Licensed To Ill
Beastie BoysWhat kind of elder millennial would I be if I didn’t like this album?! I knew several songs already.
What kind of elder millennial would I be if I didn’t like this album?! I knew several songs already.
This was very interesting! I listened to this while running errands in my car, over the span of two days. It was fun and engaging to have on. This isn't the type of thing I normally listen to but I enjoyed it. It was so musically dense, I feel like I need to listen to it again at least once.
One of my favourite things on the internet is a photo of a dog inside someone’s car, and there’s a sign in the window that says “Please don’t break the window. The A/C is on. He has water and is listening to…” and someone photoshopped it to say “Steely Dan.” I don’t know why, but the concept of a dog liking Steely Dan always gives me a chuckle, even though I’ve never listened to Steely Dan before today. I was excited to get this and finally give see if that dog was onto something. For me, it never rose past generic dad rock. I’m sure it sounded generic because of everything that has come since, but it just wasn’t special enough for me to want to listen to again.
My second Radiohead album on this journey. I like Radiohead but have really only listened to the hits and Kid A. I liked In Rainbows when I got it 6 months ago but now totally forget what it sounded like. Anyway, I liked this. Most of it was a little too slow and dreary for me to listen to regularly, but it's good stuff regardless. "Just" was the highlight for me.
I was excited about this one after reading Apple Music's little write-up for it. I liked it, but didn't love it. At times I really, really liked it, and at other times, I felt like it was ostentatious hipster trash.
Funk, not really my thing but I didn’t mind listening. Pretty upbeat and fun.
I liked it as far as hip hop goes but probably wouldn’t listen again.
What kind of elder millennial would I be if I didn’t like this album?! I knew several songs already.
Enjoyed it a lot more than I thought I would.
Didn’t really like it, and I thought I would. Too many long ass guitar solos. I did like “I’m a Man.”
Wasn’t expecting to enjoy this so much. I especially enjoyed “Watermelon Man.”
I had listened to it once before. I like it, but not as much as DSOTM and The Wall.
I hated this. It was the most bland, generic rock. The one meagre highlight was “Skuka,” but it’s not going on my highlights playlist because it still sucked. I want these 54 minutes of my life back.
Not my taste, but it was an energetic album from start to finish.
Wow! I’ve always meant to listen to the Talking Heads and I’m glad this 1001 album endeavour finally forced me to. This is the first album I’m giving 5/5 because I will definitely listen to it again. When it finished playing, I let it start again. Loved it from start to finish.
I’ve never been a fan of Elton John and this album didn’t change that. Every song sounded like a variation of Tiny Dancer. Thankful this was over in 45min.
Finally an album I don’t have a strong opinion on either way! This was delightfully just okay. I thought I was starting to hate everything (except Talking Heads). I’d never heard of this band but somehow I recognized “Two Weeks.” Not sure how. The songs on this album are a little too slow for me, but I did really like “Foreground.”
Great album! I liked this better than Physical Graffiti and I already knew the more famous songs. “The Battle of Evermore” was a highlight for me. I don’t think I’d listen to it again but I did enjoy it today.
Kind of reminded me of a lighter, more ska version of The Clash. I liked a couple of songs but probably wouldn’t listen to it again.
Interesting mix of jazz and new wave…with a random hip hop song mixed in?? Each song was quite different which I appreciated, and it was mostly engaging. “My Ever Changing Moods” was familiar. I enjoyed it but probably wouldn’t listen again.
A refreshing change of pace. I don’t listen to a lot of country, but this is the type of country I like (traditional/honky tonk). I thought this was a solid album from start to finish. I’m not sure if I’d listen to it again but I did really like it.
Boisterous and fun all the way through. I’d never heard of this band or any of their songs, but I enjoyed this album. It did start to feel a little long by the end, probably just because this style of music doesn’t lend itself to a marathon listening session, but I thought every song was strong. Probably wouldn’t listen again but glad I know about this band now. I would see them live if given the chance.
Ehhh…I wanted to like this because I dig this type of music in principle, but the prolonged jamming doesn’t do it for me. The whole thing really dragged for me, and I started to lose my patience. This album is probably something that is better enjoyed live. Technically-speaking however, it’s a great album.
My 19th album and the first one (of about 65) that I already own and/or listen to. This one is an automatic 5 stars since I already listen to it on a regular basis. Not much to say about it that hasn’t been said many times already. Although there are a couple songs I don’t care for (Songbird, Oh Daddy), they’re still good songs.
Pretty good… I don’t really like rap, but I did like “Execution of a Chump.” I understand that this album was a pioneer in early rap, but it was kind of repetitive after awhile. Unlikely that I would listen to it again.
Wow, I really did not like this. When I saw it was a pop album from 1968, I thought we were golden. Not so much. I’d never heard of Scott Walker and reading through his Wikipedia page, it’s surprising (and maybe embarrassing) that I hadn’t. “Next” was the bright spot for me on this album. I would not choose to listen to this again…as, uh, unique as it was.
Some of the songs on this album are iconic, so I think this album is required listening for any music fan. I probably wouldn’t listen to it again, but I’m glad I finally did listen to it.
Long ago, for some dumb reason, I had decided that I didn’t like Rod Stewart. This was despite not knowing literally any of his music or even knowing what his music sounded like. I don’t know why I came to this conclusion and this album proves that I was an idiot (although I already knew that). This was great, I really enjoyed it. I’m not a big fan of his voice and so that dissuades me from pursuing more Rod Stewart, but I’ll be adding a couple songs from this onto my 1001 highlights playlist.
I was not expecting the “West Side Story meets 1970s hard rock” sound at all. I guess now looking at the album art above this text box, it’s not accidental. I enjoyed this album. Kinda fun listening to “School’s Out” on in June, too.
I took the advice of the Apple Music writers and put this on in the background while I was getting ready for work. By the time I got into the car, I was hooked. Loved it. I especially liked “The Jezebel Spirit.” It kind of reminds me “Frontier Psychiatrist” by The Avalanches.
I appreciate the skill behind this album as it’s undeniable, but I’m not into nu-metal. I don’t mind SOAD but I can only take them in small doses. The one saving grace today is that I took the day off work and thus wasn’t playing this in my car like usual. I might have driven off a cliff if I was trapped in a car with this album.
Pet Shop Boys are very much in my musical wheelhouse so I was excited about this album. I’m not sure what it is about PSB, though, because they just don’t do it for me. I listened to a mix of their stuff recently and just didn’t connect with it, much like this album. I feel like they take themselves too seriously or something. I did really like the song “To Face the Truth.” I listened to this a second time and liked it a little more, but was still overall left feeling “meh.”
Going by Apple Music’s description of this being a cross between U2 and Coldplay, I figured I would either love it or hate it. IMHO it’s much more like Coldplay than U2. This album won me over, though. I was thinking it was a strong 4, but by the time I got halfway through, it became a 5. I look forward to listening to this again. I had never heard of this band before so this is a fun surprise.
Ugh, David Bowie. If there’s an afterlife, I’ll probably be punished for how much I dislike David Bowie. I understand his contribution to music, and I’m sure there are musicians I love who were heavily inspired by Bowie, but no thanks, we can agree to disagree. I don’t understand how his music is so popular, honestly. That cover of “Across the Universe” probably took a year off my life.
The artistry of this album must be lost on me, because all I heard was noise and yelling. No thanks.
This type of music is like balm for my weary soul and made for pleasant listening on my morning commute today. “Wildwood Flower” was the highlight for me. I don’t think I’d listen to this album again but it was nice this morning.
This was highly enjoyable. I preferred the first half of this album but the second half was great, too.
I was not a fan of this. Three overly long songs doth not an album make. I didn’t find the songs interesting or engaging. I didn’t hate it, but I was glad when it was over.
This is the second album I’ve been assigned that I have listened to in the past. This album is great. I do think the songs all more or less sound the same, but they’re so good that I don’t really care.
This is the third album I’ve been assigned that I had heard before (I’m keeping track for my own sake). I had listened to this as part of my pre-pandemic mission of listening to classic rock albums I was unfamiliar with. I think I enjoyed this a bit more today, compared to the first time I heard it. It’s hard to deny Rush’s talent. I don’t think I’d listen to it on my own but I enjoyed listening again today.
I was completely neutral on this. It never grabbed my attention positively or negatively.
Thanks to the kind person who made a playlist of this album on YouTube, as it was not available on Apple Music in the USA. This album was kind of amusing and felt very, very American. I don't know what I was expecting, but it wasn't songs about bed bugs, boll weevils, and cocaine. I felt the same as most other albums on this list: I liked it, but I probably wouldn’t listen again. I had never heard of Ramblin’ Jack Elliott but I can see how and why his music was influential at the time.
I really liked this! Every song was different and engaging and just overall pleasant. I didn’t think it was necessarily groundbreaking but I do think it’s really well done for 90s power pop. On my first listen, I was thinking I would give it a 4, but after listening to twice, I’m giving it a 5 because I plan to keep it on my phone.
Automatic five stars because I own this album. I bought this during a class trip to Ottawa in 2002, I’m pretty sure from the Rideau Centre. These days, I don’t listen to it often but I do still like it. I don’t think there’s one weak song on the album. This is the fourth album that I already knew before today.
Three great singles, followed by 50 minutes of filler, including four minutes of a "thank you" track that ends up coming across as self-congratulatory. The filler wasn't terrible, but I was glad when it was over. I can understand why this album was eventually taken off the list. While it might have been successful at the time, there's nothing influential past track 3.
For once, I don’t know what to say about an album. I’ve somehow managed to avoid listening to The Smiths in my 36 years, except “How Soon is Now?” (a great song). I expected to like this and I think I did? Maybe? I actually listened to it twice because I couldn’t tell after the first time through.
Someone I really admired as a teenager loves this album so I was hyped when I saw it this morning. However, as soon as it started, I knew it wasn’t for me. I appreciate the artistry and especially the lyrics (“I’ll tell you all my secrets, but I lie about my past”) but I cannot get past his voice. Giant deterrent for what is otherwise brilliant stuff. Disappointed.
I really liked this. I thought every song was strong; there wasn’t a single one that I thought stuck out as weak. I would definitely listen to this again.
My first repeat artist…after 43 albums. I liked this. Having just learned to Licensed to Ill recently, it is obvious their sound had matured in the eight years between that and this. I appreciated the instrumental interludes between the rapping. As much as I like The Beastie Boys, they’re a bit much when it’s track after track. That said, I do prefer the lesser refined sound from Licensed to Ill.
Excuse me while I diss this guy. I’m not a fan of Jimi Hendrix AT ALL. The only reason I’m not giving this a 1 (my “it shouldn’t have been included” rating) is because music critics and time clearly feel otherwise.
This was pretty good. I was hoping I would like it more but it landed solidly in the “good but not great” zone for me. I also wasn’t a fan of the production of this album.
Automatic 5 stars because I already own this album, and it’s one of my favourites. I love Oasis. There’s not a single weak song on this album. This is the fifth album I’ve been assigned that I already knew.
Second repeat artist in one week, and I’ve rated less than 50 albums total. Interesting how the algorithm works sometimes. That said, the first time I got a Talking Heads album, it was my introduction to the band, and it’s easily the best thing I’ve discovered on this journey thus far. I was pretty happy to see another Talking Heads album this morning. I loved it and will definitely be adding it to my phone. Oh, and thanks to the generator for giving me Fear of Music, My Life in the Bush of Ghosts, and this in their proper chronological order. Nice it worked out like that!
It’s hard to deny the talent behind this album, I’m just not really a fan of Jane’s Addiction.
Well this was different! I listened to most of this on a summer Saturday with the windows open. This album was made for listening in warm, fresh air…preferably with a drink in hand. I felt whisked away to a tropical place. I probably wouldn’t listen to this again but this was pleasant.
I wasn’t really a fan of this. I was hoping there would be more songs like “Ray of Light” but that song is an outlier. I didn’t hate it but I wouldn’t want to listen again.
Five stars because I already own this and listen to it. What can you even say about an album like this?
I listen to these albums on my 6am drives to work and this woke me up! As much as I love yesterday's album, Dark Side of the Moon, it is not 6am driving-to-work music. This is. I enjoyed this a lot.
I disagree that I needed to hear this album before I die. My life was just fine without it. I’m not a fan of Rod Stewart’s voice nor this brand of blues rock.
This was alright. I preferred the back half of the album, starting with “River Euphrates.” I’ve always meant to listen to Pixies so it was good to do that…however, I’m not sure I’d purposely listen to this again. I think I’m going to prefer Doolittle, based on the tracks I know.
This is the third Led Zeppelin I’ve listened to for the purposes of broadening my horizons and listening to the best of classic rock. Three albums in and I still feel the same: they’re good, but I prefer them as background music.
Maybe I’m just in a great mood, but I loved this and would definitely listen to it again. This project is making me realize that old school country is an entire genre I’ve ignored, for shame.
This is not my taste in music whatsoever.
I thought I was going to like this, but sadly, I did not. It was too heavy on the vocals and the music felt like more of an after-thought. Too bad.
Well…I didn’t hate it? I can’t see myself listening to this again but I didn’t mind it. I enjoyed “I’m Down to my Last Cigarette.” Also, hard to deny how nice her voice is. She reminds of Jewel, but more country. Nice to see more Canadian talent on here.
Thom Yorke and Beck had a baby... and it's Rufus Wainwright. I might have liked this album more with a different (IE non-monotone, whiny) singer, but overall it was too slow for my tastes regardless. Wainwright's singing really started to get on my nerves a few songs into this.
My generator algorithm loves Pink Floyd, apparently. I’ve gotten 3 of their 4 included albums, and this is only album #62 today. This is not a complaint. I recently saw Classic Albums Live perform this album, so I didn’t do a full listen again today. I highly recommend going to see CAL if you’re in Canada or the USA. Anyway, this album is amazing and it’s obviously an automatic 5 stars. This is the 7th album the generator has given me that I already knew.
Can we take a moment to respect the fact that 60-70 years ago, it was totally cool to call your album “The [amazing/ incredible/ magnificent/ unbelievable/ strongly positive adjective] [Name]”? Nowadays, the only person who dares compliment themselves so highly is Kanye West, and we all side eye him a bit for it. Anyway, I enjoyed this! I like jazz but I find it slips into the background for me after a few minutes. However, whenever my attention was brought back to the music, I liked what I was hearing.
Fuck Eric Clapton.
This is one of those albums I’ve always meant to listen to as I remember all the hoopla surrounding it after it came out. As much as I appreciate her talent, ultimately, this album just isn’t my taste. Good to finally listen to it, though!
Hmm I wasn’t really a fan of this, but it was okay.
This was very interesting! I listened to this while running errands in my car, over the span of two days. It was fun and engaging to have on. This isn't the type of thing I normally listen to but I enjoyed it. It was so musically dense, I feel like I need to listen to it again at least once.
This was okay. I’m not really into Black Sabbath but it was interesting hearing what they sounded like on their debut album.
Ugh. Ever since I knew this album was in the book, I have dreaded this day. As big of a Beatles and Paul McCartney fan as I am, I loathe the song "Band on the Run." I loathe it so much that when I saw Sir Paul perform it live, I used the opportunity to use the restroom. I felt similarly about the rest of the album, with a couple songs I didn't mind. It makes no logical sense for me to dislike this album and yet here we are. I can only assume there is some unhappy childhood memory baked into hearing my parents listen to this. Pro-tip: blaming your parents for your mysterious quirks and shortcomings always works.
One of my favourite things on the internet is a photo of a dog inside someone’s car, and there’s a sign in the window that says “Please don’t break the window. The A/C is on. He has water and is listening to…” and someone photoshopped it to say “Steely Dan.” I don’t know why, but the concept of a dog liking Steely Dan always gives me a chuckle, even though I’ve never listened to Steely Dan before today. I was excited to get this and finally give see if that dog was onto something. For me, it never rose past generic dad rock. I’m sure it sounded generic because of everything that has come since, but it just wasn’t special enough for me to want to listen to again.
This was okay. I didn’t dislike it but none of the songs stood out to me. It was very much a product of its time and I was never a big early 90s grunge fan.
I have a lot of time for Johnny Cash so it was a bummer this album was only 34 minutes long. I appreciated the down-to-earth way he spoke to the prisoners and I’m sure they appreciated it, too. Their excitement during this album is palpable.
Outside of the singles that I already knew, I didn’t really care for the rest of the songs.
If you want to know what Pink Floyd would have sounded like if they started in the 90s instead, listen to this album. It was an interesting journey from start to finish as I had no idea what to expect next. Probably wouldn’t listen again.
Timeless??? I beg to differ. This album sucked the life out of most of my morning… keyword: sucked. There is no earthly reason for the opening track to be 21 minutes long, it could have accomplished the same atmosphere and mood in far less time. Overall, this album was way too long. I would have hated it much less had it not gone on and on and on with mediocre beats and obnoxious singing.
I enjoyed this. I listened to it this morning on my drive to work, thinking about how pleasing it is to the senses. This album is comfy, if that makes sense. I really don’t listen to a lot of jazz so I’m not sure if I’d listen to this again, but it was extremely pleasant today.
Interesting that I got this about a month after Surfer Rosa. I was not expecting to get this album so soon. The randomness of the algorithm continues to amuse me. As I predicted a month ago, I did like this album better. Their sound is a little more developed, a little more cohesive. I already knew three songs. I really like “Here Comes Your Man” (new to me) but has anyone else noticed that it sounds a lot like REM’s “Stand”? I’m torn about whether I’d keep this on my phone and listen to it again (the difference between 4 and 5 stars for me). I guess however I feel about it tomorrow at 5:30AM will be the answer…
I liked this, but every song started to sound the same after awhile. The only real standout track for me was “Happiness.” I was optimistic about this album at first, but every song felt like it hit the same mood, so I doubt I would listen again. Also not a fan of her breathy singing.
Meh. I didn’t realize that this was Rod Stewart on vocals and I didn’t like it because it sounded too much like Rod Stewart. Is this guy everywhere?! He keeps showing up unannounced and unwanted. The further I get into this project, the more I realize I’m not a big fan of traditional rock, or blues… or rock with blues in their mouths, and when they rock, they shoot blues at you.
This is the second Tom Waits album I’ve been assigned. Again, I cannot get past the gravelly voice. I liked this even album less than Rain Dogs. Not much to say other than I was basically clenching my teeth to get through this.
See, this is what I love about this project (or this journey, if you prefer). There is no way in hell I would have heard of Khaled, much less this album, had I not embarked on this generator life. If you keep an open mind, you can be rewarded with interesting, worldly music like this. I enjoyed listening to this. It seemed like it pulled from all sorts of different genres and it felt upbeat and positive. I can’t say I would listen to this again (especially as it’s not on Apple Music), but I’m in a better mood having listened to this.
While I’m sure this album deserves its place on this list, I’m not into rap and this album didn’t change that. Out of all the rappers around, Jay-Z is probably the most tolerable to my ears but diss tracks and bragging aren’t my jam.
I expected to dislike this, but was pleasantly surprised. I wouldn’t listen to it again, but it was alright.
While no particular song stood out to me, I liked this. It was fun and upbeat. I preferred the music more than the singing. The singing was...a lot at times. Did his singing remind anyone else of Shakira? At times, it was so uncanny that it was distracting.
I feel like I should have a lot to say about this album but I don’t really. I could easily hear the Beach Boys’ influence in this album. As a fan of the Beach Boys, I liked it for that. I did enjoy this album in general but doubtful I would listen again. River Song was nice.
I’m not sure I agree on the inclusion of this album except for as an early garage band prototype. This music is up my alley but I thought other bands have done the covers better (namely, the Beatles). The original songs were forgettable. Overall, this was okay and I didn’t mind it.
Automatic five stars since I own this album and have listened to it many times. I adore this album. This is the ninth album I’ve already heard (just released I had miscounted earlier, ugh). I was a little late to this album as I only discovered Kacey Musgraves in late 2018. Someone had added “Oh, What a World” onto a shared playlist I was on, and it was love at first listen. I’ve been a big fan of ever since.
I liked this. What do you even say about an album that has “Respect” on it? I don’t think I’d listen to this album again, but I enjoyed it all the same.
I was surprised to read that this album came out in the 70s. To me it sounded like it was from the 90s, plucked from a Lilith Fair lineup. I listened more closely after learning of my error. It reminded me a lot of Tracy Chapman also. While I appreciate her talent and enjoyed the album, it’s doubtful I would listen to this again.
It’s tragic I didn’t really care for this, because theoretically I should love it. I love 80s new wave synth music and yet I never engaged meaningfully with this album. I’m open to giving it another chance but I found it boring on the first listen.
I like the Clash and it was good to hear their first album. I prefer London Calling but it’s worthwhile hearing this album, too.
This was okay. It felt very 90s to me. Based on the description, I expected to like it, but I didn’t really care for it.
I've long been a fan of the The Mamas and the Papas. My parents were fans so I grew up listening to them, and eventually became a fan in my own right. That said, I've only ever owned a greatest hits album, so a few of these songs were new to me. I was familiar with other bands' versions of "You Baby" and "Do You Wanna Dance," so it was fun to hear their take on them. It’s actually mind-blowing to me that this was their debut album. They weren’t new to making music, but it’s still crazy that they were this good from the start.
I liked this! Also, I had no idea they started in the greatest city of all time (but I might be biased since I live in that city). I did find the songs a bit repetitive but imagining how this would have sounded when it was released was satisfying.
Good to finally listen to this all the way through! I’ve been a fan of the Smashing Pumpkins forever, but mainly just their singles. I’ve even seen them live twice without ever having listened to a whole album of theirs. Oops? Anyway, outside of the hits I already knew, I actually wasn’t super interested in the rest of it. Oops?
I’ve owned this album forever but I have to admit, I don’t love the entire thing. There’s about six songs I really, really like (“Tomorrow Comes Today” is legitimately one of my favourite songs) but the rest of it, I could take or leave.
I was excited about this, after really liking Wilco’s contribution to Mermaid Avenue. This was alright! I wasn’t blown away, though. It kind of sounded like generic indie pop-rock to me.
Primal Scream is by far the worst thing I’ve had to subject myself to during this journey. That said, this wasn’t as awful as Vanishing Point, but it’s not much better. The first half of the album was better. I didn’t even mind some of the songs. But by the second half, they were wearing out their welcome and it dragged. Please tell me this is the last Primal Scream album I’ll have to listen to? I cannot understand what anyone sees in this music. The highlight of this album is the cute little sun/plankton blob thing on the cover art.
This was alright. I’ve never listened to Elvis Costello before so I was eager to get in my car and start listening. It felt somewhat repetitive to me but I didn’t hate it. I just can’t see myself listening to it again. Not a big fan of his voice. The only standout track for me was "Moods for Moderns," and I think that’s because it reminded me of Talking Heads.
I liked these chill vibes. Really pleasant for driving around and doing housework, which is what I was doing as I listened to this. Probably wouldn’t listen again but I liked this.
I liked this! I’ve never heard of this band before but this was really pleasant.
I liked this a lot! I think I'm starting to become a fan of jazz. I would consider listening to this again because it was so fun. If the rating system allowed for half stars, I'd give this 4.5 stars.
While I would consider myself a fan of their album Funeral, I never listened to Arcade Fire after that. This was okay. I'm not really into Win's singing style, and the recent allegations of sexual misconduct made it hard to WANT to listen to this. I try to like things as I listen to them, but I couldn't do that today.
I can only stand Bob Dylan in small doses, and this was one longgggg dose. There were a couple songs I didn’t mind, but overall, I was waiting for this to end.
This was alright! I've never listened to Grateful Dead before, and this album wasn't what I was expecting; it was much lighter. I do like this brand of light acoustic rock with folk and country influences. A couple songs towards the end caught my attention but overall, I found this to be kind of bland and forgettable.
I liked this! I probably wouldn’t listen again but I enjoyed the uptempo, positive beats.
I had never heard of John Grant before today. After doing some reading of his Wikipedia page, I am sympathetic to his difficult life. However, I hate his music. The goofy lyrics were a huge turnoff and every song sounded the same to me. I got to the last track and had to shut it off. It’s a miracle I even made it that far.
This type of thing is definitely my jam. I'm surprised I hadn't heard of this band already. I found this album really pleasant to listen to.
I didn't really care for Pretzel Logic so it wasn't without some trepidation that I hit play on this album. However, I was pleasantly surprised. I liked this a lot better, but I'm still a little confused why Steely Dan is so popular. I liked "Bodhisattva" quite a bit.
While I like Radiohead, I haven't listened to a ton of their stuff. I've mostly only ever been a fan of Kid A, and the singles from OK Computer. I was aware of this album but hadn't listened to it. I liked it a lot! I don't think I'd add it into my regular rotation of music, but if a Radiohead mood struck, I wouldn't hesitate to listen to this again.
This one surprised me! I really didn’t expect to like this so much because I’m not usually a fan of hip-hop. That said, I preferred the first couple songs and the last couple songs; the stuff in the middle wasn’t my thing.
I just had a Wilco album two weeks ago, so the memory of the other one was still fresh. I think I liked this one better, or maybe I’m just getting more familiar with their sound.
I wanted to like this. I like post-punk and I like what was going on with music in general in the late 70s, but this album just didn’t do anything for me. I didn’t dislike it but I wasn’t particularly into it, either.
Unfortunately I knew as soon as this started that I was not going to enjoy it, and I was mostly correct. One song saved this from being 1 star for me: “There She Goes, My Beautiful Word” and to a lesser extent, “Nature Boy.” The rest of it was not my taste.
God it’s nice to get an album you’re already familiar with and that you whole-heartedly agree should be on the list.
Sinatra is alright to my ears. This album went by very fast. I had it on the background and it was kind of hard to tell the songs apart, they all kind of blurred into each other. It was pleasant but I wouldn’t listen to it again.
I liked this...maybe more than The Queen is Dead? I dig the 80s-ness of The Smiths.
This is definitely not something I would have listened to on my own, so I appreciated it for that. It wasn’t really my taste, though.
At first, I thought this sounded like an interesting cross between Oasis and U2, but it quickly devolved in boring drivel. I doubt this album would be included if the book wasn't written by Brits.
This was super pleasant to listen to. Hard to believe it’s from 2005, it sounded decades older.
This was pretty good! I was surprised I wasn’t more familiar with this band, but I only knew “Time of the Season.” I would listen to this again.
This was briefly engaging in spurts but overall, not my thing. Literally needed to take ibuprofen towards the end.
A few years ago, before I knew about Dimery’s list or this website, I made my own list of classic albums I’d never listened to. Born to Run was on my list and in fact, was the very first one I listened to. I didn’t use star ratings but it looks like I probably would have given it a 3. After hearing it again today, 3 is about right.
Take a drink every time you hear “yeahhhh boiiiiii!!” Just make sure you update your will first.
It was okay but the misogyny was too much for me. I’m docking a star because it’s the only power I have over this 32 year old album.
To me, this just sounded like a subpar Beatles/John Lennon knockoff, about 5 years too late. I wasn't a fan.
I didn't mind this! This is not the type of thing I normally listen to, so I always appreciate hearing something different. Some of the songs were pretty catchy.
My late father was a big fan of Elvis, so it was nice to be reminded of Dad today. I wonder what he would have said about this album. I knew two songs from this album. I’m not a big Elvis person and I think this was the first time I’d ever deliberately listened to him. Elvis is one of those cultural things that I feel like you don’t need to even have an opinion on. He’s his own thing entirely.
Pre-listening thought: YES, I’ve been excited to get this. Post-listening thought: HELL YEAH!
Every time I get another album from a British band I’ve never heard of, I groan a little bit. However, this album surprised me. I would listen to this again.
The word that kept popping into my head as I listened to was “visceral.” This is an album I’ve always meant to listen to and it didn’t disappoint.
I liked this a lot more than I thought I would. I'm generally not a fan of R&B, but as I listened to this, I realized it must be because I'm burnt out on late 90s/early 2000s R&B. The complete lack of male rappers interjecting with an unnecessary rap verse was refreshing. Coming in at 54 minutes, it did start to drag a bit for me in the last 15 minutes or so. Overall, this album has good vibes and I liked the production.
I knew nothing about Sigur Rós going into this. I knew the name but not that it was a band. It was nice to go into an album with zero pre-conceived notions. However, I only ask for two things in music: songs to be <5min, and a discernible beat. This album is too avant garde for either. I’m not saying it’s bad, but it’s certainly not for me.
I can appreciate this album but I’m pretty picky about hip hop.
I’d never heard of this band but they do very much sound like contemporaries of The Clash and Ramones. Probably wouldn’t listen again but I enjoyed it all the same.
I really liked the concept of this. Electronic music with anything is my jam. However, I didn’t like the female vocalist’s voice at all and this album sounded very dated. I didn’t even need to look at the album info to know it was from the late 90s. Interesting fusion of music, but I was glad when it was over.
I didn’t mind this. I didn’t feel like it dragged at all but I preferred the instrumental songs. I doubt I would listen to this again but it was alright.
I liked this! I've always loved "Bang a Gong (Get it On)," so it was nice having a whole album of similar songs.
I’m happy to see some female rappers make the list, but as I’m not a fan of rap, that’s where my admiration ended.
This is definitely up my alley, musically. I listened to this about 1.5 times through and very much enjoyed it.
As a big fan of Simon & Garfunkel, and of the song “You Can Call Me Al,” it’s a shame I had never listened to this album before.
Somehow I'd never listened to Patti Smith before. I don't know if I'd listen to this again but I did enjoy it. "Gloria" was the standout track for me.
Electronic is my favourite genre of music (well, EDM, precisely), but I wasn’t really feeling this album. I didn’t hate it but it felt detached and emotionless.
Hmmm. I did appreciate that this album sounded unique, I’ve never heard anything like it. I generally don’t mind this type of thing, but the growling voice was a turnoff. I was stuck in stop-and-go traffic during “Herz-Felde,” and I don’t recommend repeating the experience.
Not really my taste, but still enjoyable. “Son of a Preacher Man” was the only song I recognized. I was surprised to learn it’s not a Motown song.
Unfortunately I read some negative reviews of this album before I listened to it, and I was unable to listen to this impartially. Why do I keep doing that to myself? But like…this was Oasis’ main rival? They’re so dissimilar and Blur isn’t nearly as good. I definitely prefer Damon Albarn as Gorillaz.
The singing on this album brought this from a 4 to a 3 for me. Without the singing, this album has held up surprisingly well. While I can tell it’s mid-90s electronica (a pretty defined sound), I thought it only barely sounded dated. I wouldn’t listen to this again but not bad. Not bad at all.
I've always had a soft spot for Limp Bizkit. In the 90s, my older brother sent me on a mall mission to find their debut album. Every CD store employee looked at me like I was speaking gibberish (I guess I kind of was...limp biscuit, three dollar bill???). A year or two later when they were massively famous, I thought Fred Durst was the coolest dude ever. I even wanted to buy the same red Yankees cap he always wore. It's fortunate I never did...I was a 14 year old, white, middle class girl from southern Ontario and I'm pretty sure I would have looked ridiculous. But damn it, in my heart of hearts, I really thought I was a badass. I never, ever listen to Limp Bizkit anymore but I'd be lying if I said I didn't enjoy this trip down memory lane.
I feel like I have been neck deep in mediocre albums lately, with only a few exceptions. This was another such album. Granted, I didn’t mind this too much, but it was completely forgettable to me. Do I need to sacrifice an electric guitar or a server to the generator to turn this ship around?
This sounds like a forgettable example from an era of much better grunge/indie rock. Not my thing, too generic sounding.
I enjoyed this more than I thought I would. There were a couple songs that really stood out, although I can't remember which ones. Surprisingly delightful. Probably really a 3.5/5.
I expected to hate this, given that I hate “Hotel California.” I didn’t hate it but I never want to listen to it again.
Well, after three Steely Dan albums so far, I think I can say with some level of confidence that it’s just not my taste. I did like “Peg,” though!
Perfectly good background music for when you want to HEAR classic rock but you don't really want to LISTEN to classic rock. But also, obligatory fuck Eric Clapton.
I remember when the singles from this were pretty popular. I never really cared for Incubus at the time; however, today I found myself glad when those familiar songs came on. Given that I like the singles, perhaps if I exposed myself to this album a few times, it would grow on me. I'm not really interested in doing that, so this album lands as a solid 3.5 for me.
Yes, yes, yes, hell yes. Finally some EDM. I already knew several songs from this album as my brother had this CD growing up, and I know I covertly borrowed it at least once. Forgot all about The Rockefeller Skank so that was a fun surprise.
This wasn’t something I’d listen to again as it’s a bit grandiose for my taste, but damn, girl!
I liked this a lot! I love dance music and am not picky about it, but I do particularly love early 90s dance like this. How great is "What is Love"?! If you told me it was recorded yesterday, I'd believe it. I don't love Lady Miss Kier's voice, so this album drops from a 5 to a 4.5 for me.
This is not a genre I typically listen to but this was pretty good!
You know, I didn’t think I was going to like this, but I did. I don’t think I’d listen to it again, but I enjoyed it. It lasted the exact amount of time it took me to do dishes and wipe the counters. I love when that happens. I thought the album was pretty consistently good, but they lost me on that “I Love the Dead” song.
Did I really just hear this dude repeatedly slapping a woman? I’m not going to pretend I don’t hate rap.
Hmm what to say about this one? It suffered from a common problem I’ve had with the albums on this list: it would be better either instrumental or with a different vocalist. The music was good, the singing was a turnoff. I like electronic music and I like some avant-garde music…but in not this combination of it. Reminded me a lot of Sigur Ros which I wasn’t a fan of.
Every time I listen to The Who, I’m like man, I need to listen to more of these guys. I started out feeling that way with this, but it ran excessively long and I’m not into long, live jam sessions (or live albums in general). Good stuff regardless but I wouldn’t listen to this album specifically again.
I’m not into metal whatsoever so this was a bit of a challenging listen for me. I didn’t hate it but it did nothing for me. I can understand why it’s on the list, though.
This was okay. It kind of sounded like a blend of other stuff to me; nothing really stood out as unique about it. Whoever decided on the album title has clearly never gotten food poisoning from dairy.
I liked this! I liked what another reviewer said about how it was respectful of the culture while still being accessible. I have mad respect for anyone who performs music in multiple languages. “Bongo Bong” was the highlight for me.
This veered a little too much into DnB for me to enjoy it, and I cannot with the super long songs. I didn’t mind “Banstyle / Sappys Curry” but I’m not sure I’d even add it to my highlights playlist.
Wow, so much 90s electronica lately. I like The Chemical Brothers a lot so today was easy listening for me.
God, I hated this. The one brief respite from my unrelenting hatred was “Scare Crow.” I’d give this 1.5 but I’m rounding down.
I liked this better than that live album of his I got awhile ago. The pace of this was much snappier and it was more listenable. I’m still kind of ambivalent about Bob Dylan, though.
At the time of writing this, I haven’t finished listening, but what I’ve heard so far makes this an easy 5.
I'm not really a fan of this genre but I'm giving this a three because the album was ahead of its time. I didn't actually care for most of the songs but "The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)" was great.
Easy five stars for the King of Rock and Roll. Late 50s/early 60s rock and roll is one of my favourite genres so this album was a delight for me. "Make Me Know It" was love at first listen for me.
This was okay. I didn’t care for it the first listen through, but went back and gave each song another preview, and liked it a little more.
I do like folk music and so I didn't hate this, but the songs mostly sounded the same to me, which got boring. Also, can we please not with 12 minute songs?
Apple Music clocked this simply as samba, but it’s actually bossa nova, which I like far less. Not bad overall but most of the songs sounded too similar to each other. The song with (what I assume was) her son was cute.
I consider myself a fan of Johnny Cash, but I didn't really care for this album. Perhaps an unpopular opinion, but I don't love his voice in his later years. I also don't care for covers but I didn't mind Personal Jesus. Meh?
Today was my second time listening to this. I listened to it previously when I was trying to familiarize myself with famous classic rock albums. I don’t even know what to say about an album like this. It absolutely should be on this list. I don’t love all the songs but I think it’s a strong album.
I just had a Johnny Cash album two days ago, so it was a surprise to see another one. The algorithm strikes again. Anyway, this album is classic. I generally don’t like live albums but this might be one of very few exceptions. With the inmates’ laughter and cheers, announcements from the PA, Johnny’s accidentally laugher all come together to create an atmosphere that you can’t help but imagine yourself there.
This isn't a genre I normally like, but this was pretty good! I even thought "Papa Was a Rollin' Stone" was the best song and I typically hate songs >5min.
Did I love this? Or am I just so used to listening to stuff I don't care for that anything I actually like, I feel very enthusiastic about? Either way, this was a fun listen. I've been ambivalent towards the Pet Shop Boys in the past but I dig them doing 90s pop. If anyone reading this likes this album and wants to hear something similar, this reminded me a lot of Sparks' album Gratuitous Sax & Senseless Violins. Go for the deluxe 3hr edition as it has all the best songs within the bonus tracks section.
Respectfully, this sounded like one long song. I didn’t hate it but I couldn’t get into it.
I’ve never been a big fan of Lou Reed’s voice but otherwise, I liked this. I probably need to devote some time listening to him and The Velvet Underground since both are so influential and I know basically nothing about them.
I'm kind of ambivalent to ska. I like it in small doses but a whole album gets grating. The Wikipedia article for this album is worth reading as I had no idea ska originated in 1950s Jamaica, nor that some of these songs were covers from older ska bands. I wouldn't listen to this again but it was okay.
I feel somewhat ashamed that I didn't really care for this. It's not that I think it's bad, it's just not something I could get into. This project has made me realize that I don't care for minimalistic music that focuses heavily on vocals. I need a backing band. With a heavy dose of guilt, I can only give this a 2 since I was glad when it was over.
I have listened to this album before. It’s probably not something I’d listen to regularly, but every now and then it’s great.
Again, not a fan. However, I think if I was exposed to NC&TBS more, I might learn to like them. For now, meh.
Sixties classic. This album is strong, concise, and consistent. Teenaged, classic-rock-loving me would have gone apeshit for this album. Definitely deserves to be on the list.
Great album. I’ve owned it for a long time although I rarely listen to it. “Haiti” would find itself on a list of my favourite songs ever.
This was okay but this project hasn't changed my pickiness with hip hop. I don't think this was bad, it's just not my thing. I did really enjoy, "What?"
It was a fuckin’ party in my car this morning at 6am with this playing, let me tell you. I have been digging this style of music lately and it’s like the algorithm read my mind.
Neil, from a fellow Canadian…sorry eh, but yeah, no. I almost didn’t make it through this whole album.
I didn’t mind this. Good tunes and good voice. I wouldn’t listen again but it was okay!
Hit after hit after hit. Legendary.
The year is 2007. It's summer. I also just turned 21, and had just started my first “grown up” job. I had said “nah” to society’s expectation that I go to college, and went to the arctic instead. You could either find me at work, the Legion, or outside on the tundra in front of a bonfire. It was a glorious summer spent with friends outside, making memories, and listening to music. All the music I listened to that summer still gets me hyped for a fun summer evening spent under the midnight sun with friends, nothing but life and years in front of us. Except I wasn’t listening to this album, because I was dumb. What a mistake.
This was just okay. Theoretically I should have liked it more but it sounded too repetitive to me. As I was listening, I could understand how it could be influential to modern musicians. I also think I might like it more if I listened to it a few times. I had never listened to this band before so it was nice to give them a chance.
I really didn’t like this. The singing was terrible. I can’t believe this drivel is on this list.
I didn't hate it but rap does nothing for me.
I didn’t mind this! I probably wouldn’t listen to it again but for a genre I dislike, it was pretty good.
I’m pretty picky about rap and hip hop but Run-DMC is one of a handful I do actually like.
I’ve been greatly anticipating the day I got another Bowie album. You see, I’m not a fan of David Bowie. I never “got” Bowie. When Moonage Daydream came out a few months ago, I enthusiastically sat through it, hoping to learn enough about David Bowie that I could start to appreciate his music. I came away from the movie with a lot of respect for him as an artist, and looked forward to the generator giving me another Bowie album, so I could listen with fresh ears. I have listened to this album before and I hadn’t really cared for it. Sadly, I still don’t really care for it. I fully realize there is probably something wrong with me. I wish I did like him, but I just don’t.
Boring, forgettable 90s rock.
I had to cobble this together from compilations as the album is not available on Apple Music, but I loved it regardless. I never get tired of 50s rock and roll.
So much rap and hip hop lately. This was better and more creative than I expected it to be. I didn’t hate it but I can’t say I’d listen to it again.
I had never purposely listened to Stevie Wonder before. This was really good!
Pretty decent but it all kind of blurs together. There’s a very consistent sound throughout the album (including the covers) so if you don’t like “Relax,” you probably won’t like the album. Dance music is my favourite genre so I enjoyed it for that, but I probably wouldn’t come back to any song other than “Relax” (which of course I already knew).
Boring drivel. I don’t think I needed to hear this before I died.
This is probably my favourite album of all time. I still remember listening to it for the first time when I was 14 on a Walkman in my room. All I had were bootleg tape cassettes my parents probably recorded from someone’s CD. I don’t know what 14 year olds are like now, but liking the Beatles did my already low popularity no favours in the year 2000. I didn’t care, I knew I had found my jam. For the next few years (basically all of high school), I used all my birthday and Christmas money on acquiring every Beatles album. The White Album was one of the first (if not the first) album I purchased, with my first paycheque from corn detasseling. I bought this CD and a pair of baby blue Modrobes (what up Canadians?!). Anyway, despite being my favourite album, there are a couple songs I don’t really care for, those being “Julia” and “Good Night.” I think they have their place on the album, I’m just not into slow, sappy songs.
Two Beatles albums in a row, what are the odds? Another easy five stars since I own and listen to this already.
What the fuck? A David Bowie album I actually liked? Thanks to Brian Eno, no doubt. Having just suffered through Ziggy Stardust last week, I’m shocked I actually liked this. I did prefer the first seven songs much more, though. Everything after A New Career in Town was a bit too Bowie-esque for my likings, but wow. What an interesting start to my day. Huh, what do you know. Me, liking Bowie. A Christmas miracle?
Legendary album. No complaints from me.
Surprised to see this album came out in 1983; it sounds like a 90s album to me. I'd never listened to Violent Femmes before, except for Blister in the Sun. This isn't a style I typically listen to but I found it likeable for its unusually upbeat rawness. If there were half stars, I’d give this 3.5.
I’ve never listened to later Beach Boys. I can’t say I’ll be returning to it willingly.
This was really nice to listen to yesterday on Christmas. I was familiar with the majority of the songs.
Classic album. I don’t have a lot to say about this but I’ve always liked The Doors so this was an enjoyable listen. Probably more like 4.5 stars.
Love me some REM.
Hmm this was an interesting album. I had no idea what to expect based on how Wikipedia described the genres. I feel like I’d like it more if I listened to it a few more times. It wasn’t bad but I also wasn’t enamoured by it. I liked Up With People the most.
You know, I didn’t think I was going to enjoy this at all. I don’t care for reggae but I found this accessible and palatable.
Well, I can say with much confidence that this is not a genre I enjoy. Part of my distaste for this type of music is that it felt like it like I couldn’t escape having to hear it constantly in the early 2000s. I didn’t hate this but I was glad when it was over.
I expected to dislike this, since I have Dog Man Star a 2. However, I was pleasantly surprised. They sound like a less interesting version of The Smiths to me, but I didn’t mind it!
I’m a bit bummed this wasn’t the album with “It’s My Life” on it, but this was pretty good!
Not bad, pretty pleasant. I've been wanting to try out CS&N so it was good to do that today. No single song stood out to me and ultimately, this whole thing kind of blurred into one long song. I probably wouldn't listen to it again but it was fine nonetheless.
Not bad! I like old folk country like this. My tolerance level for it wanes after about 30 minutes so this felt like it ran a little long. Overall, I liked it.
Whoa, I was not expecting this album. Apple lists it as “R&B/Soul” which is a definite misnomer. I went into it expecting some kind of cookie cutter music I would quickly forget about. I’d heard of Janelle Monáe but didn’t know her music. Listening to this album for me was the experience that I think we all hope for from this challenge. It wasn’t on my radar before but I couldn’t believe how good it was. This album borrows from many genres and inspirations. I couldn’t believe how good every track was, and how diverse this album was, while still maintaining a cohesive sound. Overall, I am very impressed with this and will be revisiting this album.
U2 + Oasis = The Verve
Not bad! I didn’t like this as much as I thought I would, but I didn’t mind it.
I didn’t like this one as much as Shadowland. This sort of 90s countrylite isn’t really my scene, but I can understand why others would like it. She has a great voice.
Basically, upbeat Brazilian muzak. I want to say that I found this interesting, but truthfully, it was kind of boring. I'm glad I listened to it but I have no plans to listen to it again.
I had never listened to Iggy Pop on his own before (aside from “The Passenger”). I liked this! Realistically I’m not sure how often I’d return to it, but it’s something to keep in the mind for the future.
This was okay. I’d never heard of Mott before. Stereotypical 70s glam rock. Didn’t hate but I also can’t really say I enjoyed it? Maybe really a 2.5? I’ll round up to be generous since there were a couple songs that were okay.
Holy cow, third album this week produced by Bowie. I can tell, because this past week has been a lot of "meh” for me.
This was alright. I kinda dig the 80s bluesy pop synth vibes. Probably not something I’d return to.
Hot take: it’s like they knew “Sweet Dreams” would be a hit so they didn’t put as much effort into the rest of the songs. There was nothing really memorable about any of the other tracks. They all stand in the tall shadow of “Sweet Dreams.” My older coworker, an 80s music aficionado, disagrees with me about the album, so maybe you had to be there to appreciate it.
I’d been looking forward to this album since I really liked Mermaid Avenue. I have a lot of respect for Billy Bragg. I’m not sure I’ll return to this album but I enjoyed it all the same.
This does feel like the spiritual successor to Rumours. It feels more grown up, less angry. This one needs a few listens through in order to fully appreciate it.
This was the most tolerable I’ve heard Bob Dylan’s voice. I probably should have listened to the words more but the music was okay, if not repetitive.
I really liked this!! I love 80s synth pop and this is about as 80s synth pop as you can get. Bummer the BBC banned their single, thus inhibiting the success of this album. This is probably a 4.5 for me.
Here's me again, disagreeing with how Apple Music labelled the genre on this. It remains to be seen why that bugs me so much. I'm surprised this came out in 1996 as it sounds like early 2000s indie singer-songwriter. I'm shocked, SHOCKED that nothing from this album is on the Garden State soundtrack. If you liked this album, you'll love that soundtrack. Anyway, I really liked this. Singer-songwriter is hit or miss for me, and this album was a bit of both. I preferred the peppier songs; not so much the slower ones. I'll be saving a few songs to my 1001 Highlights playlist.
This wasn’t available on Apple Music in the USA, but I found it on YouTube (minus one song which wasn’t available). This was good, I liked this. Being forced to listen to jazz has made me appreciate it more. Overall, this was a really pleasant, serene album.
Wow. I'd never listened to this album before, outside the of three hits. I have nothing bad to say about this album at all. It's perfect.
This was kind of dreary, but then sometimes very likeable. I waffled between 3 and a 4 for this.
I’m not into hip hop and rap but I have to say, this was pretty likeable. I think I understand why it’s on the list. I probably wouldn’t listen to it again, but I didn’t mind it!
This sounds like the kind of thing my friends would have gone apeshit for in our 20s, while I was scratching my head and wondering what was special about it.
This is the second reggae album I've gotten so far; both within this past month. I always thought I didn't care for reggae but I realize now that's not true. It's super pleasant listening and peaceful, in a way. It feels neither rushed nor slow, it just does its thing on its own time. I'll be saving a few of these songs for my 1001 Highlights playlist.
I won't lie, I rolled my eyes when I saw I got another Neil Young album. However, I was pleasantly surprised that it didn't make me want to pack my ear canals with cement. It was actually kind of nice and I didn't mind it.
Listen, I was a 12 year old girl when this album came out. Let's not pretend I wasn't into this. I never owned this CD but I am familiar with a third of the tracks. I think there are too many schmaltzy filler songs, but otherwise, there are some great songs here. Gonna forward this review to myheart@britneyspears.com because she asked me to.
I first listened to this album a few years ago, and felt neutral about it. In the years since that first listen, I’ve become a naturalized US citizen. Maybe there’s something in the water but I loved it this time. I can’t find it in me to give this anything less than 5. It’s too good. “I’m On Fire” has been one of my favourite songs for years and this album deserves a 5 based on that alone. Who knew becoming a US citizen was all it took to have an appreciation for The Boss?
This is definitely up my alley. It reminds me of a watered-down version of Django Django combined with The Beach Boys. Seeing as those are two of my favourite bands, I was very excited during the first song. But then the second song sounded like the first song. And the third song sounded like the second song. And the fourth song sounded like the third song. And so on and so forth. I really like it...but it's too repetitive. I'm going to listen to this a few more times to see if the tracks become more discrete over time because I can see myself really loving this.
This was a nice album. I don't have anything bad to say about it, it's just not really my thing. Great voice, though!
Really good stuff here, just longgggggg. Love the Beatles, love the individual members, but probably wouldn’t return to this album.
Scott Walker is bad enough, but I draw the line at wannabe Scott Walker.
I hadn’t listened to this album in ages. I like it a lot. It’s not a favourite of mine but there are several standout tracks here. Truly an excellent example of 90s angst rock.
Not bad! Not really my taste in music but it was decent. I liked "Mr. Cab Driver" the most. I wasn't aware of Lenny Kravitz until the late 90s so I always forget he was around earlier. I appreciate the blend of genres here and respect him doing something so different from what other musicians were doing at this time. This album is kind of timeless in that way; there's nothing inherently 80s about it (to my ears, anyway). Probably more of a 3.5
This is the most tolerable Bob Dylan has been for me. I even kind of enjoyed a few songs. Gasp.
What the hell? What even was this, and why is it so good?!?! There haven't been many albums on this list where I'm sad when they end, but the silence after "Oh Effendi" made me go, "Awww." Every single song was interesting and enjoyable. I'll be returning to this for sure.
Maybe it was an influential album, but I really didn’t care for it.
I'm more familiar with QOTSA's later singles, but I've never really been a fan of theirs regardless. I think they have an interesting and unique sound, it's just not my thing.
These Dad Rock vibes were so strong that when I got out of my car after listening, I was somehow wearing white New Balance sneakers, tube socks, and a T-shirt tucked into khaki shorts.
It's so nice to get a break from Brit rock. I enjoyed listening to this. Miriam has a great voice and this was a pleasant selection of songs. The incontrollable laughter from her duet partner on "One More Dance" made me laugh, too.
I like RHCP, but really only know the singles. I liked the songs I already knew, but none of the other songs enticed me to listen to this album again.
This isn’t really my taste in music but there’s a lot to appreciate here. Every song was heartfully sung. “Four Women” is a masterpiece.
This was pretty good! I think I'd want to listen to this a few more times to fully get into it, but I was a fan.
I listened to this yesterday and now I'm struggling to remember what it sounded like, so I guess I was pretty neutral about it? I was surprised to find out this was made in the mid-60s. I thought it was about 10 years newer. Either way, this was alright!
There are some legendary tracks here, and some I didn't know. I've always liked The Doors so this was an easy listen today.
I always know when the genre on Apple Music isn't in English, that I'm in for a treat. Indeed I was today with this fun and lively album. I appreciated the diversity between the tracks as well as the energy and creativity of each song. Very enjoyable!
Well, I was going to complain that this album was way too long, but I accidentally listened to most of a deluxe version. I kinda don’t regret it, though. My thought process going into this, having seen the (incorrect) long running time, was "Dimery, this better damn well be good!" But it didn't disappoint! I preferred the first half of the album with more of the rock vibes, but the more traditional Irish and Scottish stuff was pretty good, too. The first few tracks reminded me of early U2. I LOVED “We Will Not Be Lovers” and listened to it numerous times already.
I love the Beastie Boys. I’d never listened to this album before but I liked it.
This was really good! I recognized a couple songs which was nice, considering I didn't think I knew The Isley Brothers. I liked this combo of soul, funk, and disco. Really, I like anything up-tempo, but the super duper 70s-ness of this was a pleasant bonus.
Not bad! I liked Black Sabbath more when I was a teenager, so I still have a bit of fondness of ol’ Ozzy. I didn’t mind it but I have no plans to return to it.
Not bad, just a little too sedate for my likings. I think I’m failing to hear what’s special about this album because it sounded like generic indie singer-songwriter to me.
Great album. Not much to complain about here. I have listened to this album once before and remember enjoying it. This album definitely deserves to be on the list.
I can’t separate the art from the artist here. I like some of his older stuff (Graduation and 808s era) but I can’t with this narcissistic, antisemitic clown. He’s mentally ill and I hope some day will see the errors of his ways. Until then, I can’t take his music seriously.
I had never listened to Joy Division before and I really liked this. I learned after listening that this album is basically Ian Curtis' suicide note. I feel a bit weird gushing about this album considering that fact. I listened to this album straight through twice and feel like it's a perfect album. Not sure how often I'd realistically listen to this in the future, but it deserves a perfect score.
This is not really my type of music but I have to say, this was really good! I enjoyed it a lot.
Hell yeah! One of my favourite albums! The Cars is (are?) one of my favourite bands. There's not a single bad song on this album.
It's AC/DC, what's not to love? Their sound is a little formulaic in that every song is pretty similar, but I like it.
An 11 minute song to start the album? Straight to jail. This journey has made me realize that I like jazz. Overall I liked this but I found it kind of boring. It felt like it was just generic jazz; there wasn’t anything that stood out to me.
This reminded me too much of Neil Young, whom I'm not a fan of. I did like "Silver Raven” though.
I like jazz but this didn't really do anything for me. My attention wavered a lot.
I’m neither a hard rock nor live album fan, but this was not bad considering!
I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I think this was too short. It was kind of difficult to get into any song because they were almost all over as soon as they started. That said, this felt like bog standard 60s psychedelic rock. I liked Mr. Tambourine Man but this just felt lacking in comparison.
I’ve listened to a lot of Led Zeppelin in hopes of appreciating them, but it just never connects for me. I listened to this album in 2020 and my feeling then was the same as today. I don’t really care for this but I don’t mind the second half. “Kashmir” is probably the only Led Zeppelin song I can honestly say I like.
My second Radiohead album on this journey. I like Radiohead but have really only listened to the hits and Kid A. I liked In Rainbows when I got it 6 months ago but now totally forget what it sounded like. Anyway, I liked this. Most of it was a little too slow and dreary for me to listen to regularly, but it's good stuff regardless. "Just" was the highlight for me.
I thought I liked most 1980s pop but this album proved that even I have limits sometimes.
Automatic five stars since I already own this and listen to it. It’s not one of my favourite Beatles albums but in the grand scheme of things, it’s still an amazing album. Norwegian Wood, Michelle, If I Needed Someone…all terrific songs. Unpopular opinion: I’ve always hated “In My Life.” I hate very few Beatles songs but that one is my least favourite.
Well, I love electronic music so I didn't mind this, but this isn't an album I'd willingly seek out again. Man, so much good electronic music in the world and this damn book picked the most flat, mundane stuff.
I like the Pixies and so obviously there are some similarities here. Barring the fact this is too long of an album, I still thought it was decent.
Great album. Not my first time listening to it. This isn’t something I’d listen to on a regular basis but you can’t deny how fun it is.
Oh wow, just yesterday my husband and I decided to go see The Cure this summer, as they’re coming to our city for the first time in nearly 20 years. I said I hadn’t really listened to them before. Thanks, algorithm! I enjoyed it!
I was excited about this one after reading Apple Music's little write-up for it. I liked it, but didn't love it. At times I really, really liked it, and at other times, I felt like it was ostentatious hipster trash.
I didn't mind this but it was also kind of forgettable. I would call this pop reggae-lite. It seemed like the type of thing that would be playing in a hotel lobby somewhere warm.
I'd never listened to the B-52's outside of their famous songs. I find them a little repetitive but I do really like their sound, so it's okay. Besides "Rock Lobster," "6060-842" was the highlight for me.
I didn’t mind this at first but it felt really long. Also not really a fan of all the sexually explicit stuff. I liked “Earth People” but that’s about it.
What the hell is this? And why did I need to hear this before I died? I pretty much spent all day laughing about the most upvoted review on this site saying it sounds like your drunk neighbours having open mic night. Nailed it. Most of this was god awful but I liked "2Kindsa Love." It's saving this from being 1 star.
Serviceable 90s rock, but ultimately forgettable and kind of annoying. Also, this album cover is gross.
Shamefully, I’ve owned this on CD for at least a decade and have never listened to it. However, my parents were/are Beach Boys fans and I grew up listening to them. One of my earliest memories in life is putting a Beach Boys’ greatest hits CD in the stereo and turning on “Sloop John B.” Anyway, I’m glad I finally listened to it from start to finish. I actually knew most of the songs already. I don’t have any commentary good enough for this album.
I'd been eagerly anticipating this album as I've seen it mentioned a lot on the subreddit for this site. I had no idea what to expect and only kind of vaguely remembered it was electronica. I didn't mind this. I'm not really into ambient/chill electronic music, but it's okay. I liked "Telephasic Workshop" the most. If I was ever in the mood for mostly instrumental chill music, I would consider playing this again. Probably more of a 3.5.
I became a fan of Kraftwerk about a year ago, but hadn't yet gotten to this album. Eventually I learned it was on this list so I just waited to get it. An opening 20 minute song, woof. Tracks longer than 5-6min annoy me to no end but I love Kraftwerk so...conundrum? This album was alright! I don't think I'd listen to it again as I prefer their later more "radio-friendly" stuff.
Not bad, considering I don’t really like Bowie. The funk vibes helped.
Me: Mom, can we buy The Beatles? Mom: No, we have The Beatles at home! The Beatles at home:
A true classic. I've listened to it before. It really is an outstanding album and deserves a place in this list.
I'll take some variety any day of the week. If it's not generic rock, all the better. I liked this, I found it really pleasant. I can't see myself listening to it again but I enjoyed it today.
I reaaaaally did not like this. It all had a resemblance to that YouTube video “history of the entire world, I guess” by Bill Wurtz. The sun is a deadly laser! And I wish this album was too, so I wouldn’t have had to hear the entire thing.
This was alright! It was kind of repetitive and I didn’t really find any song that stood out more than the others. Didn’t hate but wouldn’t listen to it again.
Kinda reminded me of The Stooges. I don’t know how influential this album was/is, but to me it sounded like the musical ancestor to 2000s garage rock.
Who knew four babies could write such fun and lively music?
I’ve never heard of this guy but I really liked this. It was a little sedate listening to it at 6am while driving, though. I really liked “Madeleine-Mary.” I ended up listening to this a second time and enjoyed it even more. It sounds a little ahead of its time; it has more of a mid- to late-2000s indie singer songwriter sound.
Well well well, this album! I knew a little bit about it going in; namely that it sounds like a high school band warming up, turned into an album. I can understand why anyone would shut this off immediately. The chaos was anxiety-inducing for me at first; I felt uneasy as I pulled out of my driveway and started my commute. But hear me out...it actually gets better. The chaos winds down; a couple instruments start playing together, and something resembling music rises from the ashes of the first 10 minutes. I started wondering if the initial chaos was simply to make you that much more grateful to hear actual music, that it sounds amazing by default? You might not like having freezing cold water dumped on you, but you would love it if you'd just been pulled out of scalding water. I can't hate this album for that. It's an experience I'll surely remember!
Alright, I can see why this was included in the list. Arguably, it does deserve to be here. I love dance music but I didn't particularly enjoy this outside of "Back to Life." I preferred the male singer over the female. Kinda boring overall, though.
Great album!!! I can’t complain about an album that has both “Jump” and “Panama” on it. Absolute classics.
Pretty good! This is a very consistent album, albeit a little long. I was surprised how much of it I recognized as I thought I only knew "Killing Me Softly."
While listening to this, I thought to myself that I don’t listen to Bob Dylan; I endure him. Nevertheless, this was alright. It had a good pace throughout. I still didn’t really like it overall, though.
I wish I could say I liked Sonic Youth. I feel like I should, like I could get really into this band… but they just don’t do anything for me.
I’m not usually a fan of prog rock, but I liked this. I don’t think I’d listen to it again but I enjoyed it all the same. This was a quirky album that I felt had hints of glam rock at times.
I probably should have read a little bit about this one first, but oh well. It was alright. I'm picky about vocals so instrumental music is always welcomed. I didn't dislike this but it wasn't very interesting and it was hard to pay much attention to.
Trying to enjoy this is like trying to enjoy sand slipping through your fingers. It's here and gone so fast. That said, there was something fun about the unique experience of listening to this. I wouldn't listen to it again as I'm not really into punk, but it was punchy.
I was surprised that I knew more than just the title track; "Vincent" was familiar as well. I'd never deliberately listened to Don McLean before but this was pretty good. I like folk so I liked this. I probably wouldn't listen to it again but I'll be adding "Vincent" to my 1001 highlights playlist.
Pretty good! I probably wouldn’t listen again but I don’t mind some quality country every now and then.
She has a great voice but I find this adult contemporary stuff a slog to get through.
Where the heck has this been all my life?! I read something online recently that led me to believe I'd probably enjoy this album, and I was right. This reminds me a lot of Django Django but with a frontwoman instead instead. I can't wait to explore the rest of her discography.
I wasn't a fan of this. I found it repetitive and tiring to listen to. I wavered between a 1 and 2.
I’m probably objectively wrong here but I didn’t care for this. :( This journey has made me realize I hate anything bluesy.
I just had a Sonic Youth album 10 days ago and I said I wished I liked them more. This album helped. This was SO good! I was shocked that it came out in 1988 because it sounds newer. I realized that a lot of the musicians I liked in the 90s and 2000s must have taken inspiration from this album, because it reminded me so much of other, newer bands. This album absolutely should be on this list.
I liked this! It did run a little long, though.
I realized that I expected this to be more pop because of his big, beaming smile on the cover. I'm not very familiar with Tim Buckley and didn't realize he was making music with the best of them during the mid-60s. Sometimes I wonder if I would like 60s rock as much had I not been exposed to it my whole life. That said, when I hear 60s rock from an artist I'm less familiar with, I tend not to really care for it. That was the case with this album. It was good and his voice is fantastic, but otherwise it did nothing for me.
I had a pretty good feeling I was going to like this based on the fact I knew it was country, and I knew people hated this album. I was correct. This album's message is basically "My man is a POS but so am I." Respect.
I mean, it’s The Rolling Stones. What’s not to like?
I really enjoyed this. If you haven’t read the Wikipedia article for this album, do yourself a favour and read it. Probably more of a 4.5.
I liked this! It reminded me of Gwen Stefani mixed with Major Lazer. I really liked “Boyz” but I would listen to this whole album again.
Pretty good. I wouldn’t listen to it again but I’m glad I did listen to it.
Not gonna lie…I struggled to get through this. I’d never listened to Tori Amos before but with any luck, I won’t have to again.
I love The Chemical Brothers so today was easy listening (especially compared to yesterday's Tori Amos). “It Doesn’t Matter” was the standout track for me. Gonna keep this one on my phone.
I dig the Arctic Monkeys. I liked this and I think I would like this even more if I gave it a few more listens.
Who knew prog soul was a thing? While I doubt I'd listen to this again, I liked it. I preferred the instrumental songs.
The production on this is great; it feels like you're being surrounded by voices all in harmony. I liked this but it's not something I'd listen to again. I LOVE their contribution to Graceland but on its own, it's a bit repetitive for me. Would rate 3.5 stars.
CHVRCHES is one of those bands that my husband always asks me why I don't listen to, since they sound like other stuff I'm into. This was my first time giving them a real chance. It reminded a lot of Lights and maybe even a little bit of Taylor Swift, on certain tracks. I liked it overall on my first listen and plan to listen again. It wasn't love at first listen but I think it would grow on me more.
Somehow in nearly 37 years, I had avoided hearing anything by Leonard Cohen. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I didn’t think I’d like it. I was pleasantly surprised. He reminds me of a much more pleasant Bob Dylan.
Great album. I’ve become a fan of U2 in the last year or so. I’m happy this project is giving me a reason to go through their discography.
Before I checked the year this was released, I was thinking it sounds like mid-career Beatles (Help!, Rubber Soul, Revolver era). It turns out I was correct, since this came out in 1965. I liked it, but I prefer their later stuff. I was mostly distracted the whole time thinking about how much they sounded like a Beatles knock off.
I've been a fan of Depeche Mode for awhile, but I'm only really familiar with their hits. That said, this was great and will be staying on my phone. The highlight for me was "Little 15."
80s pop is one of my favourite genres. I only knew "Take on Me" but I liked the rest of the album as well. I'd listen to it again.
Interesting fuse of funk, jazz, and rock. I don't think I'd listen to it again but I didn't mind it.
This was my second time listening to this entire album. I'm obviously aware of the famous tracks and have heard them a million times. That said, I don't love this album. I love the hits but I don't love the other songs.
I've had this album on my phone for awhile and have listened to it many times. I fucking LOVE this album. There's not a single song I'd remove; they're all great. This is probably the only band that can do the blues in a way that I actually like.
You know those jokes like "beware people with tattoos; they're proof they can sit still while being stabbed for hours"? This is the musical equivalent of that. I'd be extremely wary of someone who can sit through this whole thing happily, haha. I cannot do these prolonged jam sessions, it’s just not for me. I gave each song a fair play time and then skipped to the next one. All in all, I listened to an hour of this. The only song I didn’t mind was “Turn on Your Love Light” but even it started to wear on me after about 8 minutes.
For being pop rock from 1993, IMHO it sounds a bit ahead of its time. At times it sounded pretty 90s, but overall I thought it had a fresh sound. More of a 3.5.
I didn’t like this album as much as Disintegration. I didn’t mind it but it didn’t really do much for me.
This was alright. I knew the two hits obviously. I’m pretty picky about solo female artists and so this didn’t really win me over. I preferred the back half of the album.
I'd been meaning to listen to Fleet Foxes because I got the impression I'd probably like them. I ended up loving this album. I understand why it's on the list; it's a strong album and well produced. Will definitely be listening to this more.
Here we go again with more classic rock featuring Eric Clapton, literal human trash. I have a bone to pick with a song from this album. It sounds so absurd that it can’t possibly be true, but it is. In 2016, I lived in a not-bad-but-not-nice apartment building for a year. My next door neighbour didn’t seem to work and spent all day, every day playing his electric guitar. I’m talking starts around 9-10am and shuts ‘er down around 9-10pm. Every single day, at least when I was home to hear him. It wasn’t so loud that it was disruptive, but I could hear it clearly in my apartment. The problem? He literally only played “Sunshine of Your Love.” That’s it, just that song, over and over again for 12 hours a day, every single day. No other song. Just that stupid guitar refrain ad nauseam. He seemed to only take breaks to smoke a cigarette on his balcony, which would blow into my apartment. Obviously, the song is beyond ruined for me at this point, and that’s saying nothing of my sanity. The album was okay but I feel a little burnt out on classic rock lately.
The man is talented, I can’t deny him that. I just really don’t care for Elton John, save for a handful of songs. This was a long 75 minutes.
I don't know if this just hasn't aged well or what, but I'm not sure why I must hear this before I die. Why would they pick this over Jewel's Pieces of You album?
I didn't have high hopes for this, given that Like Water for Chocolate is the only album I've shut off partway through in 350+ albums. This was...fine. I'm not a big fan of rap and hip hop. It seemed like a decent album if you're into this type of music.
My husband was very excited this morning when I told him that this was my album of the day. Unfortunately, I'm not into metal whatsoever. I can't deny Metallica's massive talent, that much is obvious. I just don't enjoy listening to metal. It all sounds the same to me. I did recognize "One" because I don't live under a rock, and it was the highlight of the album for me.
It was interesting getting this right after Metallica. I have to say that I preferred this over Metallica as it's a bit lighter. Kind of fun to hear to metal before it evolved.
Theoretically, this is up my alley. I should have liked this, but I didn’t. It was too country for my singer-songwriter tastes and too singer-songwriter for my country tastes.
Classic. I've been listening to these songs for basically my entire life, so this shit is part of my DNA at this point.
I ran hot and cold on this album. The hots were easy 5s, the colds were probably a 3. Four seems fair.
Things I dislike: hard rock, blues rock, southern rock, bad vocals. How I would describe this album: see above list.
I was born missing the gene responsible for appreciating David Bowie. That said, this challenge has made me listen to four of his albums so far (only four more to go, sigh). I didn't mind this. I like a handful of his songs and one of them is on this album ("Queen Bitch"). I prefer him here with the acoustic sounds, although methinks I could hear The Beatles' influence in here, which is probably why I didn't mind this.
This was alright! I liked the indie sound and it reminded me a bit of The Black Keys. I would listen to this again. Would rate 3.5.
I don't know if I'm just in a phase or what, but I'm having a hard time with all this classic rock. I used to consider myself a classic rock fan, but it's been wearing on me lately. I know Stephen Stills is hugely talented and all that, but how much classic rock does a person really need to hear before they die? The dominance of white boomer male taste on this list is really starting to grate.
This was just okay. It was a little slow for my tastes. I'd never listened to Curtis Mayfield before (other than on "Astounded" by Bran Van 3000) so it was good to do that today.