124
Albums Rated
3.3
Average Rating
11%
Complete
965 albums remaining
Rating Distribution
Rating Timeline
Taste Profile
1980s
Favorite Decade
Punk
Favorite Genre
UK
Top Origin
Wordsmith
Rater Style ?
8
5-Star Albums
1
1-Star Albums
Breakdown
By Genre
By Decade
By Origin
Albums
You Love More Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Public Image: First Issue
Public Image Ltd.
|
5 | 2.43 | +2.57 |
|
Rattus Norvegicus
The Stranglers
|
5 | 3.15 | +1.85 |
|
All Mod Cons
The Jam
|
5 | 3.25 | +1.75 |
|
The Köln Concert
Keith Jarrett
|
5 | 3.4 | +1.6 |
|
The Velvet Underground
The Velvet Underground
|
5 | 3.53 | +1.47 |
|
Rising Above Bedlam
Jah Wobble's Invaders Of The Heart
|
4 | 2.61 | +1.39 |
|
The Stone Roses
The Stone Roses
|
5 | 3.64 | +1.36 |
|
The Queen Is Dead
The Smiths
|
5 | 3.66 | +1.34 |
|
Dr. Octagonecologyst
Dr. Octagon
|
4 | 2.69 | +1.31 |
|
m b v
My Bloody Valentine
|
4 | 2.72 | +1.28 |
You Love Less Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Truth
Jeff Beck
|
1 | 3.16 | -2.16 |
|
Brothers
The Black Keys
|
2 | 3.58 | -1.58 |
|
Funeral
Arcade Fire
|
2 | 3.57 | -1.57 |
|
Songs For Swingin' Lovers!
Frank Sinatra
|
2 | 3.52 | -1.52 |
|
Abbey Road
Beatles
|
3 | 4.46 | -1.46 |
|
Cheap Thrills
Big Brother & The Holding Company
|
2 | 3.43 | -1.43 |
|
There's No Place Like America Today
Curtis Mayfield
|
2 | 3.37 | -1.37 |
|
Home Is Where The Music Is
Hugh Masekela
|
2 | 3.36 | -1.36 |
|
Brilliant Corners
Thelonious Monk
|
2 | 3.33 | -1.33 |
|
The Next Day
David Bowie
|
2 | 3.3 | -1.3 |
5-Star Albums (8)
View Album Wall
Popular Reviews
David Bowie
2/5
Because I'm familiar with Bowie's great albums, this is very much a dissappointment.
There's nothing special or moving about this.
I hold Bowie to higher standards than I would any other artist, so I'd expect better from him.
I'm glad blackstar was so much better than this, what an awful thing it would be if this had ended up being Bowie's last studio album.
24 likes
Public Image Ltd.
5/5
How is this one of the lowest rated albums on here?! You people have no taste. This is one of the greatest post-punk albums ever made, thanks mostly to Mr Keith Levene with the incredible guitar, and Jah Wobble with the gorgeous dub-style bass. Lydon's lyrics give the album an extra kick.
I've heard this album countless time and I love the sex pistols and a lot of other work Lydon has done so of course I'm very biased about my adoration of this album. On a first listen, I don't think I 'got' this album. So in all fairness, it will take time for someone to appreciate just how good it is.
Fav tracks: Religion II. So angry. I love it.
Annalisa and Theme are great. Theme in particular has a great opening bassline. And lydon's screaming on it must have disgusted so many listeners :)
16 likes
The Smiths
5/5
The smiths are one of my favourite bands, and I've heard this album countless times - an effortles 5 from me.
Funny how the generator 'convieniently' gave me this album a day after it was announced the Queen died.
I always used to get a kick out of the"TQID" song, but now she's actually dead it isn't particularly enjoyable anymore. Not because I'm grieving over the Queen(news of her death produced only indifference from me). But because the song has lost its edginess now that she's actually gone.
This album will always be great, the perfect album to introduce someone to the Smiths. People who hate on Morrissey are total bores.
1 likes
Jah Wobble's Invaders Of The Heart
4/5
Really liked this. Spiritual feel to it. A suprising addition was Sinead O Connor's vocals included throughout the album. Her voice, combined with Jah Wobble's addictive basslines made the album.
Personally felt the first half was better than the second half. Nonetheless, great album. Wobble's changed up his style compared with his days in PiL.
Refreshing to hear music using a combination of different cultures.
1 likes
Frankie Goes To Hollywood
2/5
worse than i expected. i've been having a hard-on for the 80s recently - all things 80s music so i was looking forward to listening to this. but it was the definition of lower mid music - some ok songs, most are dull and skippable. i cannot understand how this is an essential album in the slightest.the only interesting song is relax.
1 likes
1-Star Albums (1)
All Ratings
Arcade Fire
2/5
it's alright
lyrics aren't moving
seems to use a wide array of instruments - bass, twinkly piano, violin (or cello?), classic rock guitar
Standard male indie vocals
Green Day
3/5
Generic pop punk.
Has some good moments, but most of the songs drag.
I do like the political message off of the song american idiot.
The type of album I'd enjoy more if I was 15/16, think I'm too old to enjoy it now (22).
Crosby, Stills & Nash
3/5
slightly better than arcade fire but nothing impressive
feels very much like an album of its time
it had a gentle feel to it, but none of the songs stood out, and it didn't even gently nudge at any of my emotional buttons.
The Stone Roses
5/5
work of art
very very consistently excellent soundtrack, only a few skippable songs (don't stop, elizabeth....)
really like this, but i'm biased bc this isn't my first listen, or even my 10th
GREAT STUFF
Q-Tip
3/5
quite different from his tribe called quest days
chill hip hop vibe, good samples and basslines
David Bowie
4/5
*NOT A FIRST LISTEN*
Not my favourite Bowie, but still very good.
One of Bowie's best album covers.
Feels very different to every other album he's ever made. Perhaps it would be more accurate to describe this as a combined work of Eno and Bowie's?
Alien sounding. Reminscient of early electronic music.
Weeping Wall particularly captures that alienating, haunting, disturbing quality.
Some songs are bathed in melancholy - be my wife,sound and vision, Always crashing in the same car
Would probably sound ten times better on drugs. I first heard this album when I was about 17 so can't help being biased in my review. Nice to come back to the album again.
The only song I really re-listen from the album these days is Speed of life.
Suzanne Vega
2/5
I really wanted to like this. Suzanne Vega has a gorgeous voice, and the guitar playing is really nice.
But most of the songs are forgettable, they're nice to hear but don't do anything for me emotionally. The songs are just 'there'.
Small blue thing was the only memorable song for me.
This was only a first listen, I might have to revisit this one to see if my mind will change. Sorry Suzanne :(
My Bloody Valentine
4/5
Mostly instrumental, with sweet, delicate vocals in the background
The vocals felt more like an additional instrument to the shoegazey/noisey sound, as oppose to 'leading' the songs.
Relaxing album, one you can lay down and listen to in a depressed mood. Also could be used for studying/concentration.
I enjoyed it a lot.
As someone already familiar with mbv (loveless), this was slightly different, but still high quality. Perhaps someone who's never heard mbv before might not enjoy it the same way?
The noisey/drilling/luscious sound has a way of being simultaneously energizing and relaxing.
Beck
3/5
Meh. Has some cool samples, and was pretty wacky on a first listen. However, I wouldn't go back to this. On a second listen, I didn't enjoy it so much.
Sounds 'cool' but lacks depth.
Nonetheless, I appreciate the variety of samples used in the songs. Stops the listening experience from being too boring.
Jah Wobble's Invaders Of The Heart
4/5
Really liked this. Spiritual feel to it. A suprising addition was Sinead O Connor's vocals included throughout the album. Her voice, combined with Jah Wobble's addictive basslines made the album.
Personally felt the first half was better than the second half. Nonetheless, great album. Wobble's changed up his style compared with his days in PiL.
Refreshing to hear music using a combination of different cultures.
Bad Brains
3/5
I liked a few songs off this like she's calling you and I Against I.
Maybe after a few more listens it would grow on me more. Gonna have to give it 3 stars bc I didn't dig it too much.
Femi Kuti
3/5
This was my first taste of proper african music.
I like the lyrics, but a lot of the instrumentation was unfamiliar to me. Nonetheless, I liked the general 'vibe' of the album. Politically driven as well.
Don't have much more to say on the album, but Femi is cute.
The Jam
5/5
Heard this plenty of times, so another easy 5 from me.
David Watts, Down in a tube station, Bomb in wardour street are highlight tracks
LOVE THE JAM AND PAUL WELLER <3
Dr. Octagon
4/5
really, really cool
Blue flowers may have just become one of my favourite hip hop tracks
this album has further reinforced that old school hip hop is best hip hop B]
Unexpectedly good, I went into this knowing nothing about the album or the artist. Perhaps in some way that made the listening experience better. Will definitely be revisiting this, it had humour, witty/dark/clever lyrics, good rapping and awesome album art.
Gang Of Four
4/5
a relisten for me. Haven't gone through the whole album for a while, but always love 'damaged goods' and 'i found that essence rare'.
this is a definitive post punk album, each song captures that post punk sound - slashy guitar, gorgeous basslines and politically driven lyrics.
The cover is really good too, perfect visual of what the album is all about.
Very good album but i usually only come back to one or two songs, and there's a few that are filler. nonetheless, a very good album to introduce newbies to the post punk sound.
The Smiths
5/5
The smiths are one of my favourite bands, and I've heard this album countless times - an effortles 5 from me.
Funny how the generator 'convieniently' gave me this album a day after it was announced the Queen died.
I always used to get a kick out of the"TQID" song, but now she's actually dead it isn't particularly enjoyable anymore. Not because I'm grieving over the Queen(news of her death produced only indifference from me). But because the song has lost its edginess now that she's actually gone.
This album will always be great, the perfect album to introduce someone to the Smiths. People who hate on Morrissey are total bores.
Electric Light Orchestra
3/5
Had some good moments but I wouldn't listen to it again. Turn to stone and Mr blue sky are bona fide classics, some of the instrumental songs are nice as well. Overall though, not my kind of thing.
3/5
Getting through this was a drag. Don't get me wrong, it had some good moments. Some of the organ parts were cool, and there were some neat guitar and bass moments in the first track.
Overall though, the songs are too long and I don't enjoy them from an emotional point of view.
Nick Drake
4/5
Sunday is impossibly beautiful. I'm probably in the minority here in saying this, but for me the best parts of the album are the instrumentals. The gentle soothing flute melodies, combined with delicate, complex fingerstyle guitar makes for a gentle but comforting listening experience. This is Nick Drake's best album imo.
Michael Jackson
3/5
MJ has a beautiful voice. Nice album to put on during the evening. It's okayyy, but nothing SPECIAL to me.
Big Black
4/5
Great energy. This album surprised me. I ended up really, really liking the song 'Kerosene' and that's made me look favourably on the rest of the album. It has a distinct industrial, heavy feel to it that reminds me a lot of Nine Inch Nails (during their industrial phase of course). I don't usually like industrial music, but this was great. Definitely worth a relisten. Atomizer, allow me to give you a generous 4 stars.
Eminem
4/5
Haha, this is funny af. Edgy lyrics that have a whiff of punk energy about them. Eminem is a blast of the past for me, I grew up listening to him but never checked out an album of his in full.
This was great, and discovered some cool tracks from him I've never heard before.
I preferred the 'funny' ones, but songs like Kim were heavy and it surprised me that I found it so hard to listen to. Maybe because the abusive aspect of the song felt too real.
Overall, 4 stars for Mister Marshall. I'll definitely be revisiting some of these songs.
Willie Nelson
3/5
Pleasant melodies, drenched in melancholy.
Sad boy vibes that remind me of Nick Drake/Elliott Smith.
I also really like the album cover, it's very soothing to look at and fits the mood of the album well.
Not something I'd willingly listen to again all the way through, though may check out a couple songs again.
Jungle Brothers
4/5
Hip hop with soul. Something that feels pretty rare in modern hip hop records.
This is arguably the golden era of hip hop, concious lyrics, nice samples and beats, no gangster bollocks. My kind of hip hop.
Really liked "Doing our own thing" and "Feelin alright".
Suede
3/5
Another one I wanted to like more than I really did.
I think Suede's done better albums than this, despite this being the critic's favourite.
Really incredible vocals, and some decent moments. A lot of the songs were snoozers though. I listened to this one three times but it didn't click. Maybe need to listen more?
3 stars for now, sorry Suede.
Stevie Wonder
4/5
God, this is awesome.
The vocals, the keyboard, piano, guitar...so damn funky.
It would be pretty hard NOT to like this.
The Pretty Things
2/5
it got worse and worse as i kept listening. basically a rip off beatles-sounding band. perhaps the first song could be described as decent but it got progessively worse after that. no thanks :( BAD!
Miles Davis
3/5
Good album to read to. Puts one in a calm, concentrated manner.
This is only the second jazz album I've ever heard - being new to the genre, I'm still not sure what to make of this but I think I liked it.
The man knows how to play his trumpet.
Madonna
3/5
production is great on this. which is not necessarily great for my ears - i tend to prefer raw kind of songs. regardless, this has some good moments. it almosth as an electronic feel to it, which i wouldn't have expected. easily something to put on and dance to in a club.
highlights (aka decent songs) : Shanti, ray of light
The Beach Boys
3/5
This would probably sound better during the summer....(it's autumn right now)
I liked a few songs (don't go near the water, feel flows)
but it pales in comparison to pet sounds. a lot of filler on here. At least it was short.
4/5
Warm...bursts of nostalgia listening to this. I've done a 360 when it comes to oasis, really liked them then became convinced they were overrated, average and a copy of the beatles (despite never hearing 'beatles' vibes from their songs), and now I realise they're just great.
Good album, introduced me to some songs of their's I haven't heard before.
People, don't be ashamed of enjoying Oasis songs. They are good.
Boards of Canada
4/5
The best way to appreciate this album is to listen to it at night. It will be a lackluster experience to hear this electronic album during the day.
I've heard this a few times before, and am familiar with this genre, so it was a nice listen for me.
I can imagine people unfamiliar with electronic music might struggle with this a lot. But I dig it.
Roygbiv is so damn good. Happy cycling has crunchy, satisfying drums. Olsen and colour of fire hit at 3am.
Big Brother & The Holding Company
2/5
no offence but her voice is really aggravating to listen to. yoko ono over janis joplin anyday of the week, thats what i say.
"Pieces of my heart" was surprisingly decent.
overall, this sound isn't for me. i don't like it and i really, really don't like janis' vocals here. this is a real drag to get through.
Black Sabbath
3/5
Solid. This is my second listen, and I enjoyed it a lot more this time. I missed the rock sound on 'Changes', despite it having 55 million listens on spotify, I didn't fw it. Snowblind and tomorrow's dream were my favs. I'm not blown away enough to give it anything higher than 3, still a reasonable listen.
Love the energy of Supernaut.
Also, wtf is "FX" doing on there?
Pulp
4/5
Used to really like this in 2020. Still do..but not as much as before.
Very good lyrics/sound tho. Something changed is my fav.
Gary Numan
3/5
Had some cool electronic moments. I preferred the intstrumental songs.
OK but I used to like Gary Numan more a couple years ago compared to now. I dunno why.
Nine Inch Nails
4/5
mate this is sick
it's heavy like metal, but its too 'alternative' to be proper metal. screaming vocals, very good drums
also awesome album art. Some electronic moments too, which are cool.
I can see why this is popular.
Yes...the drumming is a big standout of this album.
Hugh Masekela
2/5
I just can't get into this, sorry. Maybe I'm too dumb to appreciate jazz.
It just felt like background music.
Beastie Boys
4/5
Solid Beasties album. Album I dug a lot during my teens, but doesn't hit the same now. Nonetheless, sound of science never gets boring.
Frankie Goes To Hollywood
2/5
worse than i expected. i've been having a hard-on for the 80s recently - all things 80s music so i was looking forward to listening to this. but it was the definition of lower mid music - some ok songs, most are dull and skippable. i cannot understand how this is an essential album in the slightest.the only interesting song is relax.
The Clash
4/5
I've heard this too many times.
It's good but doesn't hit the same way it used to.
Really consistent quality of songs though, considering the album length. Big up the Clash :)
Thelonious Monk
2/5
Not for me. I prefer Thelonious' songs with just piano.
David Bowie
2/5
Because I'm familiar with Bowie's great albums, this is very much a dissappointment.
There's nothing special or moving about this.
I hold Bowie to higher standards than I would any other artist, so I'd expect better from him.
I'm glad blackstar was so much better than this, what an awful thing it would be if this had ended up being Bowie's last studio album.
Throwing Muses
2/5
This sucks. Maybe it's something I could learn to love with enough listens. But on a first listen, it is very disappointing.
The songs are boring. Vocals are ok, but mostly the songs are forgettable.
It's weird I disliked this, because usually I like post-punk indie stuff like this. Probably wasn't the best introduction to this band.
Frank Sinatra
2/5
Meh, I prefer Chet Baker.
This is ok, feels very much like a late night album.
Kind of a drag to get through it, a lot of the songs are too similar so it gets predictable. But it's a 50s album so I guess I shouldn't judge it too harshly.
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
4/5
Very nice!
This was very dark, and many of the songs were story rich, which added another level of interest to the album.
Nick Cave's gloomy, brooding voice, with melancholy piano and choppy guitar is my kind of thing.
Nitin Sawhney
2/5
Meh, I prefer talvyn singh's stuff...
John Prine
3/5
On a few more listens, I think I could grow to like this more.
Still quite nice. Original lyrics, sung in a gentle voice and accompanied by lovely guitar.
I don't tend to listen to acoustic/folk/country music that much, so this was a nice change. I've also heard good things about John Prine before, so it was nice to check him out for the first time.
Overall OK, but might get better on future listens.
(really liked Spanish pipedream and quiet man)
Le Tigre
3/5
Nice energy, I fuck with the riot grrrl genre. Having said that, I don't know if I liked all the songs on here. Some felt forgettable. Despite the quirkiness and originality, I can't see myself revisiting this one often. I should relisten to see if I change my mind though.
Also for a band with a french name, they should've sung in french for at least one song.
fave: what's yr take on cassevetes?
Tricky
3/5
I usually like trip hop a lot. Much of this was hit or miss. Some good stuff like you don't or abbaon fat tracks (good lyrics).
Think I'll need to revisit this and have another crack at it. Some good choices with sampling though.
Tears For Fears
3/5
Head over heels was a nice discovery. Already familiar with the bangers shout and everybody wants to rule the world. the rest of the songs were forgettable and boring - so the album is average overall with a couple of exceptional songs. i reckon their other album was a lot better and more consistent.
Kate Bush
4/5
I love Kate Bush. This album is more experimental, and makes for a unique listening experience. I enjoyed it a lot, and I respect Kate Bush'es willingless to pursue what SHE wants to do with her music. Very important album to a lot of future creative female musicians (eg Bjork).
Santana
3/5
Pretty decent. I really liked the track Black Woman/Gypsy Queen. A nice album to enjoy on summer's day.
Mother's daughter was also a standout track. Even though I liked it, I wasn't as impressed with it as I expected to be. Ratings on RYM for this album are particularly strong, but I just thought it was good. Therefore..3 stars.
Dusty Springfield
3/5
It's ok, not really for me though. Nice voice but only Son of a preacher man was thoroughly enjoyable.
James Taylor
2/5
No thank you. No..no thanks.
There's genuinely no song on this that I'd consider listening to again.
But I must concede he has a good singing voice, and plays his guitar well. I just wouldn't want to experience this album ever again.
Nina Simone
3/5
It grew on me more as I listened. Lilac Wine and Wild is the Wind are outstanding songs (though I confess to preferring the cover versions more, simply because I heard those first).
I don't think this is Nina Simone's best, and I've heard more moving songs from her.
Red Hot Chili Peppers
4/5
The guitarist, bass player and drummer are all very good. This deserves 4 stars.
The less we say about the singer, the better (he's a nonce)
Kendrick Lamar
3/5
There are some good samples on this album. King Kunta and These Walls are OK songs. I just can't understand how this is THE number 1 album on RYM. It's not that good surely, or am I missing something? It feels like a drag to listen to. It's far too long.
[halfway into the album later]
OK, coming towards the end of the album I was surprised by 'i'. Actually quite good. I'll give this album 3 stars for this song.
But there are moments in the songs where I almost like it so I'm torn between 2 or 3 stars.
Considering the hype this album has, I'm majorly dissappointed. Kendrick's done better albums than this.
The Dave Brubeck Quartet
3/5
Not bad for a jazz album. I usually struggle with this genre, but I enjoyed this. Nice to put on whilst doing something else. I'm tempted to offer 4 stars to this but it didn't make me...feel anything. A good album to put on for relaxation or concentrating on a task. I'd recommend this one to people who don't usually like jazz, this album might make them reconsider. Highlight - Kathy's Waltz and Blue Rondo a la turk.
Elliott Smith
4/5
Elliott's vocals are gentle, pure and comforting. The perfect album to listen to when depressed. Between the bars is exceptionally good. Great, great album overall - I'd recommend to anyone!
Curtis Mayfield
2/5
I want to like this. Curtis Mayfield has a lovely voice, and the guitar/backing band are great as well. But somehow I just dislike the songs. It's a strain to listen to this. I appreciate the message of the album, but it's just not for me. Can't get into it. Maybe I need to try again with it, but for now, it's getting two stars.
Marvin Gaye
3/5
I recently listened to 'Let's get it on' so can't help but compare it to this album. I don't like Here,my dear as much. I miss the sexiness from the get it on album. This one feels more sleek, more soulful but ultimately not my thing. (Best listened to in hot weather.)
Having said that, it is very good musically. There are still good songs on this.
'Anna's song' was my favourite track. Pretty solid. The rest seemed to blend into each other and didn't stand out.
Public Image Ltd.
5/5
How is this one of the lowest rated albums on here?! You people have no taste. This is one of the greatest post-punk albums ever made, thanks mostly to Mr Keith Levene with the incredible guitar, and Jah Wobble with the gorgeous dub-style bass. Lydon's lyrics give the album an extra kick.
I've heard this album countless time and I love the sex pistols and a lot of other work Lydon has done so of course I'm very biased about my adoration of this album. On a first listen, I don't think I 'got' this album. So in all fairness, it will take time for someone to appreciate just how good it is.
Fav tracks: Religion II. So angry. I love it.
Annalisa and Theme are great. Theme in particular has a great opening bassline. And lydon's screaming on it must have disgusted so many listeners :)
PJ Harvey
3/5
I love PJ Harvey so I really wanted to like this. Sadly I don't think this type of folk music is for me, but I appreciate the creativity and talent that PJ put into it. 'Let England Shake' is a good song.
Pj's vocals are really gorgeous as well. This album doesn't resonate with me though sadly. Perhaps on a few more listens it could grow on me. For now, I'm ranking it as a mid (3 stars). I can see why a different sort of listener might love this though.
The Stranglers
5/5
Punk perfection. Easiest 5 ever.
Marvin Gaye
4/5
A very romantic, sexy album. I'm listening to this in the mild heat of May, and it works perfectly on a hot day. Definitely a seasonal album.
You sure love to ball is...wow. Very sexy. Might also be my favourite. This is also the track persuading me to give this album 4 stars :)
Let's get it on the track is very good. Problem is that it's been used in memes so much I can't enjoy it.
I quite liked Please stay and Distant lover (lyrics mostly) as well.
This is a great album to put on when you're in the right mood. Blissful soul at it's best.
On RYM, one user aptly put it in their list of 'Albums to have sex to'.
Massive Attack
4/5
Way better than I remember! This is a re-listen, I orginally heard it 3 years ago and thought it was alright. But hearing it now? Very impressed, it was much better than I expected. Nice blend of songs - chill trip hop vibes to more hip hop sounding songs. Exhibits the perfect levels of chill and can almost instantly make you feel calm. I love the songs: weather storm, Protection, Euro child and Sly. Listening to this has revived my appreciated for Massive Attack and made me remember again why I decided to do this whole 1001 album generator thing in the first place. It's worth it :)
Sonic Youth
3/5
I like the sound, the style and aesthetic that Sonic Youth has. But a lot of these songs were misses, and did nothing for me. A lot of decent songs as well like Sugar Kane and Wish Fullfillment.
I'm gonna be generous and give this a 3. Something about the grunge sound here had potential to be better, but it ain't too bad.
Jeff Beck
1/5
The fact this is on '1001 albums to listen to before you die' shows you how white-centric this whole thing is. This is boring old white man music. This is the type of music people imagine when you say 'old music'. So dull.
Sure, the technical guitar playing is impressive. But there's no soul in the vocals. A lot of these songs were originally written by black artists. These artists knew about real soul and real art. Jeff Beck hasn't made art with this album. He made something technically impressive, but nothing more. Who actually sits there and enjoys listening to this crap? No one under the age of 45.
The Black Keys
2/5
this is a rip off white stripes band.
i'll admit that i do enjoy their song 'Lonely boy' from the El Camino album, but did they ever make another significant song like that again?
in this album, they didn't. 'Howlin for you' was quite decent, and the only standout track. 'The only ones' was tolerable. The rest of the album was dull and forgettable. This is the definitive safe and boring sound. I'd rather listen to something excessively shit, than this crappy mediocrity.
Chicago
3/5
The distinct feeling here is: I'm so glad it's over!
Don't get me wrong, some of the songs were OK.
Lots of guitar solos, nice vocals - feels very jazzy. Not sure this is my cup of tea really. Feels very much like an album of it's time.
Some other thoughts:
Poem 58 has fun guitar. Favourite track so far.
Freeform guitar isn't even a song. it's a crappy soundcheck. Kinda ruined the album for me.
I'm a man is quite decent. Sounds like a typical 70s rock ballad, a song of its times. still good. Could've been played on the Life on mars tv show soundtrack.
Someday - vocals sound autotune-y. how is that even possible when this is a late 60s album? regardless, it is annoying and I dislike it.
I'm being very generous with a 3 star rating.
The Gun Club
4/5
Wow. This is fucking awesome.
I knew from the first track, 'Sex Beat' I was in for a good ride.
I was already familiar with 'She's like heroin to me', one of my favourite songs. Listening to this album in full was long overdue for me. I'm so glad I finally have!
Aside from Sex Beat, I also really liked 'Ghost on the highway'. 'Fire spirit' was pretty good too.
This entire album is just..my kinda thing. It's got nice, raw vocals, with dark and clever lyrics. A real post-punky blues feel to it.
The album cover as well is great. Not that I understand what's going on in it, but I dig it all the same.
EDIT: ooh bit cheeky, I just heard a n=word slur in the song 'black train'. Very edgy. That's what it's all about with this kind of post-punk, I won't hold it against them.
U2
3/5
This has a lovely post-punky sound. Sunday bloody Sunday is the obvious stand out track, strong and emotionally packed.
This album is produced by Steve Lillywhite (same guy who helped produce a very good XTC album called Drums and Wires.). It also has a great album cover. Great lyrics, message. It ticks all the boxes but there were only a few songs that really got me. The others were alright.
Torn between a 3 and a 4 for this. I think if I listen to this more I could really learn to love it.
Other highlights: 40, seconds, refugee,Surrender
The Flaming Lips
4/5
This album oozes creativity and imagination. It's playful, psyechdelic and melancholic. Also, what a lovely album cover.
I must admit I've heard this album once before, about two years ago now. So it was nice to be reminded how good this is. Especially the track 'fight test', my favourite. It's summertime and do you realise are also standout tracks.
I'm also surprised this came out in 2002, I always thought of it as a 90s album.
I'm listening to this in moderate heat currently - this is definitely a summer album imo.
What I will say is that the highs are particularly...high and the lows of this album are...noticeable. What I mean by this is that some tracks are totally skippable, but then songs like do you realise make you aware of how good the album is and make you want to keep listening. So I can forgive this album for the lack of consistency(quality) in places.
Overall...good trippy fun. Take 4 stars from me, Flaming Lips.
Small Faces
3/5
There seems to be a big contrast between the first and second sides. The second side of the album hugely lets the album down.
First side was strong and I was quite impressed by 'Lazy Sunday'. Could've easily been a 4 star album if second side wasn't so bad.
Beatles
3/5
Christ, this is overrated. By Beatle's standards I mean. On it's own it's still a very good album. But the best of the best? I think not.
It's a crime that Mr Mustard is only 1 minute long, it was one of my favourites from the album.
Well, it's about time I finally listened to this in full. Was I particularly impressed? Nope. Is 3 stars a fair rating? Nope, but that's my score regardless.
Penguin Cafe Orchestra
3/5
I really like the first track, but lost interest quite quickly after that.
It's a shame because the album cover is awesome. Very original. Can't get enough of penguins, me. But the cool penguin cover can't persuade me to give this album anything higher than a 3.
Common
3/5
This is the kind of album I was really looking for today. Really excited to listen to this.
The rapping in 'GO' reminds of Kanye West. EDIT: Turns out Kanye is rapping in this, Common is just the producer.
Sadly it wasn't as good as I expected. Decent but didn't blow me away. Has to be a three. Will deffo re-listen at some point.
Cocteau Twins
4/5
Holy moly, wow. This is incredible. A side is literally perfect.
I've started the B-sides and they're proving to be as magical as the A Side. This album is something very special.
The last two tracks slightly lose momentum from the rest of the album. But on their own, they are still brilliant songs.
This is the first album I am giving 5 stars to which I have only heard once all the way through. Usually I need a good few listens or some familiarity of the album beforehand to award the prestigious 5 stars. I'd heard Lorelai before but knew nothing of the rest of the album.
Overall. This album? It lives up to it's title... this is music to treasure.
Little Richard
3/5
Tutti Fruitt and Long tall Sally are absolute classics. It's a shame the rest of the album sounds aged and doesn't hold up compared to those two songs.
Big up Little Richard though, great voice.
The Mamas & The Papas
3/5
I'm listening to this in the sun - this is definitely a summer album (which I then confirmed on the wiki page)
Monday, Monday feels like a classic 60s pop song. Comfy and nostalgic. Enjoyed this.
Straight shooter - it's good but sounds a LOT like a beatles song. Very beatles-esque. Too much for my liking.
Got a feelin - Just want to sit in the sun and brood in sadness with this one. Melancholic summery gloop
Call your name - quite like this one. can imagine this being played in a sentimental film or tv show. A highlight for me.
do you wanna dance - Nice. I prefer this to the beach boy's version
go where you wanna go - probably my least favourite so far. It's so-so.
California dreamin - despite being their classic song, and im already well familiar with it, didn't enjoy it as much as expected
Spanish harlem - think we're getting more into the filler songs. just feels OK.
By the time we get to 'hey girl' (another beatles-esque song), it's all starting to feel a little samey. The quality is wearing off.
The in crowd - An unremarkable song
Something I can appreciate with this one - the songs don't go on too long. It's easy pop listening, really. Overall, it had some good points but it won't last in my memory as something spectacular. I'd recommend this to Beatles fan boys. Can't give this anymore than 3 stars.
Astrud Gilberto
3/5
Her vocals remind me of the singer from stereolab. This album is what stereolab would sound like if it ventured into bossa nova music.
I have no idea who this artist is or what kind of music she makes. Nice to go into an album with no preconceptions.
'Misty roses' is really soothing. Favourite track so far.
A side is a mixed bag of nice songs, one boring track (parade) and a few forgettable ones. Overall seems like a nice listening experience.
Louis Prima
4/5
I must emphasise that I really am not a 'jazz' person, but I genuinely enjoyed this - a lot more than I was expecting to.
The opening track was a strong one 'just a gigolo' was melancholy but somehow maintained a playful feeling to it. This playful, spontaneous energy can be heard throughout the album - it's begging you to break out into a jive.
Louis Prima's vocals remind me of James Brown in places, it's an iconic voice that suits the feel of the album. Somewhere between gravelly and muscular.
The saxophone playing is all over the place...and I mean that in the best way possible. I didn't get bored listening to this, and how could I?
Favourite tracks: "just a gigolo", "I'll be glad when you're dead".
The Who
3/5
Well, well, well. I went through a bit of a journey with this album. First comes the doubt, then the stubborn certainty that what I was listening to was mid, and finally the genuine surprise towards the end.
What I am starting to notice with this challenge is that I'll listen to an album, find one or two songs I enjoy, and the rest are forgotten. It is very rare to find an album so consistent that all songs are enjoyed and remembered.
With this album, the pattern remains.
There are two brilliant songs in this album: Baba O Riley (already familiar with this one), and Won't Get Fooled again (new song for me, and a real pleasant surprise. Aside from the fact it goes on too long, really liked this). Behind blue eyes is quite decent as well, the lyrics caught my attention.
What I'd advise listeners is that those three tracks are worth your time, and don't bother with the rest. They aren't all that.
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
3/5
People ain't no good was a strong highlight. I'll be listening to that for a while I reckon, very good song!
Overall, this was a thoroughly decent album. I prefer the more jaded/dark side to Nick Cave I saw in 'Murder Ballads', so I'm giving this 3 stars.
The Cars
3/5
I''ll admit that I listened to this album 2 year ago so this is a relisten and I am very biased. Here we go.
First 3 songs are solid. I'm in touch with your world is a step down in quality, but still decent.
\"Bye bye love\" was also unexpectedly good.
This is my kind of sound. Post-punky/power pop sort of feel.
Something I really appreciate with this album - it's brevity. 30-40 minute lenght albums are the optimum length. They don't go on too long, but go on long enough to demonstrate talent or lack thereof. So as this album is 35 minutes, this is truly in the golden zone.
Overall I'm giving this 3 stars because whilst there were some good songs, the consistency wasn't great - there were plenty of boring songs mixed with the bangers.
Bob Dylan
3/5
Possibly my most controversial rating yet...
I enjoyed the melancholy sound of Blood on the Tracks. It is sad, gentle, soothing and moving in places. On a first listen, I found many of the songs disposably and samey. However, others stood out.
"You're gonna make me lonesome when you're gone" was a real highlight. Simple, sad and beautiful. Also really enjoyed 'Tangled up in Blue'.
I'm no huge Dylan fan, more of a Dylan skeptic really, but I (vaguely) understand the love for this album. It's got something to it, but it didn't resonate enough with me to give it anything higher than 3 stars. Not bad bobby, might give this another spin.
Waylon Jennings
2/5
Mid cowboy music. A couple of decent songs, most of this is a snoozefest. I would've died happy not listneing to this.
OK tunes: Honky Tonk Heroes, Old Five and Dimers.
Steely Dan
4/5
Quintesssential Dad rock innit.
I won't deny it though, it sounds pretty great in the sun.
'Only a fool would say that' I am already familiar with, and I consider this the best song on the album. I'll never get bored of this banger.
One of the greatest albums ever? I don't know about that, but it does sound pretty good. The last 3 tracks let it down but overall this is too strong for me NOT to give 4 stars to.
It ain't cool music and this certainly isn't my usual go to genre of music, but it's undeniably a good listening experience. And what's this one album a day thing for, if not to expand music tastes?
Top 3 tracks: Only a food would say that, Dirty work, reelin in the years
King Crimson
3/5
Another album where one track was a stand out and the rest were 'meh'.
Objectively, I'm sure King Crimson are doing something special here. I can recognise this album was influential and is beloved to many music fans.
I do love the album cover, I must say.
I talk to the wind is a nice soothing, late night track. Lovely stuff. The rest felt forgettable. Maybe they'll catch on with me on further listens.
Isaac Hayes
4/5
Wow. Smooth, soulful, gorgeous.
It's a bit of a challenge listening to 4 songs with substantial length. But Isaac made this worth it.
One Woman really impressed me. I got goosebumps listening to it.
Hayes' 'Walk on by' cover is grand, romantic and completely his own. An excellent cover that neither overshadows Dionne Warwick, nor underwhelms.
Hyperbolicsyllabicsesquedalymistic is a middling song. We have more lovely soul vocals, smooth bass, but it isn't hitting like the others. The ultra long song title is charming though.
Speaking of titles, 'Hot Buttered Soul' has to be one of the most delicious album titles I've heard - and combined with the beautiful shining bald noggin of Hayes - it really amps up the aesthetics of the album to its peak. Even before I've started listening, I'm impressed. I'm interested. I'm ready to experience something gorgeous!
'By the time I get to phoenix' is my least favourite. It's too long. I'm not interested in the talking for the first 8 minutes. It drags. The vocal part is nice but again, not the best.
Overall, solid 4. The good supremely outweighs the bad. This was a true pleasure to experience.
The White Stripes
3/5
Surprisingly disappointing.
I've always known about the singles from this album, Fell in love with a girl and Dead leaves on the dirty ground. Both solid tunes. I foolishly expected the rest of the album to hold this same quality.
I'd never gotten round to checking the entire album out, and now that I have I wish that I hasn't bothered. Essentially the rest of the songs are filler and mediocre at best.
It really wasn't worth my time, honestly. Having said that, still appreciate The White Stripes for creating some of the 21st Century's best rock songs up to date - particularly in a century where rock is dying a slow and tragic death - but listening to this album makes me think the white stripes are a dreaded 'singles' band.
it's a generous 3/5 from me
The Residents
3/5
What an intriguing album. Fascinating album cover as well.
I haven't looked at the reviews but I can imagine you lot will be seething about how terrible this is. Heh!
I love how wacky and out there this album is. It's odd. Bizarre. Yet equal parts fascinating as well. The one thing you can't accuse this album of being is boring.
This album feels like it is in same vein as Throbbing Gristle, but rather more accessible.
I'd have to be in a pretty strange mood to put this on again all the way through, but I reckon I'll check out songs like 'the lauging song' again for the shits and giggles.
Take my 3 stars, residents.
MGMT
4/5
Better than I remember. I've heard this before. Always liked a couple of songs, but never felt this was MGMT's strongest album - even if it was the one to bring them their first taste of success. This new listen hasn't changed that opinion either, but I recognise the album's importance, and why so many people like it.
The first 3 tracks are the strongest. 'Youth' ended up being one of my favourites from the album. They both touch on the ideas of lost youth, growing up and the consequences of this.
It's a poppy psychedelic, electronic trip. This new listen has helped me appreciate songs from the album outside of the classics: 'Kids' (also known for its music video that portrays what feels like borderline child abuse) and 'Time to pretend'. Both are still bangers though, of course.
Something interesting from the wiki - the guy who produced this album was the same person who produced the flaming lips' music. You can really hear the similarities between both bands. Both psychdelic/trippy sounds.
I'm feeling generous today so I will give this 4 stars.
Sisters Of Mercy
3/5
I'm big into my goth rock/post punk, so I was disappointed to find I didn't enjoy this as much as I wanted to.
Something about the vocals did not work for me - it was missing a spark.
The songs, despite all sounding different - which is something I can appreciate, and sets it apart from being purely a mid album, all blend into one for me bar one. They aren't bad, just...forgettable.
HOWEVER: Lucretia my reflection was a solid tune. Well deserved with the 30M+ listens on spotify. Great bassline. A stand out track that prevented me from fully disliking the album. On the whole though, not the best.
Bill Callahan
4/5
Unexpectedly excellent. This is an album I went into completely blind, but the first song entranced me.
My notes whilst listening:
Jim Cain - Oustanding song. Made me realise Callahan is the singer from Smog. Distinctive voice. Lovely, soothing guitars. Excited for the rest of this album.
Jim Cain - Oustanding song. Made me realise Callahan is the singer from Smog. Distinctive voice. Lovely, soothing guitars. Excited for the rest of this album.
The wind and the dove - Feels haunting in places. Twinkly piano. Slow and melodic. I like.
Rococo Zephyr - Nice build up with this song. Kinda reminds me of Jim White acoustic songs. 'jaunty as a bee' is a great lyric.
All thoughts are prey to some beast - my second favourite. Lots going on with this one. Also one great song title.
Invocation of ratiocination - No singing but makes for a nice ambient track. Probably the weakest on the album though.
Faith/void - Really like this, with the lyrics covering Faith and God. Bloody gorgeous guitar on this too. Man oh man. What a way to end an album!
'It's time to put God away'
Just when you start losing faith in the 1001 album generator, an album like this comes along and the hope returns.
This is really something. Brilliant music, charming lyrics. I enjoyed this throughout, it continued to impress me more and more. Highly recommended.
Pet Shop Boys
2/5
I like the pet shop boys singles. But christ, the more I listened to this, the more it agitated me. The combination of Neil Tennant's vocals with the poppy electronic sound were an awful combination. Some of the songs at the start were OK (different point of view for example), but it really over welcomed it's stay.
'Go weest' was interesting purely because it sounds like it came from an advert? I'm torn between 3 and 2 stars. I'm going with 2 stars, screw it.
John Coltrane
3/5
I still don't know what to make of this. I'm not a fluent jazz listener, this is all new to me. At a loss about whether or not I like this.
Resolution and Psalm were my favourite tracks. The saxophone feels prominent in both songs - in resolution it is fierece and solemn. In Psalm, the sax is rather more melancholic and brooding.
Songs felt long but as an overall album it's short. Tight.
Feels like I'm drowning in notes of music!
The story behind the album is interesting as well. Torn between a 3 or 4 for this.
Hawkwind
3/5
A lot, lot better than I could have expected. I went into this one with no context on the band or the music. Sure, I got psychedelic 'vibes' from the album cover, but that did not necessarily mean it would be decent!
A couple of things. The bass in these songs is really something. In a word? Meaty. Not a big fan of the vocals really, but the fuzzy, psychedelic guitar helps balance this out. Yeah, the guitar is as magical as the place in places.
A lot of great 70s rock songs here. Here's a couple that my ears particularly enjoyed: Born to Go. There's some great moments of bass and guitar fuzziness towards the middle of the song. Goes on a little too long for it's own good, but still solid. I'd kill to play bass that well. This is only the second song into the monster live album as well, so this album really pummels that guitar and bass into the listener.
Electronic No.1 also stood out to me. It sounds like a moog song - something Mort Garson might've come up with. It feels entirely unique compared with the rest of the album, so I have a special soft spot for it.
Whilst this review is mostly positive, I will say that a lot of the songs 'melted' into each other and became forgettable. Others were simply average and didn't make the same impact. It lacks consistency for me to give it more than a 3. But I feel on further listens, I could grow to appreciate this more.
Blondie
3/5
As someone who adores new wave and Blondie songs usually, this was surprisingly boring.
Aside from the singles: Hanging on the telephone, One way or another, Sunday Girl and Heart of Glass(all brilliant songs), I found the rest of the album disappointing. This is one of Blondie's most popular albums, but it was lacking something. Perhaps Blondie are a 'singles band'. Or maybe I need to give it another chance? It wasn't a bad album. Just quite lackluster; I expected better.
Lou Reed
4/5
Very camp. I knew most of these songs anyway, but it was nice to finally hear the whole thing.
I still think the best stuff Lou Reed did was with The Velvet Underground, rather than solo stuff. eg, Satellite of Love was originally recorded as a VU demo.
But this is proper good, regardless.
Fiona Apple
4/5
Strong album with punchy tunes. It's a feminist album without being obvious about it. The entire thing is bubbling with talent, definitely something special. She's the next Kate Bush to me. Not because she copies Bush (her style is completely her own) but because she is authentic and clearly an excellent song writer.
Here's a break down of some of the songs:
Sleep to dream is a banger. Slow like honey showcases Apple's luscious, haunting vocals. A slow, dark banger of a song.
The last two tunes were quite dull to be honest, the album would have been better without them. However, the strong songs make up for it.
I love the rarity of finding a genuinely original, talented female song writer baring her soul to her listeners. Real glad I found this!
Ice Cube
4/5
I went into this rather biased. First, I was in the mood for hip hop. Second, I'd heard several of the songs from this album before and enjoyed them.
Listening to the entire record, I can now be sure that the songs I'd heard previously were the best off the album. It was nice to get a full picture of the album.
This album has a strong political message, despite the fact this is essentially 'gangster rap'. It's rap that is saying something meaningful. Particularly enjoyed the Malcom X references.
Some new discoveries I enjoyed:We had to tear this motherfucker up and Say Hi to the Bad Guy.
Definitely not the album to start with for a hip hop beginner!
Having said that, classics like Check Yo Self and It was a good day are likely to help newbies warm to Ice Cube. This is a solid hip hop album.
Coldplay
4/5
I did not WANT to like this, because liking Coldplay is about as cliched as it gets. People have called Coldpaly overrated for so long, I was fully prepared to dislike this. However despite myself, I couldn't help becoming endeared by the album. This was after all, their debut album, a stepping stone that was crucial in establishing Coldplay as one of the most popular and well known British artists of the 21st Century.
The vocals are earnest, passionate, chock full of emotion. The songs are genuinely beautiful, without being overly sentimental. Particular stand outs for me are Yellow (incredibly, I've never heard this song before), Don't Panic and my favourite, Trouble.
I was musing between a 3 and 4, but screw it. This is good music, and I enjoyed it throughout. Take my 4 stars.
The Velvet Underground
5/5
It is a brilliant album. Anything I try and say about this will not do it justice.
Naturally, I've heard this many times and am aware of it's genius.
For a first time listener however, this may not be a 5 star experience. But it sure is for me.
Youssou N'Dour
3/5
My first afro-pop album!
This album radiates with joy and positivity. The perfect music for a hot sunny day. I enjoyed this, though because I'm new to the genre I feel as thought I can't appreciate it the way a more experienced asfro-pop listener might?
The songs all kind of melted into each other, there weren't any stand out tracks. I liked that it was short and sweet though. Made it's point and then left. I think I'd need to listen to more afro-pop to form a more solid opinion on this. My main takeaway is that it's OK to listen to, clearly the artist is very talented as a musician and singer, but I feel as though I'm not getting as much out of it as I should be.
Jurassic 5
3/5
Good production on this. Certainly a refreshing hip hop album compared with the likes of your average gangster rap record.
Yes, so this is certainly something different, which I appreciate. However, I don't think the rapping itself was particularly good. Nor was the content of the lyrics especially interesting. I would've preferred this more if it was an instrumental hip hop album.
More instrumentals, less words would've made this a better album.
Johnny Cash
4/5
I've been looking for an exucse to listen to this in full, and finally the album generator has granted me that chance.
I was familiar with a couple of songs from this, and already loved them. Listening to this in full, however, is a much fuller experience.
I love the live energy of this, the songs are country, but sung with soul and passion.
This is one of the best live albums of all time for good reason. Sad, mournful, with the energy of a sinner on his way to redemption.
Keith Jarrett
5/5
Bloody beautiful, this is.
Part I, wow
The footstomps/pleasure noises, subtle little noises, add even more to this. They're like the cherry on top. The last part of the track from about 20:00 to the end is truly the most magnificant climax to one hell of an opening track.
THIS beauty is an example of why I started the 1001 album generator, to find gems like this. Finding genuinely beautiful music is a mystifying experience. Live albums, particularly "solo piano" are hardly my thing.
But this? This is iiano playing that takes you to a higher plane of existence. As hippy as that sounds, there is something both spiritual and transcedent about experiencing this.
Second track is, in some ways, more gorgeous, more melodic than the first. It's like track 1 was just Keith getting warmed up, and he really takes what he gets from the climax of that song and puts it into the next song.
I'm not too familiar with the story behind this album. I'm vaguely aware there is something behind it, but I'm rating this purely on the music. Because even without the story, this is still a musical marvel.
Third track is a little steadier (and honestly, weaker) than the first two. Much calmer, but still very good.
4th tracks picks up again, and is a lovely way to end a brilliant album.
Apparently Keith Jarrett himself wants to burn any recordings of the concert. Which is truly a tragedy.
The Police
4/5
This is a good album on it's own. But as a pretty big Police album, I can't help but rank it against other Police albums I've heard (Regatta, the debut). The latter mentioned are brilliant, and much better than Synchronicity. Many would disagree with that, because those two albums are much rawer.
Synchronicity is better produced, more varied musically (different styles), and arguably more experimental. It ticks a lot of boxes for me, but I just don't like a lot of the songs THAT much.
However, it's still very good, so gets my 4 stars.
Syd Barrett
3/5
Syd Barrett is a unique artist. He's distinct in both personality as well as his music. Terrapin is a calming, psychedelic song that stood out to me. But without a doubt, Here I Go is the best song on the album.
The high points on this are great, the trouble is that the other songs are forgettable, and sadly, boring to listen to.
I listened to Madcap laughs intensely 5 years ago, it was nice to return to the album today. Overall, a mixed bag, but worth checking out for the few very good songs on here.
Dire Straits
5/5
So close to 5 stars, but the songs Ride Across the River, The Man's too strong and One World let it down for me. Probably the most significant drop in quality I've experienced in an album. Remove those three and it's a damn masterpiece. Luckily the album ends on a high with Brothers in Arms track.
Incredible album though. Gorgeous guitar, and there's something about Mark Knopfler's vocals (especially on Money For Nothing, so cocky) that are so satisfying to listen to.
The high points on this album are considerably good.
I should add I've heard this album many times and already consider it a favourite. It sounds best in the summer. Beautiful stuff.
Actually, fuck it, take my 5 stars. This is too good.
Fats Domino
3/5
An OK, listen-able, rock n roll album. I found it very so-so, with the first track being a standout, but not even that track was special enough.
It's not something I'd listen to again personally.
This is "black music" that appealed to the masses. But it's missing a spark.
The Beach Boys
3/5
How fitting that this album should come up next on my list after the announcement that Brian Wilson passed away yesterday.
I've always liked the beach boys, especially the goated Pet Sounds album. However, I never really ventured to listen to much outside of this.
This album has some very fun, 60s poppy songs. "When I grow up" is genuinely a great song, and I'll be listening to that one frequently. "Do you wanna dance" is fun, and "Help me, Rhonda" is one of my favourite beach boys songs, though I confess to preferring to the single version.
Overall, this is a fun, catchy album. Easy, short listening, and rarely got bored throughout.
What let the album down for me was the totally unnesscary outtake included at the end.
The White Stripes
3/5
I'm giving this a very generous 3 stars.
Many of the songs were lackluster, but tunes like "My Doorbell" saved it from being a complete snooze fest. I appreciate the white stripes were going for something different here - not just sticking to their usual formula . I respect it, but ultimately it's just not as good as some of their other albums.
SZA
2/5
You know when you're just glad an album is over? THat's how I felt when I finished this.
I think pop music simply isn't for me. SZA has a great voice, strong and bold vocals.
It is the production of the album that really irritates me. Even listening to this in the summer, I cannot enjoy it.
The best track on this was wavy, and yet that was an interlude, barely 1 minute long, but went the hardest.
I gave SZA a go, but ultimately her music isn't for me. With that being said, she is clearly a talented artist.
Public Enemy
4/5
This album has reminded me of my affection for Public Enemy. In this album, the political message is as stronger as ever, just as it is in their other albums.
Some strong tunes here. In particular, Can't Truss it and Bring Tha Noize.
Really hard stuff. Easy 4 stars.
The Rolling Stones
3/5
Wild Horses is one of the best rock songs ever recorded. A truly beautiful track. It's a shame the rest of this album pales in comparison to that tune.
The rest of the album, I can take it or leave it. Nothing else was particularly remarkable. "Bitch" and "Dead Flowers" were decent, but probably forgettable.
Less sex appeal/hard rock like the album cover might suggest. Instead, this feels more gentle, introspective, and melancholy. It definitely works with Wild Horses.
I understand the appeal of the rolling stones. I like them, just not as much as your average Dad.
Prefab Sprout
4/5
If they'd just removed a few of these god awful B-sides, this could have been a perfect album.
But with what we already have, it's already pretty good. It should be universally agreed that the A-side run of the album is sheer quality. The songs just get better.
I've heard this album before, but enjoyed it much more today. Highlights for me are Bonny and Hallelujah. Where the latter is particularly underrated.
A solid, popyy, dreamy album. It has wisps of Aztec Camera about it as well, with less post punk and more pop. A gem of the 80s, one could argue.
Iron Maiden
3/5
Invaders - 3.5 stars. Fun opening.
Children of the dmned - 3 stars. dodn't enjoy as much. felt like a stereotypical rock ballad. Lacking interest.
The Prisoner - 3 stars. interesting intro in this song. overall, the album starting to feel fatiguing.
22 Accacia Avenue - again, starting to feel monotonous. good guitar solos and fun bass. i think it's the vocals that don't do it for me.
The number of the beast - this is more like it! finally i've woken up. This song really steps up the quality. Fast paced, devilish, satanic fun. 4 stars.
Run to the hills - favourite track so far. enjoyed the lyrics and pace of this. Just stands out as being catchiest.
Gangland - back to mediocre quality for most of the album. 3 stars. unremarkable tune.
Hallowed be thy name - Not at all like the Alice Cooper track with the same name. This one was alright, bit above average than some of the other tracks, 3.5 stars.
Overall, this type of heavy rock isn't for me. But I found some fun songs in this, and the guitar was good, so take my three stars...
Amy Winehouse
4/5
I'm very familiar with Amy Winehouse's big hits: Back to Black and Rehab. Both songs I have over-listened to, and therefore did not really get a kick out of them.
However, I discovered some new gems from this album.
Me and Mr Jones, Wake Up Alone and He Can Only Hold Her were raw, and had great production. This is as much a Mark Ronson album as it is an Amy Winehouse album.
Nice soulful listening in the sun, it's an obvious 4 stars.
Fugazi
4/5
Thoroughly enjoyed this. Really strong album throughout. I was already familiar with Fugazi and many of their songs. But this was the first time I sat down and properly consumed this album.
A real beast of hard core music, I can understand why Fugazi has such a devout following.
Particularly enjoyed tracks: Repeater, Two Beats Off, Blueprint
I'll definitely re-listen to this; this album requires multiple listening to get the best out of it.
Overall, really glad to have checked this out. A 1001 album generator success.
Spacemen 3
3/5
There's definitely something to this album. A distinctness about it. The noisiness coupled with the soft, warm vocals made for a unique blend. There was a contrast of harsh heavy guitar songs with sad, understated melancholy ones. Slightly jarring, but I liked that.
It started off quite weak to be honest. The first song Honey was poor quite frankly, and made me wonder whether might expectations about this album were wrong (I thought the album cover looked cool, and had vaguely heard Spacemen 3 were a shoegaze type band). Come Down Softly to my Soul was decent however.
Revolution, the first heavy song of the album, got me excited and made me realise there's a bit more going on here than just sad songs. Perhaps in a gloom of foggy depression, the sad songs would really do something for me.
Then we got to the B-sides, and I noticed a slight increase in quality. The best song of the album Lord Can you Hear me was a real highlight, and definitely helped improved my impression of the album by the end.
Overall, I think the album is interesting; it demonstrates genuine creativity. I wasn't blown away by it, but I'd be interested in hearing it again.
Pere Ubu
3/5
It's a very generous 3 stars from me. This music is alternative, weird, very capitain beefheart-inspired. Not for your average music listener, this will challenge your ear drums.
I liked a couple of the songs but I can take most of them or leave them. I'm not sure Dub Housing is the best Pere Ubu album to start with either. The Modern Dance is much better.