234
Albums Rated
2.87
Average Rating
21%
Complete
855 albums remaining
Rating Distribution
Rating Timeline
Taste Profile
2010s
Favorite Decade
Soul
Favorite Genre
UK
Top Origin
Critic
Rater Style ?
14
5-Star Albums
13
1-Star Albums
Breakdown
By Genre
By Decade
By Origin
Albums
You Love More Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Parachutes
Coldplay
|
5 | 3.46 | +1.54 |
|
Bookends
Simon & Garfunkel
|
5 | 3.56 | +1.44 |
|
Black Holes and Revelations
Muse
|
5 | 3.59 | +1.41 |
|
In The Court Of The Crimson King
King Crimson
|
5 | 3.6 | +1.4 |
|
good kid, m.A.A.d city
Kendrick Lamar
|
5 | 3.61 | +1.39 |
|
Trafalgar
Bee Gees
|
4 | 2.63 | +1.37 |
|
Hms Fable
Shack
|
4 | 2.77 | +1.23 |
|
Yeezus
Kanye West
|
4 | 2.78 | +1.22 |
|
In Rainbows
Radiohead
|
5 | 3.84 | +1.16 |
|
The Stranger
Billy Joel
|
5 | 3.85 | +1.15 |
You Love Less Than Most
| Album | You | Global | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Dookie
Green Day
|
1 | 3.79 | -2.79 |
|
Ramones
Ramones
|
1 | 3.58 | -2.58 |
|
Raw Power
The Stooges
|
1 | 3.32 | -2.32 |
|
Run-D.M.C.
Run-D.M.C.
|
1 | 3.13 | -2.13 |
|
Dig Me Out
Sleater-Kinney
|
1 | 3.08 | -2.08 |
|
Heartattack And Vine
Tom Waits
|
1 | 3.07 | -2.07 |
|
Will The Circle Be Unbroken
Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
|
1 | 2.98 | -1.98 |
|
Swordfishtrombones
Tom Waits
|
1 | 2.95 | -1.95 |
|
Exodus
Bob Marley & The Wailers
|
2 | 3.94 | -1.94 |
|
The Only Ones
The Only Ones
|
1 | 2.92 | -1.92 |
Artists
Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Led Zeppelin | 4 | 4.25 |
| Beatles | 5 | 4 |
Least Favorites
| Artist | Albums | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Tom Waits | 2 | 1 |
| The Stooges | 3 | 2 |
Controversial
| Artist | Ratings |
|---|---|
| Pink Floyd | 2, 5 |
5-Star Albums (14)
View Album Wall
Popular Reviews
Sex Pistols
2/5
Even if I didn't know they were British, I still can tell they have bad teeth. My friend Cristina--a grad student studying speech pathology--would be stoked to work with them.
4 likes
The Last Shadow Puppets
2/5
I think this could have been insane. But even from the first track, which I thought was the best, I didn't like the vocals. It reminded me too much of Brendon Urie, and I'm sorry, but I have zero tolerance for anything Panic! at the Disco related. I also thought the synchronized chorus vocals were a bit tacky and uninspiring.
What saved this album from the dregs of the barrel was the instrumentality. It was creative, captivating, and thrilling, but it's where they fell short the hardest. There were countless times when I had faith in a promising build-up that would culminate into this world-changing, eyes-rolling-into-the-back-of-my-head climax. But right as I'm about to scream for my mother, it just...went soft. I feel like they kept playing it safe when they were right on the cusp of making something really interesting and unique. I wish they had taken that risk, because now it's just making me cringe.
3 likes
Miles Davis
2/5
But a 6 if I listened to this live while sipping an Old Fashioned.
3 likes
1-Star Albums (13)
All Ratings
R.E.M.
2/5
Bruh I keep bamboozling myself because all these albums start out alright but fall off so hard and then I'm second guessing myself. This is can't be put on the same pedestal with some of the other 3s I've been giving. I like R.E.M. a lot though. Give them a year or two, they’ll come around.
4/5
Bro I went through an identity crisis with this album, because I LOVED it. There was not a single moment when I was bored or waiting for it to end. "She's Electric" was my stand out and the comment section of my "Wonderwall" tweet was popping.
I was very very close to giving it a 5 because I really had no issues with it. But unlike the singular 5 I've given, or the 5s I plan to give, it didn't quite hit that sweet spot in my brain. I really did love it though. I will keep returning.
John Martyn
3/5
Bruh what the H I liked this a lot. This is my shiitake mushrooms. My cup of earl grey with a splash of OJ. The crack to my cocaine. Solid Air was so sweet and Don't Want To Know and The Man In The Station were just so so pleasant. I can't give this a concrete 4 in good conscious but this album truly exceeded my expectations.
Booker T. & The MG's
2/5
I was feeling critical so I chose this to make myself feel important after I moved my cursor over the second star and hit "vote" with the confidence of a male entering a bar wearing khakis and a flannel over a gray hoodie. But I liked it more than anticipated. I was toggling between a 2 or 3, because it started out promising, but lost it towards the end. I would give it a 2.5, but I can't quite bring myself to give it a 3, so we're back where we started.
Moves made: 2
Girls talked to: -5
"Ooh she's bad": 43
Arctic Monkeys
4/5
This would be a 4 had I not already known Arctic Monkeys and really liked their other albums. It was well done and, on par with everyone's sentiments, Mardy Bum is a stand out. I'll probably come back, but it didn't stand out.
John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers
2/5
I will always remember this album because I put it off for 2.5 years and it was just as boring as I expected it to be.
Incredible Bongo Band
3/5
I finally did it. I finally listened to the Bongo Album. Yet, it lacked the bongos.
Chicago
3/5
I didn't love it nor did I consider any songs worth coming back to, but I'm not going to deny that this was a well-produced album. God the instrumentals were fantastic, so I was pleased that for once it was the forefront.
Michael Kiwanuka
4/5
Yeah Piano Joint has absolutely zero business existing like that
Ian Dury
1/5
This man has absolutely zero game
Earth, Wind & Fire
3/5
Muddy Waters
3/5
This is good music. I found it enjoyable and easy to listen to. Would I rush back? Probably not, but I expect to hear Mannish Boy when I burst through the saloon doors in South Dakota’s hottest club, Shooting Star.
Gang Starr
4/5
Good beats, non-exploitative lyrics, well-regarded but just obscure enough. Bring back ‘90s hip-hop because this was so worth the hype.
David Gray
2/5
I got through it, it wasn’t bad. But I wouldn’t put it above a meal of salt and pepper chicken, boiled potatoes, and slightly over cooked broccoli, completed with a small bowl of wet vanilla pudding. It wasn’t anything worth coming back to.
The Notorious B.I.G.
4/5
There’s a reason they call him Big Poppa, because daddy delivers every time. I can’t give this a 5, but it feels wrong putting this and Step In the Arena on the same pedestal, because it’s evident they are not. I’ll just repent my sins when I go to hell.
Run-D.M.C.
1/5
I had to listen to this album twice because I couldn't decide if it was a 1 or 2. I didn't initially hate it, which is why I wanted to give it a 2, but it fell off towards the end, and the second time through was so so painful. Wake Up and onwards were straight cheeks, but Rock Box surprised me, I wasn't expecting rock and old-school hip hop to work like that. Regardless, I'd feel less remorse underrating than overrating, so I'm sorry RUN DMC, but I'm a self-interested b*tch.
The Who
3/5
It gave the Beatles, which surprised me considering the only music I’ve listened from The Who prior to this was you-know-what. It was solid, but nothing more than that. I will, however, be consistently returning to I Don’t Mind; that’s a pretty song.
Various Artists
3/5
I have an aversion towards Christmas music, but I appreciate the tradition and nostalgia of the Ronettes. God do I love celebrating capitalism.
4/5
Should I ever return to Amsterdam and do shrooms with the same mfs in the same shitty hostel at the same cluttered desk of crushed Heineken cans, a half drunken espresso, and a disassembled “spliff” (there was zero green, only tobacco), “Within You Without You” will most certainly be blaring on full blast from a busted laptop. Otherwise, this would be a 3 for me, but it is Sgt. Pepper’s and “A Day in the Life” is truly a masterpiece.
The Only Ones
1/5
I don’t think I can sufficiently express my dissatisfaction with how dull and pathetic those 41 minutes and 53 seconds felt. Perhaps I’m just going through it at the moment, but this nearly made me call my therapist. I don’t even believe in therapy.
The Saints
3/5
I’ve established that punk is not my cup of tea, but this brew did not give give off the soggy stench of hot diaper. I got whiffs of R.E.M., which I believe did the trick for me. Guitarist gets the Secret Sauce Award, he was really putting in the work, especially in “No, Your Product”. I’m feeling generous tonight, but if this generator gives another punk album, I might just have to call it quits.
Tortoise
2/5
Cute, but it felt forced, so no. Glass Museum stood out, but like this album, nothing I would come back to. Maybe to help me sleep?
Wilco
3/5
Enough twang without going full zang. In other words, my expectations were exceeded. Star down for overstaying its welcome though.
A Tribe Called Quest
4/5
This would be the music played at a trendy, millennial gastropub in the South End called the Gallows. You can’t hear the lyrics, but it’s Thursday night, the lights are low, and your exorbitant Negroni tastes sophisticated because you don’t know any better, so it’s a damn good beat. Anytime now, the man perched next to you at the bar will emulate passion of William Wordsworth’s acute depiction of the human condition in The Prelude and how sobering an effect the recent profile of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie in the New Yorker will have on the next generation. Oh how I love taking comfort in the annals of American expressionism. 3.5/5
Bee Gees
4/5
I did not expect this from the Bee Gees. In sharp contrast to Stayin' Alive and More Than A Woman, it was wistful, melancholy, and pretty, nearly every song hitting that spot and scratching that itch simultaneously. A comforting, familiar pain, you know? I can't come up with anything clever or witty at the moment, I just want to know the next album because untitled2 so shamelessly assumed I would enjoy it. Let's hope they're correct.
Sleater-Kinney
1/5
Untitled2 can sml by baiting me like that. I could not tell if he was being genuine or if he thought pointing out that I was listening to ANOTHER punk album sung by two lesbians would make me teehee like a hyena (I did not). For reference, I historically do not enjoy punk and untitled2 has falsely accused me on numerous occasions of dressing like a lesbian. Turns out he were a day behind and was actually referring to Trafalgar, which was sweet because I did really like that album. I have nothing to say about this one though, since all I heard was ear splitting wailing that really did not feel fervent or angsty, just pathetic. God that hurt to admit, because untitled2 is a misogynist and this just gives him more fuel to add to the fire.
King Crimson
5/5
Oh I liked this. I liked this a lot. If there's anything I'm a sucker for, it's 10+ min songs that kind of keep dragging, but when done well, feel like a soundtrack to your life. "21st Century Schizoid Man" is going on my 'me' playlist, because no doubt will I shamelessly bulldoze anyone who attempts to cross paths me when it comes on.
Lauryn Hill
4/5
All I can think of when listen to Ms. Lauryn Hill is Ayva Grace Holden aka Ms. Brooklyn. Daring, brazen, and influential, she holds you in trance and you aren't quite sure if you even want to be set free. You may not know who she is, but you wish you did. She may not know who you are, but you wish she did. She, she, she— just kiss me already!
Deep Purple
2/5
I wish I enjoyed this more. It felt like background music that I was just waiting to get through so I could listen to something better. I really don't know what else to say.
Jah Wobble's Invaders Of The Heart
2/5
This sounds like something my dad would listen to, I didn't dislike it. I felt like I was on vacation in the DR but that something was off. Perhaps it was the rice and beans I ate earlier or maybe I took the tequila too fast. It could also be the restlessness in the air that often accompanies the threat of revolution. This could be my chance to change the world: I single-handedly dismantle Dominican democracy and install the Taco Bell Chihuahua as the new leader. Regardless, it served its purpose as background music exceedingly well, but I won't be coming back anytime soon. Or maybe ever.
Todd Rundgren
3/5
I was expecting more because "Hello? It's Me" from Something / Anything? is a great song, but they can't be considered on par with each other. I actually don't think this experimentation campaign was poorly executed. There were some tracks that tickled my toes, especially towards the end, but it wasn't there for me collectively.
The Sabres Of Paradise
2/5
Idk man my feet are itchy
Black Sabbath
3/5
I’m not going to act like I’m better by saying I liked this a lot. I actually listened to and really enjoyed Master of Reality because “Solitude” is a fantastic song, but this didn’t have as much Personality (notice the capital “p”). But this is good music, I’m going to at least give myself that credibility.
Sly & The Family Stone
3/5
I enjoyed my morning cup of joe at the breakfast table while listening to Sex Machine, and it was so so pleasant. But under that pretty, idealistic scene was the presence of something dark and sinister. Bro was fighting for his LIFE there. In the most condescending way possible, I wanted to orgasm for him so that he would stop, because that shit was exhausting me as well.
Once again, I felt little attachment to this. Maybe it's because I'm selective, which I don't think is a bad trait, but I'm beginning to question if I'm as musically woke as I think I am.
Deep Purple
4/5
Yo wait I liked this a lot. Equivalent with the general consensus, Child in Time is fantastic, and it’s probably why I’m giving this four stars because I absolutely will be coming back to it. I’m also not going to contend the possibility that I’ll come back to this album as a whole, because the instrumentals are amazingly cohesive and precise. I don’t know, perhaps the pasta I ate for dinner put me in an insufferably positive state of mind. Don’t kill it for me.
Fairport Convention
3/5
I’m going to cave and give this a 3. Folk-rock is not my genre, but I think this was well done and is significantly better and thoughtful than some of the aggressively mediocre trash I’ve given a 2. Tam Lin is noteworthy and Crazy Man Michael is beautiful, I’ll be coming back to them. Also, based on the photo provided on Spotify, I want to grab a pint with these guys, they seem like an absolute riot. I would also like to point out I was listening to this while prepping and roasting potatoes. Do what you will with that.
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
4/5
I can see why Neil Young's decision to take his entire discography off Spotify stirred such a commotion, because I'm really upset I can't add "My My, Hey Hey" to my playlists. I always knew YouTube Premium was the way to go. But my guy Neil is so right, it's better to burn out than fade away, and he certainly embodied that. I liked this a lot more than anticipated; there's always that one part of the chorus in every song that scratches an itch just right. He's a great songwriter and the acoustics are fantastic, I'm looking forward to more Neil Young (and maybe some Joni Mitchell too? Both Sides Now? What the heck?)
The Smashing Pumpkins
3/5
I was so set to initially give this a 2 because holy Jesus I was fighting for my life there at the start. But thank goodness, because the turning point was at Disarm when those strings and those bells slapped me dumb across the face, which is what characterized Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness so distinguishably for me (I'm fully aware it came after Siamese Dream, my point still stands regardless). And I'm happy they began hitting on every emotion, because Soma and Spaceboy were fantastically modest yet intense simultaneously, and Greek U.S.A just went hard. Based only on the latter 2/3 of the album, this would be at least a 4, no question. But I have to go down one because they blew it in the beginning.
Steely Dan
3/5
Oh baby did this send shivers down my spine. Dirty Work is iconic, Kings and Turn That Heartbeat Over Again are hidden gems, and Do It Again is in my top 50. This was just good. I needed this.
Mariah Carey
2/5
Not my genre and I genuinely believe I would have rested peacefully in my grave without it. There was zero nostalgia nor any songs I’m going to run back. No shade though, I didn’t think it was bad and she does have a great voice.
The Everly Brothers
2/5
Great voices and the music isn't bad, but it lacks character. Also women were not made to love that is so misogynistic and anti-based. If either of them asked me on a date, I would vehemently reject them and throw cantelope chunks at their balls.
Aretha Franklin
4/5
Some real gems here. I’m talking about (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman and Ain’t No Way. The latter even brought it up an entire star. I love women. Hehe :)
Santana
3/5
I listened to this for the third time while eating sh*tty beef noodle soup alone in the dining hall. They also had the Food Network on the big screen. Kind of a vibe.
The Specials
2/5
It's been a lifelong dream of mine to brag to people that I listened The Specials' The Specials album.
The Pogues
2/5
Man nothing like some jolly Celtic punk in the wee hours of the morn.
The Byrds
2/5
I really did not need to listen to this album before I am sedated, tossed in the back of a white van, and whisked to an undisclosed location so that my kidnapper can perform predatory actions on my feet in peace. That's when I would just call it quits.
What I'm trying to say: This album has no reason being here and I was doing just fine without it. Thank you for coming to my TED talk.
Fred Neil
2/5
I would call this vanilla: reliable, not bad at all, yet fails to incite any form of zeal in my already malnourished and hollow bowels. But I like vanilla, so I'm going to allegorize 'Fred Neil' to chocolate instead, vanilla's more popular counterpart. Bit counterintuitive, but life's a little boring when void of petty disarray, don't ya think?
Van Morrison
2/5
I asked someone to give me albums to listen to some time ago and every single one they recommended was fantastic, except for this one. I actually put this one off for a few months for some arbitrary reason, and instead of being transcended into another dimension and seeing Jah, I found it tasteless and boring. Even 'Into the Mystic' didn't raise the hairs under my chinny-chin-chin. I don't know music like Quinn does, so maybe the matter of the fact is that I'm just an uncultured swine.
Michael Jackson
3/5
Going to be real with y'all, I put this on as background music and it served its purpose well. Yeah I know he and this album are iconic, and Rock with You is a great song, but like...it was alright. Nothing stuck out to me, even though it was a good album overall. Also, mouth noises make me very uncomfortable, which I feel like he's really good at, so his intense panting and gasping in 'Workin' Day and Night' sparked a ferocity in me I didn't know existed. You better be thanking Jesus in your prayers tonight.
Weather Report
2/5
I listened to this album twice without realizing. Not because it was good, but because it was exceedingly meh yet not horrendous enough to take note of it. I appreciate instrumental music, it offers the opportunity to actually focus on the sound rather than to merely relegate them as backdrop to vocals and lyrics. But it has to be done exceptionally well and this was not exceptional.
Sinead O'Connor
3/5
Diet Enya
The Undertones
2/5
I don't know why I originally considered giving this a 3 it's not that great.
Neil Young
3/5
I knew you all would come around :)
The B-52's
2/5
You know those videos of some bimbo with a mic stopping random people to ask what song they're listening to? What if that happened to me today as I was walking to class, RBF and purposeful lesbian-walk fully activated, and in the most deadpan tone possible, I responded with, "Rock Lobster by the B-52s". God, I can only imagine the number of OHill furries that would come flocking to me.
This album reminds me of a low point in my life. I'm talking about when I listened to Sleater-Kinney. This would be a 1, but I'd like to leave The B-52s under the false impression that their music was revolutionary when it really wasn't. I do have a tendency to lead people on.
Iggy Pop
2/5
Sorry Mr. Burns, I know 'The Passenger' is your ultimate villain song, but all I can think about is driving through endless wheat fields in bumf*ck Iowa. It's a really good cross-country roadtrip song, but I've done that once before and I don't really see the need to do it again, because that sh*t kind of suckeddd. I'm sad because I expected more from this album, but I was left disliking it more than I did at the start. How does that even happen.
Bob Dylan
3/5
Not my sound, was going to give it a 2, but 'Ballad of a Thin Man' convinced me otherwise, because that song has been on repeat all afternoon. I appreciated this overall though, I wouldn’t put it past myself to come back to Mr. Bob soon.
Jerry Lee Lewis
2/5
I didn't dislike it, but I didn't like it very much either. Thank goodness for short albums like these, I don't wish to get another 'Made in Japan' anytime soon.
David Bowie
3/5
No this was not sensational nor did it particularly stick out. But that doesn't mean I was bored and that I didn't come away without any highlights. I explicitly refer to 'The Prettiest Star' and 'Lady Grinning Soul'.
3.5, I liked it a lot, but at least I possess a greater confidence in my ratings for Bowie's better albums. God the anticipation for 'The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars' is just so palpable.
Frank Zappa
3/5
YEAAAAAA BOIIIIII I LOVE FRANK ZAPPA. This man is a walking-talking-blistering-blathering poet. And he knows it. And he OWNS it. I genuinely enjoyed this top to bottom, I'm not even trying to be silly and goofy, because those riffs and solos went so hard. I only wish there were more lyrics, because I know this man spits bars just as well as he strikes chords. 'Apostrophe(')' is proof, because 'Uncle Remus' and 'Stink-Foot' have absolutely ZERO business coexisting like that. This absolutely would be a 4, but I'm going to have to go down one because I know it would be that much better with lyrics.
On a side note, everyone go listen to 'Billy the Mountain' right now if you are fiending for 20 minutes of pure bliss. That song basically encapsulates my freshman year: a beautiful disaster.
Stevie Wonder
2/5
Mid. I forgot I was listening to it.
Pearl Jam
2/5
When I listened to Ten for the first time about a year ago, I was furious. Because after years of listening to my father blather about witnessing Pearl Jam rehearse in a dingy Seattle warehouse before seeing them perform that night in the "best concert I've ever been to", I expected my socks to be violently yanked off my feet and yossed into a different dimension.
But naur.
The very second "Release" ended, I said out loud in the Lower Level of W.E.B Du Bois library, "THIS? This is what's got everyone's knickers in a knot?" And thus marked the beginning of my descent into an anti-Pearl Jam ethos, because holy moly it was so boring and so unextraordinary. I truly couldn't come up with a reason as to how they set themselves apart from the rest of the emo-grunge-punk garbage that we all know I love so much.
A year later, after taking some time to myself to really explore and attune my ear to substantial music, my sentiments have only barely budged. I really wanted to give this a 1 for my initial sheer disappointment, but it's not atrocious enough to relegate that from me. I still don't get it though.
Nirvana
3/5
Listened to this on the toilet. 2pm sh*t went so hard.
At the same time, however, Nevermind was never an album I was attached or particularly impressed by. I can listen to it and enjoy it, but as an active member of APA (Anti-Penis Association), I will not be plastering a 24”x36” poster of that baby and his schlong on my pretty green walls.
“Come as You Are” and “Something in the Way”. I know, I’m a basic b*tch.
Jane's Addiction
2/5
Both my dad and I were waiting for this to be over, which says a lot because a) he chose this over the other option I gave him and b) the man knows and appreciates rock/metal. He even thinks I can be a bit harsh with my ratings but he agreed with me here. We both liked "Idiots Rule" though, because "at least it has trumpets".
By the way, the other option I gave him was Destroyer by KISS.
Red Hot Chili Peppers
3/5
I had to listen to this three times to solidify my rating. I was never into the Chili Peppers, but this exceeded my expectations, which was admittedly not very high, however, that's beside the point. I was this close to giving it a 4, but it really didn't impress me that much and it kind of fell off towards the end. And the only songs I'll probably come back to are 'Scar Tissue' and 'Otherside', so the lack of nuance there should speak for itself.
Public Enemy
2/5
I thought I would hate this but I didn't. So what does that say about society.
Dwight Yoakam
2/5
This gave me zero utility
Barry Adamson
3/5
There were some really beautiful and well-produced tracks here ('In A Moment of Clarity' and 'The Big Bamboozle') and then there were others that were incomprehensibly horrid and put me in a depressive episode. I'm torn, because this wasn't a good album. Their attempt to be creatively groundbreaking and attune to the dichotomy of the human condition felt forced at times and incohesive. But there were certainly highlights I would like to return to. Also, brownie points for album title itself. Sounds like something I have said and I appreciate that.
Hole
2/5
3 March 2023: I'm still deciding on my rating. I might need to listen a third time.
21 August 2023: When I came across Celebrity Skin while going through my master list, a slight jolt of panic went through me--I was afraid that I gave this a 3 when I couldn't recall a single song or a beat, let alone remember if I even listened through it all the way. Thank goodness I ignore my problems when I'm indecisive.
The Stooges
1/5
I listened to this like three times and never rated because I couldn't determine whether this was a two or worthy of a one. But the idea of listening to this a fourth time makes me want to shove toothpicks straight into my earballs, so I feel like this rating is warranted.
Eminem
2/5
Why do artists think it's artistic / creative to include dick-sucking tracks on an album? I can not believe I have to sit through that, because that sh*t is just so uncalled for and so unnecessary. I was enjoying this until that came on, it really pissed me off.
N.W.A.
2/5
I mean I didn't hate it. I just don't see a reason to come back.
Dr. Dre
2/5
This served it's role as background noise very well. No shade, just not my genre. 'Deeez Nuuuts' carried, and it's not even good.
Tracy Chapman
3/5
I know and love 'Fast Car', so I was expecting the rest of the album to also impress me. It didn't, it just kind of exists unremarkably and without sparking much controversy. I didn't dislike it, but exceedingly average results is failure in my book.
Metallica
2/5
Besides their two biggest hits, nothing else mattered here. Perhaps heavy metal doesn't really fit the vibe I'm going for as I write a history essay while wearing low-rise jeans and a paisley head-scarf. It was a lot of nothing really.
Nine Inch Nails
2/5
I forgot I experienced this album. Based on the opening track, I thought, "F this sh*t bro why do I still do this to myself." As much as I wanted to give this a 1, I wasn't cringing at every moment. It basically means I affirm that banging on undisclosed, non-conventional-instrumental objects and shrieking fervently is considered valid music. That's pretty pathetic.
Shack
4/5
I genuinely wanted to switch it up as soon as I began listening, but couldn’t because I really didn’t feel a need to. I liked it a lot actually! I don’t know for what reason I’d return, this isn’t really my genre, but I feel like I will. ‘Pull Together’ brought this up an entire star.
Drive-By Truckers
3/5
You know what, this is an interesting concept and I think it was executed relatively well. It was originally written as a semi-autobiographical screenplay on growing up in the South, covering race politics and most importantly, Lynyrd Skynyrd. Personally, I love Lynyrd Skynyrd and the guitar part of "Free Bird" so I have zero complaints there, and the music itself was solid as well. I would totally return to listen more closely to the whole shebang, because I think they are addressing some serious sh*t.
Lupe Fiasco
2/5
POV cillian murphy watching adrien brody give the longest speech in oscar history
Nick Drake
3/5
I fear Mr. Nick might have ate here.
KISS
3/5
Honestly, I have nothing to complain about—they have a good sound, and it surprised me. The issue is that in the very unlikely chance I only listened to it half-heartedly because I was on RT-2 on a Thursday at 4pm the day after I get my wisdom teeth removed…I won’t reallyyyyy be itching to listen to it again. Do remember though that heavy metal is not really my genre.
The Stone Roses
3/5
Based on 'I Wanna Be Adored' and 'Don't Stop', I expected to like this a lot more than I actually did. I think it started out strong, but it really fell off towards the end. Shame, because I was really excited for this to my new album.
The Rolling Stones
4/5
I actually really wanted to be Mick Jagger this past Halloween because my hair worked out quite conveniently and I do love the Stones. His voice kind of reminds me Neil Young's, it lowkey kind of sucks, but his songs make up for it. This one's a keeper; 'Sway' and 'Sister Morphine' were my highlights.
And by the way, Mick Jagger is not Kesha's dad. Do not let untitled2 fool you with such damaging misinformation.
Parliament
2/5
Sick album cover though
Doves
4/5
It's been a long time coming, but Adam and I finally agreed on something! But this more than pleasantly surprised me, even though it wasn't particularly extraordinary. Even when I thought a song was going to be the dealbreaker for me, it somehow always pulled through.
M.I.A.
3/5
'Paper Planes' is iconic and most of these are stand-alone bangers, but listening to one after the other is a sensory overload. I think it's good and I appreciate that it's included, because this type of music doesn't frequent the list, but I didn't love this album as an entity.
Blood, Sweat & Tears
3/5
This was all over the place and relatively unremarkable, but it was solid and I enjoyed it for what is was. It also put me in my feels because Gymnopedie No. 1 is on the Barnard playlist I made my senior year of high school so that I could envision myself walking through Morningside Heights to my Women in Revolutions class, headscarf in hair and matcha latte in hand, as I listen to the Velvet Underground through wired headphones. Oh what could have been.
Led Zeppelin
4/5
I love Led Zeppelin I love Led Zeppelin I freaking love them. There is at least one song on every album that never fails to scratch an itch in my earballs just right ('Babe I'm Gonna Leave You'). I can't in good conscious give this a 5 while informed that Led Zeppelin IV exists and still requires my validation. But this is a very high four, no doubt I will be second guessing myself.
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
4/5
The only reason I'm switching to Apple Music is so I can listen to Neil Young. Maybe that will fill the empty hole in my soul.
5/5
I originally refrained from rating this because I wasn't sure if I was ready to give my second 5 star, or if this even qualified as a 5 star album. I don't know how many I've listened to this album, but it never ceases to impress me each time. "Five Years" is the best song, because what a way to begin an album. And then "Moonage Daydream", "Starman", "It Ain't Easy", and "Rock 'n' Roll Suicide". It just keeps going.
Amy Winehouse
4/5
She knew what was up.
Kate Bush
3/5
I listened to this album over the summer expecting to love it because 'Running Up That Hill' is one of my favorite songs of all time. But oh goodness. Her voice is kind of cringy, the songs almost have too much character, and it's just so...80s. It's all over the place and weird. "Jig of Life" was so uncalled for.
I relistened to it and I'm at the same conclusion. Settling in the middle because it's not that bad and 'Running Up That Hill' is a 6 star track, but this would be a two otherwise.
Also now I have to prepare for a slew of shit albums since we got like 3 hits in a row. What a sh*t show.
Green Day
1/5
One word to describe this album and that is its name.
I wish I could give this negative stars.
The Killers
3/5
I don’t hate The Killers, I just hate “Mr. Brightside”
Elbow
3/5
Good study music and not too bland. "Some Riot" stood, but that's about it.
Randy Newman
2/5
The only time I’m going to think about this album is when I think about Max thinking about this album. I’m sorry man, but not all of us can be culturally astute like you.
MGMT
3/5
Was going to give a 2 but "Of Moons, Birds & Monsters" is better than "Siberian Breaks" , and that's an incredible song.
fIREHOSE
2/5
At least it was only 30 mins and I could treat it as background music without feeling guilty.
The Jesus And Mary Chain
2/5
This was really lame
Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
1/5
Damn shame because I would've given this a 2 had it been shortened by an hour. But I listened to this whole shebang top to bottom, so I deserve to give this a 1.
The Strokes
4/5
Each song on this album was a standalone banger-I had zero issue with and wouldn't skip any of them. However, there needs to be distinction within albums, and everything here kind of became conflated with each other. To be honest, even if some of the songs sounded differently, I still don't think I would've given it 5. I did really like "Barely Legal" and "Take It Or Leave It".
Fleetwood Mac
5/5
Easiest 5 stars I will ever give. I don't think there's anything else that needs to be said.
Billy Joel
5/5
This and Abbey Road are probably my most nostalgic albums. My parents' had their first dance to "Just the Way You Are" and requested it at every restaurant we went to on their anniversary. I know "Movin' Out" by heart, and you can bet your tight ass that I give one hell of a karaoke performance to it. And "She's Always a Woman" is just beautiful. Sentimentality aside, Billy Joel is a great musician with an even better voice. There are so many bangers here and they hit in their own way. It's a really good album.
Tom Waits
1/5
I say a lot of things here that exaggerate my actual emotions to either invoke a reaction or justify a poor review towards a mediocre album, but I don't think I've ever felt so much discomfort and disgust while listening to music. There was so much fluid and non-solid sensation violating my earballs that I literally dry-heaved during breakfast. For reference, vocal fry is my biggest pet peeve of all time, so while some might appreciate Waits' guttural, gravelly, gross voice, it makes me want to throw myself off the top floor of the library. Just refer to the album, he looks like a wet-mouthed, stinky iPad baby who's going to give me thirty different types of diseases when he opens his mouth. Jesus I'm still shuddering.
The Cure
3/5
Epitome of a 3: I didn’t dislike anything, but there wasn’t anything special to it either.
On a side note, I think it would be so fun and chaotic if we could reply to reviews. I think all of us have additional reactions and thoughts on our fellow collaborators’ reviews that we’d like to get off our chest. This is mostly so I can defend myself against Adam for such damning accusations. Regardless, a little harmless discourse never hurt anyone.
Motörhead
2/5
Not my favorite brew, but refreshing compared to the beta albums I've recently been subjected to.
Tim Buckley
2/5
Mm. He’s someone I enjoy looking at—he’s very cute—and he’s a talented musician, but I know that underneath that angular jaw, that sweet smile, and the floof of hair that frames his face surprisingly well, there really isn’t much to be entranced by. He doesn’t seem very interesting, or he may think he’s interesting, but he’s actually more interested in the notion that he is inherently profound and mysterious because he likes to contemplate existentialism while snorting heroin and kissing five girls at one time. It’s a bit tacky for my taste. I feel this exact way about his album.
The Stooges
2/5
Instrumentals were fine, but vocals were fairly reminiscent of Ian Drury, and that's just not ok.
The Allman Brothers Band
2/5
I listened to this and enjoyed it for what it was, and I'm going to move forward with my life unaffected. No shade though. I actually knew the studio version of "In Memory of Elizabeth Reed". Why it's in my library I have no idea. Just another aspect of my life that I really can't nor feel the need to explain.
Beatles
3/5
My goofy 10 year old ahh wanted to play the violin when we were choosing which instruments to play in 6th grade because of "Eleanor Rigby". I actually went into this album with no clue of what I wanted to give. I loved it as a wee lass, but re-listening to it with evolved ears convinced me otherwise. "Here, There and Everywhere" is my new favorite and "I'm Only Sleeping" is really freaking annoying and should be exterminated from the face of the Earth. This the first time I really want to give half a star. I kind of feel bad.
I ended up playing the cello by the way.
The Modern Lovers
2/5
Lyrics are shit, vocals make me visibly cringe, and was just really weird. It really does sound like a bunch of emo, misfit dudes from Natick got together in someone's garage, made this album, then nodded at each other afterwards and said "yeah this is really good". It's a 2, but a high one, because it hit at certain times. Does that mean anything though?
Frank Sinatra
3/5
Things I needed today: this album, a double dosage of Adderall, and Zoloft. (Spoilers: I did not get 2/3 of those things.)
Sonic Youth
4/5
Reconfirmed my faith in this project because I found a new go-to. "Dirty Boots" makes my head bob and "Disappearer" is insane. The star down is for the industrial noise which I simply don't appreciate anywhere except for the Caretaker's "Everywhere at the End of Time".
Blondie
3/5
Sooo woman
Black Sabbath
3/5
Wtf this was actually really good. I'll be taking away "Wheels of Confusion / The Straightener" and "Changes". I also want to say something clever regarding "Changes" being the perfect drive-into-the-sunset-with-the-windows-down moment at the end of an A24 film (there's a shot of the main protagonist on the side mirror gazing introspectively out the window with a soft smirk plastered across their vanilla face), but I don't have the energy to search for the right adjectives or come up with a backstory at the moment.
Kanye West
4/5
I avoided Kanye my entire life due to his lackluster reputation as a decent member of society, but I started listening to him last year when I accidentally listened to 808s & Heartbreak. When I say I accidentally listened to a whole ass album, I played "Welcome to Heartbreak" with the intention of only listening to "Welcome to Heartbreak". And then "Heartless" came on, then "Amazing", then "Love Lockdown", and before I knew it, I had gone through the whole album. The worst part was that I really liked it. So yes, Kanye is a piece of shit and him and his fan base infuriate me. But he makes damn good music.
I thought "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy" was overrated the first time I listened back in September. I didn't think all the hits were even that good. But I've been listening to "So Appalled" all year, and that has yet to get old. Upon the most recent listen, however, I appreciated it a lot more. I can't articulate why though.
More importantly, I can't believe he sampled King Crimson in "POWER". That's crazy that I recognized "21st Century Schizoid Man" (bless this generator for introducing me to King Crimson), but it also makes so much sense.
Blur
2/5
75% of this album’s vocals and instrumentals sounded like a once awkward, prepubescent teen who developed fresh confidence after growing 6 inches over the summer, yet failed to impress the popular girl upon arriving back at school because he’s a late bloomer and his voice is still playing catch-up. What I’m trying to say is this album had some real highs—“Beetlebum” is fantastic and “Strange News from Another Star” more than pleasantly surprised me. But sorry luv, I need the complete package deal if you really want to impress me, because even your angst and newfound defiance towards authority won’t cut it.
Badly Drawn Boy
4/5
Like Elliott Smith, but spicier, as if King Crimson co-wrote the album. In other words, I loved it.
Cornershop
2/5
This was the album on the day of Honor's graduation, and Max was listening to it when he drove Adam and I to the ceremony. But do you know what I was thinking during the whole 4 minute drive from Northeast to Mullins? What if someone who wasn't on the generator--who had never listened to Haunted Dancehall or Rising Above Bedlam--got into my car and was forced to listen to "Butter the Soul" under the impression that this is the type of music I voluntarily listen to. I would be impeached if I put anyone from the volleyball team through that. But in the very off-chance that Max was unironically listening to Cornershop for his own peace of mind, I still wouldn't blink an eye. Also, I strongly considered giving this a 3 because it was so strange and so memorable, but I persevered and refrained from the intrusive thoughts this time.
The Pogues
3/5
What is everyone's aversion to Irish folk, because I'm so dead serious when I say that I loved this. I was in a good mood the whole time. I'd like to grab a couple of pints with these guys- they seem like they know how to have a really good time.
Lana Del Rey
2/5
This confirmed the arbitrary nature of the list because why this one instead of Born to Die or Norman Fucking Rockwell!? Say what you want about them, but if you're going to include a Lana album, at least choose something that was actually influential. This wasn't even good so now I'm confused and upset.
The Kinks
2/5
Given the reputation these hairy ding-dongs have, I expected more. Instead we got the Diet Beatles but it's the generic kind and 8 months expired.
Ramones
1/5
I feel like I listened to the same bland, cringy song 14 times. I really didn’t like it.
Gene Clark
2/5
“Strength of Strings” is a keeper, but pretty unremarkable in general. Top 5 in album covers though. I’d hang this on my wall regardless of its lackluster musical composition.
Mike Ladd
2/5
Not good, but not shitty enough. Also, this dude went to Hampshire College so that should explain some things.
Talking Heads
3/5
Would have been a 4 if they didn't sound...nah I'm not going to say it.
The Black Keys
3/5
Millennial music
The Go-Go's
2/5
How feminist of me
Fatboy Slim
2/5
The question is whether I would turn up—get crunk—raise the roof, dare I say—if this came on in the club. The long answer is I wouldn’t.
The Vines
4/5
Highly Evolved is my Sail Away. I'm going to think about this album a lot.
Elton John
3/5
Took me 2 months to realize that this was a lot less groundbreaking than I hoped.
Crosby, Stills & Nash
2/5
I've listened to this album at least 16 times in an evidently fruitless attempt to pair thoughtful review with a careful rating. But each time I sit down to write, I end up throwing up my hands in frustration because I can't justify giving 3 stars after forgetting if I even listened all the way through the last time (each time I thought I hadn't yet fully did). So this is an official f-you to the album that has somehow gaslighted me more than Amy Dunne gaslit Nick Dunne in Gone Girl.
Miles Davis
2/5
But a 6 if I listened to this live while sipping an Old Fashioned.
Public Image Ltd.
1/5
Missed "Bad Baby" and "Chant" because they weren't available on Spotify, but I think I'm better human being without them.
The Go-Betweens
2/5
Fell off harder than the Bundas.
Kid Rock
1/5
I wish I could give 0 stars.
Scritti Politti
2/5
Sounds like MJ, but I like it better...?
Pink Floyd
2/5
At least we know it only goes up from here.
Curtis Mayfield
3/5
This, on the other hand, is good cooking music.
The Last Shadow Puppets
2/5
I think this could have been insane. But even from the first track, which I thought was the best, I didn't like the vocals. It reminded me too much of Brendon Urie, and I'm sorry, but I have zero tolerance for anything Panic! at the Disco related. I also thought the synchronized chorus vocals were a bit tacky and uninspiring.
What saved this album from the dregs of the barrel was the instrumentality. It was creative, captivating, and thrilling, but it's where they fell short the hardest. There were countless times when I had faith in a promising build-up that would culminate into this world-changing, eyes-rolling-into-the-back-of-my-head climax. But right as I'm about to scream for my mother, it just...went soft. I feel like they kept playing it safe when they were right on the cusp of making something really interesting and unique. I wish they had taken that risk, because now it's just making me cringe.
Tim Buckley
2/5
I reaffirm my statement in Happy Sad.
Elvis Costello
3/5
Out of the 150+ albums I need to catch up on, I chose this one because it’s only 36 minutes long. Just enough time for me to take all my clothes out the closet, get overwhelmed, and then shove it in boxes so that I can do the same thing again in 6 months.
The Velvet Underground
3/5
This made me relapse into my alter identity as an insufferable lesbian who ardently adheres to the cynicism and dissatisfaction Sylvia Plath imparts upon her readers in The Bell Jar. She is one crazy bitch, but I adore her to pieces.
Rush
2/5
This is not good cooking music. But that's exactly what it became anyway.
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
3/5
Y2K core
The xx
3/5
I always thought "Intro" was one of those royalty-free track listings in the iMovie sound library, so for the first 5 seconds, I thought I had inadvertently opened YouTube instead of Spotify and clicked on a time-lapse of a 9-year old building the LEGO Death Star in 25 hours. But this is good music to shred to. Maybe I'll make an action clip if I'm feeling ambitious.
The Youngbloods
2/5
I found passion in my dispassion towards this album.
Brian Eno
2/5
What am I supposed to make of this
Kraftwerk
2/5
YES YES YES YES
WE LOVE THE GERMANS
Janelle Monáe
4/5
I feared this would be another one of those scenarios when a celebrity pursues a completely different artistic medium to prove they not only have depth but also range. Like when Kylie and Kendall wrote a novel and it was bad. But this is a bit different, because Janelle Monae actually honed her craft. My point is, this impressed me a lot and I'm going to keep coming back to it.
Air
3/5
Quirky lyrics, mostly off-key, and every song was likely plagiarized. It sounds a little too familiar, as if I wrote and recorded it myself back when I was a self-assured six-year-old.
The Clash
3/5
You know me, punk is not my genre. But I do enjoy the Clash and they have some iconic hits here.
Duran Duran
2/5
I don't know why but I found this very annoying. Good thing they saved that prayer, because that spared them from being relegated to the worst of the worst.
CHVRCHES
2/5
If this were a person, they would have the most bland and basic personality ever.
Sex Pistols
2/5
Even if I didn't know they were British, I still can tell they have bad teeth. My friend Cristina--a grad student studying speech pathology--would be stoked to work with them.
Steely Dan
2/5
I don't really know what to say.
Tom Tom Club
3/5
I can only dream of the kind of drugs they were on while producing this. I have to hand it to them though, because they really made it work.
Kendrick Lamar
5/5
I've waited long and hard for you.
B*tch.
Arcade Fire
4/5
I have no complaints here, except that Max promised me a review and he has yet to deliver. Tsk tsk.
Coldplay
3/5
Go white boy go!!!
Kings of Leon
3/5
Not to be vulgar, but sex would be ablaze if I were doing it to "Revelry". Entire house flattened. Everything else was, as I predicted, vanilla.
Paul Simon
2/5
Please don't call me Al. It's just as cringy and unnoteworthy as the rest of this album.
DJ Shadow
2/5
And then everyone promptly filed out of the club.
Bob Marley & The Wailers
2/5
Was not—I repeat—was not jammin’ while stuck on the Clearview Expressway in the pouring rain.
Simon & Garfunkel
3/5
Soundtrack to my life if I were a Hobbit.
Justice
3/5
First half, I can be at a healthy level of drunk and groove confidently. Second half, pass the ketamine. We're gonna need some strong sh!t to keep this party going.
LCD Soundsystem
3/5
I thought I really liked this but Max convinced me otherwise. I gotta start reading up on these albums.
Tom Waits
1/5
Oh nah not this shit again
Morrissey
4/5
I'm disappointed with how much I enjoy Morrissey and The Smiths. I couldn't pick a favorite, so I feel like that says enough.
The Rolling Stones
2/5
Tough start, but I'll give these guys the benefit of the doubt. Who knows, maybe they'll produce the greatest song of all time. Maybe it'll start with a G and end with imme Shelter. Time will only tell.
ABBA
3/5
Every time I go into a records store, I sh!t you not, I never fail to see a duo of wealthy suburban girls--usually 8th or 9th graders--walking out with an ABBA album in hand. And the best part is that they spend a maximum of five minutes in that store without picking up any other records. I hope they're feeling really good about themselves.
Mike Oldfield
2/5
I was feeling charitable, but then I hit 12:01 in "Tubular Bells, Pt. II" and immediately rescinded my generosity.
David Ackles
3/5
Prime example of an unlucky, yet talented, Broadway aspirant who hoped to join Joni Mitchell and Neil Young in the big leagues of folk rock. I don’t see myself coming back, but I thoroughly enjoyed it and I think Mr. Ackles should still be acknowledged for his artistry.
Lynyrd Skynyrd
4/5
Just the guitar part of Free Bird
Nirvana
5/5
I didn't love 'Nevermind', but I can not stop listening to this. I think this is one of the few live acoustic albums where the original "produced" sound is preserved but the acoustics actually give it depth. Ultimately, this was how it was supposed to be listened...and it worked so well.
Michael Jackson
5/5
I don't know why I was waffling between a 4 and 5, this is fantastic through and through. I appreciate Billie Jean a lot more now that I'm older.
Beatles
4/5
I don't know why this was my first time listening all the way through because I like this best out of all the Beatle's albums I've heard so far. And that says a lot because I've listened to Abbey Road on vinyl (although true, please take it with a grain of irony and a dash of sarcastic pride).
2/5
In the words of untitled2, I also found it "refreshing" and quirky. But I see this only as a step and a half up from the Ramones, and I didn't like those mofos very much.
Richard Thompson
2/5
I was really excited to give this a 3 after hearing "The Calvary Cross". But I was tricked--deceived--beguiled--bamboozled, for alas, it be short the Anglo-spunk I thirst for while I slowly wither in Western Massachusetts.
Paul McCartney
2/5
12/10 for album artwork. I’d buy a canvas tote with those juicy cherries printed on it like every other basic b!tch. Otherwise, this was kinda boring. Sorry Sir Paul‼️
Bruce Springsteen
3/5
Horse manure in the air, wheat fields and tractor grease in my hair. This is what freedom feels like. God bless America!
The Police
2/5
The fact that “Every Breath You Take” was my favorite shows how annoying this album had to be.
Nirvana
3/5
Comments:
- Nothing like cracking a cold one (a Celsius) and blasting "Scentless Apprentice" at 6:45am sharp on a brisk Wednesday morning.
- Reiterating that "Heart-Shaped Box" is a fantastic song.
- If there was some underlying intent for "Rape Me" to be profound, it wasn't.
- There's a reason "Dumb" and "All Apologies" were in the Live Acoustic, and why the Live Acoustic was better.
Beatles
4/5
Abbey Road is not one of my favorites, so I can't justify giving the highest rating. But it's undeniably damn good.
New Order
4/5
Nothing compares to hearing Blue Monday five shots deep. Would’ve been six if I hadn’t spit tequila all over the bartender.
The Doors
2/5
Like Grateful Dead but bad. I couldn’t give a two rat’s ass.
Frank Ocean
4/5
I didn’t understand the hype around Frank Ocean until I listened to Pyramids (and the bonus commentary provided graciously by my friend Ayva), realizing that it is, indeed, a fantastic song. Arguably one of the greats, although Bad Religion is my personal favorite. I’m like everyone else now, patiently waiting for his third, more and more convinced that it will be as remarkable as his previous two.
The Rolling Stones
3/5
I really wanted to hang Let It Bleed on my wall, because the cover art matched my room’s aesthetic and because, most importantly, Gimme Shelter is my favorite song of all time. I listen to Gimme Shelter when I’m feeling victorious, powerful, angry, and defeated—it perfectly encapsulates whatever emotion feels the most tangible at any moment. However, the album is pretty underwhelming, so Let It Bleed will sadly not be among my wall of greats.
Ms. Dynamite
3/5
She’s just a bootleg Lauryn Hill. But it’s pretty good!
The Beach Boys
4/5
Could also be considered a compilation of every song used in a rom-com movie montage or a Vine.
Coldplay
5/5
Aside from being near perfect and one of my favorite albums ever, this holds an extra special place in my heart because I (informally) dedicated Sparks to my first love. Thanks Geophph <3
Kendrick Lamar
3/5
If the list wanted Kendrick storytelling, they should’ve waited 2 years for the album that perfectly embodied poignant lyrics and smashing hits. Did you hear he won a Pulitzer for it too?? Sh*t’s rigged.
Led Zeppelin
4/5
I originally gave it a lower score, but the last 3 songs changed my mind. I've also developed a newfound appreciation for the generator, so I guess I'm paying reparations for all the times I've exhibited hater behavior.
Elvis Presley
3/5
I mean, I would also get catty if my ex-husband was serenading his wife on stage at the PTO fundraiser (and sang better than my current one). Uh oh!
Stan Getz
4/5
This reminds me of my childhood. Also doesn't hurt that I'm relistening to it while having my little European moment--sipping a cappuccino at a cafe in the Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere on a crisp Tuesday morning. I really could get used to it.
Queen
4/5
Maturing is realizing the best song on the album is actually '39.
Beatles
5/5
I'm just as surprised as you, but I've already listened 4 times and I don't see myself stopping. It's the first Beatles album I've listened to that feels serious, from the heart, and cohesive.
5/5
Aside from Supermassive Black Hole sounding like the intro to my dad's grilling videos, this was stellar through and through. Soldier's Poem and Hoodoo were my favorites, but variation is necessary and this album captured it all. A strong reminder as to why I did this in the first place.
Dolly Parton
3/5
I justt wish her lyrics had that extra bit of depth. She's 11/10 woman though.
Lorde
2/5
Feels harsh considering Pure Heroine was my formative album. But this was just a little too Greenwich Village for my straight ass.
The Zombies
4/5
Although I can't give this a 5, this beyond exceeded my expectations. I didn't dislike any song (Hung up on a Dream almost pushed me towards giving that extra star) and the album was surprisingly cohesive. Also, Time of the Season is in the top 10 for best karaoke songs--trust me, you'll bring the house down.
Kanye West
4/5
Jeez what a prick
Tears For Fears
3/5
Oh it's iconic alright. But I knew it was time to move on to bigger and better albums when I saw my peers
in my freshman year of high school adding "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" to their oldies playlist. I KNEW IT FIRST.
Adele
4/5
I keep forgetting that she is one of the greatest, most talented artists of all time. Her music stays nostalgic but I'm ok with that because she doesn't need to prove her musical ingenuity any further (or risk damaging it). It scratches the itch in my brain just right.
David Bowie
3/5
I listened to this like three times and I still can't decide whether I'm musically inept or if this was just plain unextraordinary. Whatever, I just want this rating over with and out of the way.
Led Zeppelin
4/5
It becomes a matter of whether the Zeppelin album gets that extra star to qualify as one of the greats, because it will always be at least a 4.
The Stooges
3/5
Chose to listen to this because I want to get my average rating lower and it was only 36 mins long. But unfortunately, this exceeded my expectations so I’m not doing any real damage. It’s really a 2.5 but I’ll be generous since I’m on my second listen and not hating it.
Slade
2/5
Someone teach these mfs how to spell, I thought I was having stroke trying to sound them out aloud.
John Coltrane
4/5
Scrap every preconceived notion Miles Davis gave you about jazz because this is 10x better. I don’t understand the technicalities of jazz, but I do know that John Coltrane composed, performed, and recorded an album far more deep and complex than any I’ve personally heard. Project needle drop actually knows more about Coltrane’s background and why this album was conceived in the first place—it provides dimension you didn’t know you were looking for. Give him a ring if you’re looking for some enlightenment.
Joni Mitchell
4/5
I love Joni Mitchell, she's why I switched from Spotify to Apple Music. Now her and Neil Young are both on Spotify again and I'm still stuck with Apple's shit algorithm. Fuck you Joe Rogan.
Oh yeah hey everyone I'm back.
Silver Jews
2/5
If someone got into my car while this was playing, I'd be a little embarrassed.
New Order
3/5
This is what I’m supposed to be popping my tits and touching dicks to at the clurb.
The Slits
2/5
More like Cut by The Sluts.
The Velvet Underground
3/5
Not bad study music (aka easy to drone out, but not bad enough to the point you're begging for it to be over).
Queen
4/5
I didn’t expect to like it this much. A lot more thoughtful and sharp than A Night at the Opera even.
Sheryl Crow
3/5
I feel like the High School Music songwriters drew most of their inspiration from this album.
Pink Floyd
5/5
God this screams college.
Penguin Cafe Orchestra
4/5
I felt like I was listening to the London Philharmonic Orchestra: Cinema’s Greatest world tour album. It was pretty epic no lie.
George Jones
2/5
Reminds me of when I went to Silver Dollar City and watched a really pretty blonde twirling on stage during a Bluegrass set. Gorgeous smile, nice legs, and an even better ass. And you’re thinking, “I don’t like this, but I’m not going to look away.” That’s kind of how I feel about this album.
John Grant
4/5
Got my ears professionally checked to make sure I correctly heard a white male drop the hard r in a 21st century track. And to think I wanted to drop a 5 too!
David Bowie
4/5
Andy Warhol does sound like that can of Campbell soup.
Was going to give a 3, but it picked up towards the end.
The Electric Prunes
3/5
I didn't dislike it! I don't think it was necessarily good, but I mightttt have added 1 or 2 songs to my playlist.
Eagles
4/5
Kelly would be proud.
The Beach Boys
3/5
I never have a bad listening experience with the Beach Boys, which I believe speaks volume about the band's quality. But this isn't anything to write home about.
The Cure
3/5
Great for late night driving, but a little too long—it was the only album I could listen to driving back from Amherst. I liked it, but I wasn’t impressed.
Air
2/5
From the musical duo that brought you Alone in Kyoto even though it came out afterwards! Was this even a movie soundtrack? I would kind of like to see the film knowing that this is the music setting the scenes.
The Birthday Party
1/5
I'd rather pull someone else's hair out of my asscrack.
OutKast
3/5
Gave me a headache honestly--Ms. Jackson and B.O.B. saved it. The album cover is kind of sick though.
The xx
2/5
I don't think the album itself is a 2, but I don't understand why I had to listen to it in the first place.
While I can make sense of their titular album in the list, it wasn't even fantastic. Someone else said it best: not unpleasant, but boring and uninspiring.
Simon & Garfunkel
5/5
America is one of my favorite songs of all time, and thankfully the rest of the album matches its beauty if not transcends it.
Sufjan Stevens
3/5
Hard to imagine that Sufjan Stevens was relevant before Call Me By Your Name. I liked it, but it dragged a little too long.
Elliott Smith
4/5
Punch and Judy was in the depths of my Spotify and I'm glad it's been resurrected. Elliott Smith has a special place in my heart.
Taylor Swift
4/5
Not only is '1989' deeply nostalgic for me, but I also think it's a fire album. Star down only because the best was yet to come.
Radiohead
5/5
So many different ways I can convey my adoration for this album. But let's leave it at this--album so good I have it hanging on my wall.
Led Zeppelin
5/5
This is the album I put on when I need to feel like a badass. It's going on my wall btw.