjoyed this more than I expected to. Smooth vocals.
3
View Album
Tue Dec 20 2022
Dust
Screaming Trees
This album’s a GEM!
4
View Album
Wed Dec 21 2022
Teenage Head
Flamin' Groovies
Dug it!
3
View Album
Thu Dec 22 2022
Beggars Banquet
The Rolling Stones
Predictably solid.
3
View Album
Fri Dec 23 2022
Moondance
Van Morrison
4
View Album
Wed Jan 04 2023
A Christmas Gift For You From Phil Spector
Various Artists
Wow, so many of the Xmas tunes that come up on a holiday playlist came from this album. Gotta give it all the stars, despite its producer being a murderer.
5
View Album
Thu Jan 05 2023
Elephant
The White Stripes
Can’t believe I’d never listened to this before. Now that I have, I get it!
4
View Album
Fri Jan 06 2023
Led Zeppelin IV
Led Zeppelin
Fantastic, start to finish!
5
View Album
Mon Jan 09 2023
Jagged Little Pill
Alanis Morissette
This album just did too much to define a musical movement, a generation, to get anything less than a 5. My favorite has long been “Mary Jane,” with “Ironic” and “You Oughta Know” close behind. I loved revisiting this album and I played it loud in the car as nostalgia washed over me.
5
View Album
Tue Jan 10 2023
Electric Warrior
T. Rex
Nice energy and much fun!
3
View Album
Wed Jan 11 2023
Rain Dogs
Tom Waits
I was recently turned on to this album and so this is my third or fourth listen. It’s awesome and gritty.
4
View Album
Thu Jan 12 2023
Let It Be
The Replacements
I like the feel and the singer’s voice. Just wanted it to be a bit better. I suppose I was craving more memorable hooks.
3
View Album
Fri Jan 13 2023
Exit Planet Dust
The Chemical Brothers
Not bad to work to but also not my thing. I appreciate it but wouldn’t turn to it when I want to listen to music.
2
View Album
Mon Jan 16 2023
Green Onions
Booker T. & The MG's
Nothing great here. I perked up only after the album ended and Spotify played something like it.
2
View Album
Tue Jan 17 2023
Songs From The Big Chair
Tears For Fears
Great album! Would have been a Five if (1) it ended differently, and (2) there were a couple more songs that had a vibe similar to tracks 1-7.
4
View Album
Wed Jan 18 2023
I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You
Aretha Franklin
Loved it loved it loved it! What a voice!
5
View Album
Thu Jan 19 2023
Destroyer
KISS
Oof, not a fan.
1
View Album
Fri Jan 20 2023
3 Years, 5 Months And 2 Days In The Life Of...
Arrested Development
Album is full of positive messages and a good beat. It’s community wisdom in song, built for sharing. Respect.
3
View Album
Mon Jan 23 2023
Risque
CHIC
I dig it, but too much repetition for my taste. Chic is perfect for a wedding and I can imagine they’re fun live.
2
View Album
Tue Jan 24 2023
The White Album
Beatles
I’ll admit: first time listening to this album from start to finish. Came in grumpy (can’t give The Beatles all the stars just cause they’re The Beatles! Grrr!). Then songs like Happiness is a Warm Gun, Julia, and Helter Skelter kept coming on and I thoroughly loved it and I’m giving it all the stars.
5
View Album
Wed Jan 25 2023
São Paulo Confessions
Suba
Nice vibe. Great to work to; great for ambiance. There’s only a few tracks I can imagine myself sitting down and focusing on.
3
View Album
Thu Jan 26 2023
London Calling
The Clash
A great album through and through! I love The Clash for their vocals, rhythms, riffs, and garage-y sound.
4
View Album
Fri Jan 27 2023
Live 1966 (The Royal Albert Hall Concert)
Bob Dylan
I loved it, and especially when the whole band was jamming and getting delightfully bluesy!
4
View Album
Mon Jan 30 2023
Stand!
Sly & The Family Stone
Dug it!
3
View Album
Tue Jan 31 2023
Ritual De Lo Habitual
Jane's Addiction
I had totally forgot about “Three Days,” one of my favorites. Great album!
4
View Album
Wed Feb 01 2023
The Gershwin Songbook
Ella Fitzgerald
I am so thankful for this 1001 album project for the way it’s got me listening to Ella Fitzgerald.
5
View Album
Thu Feb 02 2023
Licensed To Ill
Beastie Boys
Can’t do it. Recognize its energy and it does have its merits, but at the risk of sounding like a curmudgeon, most songs are annoying and the lyrics are stupid.
2
View Album
Fri Feb 03 2023
Crooked Rain Crooked Rain
Pavement
Enjoyable but nothing grabbed me.
3
View Album
Mon Feb 06 2023
The Joshua Tree
U2
Excellent from start to finish. One of my favorite all time albums. A game changer in my life (but not the first U2 album I heard: looking forward to giving Achtung Baby all the stars too!).
5
View Album
Tue Feb 07 2023
Surf's Up
The Beach Boys
Enjoyable and seemed a bit more raw than other BB records I’ve heard.
3
View Album
Wed Feb 08 2023
She's So Unusual
Cyndi Lauper
Found myself enjoying this much more than expected, and if every song was “She Bop,” it’d be the easiest five star rating of my life.
3
View Album
Thu Feb 09 2023
Madman Across The Water
Elton John
Super strong start but I soon lost interest. There was a certain formula that kept repeating itself that caused me to lose interest even as I appreciated the musicianship.
3
View Album
Fri Feb 10 2023
Repeater
Fugazi
I love Repeater and guaranteed every time I listen to a Fugazi record I think, “dang the bass and drums sound so goooood!”
4
View Album
Mon Feb 13 2023
Hejira
Joni Mitchell
Joni is hit or miss, and this one misses. I think I need clear structure, with a memorable verse and chorus, and I never found it on this record.
2
View Album
Tue Feb 14 2023
The Yes Album
Yes
Had its moments, good musicianship. Ultimately…not feeling it.
3
View Album
Wed Feb 15 2023
Darkdancer
Les Rythmes Digitales
Found myself liking it (in particular, liked working with it playing). Nice energy.
3
View Album
Thu Feb 16 2023
Selling England By The Pound
Genesis
The only way I can explain why I’m not into Yes, but I love this record is: Peter Gabriel.
5
View Album
Fri Feb 17 2023
Larks' Tongues In Aspic
King Crimson
Creative, exciting, nerdy. I like it!
4
View Album
Mon Feb 20 2023
Loveless
My Bloody Valentine
I like how it starts and how it ends, but just couldn’t get swept up in everything in between.
3
View Album
Tue Feb 21 2023
Songs In The Key Of Life
Stevie Wonder
Really dug “As” and “All Day Sucker.”
3
View Album
Wed Feb 22 2023
Dusty In Memphis
Dusty Springfield
Nice set of songs. An enjoyable listen.
3
View Album
Thu Feb 23 2023
Hard Again
Muddy Waters
So good! Great recording and energy! My one hang up is a hang up I have with all blues records: I love them off the bat but the songs end up sounding the same and I’ve grown tired by the end.
4
View Album
Fri Feb 24 2023
Sex Packets
Digital Underground
Like many grooves. Lyrics leave a lot to be desired, especially when the “sex packets” that are referenced over and over and over again seem to be done kind of date rape drug.
2
View Album
Mon Feb 27 2023
Sheer Heart Attack
Queen
Always original, but not my favorite from Queen.
3
View Album
Tue Feb 28 2023
Heartattack And Vine
Tom Waits
This one replaced Rain Dogs as my favorite Tom Waits album!
5
View Album
Wed Mar 01 2023
Tuesday Night Music Club
Sheryl Crow
Some real gems on here. Took me right back to high school!
4
View Album
Thu Mar 02 2023
Coles Corner
Richard Hawley
Found myself enjoying this more often than not, and I particularly like the last instrumental track.
3
View Album
Fri Mar 03 2023
Django Django
Django Django
Never heard of this group and it was definitely a pleasant listening experience.
3
View Album
Mon Mar 06 2023
Violator
Depeche Mode
A classic through and through!
5
View Album
Tue Mar 07 2023
Wild Wood
Paul Weller
Something about this reminded me of open mic nights at various coffee shops in the middle of the week in the early 2000s.
2
View Album
Wed Mar 08 2023
Diamond Life
Sade
Nice and smooth (operator).
3
View Album
Thu Mar 09 2023
American Beauty
Grateful Dead
Friend of the Devil is definitely the highlight.
3
View Album
Fri Mar 10 2023
Play
Moby
There’s a lot to live on this record (and a lot to be bored by on the B-Sides).
4
View Album
Mon Mar 13 2023
1989
Taylor Swift
Catchy. Listened to some tracks twice, which is characteristic of a four star rating from me.
4
View Album
Tue Mar 14 2023
Different Class
Pulp
Glad to be reminded of this band and this very solid record.
4
View Album
Wed Mar 15 2023
Franz Ferdinand
Franz Ferdinand
Great closing track. Love this band’s sound, but was a little surprised I didn’t love this album more than I did.
3
View Album
Fri Mar 17 2023
Paris 1919
John Cale
Never heard of John Cale and enjoyed this album.
3
View Album
Mon Mar 20 2023
Axis: Bold As Love
Jimi Hendrix
I listened while doing yard work, so I was admittedly distracted, but I wasn’t grabbed by this one.
3
View Album
Tue Mar 21 2023
Endtroducing.....
DJ Shadow
Nice to work to.
3
View Album
Wed Mar 22 2023
Run-D.M.C.
Run-D.M.C.
I found myself being pleasantly surprised by the lyrics (including on “Wake Up”), but I just can’t get behind the background music.
2
View Album
Thu Mar 23 2023
Blackstar
David Bowie
First listen and I’m better for it. I had to struggle through track 1, but right after it the album sucked me in. Loved the horns!
4
View Album
Fri Mar 24 2023
Chris
Christine and the Queens
Nice sound. Did my due diligence and listened to both the English and the French 1.5 hours of music, which is a testament to its being enjoyable.
3
View Album
Mon Mar 27 2023
Queen Of Denmark
John Grant
Ambitious and inventive and weird at times. I liked it, and there’s no denying the dude’s got a great voice.
3
View Album
Tue Mar 28 2023
Otis Blue: Otis Redding Sings Soul
Otis Redding
So, so good. I must return to this!
5
View Album
Wed Mar 29 2023
Blue
Joni Mitchell
Beautiful album with many of my favorite Joni songs!
5
View Album
Thu Mar 30 2023
Destroy Rock & Roll
Mylo
3
View Album
Fri Mar 31 2023
Celebrity Skin
Hole
Nice! Full of bangers. I particularly loved “Use Once & Destroy”.
4
View Album
Mon Apr 03 2023
The Marshall Mathers LP
Eminem
There’s so much talent on this record, and I think I would have liked it much more when I was younger, just as I loved “The Eminem Show,” but times have changed for me. There’s too much glorification of domestic violence, murder, and homophobia to get behind it.
2
View Album
Tue Apr 04 2023
Modern Kosmology
Jane Weaver
Really nice and surprising album. Loved the psychedelic synth. Teetered between three and four (started to lose me in the middle but got me back with “The Architect”). Landing on a four because it was memorable and unique.
4
View Album
Wed Apr 05 2023
Sunshine Superman
Donovan
3
View Album
Thu Apr 06 2023
Station To Station
David Bowie
Wow! Loved this! Such awesome bass, among many other highlights.
5
View Album
Fri Apr 07 2023
Heroes
David Bowie
Pretty surprised by the instrumentals at the end, and then the disco finale. Bowie is always surprising! Loved the first and last tracks. Liked but didn’t love everything in the middle.
3
View Album
Mon Apr 10 2023
Street Life
The Crusaders
Worked with this as background music and I think I now know what it’s like to work as a receptionist in a primary care doctors office.
1
View Album
Tue Apr 11 2023
Highway 61 Revisited
Bob Dylan
3
View Album
Wed Apr 12 2023
A Love Supreme
John Coltrane
Very nice, just as I expected.
3
View Album
Thu Apr 13 2023
Beauty And The Beat
The Go-Go's
Catchy and some memorable tunes. I like it.
3
View Album
Fri Apr 14 2023
Junkyard
The Birthday Party
Gritty AF. Glad to learn about Nick Cave’s roots. Boy he got A LOT better with age. The gem on this one was “Several Sins” but most was hard to endure.
2
View Album
Mon Apr 17 2023
Tigermilk
Belle & Sebastian
Nice easy listening. Evokes a strong 60s vibe.
3
View Album
Tue Apr 18 2023
The Renaissance
Q-Tip
Original and was surprised by the sudden presence of Norah Jones.
3
View Album
Wed Apr 19 2023
Marquee Moon
Television
I’ll admit it wasn’t a super close listen. What I heard was pleasing but I never had a “wait!” moment that drew me in. Reminded me of The Rolling Stones a bit.
3
View Album
Thu Apr 20 2023
Tidal
Fiona Apple
5
View Album
Fri Apr 21 2023
If You're Feeling Sinister
Belle & Sebastian
It grew on me more and more as it went on. I don’t love their sound enough to give 4 stars, but I do like this album.
3
View Album
Mon Apr 24 2023
Teen Dream
Beach House
Definitely dreamy. Freaked out a bit on “Lover of Mine” for how dang close it is to Vampire Weekend’s “Unbearably White.”
3
View Album
Tue Apr 25 2023
Ill Communication
Beastie Boys
I liked this one much better than the last Beastie Boys album assigned. Was digging “Bodhisattva Vow.”
4
View Album
Wed Apr 26 2023
Yeezus
Kanye West
I have to a knowledge the artistry and production. Many songs made me feel uncomfortable, which makes an album stand out.
3
View Album
Thu Apr 27 2023
Fulfillingness' First Finale
Stevie Wonder
Had the good fortune of having this one on vinyl. Very nice, solid, pleasing record.
3
View Album
Fri Apr 28 2023
Sunday At The Village Vanguard
Bill Evans Trio
Smoooooth!
4
View Album
Mon May 01 2023
Document
R.E.M.
A solid REM record! I forgot about “King of Birds” and how much I love it!
4
View Album
Tue May 02 2023
Low-Life
New Order
Such strong Cure vibes on “Sunrise”! Interesting thing: as I listened I just kept thinking of what other great bands they sounded like. That means they were epically influential or they were riding a wave. Not sure which, but ultimately I like the bands they remind me of more than them.
3
View Album
Wed May 03 2023
The Undertones
The Undertones
If you like song one, you’ll like them all. There’s great consistency in this one. Maybe a little too much. Some variation in sound would have been nice.
3
View Album
Thu May 04 2023
Halcyon Digest
Deerhunter
I expect to come back to this one for closer and closer listens. Very nice production, layers, vocals, and more.
4
View Album
Fri May 05 2023
Copper Blue
Sugar
A wall of constant, unyielding noise. Couldn’t wait till it was over. The only positive: I can imagine rearrangements of some songs being performed by other bands coming out decent.
1
View Album
Mon May 08 2023
Pretzel Logic
Steely Dan
There’s no doubting the talent of the band’s members or the uniqueness of their sound. Just lacks the needed edge to match my tastes.
3
View Album
Tue May 09 2023
Blur
Blur
I love the iconoclastic attitude, and liked the songs that evoked Bowie, but I mostly found this album to be work to get through.
2
View Album
Wed May 10 2023
Vauxhall And I
Morrissey
Had me at “The More You Ignore Me, the Closer I Get.” Love me some Morrisey!
4
View Album
Thu May 11 2023
Rhythm Nation 1814
Janet Jackson
Much to like. Pretty dark and relevant today (thinking especially of “Living in a World They Didn’t Make” and it’s ending).
3
View Album
Fri May 12 2023
Post Orgasmic Chill
Skunk Anansie
I can’t figure out if this is a 2 or a 3! The ballads kill me, but the high energy stuff (and the occasional slap bass) is pretty good. 2.5.
2
View Album
Mon May 15 2023
The Man Machine
Kraftwerk
2
View Album
Tue May 16 2023
Band On The Run
Paul McCartney and Wings
I can’t explain it, but I was sort of dreading listening to this one. I’m a Beatles fan, but not a solo McCartney fan. That said, in the end the album was not as painful as I expected. It was mostly pleasing. And I’m also glad to move on.
3
View Album
Wed May 17 2023
Leftism
Leftfield
3
View Album
Thu May 18 2023
Come Away With Me
Norah Jones
Forgot about “The Long Day is Over.” Goosebumps.
4
View Album
Fri May 19 2023
Hot Rats
Frank Zappa
Nice jamming. I enjoyed it.
3
View Album
Mon May 22 2023
Murmur
R.E.M.
4
View Album
Tue May 23 2023
The Chronic
Dr. Dre
3
View Album
Wed May 24 2023
A Wizard, A True Star
Todd Rundgren
What a bizarre album. It’s a tale of two halves, with the second half being much better than the first and nearly redeeming it. Overall, not my jam.
2
View Album
Thu May 25 2023
Cee-Lo Green... Is The Soul Machine
Cee Lo Green
3
View Album
Fri May 26 2023
Led Zeppelin
Led Zeppelin
3
View Album
Mon May 29 2023
If I Should Fall From Grace With God
The Pogues
That was surprising and delightful!
4
View Album
Tue May 30 2023
Crosby, Stills & Nash
Crosby, Stills & Nash
Spun the vinyl. Side A is good (3 stars). Side B is brilliant (5 stars), starting with one of my favorites: Wooden Ships.
4
View Album
Thu Jun 01 2023
Dare!
The Human League
“Don’t You Want Me” is a classic, but I found myself mildly annoyed and agitated through the rest.
2
View Album
Fri Jun 02 2023
White Blood Cells
The White Stripes
Plenty to like, but I just can’t get excited about The White Stripes in the same way I can other Jack White projects.
3
View Album
Mon Jun 05 2023
Bringing It All Back Home
Bob Dylan
I loved this collection of songs!
5
View Album
Tue Jun 06 2023
The Cars
The Cars
Full of hits I recognize, appreciate, and like but don’t love.
3
View Album
Wed Jun 07 2023
That's The Way Of The World
Earth, Wind & Fire
It started so good (Shining Star) and ended so badly (See the Light). Love the hits but just can’t hang with the rest.
2
View Album
Thu Jun 08 2023
Tom Tom Club
Tom Tom Club
As much as I want to give members of Talking Heads all the stars, I can not. Decent to work to, but kind of repetitive and boring.
2
View Album
Fri Jun 09 2023
90
808 State
2
View Album
Tue Jun 13 2023
Tusk
Fleetwood Mac
Gave this one two listens, as the first was while driving and I couldn’t hear everything as closely as I would have liked. I was thinking three stars at the time, but a few songs grabbed my attention and made me want to give it a closer listen. So, got home and spun the vinyl (inherited from Anita’s mom) and I’m glad I did. This is a solid record with some lovely songs beyond the great “Tusk.” I anticipate more listens in the future.
4
View Album
Wed Jun 14 2023
Slanted And Enchanted
Pavement
3
View Album
Thu Jun 15 2023
Armed Forces
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
Always interesting. Loved the hits, but also quirky tunes like “Moods for Moderns.”
4
View Album
Fri Jun 16 2023
Joan Armatrading
Joan Armatrading
I’m so torn on this. After track one I was thinking, “oh wow, this’ll be a five!” Later I was down to a four, and ended thinking three. I love the voice and instrumentation and creativity. Just think ultimately I like it in small doses.
4
View Album
Mon Jun 19 2023
Red Headed Stranger
Willie Nelson
What a clear and memorable voice. “Can I Sleep In Your Arms” was a highlight.
3
View Album
Mon Jul 10 2023
Hunting High And Low
a-ha
An extra star for track one but the rest…ugh.
2
View Album
Tue Jul 11 2023
A Rush Of Blood To The Head
Coldplay
A lot to love beyond the hits - most notably the album opener. They were certainly on fire as a band when they recorded this.
5
View Album
Fri Jul 14 2023
Suicide
Suicide
The orgasmic moaning in “Girl” made me even more uncomfortable than the droaning synth on every track. Ugh.
1
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Mon Jul 17 2023
Music in Exile
Songhoy Blues
Very nice!
4
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Tue Jul 18 2023
1999
Prince
Great to listen to on a bike ride. Not sure I’d dig it as much if I was only listening. The last song is one for the ages - hilarious.
4
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Wed Jul 19 2023
Beyond Skin
Nitin Sawhney
Enjoyed working to it but not something I see myself returning to.
3
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Thu Jul 20 2023
This Is Fats Domino
Fats Domino
Couldn’t find this exact album on Spotify, so I listened to “Fats Domino Swings” and enjoyed it quite a lot. In particular loved “Ain’t That A Shame.”
4
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Fri Jul 21 2023
Talking Book
Stevie Wonder
Everything came together for the great “Superstition,” but the rest of the album sounded like a jumbled mess to me. So much going on musically, but the instruments weren’t working together in my mind. For instance, “Maybe Your Baby” drove me nuts for the fact the drums were not driving it along and there were so many instruments soloing at the same time. It could have been so much better! The rest didn’t drive me nuts because I didn’t hear the great potential; it was simply an unpleasant experience.
2
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Mon Jul 24 2023
Out Of The Blue
Electric Light Orchestra
I appreciate the creativity but I just can’t get into this at all.
2
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Tue Jul 25 2023
Either Or
Elliott Smith
A beautiful and haunting record from start to end.
4
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Wed Jul 26 2023
S&M
Metallica
An excellent way to listen to Metallica! I enjoyed the whole show, appreciating the symphony parts throughout.
5
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Thu Jul 27 2023
Rejoicing In The Hands
Devendra Banhart
Reminds me of Shakey Graves, with less energy. Very nice and I’ll be listening to more.
4
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Fri Jul 28 2023
Live At The Star Club, Hamburg
Jerry Lee Lewis
Great energy, as I expected.
3
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Mon Jul 31 2023
Aladdin Sane
David Bowie
Great album! Loved the piano snd recording quality.
4
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Wed Aug 02 2023
Sticky Fingers
The Rolling Stones
Spun it on vinyl and it sounded oh-so-good!
5
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Thu Aug 03 2023
Palo Congo
Sabu
Very enjoyable. Loved the singing and instrumentation.
3
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Mon Aug 07 2023
Let's Stay Together
Al Green
I didn’t want to listen, and took days to hit play, but then immediately liked it.
3
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Tue Aug 08 2023
The Clash
The Clash
I liked it, but was mostly struck by how much better they got.
3
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Wed Aug 09 2023
Pelican West
Haircut 100
Nice sound. Fun to work to.
3
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Thu Aug 10 2023
Peggy Suicide
Julian Cope
At times I felt Nick Cave vibes, but never as good. I appreciate this record, but I don’t anticipate another listen.
3
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Fri Aug 11 2023
Want One
Rufus Wainwright
Interesting and unique sound and vibe. I enjoyed this.
3
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Mon Aug 14 2023
Reggatta De Blanc
The Police
I didn’t give this the attention it deserved, but 1 1/2 rounds in the car as background while I chatted with Leo makes me confident that it’s a solid three. I hope to return to it on some future day and listen more closely.
3
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Wed Aug 16 2023
Third/Sister Lovers
Big Star
Wow, I really disliked this album. It made me angry that no band I was ever in got a record deal.
1
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Thu Aug 17 2023
The Gilded Palace Of Sin
The Flying Burrito Brothers
Súper good and a great 1001 connection as I discovered the song “Sin City” on a previously assigned Billy Bragg record and loved it.
4
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Fri Aug 18 2023
Pink Flag
Wire
I never heard of Wire and I immediately recognized how influential they were. When I heard “Three Girl Rhumba” I immediately thought of Elastica’s “Connection.” I was shocked to hear “Strange” and realize this was not an REM song. They covered Wire! I’m a fan now!
4
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Mon Aug 21 2023
Lost In The Dream
The War On Drugs
I’m thankful every time I listen!
4
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Tue Aug 22 2023
American IV: The Man Comes Around
Johnny Cash
Just fantastic.
5
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Wed Aug 23 2023
KIWANUKA
Michael Kiwanuka
Very nice. Loved the production/sound. Excited about the song “Hero”.
4
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Thu Aug 24 2023
Next
The Sensational Alex Harvey Band
Some shocking stuff-notably “Gang Bang.” First half beat the second, and I mostly enjoyed it.
3
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Fri Aug 25 2023
Crossing the Red Sea With the Adverts
The Adverts
Good energy.
3
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Mon Aug 28 2023
Brothers
The Black Keys
Solid album, although not my favorite by them.
3
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Tue Aug 29 2023
Are You Experienced
Jimi Hendrix
The band was definitely on fire for this record. I was delighted to be reminded of the song “Highway Chile”!
5
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Wed Aug 30 2023
Ingenue
k.d. lang
Nothing like the awesome “Reintarnation,” but some good, well performed tunes.
3
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Thu Aug 31 2023
Butterfly
Mariah Carey
I recognize the talent but just can’t get behind it. Just wanted it to end, mostly.
2
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Fri Sep 01 2023
Head Hunters
Herbie Hancock
Enjoyable.
3
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Mon Sep 04 2023
Stardust
Willie Nelson
Smooth as usual. Was delighted by “Unchained Melody.”
3
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Tue Sep 05 2023
Jazz Samba
Stan Getz
Nice and smoooth!
3
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Tue Sep 12 2023
Raw Power
The Stooges
Love Iggy’s energy and the subversive nature of it.
3
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Wed Sep 13 2023
Blood Sugar Sex Magik
Red Hot Chili Peppers
An easy 5 stars. A pivotal album in my youth.
5
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Thu Sep 14 2023
Traffic
Traffic
I never heard of them and I admit I came in skeptical, but this band captures a lot of what I love about 60s music: poetic lyrics, good vibes, harmonies, creativity, harpsichord… I enjoyed it!
4
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Fri Sep 15 2023
At Mister Kelly's
Sarah Vaughan
Very nice live performance!
4
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Mon Sep 18 2023
Liquid Swords
GZA
Consistent and there’s much to like.
3
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Tue Sep 19 2023
Purple Rain
Prince
Great album and of course a fantastic ending.
4
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Wed Sep 20 2023
Off The Wall
Michael Jackson
I liked the first half. The second half was quite unpalatable for me.
3
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Thu Sep 21 2023
Scum
Napalm Death
Thought #1: initially enjoyed the fuzzy sound of the instruments, but the album wore on me quick. Thought #2: if Golem from Lord of the Rings ever had a chance at being a singer in a band, it was with this band.
2
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Mon Sep 25 2023
War
U2
So many gems! Easy 5 from me.
5
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Tue Sep 26 2023
Back To Black
Amy Winehouse
Such a voice. Many great songs on this one.
4
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Wed Sep 27 2023
The Scream
Siouxsie And The Banshees
Boy you hear the seeds of Sleater Kinney on this record! I was immediately excited by what I was hearing, but it started to wear on me as it went on. I’ll love this one in spurts!
3
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Thu Sep 28 2023
Doolittle
Pixies
Loved it. I can’t believe I missed this band in the 90s. It’s so up my alley!
4