184
Albums Rated
3.71
Average Rating
17%
Complete
905 albums remaining
Rating Distribution
Rating Timeline
Taste Profile
1950s
Favorite Decade
Jazz
Favorite Genre
UK
Top Origin
Cheerleader
Rater Style ?
26
5-Star Albums
0
1-Star Albums
Breakdown
By Genre
By Decade
By Origin
Albums
You Love More Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Kollaps
Einstürzende Neubauten
|
4 | 1.9 | +2.1 |
|
The Dreaming
Kate Bush
|
5 | 2.96 | +2.04 |
|
Heavy Weather
Weather Report
|
5 | 2.99 | +2.01 |
|
Life's Too Good
The Sugarcubes
|
5 | 3.06 | +1.94 |
|
Modern Kosmology
Jane Weaver
|
5 | 3.08 | +1.92 |
|
The Sensual World
Kate Bush
|
5 | 3.17 | +1.83 |
|
Chicago Transit Authority
Chicago
|
5 | 3.2 | +1.8 |
|
Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This)
Eurythmics
|
5 | 3.24 | +1.76 |
|
Peter Gabriel 3
Peter Gabriel
|
5 | 3.29 | +1.71 |
|
Sunday At The Village Vanguard
Bill Evans Trio
|
5 | 3.32 | +1.68 |
You Love Less Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Fleet Foxes
Fleet Foxes
|
2 | 3.43 | -1.43 |
|
The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars
David Bowie
|
3 | 4.26 | -1.26 |
|
Apocalypse 91… The Enemy Strikes Black
Public Enemy
|
2 | 3.23 | -1.23 |
|
Forever Changes
Love
|
2 | 3.22 | -1.22 |
|
Q: Are We Not Men? A: We Are Devo
Devo
|
2 | 3.13 | -1.13 |
|
Chemtrails Over The Country Club
Lana Del Rey
|
2 | 3.05 | -1.05 |
Artists
Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Beatles | 4 | 4.5 |
| Kate Bush | 2 | 5 |
5-Star Albums (26)
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Popular Reviews
Jane Weaver
5/5
I can't completely explain it but I love this album. I love her voice and vocal variety. I love the drums and precussion. I love the ambient sounds layered over the synthesizers and other instruments. There's a repetitious vibe that makes it stick but so many other disconnected things happening that it keeps my interest (i.e. singing birds, violins, syncopated shaker, etc.) I'm glad I crossed paths with this album.
3 likes
Lana Del Rey
2/5
I love female vocalists. I love the minimalist instrumentation. I love the breathy whispering but it should not have a hall reverb or doubled lead vocal. I enjoy Lana's voice when it's not over processed. I hate the canned beats and ambiance pads with an intimate song. The song "Dance Till We Die" is probably my favorite but it doesn't save this collection of tunes. This is a producer failure. Lana should get a do over and let Rick Nowels do the whole thing and keep herself and Jack Antonoff out of it.
2 likes
David Bowie
5/5
This one of my favorite Bowie albums. David Bowie's voice with Robert Fripp's lead guitar and Brian Eno on synthesizer. Tony Visconti as production engineer ties it all together. It may not be solid for everyone but I connected with this album when I was young and it stuck. This album has a personality as it shifts from Fripp to Eno while still remaining all Bowie.
2 likes
Einstürzende Neubauten
4/5
Experimental industrial punk... I love it. I have their second album which is very similar but not as raw. It has the beginning of song structure. This is still great. Trying anything and everything to see works.
2 likes
All Ratings
ZZ Top
5/5
One of my favorite albums. Dusty and Frank driving the rhythm under Billy's melodic blues guitar and vocals. Very formula based and gets a lot of criticism for sounding the same. Billy's guitar tone and vocal growl make all the difference. The song "Thug" shows they can get out of their formulaic comfort zone with effects and Dusty popping a syncopated rhythm. Not the best song but just proof that they aren't a one trick pony. It really doesn't matter as I can easily pass the time grooving along to every sing on this album, and suddenly it's over. Great music for long drives and just chilling with friends. This is the blues power trio not prog rock (another favorite genre of mine.) I'll gladly listen to this album over and over, just to discover something new and a renewed appreciation for the group.
The Afghan Whigs
4/5
Decent grunge era entry. I wasn't familiar with this band or any of the songs. I'll need to give another listen to properly place it. I liked "My Curse" with guest vocalist Marcy Mays the best or at least most interesting to my ears at first listen. I can see enjoying this record but don't feel like I missed out on it back in the '90s.
Violent Femmes
5/5
Another one of my favorites from a "power" trio. This is raw folk-punk that is driven by Victor DeLorenzo's straight forward drum parts and Gordon Gano's rhythm guitar. Gordon's whiney vocals give the color but Brian Ritchie is core to their success (in my opinion.) He is an extremely gifted bass player and bumped up the energy and interest in every song. He also plays the xylophone in "Gone Daddy Gone" which claws that pull you into the hook. This album is full of teen angst and sexual frustration which makes it less accessible to the main stream but it's real even if you don't want to say it out loud. I love this album as a reminder of my awkward youth even if it doesn't apply to adult life or current mindset.
The Beach Boys
3/5
I love the Beach Boys. Summer, surfing, and hot rods. There are a few favorites on this album but not my favorites BBs album. I did struggle listening to this in the middle of October. Beach Boys music is fun in the sun summertime music for me. This album has great studio musicians from the L.A. "Wrecking Crew". It's been labeled as a transition album for the BBs because it includes more of Brian Wilson's ballads... which is probably why it falls to average. Tangy guitars and falsetto harmonies is what I love but their ballads are mediocre whine fests. I wish could rate this one higher but please "Help Me, Ronda!" this album doesn't touch my heart 'cause I just wanna "Dance, Dance, Dance".
R.E.M.
4/5
I forgot how much I loved this album. Every song is interesting and stands on its own. I would have given this a five star rating but Michael Stipes vocals can get a bit tiring. Great song progressions and prodiction. There is always a lot of nuances to the instrumentation and sound scape.
Lana Del Rey
2/5
I love female vocalists. I love the minimalist instrumentation. I love the breathy whispering but it should not have a hall reverb or doubled lead vocal. I enjoy Lana's voice when it's not over processed. I hate the canned beats and ambiance pads with an intimate song. The song "Dance Till We Die" is probably my favorite but it doesn't save this collection of tunes. This is a producer failure. Lana should get a do over and let Rick Nowels do the whole thing and keep herself and Jack Antonoff out of it.
Miles Davis
5/5
I'll gladly listen to this album again. I'm not a big Miles Davis fan but I love Coltrane, Adderley, Evans, Cobb, and of course the bassist, Paul Chambers. Wynton Kelly on piano does a nice job on "Freddie the Freeloader" but Bill Evans is the comp chord king and his solos just flow like water. I love the conversations between the two saxophonists and Miles' trumpet. No question; this album belongs on this list even if you don't like or understand jazz. This is a master class in cool jazz.
The Who
4/5
My Generation - The Ox bass solo. Legendary moment in time for the rock bassist.
'nuff said.
Solange
3/5
Solange has a beautiful like her sister Beyoncé but I don't think this is a must listen to album. It got some nice r&b soul but mixed with hip hop anger just doesn't quite fit for me. There are some strong topic here... love the black pride... not digging the "all my niggers in the world" call out like it's okay. The backing track instrumentation and the canned beats are uninteresting to me which should make them easy to convert to elevator music. Not sure why Rolling Stone magazine rank included it in there top 500 albums. This reminds me of just another kid with really good connections. I can listen to this album but it would quickly become background.
Funkadelic
4/5
I love this album and hate this album. George Clinton and Funkadelic are a great collection of musicians. "Maggot Brain" is a ten minute self-indulgent guitar solo. Eddie Hazel is out of control. I love the emotion he presents but I hate it because its not my guitar solo. Haters are just jealous. This is psychedelic album with a funk vibe. Difficult to endure in concert format but a pleasure to listen to in a chill, listening room setting. Very dark and angry so not for everyone but I love the emotion and relevance to today even though it was recorded over 50 years ago.
Fatboy Slim
4/5
This is not for casual listening or the concert goers... this is dance club / festival music to get people moving around. It typically criticize tunes for having canned beats but tjis is where they belong. Norman Quentin Cook aka Fatboy Slim is a genius electronica dance club DJ and producer. The songs are long but the constant sense of ADHD due to constant introduction of new content while keeping a thread of repeation that would drive you nuts if not distrated by the crowd if out of control dancers. I only counted 102 times the word "f**k!ng" was used in the song "In Heaven"... repeation to the level of uncomfortable but exactly as intended. This is template for anyone wanting to produce dance music... keep them on the floor.
The Who
3/5
I love this album for various reasons and find it musically interesting but it's not my favorite combination of rock and "opera". Theoretically meets the criteria for a good show but overall feels flat to me. I love "Pinball Wizard" and "Go To The Mirror" as stand alone rock tunes. This is a great album but can't rank it above a 3 since I wouldn't typically listen to it front to back... and I not sure I'd want to see it performed live.
Don McLean
4/5
Don McLean is a story teller. I love the imagery in his lyrics. Great vocals, piano and/ or guitar playing on every song. This album makes sense to me to include in this list as a perfect example of the singer/songwriter genre. "Vincent" is the song that sticks in my memory excluding the obvious "Anerican Pie". I love the hook created by the chord progression and rhythm. "American Pie" is a long song that doesn't become monotonous due to the engaging lyrics, emotion change in harmonic context, and the sing-a-long chorus. I rated it a four because it's not a go to album for me but it is a great reference album for writing music.
Public Enemy
2/5
Classic hip hop house party music. I have to be in the right space to enjoy these tunes. Since I'm not, it just sounds like every '90s hip hop record except none of my favorite songs or artists. I have zero nostalgic connections to this record. Public Enemy had better songs on other albums... "Fight The Power".
Weather Report
5/5
This was my first introduction to Jaco Pastorius. I love this album. This is an important recording due to it's commercial success and many folks intro into fusion jazz. It contains elements of jazz, latin, rock, and soul music. I definitely have a sentimental connection to this album and have listened to it many time since my introduction in the early '80s. I listen to this as great musicians interacting with each other and no one artist is better than the next.
SAULT
4/5
First, I'm not sure any (or very few) recordings from the most recent (say seven) years should be included in a must listen to before you die list. I think an album needs to be tested by time to reach this status. I do appreciate being introduced to new music that are hitting some current hot topics. I wasn't very impressed with the first few songs... musak with a drum beat. As I listen to the rest, I did find a few songs with a little more groove to them but most of the songs felt empty and unfinished. I did like the song "Bow" but it sounded too different from the rest of the album. I want to hear more of Michael Kiwanuka's music. I have mixed feelings about this album. It would probably be better if half the songs were cut. Overall it's still a better than average album. I'm between 3 and 4 but I give it a 4.
Nine Inch Nails
3/5
Love hate relationship here. I got this album when was first released. Most of this is noise but I do love "Closer" and "Hurt". I do have fond memories lustening to this album but I wouldn't want MY kids listening to it...LOL!! This one falls in the middle for me.
Prince
5/5
I don't have to listen to this album to know it's a five star album. This is a great soundtrack to a great musicians movie.
Brian Eno
3/5
I like this album but not very familiar with it. I can hear his influence on David Bowie, Robert Fripp, David Byrne, and Peter Gabriel... and vice versa. I'm more familiar with Brian as a producer and never got into his ambiance music. I love his creativity but lose interest with his excessive repetition (same issue with Robert Fripp). I'll need to listen to this album a few more times to get everything out of it but will rate it as average for the time being.
3/5
I love David Bowie. This is an essential glam-rock entry and worth a listen. Great musicians and production. "Ziggy Stardust" and "Suffragette City" popular favorites. "Five Years" is my least favorite. As much as I like this album, it is not my favorite David Bowie album. Three stars is the best for the overall album.
Iron Maiden
4/5
I love Iron Maiden. This is a great freshmen entry but not my favorite album. Mix of heavy metal and punk make this a great roadtrip album. The "list" doesn't include my favorite album, "Piece of Mind", but I'm glad to see the band represented.
Love
2/5
Love - a mostly forgotten psychedelic band from the sixties that most people never heard of. They sound like a beatnik and a hippie playing music at a Renaissance fair. I discovered them myself back in the '80s when I realized the Hooters song "She Comes In Colors" was a cover of a Love song. I like a number of the elements in their music but most of their songs don't have a hook and easily forgettable. Complex melodies and lyrics that you rarely find yourself singing along ... self-indulgent for the artist and the listener just has to wait until they're finished. I played "Maybe The People Would Be The Times Or Between Clark And Hilldale" and even though it was fun to play, our guitarist thought it rambled on and hedonistic....the guitarist, that's right, the guitarist. I do think this band is worth remembering and studying but not necessary for the casual listener to be forced to listen an entire album in one sitting. I want to like them more but I've already forgotten every song and couldn't name one (except the one I played) to even request a revisit. Lots of line but no hook will catch zero fish.
Elastica
3/5
Girl fronted punk band. Very kewl. I like this album and would listen to it again. By the late '90s this sound is nothing new. The band created two albums in their 9 years of existence. As much as I like this album, it doesn't stand out as a must listen to before I die qualifier. I'd love to be in a band like this and glad I was introduced to the group but it doesn't need to be here.
Willie Nelson
4/5
This album belongs on this list. Willie Nelson has such a distinctive voice and he's a great story teller. I love the variety of instruments even though still simple and light. This is a very well produced album. It is consistent with enough color to keep it interesting. Not my favorite genre or selection of Willie's music but fits my criteria for recommending music to others.
Black Sabbath
3/5
The record that launch a thousand garage bands. This and their second album "Paranoid" were required listening if you wanted to play in a rock band when I was a kid. Filled with power chords and riffs, these songs were like the standards everyone needed to know... or at least it seemed that way to 12 year old me. Not my favorite heavy metal records but worthy of giving a listen and studying. I enjoyed listening to this album end to end but it not one I would typically pick for a get together or road trip. You can put it in the archives for future analysis but most likely it won't be included on my mix tape.
Bert Jansch
3/5
Why have I never heard of Bert Jansch? This is a very good folk music album with some interesting guitar work. I wasn't in right head space to listen closely to this album. It seems a little rough but decent first album for an artist that recorded a string of solo albums over the years. This is not a favorite but definitely peaked my interest for his other albums and his work with his band Pentangle. I didn't recognize any of the songs but the instrumental song "Angie" has a familiar riff but I'm not sure where I've heard it. I plan to revisit this artist and album again.
Pink Floyd
5/5
It's been awhile since I listened to this album end to end. I listened to it on iTunes but hopefully with get a chance to listen to my vinyl copy this weekend. This album encapsulates all of what I love about Pink Floyd. Acoustic instruments, electric instruments, counter melodies, soundscapes, every musician bringing something special to the mix, etcetrea, etcetera. This is a collection of reference tracks to compare to other music. I didn't realize until listening to the entire album again that I love this album.
Q-Tip
3/5
This is an okay album. I don't connect to it and rap, even though good, are too much fir my liking. It starts to sound like a baseball card stuck in the spokes of a bicycle... cool at first but annoying after about 15 minutes.
I only listened to the album one time through and nothing stuck out as particularly impressive or interesting. I've put it on my list to give another listen but for now it seems just average.
4/5
I love this album. This is the first Kinks album I purchased on vinyl. I had a girlfriend name Vikki and loved playing "Victoria" even though it was a commentary about the British monarchy. I don't think this was a popular album here in the USA but I can picture this group of lads "Drivin' " around the Englush country side. I like their surfer reference ala the Beach Boys harmonies in the song "Australia". This is between a 4 and 5 for me but will leave it at 4 since I think the Kinks have better material on later albums.
Keith Jarrett
3/5
I acknowledge that Keith Jarrett is a talented and well accomplished musician. I love the back story of this album... gig from hell. I'm not sure I could sit through a concert of this new age style jazz but knowing it took place at 11:30PM after the opera might give it a different vibe. This is background music for a relaxing environment. I get the intellectual elements of this music but can't decide if it's actually interesting or worth talking about.... and I love talking about everything.
Culture Club
4/5
This is great album. I've never listened to it end to end but surprisingly recognized a number of the songs. This is a fun band to listen to and Boy George has very distinctive voice. I'd more likely purchase a "best of..." album by the Culture Club than individual albums but I enjoyed listening to this one. It didn't knock it out the park to get a five from me but this is a strong four star album.
The Youngbloods
3/5
I really enjoyed this album but don't remember one song between Friday (when I first listened to it) and this morning (listening to it again to remember if I liked it or not.)
I didn't grow up listening to the Youngbloods so I'm guessing it's a lack of familiarity. Very '60s production with vocal harmonies, catchy gimmicks, groovy beats, and electric piano. I need to listen to them more for that extra star but typical 60s band gets a 3 star rating from me.
CHIC
3/5
Good Times! Bernard Edwards is the bass player to know if want to play dance music. The song Good Times is a great song to get into the groove. I grew up listening to the C'est Chic album so Disco music has a place in my heart. I love the hits from this album but the deep cuts don't do too much for me. Like Culture Club, I'd prefer to have a Best of Album rather than the individual studio albums. This probably a condition of the industry pumping out album after album even if it's not all the artist's best work. I'm between 3 and 4 stars.
Adam & The Ants
3/5
Never listened to Adam Ant (or Adam & the Ants) much back in the 80s. As I listen to this album, I can't really explain it. I love the bass, the drums, and the guitar. Adam Ant.... hmmm... not so much. I can think of a number similar sounding artists that I love but I still don't connect with Adam Ant. I probably need to see him in concert to get a crowd sourced emotional connection to enjoy listening to him. The other reason I'm probably not a fan of his singing is because it reminds me of my own singing... LOL!
Wilco
3/5
I had friends that gushed over this band. I never listen enough to them to have an opinion. Know that I've listened to this album, my opinion about Wilco is... Meh. Very talented musicians, great chill vibe, a little folksie and a little edgy... know I get it, they sound like the Grateful Dead... but not quite. I could listen to this album over an over but it'll always leave just a dull impression. I could enjoy listening to Wilco while hanging out with friends at a summer festival, but I didn't hear anything that caught my attention to cause me to turn away from my friendly conversation or the book that I was reading while enjoying the nice sunny day. Basically, I wouldn't brave a cold or rainy day just to see Wilco.
Various Artists
4/5
Soundgarden
4/5
Great memories from the early 90s. Very heavy but I love the tones of each instrument. Very polished production for a grunge album. I'm not a big Chris Cornell fan but I do like his voice on this album. I think the processing on this album give it an ethereal sound but still heavy creating a sound balance. "Black Hole Sun" is one of my favorite songs. It's still just shy of a 5 star rating but pretty close.
Genesis
3/5
Genesis is a supergroup of great musicians. This album is a production. I could listen to this music all day but difficult to swollow in dedicated listening session. This music requires a full theatrical event to be fully appreciated and to keep the audiences attention. Parts of this album make it a five star recording while others barely deserve 2 stars. This is a difficult album for me to rate because I love art rock, the musicianship, and the composition but at the end of the day nothing sticks with me. Their following album "The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway" is very similiar in style and form. The difference being it sticks and I'm singing the title song right now as I write this. I have a lot of admiration for this album, it's just not my favorite work of Genesis or Peter Gabriel.
The Velvet Underground
3/5
I like the bass and guitar tones and interplay. The first half of the record is very sleepy and I thought I was listening to a collection of lullabies. Lou Reed's voice is very identifiable but not my favorite. I prefer their drummer Maureen's voice as heard on the last two tracks. Nothing stuck out as a must hear and share with the world but I could see this being played as background music. I'm between 3 and 4. I'll probably revisit this album since I've only ever listened to it this one time in my life but I should give it another chance on another day.
The Cardigans
4/5
This is a fun album. I love Nina Persson's voice and Magnus Sveningsson's bass playing. I'm only familar with the Cardigan tunes played on the radio. Even though I wasn't familiar with most of these tunes, I felt connected. "Lovefool" was actually the only song I recall having heard before. Well... except for "Ironman" which I knew all the words. I love when someone covers an iconic tune from a different genre and pulls it off. This one falls in between 4 and 5 but I'm going to remain conservative since this was my first listen to the entire album. I will add this to the basslines I should learn and revisit this album again.
The The
2/5
80s experimental post-punk something or other. I have this album on vinyl somewhere. I got it as a promotional copy when working at a record store when the album was released. My brother thought it was great... lots horns and recording gimmicks popular at the time. I didn't play this album very often. It's too all over the place and drum machine quirky rhythms. Not very organic ir natural. There are some neat concepts and gimmicjs but too many in one place. I don't like Matt Johnson's voice so I quickly disconnect. It's not as bad as I remember but I still don't like it.
Run-D.M.C.
3/5
Classic drum machine beats and raps. This is a fun reminder of when rap was fun. Boomboxes and break dancing at the bus stop while waiting for the bus. DJ loops and scratching in its earliest form. Very gimmicky and sophomoric but I still love it. Only 3 stars because I like their later work better and preferred the Fat Boys human beat box during this era.
The La's
4/5
I liked this album but don't remember the La's. I know their song "There She Goes" covered by Sixpence None The Richer.
Other than that I've never heard any of these songs. I don't know that anything is outstanding but I like it.
Joy Division
3/5
I love Peter Hook's bass playing. This is great punk album but I wasn't in the right head space. The overall album was rather depressing but I know I could enjoy it under the right circumstances. It's still not an album with a great "wow" factor but just raw underground night club music.
Ray Charles
4/5
This is a great nostalgic album. I love the big band sound at the beginning and smooth jazz feel with full orchestra during the end. I love Ray's voice and piano playing. This is not a record I'd play at a party or on a road trip but I love the compositions and full instrumentation. I'm amazed at the great sound and production knowing what they had to work with in the studio back in the day. This essentially a live performance and I love it.
Talking Heads
3/5
I've always been hit or miss with the Talking Heads. I never listened to this entire album in a single sitting. It sits between 3 and 4 for me. I love Tina's bass playing. She's basic with a nice groove. I'll listen to the album again and probably bump up my appreciation but we'll hang on 3 stars because I only had a couple aha moments. Most notably is the frettless sounding (mostly chorus effect) bass line on "Artists Only". I liked the drum and bass groove on "Warning Sign" even though very basic. Beyond that "Take Me The River" and "Big Country" were the only songs I'd been previously introduced and memorable.
LCD Soundsystem
3/5
I didn't get to listen to this album in its entirety. I do like electronic music and how the sounds and rhythms are combined. I like the vocals but they don't always seem to fit. This is definitely an album that I need to be in the right head space to enjoy. I'll probably revisit this album at a later date but I don't think it's a necessity.
The B-52's
4/5
This is another favorite but not quite a 5 star album. It hits most of my criteria but not an album I'd play over and over. I just don't love it that much.
Hole
4/5
I never listened to this album until now. I vehemently avoid any Courtney Love music primarily based on media influence of the time. I really liked this album and want to give it another listen when time permits. I do like the musicians she surrounded herself with through the years but never gave her the time of day. I'm sorry I missed this one from back in the day but I was also at the beginning of my relationship with my wife at this time so my music listening opportunities were influenced by different motivations.
The Beach Boys
4/5
This is a great album. It starts to dig into Brian Wilson's psyche and show maturity as a composer. I prefer the sunshine, cars, and beaches of the earlier Beach Boys but I appreciate where the boys wanted to go. I also love the production of this album with the Wrecking Crew group of studio musicians.
Taylor Swift
4/5
Taylor is a great story teller. Her music is very accessible but can drift into the background not holding my attention. I like the production of this album.
Quicksilver Messenger Service
3/5
I love the Bo Diddly song "Who Do You Love" but this is jam band overkill. This is a fun band party vibe but unforgettable. I could probably listen to this album again and pick out a few "kewl" moments but I wouldn't replay it for enjoyment. I don't hate it but I understand why I'd never heard of this record. It drifted off into obscurity and there it should have remained. It's between a 2 and 3 but I can see myself recording something like this in the garage with my drinking buddies so I'll bump it up to 3.
Peter Tosh
4/5
I was just talking to someone about this album. Back in the '80s, I worked at local record store. A young girl came into store one day looking for Reggae music. She just got back from Spring break and fell in love with the Reggae her friends were playing but she didn't know any of the artists. I recommended Bob Marley, Bunny Wailer, and Peter Tosh (this album). She came back the next day crying. Apparently, what she had heard was UB40. Ah..Ha ha haaa.
I think this is a great album and would recommend it to anyone looking for Reggae.
Def Leppard
4/5
This is a fun album. Well produced and good head banging for young teens. It's a bit repetitious in style but great for radio or a DJ picking out a few tunes at an event. I rank this between 3 and 4. It's very commercial and easily accessible to the masses. So I give it 4 for being a smart production. "Foolin'" is my favorite as it was always a crowd pleaser at school dances back in the day.
Bad Brains
3/5
I remember this band and album but never listen to it until today. This would have been my jam back in the day. Today, it's a bit all over the place. I like HR's vocals most of time but they don't seem to fit over the music. He leans toward a whiny and nasal sound that may have been popular (or accessible to us whiny, nasal dudes) but it's rather annoying. I think the musician are great but don't think this the producer's best work. Ron Saint Germain numerous artists with success but this album doesn't make it for me. It could have been better. I'm still surprised that I never listened to them before... my friends have failed me.
David Bowie
4/5
I first found this album in 2021 but probably haven't listened to it since. This is a great album and has all the weird elements that I love about Bowie. David Bowie produced with help of Tony Visconti is a great combo. Bassist duties being shared by Gail Ann Dorsey and Tony Levin is another reason for personal bias toward more stars. This album needs to get back in my music rotation. I don't think this album got the necessary playtime here in the USA to get the love it deserves. This one is between a 4 and 5 but my lack of familiarity causes it to fall to 4 stars.
Kate Bush
5/5
I love Kate Bush.
Fleet Foxes
2/5
I usually like this style of music. Not today. I'm not impressed.
U2
4/5
Not my favorite U2 album but I still enjoy these tunes. I remeber getting this album on cassette when it came out. It has some good vibe attached to it. My band from the mid 2000s covered "One" and I still like how we interpreted that tune. I haven't listened to this album recently (I don't have a cassette player in my car anymore) but I remember all these songs. Bono's vocals can be annoying but it's fun to sing along and annoy those around me. I can say this band is awesome but they are consistent and found a sound that is all their own and easily identifiable. The production on their earlier albums was rough (which I liked) but I think this album was well produced and fit the era very well... maybe a bit overproduced and commercial but I still enjoy this album.
Les Rythmes Digitales
2/5
Fun record. I couldn't listen to it in its entirety. A bit too repetitious and random. This would be great for a club if the DJ called out sick. I might like this better if I wasn't trying to work while listening to it. Overall nothing clicked to engage with the vibe being laid down.
Simon & Garfunkel
3/5
I should have this album in my vinyl collection but don't. S&G are nice for a casual listen while hanging out with the family. There are a few favorites "America" and "Hazy Shade...". I feel this album falls in the middle of the road. It has some interesting production ideas; some that work and others that are just weird. I like this album overall but nothing that stirs my soul.
Prince
4/5
Released in 1982... What?
The hits off this album are timeless but many of the deep cut are definitely 80s synth pop. This is well produced album with Prince playing most of the instruments. I admire his talent but when found something interesting he over does it. You can here a lot of the soundscapes that eventually made Purple Rain such a great album but here I feel he was still figuring out how to use the electronic precussion and synth pads.
Moby Grape
3/5
I've heard of Moby Grape but can't recall ever listening to them. I do like the psychedelic rock vibes but loose interest when they go country... and I like country music, just not what they're playing. Great bass lines and drum parts but I understand why they got lost in the shadow of Jefferson Airplane. I do want to listen to more of their catalog but probably don't need to hear an entire album anytime soon.
The Rolling Stones
3/5
I enjoyed this album. Some fun slide guitar parts and memorable tunes, but nothing that makes what to jump up and dance. Good background music at the local drinking hole.
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
3/5
I like Neil Young and the band Crazy Horse; both together and separately. This is an okay album but nothing earth shattering. I'm not sure why this album needs to be here. Neil has a vast catalog and I guess any of his albums could fall into the group but not necessarily be anything more than exposure to Neil Young and his rock and roll side. Sounds like Neil Young.... meh.
Sly & The Family Stone
3/5
I didn't have time for a thorough listen but I really like Larry Graham's bass playing and Sly Stone's voice. "Family Affair" is a favorite. I love the beginning of this album but started losing interest after the title song. Really didn't like "Runnin' Away".
2/5
Fun record but very novel and annoying. This was great when I was 9 and wanting to pester everyone in the house. Punk, techno, surf, bubblegum pop... Devo is the musical equivalent to pop-ups ads. They've got elements of music I like but excessive and unnecessary.
John Martyn
4/5
I really enjoyed this album. I wished I'd heard of him before yesterday. This is the type of stuff I used to listen to regularly as a teen. I see he's worked with many of my favorites. My younger self would have liked the experimental vibes of this album. I'm old and cranky now so it's less interesting but still enjoyable. The main reason this isn't a 5 star is because there's no emotional connection and too dated to establish one. Great production for the time and quailty musicians. Glad to meet you John Martyn. I'll stick your card in my rolodex.
Bill Evans Trio
5/5
Johnny Cash
3/5
I like this recording. I'm not big on live performance albums but this style is interesting considering the captive audience. I preferred the "At Folsom Prison" album and sure why both need to be on the list. I'm also not sure why none of his studio albums made the list. I love the songs and respect the recording techniques required to produce this album but it's just a Cash and company greatest hit.
Metallica
3/5
I love Heavy Metal and Metallica. I love Michael Kamen and musical arrangements. I love Orchestra Music. This mix of genres and instrumentation is fun and entertaining. I would probably enjoy this recording more if I'd actually seen it performed live. I have no connection to this album and it's nothing really new. Overall, this is just meh. It's a kind of so what... sort of like Disney creating all their cartoon classics into live action movies... I don't hate it but I don't need it either.
Franz Ferdinand
4/5
I'm struggling to rank this album. I enjoy listening to this album. Clean production. The bass and drums are straight forward with some fun little flourishes. Not a big fan of his voice but it's accessible to sing along. Even though I like the style, I think it's too much of the same and somewhat tiresome after awhile. On the other hand, the sameness defines their sound which I admire. I'll lean to the high side and give it 4 stars.
Louis Prima
3/5
Louis and Keely are fun to sing-a-long with.
Scatting and nonsense lyrics are the best when goofing around on a lazy day.
Stevie Wonder
4/5
This was the first Stevie Wonder LP I ever owned. I love this music. It keeps me grooving, even the slower ballads. Caught between 4 and 5. Making it a four only because not ever song touches me with the same enthusiasm.
Jane Weaver
5/5
I can't completely explain it but I love this album. I love her voice and vocal variety. I love the drums and precussion. I love the ambient sounds layered over the synthesizers and other instruments. There's a repetitious vibe that makes it stick but so many other disconnected things happening that it keeps my interest (i.e. singing birds, violins, syncopated shaker, etc.) I'm glad I crossed paths with this album.
Big Black
3/5
I love punk rock but I'm not connecting with this record. It's fun and angry but nothing sticking during this listening review. It's well produced and maybe that's the disconnect; I want more raw guitars and drums. There's some studio techniques used that dress up the "punk". I'll have to visit this one another day.
Def Leppard
4/5
Loved this album back in the day. Anthem rock at its best. "Love Bites" and "Armageddon It" are favorites. Maybe a bit over processed and gimmicky but it was all good fun.
David Bowie
4/5
This is musically a great album. I wish more of these songs hit the prime rotation. The second side is a little slower and moody but still some good stuff.
Small Faces
4/5
Itchykoo Park is my Small Faces go to. I was not familiar with this album. I like this 60s vibe and playing on this album. The "concept" album narrative is okay at first but I think it took up too much time away from the actual music. Put it in the liner notes and I'll follow along if I feel the story line is necessary to follow along. Too much talk.
King Crimson
4/5
❤️ King Crimson. Greg Lake is one of my favorite bass players... and his singing ain't bad either. Very experimental and progressive. The drums on this album are killer, too. I love the energy and dynamics delivered here.
Stan Getz
4/5
Great jazz album. This is almost a 5 but isn't because it fades into the background and loses my attention. This is on my "list" of guitar music that I want to learn. Astrud Gilberto's vocals are chill and pleasant.
Electric Light Orchestra
4/5
ELO is one of my wife's favorite group and this is an album she grew up listen to. The radio played hits are all favorites of mine and the less familiar tunes were easy for me to connect with.
Bob Dylan
3/5
Bob Dylan is a great songwriter but I struggle listening to him in large doses. Fun guitar and harmonica parts. Cleaver lyrics and interesting stories. Classic folk/blues.
My Bloody Valentine
2/5
There are some interesting things going on here but mostly sounds like repetitive garage echoing in a trash can. I definitely need to be in the mood to listen to this but would prefer it in the background ... which would mean I wouldn't be lustening to it any way. I want to listen to this again with a more production focused ear to see if there is anything worth keeping or determine if I thought there was any hope of saving anything from this album. This is definitely not a "must listen to" album but I give a two in hopes that there is something experimentally interesting that could be improved upon. That said I could believe a second listen may confirm the masters need to be shredded in order to save future potential listeners.
David Bowie
5/5
This one of my favorite Bowie albums. David Bowie's voice with Robert Fripp's lead guitar and Brian Eno on synthesizer. Tony Visconti as production engineer ties it all together. It may not be solid for everyone but I connected with this album when I was young and it stuck. This album has a personality as it shifts from Fripp to Eno while still remaining all Bowie.
Derek & The Dominos
4/5
I actually didn't have time to listen to this album during the week. I love this album and have played it multiple time since my teens. It's not my favorite "Eric Clapton" album but always enjoyed listening to it.
Beatles
4/5
This was my first cassette tape of music that the older kids listened to. I love the randomness and variety of songs. As I've gotten older, I've realized a number of these songs were just slapped together as the band was beginning to come unglued and did not "Come Together" as the lead song would imply. This is 5 on all counts except that I think they could have done better.
George Michael
4/5
I'm not sure how to comment on this album. I do like it and understand the controversy about it more so now being a parent. I have good memories of hanging with friends while listening to this album. Many favorites played on the radio and in the clubs.
Metallica
5/5
This is the one album that both my wife and I turn up the volume. It very commercial, but well produced. This is one album that I can still listen to over and over. I just connect.
Norah Jones
4/5
I love this album. Norah has a great voice and I really enjoy listening to this recording.
Sly & The Family Stone
4/5
This is probably a 4.5 for me. I love this album. It's not perfect, but still one of my top 100. I think Sly is great band leader; he gets everyone involved with the vocals and instrumental features.
The Who
5/5
I never like "Live" albums due to the excessive crowd noise. This album is the exception. John Entwistle has great tone and wo derful bass lines beyond what's heard on the studio recordings. I loved these songs before hearing this album, but these recordings took it one step further.
N.E.R.D
3/5
Never heard this band before. This wasn't bad. I like the vocals and overall production. I'd listen to them again, but probably wouldn't go out of my way.
LL Cool J
3/5
I listened and enjoyed, but closely enough to comment.
The Human League
4/5
Lou Reed
3/5
I'm not a fan of Lou Reed's "singing" but he's got a great band. I love what's going on behind the vocals.
Booker T. & The MG's
4/5
I love this album. Booker T's organ playing and Steve Cropper's guitar playing. This is the Stax sound that backed up many great artists and songs. This album has a very dated sound and jam band vibe that can drift off into background. For that reason, it is not a five but it definitely has historic significance making it a logical choice to be included on this list.
Kate Bush
5/5
I just listen to this album a few weeks ago. I love this album and Kate Bush in general. I love the mixture of traditional and contemporary music. Great story telling and very emotional.
Peter Gabriel
5/5
Another favorite. Probably my favorite Peter Gabriel album. "Biko", "Games Without Frontiers", "Intruder", "I Don't Remember"... all killer songs. Actually, I love them all... I probably played this album too many times as a kid. Great production, percussion, musicians. This an easy 5 for me.
Beastie Boys
4/5
Fun album of my youth. Complete nonsense but still fun.
Elton John
4/5
The United States Of America
3/5
Interesting album. Very psychedelic and late 60s vibe. I'm conflicted about investigating them further since I'd never heard of before last Friday and they never did any beyond this one album. I love other bands of this genre and era but I feel indifferent about this group. They have already begun to fade into obsurity in my little world.
The Replacements
3/5
Michael Kiwanuka
3/5
I enjoyed this album. I only listened to the first couple songs then it faded into the background.
Yes
4/5
I've enjoyed this album since my youth. I love Steve Howe's guitar playing
Van Morrison
4/5
Bad Company
4/5
Megadeth
3/5
I bought this album recently. I listened to a variety of heavy metal when I was younger but never got into Megadeath. I got it to listen to the basslines of a couple specific songs. I enjoyed listening to it but didn't connect to it. I probably would have liked it better when I was younger, but my friends listened to Ozzy and Iron Maiden so that's where I spent my time. This is your average HM record.
Dr. John
4/5
Dr. John is a favorite of mine. I love New Orleans jazz piano with a bluesy rock feel. This is not my favorite of his but probably the first one I heard when I was a kid; thanks to my older siblings.
Guns N' Roses
4/5
Fun album from my youth. Lots of memorable songs. I don't have this in my current playlist because I think it's been overplayed, but it should still be acknowlegded for its staying power.
Blondie
4/5
I think this the first time I've heard this entire album. I've always loved the radio hits. The production is rough, very '80s, and still inspiring today.
Janet Jackson
4/5
Not as memorable as her album "Control", but I love the effort. Strong 80s vibe and I dig the production. It starts of with a strong and relevant social commentary, but I don't think the masses wanted to hear her message or mature enough to understand it. The balance of the album is classic Janet dance club mixes.
The Cramps
4/5
The Cramps are great but this is not my favorite album. Great music for all us punks and creepy kids. I love the raw, surf music mixed with catchy lyrics that you "sing" even if you don't want to.
Soft Machine
3/5
I love the musicianship but this album irritates me. I prefer their album Bundles with guitarist Allan Holdsworth.
Korn
4/5
I like Korn. Not familiar with album but it went well with my "I'm working here"-vibe today.
The Chemical Brothers
4/5
I like this album but not sure why. It got a lot of fun things going on. It reminds of a video game background.
The Sugarcubes
5/5
I love Björk... her voice and quirkiness. I have listened to the Sugar Cubes before and love the mix of pop, punk, and techno. This is a fun album.
U2
4/5
"Sunday Bloody Sunday" is one of my favorite U2 songs. This album was first my introduction to U2. I always enjoy listening to this album.
Bee Gees
3/5
I like the Bee Gees and their musical compositions. I knew the first song but was less familiar with the others. I don't enjoy Robin's vocals and he should stick to harmony.
Todd Rundgren
4/5
The Cure
4/5
Van Morrison
3/5
Taylor Swift
4/5
Lauryn Hill
4/5
The Byrds
3/5
Mike Oldfield
4/5
Goldfrapp
4/5
I love Goldfrapp. I don't listen to them enough. Alison has a wonderful voice.
Led Zeppelin
4/5
A Tribe Called Quest
3/5
I like the bass, guitar, and horn parts. The rap is good but not my preference. The beats are a bit repetitive and not very dynamic. The drums are the least favorite part of this record.
MC Solaar
3/5
I've listened to MC Solaar before and do like his voice. This album wasn't clicking with me. It's got some good grooves but seems repeatitive beyond tolerance. It becomes tiresome and I lose interest. It would probably click more if I had a better handle on the French language. The lyrics seem to be a critical element for these tunes.
Adele
4/5
The Doors
3/5
Shuggie Otis
4/5
I love Shuggie Otis. Multi-instrumentalist, just do it yourself kinda player.
Stephen Stills
4/5
I haven't listen to this album in a long time. I forgot how much I enjoyed it. Great studio musicians and arrangements.
Beatles
4/5
Marvin Gaye
4/5
Love this album. Not all out if the park, but still an important recording.
Joni Mitchell
4/5
I don't know this album, but Joni is instantly recognizable and I love the mix of folk and jazz. I'll definately revisit this album. Someday it may be a five star album for me.
Jefferson Airplane
5/5
❤️❤️❤️
Tears For Fears
5/5
❤️❤️❤️
Another favorite from my stacks of vinyl.
Pentangle
2/5
I have this on vinyl. It is not one of my favorites, but admittedly interesting. I like all the elements, but it gives me an anxiety like being harrassed by over zealous mistrels at a renaissance fair. It probably stems from Monty Python and the Holy Grail Tales of Brave Sir Robin.... as he bravely runs away.
There is some classic late 60s CS&N folk vibes and harmonies that I love but I could do without the "Laa laa la la laa la la la la laa la"s.
Funny, I think the "Hunting Song" is great musically sans vocals.
Sheryl Crow
4/5
This could be a five but I'm trying to be reserved. I love Sheryl Crow. Beautiful and charismatic voice. She has great studio musicians. The production is light and fun. The more serious mood songs are raw and open. I'm glad I didn't miss this one.
Crowded House
3/5
The harmonies are great. I only know a couple songs by name but over all not familiar with this album. Good musicians and production but nothing mind blowing. It's a well done recording but I don't feel like I missed anything by not hearing before. The vocal harmonies are the highlight of this album for me but Finn brothers voices are sometimes a little too nasally.
Iggy Pop
4/5
Raw punk David Bowie.
T. Rex
3/5
I played this album a lot when I was younger but only connected with the singles "Get It On" and "Jeepster".
Deep Purple
3/5
Beck
3/5
Wasn't bad but didn't interest me either. I'm just in a mood and not a Beck fan in general. I probably need something or someone to make the connection for me, but for now... Meh.
Michael Jackson
4/5
George Jones
3/5
I like George Jones vocals and country style. The music is very specific to a time and era that I've long out grown. There are style elements that I'd add to new music but only to emphasize the era long ago. I'm more familiar with other tunes before and after this album. Mostly gimmicky tunes with word play or comedic storyline. My rating of this album sits in the middle too... great music but forgettable and not my current go to for an album pull.
The Kinks
4/5
Classic 60s British Rock. I have this album on vinyl but don't play it often enough.
Beatles
5/5
Billy Joel
5/5
The first Billy Joel album I ever heard. I love all these songs and think these are solid songs.
Tangerine Dream
3/5
My brother was really into Tangerine Dream back in the 70s. I like the synth soundscapes but never got into their music. I don't hate it but it's just ambient background music that doesn't trigger any interest. There are a few production ideas that would be cool but they only adders to something more substantial.
Einstürzende Neubauten
4/5
Experimental industrial punk... I love it. I have their second album which is very similar but not as raw. It has the beginning of song structure. This is still great. Trying anything and everything to see works.
John Lee Hooker
4/5
This had some great blues guitar duets.
Donald Fagen
4/5
Such a well produced album. My brother got this album when it first was released and I recall not digging it at first. Since, I have grown to love this album and respect the effort put into it's production. All the instruments have great tone and sit perfectly in the mix. It's probably a five but since my brother liked it so much, I had to knock it down a notch.
Slipknot
3/5
I would have liked this a lot more in my younger years. It's too angry to fit my current preferences. I'd been married for three years and was advancing in my career when this album was released, so it was completely off my radar. I don't hate it but would only listen to it if my kids happen to cue it up. There are definately some fun ideas here, but again I'm not that angry about anything at this point in my life to get any enjoyment from it.
Elvis Presley
4/5
I definately enjoy early Elvis versus later Elvis. Many familar tunes on this album. Yes, he's a bit over the top and bit exagerated, but this is what seperated him from the other crooners of the time. This is a fun album.
Fleetwood Mac
5/5
I didn't have time to listen to this album today, but I know it's a five star album. Great album with a number of classics.
Beatles
5/5
One of the few vinyl records that I've owned multiple copies due to being played all the time.
2Pac
3/5
Cat Stevens
3/5
I enjoy his songwriting but the music drifts into the background.
Gary Numan
4/5
New wave quirkiness. I prefer the "I, Assassin" album, but this one has "Cars".
Gene Clark
3/5
I like Gene Clark's song writing but it's usually too folkie, campfire song sounding to keep my attention. He has great musicians but very straight forward and not very interesting.
Billie Holiday
4/5
Billie has a very distintive voice and style. I don't always like the way she emphsizes certain phrases but she definately has control over her instrument. The music is very well orchestrated and support the songs. This is not one of my favorite albums but it us definately a classic.
Soft Cell
3/5
I only know Tainted Love. This is classic 80s synth pop. It sounds corny to me now but I loved this stuff back in the day. I didn't listen to full albums until the late 80s. This song came out when I was still collecting 45s of popular radio singles. I'll add this to list of things to listen to again more closely to see if I can get anything interesting out of it. Fir now, it's a 3.
Blood, Sweat & Tears
3/5
The Dandy Warhols
4/5
I didn't get to give this a proper listen but there's a lot of good stuff going on. Some of it is a bit annoying but I think thats the point. I will need to go back and listen more.
The Police
4/5
The Smiths
4/5
I really like Johnny Marr's song writing and Andy Rourke's bass playing. I was never a fan of Morrissey but his unique vocal approach make any song recognizable as the Smiths.
Nirvana
5/5
The White Stripes
3/5
Jack White is very creative and I like some of his production ideas, but I feel like these songs were slapped together during a studio jam session with nothing particularly outstanding.
Chicago
5/5
Neil Young
4/5
I have this album on vinyl. It is very typical Neil Young with a some what raw production. None of these songs became "best of" songs for Neil but I think there are a few gems here.
Eagles
4/5
I haven't listened to this album in its entirety in a long time (actual, I still haven't because I was jumping around.) This has a number radio regulars and some chill easy listeners. I remember every song and always enjoyed it. This is one I would listen to again when time permits. I wouldn't rank it a 5 because some of the deep tracks are very melancoly but still well produced.
Bob Dylan
4/5
Janis Joplin
4/5
KISS
4/5
KISS!!! Not my favorite album from Kiss but probably the first one I'd heard back in the day on vinyl (which I still have.)
Elvis Costello
4/5
The Flaming Lips
4/5
The Rolling Stones
5/5
Favorite Rolling Stones album.
Eurythmics
5/5
Annie!!
Femi Kuti
4/5
Enjoyed this album.
Megadeth
3/5
I have this album. I enjoy listening to it. It's got a couple highlights but nothing inspires me to rank it higher than average.
The Go-Go's
5/5