1001 Albums Summary

Sounding dated now, not my idea of a classic.

In my collection before recommendation. Love this

Classic. I'd underestimated Courtney love

I knew this album anyway, although hadn't listened to it for a long time. Lovely blast from the past.

Not my cup of tea. Sounds like a million and one other 'artistes' of the last 10 years. Utterly pointless songs. Says nothing to me about my life.

I like the hits, but some sound like fillers.

I'm beginning to start thinking maybe I don't even like music. I don't get it. This just doesn't click with me and he whimpers more than he sings. Maybe it's just his voice I don't enjoy, whatever, I won't be adding this to my collection.

Average.

Typical nwobhm nonsense.

Loved this album when it came out, haven't listened to it for a while, good to hear it again.

Should have been called Filler.

Yeah not bad, need to give it more listens. Very Julian Cope.

Junk

Sounds liked they're trying to be someone else, 'get on it' just sounds like their big rolling stones number. Enjoyed the listen though, might listen to again.

Not their best work.

I didn't listen to this in the 80s despite knowing the singles. Listening to it again 34 years later I'm reminded why.

Classic, Perhaps his best, certainly my favourite.

It's nothing groundbreaking, it's reggae, you either like reggae or you don't. I quite enjoyed it, but wouldn't rush out to add it to my collection.

Excellent, loved the buzzcocks, so this was a really enjoyable listen.

At 39 minutes and 59 seconds, this album is a smidge under 40 minutes. Although I understand why many people love his music, for myself, this was the best thing about this album. Actually I'm lying, I skipped the last couple of tracks.

If I was in Frankie and Benny's I'd be perfectly happy if this was playing in the background. However, sat in the living room without a cheeseburger or pizza its just not the same. I think this might be designed for the generation just passed. Not my cup of tea, but relaxing background music.

I like Bob Dylan. I just hate the harmonica.

No debating, it's a classic. That is all.

Soulless pet shop boys.

I'm familiar with trout mask replica, so I feared the worse, but this wasn't half bad, I quite enjoyed it. Definitely worth a second listen.

I had this on vinyl many years ago. It's got some nice tunes on it, but it's not a keeper I don't think.

Not a bad album, great voice obviously. Effortless. But her songs aren't really my thing.

Harmless enough, but slightly hum drum. Charming songs wouldn't turn the radio off if they came on, but wouldn't add it to my collection.

I'm really trying, but it's just dated drivel now isn't it? It might've been revolutionary at the time, but it's pretty tiresome now. I'm certain if I'd have been 15 or 16 in 1971 I'd have been right on board with this, but I was minus 2.

Wish 'Massive Attack'.

Is this music? Only decent track ironically. Never appealed back in the day, lazy vocal style over grunge backing doesn't appeal. Recognised many tracks, think gave this a fair crack but didn't hit the spot.

Oooh, why is it so shouty, and why are they so angry, you can barely make out the lyrics, there isn't even a melody to most of them. Nick Cave was obviously very unhappy when he was younger.

Don't judge an album by it's cover hey? Seen this a million times and always assumed it would be sultry, bluesy, deep, meaningful and interesting.

It's very bluesy. As one might expect. If you enjoy blues music recorded quite badly, this will be right up your street.

In the collection already. Haven't heard for a while so good to give it a spin again.

Seeing this pop up on my recommendation today pleased me. I love lots of electronic music. Many of my top songs are similar in style. William Orbit Strange Cargo 3 being one of my favourite. I've heard some orbital stuff before and liked it (halcyon etc). But this sounds like I feared it might. I teach KS1 kids in primary school how to use an app called remixlive, to understand the concept of adding loops, creating digital files, saving and sharing them. The problem is, most of the kids don't add any variety to their songs, they'll record several minutes of the same repetitive beats and I'll have to listen to it and tell them how they should've varied it more. That's what this album sounds like. Only it's much longer. I could only imagine enjoying this if I was in a coma, or comatose, which I think is how most people (who rave about it [pun intended]) listen to it anyway.

Bit noisy

Really quite enjoyed this, an interesting trip through well linked musical genres with some pretty funky grooves.

Ironic that it's this for valentines Day no? Not because of the word valentine, but because this is the type of music that can ruin relationships. My wife used to call this my funny farm music, which is rather rude. I still like this and although I didn't get to listen to it yesterday, I know it well and it was pretty cool for its time, not sure it's dated too well.

It's ok, bit loud for louds sake. Remember it first time round but never struck a chord then, still doesn't.

This list is making me realise how many albums I've sold. Another one I used to have. I played this one to death. Literally over listened till I was sick of it. Going to try and enjoy it again, 20 years on. Will update after listen.... After listen comments..... Yeah, bit samey. Can see why I sold it.

Ooh come on. Surely everyone's got this one. Complete classic, absolutely 5 stars.

Maybe not his best work, but certainly up there, cracking lyrics and delivery, great beats, still sounds good to this day, has aged well, although it's very dark in places.

I like the mask, but not keen on the rest, really not fond of the singles, arguably the weakest tracks on the album. I did learn Lauren hill was in sister act though, and hips don't lie should've been their hit if Lauren wasn't so stroppy.

I enjoyed this more than I expected I would. Will likely listen again. Some great tracks, but also some that made me want to skip.

Ok, so, it's a three album listen. I did quite well and made it well over an hour before I realised, but, well, it's a bit niche. Part of the hour I forgot it was on. I did think it was ok, but it reminded me of wallpaper. It's nice to have on in a room, but it's quite hard to get excited by it. I don't dislike it, but, I'd be ok if the wall was painted too. I reckon that if pop music is like super fresco, then this is more like a William Morris wallpaper. Some people get very enthusiastic about William Morris wallpaper, like the national trust, they like it, I reckon some of them would enjoy this. Could be worse, it could be wood chip, like most jazz music.

FLC gigs are the best. Usually small and intimate, Huey is a great host. Loved this since I heard the first single. Aged well. Perfect blend of chill and aggression. Still loving it today. Easy 5 stars.

Liked the bends, liked ok computer, but this is just Radiohead trying to be weird. Could be worse, could be Kid A.

Dreary. John Martyn could sap the energy out of a 10 year olds birthday party....... at Disneyland. Like many a drunkard could do.

It's funny how your tastes can change as you get older, I used to have loveless and I swear I used to enjoy listening to it. I can still understand why people enjoy it. But to be honest, I don't think it's dated that well. Just sounds like noise now.

It's all good. But EXP is arguably the worse start to an album ever.

Ok. Another one I had on tape. Stands up well and can understand why many people love it, but music is unique and this just doesn't click with me. Love Lilac wine though. No complaints, nice listen.

I really enjoyed this. I usually hate extended play albums but after enjoying the album, I listened to another 40 odd minutes of 12" remixes. This is also the first album my wife complained I could've waited before I played it*, so we played it again. Not sure it's a 5 star classic, but definitely worth a few more listens. *She wasnt too concerned about my bloody valentine.

Classic. Perhaps not their best, but up there with them.

A Hubba bubba beep-n-deeb-y-beeby-dee-bee. Dreadful, but probably my favourite part.

It's bloody brilliant isn't it. Apart from the bonus track, that's pretty dire. You used to have to wait 25 minutes to hear that, which gave you plenty of time to get the CD out. The rest is genius though.

Not the best album for a cold day in North Wales. Reckon it sounds a million times better on a warm sunny beach with a cold beer.

Couple of classics, paint it black is a great start, starting to sound a little bit dated in parts, but a good listen I wouldn't have played without this. Enjoyable yes, classic, not sure.

I can only assume she's listening to this album for the album art. That's exactly how I felt listening to it. Slightly disappointed and waiting for it to end.

Well that was certainly interesting. Easy to see why PG, MR and PC had musical differences, it's not very Mike and the mechanics, and it's all the better for it. Will be giving another few listens to decide if it's a classic, but the battle of Epping forest stood out as a potential epic.

Lovely album, starting to sound a bit dated, but also some cutting edge sounds in here too. Enjoyable listen, will likely revisit at some point in the future.

Opening is a banger, some interesting songs but mostly fillers. Last song is proper cringe.

Ok. Really hard to judge off one listen, sounds alright. But some just sounded a bit dull.

Name one good country album and I'll give you 23 that sound exactly the same. This is one of the 23. Songs about Rodeo and pick-up trucks don't resonate with me; coming from the UK.

A bit tedious. Sometimes quite entertaining but a bit too much for me. Rather a lot of unnecessary 'attitude'. Have no problem with explicit language when it's used creatively, but this is just for controversies sake.

Sounds ok. But not a genre I'm particularly fond of.

I quite enjoyed this, 'Changes' is a classic, and 'Laguna Sunrise' was lovely, quite enjoyed the rest but it's a bit Spinal Tap in places.

Unique, very enjoyable, played it to death years ago, haven't listened for a while so good to give it another listen.

The hyperactive son of Gershwin.

It's ok. Not really into sixties pop. Time of the season is good though. Better for not having she's not there on it, can't stand that.

What a cheery start to the day. Thank goodness there are no bonus tracks. Not his most upbeat work. Read the wiki (and more) while listening to it this time, I already knew the album very well, but it makes more sense as a rock opera. Not sure it helps though. Lots of memorable moments, and definitely worth another listen, but not a feelgood album. Can't listen to the last 2:30 of the kids and the last minute of the bed is a challenge, ironically 'sad song' is a welcome relief. Arguably the cheeriest song on the album, 'sad song' is a bit sixth form poetry though.

Despite their very long list of previous members I was surprised to find Jane Weaver has never been in stereolab. What I did find is that she's pretty much the same age as me and lives just down the road. That aside, this is a curious album that's definitely worthy of a few more listens before I turn to dust. First impressions are good. Ambient-Electro-folk and it sounds pretty neat. Also just noticed that the pretty pattern on the front says "Jane Weaver Modern Kosmology", which is also pretty neat. Last track 'I wish' is fab.

No surprises here. Exactly what it says on the tin. Soulful, rock n roll. But not really my cup of tea.

Bit before my time, seems like it's a bit of a cult thing, not an incredible album, just lots of very similar short songs.

What a mess. The good ones sound like Bond themes. The bad ones sound like South park movie songs.

Sounded ok from one listen. Some interesting tracks. Will give another go. Hard to judge, clearly a grower.

I love Snoop Dogg's voice, the beats are epic and this could be a very good album, but it isn't. The lyrics are tedious and predictable, the over use of 'n***a', 'bitches' & 'muthafucker'; the stupid interludes referencing drug abuse, flash cars and the obsession with 'bitches on ma dick' that every Rap album of this era seems to include that make this crap unlistenable and peurile.

At it's best, but very infrequently it sounds like a chilled out Prince song. At other times it sounds like Luther vandross, but sadly always, it sounds like background music.

Ooh, valley of the shadow is my favourite, you know the one where no one is playing any music and someone just left the recording equipment on for a few minutes while people sat around finishing off their bacon and eggs. Ooh I love that one. Give me strength. Actually with hindsight, it is one of the stronger tracks on the album. Hometime is similarly stupid. Ab/7A was ok. The rest just sounds like accidental recordings in haunted forests or photocopiers.

Yeah. Sounds alright. Hard to judge from one listen, but some interesting songs and sounds, although the horns on glorious lands don't fit. Will listen again. Enjoyed my car journey with this on. Need to give it another go on the hifi. Listened again on the Hifi later on. Sounds ok, not sure if it's something I'll really want to listen to more, but it's ok.

This is right up my street. Added to my collection, heard a fair bit of dirge from orbital, and some that I absolutely love, (illuminate is my absolute fave and I can't stand David Gray usually). Anyway, this was a great listen, not one for every day, but great end of busy week relaxing album.

Ok. So, four reasons I didn't make it to the end of this. 1) I'd heard enough, I took an educated guess there's not likely to be any songs that break the mould from what I'd heard. 2) I wasn't really enjoying it 3) I have a problem with 60s recordings of vocals, I think they all sound a bit shrill. Especially female voices, they just sound bad. And finally 4) the song from my grans funeral came on. She'd have loved this. I thought it was it was tedious though.

You get exactly what it says on the tin with the Jam. Paul Weller's slightly shouty vocals over a seventies backing track with drums and guitars. I like music that breaks a mold. This doesn't.

Bloody love the Foo Fighters. Easy 5 stars.

Let's be honest, it's Shit really.

Got halfway through, wasn't in the right mood. Sounded dreary. Like a poor man's pavement.

Quite enjoy a bit of the flaming lips. Been a while since I listened to any of their stuff. Another one perhaps worth a revisit. Going to be more telling after a few listens, but 4 seems fair from one listen.

I heard lots of good things about the Ramones. I had high hopes. This album is like an average Buzzcocks song, on repeat for half an hour. Utter crap.

I was enjoying this, but then I kind of drifted off and forgot I was listening to it. Smoky bar background music. Er, three stars, probably.

Beautiful songs, dated well. Would struggle to get a record deal nowadays with songs like this, which I guess is pretty sad. Classics on here (Suzanne/so long Marianne), but a couple that just don't resonate, a couple have the same lyrical structure up as limericks, which is odd.

Really dated badly. Very simple song structure, beats, rapping and the occasional scratching. But ultimately tedious.

Very familiar with this album. Aware of its legendary status, but I just can't get into it.

Hints of Surfjan Stevens. Nice melodies,. Fine vocals, harmonies and interesting song structure. Fascinating album, listened a couple of times, could, long term, be a grower, but enjoyed today's recommendation a lot.

Ok. Interesting finding the song De la soul sampled for eye no. Some sounded like musicians joined the session later not knowing what the tune was.

Positives only review. This album's got some great rhyming, such as fun, sun and done, as well as girl and pearl and gone and on, and that's all in the first couple of verses. It's very upbeat, and jolly. Mr Hanoi has some very good vocal noises he can do when he's not rhyming so well (and a great haircut). Sometimes he makes great grr noises like a real thrash metal singer. It's got some mega key changes. My mate Craig was still listening to this in sixth form, he had a Capri, I bet he still plays it. Mostly Harmless Finnish fun.

I'm to old for this shit. I've no need to annoy my parents any more. Nirvana and pixies came on after this and it was such a relief.

So this morning, I was standing in the shower thinking why I didn't enjoy Mudhoney much yesterday, and I think it's because so many of the early nineties US grunge/punk/rock/indie bands sounded almost identical, it was hard to tell them apart. Mudhoney just had that angry pissed off teenager in baggy pants 'sound'. Then this shows up on my playlist today and reinforces my prejudice. Jane's addiction are the exception that proves the rule, they have such a unique sound that it's easy to tell them apart, they've also a creative bent and variety that makes it much easier to tell their individual songs apart from one another. Perry Farrell was far less 'angry grumpy teenager' as he was 'furious psychotic adult'. Bloody love this album and it still sounds great today. Saw them live (on the rdlh tour) and they were bloody epic.

Meh, never really got into this, loads of my friends compelled me to listen to it, over and over and hard to handle was always on the jukebox. But it just never really clicked. I think it's his voice, I struggle to warm to it. Wouldn't turn it off if it was on the radio, also wouldn't buy it.

Bloody hell. Ok. So this is why I started this. Artists I've heard of and obviously know a couple of hits, but never really explored. My generation loved Prince, but this feels like his origins story. Singing style was obviously very influential. Song structure is very unique but will also be very familiar to Prince fans, soulful doesn't seem to do it justice. Beautifully elegant, smooth and engaging.

Love the Specials. Very sad when Terry hall died last year, massive talent. Didn't know this album, but knew a few tracks. Looks like I missed a few classics. Only complaint is that it was too short. Great lyrics and sounds, added to collection.

I put the divine comedy on and really enjoyed it. This was shit.

Knew the hit, wouldn't have been able to name the band though, maybe now I'll remember it. Another of it's era albums though. Heard worse. Only got the mono version on Apple music, not sure stereo would've made a massive difference though.

Bloody brilliant, arguably their last great album, followed by two of their worse, reflector had a few decent tracks on it. Everything now had the title track and the rest was dire. But this is class, sprawl is my personal highlight.

I thought this was meant to be a classic, it's just a load of covers! I am of course joking, legendary song writing, classic performances. Just not really for me.

Love this album, definitely a 4 star. Is it a classic though? To some people, yes.

Used to love the Doors, played their albums to death. Kinda ruined then for me. Rarely listen to them any more and don't miss them. Good album, just listened to it too much.

I was enjoying this until it got a bit weird. Too much wailing n stuff.

A bit 'nothingy'. Apart from reeling in the years, I forgot it was on. The who came on afterwards and I was struck by the difference in energy, then boz scraggs which was soulful and funky. I have no such adjectives to describe this album besides, 'nothingy'. It's the best I can do, and I'm sorry to fans.

F**cking epic. Looked to see how high the score for this is and shouldn't have done, some dinosaur gave it one star and wrote a conceited tome about how it's not the blues, and how it doesn't offer anything positive as a solution to all of the negativity. Who fucking cares?! Maybe there is no hope. When there's no hope, at least we can listen to Different Class, and that's fine with me. Every track is immense. If it's a one star album to you, either you haven't heard it enough, or your stereo wasn't loud enough.

Good.

An album of angry anthemic fight songs. Was never a fan of the punk, pop era. Chester's thrash metal vocals sound forced (to me) and the constant rapping over the top just doesn't appeal, but each to their own, probably a generational thing and I'm too old for it. It's like nine inch nails origins, but hungry for commercial success has made it niche, conceited and inauthentic. Glad it's only short. Sad about Chester though, rest in peace.

It's the beach boys, we all know what that sounds like. It's not pet sounds though.

Not for me, daydream is just a rip off, not so much a sample, as nicking daydream in blue. Not a fan of this sort of rap, yee-ah. Uh. Sounds quite creative though and I can see why fans of this genre are fans. I prefer it to anything Ye has done. Uh huh. Ye uh. Some of them have a cool groove like, Kick, push II. Also... It's too long. Not the most unpleasant listen, but not something I'll be reaching for again.

Good lord, there's a blast from the past. I think I must've had this on cassette, I know all the songs so I must've done, and it still sounds really good to this day. Highly enjoyable, infantile lyrics (and Jamaican accent) but really great beats, rhythm and sounds (hence the mobo award). Added back to collection without hesitation. Great to bring myself up to speed with his shenanigans, only to find out he headbutted his (terminally ill) mate because he wouldn't turn game of thrones off, for which he was fined and given 225 hours unpaid work, was declared bankrupt with over £383k debts and was kicked off stage by an organiser because he was intoxicated. Jolly album though, can barely tell he was born in Edinburgh.

Every generation has its cutting edge album. I don't get the Ramones, I think they all sound the same. I guess it helps if you're 17 when these albums come along. This is one such album and I get it. Iconic and game changing, influenced a generation, to me it's varied and ingenious. Easy 5 stars.

So... This is the album ACDC were listening to before dirty deeds. Track 2 is definitely Ride On. Even Ed Sheeran couldn't defend that one. Overall an enjoyable album, not sure I'll revisit. Only track 2 really stood out as noticeable. Very very short. 3/5 quite enjoyable, but clearly quite influential.

So at two hours and 9 minutes, my first thought was fuck that. So I looked at apple's essential albums instead (of which this isn't one) and opted to listen to brain salad surgery, it was halfway through the second song that I thought, jeez how long is this, and at an hour and 57 I thought, fuck that. So I looked at the length of the other two and trilogy was a mere 40 minutes, so I listened to that instead. So I started to enjoy 'from the beginning' and I wondered if that was on this leviathan of an album, and saw it wasn't. But I did see that there are alternative versions of this album and bugger me, the non deluxe version is only like 38 minutes, this likely could've been over if the link had gone to that one! So I started at the beginning again, listening to this actual album (the short one). I didn't enjoy it. The last track 'nutrocker' was dreadful. 1 star.

This sounded like it could've been a good album, and some people no doubt enjoy it, but I really struggle with the effect that makes beats sounds distorted. I like clean sounds and I hate it when my hifi is playing up, it niggles me like you wouldn't believe. The beats on the first three tracks are all spoiled by uncomfortable noise. Very clear vocals, nice synth sounds, but horrible sounding beats. Made me want to skip the tracks with that on, and it's on tracks 1-5. Track 6 was lovely.

Arguably the greatest 42 minute concert 1 million 12 twelve year old girls ever attended.

Weird; I woke up singing 'you wear it well' this morning. Ok, it's not on this album, but even so. This album has no surprises, it's early seventies Rod Stewart, is exactly what you'd think it sounds like, the only track that was stand out was "I know I'm losing you" and that's a cover, with the faces. Overall hum drum.

It's pretty chill. What I expected to hear. Obviously very funky. Funkalicious. Funkadelic. Funktastic. At times it just feels like they're jamming. It's like a funk jam. Liked "Africa talks to you", but it didn't really grab me, but watching the lyrics is fun "Timber Whoah, Timber" etc. I can only assume they were very high when the idea for spaced cowboy was conceived. Did enjoy runnin' away. Wouldn't add it to my collection, but wouldn't object if someone else played it. Don't think I'm funky enough.

Reasonably good air, but nothing groundbreaking despite the hit singles. Highly enjoyable.

Not of my era, but still sounds fun today, we used to sing comedy versions of some of these in the playground as kids. "All my life, I've been kissing, her left tit cos the other ones missing, oh boy" Hilarious, I know. Interesting listen, but not something I'm likely to want to listen to again.

Really not in the mood for this, listened to some but didn't enjoy it. I did have a hangover, but even so, just don't enjoy the big band sound.

First time I had pretty hate machine I really liked it. I bought the album. I listened to it a lot. I've not listened to it for ages, but I'm assuming I'd still like it. This is far more industrial and not particularly appealing, to me. Was enjoying eraser and then halfway through it just stops and turns into something completely different, like someone messing around on garage band. Struggling with the first listen, don't think I'll be returning for a second listen. No redeeming features.

I kept forgetting it was on. Nice gentle folk music, but would've been happy to die before listening to this one. So wouldn't be in my book of essential albums.

I have a siouxsie album. Peepshow. I enjoyed it more than this.

Enjoyed this, like TFF anyway, but only really know the hits. This album landed well in our house, and got 4s all round. Who am I to argue?

Really enjoyed this. Listened to it a couple of times. Pretty mellow.

Knew a couple off this album, but it's really not dated well I don't think. Sounds like hippy nonsense and I'm but a wee nipper by comparison. Did not really enjoy much.

I did pretty well, there were only about 5 tracks left when I turned it off. Really dreary.

Monotone shouty din.

Dated, didn't like this type of music at the time. Still don't. Each to their own.

I struggled with this. Sounds ok, but didn't click

Barely noticed it was on. Pleasant but a bit background. Would've been nice in a restaurant where you can take your time.

Loud and shouty again. Getting bored of loud and shouty.

I do like some Bruce Springsteen stuff, but he moans to much and too loudly on this and his dialogue is purposefully slurry and I don't get it. Bit shit.

It's got some crackers on it. But there's a bit of dirge too.

Not a fan of piano echoing vocal pattern style melodies and this is full of them. Feels like she's trying to be Kate Bush minus the interesting lyrics and arrangements. Found absolutely no surprises on this album, sounded exactly how I remember it 25 years ago and it's still tedious to me. Sure it probably gets better with more listens, but doesn't appeal to me at all to want to listen to again.

Ok. I went through a phase of liking LCD soundsystem, but found I never wanted to listen to them very often. This sounds like more of the same. It's ok, but wouldn't go mad for it.

Better than I expected.

Great album, easy 5 stars. Classic.

Ok

Better then I expected

Meh

Ok

In Apples top tracks there isn't a single track from kid A. Why? Because it's shit. 'everything' is ok

Not a great start when you don't like the lead singers voice. Then when he starts singing his mum is telling him to get a job and stop wanking.... Not for me. And all the songs sound the same. Shit.

Looking at the reviews this would appear to be a Marmite album, you either love it or hate it. I think Marmite is shit. So is this. She sounds like she doesn't care or she's high, either way it's annoying.

Really? Ffs, I think this book might be overrated.

1001 albums to listen to before the Shire. Hobbit rock music.

Actually quite enjoyed this.

You're onto a losing battle when you don't particularly warm to a vocalists voice or style, we're all different and despite the quality of the production and song writing, it's just not for me.

Respect to Billy Corgan because if I heard myself singing for the first time and it sounded like this I'd try my hand at cartoon voiceovers instead. He deserves credit for his perseverance despite the obvious problems he suffers with his sinuses. I thought I knew enough about smashing pumpkins to guess what this album was going to sound like and that I wouldn't like it. Never going to be easy when the singers voice just sounds so affected. I didn't like it.

It's good, but it's wildly overrated. Some good tunes on here, but not something I crave for. Wouldn't turn it off if it came on the radio. A legend to many, but not to me. A bit shouty.

Television, there's a blast from the past. Although it's easy to agree with the sentiment of this album, the musicality often takes a back seat to the content. There's not many dance floor fillers on this, it's more endurable than enjoyable. But an interesting listen nevertheless, not really my cup of tea though.

It's a bit like a sixth form art project, while it's an interesting listen, none of the songs seem to get into their stride, it sounds like an exceptional album of long intros, I could imagine all of these, bursting into something that could become classic, but they never seem to take off, they just run out of runway, and slide across the field embarrassingly. They're like experimental JJ Cale, but without the interesting guitar, subject matter or voice. There's an over reliance on effects and synth effects to keep the interest, and it doesn't work. Like Django Django without the hook, bop or chorus. Towards the end it gets really shit.

Nothing that I didn't expect, the singles enter sandman and nothing else matters are welcome breaks as the rest is normal service. The occasional pleasant fret work but the constant thrash and strained vocals were as routine as a quo album.

I saw a few Radiohead gigs around this period. Bought ok computer and the bends, then kid a came a along and I realised Thom was getting a sort of cult following. Wasn't my cup of tea and the persistent wailing and off key tangents I grew tired of. This album makes me realise I did the right thing. Still not my cup of tea. Different for being different' sake.

Not my cup of tea. What I expected from a Joni Mitchell album. Probably one of those albums you needed to be 15 for when it came out.

I do love/own this album. But not sure it's one I'd put as his best (Vauxhall and I - IMHO). 'America is not the world' already has outdated lyrics (America has had a black president now and looks likely to get it's first female black president, hopefully) although the sentiment is still the same, also a shame he turned out to be a proper douche. The world is full of crashing bores 'and I must be one' is sadly now correct. Politics aside, it's a solid album. 4 stars.

Belle and Sebastian were bullied at school, but not enough. Music for adults who make their own clothes.

Ok

Not convinced Apple Music have this album, linked to something called music of the valley instead. Sounded like I should have been in a spa having my eyelids cucumbered.

Ok. Sounds like good prog rock of the era. Would probably love it if I'd grown up listening to it, or put in the effort now and have it several listens. But probably won't.

Ok. So something's gone wrong as my actual recommendation was Dire Straits debut album, which I was ready to give 5 stars. This I gave a listen to instead and, well, I listened to it with my autistic daughter (I am too). We couldn't get through track one, or two because of sensory issues. Track 3 was like a bath preview, then bizarre screaming (so we skipped). Track 4, the heartbeat one, had potential until the drill. Then it petered off, then the drill came back. We skipped it. Track 5 was like a 4 year old found a cupboard of pans, and a wooden spoon, while their drunk grandparents watched on. We made it all the way through that as it's only short. The next one the drunk uncle entered the room and couldn't turn the TV on, while the kids carried on playing the pots, we skipped it, jet'm had essence of music..... Ah, it's a cover of je taime!!!! It's a bit shit though. Kollaps...the title track, sounds like the water hammer problem we have with our toilet, then.... The music started and made me realise how bad the recording is. Lo fi doesn't do it justice. It's incredibly poor. When it got going out sounds like a group of drunk people who have found someone else's instruments, we made it all of the way through this one. Sensucht started off brilliantly, a little hans Zimmer. Someone found the keyboard. But only one note, and they can't quite keep rhythm, another one we made all the way through, but it's only 1:20. Vorm krieg we made it all the way through too. Can't lie, Hirnsage was just shit. Ok. I've seen how many tracks are left, I've skipped through the last few they sound like the same sort of crap, building site noises, band practice mixed with basketball practice, more drills. I've had enough, I need a break. This album is the opposite of Dire Straits first album. It's like the musical equivalent of fingernails on a blackboard.

I do own this album, and I am fond of it, but truth be known, it's not a patch on the pixies stuff.

Solid, but not their best.

Generic 80s 'alternative' music. Like a shit buzzcocks.

I liked it, but have to admit, it hasn't dated brilliantly. Some wonderful guitar playing, piano, keyboards, trumpet, etc. But the start of track two sounded like the start of CHiPs.

So three days ago I had the adverts, and I described it as generic 80s alternative music. Was meant to sound edgy & punky but just sounded like many other bands. This on the other hand, from the same period, was clearly pushing the envelope. Innovative but still fun, noisy but nice. Would I listen to it again. No probably not.

Put this on in the office, told people about the 1001 albums and all of their comments would be added to the review. Obviously us oldies knew the hits, Dave tapped his fingers on the desk to gimme all your lovin, but I only noticed when it had finished. No one had anything constructive or critical. Which I think speaks volumes.

Well, it's special isn't it. Reminds me of Neil from the young ones. Definitely unique.

So basically every song ever written came from this or tapestry.

Jesus wept. Affected singers, trying to be interesting by wailing. Made my ears sad.

Easy five star album. And 'big bright green......'

Hard work. Not a massive amount of variety, sure this would make great background music for a hot day in the ghetto, but not great for a rainy day in the office. Somewhat tiresome, although a great snippet of influential early 90's music.

I like being challenged, but I have to confess struggle when there's no musicality, or rhythm or semblance of a tune. As track one started, I had high hopes, I'd read the reviews and expected the worse and by track two I was laughing. I thought this was the track that was introducing the concept, but it didn't get much better after that.

Not as bad as I'd expected. Thought it would all be as plain and ordinary as pissing in the wind, like disillusion. But some of it was far less dull. Borderline interesting.

I am familiar with Fairport convention. Heard a number of tracks in the past, in complications, on TV, radio, always liked their sound. But a whole album is too much.

Great music for Frankie and Benny's. Wouldn't be my choice. Although I did like banana split.

Wonderfully interesting. Joni Mitchell has a beautiful voice and there's some very unique compositions here.

Einar ruins this.

First of all, after reading the blurb I realised I wasn't in for 2 hours, but 40 minutes (thanks Apple music for bastardising so many albums into 'deluxe' or 'remastered' versions). Anyhow, this band reminds me of Pavement or Deus, but to my ears they both have more of an edge to keep me engaged. These are predictable and safe by comparison. Not unpleasant, sure these songs would grow on me over time, but would I want to return often? Probably not. Sidenote. While I'm writing, the Cure have a new single released, so I kinda can't wait for this to finish so I can't listen to that.

Love this, not sure how it'll grow on me, but highly likely to listen again and again. Already given it 3 spins. Perhaps a future 5 star, but just the 4 for now.

Well that was a pleasant surprise. I read the reviews beforehand and thought we'd have another puerile doggystyle album on our hands. Alas no, while there is some of that, it's not gratuitous, it's less in your face and a lot of the music is beautifully crafted and enjoyable. The lyrics don't distract from the songwriting. Some of it is quite reflective (Art of peer pressure), although not the one about the penis being as big as the Eiffel tower so he can fuck the world. Wouldn't turn it off in future, even quite enjoyed it, might return in the future, though it really isn't music I tend to enjoy.

Big fall fan, seen them live, but they're back catalogue is immense, and I can't lie, I didn't know this album. As with (most of) the rest, I warmed to this pretty quickly. In fact, it's more accessible than a lot of their work. So long as you appreciate Mark E Smith is tone deaf and can get over his unique-er singing style, then you'll be in for a treat -er.

Jazz is my reminder that my music tastes aren't as diverse as I think they are. This is painful to listen to.

I like Elvis Costello when he's curating songs. I'm not a fan of his rock n roll/rhythm and blues/honky tonk stuff. Alison and My Aim is True are stand out songs for me from this album. The only one I really liked and didn't know was 'waiting for the end'. Sounds very Graham Parker.

It's not B.I.G and it's not clever. Great tracks ruined by the sort of language I hear too often in work. Difficult to chill to and too pointlessly and purposefully offensive to be entertaining. Puerile.

She's tells us on the album she's best at sex. Assuming her second best talent is music, she still might be dreadful in bed.

On paper I should love the white stripes, but I do not. I've listened to this and I think it's because I don't like Jake Whites singing style, or just his voice, on little ghost it's an unbearable country style. The best track for me is passive manipulation, the throwaway song that Meg sings.

Blast from the past, wasn't much of a fan at the time but manchild is a forgotten gem. Rest of the album is fun, but not something I'd choose to put on.

Sounds dated, not an Ozzy fan, think he's a little overrated. If I was a hippy and was 14 when this came out I'd probably have liked it.

Ok.

Took me a while in the eighties to appreciate the genius of Prince. Sign was the first album I fell in love with, this was the second. At his height during this period, very lucky to have seen him perform twice.

Really enjoyed this..

Good music for a restaurant.

Easy 5 - perfect example of why this list exists.

So the 'first heavy metal album' started with two cover songs followed by two songs that took ten minutes to write. Still, they got it out a full year before Led Zeppelin 1, but a year after 'Are you experienced' and there's massive Hendrix influence in here. Seems meandering though. 2 stars, can understand why people might like it, but don't want it.

Sounds exactly how I expected it to. Lived through this period of time, but not in the Bronx. Far reaching influence but not for me.

Buttered toast, buttered toast that's been left on the plate and gone a bit soggy. No idea why this album is on this list.

Didn't HAVE to listen to this before I died. I knew most of it and it's not really my cup of tea.

Tedious. Music to sleep to. Maybe airports enjoy this sort of music?

There's snow everywhere, it's 1c and this is my album of the day. From one of the hottest places on earth. Cheered me up to be honest. Car felt warmer quicker.

So glad Neil Tennant took the bet. I know this was the period he was playing with the idea of being a popstar, but this album is an icon of my childhood.

Some good tunes on this.

This hasn't aged well. I reckon AI could make a more interesting album than this now. Sounds like after the hit, they just left the drum machine playing and went to the pub for the rest of the album.

Tedious

Classic, but I can't make it through everybody hurts without a few tears.

The singles were epic, the album less so. Into the gap by Thompson twins came on after, now there's a classic pop record from the eighties, that better be on the list if this is!

So I've just had Frankie goes to Hollywood wttpd. Which the singles are good, but the rest of the album is a bit crap. Girl from mars and oh yeah aren't great singles in my humble opinion. But the rest of this album is much more creative/enjoyable.

Another classic, well deserved spot on this list.

Easy 5 star album. One of arcade fires best.

First five star review I've given to an album I didn't previously know/own. Unique, varied and accessible. Definite listen again. (Three times already).

Turns out I had a goldfrapp song in my library beforehand (ooh la la). Nothing like the music here though. I did enjoy it though.

Legendary album

Not a fan of her singing style so I struggled with this one.

Like Fiona Apple, but far less interesting. Formulaic singer songwriting.

Not the best eighties album. Made me put sports by Huey Lewis on.

Ok. Not my favourite eighties album.

Bought the CD of this, still around somewhere, got totally swept up by the hype, a country album for the mainstream, but it's a bit bland now. Lovely songwriting and great voice. But haven't wanted to put it on for years.

You can't give this any less than 5, it literally makes Christmas what it is.

Thought this was alright. Worth a listen anyway, didn't not enjoy.

Very good rhyming.

Had this album many years ago. Couple of lovely songs on here I'd not heard in years.

When 'a gospel' started this made me want to listen to the Jam, not for good reasons.

Quite enjoyed this. Lovely harmonies

Sounds like halfway through zombie a cat started walking on the keyboard.

Says nothing to me about my life, Weapons, violence, drugs, wealth, expensive cars, parties, beautiful young women and lots of sex. 😭

Ok.

I disliked it less than I thought I would.

Really enjoyed this. Used to work in a record shop, sold loads of this and never listened to it once. Don't judge an album by it's cover eh?

The problem with music streaming services is that you rarely get the original album as it was produced. I'd no idea I was wandering into bonus tracks territory as the album became non descript and dead pan. Wasn't really landing with me anyway to be honest. I enjoyed "who knows what tomorrow..."

I am not on holiday, nor am I having a meal out, so I did not enjoy this.

WoOoOoOoOoOoOo. No thanks.

Best unplugged album. Easy 5

Relatively enjoyable, but very little variation between tracks. All a variation on a theme.

MOR AOR. As if I'd f asked AI to create a generic 1970s rock album.

Unlike many singer songwriters where you get either piano and vocals, or guitar and vocals, Simon gives every track it's own unique flavour. He seems to find the right vibe for each track, be it pan pipes, bongo, strings, percussion or something else also making really good use of stereo through exquisite production. A true artist with a highly enjoyable repertoire. Easy five stars. I expect there'll be other Paul Simon albums on this list.

Wouldn't moan if it was on in someone else's house, but it's a bit samey. Lacking substance. Not for me.

'Can I kick it', was a theme tune to my youth, so I had higher hopes than usual for this rap album. How refreshing, an album whose topic isn't Lambo's & BM's, weed, guns, all night parties, ill gotten gains, crime and 'ho's on ma dick' or similar. Creative, nice variety of style, wholly enjoyable will likely listen again.

One of their best.

Background music for Charlie brown cartoons.

It might've been revolutionary at some point in history. But it's not dated well. It didn't blow my mind.

I'm not a fan of Joplin's vocal style. Sometimes she's ok, but at other times, she sounds like she's making the most of her voice that's been negatively affected by smoking too much.

The musical equivalent of 'Nuts in May'. I enjoyed the chord structure in 'The Calvary Cross'.

I like Bob Dylan, but I really don't like the sound of the harmonica.

Really enjoyed this album. Not what I expected from John Cale at all.

Like being in an argument with someone who's taken notes for a few years.

I played this and my daughter's boyfriend said that they play it in the restaurant he works in. Which makes sense. Forgot it was on for the most part. There are very few stand out tracks, very little experimentation. But it does what it intended to do well. I could say I like it, and listen a few times (like I did with KD lang's Ingenue) but in a few years, I'd never play it.

I've heard enough supertramp hits to know what an album would sound like. It didn't disappoint. Or rather it did a little.

Interesting but dreary. It's raining outside, so I needed something more cheery.

Very Pavement. Could likely get into this, but not in 24 hours. Sounds like a good album. Goes weird towards the end.

Solid Beatles album. Can't go wrong really.

Read the backstory, currently not in the best headspace myself, so wasn't sure about listening to this, but was surprised to hear really quite upbeat songs mixed with a blend of beautifully mixed off key melodies. Actually lifted my spirits a little. Thank you Elliot. May you rest in peace. X

The interesting songs are worse covers. The shit songs are theirs. Not a fan of Mick Hucknall's voice or style.

Utter crap. Imagine buying the album based off the single released in the 90s, then ending up with a) the wrong version of the single b) an album full of drivel.

It had good moments. It had non eventful moments also.

My in laws knew Lemmy as they're from Benllech. They said he was nice. Would never have put this on if it weren't for the list. It's very metal. Didn't hate it, but I gave my ears a rest afterwards with The Who.

Do not take culinary advice from this band.

Haters gonna hate. I quite like it. Not sure if it is influential but it's a great pop album of its time.

It's like an album of A sides and B sides. Love the Blondie hits, but the other tracks are a little humdrum. 'Pretty baby' was the only other stand out track that sounded interesting.

Maybe 1001 is too many?

Listened to this a lot in the reality eighties as my dad was a fan. Good solid debut.

Some epic tunes on this, easy five stars. Although he does sometimes get carried away with his noises.

Love it when I'm educated by an album choice. Birth of metronomic beat. Really enjoyed this, hasn't dated at all, would definitely not say a 1975 album.

My initial thought was ....... 2 and a half hours. My last thought was, is that it? (despite the repeats). First listen, loved pretty much most of it. Sounded very familiar, like we'd known each other for ages.

Really poor recording, easily dated the sound quality to mid sixties, shrill, clipping, over use of stereo. Music wasn't spectacular either. The experimental 15 minute 'legendary' track just sounded like messing around, there was a James Bond theme bit, an Arabian bit, a noisy bit, all set to (and I guess they inspired...) 'smoke on the water' bassline. Did not enjoy.

Not a fan of 'wake up boo', so didn't expect much from this. Sounded alright though, early 90s inoffensive indie pop, what's not to like. Nothing overly memorable, but ok for an hour.

Not as good as AC DC, but better than the Ramones.

Wasn't in a great mood when I started listening to this. This didn't help. The fact this is 80s suggests they were more bandwagon than pioneers. I turned it off and put the soft boys on, because they're better, same era but more innovative.

I've loved this album, then I've neglected this album and forgotten about it. It starts off well, sensual world is one of her best opening tracks, then it sort of loses the plot a bit, then "this woman's work" hits and makes it noticeable again. Then it's pretty much over. Not at good as the Dreaming, or Hounds of Love, despite David Gilmour adding a certain flair to it.

I've tried before, I've given it another go. It's just not for me. Call me a heathen. But I just don't get it. I saw two reviews whilst listening to this, one five star that said amazing background music, one two star that said boring background music. I agree with both, it's background music at best.

My dad once said he felt sorry for kids like me who grew up through the 80s, because the music was so bad. I really don't think that's fair as there's dozens of my favourite albums from the 80s. However, Tina turner and a drum machine isn't one of them. I think it's music like this that he meant. Ironic as I think my Mum owns this.

Music with no redeeming features. Didn't grab me.

Didn't dislike this album. Which is unusual for rap/hip hop. Always helps when they're not singing about puerile topics, guns, bitches and ho's, drugs, ma Benz' etc. Several tunes really were quite cool, nice use of samples, eg, 'California soul'. Wouldn't buy though.

Nope, sorry, I listened to it in is entirety and did not enjoy. I get the warm hug analogies and she's got a warm voice and all that. But I'm autistic and I don't really enjoy hugs and a half hour hug is just torture. The last song I couldn't wait for it to finish.

Forgot it was on, but in the odd moment it was on, I quite enjoyed it. Might have to give it a proper listen with headphones on my own sometime. Potential to be my kind of album.

Sounded just how I remember it. It's very metal. Nothing special.

Sounds ok. I sometimes enjoy a bit of noise it adds energy to a track where it's necessary 'swamp song' for example, but so often it's pointless and detracts from the music. There were a few moments like that. But there were some good moments too.

Enjoyed this more than I thought I would from the cover. Fun.

I owned and loved 'Ghosts', and the b side 'The art of parties'. My uncle used to wax lyrical about the genius of David Sylvian and I never listened. After one listen of this I'm regretting not giving it my attention earlier. Some very strong stand out tracks 'In vogue' being one. I'm going to assume this is going to be an album I love.

I knew of Skunk Anansie's work before I started listening. I'm not a fan of Skin's yelling singing style. Track one started and I was pleasantly surprised. Then came the inevitable screaming and I'm out. I made it three tracks in, but I doubt I'm going to find anything I like on this album, and even if there is, I'm not wading through the unlistenable to get to it. I'm usually happy to sit through many an album to find one or two tracks I'd like. The only comparison I can think of is that I'd happily rifle through a bucket of soil to find a fiver, but not a bucket of dog shit.

I found this enjoyable and forgot it was the birth place of 'Plateau' and 'Oh, Me', and 'Lake of Fire'. A pleasant listen on first attempts. One to come back to after I've completed the project. If it got under Kurt's skin to inspire him, perhaps it's a classic, 7/10 (rounded up) seems more than fair at this stage.

Meh

Great album for gardening to. Mowing the lawn specifically, with a Flymo. Made the job almost bearable. Less shit than Metallica imho.

I'm currently on meds for depression and sedatives for sleep, awaiting therapy. This album reminds me of that. Lookout Joe was ok.

More than one person on the 1001 committee grows their own potatoes... ..and wears sandals with socks.

Let's not forget Metallica have four albums on this list. First listen sounded interesting, so gave it a second listen in the afternoon. I never got into the Bunnymen back in the day, Don't know why, It's sort of early Simple Minds/U2. Ok, I think. Might listen a third time. Maybe some songs will stick then?

Another 'Singles Going Steady' fan here. However, I knew all of the tracks on this as well. Quick, quirky, fun, memorable, every track. A unique band and a solid recommendation for the collection.

When I initially glanced the cover I thought it was going to be Celine Dion, so this was more of a pleasant suprise than it might've been for others. He's got the whole world is dreadful though, and others (in and out of shadows) etc. Clocked Jarvis Cocker 'don't let him waste your time' tune borrowed from 'only you know'. Spector's layering technique does make for interesting listening even if the music isn't the best. Still sounds good today. Phil was good with his hands. Also, you're off the hook after "good lovin man", Apple Music has bolted Streetheart on the end. An hour twenty would've been too long.

I preferred 'Morris Minor and the Majors'. 'Stutter rap' is classic, and 'another boring b side'. This sounds like a drum machine left in demo mode, while 3 kids bicker over the TV remote control.

Actually really enjoyed listening to this. Some nice moments, on my list of albums to revisit later.

Best thing about this was that it was only 38 minutes. I've listened to a previous hole album and enjoyed it. Didn't with this, don't know why.

Charlie brown does mushrooms.

Novelty band, ok for the odd Halloween track, but no one wants an album of this shit, do they?

Did not enjoy.

Only got Heaven or Las Vegas, don't know why as I love it. Never explored further, so this is a great nudge to do so. Thoroughly enjoyable listen. Otterley brilliant.

Easy 5 star, talking heads in their prime and most creative.

Every music fan has a favourite Led Zeppelin album. Most think it's 4 because of stairway to heaven. Many think they peaked with 2, I prefer 1 & 3. I guess I'm just odd.

This could be any generic country album. Couple of interesting moments, but not something I'd consider 'must'.

I have this album, I used to listen to it often. Then I stopped listening to it, I'm not sure why, I think it goes on a bit too long? Also Bobby Gillespie has the easiest job on the planet.

Not my cup of tea.

I've yet to find a metal album I enjoy. This didn't help.

Obstreperous and shrill trumpets, exposes the age of the recording making it unenjoyable. Would be ok quiet in the background in Chiquitto's. Turned it down halfway through, think I've got tinnitus. Very long half hour.

Weird for weird's sake. Maybe I'm too old, maybe I'm not old enough? I'm into very few novelty acts. Bonzo dog band, and that's kinda my limit.

Yet another generic country album, there are so many artists in surprised aren't on this list, and yet we get stuff like this. Interesting bass lines are the kindest thing I can say about this. The intro it's just odd.

Unenjoyable.

The album that got me into Depeche Mode. Easy 5.

1-4 and physical graffiti are all 5 star albums.

Illuminate by Orbital is peak David Gray for me.

Early Monkees sounds exactly as I'd have expected it to. Educating myself on this era, it appears no one was sure if they were even playing their own instruments during this period? It sounds like typical manufactured 60s pop and not something I'd consider essential listening. But inoffensive.

Stopped listening (and wasn't enjoying it anyway) when I read the molestation allegations. Don't really want to support a peadophile.

"Sold to the highest bidder", what the heck was that?? Felt much longer than 29 minutes. Second 1967 album I've had this week, first was the Monkees and they both show how desperate the world was for the Beatles the Stones, Led Zeppelin, the Who and Pink Floyd.

Decidedly average. 'Propellerheads' - 'on her majesty's secret service' did it better.

Quite pleasant.

Very familiar with this album, know every track, but it's just not my cup of tea.

The arrangements on this album are simply fantastic, magnificent. I guess it's an unpopular opinion, but, the best parts of this album are when he's not singing...... or worse, talking. Wavers between genius and tedium.

Pretty good, will have to go on my interesting albums list.

Wooo Yeah Wooo Yeah. Literally every song in 1989. No.

Now this is more like it, some real inventive stuff on here. First listen: 4 stars, need to add to my interesting list. I like.

Too shouty to be my favourite band. Long half hour.

Discovered this the same day I discovered Illinoise from NME top chillout albums. Surprised by how much of this I knew back then. Classic.

I've got hunkpapa, another band I never explored outside of the one album (like Cocteau twins), and I also have hips and makers. This is lovely. Life is too short for all this lovely music.

Ok, I've loved this album since it's release. For clarity, it's a chill down album. Bill O is the guy behind Madonna's (arguably) best album, and her 4th biggest single. Getting ready for bed? long busy day? Let's put some ambient music on. Go with the flow..... It's all great until after 40 minutes 'Reggie, Reggie..' in Deus ex that bit can startle you if you're caught unaware, for the most part, just let it wash over you. Starts upbeat and funky, slows into a mellow chill session. If you're interested, 'hinterland' by 'strange cargo' is also worth a listen. (Yes, it's confusing).

Well chill

Not as bad as I remembered it.

Preferred 'introduce yourself' to this and 'Angel dust'. But Epic is er, epic. The album starts off strong, but falls off quite quickly... Zombie eaters is a filler, the real thing is a filler, it's stuck in 2nd gear, never really gets going. Underwater, the morning after, the (6 minute instrumental) woodpecker from mars, edge of the world all have no redeeming features. Rest in peace Chuck Mosley.

Not only is this a great album, but Greg Calbi's mastering is absolutely stunning. It sounds incredible 45 years on.

Very good, thoroughly enjoyable. Next!

I enjoyed the music.