This album sounds like a nervous breakdown Constant, crashing, warlike, eastern percussion takes over much of the album residing over dissonant tones. There is some peaceful breaks, but even then it just seems the brief time you'd spend just holding yourself trying to calm down before becoming enraged once more. Can't believe it took 6 years to record this, or that it was met with such acclaim

Seems to not belong here. It's not bad, but I don't seem to see any significance to it

Fela Kuti always brings such energy to his performances, it's interesting to hear a live recording from so early on in his international career.Even before some of his biggest albums, he was always Fela, one of the main players in defining the Afrobeat genre.

I wasn't sure what to expect from a Rufus "the Hallelujah guy" Wainwright, but this definitely exceeded my expectations. It has many sounds to be later found in later alt / indie music of the next few years. Specifically reminiscent of artists like Andrew Bird and Sufjan Stevens. Really excellent songwriting with a lot of eccentric charm throughout the different styles. Heartfelt and theatrical, bits of whimsy intercede with deep emotion. Put it on early thinking it'd be casual but it really gripped me while listening

Classic jazz patterns, great for a summer day or relaxing background. A vibe for sure

The undisputed Queen of early 2000's R&B. Grimey, Fun, Dramatic, Classic

1972 was a great year for music. This album is not specifically notable to me, but its' influence can be heard throughout the next 50 years of music, especially in English music

This album sounds like a nervous breakdown Constant, crashing, warlike, eastern percussion takes over much of the album residing over dissonant tones. There is some peaceful breaks, but even then it just seems the brief time you'd spend just holding yourself trying to calm down before becoming enraged once more. Can't believe it took 6 years to record this, or that it was met with such acclaim

It's hard rock. Less grating than I thought, even some shoegazy sections, and I'm sure important in developing their genre, but not my deal. Drummer has a Meg White level of talent.

Indicative of late 90's / early 00's indie. The subject hits personally; the whole album is tinged with disparate sadness through the clean, evenness of the music against unenthused and depressed vocals It's smart honestly. Initially sounds like nothing notable, but the album does create a unique story through the play. Not reaching for it any time soon, but its a good blend of sad country and thoughtful indie. Makes sense on this list

Wide open and free. A classic late 60's sound emphasized by the basic patterns of the time and a huge carry on the vibraphone. Blends of jazz and folk stretch throughout a heartfelt, emotional album

Always thought of them as more of a one hit wonder, but I guess I was wrong. Album is timely, and sounds like it's inspired by the end of the 70's with notes of early Ska. Interesting to hear the influence of American Soul on British bands. Could do without the whispering or odd sound sections

Artistic combination of Jazz and Soul brought in to the modern era. Music is very expressive through use of effects and space to envelop the listener in its' journey

A darker, more thoughtful Bowie. A majority of the album, Lazarus specifically, comes off as a Swan Song as many other reviews have contextualized the album. There are lots of layers to this album. Most notably the feedback loop of art. When an artist has lived and created much, they have the option to evolve or stay constant. Hearing tinges of modern artists and their styles blended with an evolution of Bowie's music provides a new experience

Classic. One of the iconic soft folk albums from the period, filled with thoughtful songwriting and lush, synchronous harmonies of two guitars and two voices. A reflection of a different time.

Dramatic and fun, though not always pleasant to listen to. Most notably influenced by the Ramones, with notes of stadium rock and and metal. Clearly an originator of Seattle Grunge as described in reviews, you can really hear the two pedals the album is named for

Pinnacle disco. The Sledge sisters provides the main vocals while an orchestra of other musicians and singers color in the rest of the album. Did not know it was spearheaded by the guys in Chic or that they wrote the songs before knowing the Sledges. An album defining of its' era and endlessly sampled in the modern age.

A stellar and fun Christmas album. A few of the songs are the best versions of the title, two are on the Christmas tape of 1984

Oh fuck, 'Maps' is THAT SONG. The late 90's aggression takes the front seat on the first half of the album, but it develops in to the complexity and finesse of other bands later in the decade. An important album showing the creation and influence of the main indie phase of the 00's Warrants a relisten

Surfy vibes meets more driven rock with R&B and a bit of the Ramones.

Interesting to hear Janis Joplin in such a raw set of recordings. The "fake liveness" of the album is gimmicky and bad, but it was the 60's.

Straight 80's time capsule. Some of the hits have persevered and have been prominent my whole life. Interesting write up in the article about how this was a breakthrough for metal to go mainstream, but this will always be Classic Rock for me

Hauntingly beautiful. Billie Holiday has always been a niche more than something to comfortably put on for all, but her style, presence, and personal tale is something to be appreciated. This album is like a time capsule as jazz quickly began to move towards fusion and bebop

It's poppy, it's punky, a precursor to divergence of music in the 80's. Second side is better than first

Sounds like how someone who never listens to any metal would describe it the genre. Fast, gruff, weird. Leans heavily into religious aspects complete with recordings and choirs. Very intentional drama I'd give 1.5 if I could, but I'll round up for significance

Fast paced synthesized dance hits written for popularity put against some lush, spacious, and dreamy bops. Would be fun to dance to undoubtedly. Silly talking parts included. Vaguely familiar

Creative jaunt through multiple genres from dance pop to trip hop. Expectations met. Definitely not an every day listen, but hits when this genre is what you're looking for

It's one of the greatest albums during the pinnacle of rock. Good mix of complexity, intricate lyricism, and classic songs.

Seems to not belong here. It's not bad, but I don't seem to see any significance to it

It sounds like a lot of the New York rap I wasn't allowed to listen to growing up. That made it seem briefly un-notable, until I realized that this is the album a lot of that pulled from. One of the first to produce and rap in this style. Shoutout NYC

Damn life was good when I was 5 and the world wasn't burning. Made me forget that the first half of this album is leagues better than the second.

Hit after hit. Definitely a fun listen, trails off to more ballads towards the end

The original metal album. Spawned an entire genre of music. Learned about it in Metal 101 with Professor Duke

It sounds like the Beatles on the Ed Sullivan show. Definitely not the Who I know: a lot more blatant influence of the blues and similarly arranged into standard repeated sections. They even said themselves it doesn't quite capture their sound or what their sound will become

So many iconic songs on one album. The core of so many songs and albums in the future. Never was a personal favorite, but its reverence is noted

A cinematic exploration of folk and orchestration. Really wowed through the listen. Resonant with classic 60's music while also leading a clear path to future use of orchestration by bands like Radiohead and the Flaming Lips

Punk and a bit of jazz with a lot of screaming and harsh tones. It took a while for me to think about why this would be ranked so high on Australia's albums of all time, but there's a straight line from this to KGLW

Man do I love the Count

Interesting to learn that it's his first album and that he wrote so much of it. It's a bit too... forwards for me. The 80's be wildin' Worth another listen late night instead of 9 AM on a Tuesday. 2.5/5

Thanks mom Never realized there was no bass on the album, but it is the very distinctive sound of the White Stripes. Reminds me of going to science summer camp. 3.5/5 but round up for nostalgia.

In the End is a classic, Cure for the Itch had some nice triphop vibes and no screaming. There's good parts and interesting components, otherwise, not really the album for me even though I remember a good amount of these songs. Divorced parents soundtrack

Like Black Sabbath, this album was before its' time. Songs were not particularly notable but are the core of punk rock

Never explored this band as much as Declan suggested. There's a reason we all sought his musical wisdom. It's clean, it's lush, it radiates warmth and emotion with crazy good drums

Baroque is the right way to describe most of the sounds of this album. An interesting blend of the classic late 60's Brit sound with classical influences moving more and more away from the norm. An interestingly peaceful listen with some quirks

Another refreshing and peaceful jaunt through late 60's / early 70's singer / songwriter music. Interesting that he's from the Byrds and clearly contributed much

This is the album that did it for them. A good amount of the songs are instantly recognizable, but again they front loaded the album. u2 -> U2

Some of the original triphop right there. Drags a bit in the middle but is an important origin

Classic, killer, thrash. Nothing overbearing or too overtop, just tasty metal

Good Afrobeat, a bit long form

Hard to go wrong with Stevie. Definitely some more mature themes from him laid over some fine grooves

Prime time 90's R&B. Not always right, but hits when it does

Good early punk sound. Both vocalists play off of each other well and keep the album sounding fresh when some of the riffs and songs otherwise sound similar.

Its an absolute classic. One of my favorite Bobby D albums. A transitional phase to more complex songwriting both in terms of music and lyrics. The album is composed of mostly monumental songs known by many, but my favorite is still probably Bob Dylan's 115th Dream

Johnny Cash was one of the original country stars. This album showcases many of his talents: His deep, sultry voice, his natural story telling, and most of all his striking charisma. There's times when he voice cracks or he just asks for a glass of water a second time, and it shows how comfortable he is on stage. One hell of an artist

Interesting to go back and listen to these guys: their sound is a cinematic blend of US pop punk and UK Indie. right as everything was coming together in the mid 00's. Well made and produced

A fascinating story of travel recorded in a busy, heavily Asian influenced album. The synthesized drum beats in contrast with recordings of native choirs are a bit jarring at time but was an interesting journey

Classic Van Morrison. The man cultivated quite a vibe before he slowly became an unbearable asshole

This album marks a transition to more expressive psychedelic and emotional music. Absolutely influential and, though rough at times, played a big roll in creating the revolution of the 60's. White Rabbit is the perfect analogy to exploring the unknown given its' consistent use to flash back to the Vietnam war

Unlike some critics, I would not go so far as to say this is the Who's best work. It is filled with well-written songs that sound especially 60's on top of its' status of notable social commentary. 3.5/5

Interesting to see this on here. I definitely enjoyed this more than I thought, but am not running back to it for a casual listen. Good working or rotting music.

Fela Kuti always brings such energy to his performances, it's interesting to hear a live recording from so early on in his international career.Even before some of his biggest albums, he was always Fela, one of the main players in defining the Afrobeat genre.

Jazzy, well-articulated, easy going tunes. Ray Charles nailed it. Lush orchestration and classic tunes. A great collection to be made aware of

It's fucking Dark Side. Recently read a conspiracy that the album is supposed to be played B side first then A side: Starting with Money and ending with Great Gig in the Sky. Listening to it like this definitely changes the tone of the album and is an interesting approach to something I've listened through many times. I'd recommend it to any long time listener as its easy on Vinyl and easier with modern services

Not the Radiohead album I would've thought to encounter here first, but also not one I'm too familiar with. Starting off in 7/4 is just such a classic Radiohead thing to do. Fairly mellow given Radiohead's body of work but with all of the notable stylistic choices of the band in the early 00's. A good album to listen back on

A vibe. Everything does sound vaguely like "Groove is in the Heart." Really interesting guests and directly influences the development of 90's music

A lot more mellow and articulated than "an anarcho-syndicalist speedfreak road-movie record" made it sound. Certainly cinematic but overall a bit underwhelming. Everything from design to description made this sound like a thrash album and it just wasn't

A really interesting blend of cultures and sounds. Anthems for the regular people of LA County. Full of energy, Ozomatli definitely delivered here. Will have to check more of their catalogue out

Rich mid-90's psych-rock. Philosophical and spacious as implied by the name. Good heavy bits and good writing, nothing crazy though

Sounds like the 1950's again. Muddy big and proud on this album with tight backing. Some of the best mainstream blues

Though never explicitly stated, it seems these albums were an early blend of electronic and world music. It's groovy if not oddly distant at points. Becomes a bit repetitive towards the end of the album, but was an interesting listen.

I am glad I took the time to read about the movie before listening. This album sounds like a soundtrack, obviously based heavily in Indian Culture. It is good for what it is, though I do not understand what qualified it for this list.

Very distinct as late 60's psychedelic folk. A lot of renaissance themes to it, combined with their Scottish accents, makes it sound like it would fit in the Fox Robinhood universe. Theatrical and silly yet oddly satisfying.

Spooky Skeleton man has always had a refined blend of punk and appeal. It i interesting to listen to the differences in the tracks produced by Iggy and by Bowie.

Instrumental, percussion heavy, covers album. Yes please. Lots of samples and inspiration from this one.

Cee Lo has always been a little full off him self and it shows. This album has a great depth of production and interesting guests, but I'm not sure what put it on this list. A continuation of the exploration of Southern Style Hip Hop

The refined sound blend of good 80's music with interesting lyrical content. Very cool how a lot of it references literature and recreates the feelings of being in love 4/5

One of my favorite albums of all time. The source of a few long running family remarks (SLOWLY DWADDLES) and fights (Is the Jack of Hearts alive at the end of the song???), and many fond memories of singing this in the backseat as early as I can remember. It's also one of the best examples of the Bob Dylan's deservingness of the title "Poet Laureate of a Generation." A deeply emotional and complicated album that has stood the test of time and changed with me as I've grown

Cinematic and wild. Many different layers of sounds and moments were expertly created and refined here. What a start to a solo career.

I can't believe this came out in 1983.. I have a whole new appreciation of the Violent Femmes. Killer Acoustic Bass Guitar and clearly influential to Alt and Indie music. Strikingly minimal while whimsical and calamitous

Another high concept art album from legendary assholes. Important in terms of sampling and tracking but not a particularly enjoyable listen. Often sounds like the music from How It's Made

They don't make albums like they used to HOT DAMN. Continuity through a thoughtful 4 part album?! Sign me up Impressive segueing of styles and composition. A bit odd to listen to as such but really interesting

One of the earlier examples of the melodic shift of Southern Hip Hop. Widely influential, not always what I'm looking for

Thought this would be a one hit wonder band with a guitar hero song, but it was a well put together combo of hard rock and funk with a laundry list of influences. Great instrumentation

U2's body of music is really hard to grasp sometimes. Half of their body of music is from my lifetime and half before. Their sound changes by decades, but always holds the same stadium appeal. I've heard a good amount of the songs from this album prior but listening this intently makes me appreciate their significance much more. This album feels more complete than All That You Can't Leave Behind and the songs I didn't know stood out more.

4/13 songs have been removed from Spotify. High Quality early 90's Hip Hop beats with politics as the clear focus. Surprisingly doesn't feel patronizing or begging because it goes in so hard. So forwards its reminds of the Adventure Time POLITICAL RAP scene. It's almost hard to believe this guy went on to create Spearhead and write such cheery music if the politics weren't so consistent.

A well done set of classics by a legend. Not groundbreaking, but it is genre defining. Enjoyable listen

Refined dissonance. This album has definitely influenced many of the indie bands I grew up listening to. The moments of harshness are surprisingly balanced and I enjoyed more than I thought

Again, I liked this more than I thought I would. Dexy's really did come out swinging, and the advent of the string section definitely helped that along on this one. It's a shame all of the horns left the band immediately after this release. Lots of early ska. Sounds like the drama kids just pulled a bunch people from Orchestra, Band, and Chorus by the song to help them record in a good way

Filled with personality and that great early chugging of NYC Hard Rock, this is a stand out for sure. Nothing crazy or overcomplicated, the dolls delivered a fun album while telling Homophobia to fuck off.

This album bred so many rappers for decades to come. Never could really lean into the aggression of it all, but the beats are crazy. So many samples to make groundbreaking songs and runs for a full hour. Its' influence is the reason why I wasn't allowed to listen to rap growing up. Some parts of this definitely wouldn't fly today, but this was always meant to be something that made people scared and angry. Not my deal, but reverent of it.

Clocking in at nearly three hours total, I thought I would need a break. The variety of it all kept me invested. There is a lot of distinct indie charm and New York life mashed into these songs. It is impressive how many genres and styles this album goes through and how many different views of love are presented in these "Love Songs" A lot of it doesn't quite reach that complex level of songwriting, but there's a lot of depth in the lyricism. I think its' concept is fun and that it realistically is more of a Revue than a consistent album. It comes off more silly than profound at times, but I think that's the point. A wild album to put together and record. I ended up liking this better than I thought

Album is good, though I think it's importance must lie in its' dreamy reintroduction of Bossa Nova music into the popular lens in Europe and America. The most interesting things I learned: the Serbian producer of the album died due to smoke inhalation after a studio fire, and that Gilberto is a Brazilian Bossa Nova dynasty musician.

Comes off as Post-Folk as it is obviously tinged with Morrison's older work but there is a much wider range of influences present. A sweeping soundscape of moods, this album came off much better than I anticipated.

A true, full concept album. It's a well written and sad story about the ravages of addiction including ups and downs, all still smattered with Lou Reed's iconic NYC sound. It would be worth going back and trying to read through the lyrics or listening more consistently to the lyrics.

A love letter and introduction from Jimi. It includes many of his best known songs as well as some incredible instrumentation and songwriting. This album is one of the major sounds of the late 60's and inspired generations of guitarists to explore their artistry. Hard to believe that this is a debut album at times.

Didn't really do it for me. Hard to follow the vocal themes and is a bit zany and inconsistent. I don't believe I disliked it as much as it didn't settle as an important experience for me.

90's Soul / R&B Incarnate. Refined and sexy . This album just feels good when this is the mood you want.

Classic 90's Alt feel. Catchy while still holding to the edgy attitude. Interesting stories behind the band.

A day in the life of a Hi-Fi Audiophile: 1) Plead with my wife to come back home 2) Crank that sweet, sweet Steely Dan

Country music back in the day just hits different. It's still free, artistic, and a memory of simpler times. Getting Flagels with Grampa out in NJ and his love of outlaw country. It's hard to think of Dolly anything other than the mega figure she has been my entire life. Short and sweet lil album here.

Appropriate for the times, did not feel as weighty as the Wikipedia and Critical reviews would've made me guess. Likely worth a listen, definitely an influence to many of the British Indie favorites of mine.

This is it: the transition from jazz and blues and psychedelic rock to jam bands in recorded form. Utilizing the new 16 track recording, to capture a lot of the finer details of and emotion of a live show

So this is Gothic Rock, huh? Always nice to eb able to put a name to a genre I know. Nick Cave was interesting to learn about, as is a lot of Australian music. Not fully my deal but iconic for what it is. A double album is always appreciated.

1973: A great year for music A lot of classics from this album and songs I knew but didn't realize. Absolutely a vibe in and of itself. Interesting to learn that this is the album where the 3 brothers incorporated 3 other musicians for the first time, though now the name makes it seem obvious

Whimsical and eccentric, this album has a lot of surprising notes to it. Everything from screeching guitar solos to silly, high pitched vocals, it almost comes off as a musical soundtrack sometimes. Interesting to learn about Sparks and who they've influenced, especially through this album. When I started this album, I thought this wasn't going to be my style at all, but it surprisingly grew on me in a way I didn't expect. Warrants a re-listen

I immediately recognize this album cover, but had never really listened. Was just a bit early from when when I hit my big Indie pocket. A soaring album of dramatic swells and emotions. Really keyed in on the lonesome aspect of heartbreak, highlighted by the use of space and small effects suspended in them.

Wonderful album, and definitely seems to be tipping the scale towards psychedelia. Had lots of classic early 60's charm. Always interesting to find out songs I didn't think were covers are: Mr. Spaceman

A bit of musical ADD with how many songs are crammed into the 74 minute run time. Interesting in how many style are captured and interpreted. Difficult to listen to at times

Such a classic 60's sound, it transportative. 12 songs in under 30 minutes is also a nice surprisingly easy listen

Definitively Noise Rock, but with a nice hit of passion. Got me moving from time to time through all of the abrasiveness.

Good mid 70's punk sound with exploratory lyrics. Great use of space. Nothing crazy, but a solid album all the same

It's just really high quality American Punk as the scales began to tip towards that musical direction. Jello's voice matched up with the high speed and intensity of the music makes it a very immersive album, ready to thrash about whenever needed.

The album is quiet, had to be turned up from where I've listened to every other album. Definitely seems to follow the path transitioning Punk to Grunge in the early 90's with hints of Indie.

The whole album is more than just American Pie! Aside from the classic of classics, there's a lot of excellent era appropriate folk blended with a bit of country and Don McLean's own sound.

Lots of interesting musicality interacting through Hard Rock. Didn't listen as intently as desired, but certainly a good and important album for what it is

There are many interesting moments on this album, though overall, it does fall fairly flat to me. Seems at times to blend R&B aspects with traditional Reggae roots. Album takes advantage of lots of space, feels a bit unfulfilling at points, but that is more due to personal style.

Sounds like a more driven and experimental version of the Police at times. Definitely a show of the movement towards musical differences in the early 80's, but not something that could stand up greatly to the test of time

It was interesting to hear Bob Live in such an early part of his career, having already achieved international success. Concert is in two sets: the first is just Bob, guitar, and harmonica while the other has the band behind him. To think he was only 25 at the time and had already become so notable is wild. It's nice to hear his artistry resonate through the theater and this album is good, though this is not a standout favorite

Classic early American Soul. Everyone knows the song Green Onions: it has appeared so many times as the song people explain how the Heist is going to go down. Lots of great organ and instrumentation and enjoyable covers. Research led me to McLemore Avenue, a Booker T. and the M.G.s All Beatles cover album

The sounds of the 60's from Surf Rock to Hendrix to the Blues are pervasive throughout the album, but it's all quite different. If the first true Heavy Metal album is Black Sabbath, this definitely helped clear the way. The sound quality is a little rough and could definitely use a remaster. An interesting listen and clear path of evolution in music

I feel like my whole generation was lied to about Deep Purple: "They're the guys who wrote a guitar song you can play with one finger. Famous one hit wonders!" This album shredded. Lots of high intensity, hard rock jams that went on for longer than anticipated. There were some weird parts like a 4 minute drum solo or some back and forths between the vocalist and guitar solos that didn't translate well, but I imagine seeing this blitzed on coke in the early 70's in Japan was an absolute riot.

I'm glad it was compared to Gaye's "What's Going On" which came out around the same time. A lot of the soundtrack is familiar because so many of these songs have pushed beyond the boundary of backing music and defined an entire genre of soul

Album was delightful and fun. Just silly enough to be relaxed and poppy enough to have made a name for itself.

A testament to the great, expansive, pinnacle of Rock that occurred in the mid-70's. Wish You Were Here is an incredible album and should be appreciated. It is more operatic than Dark Side and showcases clever songwriting in the transitions

Outside of my normal scope of music, this was a bit challenging through long sections of repeated beats with limited development in the songs. That being said, it is a high quality album and a great album for focus. The final song, the Private Psychedelic Reel, was definitely my favorite. I don't think this belongs in the greatest 100 albums of all time, but I'm glad I listened to it

Elton John has put out so much music over the course of his career, but the early 70's, right when he started, was like someone turned on a fire hose. A good album that's got plenty of Elton's classic charm and songwriting that starts with Tiny Dancer of all songs.

Very dramatic and intricate songwriting with the lyricism to boot. Does sound and feel very similar to exploring New York. It's a bit long winded, but a feat of musicality undoubtedly

It's hard to overstate Janis Joplin's importance to music and the rock and roll scene. What a powerhouse of a vocalist and someone who was taken too early from us. The album really captures a lot of her uniqueness and her voice.

Much more mellow and soul driven than Superfly, a great listen. There's a lot of character and emotion pushed out through the album. So In Love is a Curtis Mayfield song it turns out. Love finding older originals to newer covers and comparing and contrasting through this project

I've heard a lot about this album through different media sources, and is rightly lauded as a defining moment in Alternative Rock. Though not listed as a concept album by Billy Corgan, this "Loose Collection of Songs" has distinctly captured the feelings of teenage angst and confusion. Over 28 songs, there is naturally some brilliant moments and some to be less enjoyed, but a good listen none the less.

Some really fun and hypnotic, trancy dance music. Has some surprisingly deep lyrics. Warrants a full relisten, but would great to put on to hype some people up or have on during afters

Sorry mom: ABBA is good. This is so different than a lot of the popular ABBA songs and I believe represents some of the tenser moments of Mama Mia. It has a gothic/baroque quality to it and is soaring with emotional turmoil.

It's really good, even better than I anticipated. The guys in Metallica may be dicks, but the two hours of symphonic metal on this album makes up for it. Perfect D&D fight music. Will warrant another listen

This album DRIVES. Nonstop movement and motivation through constant guitar work and shouted vocals. I like that they refused to be labeled a metal band, and were instead a "Rock 'n' Roll" band Not something I want to listen to all of the time, but it's a damn good rock album

I've learned a lot about Nine Inch Nails listening to and researching this album that I didn't before. For one thing, Trent Reznor is the entire fucking band. There's a few small instruments and samples added as a cherry on top, but he's credited for "Vocals, All Instruments, Arranger, Producer" on this album. Not even just that, he was using early Macintosh software to edit and distort the sounds and frequencies used. The album is rough and erratic, and can be hard to listen to. I feel that's almost the point though. A concept album of a man so misanthropic he kills God before struggling to take his own life is relatable in a lot of ways. It speaks a lot to the underground scene in the early 90's and a bit to what some of these live shows must have been like. As I listened, this album grew on me much more than I would've guessed. Ultimately, an incredible accomplishment in music history that warrants more listens and analysis of the lyrics. It's time to come to terms with the drum machine

This was a fine album, not my particular music taste. Interesting combo of raps and 80's beats.

9/11 had a profound effect on the music industry, and I don't think any of it was good. This is a prime example. Its awash with patriotism and self-pride. The music is simple and uninspired while being littered with a bunch of over complicated melismatic strings. It feels lazy overall. It's the shadow of albums like Born to Run and Wild, Innocent, E-Street band. I love Bruce, but this is not the version of him I love. If anything I feel like this still belongs on the list to show the significance of 9/11 in music

Idk what I expected, but it was definitely not a gruff, punk album. Its got some surf rock, it's got some stomp and holler, its not by any means revelatory. Crazy that these guys blew up thanks to a few songs on their 4th album. Not a bad listen, but idk why it's on here

It's 2023 all year, so it's Willie Nelson's 90th birthday all year. Crazy to think that Willie Nelson's 22nd studio album was one of the ones that really propelled him into the mainstream. Cool story about Booker T. Jones producing and arranging the album after meeting on a jog in Malibu. It's hard to hate classics like these, especially coming from Willie Nelson reflecting on his own influences.

I always wondered why people got really into Devo. This made me wonder why more. Half-ass sounding cover of Satisfaction. Some really high instrumental notes were cut off by vocals coming in. The yelling and stuttering syncopation were just not for me. Whole album sounds unenthusiastic and lacks emotion. Not insufferable, but not good.

1973: A great year for music. Straight to the point: Iggy Pop and the Stooges created Punk Rock. They were not the only ones, but this is the album that really gets it together. Reading about the different approach to music and guitar due to the new guitarist is really interesting and helps connect the lines to the Clash, the Ramones, the Sex Pistols, and Patti Smith

A great classic album. Many of the songs are still in rotation today. Interesting to learn about the recording process and how the band got together to create this album. An incredible debut, though not particularly influential or significant beyond its' popularity

Great musicality with lots of space and thoughtful lyrics. Black Sabbath really paved the way for Metal of all varieties. Love learning about producer changes like this where the band does it and it changes the sound positively Not only were they pioneers, but in research, I learned they put out 4 albums in their first two and a half years: prolific

There is a distinctly different set of influences on this album from world music compared to the rest of the Police's catalogue. Everyone knows Every Breath You Take. A classic album that provided a fitting end for the band. It was really cool to see their reunion tour as a kid.

Filled with a lot of space and self-reflection, this album takes a step back from the normal bops of Stevie Wonder, but holds just as much of his iconic character.

POST-ROCK!! Wasn't sure I'd see any of this on here. I was surprised that it was this album from Tortoise, but after reading how it was one of the more notable entries in early Post-Rock, it makes sense. Album is tactfully written and full of complex emotion. Definitely a good listen

Not the easiest to listen to, but that's how it often is with post-x music. I'm not running back to this album, but it was very interesting to listen to this and consider how it influenced those after it in a similar genre like Joy Division and the Sonic Youth

The production on this album is incredible. Quincy Jones always nails it. Though a bit more hard lined and serious than some of MJs other albums, it is still a landmark album in the catalogue with all of his unique quirks and styles showing through

It's not even my favorite Green Day album, but it's a classic. Green Day started a new wave of Punk amid America's slide into Grunge. It's short, it's loud, and it definitely gets the point across. It's not particularly musically complex, but its influence and emotion definitely leave this as a good contender.

I've been looking to explore Traffic again so this was a nice push. The album is a bit scattered in a way I really like. Shows how many influences they had and leads to the direction they would go in. Definitely a front runner in Progressive Rock. 3.5/5

1973: A great year for music A bit more reserved but still an artistic accomplishment from the masters of perfection. Though none of the songs ever broke through as singles, it still deserves high praise for the journey it takes you on.

Three very well known popular songs out of the eight and a half on the album is impressive. It's not reinventing the wheel, because this is the sound of 80's rock. Not the most musically impressive thing I've ever listened to, but it's full of drive and energy. To be appreciated for its influence for sure

This feels so unnatural, Peter Gabriel too... Sledgehammer and In Your Eyes. Lots of progressive, synth heavy music with the exact kind of gripping lyrics and fusions you'd expect.

I don't love all of Prince's music, but this was phenomenal. The artistry and talent shown on the album is crazy. Not an easy or short listen, but well worth the time. Probably one of the best albums to come out of 80's pop hell

I listened to this the same day as Siouxsie and the Banshees for continuity after missing a bunch of albums. It's great to see how they took the same dramatic post-punk and refined it into a more well thought-out album with their own spin. Album definitely has a lot of attitude that is kept pretty minimal at times but breaks through to intense bits. Great, if not strange song writing

This is a distinct step forward in musicality from "My Aim is True." Definitely leans a bit more into the pop sound but still has all of the sharpness and interesting styles you want from Elvis Costello. The Attractions add a lot of depth to the record, as does the increased level of production.

A staple in folk albums. So many immediately recognizable songs from Bridge, to Cecilia, the Boxer, etc. It's got its' own flair and styles and was a worthy finale of Simon and Garfunkel

Breezy, great instrumentation, a solid listen through. Nothing is exceptionally mind blowing, but it is definitely an impressive debut. Gotta love the Sultans of Swing.

Easy listening. Some good classic soul. It's exactly what you expect in a good way

Damn is this a vibe. I wish world music like this had the same kind of write ups that the more popular stuff does. Obviously they hit a smaller group of people, but there's clearly a lot more to this album than the Wiki leads. A complex jaunt of music and emotion. The language barrier doesn't matter too much because the music is so expressive as is. As advertised: a short, but comprehensive jaunt through a uniquely African soundscape

I feel like this is another Deep Purple situation. Sure everyone knows School's Out the song, but the album has a lot more complexity and appeal though not mainstream. A fun listen and an interesting possible concept album about ending school and having to grow up after graduation

Is Joy Division overrated? Yes and No Of their own admission, they didn't try too hard to make this album. They're talented musicians that shot the shit and got darker and darker until they would hit record and improvise jams and lyrics into a tape recorder. Bernard Sumner's suicide certainly helped propel the band a bit more into notoriety especially with these posthumous releases. All of that being said, Joy Division is one of if not THE seminal band in Post-Punk. Their style was certainly their own and has influenced a great many people. Some take it deep to heart and some just wear the T-shirt for clout. Joy Division is a cultural and musical icon, no matter how you look at the quality of their music or artistry. Even if it's not for you, it's important to appreciate the steps of musical history.

Really great production on the album. Cut Chemist and Chali already got high marks from me for Ozomatli. It's a good album and continued to push HipHop in the early 00's to blend more and more with other genres. 3.5/5

I didn't like this nearly as much as Mellon Collie. It is good, and once again defining Alt Rock, but I don't feel that it carries the same weight personally

A bit simple, but shows how much of a talent Paul Simon was even when he we just starting out on his own. Most if not all of the songs had been recorded for years before being released. Nothing mind blowing, but an important piece of musical history. A bridge between his days with Garfunkel and his future sound

I wasn't sure what to expect from a Rufus "the Hallelujah guy" Wainwright, but this definitely exceeded my expectations. It has many sounds to be later found in later alt / indie music of the next few years. Specifically reminiscent of artists like Andrew Bird and Sufjan Stevens. Really excellent songwriting with a lot of eccentric charm throughout the different styles. Heartfelt and theatrical, bits of whimsy intercede with deep emotion. Put it on early thinking it'd be casual but it really gripped me while listening

The QUEEN You just gotta love it

Really interesting to hear James Brown from such an early point of his career. I didn't particularly know any of the songs but he still comes through as the performer everyone knows him to be. I think this is just before he skyrocketed to the very top with some of his singles. An interesting point in music history

Its good, though I'm not quite sure why it's on here. I had no idea Rod Stewart was in Faces so that's interesting. Captures the changing sounds of the early 70's transition from Blues to Rock. Not as hard as the Stones, but a clear directional shift

Its fun and silly while still being distinctly punk. Reminds me a lot of the TV album from Less Than Jake but a bit more raunchy. Nothing particularly gripping but a fun listen regardless

Hendrix truly helped reinvent what the guitar could be. I prefer Are You Experienced, but there's still much to be appreciated on album 2

Fuck yeah. Learned a lot about Chuck D and Flava Flav (the original Hype Man) not to mention that they're also from Long Island The mixing is so good. Definitely pushed Hip-Hop in new directions in the late 80's all while staying socially conscious.

Other then Sunshine of Your Love, nothing especially stood out. It was good psychedelic rock and a fun listen, but that's all it was

This took me by surprise: When I saw Chicago it was lots of ballads and the popular songs I knew that were fun, but didn't stand up to their showmates Earth, Wind, & Fire. This comes off more as a glorious processional. Lots of well articulated and harmonized horn parts with long running songs and solos. It almost comes off as a fusion of jazz and jam. Tons of energy and style choices, this was really one hell of a debut.

Really great mixing from a style I never really listen to. A bit long but a fun listen

Disappointing. I really only knew Paper Planes going in, and I was hoping the rest of the album would be a worldly electronic vibe. It got worldly and electronic, but vibes were few, Did think the kids rapping was cute though. Not my style but not bad. Enjoyed the clear influence of travel and world sounds on the album

This is a great example of an album that has a lot of thought put into it. The combo of the lavish orchestrations with the determinedly dark and spacey moods / lyrics creates quite an album. I was surprised that of any indie albums I know, this was one of the first to show up, but I'm happy to rediscover it through this project

This was David Bowie's gateway to himself. Already well established by the time he put out this album, the change in songwriting and some notable songs like Changes and Life on Mars? primed him to create Ziggy. Listening through this album takes a little effort, but it's worth it. 3.5/5

I didn't make it all of the way through the album because it's noted that this album was removed from the project at a later release. This should've stayed and Fetch the Bolt Cutters should never have made it. This isn't good, but its' cultural relevance may make this album worthy of a listen. I could totally mosh if drunk enough. This created a whole subsection of people who wore Neon too big gym shorts with TAPOUT Shirts. Ahhhh youth. I see what they were going for with the Rap/Rock and how hype they were on themselves given the time, but I can't stand it.

Another album that grew on me as I listened. A balanced amount of politics and spacious post punk. Some especially grabbing moments, but nothing mind blowing. I'm glad to have gotten the chance to listen, this is not the kind of genre that's easy to find. Also very cool to learn about Julian as an artist

This is some high quality Country music. I miss when this is what Country referred to instead of small town this, 9/11 that. The Grand Tour and Our Private Life are specific highlights. It's short, sweet, and packed with a deeply emotional baritone.

A distinctly British sounding album undoubtedly. Like someone took the 60's rock and pop and put the filter of early punk on it. Down to the Tube Station was my favorite on album.

I love this album. Funny how when you separate some of the singles, everything takes on a bit more of a positive light than when you listen to the whole album. They really nailed the concept and emotional output of this one. Reading about the musical was interesting, knowing Aaron Sorkin was briefly attached to it especially. I think it'd be an interesting show, but much like Sorkin, feel that it being sung all of the way through would remove some of its' emotional content.

It's really good dance music that absolutely hits a level deeper than similar groups around the mid-90's playing this style. It's a bit longwinded for me and difficult to listen to all of the way through, but it would be better in a different setting is my guess. May warrant a relisten to try to highlight and understand some of the subtleties

This was a fascinating album to listen to. I'm not aware of many rap concept albums, especially none so early with such a talented group behind it. It's weird. A whole hour of a homicidal alien gynecologist is not exactly what I was expecting to appear on this list, or ever hear. Sticks to its' underground roots and laid out a path for a lot of weird / story based rap during an interesting time of for this style

Will it Destroy Rock and Roll? No Name aside, it's a great showing of soft rock and other more lush influences to electronic music to create different sounds. Not as gripping as most album, but does have value, especially as background music for focus

Original girl pop in the best way. Interesting to read about their origin and hear some of the later all female groups that use albums like this for inspiration

A few big songs I knew, but mostly went into this one blind. Great production, but is still old enough into hiphop variance in the individual songs. Very socially aware and a worthwhile listen as a response to the 1992 riots.

A fine dance album. Its' place on this list is questionable though as I cant find anything particularly revelatory or big influences other than D.A.N.C.E.

This was great, eccentric Blues. I even listened to the additional 7 bonus tracks I was so intrigued. Ultimately an artist I had been meaning to check out long term and glad to finally get the opportunity.

The longing of this album is much different when compared to Harvest, as intended. I really appreciate the themes of loneliness and feeling distanced while being around people. I always forget how much I like Neil young, wish his music was back on Spotify

I don't think anyone is rushing to put Tom Petty at the top of their "Greatest Guitar Players of All Time" list, but it is very interesting to listen to his first album. It's sweet, carries a nice breezy feel to it, and is definitely tied to the heartland of America.

Interesting to learn about the formation of the band and how they grew out of the mid-70's NYC scene. Best fact is that Lou Reed told David Byrne to never wear short sleeves on stage because his arms were so hairy. It's eccentric and fun, was very unique upon release. Tina Wheymouth is such a good bass player and I was happy to hear a lot of her style on the album. Listening to the bonus tracks added a lot more depth to the record

An album that carries significant emotional weight. Balancing spoken word sections with simple but pertinent R&B songs featuring historically African themes in music and lyrics. For an album that came out mid-pandemic and within a single month of the George Floyd incident, this album is an incredible summary of feelings and direction. It incorporates immediate struggle, but also expresses frustration in summary of decades and centuries of othering. Really glad this made it on to the list in its' most recent review.

Young Damon Alban really nailed this one, and apparently it's not even their biggest album, definitely makes me want to explore more. Reading about how Blur needed a hard image change so they pioneered Britpop is a wild story. Influences heard in many mid 00's indie and alt bands. I like how the sound transfers to the Gorillaz, who often take it one step further or odder

You can take the boy out of long island but you can't take the long island out of the boy. Everyone knows these songs, almost everyone loves them. What a way to make sure the company didn't drop you

I never got into Oasis because they're whiny assholes and were a bit before my time. Big influencers and an album that should be in the project, but it just doesn't really go anywhere. It was... fine. None of the big Oasis hits I know of, but still well put together musically. There's a lot more complexity to it than it leads on, but the whole album feels like it was made to be nonchalant in the epitomic British way. Can't believe some people are willing to vote for this as the best album of all time

A national treasure. I doubt there will ever be a better Superbowl performance than Purple Rain. Even though it's not my thing, it's impossible to not appreciate the artistry on this album or treat it as anything other then Genre Defining

Brian Eno comes off as a bit of a dick, but I don't think I knew he was credited for inventing Ambient music. Definitely an important album in that regard and really capitalizes on the "as ignorable as it is interesting"-ness of it all, in Eno's own words.

Didn't really know much going in. Reading about how his career and dropping out of high school through this being a response album he put out after "selling out" for pop, to everything after was all very interesting. An excellent showing of old school hiphop that certainly is one of the defining albums of rap music

At first I wasn't sure how to feel about this album, but doing more research helped assure me that this album should be on the list. It's an interesting bridge between the early stages of British punk mixed with 70's psychedelia and pop. Highlighted by mixing rhythms, tones, tempos, and sudden changes between those in the songs from all three different styles.

Lush and full, a love letter to the end of a musical era. This album resonates with the sounds of similar singers from the 50's and 60's highlighted by the captivating sound of Dusty's voice. A shame it wasn't initially received well, this album is an instant classic

Jethro Tull cultivated a distinctive late 60's sound that they twisted to their own through emotional songwriting and unique choices. One of the few popular musical acts to be in the last 60 years to use flute at all, and probably one of the best at it. Lots of songs I already knew and enjoyed and a great few I didn't to round out the album. Great listen!

A good album with interesting electronic notes and good songwriting, but feels a bit long winded even after just 35 minutes. Their own eccentricity is apparent and the songs that I knew are still classics. 2.5/5

This album was a great listen, really capitalizing on the return of glam and hair rock complete with chugging guitars, soring vocals, and fun effects.

Shows quite the effort as the first solo Jackson album departing from Motown Jackson 5 stuff. A landmark disco album to usher in the era. Obviously some very famous songs, but more interesting to me was who all contributed to write them.

A main influence on English bands post-Britpop, this album brought Radiohead out of one hit wonder territory and led them further into their experimental territory. I really like the blend of influences from Pop, Grunge, and their own brand of esoteric oddness. Not my favorite album from them, but an interesting point in their and UK''s music development. Quite the sophomoric effort

A unique turn in the mid-80's for a soon to be genre defining band. I think it's kind of funny Morrisey didn't let the band get photographed eating meat for promotion. Increasing the political activeness over a very aesthetically good album, great bass and guitar work

This album is a capture of 1970's NYC. 7/8 songs on this album are perfect... and then there's meeting on the river, an art song that is good and appreciated, but out of place. Really stops album flow. So many classics between Thunder Road, 10th Ave. Freeze Out, and Born to Run, but Jungleland is an incredible musical/ballet emphasizing NYC and showing off one of the greatest saxophone solos in modern music. Hits the spot every time

Though her Synth project never took off, Tori Amos seemingly led the way for eccentric piano based singer/songwriters of the 90's and mid 00's. A bit odd at first, she really settles into opening a vulnerable and questioning space while putting herself fully on the line.