Aug 24 2022
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Layla And Other Assorted Love Songs
Derek & The Dominos
I'm not quite sure why nearly every song is so long - they drag. Layla is a proper banger though, even at the 7 minute run-length.
3
Aug 25 2022
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Bat Out Of Hell
Meat Loaf
4
Aug 26 2022
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Juju
Siouxsie And The Banshees
3
Aug 29 2022
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Maxinquaye
Tricky
4
Aug 30 2022
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I Should Coco
Supergrass
4
Aug 31 2022
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69 Love Songs
The Magnetic Fields
Some good stuff, but a little self-indulgent. Did not listen to the whole three hours.
2
Sep 01 2022
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Parklife
Blur
The hits are good, the other songs seem like filler.
3
Sep 02 2022
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Blood And Chocolate
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
I enjoyed one or two songs. I didn't enjoy the rest.
2
Sep 05 2022
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The White Album
Beatles
The quality of the top songs outweighs the mad shite from Paul. Superb.
5
Sep 06 2022
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Melodrama
Lorde
Not terrible, just not for me.
2
Sep 07 2022
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evermore
Taylor Swift
Really not for me. A bit daft.
1
Sep 08 2022
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Disintegration
The Cure
A bit dreary. No bangers, other than Lovesong.
2
Sep 09 2022
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Hot Fuss
The Killers
Good album, nice memories of listening to it when younger.
4
Sep 12 2022
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The Queen Is Dead
The Smiths
Was pretty fun.
3
Sep 13 2022
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3 + 3
The Isley Brothers
Not on my radar, fairly fine, wouldn't listen again.
2
Sep 14 2022
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Step In The Arena
Gang Starr
Pretty good
3
Sep 15 2022
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Autobahn
Kraftwerk
Quite enjoyed it.
4
Sep 16 2022
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Celebrity Skin
Hole
Dreary
2
Sep 19 2022
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Sunday At The Village Vanguard
Bill Evans Trio
The first few tracks put me on edge, but I got into it after a while. Pleasant surprise, have since listened to a few more of Bill's albums.
4
Sep 20 2022
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Vol. 4
Black Sabbath
Not quite as many memorable songs as on Paranoid.
3
Sep 21 2022
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Modern Life Is Rubbish
Blur
Another Blur album
2
Sep 22 2022
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Back to Mystery City
Hanoi Rocks
Fine - probably wouldn't listen again, but didn't dislike it.
3
Sep 23 2022
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The Fat Of The Land
The Prodigy
Holds up well.
4
Sep 26 2022
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No Other
Gene Clark
Loved that
5
Sep 27 2022
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The Stooges
The Stooges
Couple of hits.
3
Sep 28 2022
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S.F. Sorrow
The Pretty Things
Great start, a little meandering in the middle, and ends strongly enough. A really nice surprise.
4
Sep 29 2022
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Urban Hymns
The Verve
I can appreciate that the album is very good, just not for me.
3
Sep 30 2022
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New York Dolls
New York Dolls
Just fine
2
Oct 03 2022
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The Atomic Mr Basie
Count Basie & His Orchestra
Pretty cool.
3
Oct 04 2022
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We Are Family
Sister Sledge
Better than I expected. The album has a good flow, and can't really argue with good R&B/soul music.
3
Oct 05 2022
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At Mister Kelly's
Sarah Vaughan
Charming and relaxing.
4
Oct 06 2022
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Whatever
Aimee Mann
Found it a bit dated, however clearly some very good songwriting going on. The album seemed rather consistent too, which was nice.
3
Oct 07 2022
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Figure 8
Elliott Smith
Melancholy and hip. Great stuff, even gave it a second listen.
4
Oct 10 2022
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Golden Hour
Kacey Musgraves
Perverse to include in this list.
1
Oct 11 2022
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Fear Of Music
Talking Heads
Decent album. Realised I'd not heard much outside of their first album, will be going back and listening to more.
3
Oct 12 2022
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Kid A
Radiohead
Just not a Radiohead fan.
2
Oct 13 2022
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Pink Flag
Wire
Plenty of impact, nice and short.
4
Oct 14 2022
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Garbage
Garbage
Not my thing.
2
Oct 17 2022
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Led Zeppelin III
Led Zeppelin
More mellow than I was expecting, apart from Immigrant Song. Pleasant to listen to, not sure I'd go back and listen again though.
3
Oct 18 2022
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A Night At The Opera
Queen
Not a big queen fan, found it a bit of a slog. Love of My Life is always good, but I've heard better versions, I found the album version a bit overproduced.
2
Oct 19 2022
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If You Can Believe Your Eyes & Ears
The Mamas & The Papas
More like it. Fantastic stuff, strong sounds of the era.
4
Oct 20 2022
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Truth And Soul
Fishbone
Interesting stuff.
3
Oct 21 2022
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Born To Be With You
Dion
Nicely bland and listenable. Can't say I'd listen again, but also can't say I didn't like it, on the whole. First half of the album is stronger than the second half.
3
Oct 24 2022
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Le Tigre
Le Tigre
Met my expectations
2
Oct 25 2022
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Live At The Star Club, Hamburg
Jerry Lee Lewis
Thoroughly enjoyed it.
5
Oct 26 2022
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Destroy Rock & Roll
Mylo
Pleasant enough background music, seems a little dated now. Enjoyed a few of the "hits" but not memorable. I've listened to better background music, probably won't listen again.
2
Oct 27 2022
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Colour By Numbers
Culture Club
Didn't enjoy it, +1 bump for bad behaviour from Boy George
3
Oct 28 2022
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Want Two
Rufus Wainwright
I think the guy has a lot of artistic integrity and is consistent. Big fan of some of his music, Poses and Release the Stars are good albums. But this album never really took off for me. Unfortunately underwhelmed.
3
Oct 31 2022
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Little Earthquakes
Tori Amos
Not bad at all - didn't know what to expect and was pleasantly surprised.
4
Nov 01 2022
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Is This It
The Strokes
After a recommendation from a renowned music journalist, listened properly to the second half of the album. Four stars for that part, two for the first half.
3
Nov 02 2022
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xx
The xx
Not for me, enjoyed the intro.
2
Nov 03 2022
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L.A. Woman
The Doors
The album jumps around a bit thematically, but top quality and happy to re-listen. Great memories of Need For Speed Underground 2 for the Riders on the Storm remix, as good as the original.
4
Nov 04 2022
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Music in Exile
Songhoy Blues
Quite enjoyed that, something different. I definitely recognised one or two of the songs, no idea why or where from.
3
Nov 07 2022
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The Doors
The Doors
Double doors. Marginally better than L.A. Woman.
4
Nov 08 2022
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Face to Face
The Kinks
Nice. Real nice.
3
Nov 09 2022
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Queens of the Stone Age
Queens of the Stone Age
I expected this to be a bit more interesting, as I know Songs for the Deaf pretty well. I was disappointed - quite a lot of it was forgettable.
2
Nov 10 2022
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Teen Dream
Beach House
Definitely not for me, found it quite dreary.
1
Nov 11 2022
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Bridge Over Troubled Water
Simon & Garfunkel
Bridge over Troubled Water is a strong opener, ending triumphantly. Possibly their most famous song, Art sounds particularly good. How Paul Simon came up with the lyrics I will never understand, I find the whole composition striking and timeless.
El Condor Pasa is one of my two favourite songs on the album. Seems like it fades in and out, really captures the mood of the Peruvian Andes, despite both Paul & Art being from New York.
Cecilia is a classic – faster than most of the other songs, poppy and less plaintive, works as a nice counterpoint to most of the wonderful mournful songs on the album without jumping out as not belonging.
Keep the Customer Satisfied is a little more middling. I find it not necessarily reflective of Simon & Garfunkel, more of a world pop sound that reminds me more of Simon rather than the both of them. I like the general sound of it, jangly guitar and the refrain, but is overproduced.
So Long, Frank Lloyd Wright is pleasant but doesn’t really do anything for me.
The Boxer – this is my favourite song. I read it took them 100 hours to record, which I can believe. I’ve probably listened to it at least 100 times in the past two years. Punchy, memorable, imaginative, and I love the melody and complexity with the way the lyrics are transposed. Outstanding.
Baby Driver is very reminiscent of the era. Long break sections, a shouty chorus, can’t complain.
The Only Living Boy in New York is good. I know this is a particular favourite of a renowned music reviewer, however I can’t get as excited as he is about it. Would still listen to it over 95% of songs though.
Why Don’t You Write Me is probably my least favourite song, I find it a little derivative and weird. My LP skips on the chorus, giving it a frantic drum and bass sound.
Bye Bye Love is also excellent, especially the live version, quite a sing-along.
Song for the Asking is right up my street. Introspective, mournful, and lovely light guitar work.
To summarise, it really is an excellent album. Lots of range with it all fitting well together. What a time it would have been to be alive!
5
Nov 14 2022
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This Is Fats Domino
Fats Domino
Many classics that I had no idea were Fats Domino. Good to put a face to a sound.
4
Nov 15 2022
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B-52's
The B-52's
Much of it was quite hard to listen to. Rock Lobster was a welcome reprieve.
2
Nov 16 2022
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Master Of Puppets
Metallica
Thoroughly enjoyed it. Master of Puppets was great of course, but also really enjoyed Leper Messiah.
4
Nov 17 2022
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Club Classics Vol. One
Soul II Soul
Not really my thing at all. Started off incredibly blandly. Was going to give one star, but enjoyed the flute solo on African Dance, and Back to Life is a club banger. Two will do!
2
Nov 18 2022
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This Is Hardcore
Pulp
I had a bit of a negative view going in - I missed Pulp when they were big, but rather enjoyed the album as a whole. His singing has a certain style to it that lends itself to the melancholy numbers. The composition of the songs is overall excellent.
4
Nov 21 2022
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You Want It Darker
Leonard Cohen
Solid 4 star. Memorable and melancholy.
4
Nov 22 2022
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Shake Your Money Maker
The Black Crowes
Seems quite dated, nothing particularly sticks out. One star feels harsh, I can appreciate that it was well received at the time.
2
Nov 23 2022
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Merriweather Post Pavilion
Animal Collective
Really couldn't get into it. I don't understand why it is in this list.
1
Nov 24 2022
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Caetano Veloso
Caetano Veloso
I thought I'd like this more than I actually did. I like music from Central and South America, but I found this rather disappointing.
2
Nov 25 2022
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Brown Sugar
D'Angelo
Some of it was fine, but again not really my kind of thing. Guy has a good voice.
2
Nov 28 2022
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Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band
Beatles
Not a classic - I found it incredibly indulgent. About 4 good (and to be fair they are very good) songs, and the rest wanky psychadelic nonsense.
3
Nov 29 2022
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Private Dancer
Tina Turner
A lot of the songs sounded the same as each other. Powerful voice. Didn't enjoy the Let's Stay Together cover, -1 star.
2
Nov 30 2022
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Green River
Creedence Clearwater Revival
I have one of their compilation CDs in the (old) car, so I'm quite partial to this stuff. They pioneered a certain classic rock sound. This is one of the better albums, which, according to Google, they were churning out at an incredible rate. Green River, Bad Moon Rising, and Tombstone Shadow are my favourites.
4
Dec 01 2022
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Dusty In Memphis
Dusty Springfield
I'd had enough of this one a lot quicker than I thought.
2
Dec 02 2022
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Third/Sister Lovers
Big Star
Hadn't heard of them, but it seems that they are meant to be quite good.I thought the album was just fine, but still not overly memorable. I liked For You.
3
Dec 05 2022
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The Wall
Pink Floyd
I do like a concept album, but I struggled to get into this one. Sure, there are the famous songs, but the rest of it was a bit on the quiet side, and it dragged. Not for me, I'm afraid.
2
Dec 06 2022
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25
Adele
The extra star is for Hello, undeniably a good song. I didn't enjoy it - lots of wailing. The majority of the album is made up of forgettable easy-listening café music. Sorry Adele, better luck next time.
2
Dec 07 2022
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Kala
M.I.A.
A difficult listen. This kind of music doesn't hold up very well, in my opinion. The sound has been designed to be as annoying as possible. I forgot Paper Planes was 90% gunshots.
1
Dec 08 2022
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The Idiot
Iggy Pop
The first two songs seemed near identical. I wasn't thrilled with the rest of it.
2
Dec 09 2022
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Opus Dei
Laibach
4 stars for audacity. What works works, what doesn't work is terrifying. The album is unsettling, and I believe that was the goal. A great introduction to the neo-folk martial industrial genre! Raus!
4
Dec 12 2022
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The Velvet Underground
The Velvet Underground
I'm afraid I found this rather dull, coming off the back of Laibach. I'm sure it is great, Wikipedia seems to suggest so, but many songs felt like they never got going.
2
Dec 13 2022
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Bad Company
Bad Company
Enjoyed the sound, but a few too many tracks were on the forgettable side.
3
Dec 14 2022
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Sincere
Mj Cole
I found this challenging to listen to, rather dull and repetitive. I have to admit I didn't finish the album, sorry MJ Cole.
1
Dec 15 2022
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Pyromania
Def Leppard
Probably wouldn't listen again but I found it pretty reasonable. Reminded me of a lot of Classic Rock of the same era, of which I think there are better examples.
3
Dec 16 2022
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Technique
New Order
I expected a bit more really, I found it pleasant enough background music.
2
Dec 19 2022
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Mermaid Avenue
Billy Bragg
I enjoyed this rather a lot - Eisler on the Go and Way over Yonder in the Minor Key were great.
4
Dec 20 2022
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Arthur (Or the Decline and Fall of the British Empire)
The Kinks
I enjoy a concept album but only really liked Some Mother's Son.
3
Dec 21 2022
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Music From The Penguin Cafe
Penguin Cafe Orchestra
Some of this was pleasant as background music, but it was forgettable. Sorry penguins, should stick to swimming and fishing.
2
Dec 22 2022
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Rejoicing In The Hands
Devendra Banhart
A lot of this album was rather strange. The guy either sings in an annoying baby voice, or wails atonally. The lyrics are mostly nonsense. However I did enjoy the actual music behind the singing, which was creative and different.
3
Dec 23 2022
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Inspiration Information
Shuggie Otis
Not quite for me. Half way through it seems like he gives up on singing, lots of instrumentals.
2
Dec 26 2022
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A Christmas Gift For You From Phil Spector
Various Artists
I prefer other versions of almost every song. The Wall of Sound effect doesn't help. +1 bump for bad behaviour.
2
Dec 27 2022
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The Gershwin Songbook
Ella Fitzgerald
Beautiful voice, but almost every song sounds the same as the choices are all on the maudlin side.
2
Dec 28 2022
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Parachutes
Coldplay
I enjoyed it slightly more than I thought I would, but it isn't half dreary. Still finding their feet, I guess. Most of the album tracks are forgettable.
3
Dec 29 2022
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In It For The Money
Supergrass
I couldn't finish it. Super bland, really not my thing.
2
Dec 30 2022
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Rattus Norvegicus
The Stranglers
Quite enjoyed that. More memorable than I expected, if I have time I'll explore their back catalogue.
4
Jan 02 2023
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Maggot Brain
Funkadelic
I will instantly forget this album, only remembering that the title track is some impressive guitar spread over 10 minutes. Can appreciate the musicianship, just not for me.
2
Jan 03 2023
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Fragile
Yes
Roundabout is one of my favourite songs ever. It's insane, I've enjoyed it long before it acquired the meme status. I don't think the rest of the album quite lives up to Roundabout, despite being thoroughly listenable and clearly influenced by heavy drug use.
4
Jan 04 2023
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Trio
Dolly Parton
Considering the talent on the album, I expected more. I am disappointed, unfortunately. A lot of this is maudlin, forgettable stuff. Quite good as background music though.
2
Jan 05 2023
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You're Living All Over Me
Dinosaur Jr.
A weird one, couldn't decide if I really liked it or not. Great musicianship, although a few too many tracks veered into "noise". I liked Little Fury Things, Kracked, and Just Like Heaven.
3
Jan 06 2023
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Vulgar Display Of Power
Pantera
Really pleasantly surprised. I thought this would be lame, but it's very listenable. Great memories of 2006-2008 with Walk being on in most clubs, never knew it was Pantera. If you could distill the smell of a sweaty goth into a record, this is it. My olfactory bulb is tingling.
4
Jan 09 2023
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Wild Is The Wind
Nina Simone
Not the best from Nina. I find her best work to be the piano pieces where her voice really soars, but this album feels very dreary and overproduced.
2
Jan 10 2023
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good kid, m.A.A.d city
Kendrick Lamar
Irritating
1
Jan 11 2023
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Tigermilk
Belle & Sebastian
Jack tried to convince me this was akin to Simon and Garfunkel. I'm afraid I found it quiet and forgettable. I have heard that their other albums are good, if I have a respite from this task I might take a look through their back catalogue.
2
Jan 12 2023
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Catch A Fire
Bob Marley & The Wailers
I presumed all reggae sounded the same - I was very wrong, this album is coherent and full of individual crackers. Brilliant rhythms and artistry on display. Lots of complexity in the lyrics. Reminds me a lot of Tabac in Liverpool, they had reggae on repeat but at the stage of the evening we ended up there, I wasn't using my ears. Concrete Jungle, No More Trouble, High Tide or Low Tide - all great. Despite Kinky Reggae being a misstep, 5 stars feels deserved.
5
Jan 13 2023
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Hunky Dory
David Bowie
I've never been a big Bowie fan. I don't think this was the album to ch-ch-ch-change that, however I enjoyed patches of it.
3
Jan 16 2023
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Licensed To Ill
Beastie Boys
No Sleep till Brooklyn is great, but a whole album of very similar songs became a little bit too much.
1
Jan 17 2023
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Truth
Jeff Beck
I'm not sure what I expected, but I found it didn't really go anywhere. I'm not sure I'd listen to any of the songs again, and unfortunately I didn't find it memorable.
2
Jan 18 2023
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The Chronic
Dr. Dre
Feels dated now, and Snoop does all the heavy lifting.
2
Jan 19 2023
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Doolittle
Pixies
Never really listened to anything by the Pixies before. I like their sound.
3
Jan 20 2023
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Songs Of Love And Hate
Leonard Cohen
I preferred You Want It Darker, but this was still excellent. I'd never heard any of the songs before; Joan of Arc and Avalanche were probably my favourites.
4
Jan 23 2023
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Rubber Soul
Beatles
One of the good albums.
4
Jan 24 2023
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The Age Of The Understatement
The Last Shadow Puppets
A few interesting sounds, but I found most of this unremarkable. Less than the sum of its parts.
3
Jan 25 2023
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Slipknot
Slipknot
I enjoyed parts of this more than I'd care to admit.
3
Jan 26 2023
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Microshift
Hookworms
Can appreciate the sounds, just not for me.
2
Jan 27 2023
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Tommy
The Who
Very strong outing by The Who. Not sure about some of the longer songs, but the majority of it was good enough.
3
Jan 30 2023
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Seventeen Seconds
The Cure
This is a better album than Disintegration, though without any big tunes. Everything was pleasantly listenable, pleasantly forgettable.
3
Jan 31 2023
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At San Quentin
Johnny Cash
Big fan of Johnny Cash. I'd heard most of these songs in one way or another in different formats, and it made me remember the slightly more obscure songs - Starkville City Jail is great fun, and I don't listen to Wanted Man enough. Unlike many other artists, I think his live albums have an added edge, he's very comfortable in front of an audience, and prisoners, and that comes across in this album. His calm voice rings loudly through every song.
4
Feb 01 2023
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Off The Wall
Michael Jackson
I'm finding it hard to consider anything higher than a 2. Most of the songs on the album are filler, and I'm convinced Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough and Rock With You are too long. I really like She's Out Of My Life, but I think I've heard better covers of it. Bad boy bump seems inappropriate in this situation. Sorry MJ. He has better albums, in any case.
2
Feb 02 2023
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Signing Off
UB40
Quite funky and jazzy, better than I would have thought. Listenable.
4
Feb 03 2023
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Dire Straits
Dire Straits
It is okay. Sultans of Swing is fantastic, but the rest of the album never really got going. Pleasant enough. +1 for Sultans of Swing.
3
Feb 06 2023
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NEU! 75
Neu!
Unfortunately bland. Too much like background music.
2
Feb 07 2023
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Never Mind The Bollocks, Here’s The Sex Pistols
Sex Pistols
Still pretty good. Much more listenable than I would have imagined. Couple of songs I'd never heard that are memorable enough, I liked New York.
4
Feb 08 2023
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Bryter Layter
Nick Drake
From the first couple of songs, I thought I was going to really enjoy it, but the album slowly petered out. I found myself unable to remember any of it. A few too many instrumentals. On paper, this was my kind of thing, but I've read he has two better albums, likely also in this list, so I'll wait for those.
3
Feb 09 2023
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Selling England By The Pound
Genesis
I found this album an extreme example of prog/psychedelic rock. Firth of Fifth is a masterpiece, but I hated Dancing with the Moonlight Knight. I Know What I Like (In Your Wardrobe) is fantastically odd. There's no clear story running through the album, and often seemingly within the longer songs themselves. Overall I liked it, it provoked a strong reaction from me.
4
Feb 10 2023
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Chocolate Starfish And The Hot Dog Flavored Water
Limp Bizkit
Rather bracing
2
Feb 13 2023
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Murder Ballads
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
Very odd album. I didn't like it overall, but you cannot fault the commitment to a naff concept. Much of it was dreary and monotonous, however I didn't mind Where the Wild Roses Grow - nice to break things up. Red Right Hand is a good song, so I might be tempted to go and listen to some of his other work with the Bad Seeds, but I do feel there's no stylistic range.
2
Feb 14 2023
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Violator
Depeche Mode
The hits are great, as are a few of the album tracks. Hypnotic.
4
Feb 15 2023
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Crosby, Stills & Nash
Crosby, Stills & Nash
I have their greatest hits for my car, so I am partial. Judy Blue Eyes is a great start to an album, loads going on, iconic sounds. Jangly folky rock, smooth harmonies, thoughtful lyrics (for the most part), what more could you ask for?
A second peak for the album is Lady of the Island, Helplessly Hoping and Long Time Gone. Helplessly Hoping in particular is a top 10 song for me - melancholy, introspective, but powerful.
Exactly my kind of music. I just like the era and this kind of sound. I have to say that this is not my favourite album of theirs, I prefer Deja Vu (with Neil Young) as I think it is stronger as an overall product, but this one is a 5 nonetheless.
5
Feb 16 2023
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Idlewild
Everything But The Girl
I thought the cover of I Don't Want to Talk About It was the best song on the album. Everything sounded near exactly the same, I barely noticed where one track stopped and the next started. Saying that, it was inoffensive easy background listening.
2
Feb 17 2023
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Queen II
Queen
I'm not a Queen fan - never have been. This album is so different from their later work - in particular the guitar is excellent, but it falls short of other prog rock artists and albums of the same era. Too many non-descript songs. Despite "finding" their sound over the next few years, I would probably still prefer their earlier work.
2
Feb 20 2023
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Lost In The Dream
The War On Drugs
Utterly inoffensive, some nice sounds, but won't be going back.
3
Feb 21 2023
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Amnesiac
Radiohead
Alright
3
Feb 22 2023
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Fresh Fruit for Rotting Vegetables
Dead Kennedys
Feels kind of dated, not the most interesting thing to listen to.
2
Feb 23 2023
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Stand!
Sly & The Family Stone
Most songs sounded the same, and I was a bit disappointed.
2
Feb 24 2023
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Gorillaz
Gorillaz
Apart from Clint Eastwood, this seems like one long jam session. Not a lot of thought into the album, lots of bells and whistles, very little enjoyment.
1
Feb 27 2023
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In Utero
Nirvana
Quite enjoyed it, rather cohesive.
4
Feb 28 2023
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Vespertine
Björk
I found this a bit of a weird one. Totally forgettable noise, except that I didn't mind it on in the background. I can't remember anything about it, despite fully listening, but I'm glad I've heard at least one Björk album. Wouldn't listen again, but +1 for a background bonus.
2
Mar 01 2023
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Smash
The Offspring
I didn't listen to this type of music when young, so it doesn't resonate with me from a nostalgia perspective, nor now from an enjoyment perspective. I see some merits, but not enough for a higher score.
2
Mar 02 2023
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Rings Around The World
Super Furry Animals
Nothing stood out, but I didn't mind it and would listen again.
3
Mar 03 2023
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Metallica
Metallica
Very much enjoyed that. Had to knock a star off as many of the songs sound the same, especially in the back part of the album. I didn't notice where one ended and another began. Despite this, I thought that the second half of the album was on the whole stronger than the first. Based on the public reviews, I think I need to refine myself.
4
Mar 06 2023
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Francis Albert Sinatra & Antonio Carlos Jobim
Frank Sinatra
Not my favourite, a lot of the songs are forgettable and meander. It also sounds like Frank isn't really putting in a lot of effort.
3
Mar 07 2023
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Live!
Fela Kuti
Not my kind of thing. Cool that Ginger Baker makes an appearance a few times, and the wikipedia article about the album is pretty good, but I just didn't enjoy it.
2
Mar 08 2023
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Your Arsenal
Morrissey
Preferred his work with The Smiths.
2
Mar 09 2023
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Beach Samba
Astrud Gilberto
What an odd album. First few tracks were lovely cocktail lounge background music, very 60's, and then some nonsense with a circus.
2
Mar 10 2023
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Sound Affects
The Jam
I quite liked it. The problem is that nothing stood out. The whole album played through, and I didn't really notice anything. I didn't find it irritating, nor did I find it overwhelmingly good. But the fact I didn't turn it off is enough for a 3 star.
3
Mar 13 2023
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Back To Black
Amy Winehouse
I'd forgotten that she came from more of a jazz background, which is evident on the album tracks. It is a strong album. I can't listen to Rehab, but You Know I'm No Good and Back to Black make up for it. Can't believe this was 17 years ago, still sounds fresh. Only 4 stars, not sure about the album tracks, they are quite bland compared to the emotion and sadness on show elsewhere. RIP - I do wish she'd taken Rehab with her.
4
Mar 14 2023
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Imagine
John Lennon
I skipped Imagine, but had forgotten that Oh My Love is on this album. My favourite song of John's solo work. I listened to the album with an open mind, and parts I really liked (Oh Yoko! has whimsy) and other parts I was on the fence - a worse Beatles sound. At least the Solo stuff from George and Paul has its own identity away from their group work. I'd give this a 3.5 if I could (based on Oh My Love, Oh Yoko!, and Jealous Guy), but no half scores, so I'll award the +0.5 bad boy bump.
4
Mar 15 2023
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Midnight Ride
Paul Revere & The Raiders
I really enjoyed this - it was a bit bland and not memorable, but that was the charm. I fell asleep twice listening to it.
4
Mar 16 2023
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Drunk
Thundercat
I didn't mind this at all. Some interesting ideas and concepts, not always well executed. Lyrics are insane. Not sure I'd listen again, but I am pleased I did.
3
Mar 17 2023
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Punishing Kiss
Ute Lemper
I've found this one hard to rate. It is a bit daft, and I don't like Ute's voice. There are glimmers of good stuff - I have a lot of time for the type of lyrical, story-telling songs but a lot of the lyrics are on the poor side, a bit on-the-nose. Considering the talent on the album (Divine Comedy!) I am disappointed. I am reviewing this late, and have to say I concur with the group. Would have given a 1.5 (rounded to a 2) if I hadn't read everyone else's reviews, but I did and I largely agree. 1.4.
1
Mar 20 2023
View Album
High Violet
The National
Thoroughly enjoyed it, has the misty quality of indie rock that I like. Never heard anything by The National before, and I feel like I've missed out. Highlights were Runaway, Anyone's Ghost, and Terrible Love. Was on a rail replacement bus in Poland on Friday listening to it, providing the perfect soundtrack to a weird experience.
5
Mar 21 2023
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Heaven Or Las Vegas
Cocteau Twins
A bit of a low for the list. Forgettable and generic, and difficult to understand.
1
Mar 22 2023
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Sound of Silver
LCD Soundsystem
I'm on the fence with this. I can hear the musicianship in places, but why is every song incredibly long? Or at least, the repetitive nature lends itself to making most songs feel like a drag. I'd give it maybe 1 more star if it was shorter. Although, maybe not, it really isn't my kind of thing. North American Scum is of course pretty great, I know it from Top Spin 4, the tennis game. No big "Love" from me for this one.
3
Mar 23 2023
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Tubular Bells
Mike Oldfield
Good stuff, very impressive considering he was 19 or so when he did these. Enjoyed the Sailor's Hornpipe at the end of Part II, bit of a laugh.
4
Mar 24 2023
View Album
Millions Now Living Will Never Die
Tortoise
Some of the transitions within songs are quite jarring. I enjoyed this more than I thought I would, cannot out my finger on why. I think the variety helps. It doesn't really sound like a jam session either, more like the band are showing each other their skills. Odd samples. I don't know what to think.
3
Mar 27 2023
View Album
Disraeli Gears
Cream
Absolutely banging album. My favourite Cream song is White Room, on their next album, but I think this album is better overall, with Strange Brew, Sunshine of Your Love, and Tales of Brave Ulysses being obvious highlights.
What makes this album stand out for me is that it knows what it wants to achieve and achieves it. Incredibly competent psychedelic rock, laser-focussed songwriting, and fun melodies. It naturally gets the +1 bad boy boost for Clapton's controversial comments, but would have given it 5 stars anyway.
5
Mar 28 2023
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Fever To Tell
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
I really didn't enjoy it, incredibly irritating.
1
Mar 29 2023
View Album
The Blueprint
JAY Z
I have a lot of time for Jay-Z. The Blueprint 3 was really good, and I saw him perform it live at a festival in Scotland in 2010. His brand of commercial rap/hip-hop was huge when I was in Uni, him and Kanye West really were at the top of their game. Can't say I kept up with the genre to now though. I remember listening to some of his other albums, American Gangster and The Black Album but didn't manage to make my way back here. Quite liked the original Blueprint, it is rather bombastic. The lyrics manage to ring true despite him being incredibly rich when recording this, and even more so now. Love the sampling on Takeover and Heart of the City. Just an all round solid album.
4
Mar 30 2023
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Skylarking
XTC
This was fine for me as background music. Can't really say much more.
2
Mar 31 2023
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Daydream Nation
Sonic Youth
I found it a little noisy. Can definitely hear the influence on other bands though.
2
Apr 03 2023
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Highway to Hell
AC/DC
I think I prefer Back in Black.
3
Apr 04 2023
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The Rise & Fall
Madness
Our House is good, nostalgic, but I couldn't get behind the rest of the album. Not a massive Suggs fan.
2
Apr 05 2023
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Eternally Yours
The Saints
Pretty reasonable for background listening but nothing jumped out.
3
Apr 06 2023
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Exile On Main Street
The Rolling Stones
Have to say I skipped a lot of the album. Not a big Stones fan.
2
Apr 07 2023
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Rising Above Bedlam
Jah Wobble's Invaders Of The Heart
What on earth was all that about then? Not particularly interesting or enjoyable, as hard as I tried to listen.
1
Apr 10 2023
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Doggystyle
Snoop Dogg
Couldn't get behind this at all.
2
Apr 11 2023
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21
Adele
Hard to write a review - very commercial pop with a powerful voice behind it. Can't really say much more.
2
Apr 12 2023
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Grievous Angel
Gram Parsons
Rather charming. Quite nice background music. Nothing does jump out at you to be fair, so can't go higher than 3 stars.
3
Apr 13 2023
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I Against I
Bad Brains
Fun in the background but rather forgettable.
2
Apr 14 2023
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Brothers
The Black Keys
Far too dramatic. It all sounds like it comes from adverts, no cohesion. Just not for me.
2
Apr 17 2023
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Enter The Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)
Wu-Tang Clan
Flew by, but I can't remember any of it.
3
Apr 18 2023
View Album
Veckatimest
Grizzly Bear
A tricky one for me as I definitely enjoyed it, but can't really remember much about it. Good as background music, I like the sound of the music more than the guy's voice. One of those where, on balance, I'd rather have it on, than silence.
I'd give 3.5 stars if possible, but I think, based on the strength of Two Weeks, I'll knock it up to 4, rather than down.
4
Apr 19 2023
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Go Girl Crazy
The Dictators
I didn't really like it, a bit too shouty and unfocussed. Really unnecessary Sonny and Cher cover too.
2
Apr 20 2023
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Heavy Weather
Weather Report
I thought this was quite decent - very much, café-jazz but of a better level. I didn't want to turn it off, in any case.
3
Apr 21 2023
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The Velvet Underground & Nico
The Velvet Underground
Can hear the influence on loads of other music, and the lyrics are generally excellent throughout. Still couldn't get into it and wouldn't return though.
3
Apr 24 2023
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Moving Pictures
Rush
Prog Rock isn't really my thing, but I can appreciate that it is a pretty solid album.
3
Apr 25 2023
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2112
Rush
I found this a much more interesting album than the previous one. Still not really my thing, but I greatly enjoyed the title track.
3
Apr 26 2023
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To Pimp A Butterfly
Kendrick Lamar
I found the previous album, Good Kid Mad City, incredibly irritating so I was very apprehensive about this one - however I thought it was pretty good. Thundercat being on the album helped - I liked the creativity. Definitely found it significantly less irritating than I expected.
3
Apr 27 2023
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Entertainment
Gang Of Four
The album flew by. A 3.5 for me. On repeated listens, maybe towards a 4, but I've given more for less. At Home He's a Tourist probably my favourite.
4
Apr 28 2023
View Album
Remedy
Basement Jaxx
I quite enjoyed this, I think I was in the mood. Powered through some work with it on in the background. Loads of memories from University again, used it as "white noise" when writing reports and theses. Red Alert still pretty great.
4
May 01 2023
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Birth Of The Cool
Miles Davis
I always find it tricky to review jazz - improvisation plays an important role, and so jazz albums don't really do the music justice. This album was pretty fine, but I would say that I liked it - I was on a Thelonious Monk album before I knew it, and I preferred that. Made me stop and check the track name. Thelonious made me stop and check the track name.
3
May 02 2023
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Raising Hell
Run-D.M.C.
Too shouty. Very interesting reading about them, and their history and the impact that this album and in particular Walk This Way had though.
2
May 03 2023
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Street Signs
Ozomatli
Could only listen to the first two tracks. Found it fine, but didn't fancy hunting for the rest.
2
May 04 2023
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Follow The Leader
Korn
Not a good week. Got through the first few tracks, and couldn't listen to any more as I'd torn my ears off my head.
1
May 05 2023
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Devil Without A Cause
Kid Rock
Oh dear oh dear.
1
May 08 2023
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Machine Head
Deep Purple
Second half of the album was really bombastic.
4
May 09 2023
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The Last Broadcast
Doves
I never listened to Doves when they were popular, but I recognise loads of songs on the album. Some dross, but There Goes The Fear, NY, and Friday's Dust were highlights.
4
May 10 2023
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Nilsson Schmilsson
Harry Nilsson
Less engaging as a whole than I thought it would be.
3
May 11 2023
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Electric Prunes
The Electric Prunes
I liked, "I Had Too Much To Dream". A few others were pleasant enough.
3
May 12 2023
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Greetings From L.A.
Tim Buckley
I quite enjoyed this one. Turns out I wasn't really listening to the lyrics, he's a bit of a filthy animal. Lovely melodies and vocals.
4
May 15 2023
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Eagles
Eagles
I have a "Best of" album of the Eagles in the car. Contains fewer songs from this album than I expected - Take It Easy and Witchy Woman are classics, and I really liked Peaceful Easy Feeling. Hotel California is a 6 star album, so looking forward to that coming on and providing a full "analysis" of each song.
4
May 16 2023
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Hard Again
Muddy Waters
Great version of Mannish Boy, and the rest of the album flew by.
4
May 17 2023
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Tapestry
Carole King
Well then, what an album. I had heard of it, and when listening knew a lot of the songs on it too. Lovely simple music, letting her voice be the focus. It's Too Late, Home Again, Where You Lead... All so pleasant and listenable. Thanks Carole.
5
May 18 2023
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Tidal
Fiona Apple
Not my cup of tea.
1
May 19 2023
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Murmur
R.E.M.
It's so bland. I have a lot of time for REM, Out of Time is a great album. I personally really like the Reveal album, and the single "The Great Beyond" from the Kaufman movie - which is brilliant. But this one, Murmur, was so, so bland, it all merged into one and I got rather bored. I appreciate the album's place in indie rock development, hence two stars.
2
May 22 2023
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Abbey Road
Beatles
Not a massive Beatles fan. Come Together is maybe my favourite song of theirs, and I always like Octopus's Garden. Apart from Something, and, Here Comes the Sun, I didn't find much else that stood out, or that I enjoyed.
4
May 23 2023
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Station To Station
David Bowie
I really enjoyed Wild is the Wind, and TCV15 was pretty good, but I can't with good conscience give it more than 3 stars, when I gave Abbey Road 4.
3
May 24 2023
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Highly Evolved
The Vines
It's not quite my kind of music but I think it also hasn't aged well. A little bit too forgettable.
2
May 25 2023
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Snivilisation
Orbital
Great background music.
3
May 26 2023
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Blackstar
David Bowie
I found this difficult to pin down - I'm not a Bowie fan, so I didn't know what to expect. I've definitely heard the album before, but in the background so I gave this a proper listen. One one hand, indulgent, but on the other, lyrically startling. Not maudlin, which was nice. Title track is cracking.
4
May 29 2023
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A Girl Called Dusty
Dusty Springfield
So I know some Dusty Springfield songs, from here and there, but never listened to a full album. I thoroughly enjoyed it - lots of character, strongly reminiscent of the era. Simple instrumentation allowing her voice to drive the songs. You Don't Owe Me has a great sinister vibe. Twenty-Four Hours From Tulsa strongly reminds me of There's Always Something There To Remind Me. Very few fillers on the album. I had no idea she was English either. A solid 4.5, but I think I've been miserly recently, so I'll round up.
5
May 30 2023
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Songs From The Big Chair
Tears For Fears
I have a lot of time for 80s New Wave. The hits are the hits, not a lot more to say. Liked the sound overall, wasn't mad keen on some of the album tracks. It feels like a 3 - struggling to justify why, but it's not quite a 4. I did add Shout and Everybody Wants to Rule the World to my listening rotation though. On balance, there are stronger records of this ilk.
3
May 31 2023
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Gunfighter Ballads And Trail Songs
Marty Robbins
What a revelation! Love the sound, the guy's voice, all that stuff. Really felt like a gunslinger in the Wild West listening to that. Big Iron, Cool Water, The Master's Call, El Paso, and Saddle Tramp were my favourites. My favourite album in a long while.
5
Jun 01 2023
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Kings Of The Wild Frontier
Adam & The Ants
Normally all for New Wave, as noted for Tears for Fears, but I couldn't really get into this. Liked the general sound, just found it a bit forgettable and inferior to other albums of the same style and at the same time. Wouldn't listen again.
2
Jun 02 2023
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Play
Moby
Great stuff, thanks Moby. Naturally recognised loads of the songs.
4
Jun 05 2023
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Ill Communication
Beastie Boys
More enjoyable than the previous Beastie Boys album - considerably less shouty. However, the first half, the shouty half, was definitely more impactful than the second. I was dreading this, and putting off listening, but it was better than I expected - which is great. I am surprised, pleasantly surprised.
3
Jun 06 2023
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Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness
The Smashing Pumpkins
I mean it isn't bad, but it kind of merges into one. Loads of angst, I can see why Jack is keen. Zero was good. +1 for Jack.
4
Jun 07 2023
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Achtung Baby
U2
As expected, found this a hard listen. So dreary, mopey, lame.
1
Jun 08 2023
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Introducing The Hardline According To Terence Trent D'Arby
Terence Trent D'Arby
I didn't think was as bad as the other reviews suggested. Some heavy repetition within songs themselves, which often drag on, but the range of styles and themes, whilst remaining cohesive as an album, is impressive. Quite pleasant as background music (apart from As Yet Untitled, which is a bit harsh, like a drill).
3
Jun 09 2023
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Don't Come Home A Drinkin' (With Lovin' On Your Mind)
Loretta Lynn
I know what I like, and I won't make any apologies for it.
4
Jun 12 2023
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The Yes Album
Yes
I preferred Fragile. This album is more meandering and a bit less interesting. And I was a bit confused at times too, the Deluxe version having single versions of a few of the tracks. Pretty crazy how different this album is to Fragile, maybe the influence of Rick Wakeman. I was going to give it three stars, but I've gone back and listened to the single versions of Your Move, Starship Trooper, and The Clap, so pushed me over to 4, but only just. Would still listen to Roundabout over anything on this album though.
3
Jun 13 2023
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Live And Dangerous
Thin Lizzy
Pleasantly surprised. Very listenable, and very few songs feel like throwaways. I did not like Are You Ready? but the vast majority were overall enjoyable.
4
Jun 14 2023
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Let's Get Killed
David Holmes
Barely listenable. It sounds incredibly amateur and scattered. Too many ideas, and very poor execution. A real trial to listen to, I have to admit I listened to the first minute or so of each song before giving my opinion. Dismal.
1
Jun 15 2023
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All Hail the Queen
Queen Latifah
Not sure about this. I really only disliked Mama Gave Birth to the Soul Children, mainly because of the high-pitched voice. The better songs, Latifah's Law, Princess of the Possee, Ladies First, were pretty good - but I'm not going back.
3
Jun 16 2023
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Rocks
Aerosmith
The lyrics are a bit silly and earnest, but it really isn't as bad as I was fearing. Quite funky. Rats in the Cellar was probably my favourite. Would I go back? No.
3
Jun 19 2023
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The Black Saint And The Sinner Lady
Charles Mingus
I greatly enjoyed the artistic expression and variation, and general lack of theme and repetition throughout. Track 3 - Group Dancers, and the first 5-6 minutes of Track 4 (Mode D - Trio and Group Dancers) were my favourites. I don't think I'll return, as it isn't my thing, but I'm very glad to have listened. Avante-garde.
4
Jun 20 2023
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Definitely Maybe
Oasis
It's alright isn't it really. Oasis passed me by a bit, I was a little too young, but I can imagine if I was listening I'd be hyped for where they would go next. Supersonic is pretty good, and I'd say the closest to the hit parade of (What's the Story) Morning Glory.
4
Jun 21 2023
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Permission to Land
The Darkness
Only really knew "I Believe in a Thing Called Love", so was expecting many more silly tracks like that - and was pleasantly surprised. I went back and re-listened to ensure my opinion was accurate - they have a sound that isn't typical of the time, and stands up pretty well now. Light metal/pop. "Love is Only a Feeling" is probably my favourite. I don't have any nostalgia for it, so just a 4 stars.
4
Jun 22 2023
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São Paulo Confessions
Suba
Antropofagus is a bit of a laugh. A hard listen.
1
Jun 23 2023
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Peace Sells...But Who's Buying
Megadeth
Didn't do a lot for me but I didn't hate it. I found it vastly inferior to Master of Puppets, which I think is a similar genre. Megadeath's lyrics here are a bit daft.
2
Jun 26 2023
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Hot Buttered Soul
Isaac Hayes
Bit of a strange album, lots going on and not all of it I enjoyed. His version of Walk on By is great, if a little long and meandering.
2
Jun 27 2023
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The Boatman's Call
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
Lovely stuff. Into My Arms is great. There are so many wonderfully melancholy and depressing songs on the album. It seems to take its time with everything, never rushed, which adds to the mournful sound. His voice sounds great too, really smooth and soaring. I didn't like Green Eyes, and there were one or two other boring misfires, so not a 5, but a solid 4.
4
Jun 28 2023
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This Nation’s Saving Grace
The Fall
Mark E. Smith is from Prestwich, where I'm from. Despite this, I didn't really know much about him or the Fall. I'd heard many of the songs on this album in various pubs round Prestwich, and unknowingly did a memorial tour a while ago. Some bewildering pubs, but then you listen to the album and it all makes sense.
Greatly enjoyed the majority of the album. I expected more of a difficult listen as I'm not really sure what post-punk is. This must be quite an easy entry into this kind of music. Lyrics are fun and poetic, and at times baffling, and I don't mind the production at all. Paintwork and Spoilt Victorian Child were my favourites.
4
Jun 29 2023
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Survivor
Destiny's Child
Front-loaded. The rest are R&B/pop nonsense.
2
Jun 30 2023
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Hypocrisy Is The Greatest Luxury
The Disposable Heroes Of Hiphoprisy
A rather refreshing album. The impact of some of the harder-hitting political tracks is lost a bit on a second listen, but this was a pleasant surprise. Music and Politics, and The Winter of the Long Hot Summer were my favourites. Better than a 3, but not quite a 4 and rounding up is too generous.
3
Jul 03 2023
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Debut
Björk
It was certainly interesting, but too eclectic for me to enjoy properly.
2
Jul 04 2023
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Californication
Red Hot Chili Peppers
One of my car CDs. Nothing beats shouting out the words as you're speeding down the motorway. Incredibly strong start, Around the World, Scar Tissue, Otherside, Californication, and Easily are fantastic, and I have great memories of listening to them when younger to bolster the car memories. Most recently, I'd just landed from Singapore via Helsinki, it was 10pm, I was sleep deprived and confused, and was frankly worried about driving the 1 hour 30 back to my home. Popped this on, and tore up the road. No crashes.
If I'm being really critical, the second half of the album is a bit weak (I don't like Porcelain, I Like Dirt or Emit Remmus). There are passable songs on in between that depending on my mood I'll skip, but Road Trippin' is a great alternative way to end.
I like the progression from proper funk (back with Blood Sugar Sex Magik) to the funk-inspired rock of this album.
5
Jul 05 2023
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Straight Outta Compton
N.W.A.
Listened to this whilst cycling from my house into the centre, and felt very pumped up afterwards. I enjoy the flow and the lyrics, and the sampling and beats hit pretty hard. I am trying to justify giving it 4 stars and not 3, but mainly because I can't remember any of it immediately afterwards and won't listen again, 3 it is.
3
Jul 06 2023
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Fred Neil
Fred Neil
I listened to this on the way back from the centre, as a counterpoint to the NWA album, and the journey flew by. He has a melodic voice, but it was a very forgettable album. Thanks Fred.
3
Jul 07 2023
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Woodface
Crowded House
Another one of my car CDs. Definitely stronger first half than second half. Maybe I only listen to the first half - I didn't recognise anything after Fame Is. Either way, because of the strength of the first half of the album (Chocolate Cake all the way to There Goes God) - solid 5 stars.
5
Jul 10 2023
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Africa Brasil
Jorge Ben Jor
Incredibly funky. I thought this would be more like a lot of the generic World music included on this list, but there are more rhythms, beats, and instruments than you could shake a stick at. Makes you want o dance, and puts you in a great mood.
4
Jul 11 2023
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The Köln Concert
Keith Jarrett
Pleasantly enjoyable and never grating. Relaxing. Nearly fell asleep with it. Smooth, melodious. As a wise soothsayer one said, "if could choose any instrument to be a master of, it would be the piano."
3
Jul 12 2023
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Tuesday Night Music Club
Sheryl Crow
All I Wanna Do is alright as a song, but I struggled massively with this album. I think mainly as I hated the first song, incredibly repetitive, which set me up very badly for the rest of the album. I wanted to like this based on enjoying If It Makes You Happy from a different album, but I have to say I really, really disliked this.
1
Jul 13 2023
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Chicago Transit Authority
Chicago
Chicago's Greatest Hits is another one of my car CDs. I would give that 5 stars, but am happy to give this a solid 4. There are about 3-4 tracks that are excellent (I'm a Man, Questions 67 and 68, Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is off the top of my head) but the screechy guitar song ruins it a bit. Great band.
4
Jul 14 2023
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Slanted And Enchanted
Pavement
I found this really boring and bland. Totally forgettable.
2
Jul 17 2023
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Born In The U.S.A.
Bruce Springsteen
This is my favourite Bruce album. I have his Greatest Hits in the car, which I significantly prefer due to The River containing some excellent songs (one of my top 10 songs ever is The River), but Born In The USA contains so many hits. I think that's it, the album is pretty much banger after banger. Outside of the more well-known ones, I really like Cover Me and My Hometown.
I'd really like to see Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band live. Twice he's played close to where I was living, and twice I was unable to go. So disappointing.
5
Jul 18 2023
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The Specials
The Specials
I have to agree with the group. Susprisingly good. My favourites were Dawning of a New Era, Little Bitch, and Stupid Marriage. Quite funky and relaxing.
4
Jul 19 2023
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Vanishing Point
Primal Scream
I didn't really enjoy it - genuinely didn't realise it was on. Hesitant between a 1 and a 2, but I can't say I hated it. It just didn't stand out.
2
Jul 20 2023
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Group Sex
Circle Jerks
I'll preface with a hearty, "not my thing". I found the lyrics funny, and the songs mercifully short. I would not choose to listen again, but it didn't grate or overstay its welcome.
2
Jul 21 2023
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The Lexicon Of Love
ABC
I found this one very hard to review. So much of it I enjoyed, but I did read other reviews, and understand the criticism. Poison Arrow and The Look of Love are the best songs, but I liked Valentine's Day, and Show Me.
Much of the difficulty for me lies in placing it against other albums I enjoyed to the same extent. Here, I liked the vibe and atmosphere created, and the variation within the album was great, whilst still retaining cohesion and being surprising.
Solid 4 from me - I've given worse albums the same or better scores.
4
Jul 24 2023
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Dirt
Alice In Chains
Solid 3 stars for me - Them Bones is a classic, and the rest of the album listenable.
3
Jul 25 2023
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The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars
David Bowie
I preferred Blackstar as an album overall - I do think it is a stronger concept (don't really get Ziggy Stardust). This album has some real belters, including Starman, Ziggy Stardust, and Suffragette City. Unfortunately nothing else really stood out. Despite 4 albums, I'm still solidly on the fence with Bowie.
3
Jul 26 2023
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Sea Change
Beck
The album was wonderfully dreary and miserable, and put me on a downer. There are a few nice highlights (The Golden Age). I think it was too long, nearly all the songs outstay their welcome and cross over into irritating. I do think he's very good, I just think someone needed to step in and tell him to stop being so smug about his melancholy, and to tighten up the album.
2
Jul 27 2023
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Paranoid
Black Sabbath
Planet Caravan and Paranoid are great. I initially was hesitant to listen to this album, however it was a very fun ride. Never boring, sometimes daft, but quite well-made with a great overall sound.
4
Jul 28 2023
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Astral Weeks
Van Morrison
Many of the songs outstay their welcome, but it does contain a couple of interesting, melancholy and melodic tracks. The Way Young Lovers Do is a bit more uptempo, and consequently a bit more memorable. Madam George is too long.
3
Jul 31 2023
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Natty Dread
Bob Marley & The Wailers
On balance I preferred the prior Bob Marley album, but this one is pretty great. Easy to listen to in the background, but just when you find yourself tuning out you'll hear something surprising. First half of the album better than the second half.
4
Aug 01 2023
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Talking Heads 77
Talking Heads
I think my music taste must have changed. I had heard this album before, some years ago, but when listening now I found it not nearly as exciting or interesting as I thought I was. A little disappointed.
New Feeling and Love -> Building on Fire were irritating, The Book I Read meandering, Don't Worry About the Government lame. I did like Love Comes to Town, and Happy Day though.
+1 star boost for Psycho Killer though, as it should be.
4
Aug 02 2023
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Isn't Anything
My Bloody Valentine
Absolutely fine, preferred the tracks with the majority male vocals, can't remember anything else about it. I thought they were an emo/screamo band, so I was surprised listening to this not-far-removed lift music.
3
Aug 03 2023
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OK Computer
Radiohead
Not generally for me this. No Surprises is pretty good, but I don't really care for the rest of it. Exit Music (For a Film) sounds a lot like Muse.
2
Aug 04 2023
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Back In Black
AC/DC
You Shook Me All Night Long, and Let Me Put My Love Into You are my favourites from the album. It doesn't really get exciting though. Not bland, just never really takes off. I bet they are great fun to see live.
Angus Young has a house in a small village close to me in the Netherlands. Never seen him though. -1 star.
3
Aug 07 2023
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Scissor Sisters
Scissor Sisters
Can't say I found this overly fun to listen to. It is a bit droney and dreary for me. The lyrics are "on the nose" too. Laura and Take Your Mama are pop hits, but the rest is largely forgettable. I'm not even sure it was a breath of fresh air at the time - pop was pretty big. I don't think I was the target audience and I distinctly remember avoiding Scissor Sisters at the time. Just not my cup of tea.
2
Aug 08 2023
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The Wildest!
Louis Prima
Quite the exciting album. Body and Soul and The Lip were really enthralling. This is an album made by a musician and band that are having an absolutely fantastic time. Louis Prima has a melodic, fun voice, cannot believe he was Italian-American. Incredibly rarely outstays its welcome. I can't quite bring myself to give it a 5 though.
4
Aug 09 2023
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Sign 'O' The Times
Prince
Not at all what I was expecting given the fanfare. Kiss, Purple Rain, Raspberry Beret, and When Doves Cry are absolute classics. Unfortunately none of them are on this album. Severely underwhelming. Really scattered. The drums do really stand out on the mixing of many of the tracks - which is fine as they are generally excellent. I was thinking about 1.5, rounding down because I was annoyed, but the drums are great.
2
Aug 10 2023
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Pieces Of The Sky
Emmylou Harris
The only country music I actively listen to is probably Dolly Parton, or some very old 1950s or 1960s stuff mainly for the atmosphere. I can't get behind this. It isn't terrible, it is rather bland. She does have a lovely voice, but quite frequently I feel that country music never gets going.
2
Aug 11 2023
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american dream
LCD Soundsystem
Enjoyed most of the beats. "i used to" was my favourite song. I cannot get away from finding some of it a bit daft though. Music for music's sake, I didn't get the point of the album.
3
Aug 14 2023
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Jagged Little Pill
Alanis Morissette
You Oughta Know, Forgiven, and Ironic are great. Definitely one of the best singer-songwriter albums. My parents had this, was often on in the background when they were doing the washing-up. Hints of nostalgia, but a genuinely good album.
4
Aug 15 2023
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The Joshua Tree
U2
I'm hovering between a 2 and a 3. I genuinely believe the album was ahead of its time (1987, sounds like mid-90s) however the songs don't half drag on and merge into each other. Could also be said that U2 haven't evolved since this album.
With or Without You is of course pretty great, very commercial. The rest of the album is kind of meh, which causes my hesitation and doubt. I feel like I might regret a 2, so a 3 it is.
3
Aug 16 2023
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Roger the Engineer
The Yardbirds
Second half of the album really kicks off - plenty to like. The instrumental breaks and jamming are good fun and help keep the album interesting. Lots of tight riffs and memorable lyrics. I'd heard a fair amount of these tracks before but couldn't tell you who did them. Now I can. Farewell, Jeff's Boogie, He's Always There, and What Do You Want stood out the most for me. Another 4.5, but again I'll be kind. Definitely returning to this.
5
Aug 17 2023
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Sweet Baby James
James Taylor
I'm a medium James Taylor fan - I have his JT album on LP (5 stars) and very vaguely know this one. A very easy listen, light instrumentation and simple melodies. I'm obsessed by songs not lasting too long, and the album is nice and snappy. I also enjoy when an album really encapsulates an era or genre, which this does. Sweet Baby James, Fire and Rain, and Blossom are my favourites, but I could (and have) re-listened to the album a couple of times. Country Road also stands out. 4.5 for me.
5
Aug 18 2023
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Hypnotised
The Undertones
Wasn't really for me this. It took me a while to get through, didn't find it very interesting. On the one hand, that the songs were in general a bit daft I liked, but on the other, it didn't offer anything musically. My favourite song was the cover of Under The Boardwalk. Just a really meh listen.
2
Aug 21 2023
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Blonde On Blonde
Bob Dylan
My dad is a big Bob Dylan fan. This one rings a bell from growing up. Didn't mind it at all, flew by. "Stuck Inside..." was the standout for me, but I also greatly enjoyed "Visions of Johanna". I have to say I prefer his folksy politics stuff, but this album is incredibly solid.
4
Aug 22 2023
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Rumours
Fleetwood Mac
I believe that the internal difficulties Fleetwood Mac were having throughout the recording of this album made it what it is. Musicianship without compromise - but what do I know?
The album starts off with the weakest track, Second Hand News isn't anything to write home about. Then there are 7 consecutive absolute bangers.
Dreams: a jazzy classic, beautifully sung and great lyrics. Pensive, but optimistic, and I love the instrumentation.
Never Going Back Again: minimalistic, but then why overcomplicate the wonderful melody Lindsay Buckingham created. Simple.
Don't Stop: Great fun. Bit mired now from use in political campaigns, however I enjoy the back and forth with the singing.
Go Your Own Way: Can't say much more than what others already have. Anthemic.
Songbird: A bit of a reflective pause before the rest of the album - beautiful.
The Chain: Another club classic. Reading about how the track was made is pretty fascinating. The track hits from the very start - the guitar over the simple beat highlights the lyrics but also has a sense of urgency, and the quick cymbal stop following the chorus is overlooked. Great fun.
You Make Loving Fun: I really like Christine McVie's voice - here it is just enough to make the simple track do what it needs to do. Apparently Christine told her husband the song was about a dog, and not about an affair she was having. Sounds like a right laugh to have been in the band.
The album finishes with a couple of nice songs that would themselves stand out on any other album, but they are a bit also-ran here. I like I Don't Want To Know - love the harmonies between Stevie Nicks and Lindsay Buckingham. Oh Daddy is a bit boring, however Gold Dust Woman has entered my listening rotation; it sounds incredibly spooky and I greatly enjoy the structure.
What an album!
5
Aug 23 2023
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Twelve Dreams Of Dr. Sardonicus
Spirit
I had a re-listen to the album when I read the effulgent praise from the group. I don't quite understand where it is coming from. Was going to give it a 2, but I'm easily led, and I did like Nature's Way.
I've not been this conflicted for a while - middle ground time.
3
Aug 24 2023
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Street Life
The Crusaders
Always liked Street Life, there's a much shorter radio edit that I have on my favourite playlist. Otherwise, pretty good, listenable jazz.
3
Aug 25 2023
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Ramones
Ramones
Sounds very much like, "well, this is punk then". I like the mindless lyrics. Beyond what I expect for punk, the regular, repetitive choruses, and short length of the songs make it quite the punchy album. Blitzkrieg Bop is of course great, and the rest are good but I wouldn't actively choose to listen to this again. Something like a 3.4
3
Aug 28 2023
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Tres Hombres
ZZ Top
I always thought ZZ Top were a rock band, so I was pleasantly surprised by this bluesy stuff. Only pleasantly - it is a pretty solid, unexciting album. La Grange and Mastber of Sparks were my favourites, but nothing else stood out.
3
Aug 29 2023
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Five Leaves Left
Nick Drake
"Exactly the same as my thoughts on Bryter Layter. Just kind of gives up at some point. Preferred this less". These were my initial thoughts. I gave the album a second listen, and I had a much more enjoyable time. Intricate melodies, warm sound, and slow. Three Hours (can't go wrong with an extended instrumental break) and Saturday Sun were particularly memorable. A nice album.
4
Aug 30 2023
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Live Through This
Hole
A lot better than I expected, though still not my thing. The album is varied enough, grungey, and sounds very well constructed.
2
Aug 31 2023
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Groovin'
The Young Rascals
There was one song I didn't mind but it ended up going on for far too long and I grew to dislike it. A bit of a bore, won't be going back.
1
Sep 01 2023
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Songs From A Room
Leonard Cohen
Pretty reasonable although not my favourite album of his. I really enjoyed the production - simple and elegant, doesn't feel wasteful. Excellent songwriting as always.
4
Sep 04 2023
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The Low End Theory
A Tribe Called Quest
I didn't really have any expectations heading into this - I get them confused with Questlove and the Roots. However - what a great album. Clearly well thought through, with plenty of highlights (Show Business). I did go back and listen a second time but wouldn't a third, hence 4 stars. If any more A Tribe Called Quest albums come up, I can't wait.
4
Sep 05 2023
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The Band
The Band
On paper this is something I should enjoy. I didn't - lame, meandering, and aimless. The best track was where they turned themselves down mid-chorus. It isn't unlistenable, but I don't want to hear it again. I've given 2 to better records than this.
1
Sep 06 2023
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The Madcap Laughs
Syd Barrett
Really weird, messy, incoherent. I found this a hard listen but I am conflicted about the scoring. There's some stuff in it to like - Here I Go is easily the most "finished" song on the album. I enjoyed the songwriting. However Jesus Christ what a mess tracks like If It's in You are.
2
Sep 07 2023
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New Gold Dream (81/82/83/84)
Simple Minds
I expected a lot more. Very, very boring and forgettable.
1
Sep 08 2023
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Vento De Maio
Elis Regina
Quite jazzy, some exciting rhythms. Can't say I'd choose to listen again though, not quite as entertaining as I expected. 2.5 stars.
3
Sep 11 2023
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Remain In Light
Talking Heads
I know Once in a Lifetime. It is quite listenable, a 'jangly' sound. I think I prefer their 1977 album overall.
3
Sep 12 2023
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Ace of Spades
Motörhead
Ace of Spades is great, but the rest of the album (mercifully short) is a rehash of it. I did find the album OK to have on in the background though, which says something about how good Ace of Spades is. Some of the lyrics are a little odd to say the least. Lemmy seemed fascinating.
2
Sep 13 2023
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The Sun Rises In The East
Jeru The Damaja
I love the sound and production. Very light on the bass, focused on the drums. East Coast is generally more my thing, harder beats and lyrics. Favourite tracks: You Can't Stop The Prophet, D. Original, and I even enjoyed the intro. Didn't outstay its welcome.
4
Sep 14 2023
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Atomizer
Big Black
Abrasive - on the industrial martial side, like a hardcore Laibach but more upbeat, somehow. Not something you can have on in the background as many of the tracks certainly demand your attention.
The more I heard, the more I enjoyed. Big Money absolutely chomps along. Jordan, Minnesota feels paranoid. Can barely hear the lyrics overall (but I like the mixing) and when I do, they are odd. I like the sudden switch-ups of rhythm, tempo, and instruments.
Irritating for it not to be on Spotify - how we've come to rely on it. A solid 4 stars.
4
Sep 15 2023
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Os Mutantes
Os Mutantes
Veered between quite enjoyable and very irritating. We've had better Brazilian music.
2
Sep 18 2023
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Are You Experienced
Jimi Hendrix
So I've been trying to think of a reason to give this a 4 so the group average is tempered somewhat - Simon and Garfunkel's Bridge Over Troubled Water and Fleetwood Mac's Rumors are unequivocally better albums overall.
But I cannot. Thoroughly enjoyed pretty much all of this. Have been humming "Hey Joe" since the weekend. 4.5 stars.
5
Sep 19 2023
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Who's Next
The Who
A really solid 4 stars, based on the presence of Baba O'Riley, Behind Blue Eyes, and Won't Get Fooled Again. The middle stuff is decent and inoffensive.
4
Sep 20 2023
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The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan
This is more my kind of Dylan. Winding songs that don't go where you think they'll go, and incredibly creative and considered lyrics. "How many seas must a white dove sail, Before she sleeps in the sand" is both impenetrable but you understand what he's saying. Best songs beyond Blowin' In The Wind are A Hard Rain's A-Gonna Fall, Don't Think Twice, It's Alright, and I Shall Be Free. It is a work of genius that (in my middling opinion) could do with a trim. 4.4 stars.
4
Sep 21 2023
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Third
Soft Machine
The first track is bad. The second track, Slightly All The Time, is pretty good ambient music for a metropolitan city. I enjoyed the surprising directions the track went in. The third track is bad. The fourth track is bad. 1.5 stars.
2
Sep 22 2023
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Tarkus
Emerson, Lake & Palmer
Firstly, the title track is quite intense. It genuinely gave me heart palpitations. I didn't know what to think, I was quite impressed at how intense it was. I wouldn't listen to it again though. I didn't like Jeremy Bender, or Are You Ready Eddie?, but A Time and a Place is pretty good. So close to a 3 for me, but not quite.
2
Sep 25 2023
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Joan Armatrading
Joan Armatrading
I saw a really good documentary about her a couple of years ago - great voice, but have to agree with the group's general opinion regarding songs. A few too many that are slightly forgettable. Glad to have listened, don't think I'll be going back. Favourite songs: Water with the Wine, Love and Affection.
3
Sep 26 2023
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Rio
Duran Duran
A really refreshing album. Stands up incredibly well to the test of time - sounds buzzy, and the drums are pretty relentless. Not naff. Best songs - Rio, Hungry Like the Wolf, and Last Chance on the Stairway.
4
Sep 27 2023
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Hybrid Theory
Linkin Park
Minutes to Midnight was more my Linkin Park album, but this is great. So angsty, brings back memories of going out aged 16-17 round Bury. Runaway, Crawling, Forgotten, and of course In the End are the best songs.
I was at a bar in Kyoto about 2 months ago, and was speaking to the Japanese barman. He had a huge tattoo of "Chester" written on his arm. We had just been speaking with some Americans who had a friend at the University of Chester, so was baffled by the coincidence. Of course, turns out he was mourning Bennington. RIP.
4
Sep 28 2023
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The Scream
Siouxsie And The Banshees
Been over a year since the first Siouxsie and the Banshees album. I was reading on Wikipedia that this album influenced Massive Attack - which I get, I found myself humming some Teardrop during one of this album's songs.
Still, just a bit OK for me, wouldn't necessarily choose to listen again, like with Juju. It is better though, but not an additional star better. 2.7 for Juju, 3.4 for The Scream.
3
Sep 29 2023
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Peter Gabriel 3
Peter Gabriel
Peter Gabriel has a very, very good voice and I greatly enjoy a few of his other songs (Solsbury Hill, Sledgehammer, and the incredible Don't Give Up), so I had decent hopes for this.
I think this album is a display of musicianship. The best songs are No Self Control, and Nob on the Bus. Overall the first half of the album is significantly better than the second. The album could benefit from a bit of a trim and edit - there are a few loose tracks. However, it is definitely one of the best 4 stars I've given, but for me not quite a 5.
4
Oct 02 2023
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Home Is Where The Music Is
Hugh Masekela
Really pleasant smooth jazz. Started off strong but ended up having had enough just past half way.
2
Oct 03 2023
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Goodbye Yellow Brick Road
Elton John
I saw him in 2019 on his Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour. Wouldn't say then I was his biggest fan, nor now, however his skill and artistry is excellent. Album could do with a trim. Almost 5 stars, but not quite.
4
Oct 04 2023
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A Love Supreme
John Coltrane
Certainly is jazz, isn't it?
2
Oct 05 2023
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Unknown Pleasures
Joy Division
It was just a bit dull. I quite liked Shadowplay but many tracks felt like they never got going. Disappointed.
2
Oct 06 2023
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Pump
Aerosmith
Mildly interesting and a bit better than I was expecting. Love in an Elevator is the standout track. I didn't find the album as a whole irritating, Steven Tyler has a decent voice.
3
Oct 09 2023
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Ready To Die
The Notorious B.I.G.
I have a fair amount of time for Biggie, leaning more to the East Coast on the divide. One More Chance is good, I like his flow and beat choice.
3
Oct 10 2023
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The Stone Roses
The Stone Roses
Decent - I recognised many of the songs, and enjoyed listening to the album as a whole. Top tracks: Fools Gold, I Wanna Be Adored, Waterfall.
4
Oct 11 2023
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Treasure
Cocteau Twins
A heck of a lot more interesting than Heaven or Las Vegas. A bit less up itself, if that makes sense. Still a bit daft for me, but Persephone was decent.
2
Oct 12 2023
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With The Beatles
Beatles
Didn't mind any of this, and I'm "not a fan of the Beatles". The Beatles Story at the Albert Dock is excellent - focussing mainly on the early years, which is the era I'm most interested in (however I don't mind a few tracks from a few of their different albums). I don't think anyone that has lived in Liverpool is a fan of the Beatles, am yet to meet someone that qualifies. Saying that, the museum is good - lots of interesting memorabilia on display and recreations of eras and places, such as the Imagine room.
Listened to this whilst over-encumbered with flu. Helped my mental state - almost hallucinatory.
3
Oct 13 2023
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A Date With The Everly Brothers
The Everly Brothers
I'm a little surprised by the overwhelming negativity of the other reviews. Sure - dated, but mercifully short and each track is quite distinct. Love Hurts is great. I might be the target market - white bloke, mind of a 60-year-old.
2
Oct 16 2023
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Bitches Brew
Miles Davis
A little bit too free-form for me. Difficult to listen to as I'm conditioned to expect a track to go somewhere. Birth of the Cool was better, and I'm going to drop this a star for the track lengths.
1
Oct 17 2023
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Time Out
The Dave Brubeck Quartet
Some excellent, experimental jazz. Flew by. Knew Take Five and Blue Rondo a la Turk already. Thanks Dave.
4
Oct 18 2023
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Blood, Sweat & Tears
Blood, Sweat & Tears
Not quite a 4 overall, some of it was on the boring side. Spinning Wheel, Smiling Phases, and More and More are good. Not a fan of the God Bless The Child cover.
3
Oct 19 2023
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Tonight's The Night
Neil Young
I'm quite the fan of this type of music. I'm more familiar with Neil Young as part of CSNY - I've mentioned previously that Deja Vu is absolutely excellent - but I can't say I've listened to a lot of his solo work.
This is some ride. I can't say I picked out any one particular song that stood out (maybe as I had to listen through YouTube) but it had the great jangly guitars, felt like it was performed in a desert with the acoustics. Atmospheric, powerful lyrics. One of my highest-rated 4s.
4
Oct 20 2023
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Innervisions
Stevie Wonder
Ah this is a good album. Sure, many of the tracks last too long, but that is classic for the era. Visions, Higher Ground, and Don't You Worry 'Bout A Thing are great. Quite surprised this is the first Stevie Wonder album - it is the first of three excellent albums, culminating in Songs in the Key of Life. Looking forward to more wonder.
4
Oct 23 2023
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Franz Ferdinand
Franz Ferdinand
It is what it is. Take Me Out, Dark of the Matinee, Auf Achse, and Come on Home are bangers.
4
Oct 24 2023
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Meat Is Murder
The Smiths
A whole album of The Smiths is a lot. Absolutely on par with The Queen is Dead - fewer hits but an overall more cohesive album. Meat is Murder is a strange song - I've been a vegetarian for over 20 years, and yet I found the song daft and somehow made me think more about the animal flesh as food than as the horror that it actually is.
3
Oct 25 2023
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The Real Thing
Faith No More
Epic and From Out of Nowhere are pretty good. A good mix of songs and styles, but won't revisit.
3
Oct 26 2023
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Arrival
ABBA
Superb album. Really well-crafted, with a consistent sound and themes throughout but each song generally has a moment or two of magic.
I can't say I enjoy all the songs on the album; I don't care for "Dum Dum Diddle" or "That's Me", but the rest are pretty solid bangers. "My Love, My Life' is one of my favourite songs.
I don't really understand how you can give this album a low score, other than if you are a bit mad in the brains and trying to conform to being cool.
5
Oct 27 2023
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Freak Out!
The Mothers Of Invention
Really good fun, definitely sounds revolutionary. I agree wholeheartedly that the back falls off the album towards the end though. Classy riffs in quite a few tracks. Go Cry On Someone Else's Shoulder was brilliant.
4
Oct 30 2023
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Blue Lines
Massive Attack
I was a bit disappointed with this - I'm a big fan of Heligoland, it was one of my study-in-the-library albums. None of the songs on this first release caught my attention at all, sadly. Unfinished Sympathy is decent.
2
Oct 31 2023
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Siamese Dream
The Smashing Pumpkins
Very decent album - along with The National, Smashing Pumpkins have been revealed to me by this list. It isn't as adventurous or soaring as Melon Collie, however.
I would argue that most of the second half of the album, Soma onwards, is very dull. My favourite track is Disarm. 3 stars. Next!
3
Nov 01 2023
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Thriller
Michael Jackson
Plus one bad boy bonus.
All things considered, I find portions of the album to be rather exceptional.
Excellent production, super bouncy, loads of treble, and so on. I really enjoy the drums. The dynamism of the best tracks does, however, make the lesser tracks on the boring side (Human Nature, The Lady in my Life, Baby Be Mine).
Deliberating over my favourite songs, I can't pick between the absolute stomping middle of Thriller, Beat It, and Billie Jean. The impact of these songs in particular influenced the genre no end.
One could go on about his personal life, and let it affect your perception of this album, but taken as a piece of music, I find it grand. I think, even with the bad boy bonus, 4 is a very fair score.
4
Nov 02 2023
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Nighthawks At The Diner
Tom Waits
I'm afraid I didn't really "get" it. It was a bit of a difficult listen. His voice is grating. Love the jazzy live vibe, but can't fully get behind his singing, and the lyrics are mostly daft. I know that he is a decent artist - I really like Way Down in the Hole from another album, but I struggled here. I don't know what to think. Hated the intros.
Love the painting Nighthawks by Edward Hopper. Saw it in Chicago in 2017, and it lived up to my expectations. +1 art bonus.
2
Nov 03 2023
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Getz/Gilberto
Stan Getz
More jazzy world music, from Brazil. Does contain the best (for me) version of The Girl from Ipanema. I've had world music overload, there's a little too much on the list for my tastes.
2
Nov 06 2023
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Illinois
Sufjan Stevens
I really, really like this album. I have no idea why or how I got into it, all I remember is that I've been a fan of it for at least 10 years. I've bought it on CD on two separate occasions, and it currently sits in my car.
Expansive and yet introverted and intricate. Lovely range of melodies to the whole thing, but a coherence to it all. I'm thrilled that a lot of it is in a minor key, so when this changes, the "joyful songs" are that bit more joyful. I can recognise a lot of religious elements too, which maybe adds more grounding to the music, which can admittedly leap into a bit too ethereal at times.
My favourite songs are:
John Wayne Gacy Jr. -- possibly the sweetest, saddest song written about a serial killer. The true highlight of the album.
Casimir Pulaski Day -- I like the banjo. The song changes throughout but sort of doesn't.
Concerning the UFO sighting near Highland, Illiniois -- An epic introduction to the album.
The Seer's Tower -- Dismal and dingy, how I like most of my music.
They Are Night Zombies! ... -- A bit daft but original and memorable.
The Tallest Man, the Broadest Shoulders ... -- Soaring orchestral nonsense.
I have listened to his other stuff and, whilst good, doesn't captivate me the way that this does. I also didn't realise that he played the majority of the instruments on the album. Good stuff.
"I see the fire, I see the end". Just some nice writing.
5
Nov 07 2023
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Illmatic
Nas
Very pleasant to have on in the background but I can't say I'd seek Nas out.
3
Nov 08 2023
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Crocodiles
Echo And The Bunnymen
Monkeys is great, the rest I was less enamoured with. Not bad, just a little bit generic. A very, very lucky 3.
3
Nov 09 2023
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Deloused in the Comatorium
The Mars Volta
The creative force can't quite sustain itself. At times bombastic, frightening, amusing, and bizarre, and frequently within the same song. The album is far too long though, and would have been a fantastic recipient of some pretty sharp editing. Still, I greatly enjoyed the general sound and will listen to more of their stuff.
4
Nov 10 2023
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Safe As Milk
Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band
Sort of generic and sort of different. Wouldn't listen again, but glad I did. Autumn's Child was my favourite track, and I rather enjoyed some of the instrumental tracks at the end.
3
Nov 13 2023
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British Steel
Judas Priest
Rock-by-numbers. Not really interesting, didn't find anything novel or exciting.
2
Nov 14 2023
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Superfly
Curtis Mayfield
It is decent - but with film soundtracks the music is there to fit the film, not necessarily to fit the album, the artist, or the overall vibe. I think some of the album could have been trimmed. I recognised Superfly. Didn't do anything for me I'm afraid.
2
Nov 15 2023
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American Pie
Don McLean
Another fantastic album. I saw Don around 2019, and he was excellent. He played about a 15-minute version of the title track, which was a good old singalong. The album is so much more than one song though.
Vincent is such a beautiful song. Interestingly not very well-known here in the Netherlands. Evokes powerful imagery, captures the sadness of Vincent's life. One of Tupac's favourite songs apparently.
Crossroads, Empty Chairs, Babylon, and The Grave are also favourites, all quite depressing and thoughtful. He has a lovely voice, sweet and mellifluous, lovely guitar playing, and simple melodies.
5
Nov 16 2023
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The Next Day
David Bowie
I don't think I'll ever be the biggest Bowie fan, but this was rather good. Love is Lost, and The Stars (Are Out Tonight) are great. How Does the Grass Grow? stands out for me in particular, the intro seemingly sets up a different song before Bowie comes crashing in. A little on the long side, but very good.
4
Nov 17 2023
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Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1
George Michael
On the dreary and monotonous side. He does have a decent enough voice though. I prefer Freedom! '90 to Freedom, but only marginally, and only the radio edit.
I think Wham! are better, but still not quite my thing. Think Ridgeley's influence helped knock the self-indulgent nonsense on the head.
1
Nov 20 2023
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Synchronicity
The Police
Bit surprised the Geordies aren't more positive about Newcastle's famous son.
Not a bad album overall - starts weak (I didn't enjoy Synchronicity I or Walking in your Footsteps). Mother is bizarre but alright, Every Breath You Take is an over-played classic, and Murder By Numbers was most enjoyable.
Sting and the Police are incredibly prolific, and am generally a fan of numerous songs (the more miserable ones) so am looking forward to more.
3
Nov 21 2023
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All Things Must Pass
George Harrison
My Sweet Lord is, of course, superb. The rest of the album is decently solid, If Not For You stood out but the rest were pretty alright. A heavily-weighted 5 stars for My Sweet Lord, 3 and a bit for the rest of the album.
4
Nov 22 2023
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Basket of Light
Pentangle
Felt weirdly religious. Not a massive fan of the woman's vocals, the man's were more to my taste and I enjoyed his songs more. Springtime Promises was solid.
2
Nov 23 2023
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Shalimar
Rahul Dev Burman
Nice to have something a bit different. I enjoyed One Two Cha Cha Cha for the novelty factor, and Romantic Theme (Shalimar) is lovely, but I've heard much more dynamic and atmospheric Bollywood music - for example Malhari, from Bajirao Mastani.
2
Nov 24 2023
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The Stranger
Billy Joel
Very good album. Definitely prefer this nostalgic Americana to some of the rubbish he produced later on. Great songwriting and earnestly sung. Am hesitating between a 4 and a 5, but I think I'll go high to inflate the rating a bit. Best songs include Just The Way You Are, Vienna, Scenes From An Italian Restaurant, and She's Always A Woman. Got to appreciate the man's craft.
5
Nov 27 2023
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The Village Green Preservation Society
The Kinks
Quite a while since the last Kinks album - this one is my favourite of the three so far. Village Green, and Picture Book were good, and the album was wonderfully bizarre and cohesive. I do normally enjoy a concept album, no exception here.
4
Nov 28 2023
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Cheap Thrills
Big Brother & The Holding Company
I didn't know Janis Joplin was in a band before being a solo artist. I really enjoyed this - some songs went on a bit, but there's a great run of I Need a Man to Love, Summertime, and Piece of my Heart which is electric. Opened my eyes a bit to her and her music. Also I love the crunchy sound of the guitar on Ball and Chain.
4
Nov 29 2023
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If I Could Only Remember My Name
David Crosby
Have to agree with the group - starts off well, but by the end the wheels fall off. Might be better on repeat listenings - I think this is one of those albums that you might grow to love. Nash was always the best of the key trio anyway.
3
Nov 30 2023
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Walking Wounded
Everything But The Girl
I didn't enjoy the other EBTG album on the list, and I enjoyed this one less. Not for me, such wailing, pointless singing.
1
Dec 01 2023
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Meat Puppets II
Meat Puppets
Grew on me, listened to it twice. New Gods was the standout. Cohesive and yet not really. Punk-adjacent.
4
Dec 04 2023
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Jazz Samba
Stan Getz
Very jazzy, very samba.
I didn't realise quite how influential Brazilian music is - other than the titles, The Girl from Ipanema and One Note Samba are (for me) Sinatra hits, however both had their origins in South America.
This album was punchy and lively. Unlike the other Getz album, it is less background, laid-back jazz at a hotel: more like foreground jazz at a relaxed café.
3
Dec 05 2023
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Brilliant Corners
Thelonious Monk
A bit of a jazz overload - I didn't mind this to an extent. I like Thelonious, by Thelonious Monk, pretty iconic, but nothing stood out. Jazz can put me on edge, the lack of structure can be jarring.
2
Dec 06 2023
View Album
Dry
PJ Harvey
I've avoided PJ Harvey for a long time, I think I must have been particularly bitter about her Mercury Prize win in 2011.
Saying that, this is really good - clever lyrics, aggressive and clean guitar. Victory was my favourite off the album, but I also enjoyed Joe.
Finally, Spotify recommended some excellent songs when this album ended, including a couple from Hole. An all-in-all good experience. Will not be avoiding more of her stuff.
4
Dec 07 2023
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Tragic Songs of Life
The Louvin Brothers
Sorry lads. I have a lot of time for folk music, however this is almost entirely without merit.
1
Dec 08 2023
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Dear Science
TV On The Radio
Not for me at all this. Can appreciate that it is well-made, but too many bells and whistles and daft noises.
2
Dec 11 2023
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Led Zeppelin
Led Zeppelin
More mellow again than Led Zeppelin III.
3
Dec 12 2023
View Album
Elephant
The White Stripes
Good album this. Varied, coherent, highlights throughout. There's No Home For You Here, Seven Nation Army, and It's True That We Love One Another stood out.
4
Dec 13 2023
View Album
More Songs About Buildings And Food
Talking Heads
Talking Heads 77 was better - I'm disappointed by this, seems directionless. Like the genre, just don't think this album in particular is anything special - positive sound, very forgettable.
2
Dec 14 2023
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Oxygène
Jean-Michel Jarre
Parts IV and II were the best. Pleasant enough to have on in the background.
2
Dec 15 2023
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Endtroducing.....
DJ Shadow
Quite enjoyed this - still very fresh-sounding despite being nearly 20 years old. Like the repeated themes throughout. Will happily listen again.
4
Dec 18 2023
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The Suburbs
Arcade Fire
Wouldn't call myself an Arcade Fire fan - as I've not listened to their music before. The Suburbs seems kind of pointless. I liked Wasted Hours, but having read the other reviews, I just don't get this album. I thought they were a bit more rockier than this sentimental, simplistic, laconic nonsense. Also, far too long.
2
Dec 19 2023
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Black Sabbath
Black Sabbath
Maybe not as good as Paranoid, but still pretty excellent. Eclectic and rather buoyant and bombastic. NIB likely my favourite song but I was thoroughly enthused about the final two tracks.
4
Dec 20 2023
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The Hour Of Bewilderbeast
Badly Drawn Boy
Really rather enjoyed that. I didn't realise he is an indie singer-songwriter, thought it would be shouty stuff.
Some lovely introspective, sparse lyrics accompanied by intricate, almost plodding melodies. I enjoy the switch-ups too, few different time signatures and instrumentations help keep it interesting.
Once Around the Block, and Stone on the Water, were my favourite songs. My criticism is that it is a bit long.
4
Dec 21 2023
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Supa Dupa Fly
Missy Elliott
Dreadful
1
Dec 22 2023
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The Only Ones
The Only Ones
Thoroughly enjoyed this - really refreshing. Would argue you can hear Steve Lillywhite's influence. Quite surprised I hadn't heard of them before.
I added The Whole of the Law, Another Girl, Another Planet, The Beast, It's The Truth, No Peace for the Wicked, and Lovers Today to my rotation.
Quite a nice combo between New Wave, and a bit of Punk.
5
Dec 25 2023
View Album
At Fillmore East
The Allman Brothers Band
Far, far too indulgent. Some of this is alright, would have given it a 2, but come on guys, stop jamming and produce something succinct and meaningful. Harsh, but think of this as a lesson.
1
Dec 26 2023
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Otis Blue/Otis Redding Sings Soul
Otis Redding
I didn't realise it was an album of covers. Saying that, I generally enjoy the spin he puts on the tracks, and they are played sublimely.
A Change is Gonna Come, Wonderful World, and Rock Me Baby were the most enjoyable. -1 for not being original.
3
Dec 27 2023
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Lust For Life
Iggy Pop
Thought the first half of the album was absolutely banging - Lust for Life and The Passenger of course, but Some Weird Sin and Tonight were great. I think it falls apart a bit from just over half way though, ends up being a bit grating. The influence of Bowie is somewhat evident but Iggy certainly carved his own path.
4
Dec 28 2023
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m b v
My Bloody Valentine
Still surprised they aren't a screamo band, still prefer the tracks with the male vocalist, still not a fan.
2
Dec 29 2023
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Sunshine Superman
Donovan
Super psychedelic. Some of the tracks are extremely bland, some pretty special (Season of the Witch, Sunshine Superman, and Legend of a Girl Child Linda). Seemingly off his face when recording. Am verering towards a 3.5, but will round up as it was on the whole refreshing.
4
Jan 01 2024
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Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not
Arctic Monkeys
I had tickets to see them on tour last year, but I had to sell them. Not sure I would have enjoyed it anyway, he sings like a dickhead now.
I don't really like Still Take You Home, but the rest of the album consists of 4/5 star songs. Stunning when it came out, holds up well.
5
Jan 02 2024
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Mothership Connection
Parliament
Too funky for me, couldn't handle it.
2
Jan 03 2024
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Red Dirt Girl
Emmylou Harris
Inoffensively bland. I can't give it a 1 as I would have it on in the background, but this is nothing special whatsoever.
2
Jan 04 2024
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Hms Fable
Shack
I didn't mind it at all. Beautiful was pretty good. The album suffers from a bit of a lack of identity, lots of decent songs but I'd struggle to pick up on a specific sound. Nice songwriting though.
3
Jan 05 2024
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I’m a Lonesome Fugitive
Merle Haggard
I think there have been a few too many rotten Country albums on this list. This one is better than the average - good walking rhythms, but thematically standard. Life In Prison was decent.
2
Jan 08 2024
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Grace
Jeff Buckley
Bit strong this Jeff.
Grace and Hallelujah were good, but he doesn't half over-emote. I think the album would have benefited as a piece of art from him calming right down. Still, pretty decent if only sporadically.
3
Jan 09 2024
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(Pronounced 'Leh-'Nérd 'Skin-'Nérd)
Lynyrd Skynyrd
That was utterly cracking.
I think 5 stars alone for Simple Man and Free Bird, but so many other good songs - Tuesday's Gone was probably my favourite of the rest. Essentially my kind of music. Soaring.
5
Jan 10 2024
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Mott
Mott The Hoople
I quite enjoyed this. Ballad of Mott the Hoople, and I Wish I Was Your Mother, stood out the most. Not a fan of banging in the live track at the end, but think this is just the expanded edition. Wouldn't really say Glam Rock, more Traditional Rock but can hear the Bowie influences. A very solid 3.5.
4
Jan 11 2024
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Teenager Of The Year
Frank Black
A very odd album. I was pleasantly surprised; like a music critic said, the album artwork gives the wrong impression entirely.
Calistan and Freedom Rock were great, Fiddle Riddle utterly rotten, and the rest pretty enjoyable.
Quite like the sound, is relatively consistent between the Pixies which I also enjoyed. Nice one Frank.
4
Jan 12 2024
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Loveless
My Bloody Valentine
My patience with this has gone entirely.
1
Jan 15 2024
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Cloud Nine
The Temptations
I didn't really enjoy this. Felt dated and overly long despite being a short album.
1
Jan 16 2024
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The Slim Shady LP
Eminem
The tracks hold up surprisingly well. A bit on the violent, women-hating side, but great flows and the beats are good. I knew the big hitters, but My Fault and As The World Turns were my under-the-radar favourites.
The skits are terrible though, and add nothing.
4
Jan 17 2024
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Come Find Yourself
Fun Lovin' Criminals
Goodness me this is silly and juvenile. Overall, just a bit too much. 1.4 stars. Wouldn't listen to anything else by them.
1
Jan 18 2024
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Ten
Pearl Jam
Alive and Jeremy were great. But I can't add anything more than what the other reviews say. 3.5, as the second half of the album is less bombastic and I got a little bored.
4
Jan 19 2024
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Rock Bottom
Robert Wyatt
I can see what he was going for, but it wore my patience out. Probably goes a bit over my head. I can't 100% make up my mind about it - on a different day I think I'd enjoy it, but it was a bit of a struggle. I didn't mind Alifib. Also - the tracks need to be shorter.
2
Jan 22 2024
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Cross
Justice
Really surprised by this - I can tolerate Daft Punk, and so roughly new what to expect. Valentine, Phantom Pt. II, Dance, and Genesis were my favourites. Sort of felt amped up but also chilled out afterwards.
I didn't actually realise that so much of this album is used on soundtracks - felt sort of nostalgic and exciting.
Almost no tracks outstayed their welcome either - and one or two ended too soon for me, which is rare. I'm struggling to think of a reason not to give a 5, so 5 it is.
5
Jan 23 2024
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MTV Unplugged In New York
Nirvana
There's a lot to like about this album - I think I probably prefer it to their studio albums. It sounds raw but polished at the same time, I have no idea how they managed to capture the sound that they do.
Honest writing helps, nothing is overwrought. Great stuff. Don't think I can give it a 5, but it is a very, very well-regarded 4.
4
Jan 24 2024
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Stankonia
OutKast
Not for me this, generally agree that the better tracks contain the rapping, which is generally of good value.
2
Jan 25 2024
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Get Rich Or Die Tryin'
50 Cent
Dreadful. In Da Club does have a decent rhythm and I remember it being exceptionally popular. A poor, violent album.
1
Jan 26 2024
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La Revancha Del Tango
Gotan Project
Thrilling - I have a lot of time for this music, and I knew a couple already. Seen plenty an Argentine Tango on Strictly to some of these tunes.
Gotan = Tango.
4
Jan 29 2024
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Live At The Regal
B.B. King
Great voice, lots of atmosphere, but not something I'd return to.
3
Jan 30 2024
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...And Justice For All
Metallica
On par with their other albums, think we've had the three best ones, made in Metallica's creative peak. Is it a bit daft? Yes. Are the lyrics silly? Yes. Are there some naff sounding guitars and drums? Yes. Is it enjoyable? Yes.
Eye of the Beholder and One are great. It all kind of blends into one, which isn't necessarily bad - just different. They have a very defined sound.
4
Jan 31 2024
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Sister
Sonic Youth
First half better than the second half. Quite enjoyed it overall, Stereo Sanctity and Schizophrenia stand out.
4
Feb 01 2024
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Pet Sounds
The Beach Boys
I expected to like the album a lot, but I don't. It is dreary. Other than Wouldn't It Be Nice, everything sounds roughly the same. God Only Knows is miserable. I've read the Wikipedia article, and reviews, but I just don't get it, the hype. Probably my own fault. Thoroughly disappointed.
2
Feb 02 2024
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The Slider
T. Rex
Some good bits, but I definitely lost interest mid-way through. All too samey.
2
Feb 05 2024
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Live At Leeds
The Who
I mean it is a good album, and sounds great, but I'm on the fence about live albums being included on the list. Having read the history and the purpose of the album I can understand this one a bit more, but even so. My Generation was notably good, 2.5 stars.
3
Feb 06 2024
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Automatic For The People
R.E.M.
Would still say I prefer Reveal, despite this being on the whole, excellent. I've heard many of the songs on the album before, love Man on the Moon, but re-listening to Nightswimming is a bit of a revelation. Maybe I'm in a melancholy mood, but, truly great stuff. One of the easiest 4 stars I've given.
4
Feb 07 2024
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Da Capo
Love
I finished the album but couldn't tell you a single thing about it. Pleasant. Not really interested in listening again.
2
Feb 08 2024
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All That You Can't Leave Behind
U2
The first 3 tracks are fine. More than tolerable, but short of enjoyable. The rest is not fine.
2
Feb 09 2024
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Next
The Sensational Alex Harvey Band
This is an insane record. Gang Bang is an earworm. The theatricality of Next is brilliant. The guy's voice is good. It sounds decades ahead of its time. Pretty exhausting, and I'm not sure that I'd like to re-listen, but goodness me this is good.
4
Feb 12 2024
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Eliminator
ZZ Top
Still surprisingly bluesy. Got Me Under Pressure and Sharp Dressed Man were my favourites. I preferred this album to the previous one on this list, but only just. Appreciate the relative brevity of the songs here.
4
Feb 13 2024
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Black Holes and Revelations
Muse
Probably the band I've seen the most often live - had to sell my ticket for last year in Oberhausen unfortunately. Although I would say diminishing returns each time.
Their dive into problems of technology, totalitarianism, and thought experiments reeks of ill-comprehended "alternative thought" for the misunderstood masses though, just get on with the tunes lads. Less of this lowest common denominator edgy stuff.
That being said, early-era Muse (Origin of Symmetry - The Resistance) were great. Creative riffs, really impactful drumming, and lovely vocals (again roughly ignoring the subject matter). Black Holes and Revelations is between my two favourite albums (Absolution and The Resistance) and is incredibly solid. Supermassive Black Hole, Starlight, City of Delusion are superb, and Map of the Problematique, Invincible, and Take a Bow come just underneath. Special shout-out to Knights of Cydonia - their best track?
Happy to see them on the list - I think they did something different and special and should be rewarded.
2010, T in the Park, just after the release of The Resistance, right at the front. Astonishing.
5
Feb 14 2024
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Band On The Run
Paul McCartney and Wings
Decent but I'd vaguely had enough towards the end. Band on the Run and Mrs Vandebilt were my favourites. The man can write a song, that much is clear.
3
Feb 15 2024
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Logical Progression
LTJ Bukem
I wouldn't have this on in the background. The first few tracks sound like those tinny polyphonic ringtones on a 3510.
A redundant inclusion in this list.
1
Feb 16 2024
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System Of A Down
System Of A Down
I like Toxicity; I can remember many, many nights out around 2006-2008 soundtracked by SoaD songs, but on reflection their music for me is nostalgic - it is for a younger, dafter audience.
I hadn't heard this album before. The guy has an incredible voice, I really enjoy the changes in intensity within songs, and think the album is varied enough to maintain attention. 3.5 stars.
4
Feb 19 2024
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After The Gold Rush
Neil Young
Southern Man is absolutely cracking. Brilliant album overall, not much more to say. Nice and crisp. I like his voice, I love the style of music, ticked all the boxes for me. Looking forward to Harvest.
5
Feb 20 2024
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Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
Think I enjoyed the first half more than the second; looking forward to Harvest.
3
Feb 21 2024
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Fuzzy
Grant Lee Buffalo
Have read that it was very influential in the genre. I think more that other bands (Oasis, Radiohead) probably took the best ideas and stylings and improved upon them, binning the shit bits.
Didn't blow me away. Title track was my favourite. Got old fast, but not in a way that irritated me. 2.5 stars.
3
Feb 22 2024
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Haunted Dancehall
The Sabres Of Paradise
This is less an album, more a test of patience. Wilmot (despite being too long) is the best track; not sure how much of the rest was needed. 0.4 stars for Wilmot.
1
Feb 23 2024
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I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got
Sinead O'Connor
I'm on the fence about overly-political artists. Part of me thinks, stick to making music, but another part sees the purpose of using a platform to highlight well-informed ideas. Sinead's politics impacted her career and her mental health negatively, but her music positively.
Saying that, Nothing Compares 2 U is by far the best track on the album, her best ever (I also like Troy from The Lion and the Cobra). Slightly too much wailing and some dated production.
2
Feb 26 2024
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From Elvis In Memphis
Elvis Presley
I appreciate the age of the album but I found the sound mixing overall rather bad. Long Black Limousine is the stand-out track. I prefer the Dolly Parton version of In the Ghetto.
2
Feb 27 2024
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Green
R.E.M.
I'm still an Out of Time man (not yet listened to Automatic for the People from a few weeks ago). I think it is decent enough but so forgettable. None of the arrangements stood out in the same way Man on the Moon does, for example. I am a little disappointed.
2
Feb 28 2024
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The College Dropout
Kanye West
For me, Kanye West is 808s and Heartbreak, and My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy. Yeezus is cracking, I like Watch the Throne with Jay-Z, and would pick and choose songs from his earlier albums. So I've not listened to his first three "academic" albums in full. The College Dropout was very, very solid. Jesus Walks and The New Workout Plan stood out most. Regarding skits, I do not understand the re-listen value. Last Call was very interesting, but I wouldn't listen to the story again.
3.5 stars. Bad boy bonus, of course, but this isn't a 5 album.
4
Feb 29 2024
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D.O.A. the Third and Final Report of Throbbing Gristle
Throbbing Gristle
What was all that about then?
1
Mar 01 2024
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Cypress Hill
Cypress Hill
Probably appealing to Jack. Didn't mind it overall though, How I Could Just Kill A Man was decent. Would say I'm more into East Coast rap - lyrically frequently less interesting but much harder beats.
3
Mar 04 2024
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Brothers In Arms
Dire Straits
Have to agree with Jack, first three tracks were superb. Listening to them made me feel strong and confident, ready to take on the world. Almost like an attack. The middle of the album was middling.
4
Mar 05 2024
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Blue
Joni Mitchell
Graham Nash of CSNY tells a beautiful story about how he met Joni Mitchell, and how he wrote Our House about their short relationship. He says, "heartbreaking, but at least I have a heart to break".
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1z3xTdZqzb0
So apart from that, and Both Sides Now, I don't know her that well, and I was interested to listen to this. The writing is sublime: radiant, sweet and melancholic. Quite often very revealing - I don't think people write like this any more. Generally hits the sweet spot for me for folk rock/classic rock. Unfortunately I did tire of her voice, struggled a bit by the end. Agree with Jack, Blue and California stood out the most.
Shame this isn't on Spotify - I'd definitely give this a re-listen.
4
Mar 06 2024
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Double Nickels On The Dime
Minutemen
Ah that was really fun. Definitely appreciate the short songs, came across as truly freewheeling.
Best songs were Storm in My House, West Germany, and Corona.
Refreshing.
4
Mar 07 2024
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Chemtrails Over The Country Club
Lana Del Rey
Appreciate her vibe is dreary, but this takes the piss a bit. Can write a song. 1 feels harsh, and I didn't mind Dark But Just A Game, so you can be happy with 2 stars Lana.
2
Mar 08 2024
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Scream, Dracula, Scream
Rocket From The Crypt
I get the criticism about it feeling slightly held back, but this is still a super album. I really enjoyed Drop Out, Ball Lightning, Heater Hands, and Misbeaten. One of those where you maybe have to be in the right mood to listen. Hovering between a 4 and 5, but I was in the right mood to listen. Punk music should sound "loud", and this does.
5
Mar 11 2024
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GI
Germs
Well, this is certainly punk. Ahead of its time.
3
Mar 12 2024
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Tago Mago
Can
The second half of the album is the definition of a challenging listen. The first half, would give a 3. Nothing spectacular but I did enjoy parts of Oh Yeah, and I wouldn't say it was dull. The second half was anti-music, a wall of crashing, indeterminate noise, and not one I'd like to hear again ever. Strange stuff this.
2
Mar 13 2024
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The Contino Sessions
Death In Vegas
Some of this was pretty miserable however the songs I enjoyed, Broken Little Sister and Lever Street, were really great. Hard to rank it.
4
Mar 14 2024
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She's So Unusual
Cyndi Lauper
Time After Time and Girls Just Want to Have Fun aside, the rest of the album was mostly alright. Consistent production, very 80's, loads of synth. He's So Unusual was incredibly irritating though, faux record player, honky-tonk keys, pathetic lyrics and unnecessarily fey singing. It riled me, so -1.
3
Mar 15 2024
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Harvest
Neil Young
Harvest is good. Finally on Spotify. Heart of Gold is such a classic, and I also like the title track, and Old Man. Absolutely fantastic songwriting, and his wailing compliments the whole thing.
5
Mar 18 2024
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Fever Ray
Fever Ray
Best tracks were If I Had a Heart and Now's the Only Time I Know. The tracks with the singing were better than the instrumentals. A hard one to rate, I genuinely enjoyed the two I mentioned, but some of the others (Coconut) were garbage. Appreciate the atmospheric production.
3
Mar 19 2024
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Close To You
Carpenters
I quite liked Mr. Guder and the cover of Help, but this was a bit too saccharine. Lovely voice she had though.
2
Mar 20 2024
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Want One
Rufus Wainwright
I like the guy - similar vein to Sufjan Stevens although more emotive and theatrical. Loads of references to other songs throughout. Other than Poses, not listened to one of his albums all the way through. A bit samey but I think this is partially due to how he sings - the orchestration and songwriting are fantastic. On the fence between a 4 and 5. Feeling kind.
5
Mar 21 2024
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The Sounds Of India
Ravi Shankar
I found this overall a little irritating. Not my cup of tea unfortunately, but I do appreciate the musical talent on display.
1
Mar 22 2024
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Manassas
Stephen Stills
Thoroughly enjoyed that. Jesus Gave Love Away for Free, Hide It So Deep, and Colorado were my favourite tracks. The album was on the long side if I'm honest, and wasn't overly dynamic, but the feel and the atmosphere created are definitely my kind of thing. Lots of jamming. CSNY flourished best when working together.
4
Mar 25 2024
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What's That Noise?
Coldcut
Solid 2 stars. Parts were interesting, other parts were not. First half better than second half. Some tracks merged together too much.
2
Mar 26 2024
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Non-Stop Erotic Cabaret
Soft Cell
Really repetitive. Very disappointing. I do quite like Tainted Love, but it is a cover. Not great.
1
Mar 27 2024
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Hejira
Joni Mitchell
Good voice and good writing but I really switched off. Preferred her earlier stuff, even though I recognise this is a good album.
2
Mar 28 2024
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Black Metal
Venom
Would say this is light thrash metal. Lyrics are daft but generally enjoyed the sound, was humming along a few times. Nightmare and Teacher's Pet were my favourite songs. Plenty of double bass drumming.
3
Mar 29 2024
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The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill
Lauryn Hill
Can appreciate that it is good. Dislike the chatty bits between songs, seems indulgent. To Zion is a very, very good song, but overall just not my cup of tea. Sorry love.
2
Apr 01 2024
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White Light
Gene Clark
Nice lyrics but limited in singing. Just a bit too bland and nice. I did enjoy For A Spanish Guitar, but the rest of the album is inoffensively bland.
2
Apr 02 2024
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Yank Crime
Drive Like Jehu
Not at all what I expected from the name, thought it would be some trip-hop nonsense. Really fun and dynamic, paving the way for the emo nonsense that I really enjoy a decade or so later. Do You Compute was particularly memorable.
4
Apr 03 2024
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Arc Of A Diver
Steve Winwood
I think I was in the perfect mood for this. I know a few of them anyway. My favourite Winwood song is Valerie, on his next album - so good that he is consistent.
Second-Hand Woman, While You See A Chance, Night Train, and Spanish Dancer stood out.
Thanks Steve.
5
Apr 04 2024
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Throwing Muses
Throwing Muses
Not for me this.
2
Apr 05 2024
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Fuzzy Logic
Super Furry Animals
Liked this less than the previous album - nothing really jumped out at me. A terrifically bland listen.
2
Apr 08 2024
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For Your Pleasure
Roxy Music
Always had the impression they were a synth pop group - the experimental/prog rock was a pleasant surprise. In Every Dream Home A Heartache, and For Your Pleasure were the best songs. Did go on too long, and did become a little repetitive. Decent enough though, nice one Eno.
3
Apr 09 2024
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Ágætis Byrjun
Sigur Rós
Far too long and incoherent. One song was just loads of tapping in different rhythms. Can understand why others like them, but this was a chore.
1
Apr 10 2024
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Before And After Science
Brian Eno
I enjoyed By This River and Spider and I. Backwater was good, in a "this is cheesy and moronic" way. Liked the gist of the album. Mildly experimental - sounds like he was making the music he wanted to make. Nowhere near a 5.
4
Apr 11 2024
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Life's Too Good
The Sugarcubes
Motorcrash and Cold Sweat were great, but the rest meandered between annoying and boring.
3
Apr 12 2024
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The Soft Bulletin
The Flaming Lips
Reading our reviews, everyone has different favourites. That's pretty cool - they have a fair amount of diversity on the album and a number of good tracks. For me, What is the Light, The Spiderbite Song, and The Spark that Bled really stand out. A very easy 4. Great stuff.
4
Apr 15 2024
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Led Zeppelin IV
Led Zeppelin
Quite good isn't it. Taking the Jack approach - no one can write anything further about Stairway to Heaven. Black Dog and Going to California were my favourites. I never realised how middle-of-the-road Led Zeppelin were until this list, very easy to listen to.
5
Apr 16 2024
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World Clique
Deee-Lite
Not really for me this. +1 for Groove is in the Heart.
2
Apr 17 2024
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Trafalgar
Bee Gees
They were nearly irrelevant until Clapton and some others convinced them to turn to disco. I'm looking forward to one of their later albums to be fair, but this is dross.
1
Apr 18 2024
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Elephant Mountain
The Youngbloods
I didn't mind this at all. Quicksand, Sham, and Don't Let the Rain Bring You Down (I know the intro from somewhere) were the best songs. I enjoyed the wide range of styles employed. Folky, psychadelic-y, thought it was pretty good actually.
4
Apr 19 2024
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Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley
I don't really get it either. Blue Suede Shoes is decent.
2
Apr 22 2024
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Neon Bible
Arcade Fire
I can't muster the same kind of enthusiasm as the other lads for this one. Nice enough in the background. Sounds a bit like an orchestral Coldplay with different singing.
3
Apr 23 2024
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Rip It Up
Orange Juice
Alright in the background, quite enjoyed Breakfast Time (I usually do) but no desire to go back.
2
Apr 24 2024
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Dig Your Own Hole
The Chemical Brothers
Not really my thing, a bit too repetitive.
2
Apr 25 2024
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Time Out Of Mind
Bob Dylan
Super solid late-career effort from Dylan. Standing in the Doorway is great, and I also wasn't aware he wrote Make You Feel My Love. His voice isn't that bad here to be fair, but not something for everyone.
4
Apr 26 2024
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Guitar Town
Steve Earle
Steve Earle lays it on a bit thick. From his appearance, you expect something with a bit more substance (his own life is quite interesting) but this is a bit too generic. Nice voice, but dreary songs. I liked Little Rock 'n' Roller.
2
Apr 29 2024
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Aha Shake Heartbreak
Kings of Leon
Found it quite hard to form an opinion on this. The Bucket is a good song. Pretty middle-of-the-road modern rock. Feeling generous.
I did not enjoy what Kings of Leon transformed into.
3
Apr 30 2024
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Younger Than Yesterday
The Byrds
For me, just a little bland. I enjoyed Why (definitely heard it before) and Everybody's Been Burned. Strange as I like this kind of stuff normally, lightly psychedelic folk rock, but it didnt do anything. The line-ups of The Byrds though, what a parade of legends.
3
May 01 2024
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Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
A bit too breezy. Tend to agree with the rest - American Girl is the best. Just not enough for me.
2
May 02 2024
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Kind Of Blue
Miles Davis
Good jazz, nothing further to note.
3
May 03 2024
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First Band On The Moon
The Cardigans
Could have sworn they were Welsh. Lovefool is pretty great, of course, and I liked most of the other songs; Never Recover was the best of the rest. Interested if their other album pops on the list.
4
May 06 2024
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A Walk Across The Rooftops
The Blue Nile
I loved the title track. Thought it was pretty stunning actually - miserable and dark, jazzy, thoughtful (if a touch repetitive) introspective, loud, loads of contrast. The rest of the album is pretty lacklustre. 2.5 overall, but a 5 for A Walk Across The Rooftops alone. Memorable song.
3
May 07 2024
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Pacific Ocean Blue
Dennis Wilson
Far too long but I did enjoy it. Much more experimental and "edgy" than the Beach Boys stuff. Sad how his life ended. Thoughts of You was the standout, but I'll be revisiting.
4
May 08 2024
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KE*A*H** (Psalm 69)
Ministry
Not for me - I found it overall rather irritating. Not really my genre in the first place to be absolutely fair, however I just didn't really 'get' it. I found it silly and bland. Nothing more from me.
1
May 09 2024
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I See A Darkness
Bonnie "Prince" Billy
Super annoying this isn't on spotify - definitely a few songs I'd like to listen to (Death to Everyone, I See a Darkness). A rather solitary atmosphere. Sparse, haunting, but engaging. Not all songs were good though, Madeleine-Mary was a mess - some awful overdubbing. Seems like quite a prolific musician, I'm a bit surprised I'd not heard of him.
4
May 10 2024
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Bookends
Simon & Garfunkel
An easy 5. Always had a soft spot for Simon & Garfunkel - melancholy might be my favourite "genre".
The highlights:
America, Old Friends, Mrs. Robinson, At the Zoo
The lowlights: Voices of Old People
Special mention to A Hazy Shade of Winter. I have no idea how many times I've listened to this song, potentially top 5 ever. It drives forward, the melody is brilliant. Tight and focused writing complementing an excellent rhythm pattern. Not wasteful - I always enjoy the sudden ending. Sublime.
5
May 13 2024
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Headquarters
The Monkees
Randy Scouse Git was the best, it's a bit of a tune actually. Punky. Quite varied overall. I only know their two songs about believing, so I was really pleasantly surprised. Not enough to come back though. Just changed my perception of the lads.
3
May 14 2024
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Liege And Lief
Fairport Convention
Found it fairly irritating at the start, but by the end I was enjoying it. Perhaps the second half of the album was stronger? Tam Lin stood out. Loads of wailing. 3.5 for me.
3
May 15 2024
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Felt Mountain
Goldfrapp
I didn't mind Lovely Head but this is rough. Hard to listen to, far too many nonsense ambient or jarring noises. No thanks.
1
May 16 2024
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Darklands
The Jesus And Mary Chain
Down on Me is pretty good. Doesn't sound very 80s, they must have been pre-punk post-punk. Overall listenable but nothing else stands out. 3.5 would be perfect, but rounding down for being a bit bland on the latter half of the album.
3
May 17 2024
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The Sensual World
Kate Bush
I thought the Maxwell version of This Woman's Work was the original. Either way, this was a dreary slog, tedious. Hard to review - This Woman's Work is brilliant, but the rest feels like an empty repeat of her previous work. The Hounds of Love album, just a few years prior, is brilliant. Just scrapes a 1.5.
2
May 20 2024
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Kilimanjaro
The Teardrop Explodes
A brilliant surprise! Went Crazy, Brave Boys Keep Their Promises, and Bouncing Baby were good. I like the lead singer's voice, the era and style of music are a bit of fun. New Wave isn't a genre I massively enjoy but these guys have much more punk rock elements and switch the songs up quite a lot. Will err on the side of caution with the rating though.
5
May 21 2024
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Either Or
Elliott Smith
Favourite tracks were Speed Trials, Alameda, Ballad of Big Nothing, Pictures of Me, and 2:45am. Really solid album this - well put together and varied. Been a couple of years since the first one on the list, and I enjoyed that one too. Lots of time for a melancholy singer-songwriter.
5
May 22 2024
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Red Headed Stranger
Willie Nelson
Definitely one of the better country albums. A bit repetitive. I prefer my country music really depressing BUT varied. 3 stars.
3
May 23 2024
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Gris Gris
Dr. John
What a bizarre album. More like, musings and thoughts over some snazzy riffs. Wouldn't want to listen again, but appreciate this might be absolutely brilliant for some people.
2
May 24 2024
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Graceland
Paul Simon
I prefer Simon and Garfunkel. I think Paul Simon, left to his own devices, can get a little twee. You Can Call Me Al, and Graceland, are the best tracks on the album. The guitar-focussed songs are also generally better. This is a 3.5 for me.
4
May 27 2024
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Let's Stay Together
Al Green
Let's Stay Together is great. I also really like, How Can You Mend a Broken Heart - but it is a Bee Gees cover, so -1. The rest of the album isn't noteworthy. Sorry Reverend.
1
May 28 2024
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New Boots And Panties
Ian Dury
What on earth was all that about then?! At least it was distinctive. Entertaining at first, grating by the end, Billericay Dickie and Wake Up and Make Love with Me are the standouts. Not again though, thanks.
2
May 29 2024
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Henry's Dream
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
I don't really mind Nick Cave now. The Boatman's Call was cracking. This does get monotonous. His shtick is dreary, miserable songs about death, and once you look past that I think you can see the craftsmanship in each song. Lyrically interesting, but overall less enjoyable than Boatmen. I Had a Dream, Joe, and Christina the Astonishing were my favourite tracks. 3.5.
4
May 30 2024
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Mama's Gun
Erykah Badu
Nearly nothing to add here - just dismal and repetitive. Sounds like she put in barely any effort.
1
May 31 2024
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Only Built 4 Cuban Linx
Raekwon
Bit long, but overall decent. The beats were good, flow was solid, didn't pay too much attention to the lyrics so I presume they are a bit spicy. Great production too, sounds sharp nearly 30 years later.
3
Jun 03 2024
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Kick Out The Jams (Live)
MC5
Can't say I didn't like it, but I remember absolutely nothing from the album. Pretty much just fine.
2
Jun 04 2024
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Post Orgasmic Chill
Skunk Anansie
I've never listened to Skunk Anansie - I think the name put me off. I presumed they were part of an early low-fi movement; was quite surprised at their sound. "Modern rock".
I really enjoyed the guitar throughout. I appreciate that the singer and the lyrics generally drive this band, but the guitar work was notable, especially on e.g. Lately and And This Is Nothing That I Thought I Had.
We Don't Need Who You Think You Are was my favourite track. Skin has a very dynamic voice, which can be a bit tiring over the 50 minute album length.
4
Jun 05 2024
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Tical
Method Man
Probably the best of the Hip Hop / Gangsta Rap albums we've had. Considered lyrics, cool voice, interesting use of samples. And he was good in The Wire.
4
Jun 06 2024
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The Man Machine
Kraftwerk
Been a while since we've had Kraftwerk. I think this is really on par with Autobahn. The experimentalism is a big more focussed on Man Machine, but still retains a lot of the silliness. Solid 4 stars, would be happy to listen again. Flew by.
4
Jun 07 2024
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Now I Got Worry
The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion
It is decent but it isn't half long. The first track, opening with the yelling, sort of misleads you for the rest of the album - nothing quite hit that level of madness. Nevertheless, an enjoyable listen.
3
Jun 10 2024
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Faith
George Michael
Why is every song around 5 minutes long? Conceptually, they are incredibly thin. Stretching each one out with long intros, fades out, multiple repetitions of the chorus; all serve to make this album incredibly irritating. I'd wager that if each song was 3 minutes long, even that bizarre Monkey one, this album would creep towards listenable. Even Faith, at a bit over 3 minutes, overstays its welcome. Maybe a product of the times?
That being said, I didn't mind Look At Your Hands.
1
Jun 11 2024
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Bossanova
Pixies
Better than Doolittle, not quite as good as Teenager of the Year. Some catchy songs (Blown Away, Cecilia Ann, Rock Music), and the album generally whips through. Quite enjoyed this, a fair few songs added to my rotation.
4
Jun 12 2024
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The Downward Spiral
Nine Inch Nails
I didn't really get it. The jarring noises ended up feeling so frequent that the music faded into the background - I found this utterly anonymous.
1
Jun 13 2024
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Ladies And Gentlemen We Are Floating In Space
Spiritualized
Quite a good surprise this. Best tracks were Broken Heart and No God Only Religion, and I had a lot of time for the second half of the album overall (including the 16 minute ambience at the end). Interesting stuff.
4
Jun 14 2024
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Future Days
Can
On the long side. Moonshake was good. Pretty cool considering how old it is, and I liked the production, sounds clean but still "thrown together".
3
Jun 17 2024
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The Pleasure Principle
Gary Numan
Cars is a banger. Despite nearly all of the songs sounding the same, by the end I grew to quite enjoy it. The live tracks were superfluous, however were enjoyable, so am ambivalent. On Broadway, the CD bonus track, was excellent.
3
Jun 18 2024
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Mask
Bauhaus
Alright in the background, but I was a bit disappointed - I expected something luminous from gothic rock. So overall, the album didn't resonate with me at all. The song about fishcakes bumped it up.
3
Jun 19 2024
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Back At The Chicken Shack
Jimmy Smith
I'm sure the chicken shack is great, but I found this a bit rote. Same progressions, predictable. I liked the organ.
2
Jun 20 2024
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Electric
The Cult
Can't say much more than what the others have said. Not as good as AC/DC, but good enough to pass the time.
3
Jun 21 2024
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Dookie
Green Day
At the time, you either liked emo music or skater music, and I was more into emo. I don't mind Green Day at all, and this album is a classic. Welcome to Paradise and Basket Case stand out, of course, but the rest of the album zips by. Good stuff guys. Wondering when we'll get some My Chemical Romance or Fall Out Boy though.
4
Jun 24 2024
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Bright Flight
Silver Jews
Thoroughly miserable but very enjoyable. Horseleg Swastikas stood out the most, I liked the water metaphor and some great lyrics. Transylvania Blues, and Room Games and Diamond Rain were also pretty great. Seemingly low production values positively contribute to the album. Effective use of loudness and quietness.
4
Jun 25 2024
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Hail To the Thief
Radiohead
I've somehow managed to totally avoid Radiohead. This is worth listening to, but just doesn't do anything for me - the singing is too strained, too many weird metaphors and descriptions in the lyrics, and I often find the music a bit repetitive. Some inspiring use of instruments and rhythms though. Glad I heard it; solidified my opinion as, "solid but not really for me".
3
Jun 26 2024
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Nevermind
Nirvana
Easy 5 stars. Iconic album, only one track I didn't care for. Drain You is probably my favourite of the ones that aren't "classics".
5
Jun 27 2024
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Like A Prayer
Madonna
Like A Prayer is a solid pop song. I also didn't mind Till Death Do Us Part, but this is a bit of a slog. Just isn't that interesting beyond a certain point. Really simple production doesn't help, nor does her voice. +1 for Like A Prayer.
2
Jun 28 2024
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Exodus
Bob Marley & The Wailers
I preferred his earlier work with the proper Wailers. This is good, however a lot of the weird mystery stuff has been dropped for more religious themes. Jamming, One Love, and Three Little Birds are good of course, but the rest largely blended into one. I feel harsh giving it 3 stars but I have absolutely no interest in re-listening to the repetitive stuff.
3
Jul 01 2024
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Reign In Blood
Slayer
Quite good fun. The opposite of boring, and yet quite listenable - lots of tempo changes in each track. Also distinct. Necrophobic, Criminally Insane, and Raining Blood were the best tracks.
4
Jul 02 2024
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Sweetheart Of The Rodeo
The Byrds
Really irritating and not what I expected based on the previous album. Doesn't really get going.
1
Jul 03 2024
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The Infotainment Scan
The Fall
Preferred This Nation's Saving Grace, but this is decent. Accessible, and listenable. I can't really give this a 4, because some of it is a bit dull and noisy (I prefer the middle of the album). And the music is a bit uninspiring. Hometown hero.
3
Jul 04 2024
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Appetite For Destruction
Guns N' Roses
The album (and band) only really got big due to a sustained press effort, which gives you an indication of the type of songs these are. Radio-friendly, plenty of jangly riffs, and they never really outstay their welcome. You're Crazy is the best of the non-commercially successful songs. I really enjoyed it - the music knows what it is, and doesn't try too hard or to be anything more. Axl Rose sounds fantastic, and Slash is brilliant.
4
Jul 05 2024
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The Visitors
ABBA
The stand-out tracks are Head Over Heels, Slipping Through My Fingers, and The Day Before You Came, which I know from the Greatest Hits album. Can't say any of the other songs jumped out at me. Difficult to rate this album - I like the overall vibe, sort of moody and spooky, but it isn't classic ABBA. Nowhere near a 5, but a 3 feels harsh.
4
Jul 08 2024
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Chelsea Girl
Nico
She has an incredibly distinctive voice but this is a bit of a slog. It all sounds the same. Novel and interesting at first, but dreary and repetitive by the end.
2
Jul 09 2024
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My Generation
The Who
My Generation is great but I definitely prefer their later stadium rock music. Not everyone's cup of tea but it is certainly distinctive. Much of this album simply fades away.
2
Jul 10 2024
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Fulfillingness' First Finale
Stevie Wonder
Innervisions was a bit better. Wow, Stevie Wonder was quite the artist - I will never not find his album run impressive. What a silly title though. Can't wait for Songs in the Key of Life.
This album largely passed me by - nothing stood out, but it was pretty joyous to listen to. A 'pop it on in the background, enjoy it' kind of album.
3
Jul 11 2024
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Fifth Dimension
The Byrds
Not as good as Younger than Yesterday, but still pleasant. Ends really strongly, Why and 2-4-2 Fox Trot were solid tracks. Nice enough, a bit uninspiring. A real 2.5 album. Inoffensive.
2
Jul 12 2024
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Cosmo's Factory
Creedence Clearwater Revival
Solid album. More uptempo than I was expecting - which is cracking. Who'll Stop The Rain is my favourite from the album. I think I undermarked the previous CCR album, which is slightly better than this.
5
Jul 15 2024
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Desperate Youth, Blood Thirsty Babes
TV On The Radio
Better than Dear Science. My main issue is that it sounds like a collection of demoes. Not cohesive of finished. Ambulance was horrendous. Overall too weird.
2
Jul 16 2024
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The Predator
Ice Cube
Really interesting album - his flow is smooth and the raps are really well-written. When Will They Shoot? and It Was A Good Day were the stand-outs. Minimal skits, and strong political messages.
4
Jul 17 2024
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Out of Step
Minor Threat
Punky and snappy but a bit too shouty. To the point where I didn't really know what was going on, if I'm honest.
2
Jul 18 2024
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Songs The Lord Taught Us
The Cramps
The psychobilly genre is not for me. I struggled to pinpoint why I didn't like this album, as it wasn't particularly long, or irritating, and the music and singing was just fine. I maybe found it uninspired - appreciate they started the type of music, but you can't force yourself to like something. Plus it is all far too long and repetitive.
2
Jul 19 2024
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Dance Mania
Tito Puente
I have a bit of a soft spot for this kind of music. Really evoked an atmosphere, and it sounds like the musicians had a real laugh making it. Standouts were El Cayuco and Mambo Gozon.
4
Jul 22 2024
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More Specials
The Specials
Still funky and relaxing but nothing compared to The Specials album. I always forget they are like a thoughtful Chas n Dave, I think I confuse them with other, more sombre bands.
3
Jul 23 2024
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Lazer Guided Melodies
Spiritualized
Ladies and Gentlemen... was pretty great; this is naff. It's pretty clear where they condensed and clarified their sound - too many turns down meaningless alleys, too many never-ending fades, emphasis of noise over melody. I get they are known for this, but the album is unrefined. For my #500, overall, rather disappointing. Tuneless signing works when the background stands out.
2
Jul 24 2024
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Suicide
Suicide
I greatly admire the effort they've gone to to frequently produce music that is utterly unlistenable. A real commitment. Frankie Teardrop was something else. Incredibly innovative for the time, bizarre but +1 for effort. Something different.
2
Jul 25 2024
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Talking With the Taxman About Poetry
Billy Bragg
I was ready to give this a 5. Greetings to the New Brunette, Ideology, Levi Stubb's Tears, and The Passion are brilliant. A well-crafted story, pitched very well with the music and guitar/mandolin. But the second half of the album isn't fantastic. He's not half political, and the same message repackaged provides diminishing returns.
The other album on the list so far with his involvement, Mermaid Avenue (with Wilco) is fantastic.
5 for the first half of the album, 3 for the rest of it. Cracking artist.
4
Jul 26 2024
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A Northern Soul
The Verve
A Northern Soul was good, the rest really rather dull. Everything sounded murmured through a tunnel. Not for me. Presume Urban Hymns is better.
2
Jul 29 2024
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Swordfishtrombones
Tom Waits
Listened twice as the first time I was baffled. I like it. The variety of musical styles is admirable - a real commitment to madness. Underground, and Swordfishtrombones are the best songs, and I only struggled with Frank's Wild Years (mercifully short). In fact, the majority of the songs on the album are 3 minutes or less - which is again impressively restrained. I don't think I can give it a 5, but this is weird and I like it.
4
Jul 30 2024
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Palo Congo
Sabu
Doesn't seem quite as old as it actually is. Not much more to say, too repetitive for me.
2
Jul 31 2024
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Run-D.M.C.
Run-D.M.C.
The simplicity of the beats helps to underscore the straightforward lyrics. A relic - however, very listenable. It's Like That, and Rock Box, are the best tracks. 3.5.
3
Aug 01 2024
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Porcupine
Echo And The Bunnymen
I've heard The Cutter a few times, very Beatles-inspired. The rest of the album doesn't do anything for me - it isn't pretentious, just a bit rote. Couldn't tell you anything about their previous album on the list, Crocodiles. This is music written to appeal. I prefer music with a meaning, or even music without meaning.
2
Aug 02 2024
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Wild Wood
Paul Weller
Incredibly solidly middle-of-the-road. I quite liked Shadow of the Sun and All The Pictures On The Wall, but not enough to save it from drudgery.
3
Aug 05 2024
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War
U2
Not a U2 fan, no matter how many albums I have to listen to. Joshua Tree is their best. Absolutely nothing jumped out at me, however I didn't find it irritating. Mildly inconvenient as an album.
2
Aug 06 2024
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The World is a Ghetto
War
Got into it the longer it went on - and it was certainly long. Four Cornered Room was the standout, I liked how it bopped along. Mildly enthused.
3
Aug 07 2024
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Peter Gabriel
Peter Gabriel
Again, one of the best 4-stars I've given. Moribund the Burgermeister, Solsbury Hill (of course), and Here Comes the Flood are the standouts. The middle of the album is a bit of a Slowburn, some Humdrum stuff in there to be absolutely fair. Makes you anticipate Waiting For the Big One to come right at the end, which, to be fair, it does, ends with a bang. I imagine at the time his songs were some excellent examples of Modern Love tracks - not sentimental, but well-written, clever, and I do really like his variety of instrumentation. Excuse Me for going on too long - solid 4 stars.
Down The Dolce Vita.
4
Aug 08 2024
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The Libertines
The Libertines
The Man Who Would Be King and Can't Stop Me Now are great. Trailblazing yes. Fascinating, but hard to get into, far too repetitive.
3
Aug 09 2024
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Machine Gun Etiquette
The Damned
Plan 9 Channel 7, and Love Song were my favourites. Good fun album, I like the breakdowns, and their way of starting songs without letting you know what's coming up.
4
Aug 12 2024
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Aqualung
Jethro Tull
Pleasantly surprised by this - I confused them with the Cornish comedian Jethro, so always presumed they were a bit of a blue band and never gave them a listen. I was going to dock a point for the spotify album including a 15 minute interview, but this didn't appear on the original release so they're off the hook.
Speaking of, some very cool and slick hooks, funky instrumentation, and I don't mind Ian Anderson's voice and woodwind skills. An easy 4.
Best songs: Aqualung, Wond'ring Aloud, and Locomotive Breath.
4
Aug 13 2024
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The United States Of America
The United States Of America
Quite challenging - it veered rapidly between morose and dull and irritating. Big miss for me.
1
Aug 14 2024
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Cut
The Slits
One the one hand, you can hear that it is different. Ambitious, the reggae style and influence is commendable. On the other hand, at times irritating and unfinished. Not for me. 2.5
2
Aug 15 2024
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Sometimes I Wish We Were An Eagle
Bill Callahan
Very cool, very different. Jim Cain, and Eid Ma Clack Shaw were a strong opening to the album, and Too Many Birds was nice. Like a more miserable, Sufjan Stevens, lyrically - he mentions zombies at one point too. I really didn't like the last track though, crushingly long and repetitive.
4
Aug 16 2024
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Mama Said Knock You Out
LL Cool J
Enjoyed his flow, lyrics, and the samples and beats. Scrapes a 3 for being pretty entertaining, but I'm in no rush to re-listen. Perhaps a better rapper than actor - only time will tell.
3
Aug 19 2024
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Odelay
Beck
Ah this is decent. Devil's Haircut, Derelict, and Ramshackle were my favourite tracks. I like the approach on the album, throwing in instruments wherever he likes. Keeps it interesting. His lyrics are often bizarre too.
4
Aug 20 2024
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The Gilded Palace Of Sin
The Flying Burrito Brothers
If ever there was a band that did not match their band name, this is it. Fairly repetitive country music - Sin City was good, I swear I've heard it before. Otherwise absolutely not notable, whatsoever.
2
Aug 21 2024
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Talking Timbuktu
Ali Farka Touré
I noticed that Ry Cooder helped out with this record - his work with the Buena Vista Social Club is exceptional, and I can't wait for that album to appear on this list.
But to this one - seems like Ry has a penchant for supporting relatively niche folk/regional music and translating it for a larger audience. This is a really, really decent album. Lasidan was my favourite track, but they do blend together somewhat, and it is a bit of a long album.
I have a soft spot for world music.
3
Aug 22 2024
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A Grand Don't Come For Free
The Streets
I'm with Graeme and the Yanks here - I really didn't enjoy this. Too abrupt and caustic. Repetitive, his delivery is exactly the same for every song and I don't find his lyrics particularly interesting or entertaining.
Fit But Don't You Know It is fine, I suppose, but only because of nostalgia. +1 nostaliga points.
2
Aug 23 2024
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Penance Soiree
The Icarus Line
A bit irritating that it isn't on spotify. I think other bands did this kind of music more successfully - not sold. Almost like proto-modern psychadelic/noise rock. Big Sleep was my favourite track. I don't think the vocalist has range.
2
Aug 26 2024
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The Trinity Session
Cowboy Junkies
Really, really dreary. I didn't enjoy the vocals at all, and this is one of the most forgettable albums on the list.
1
Aug 27 2024
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Beauty And The Beat
The Go-Go's
Quite nice this. Can't Stop the World and This Town were my stand-outs, and They Got the Beat is pretty standard. I wasn't aware Belinda Carlisle was the vocalist. Some incredibly solid New Wave.
4
Aug 28 2024
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So Much For The City
The Thrills
I don't mind the US inspiration - would have sworn they were American - but it is all just a bit dull. One of George W. Bush's favourite songs is Say It Ain't So; potentially the best song on the album. Completely passed me by first time around, no interest in listening to it again.
2
Aug 29 2024
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Call of the Valley
Shivkumar Sharma
Zero frame of reference. I enjoy a concept album, and this appears to be a concept album. Sitars are wild instruments - so flexible tonally, and yet absolutely only able to be used in this genre of music. Some of the drumming was intense.
3
Aug 30 2024
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Guero
Beck
Favourite Beck album thus far. Just really cool - only one or two songs don't really do anything for me (e.g., Hell Yes) but the run before that, Missing, Black Tambourine, and Earthquake Weather, is amazing.
I enjoy music where the artist is clearly having a blast creating it - loads of experimentation, riffing on prior tracks, some weird lyrics, and his singing isn't even that bad. That he has the freedom to do what he wants is beneficial if he's in this creative state of mind.
5
Sep 02 2024
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Don't Stand Me Down
Dexys Midnight Runners
Not quite what I expected - lots of violin, but not a lot else. Uninspired and long, and I wasn't a fan of the vocals.
I think they tried to replicate Come on Eileen on nearly every song.
2
Sep 03 2024
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Heartbreaker
Ryan Adams
Set out to make a listenable record. I didn't read too closely into the lyrics, but they felt mild. Music is absolutely alright.
Utterly fine, which is not praise.
2
Sep 06 2024
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Country Life
Roxy Music
I listened to the whole thing and can't remember any of it.
2
Sep 09 2024
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Traffic
Traffic
First time hearing of this band but it feels like I already know them - their music is a really cool mix of genres, and the album feels really balanced. Pearly Queen, No Time To Leave, and Shanghai Noodle Factory were good. It never got boring, despite being on the long side.
4
Sep 10 2024
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...The Dandy Warhols Come Down
The Dandy Warhols
Not If You Were The Last Junkie On Earth was cracking - love the drums. Keeps on moving.
Decent album overall.
4
Sep 11 2024
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You've Come a Long Way Baby
Fatboy Slim
A real pioneer - what I enjoyed most is he never lets you get bored of a song. Very rarely is the same 4 bars repeated, there's always some slight difference, introduction of extra beats or instruments, or manipulation of the vocals.
The album starts very strong, does meander a bit, but then comes back on form towards the end. I knew all the main tracks, but none of the ones I didn't know particularly resonated with me.
I think my hesitation about giving it a 5 means it must be a 4.
4
Sep 12 2024
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Fetch The Bolt Cutters
Fiona Apple
Appreciate this is a very good album - one of the best "modern" ones we've had on the list. Not quite for me, but I did enjoy listening.
4
Sep 13 2024
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What's Going On
Marvin Gaye
Lovely voice, but I kept waiting for a song to grab my attention. Basically, I was looking for, Let's Get It On, and all of the songs sort of sounded like they'd transition to it.
2