View Album
Thu Jan 26 2023
Disintegration
The Cure
Atmospheric, emphatic, almost euphoric in it’s melancholy. Absolutely tremendous album. Enjoyed from the first minute to the last! Now, where’s my eyeliner…
Easy 4 stars!
4
View Album
Fri Jan 27 2023
Hot Fuss
The Killers
First five tunes are HUGE! Make no mistake they are incendiary bangers! Not a stinker among them! Album dips for tracks 6, definitely 7 and 8 is forgettable to be honest. Doesn’t really pick back up till the finale of ‘Glamorous Indie Rock & Roll’. Flowers knows his way around a tune, the band are sharp and there is a genuine reason why The Killers built such a following! However, this album is half killer, half filler so only the three star average here.
3
View Album
Sat Jan 28 2023
Vol. 4
Black Sabbath
3
View Album
Sun Jan 29 2023
Let's Get It On
Marvin Gaye
Well, what can be said about this album that hasn’t already been said? Certainly nothing from me! Stonewall classic. Should be in every record collection, regardless of your fondness for the genre. 4 stars for me as it ISN’T my favourite genre. An album that I will occasionally seek out to listen to, but not as often as others! Musically and lyrically it’s excellent, there’s just something I can’t quite figure out that holds it back for me!
4
View Album
Mon Jan 30 2023
Countdown To Ecstasy
Steely Dan
First time I’ve ever listened to Steely Dan, and unfortunately, I shan’t be rushing back to them. This is nondescript, generic, monotone and quite frankly dull soft rock. Nothing exciting, adventurous or intriguing about it sadly. So, a big miss on this one.
2
View Album
Tue Jan 31 2023
Ace of Spades
Motörhead
Well now! This was 40mins of balls out, riff fucking, drum smashing, vocal growling joy! Did not expect this! I’ve shied away from the likes of Motörhead, Iron Maiden etc for no reason in particular and maybe I’ll end up investing more time to them! This was good fun! Love Ace of Spades as an opener, serious nostalgia waves for this one as it took me back to Tony Hawks Pro Skater (bloody loved that game, but I digress) and shitty student accommodation! Is it the best album of all time, no. Is it going to change your life, no. Will you air guitar and bang air drums to it, yes. Yes you will.
3
View Album
Wed Feb 01 2023
Murder Ballads
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
Now, I like Nick Cave. A lot. But this? Not for me, just seems to be Nick shouting. Struggled to get through it! I’ll stick with his later stuff that got me into him, and sadly award this just the deuce. Shame really, I was looking forward to this one.
2
View Album
Tue Feb 07 2023
Modern Life Is Rubbish
Blur
This is not very good at all. All sounds EXACTLY the same. Chirpy riffs? Done. Stupid Mockney accent and gibberish lyrics? Done. No discernible songs? Done. Awful album.
2
View Album
Wed Feb 08 2023
Chelsea Girl
Nico
Hmmmm, this is not what I expected. An awful lot of wailing and screeching. Musically it’s awful. My colleague agrees with me so a lucky two stars. And that’s only because it isn’t absolutely unlistenable.
2
View Album
Thu Feb 09 2023
Reign In Blood
Slayer
Um, nope. Awful. Couldn’t finish it.
I suppose you’ll either love it or hate it?
1
View Album
Fri Feb 10 2023
Don't Come Home A Drinkin' (With Lovin' On Your Mind)
Loretta Lynn
Ok, so country music ain’t my thing at all. For the same reasons as everyone else who doesn’t like it. How many songs about cheatin’ lowlife ratbags can one listen to in all honesty? However, Loretta has a voice that makes me think of the Aunt that everyone fancies and used to give you a cuddle that made you feel funny…
I liked it, I didn’t love it though and I’ll never look to revisit it but it was enjoyable for what it was I suppose.
3
View Album
Sat Feb 11 2023
Technique
New Order
If average was an album, this would be it. Background noise and nothing more.
2
View Album
Sun Feb 12 2023
Clandestino
Manu Chao
Ok, so this was interesting! As with most music that falls under the “worldwide” umbrella it’s obviously going to appeal to a certain customer rather than a 40 year old, fat Scotsman. But, I enjoyed it for what it was! Not going to be racing down the local record shop for it though!
3
View Album
Mon Feb 13 2023
Fifth Dimension
The Byrds
This was…acceptable. Happy enough to hear it burbling away in the background but I won’t rush back to it! All a bit invisible for me! But hey ho, it is what it is I suppose. Acceptable like I say but nothing more.
3
View Album
Tue Feb 14 2023
Raising Hell
Run-D.M.C.
NOW YOU’RE TALKING! Awesome album! Love a bit of Run D.M.C! Excellent, excellent hip hop! Truly excellent. Lyrically impressive, the beats are brilliant and the scratching is awesome! Loves it I does!
4
View Album
Wed Feb 15 2023
La Revancha Del Tango
Gotan Project
This was very nice indeed, chilled out beats, floating vocalists, just really nice! Will make its way into my collection I don’t doubt. Muchos enjoyment! It won’t be for everyone, but fans of the likes of Portishead and Goldfrapp will enjoy!
4
View Album
Thu Feb 16 2023
1989
Taylor Swift
Hell no. This is absolute noodles. Total bag of shite. Like being made to have sex with two tightly packed cheesegraters lubed up with pickled onion vinegar. Absolutely god awful.
1
View Album
Fri Feb 17 2023
Dry
PJ Harvey
Alright! This was good! Only heard “Let England Shake” prior to this and I wasn’t a massive fan, I’m still not but this was good! How often would I reach for it? Not often enough to end up in my collection, but it’s certainly something I wouldn’t switch off if it popped on the stereo.
3
View Album
Sat Feb 18 2023
Lady Soul
Aretha Franklin
This was a shame to be honest, was looking forward to it but it just didn’t grab me like I wanted it to. Another one I’ll chalk up as bang average.
3
View Album
Sun Feb 19 2023
High Violet
The National
This was an interesting listen. I bought this years ago as a music magazine rated it so highly and I don’t remember being blown away by it. Think it was something to do with it not sounding exactly as I pictured it, so, gathering dust is all it’s done the last wee while. Let me tell you now though, the folly of youth was clear in me as this album is fantastic! Broody, melancholy, atmospheric, dark and gloomy let uplifting too! Musicality is excellent and your man’s vocals are like being covered in melted Galaxy chocolate. I loved this!
4
View Album
Mon Feb 20 2023
American Beauty
Grateful Dead
Forgettable, generic soft rock. There were some nice harmonies but legitimately, each and every song is a non-event. Another album where I can see lots of people being mad for it, but not me. Maybe there will be more Grateful Dead to come and I hope there is at least SOMETHING to praise. This however, was as generic as they come. It’s not offensively shit or anything, but certainly isn’t an album that I feel I would have missed out by not hearing ever in my life.
2
View Album
Tue Feb 21 2023
Music From Big Pink
The Band
This is another artist I feel like I’m told I should like often. Problem is, I just don’t. I’ve tried, Lord Jebus help me I’ve tried. It’s all just too ‘meh’.
I Shall Be Released was the highlight for sure, but I’m not sure if that’s just because that’s what I was thinking by the time it came on.
2
View Album
Sat Feb 25 2023
Immigrés
Youssou N'Dour
Hmmmmmmmm. Couldn’t dig this at all. I understand vaguely why some people might like to hear these weird musings but I’ll avoid for just now. Not my gig at all.
2
View Album
Sun Feb 26 2023
The Hour Of Bewilderbeast
Badly Drawn Boy
Absolutely excellent album. Beautiful, melodic, charming and fizzing with originality. One song to the next it’s an adventure. I adore this album. Could not recommend it more highly.
5
View Album
Mon Feb 27 2023
Le Tigre
Le Tigre
Punchy, punky, poppy brilliance! Loved this! Had never heard of them prior but I really enjoyed this! They sound so tight as a band, crisp and clean and the music is just great! Loved it!
4
View Album
Tue Feb 28 2023
Arthur (Or the Decline and Fall of the British Empire)
The Kinks
I’ve argued this point with my mates before, I’m my humble opinion The Kinks are a good ‘Best Of’ band and nothing more! A Best Of will give you all you need from them without having to sit through the 8+ below average tunes on each album. This album is irrefutable proof that I am, in fact, absolutely correct. I’ve never heard any of their albums that are all great songs and this is no exception. Two or three bangers and every other track is forgettable. Sorry, not sorry.
2
View Album
Wed Mar 01 2023
John Barleycorn Must Die
Traffic
This is 70’s ROCK! From the 70’s! That ROCKS! In the 70’s it ROCKED! 70’s ROCK! ROCKIN’ 70’s!
Sadly, it’s 2023 and this is absolutely desolate. Move along people, nothing to see here. Unless you like beige? It reminds me of the colour beige.
2
View Album
Fri Mar 03 2023
Tanto Tempo
Bebel Gilberto
Not even sure how to class this? It put me in mind of the music I’d be forced to listen to on a cruise liner each night. Inoffensive, but dull. Not for me.
2
View Album
Sat Mar 04 2023
Eagles
Eagles
Awful.
1
View Album
Sun Mar 05 2023
Parallel Lines
Blondie
This was GREAT!!! New to Blondie, I know the big hits like everyone else does but this album is awesome! Debbie Harry has ‘tude and the band are whip tight! Not a bad tune on this album! Definitely going into the collection! It’s amazing!
4
View Album
Mon Mar 06 2023
Grievous Angel
Gram Parsons
I just can’t with Country music. This is abysmal.
1
View Album
Tue Mar 07 2023
NEU! 75
Neu!
Krautrock is something that’s never really triggered anything with me, not sure why, I think mainly due to how non-descript it all is. Each track blends into the other to such a degree that it’s indiscernible the differences. However, this was pleasant enough. The bar is that I wouldn’t actively seek it out, but also wouldn’t switch it off if it was on. Take that as you will. Standard three star review.
3
View Album
Fri Mar 10 2023
Apocalypse 91… The Enemy Strikes Black
Public Enemy
Aggressive, powerful, lairy hip hop. Absolutely enjoyed it! Loved it? No, enjoyed it? Oh hell yes. But then, I like hip hop. It’s fun to hear the original hip hop masters and I hope to hear more like this. I’ve got “A Nation of Millions” and have probably listened to it maybe twice in ten years! Need to get back to it! This is great! Definitely won’t be for everyone though! Very polarising record I would expect! A three star album, but a BIG three stars!
3
View Album
Sat Mar 11 2023
Bringing It All Back Home
Bob Dylan
Now, Dylan is a very marmite kinda artist. You either love or hate him in my experience. You either GET him or you don’t get him. This album is a great entry level for him.
The dude knew his stuff, and this proves it. Excellent album but as with all Dylan stuff, I can take it or leave it.
3
View Album
Sun Mar 12 2023
Nixon
Lambchop
This was a truly lovely record to listen to. Beautiful, wistful and melodic indie music. I adored it.
4
View Album
Mon Mar 13 2023
Rapture
Anita Baker
Ok, so I can see how some people would appreciate this M.O.R. soul record.
Not me though, this was pish.
2
View Album
Tue Mar 14 2023
Dookie
Green Day
A classic, nothing else left to say about this really! But I will anyway…
Punky, poppy, stoner rock n roll! Some huge tunes on this that even the most alien to Green Day will know of. Basket Case, Welcome to Paradise and When I Come Around are all certified classics and I defy anyone to not love them.
Album is a masterpiece.
4
View Album
Wed Mar 22 2023
Maxwell's Urban Hang Suite
Maxwell
Oh no, this was not a fun listen at all. Talk about poor r&b. Awful.
2
View Album
Thu Mar 23 2023
Come Find Yourself
Fun Lovin' Criminals
Truly an album of two halves. First half is straight up funky rock. Filled with unskippable tunes! Literally first seven tunes are awesome. Second seven? Not so much! Huey is cool as fuck though so a solid 3 star album!
3
View Album
Fri Mar 24 2023
Like A Prayer
Madonna
I was looking forward to this one, classic Madonna album. Opens huge with Like A Prayer which is just an absolute belter of a tune! Tails off somewhat after that, with not much else of note on the album that I could tell. If you’re mad for Madge then you’ll love this I would think, if you’re not a heavy fan you’ll find it pleasant enough but nothing to set your heather alight. Solid 3 stars.
3
View Album
Sat Mar 25 2023
Straight Outta Compton
N.W.A.
YES!
That is all.
4
View Album
Sun Mar 26 2023
More Songs About Buildings And Food
Talking Heads
So, I was kind of looking forward to a Talking Heads album as I know they are highly regarded by many, many people.
I come out of it no further forward with them than I already was. It’s almost instantly forgettable music. Generic spiky guitars, basic musicality that I could appreciate and nothing special to tickle me nipples.
I’ll give it a three, as I expect it’s the kind of music that isn’t good but isn’t bad. Definition of average I suppose.
Never mind.
3
View Album
Mon Mar 27 2023
Young Americans
David Bowie
What if I told you this was better than Ziggy? Better than Hunky Dory? Better than Blackstar?
Well, I’d be lying. This is a Bowie album for fans. Starts off really well with the title track. After that it’s just *shrugs*
As an aside, his cover of Across the Universe is an affront to music in general.
Bang bloody average again.
3
View Album
Tue Mar 28 2023
Morrison Hotel
The Doors
The Doors have always intrigued me, I know they’re supposed to be awesome but sometimes I just find that they are not. Maybe it’s like Bob Dylan, in that you need to GET it to truly love it.
This album was good, Roadhouse Blues is an absolute banger and the rest of the album flows beautifully but without really taking off in my opinion.
An enjoyable listen but again, not something I’m desperate to add to my collection.
3
View Album
Fri Mar 31 2023
Fever To Tell
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
It’s good, it’s not great but it’s good. It’s sort of vague indie rock but the lead singer does have some pipes. It’ll absolutely blow some people’s socks off I’m sure, but not mine. Average as average can be for me.
3
View Album
Sat Apr 01 2023
James Brown Live At The Apollo
James Brown
A short, sharp, sexy burst of funky soul! This was awesome, guy was at the top of his powers and you can tell that too!
Excellent fun!!
4
View Album
Sun Apr 02 2023
In Rainbows
Radiohead
Radioheads second best album? It’s a tough one to call as we all know that their discography is second to none.
This album is melodic, calm and also exciting. It’s not OK Computer (but then, what is?) and that will put some people off. This is an excellent album from start to finish and I’ll never tire of hearing it.
Truly exceptional.
4
View Album
Mon Apr 03 2023
Teenage Head
Flamin' Groovies
Was this good fun? I believe so! Was it a classic album that dudes and dudettes will rave about? I believe not.
Some cracking tunes on it though so will definitely revisit at some point. For now though, I’ll hammer in another 3 star!
3
View Album
Tue Apr 04 2023
The Piper At The Gates Of Dawn
Pink Floyd
Wow. I’ve heard this before, just as any Pink Floyd fan will have…but just wow. It’s truly abysmal.
I might have a controversial take here, but thank god Syd buggered off.
Really hard to listen to, most tracks are skippable and the gibberish is just too much.
2
View Album
Thu Apr 06 2023
Tommy
The Who
I was excited when this generated in for me, but boy oh boy was I let down.
I was maybe too hyped for a rock and roll tour de force which, I felt, I just didn’t get. There’s nothing too much wrong with the album, except none of it is memorable at all. Pinball Wizard is only a fragment as it’s one that EVERYONE knows but the rest of the album is almightilly forgettable.
Maybe one I’ll have to go back to in the future.
3
View Album
Fri Apr 07 2023
The Boatman's Call
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
Beautiful, just beautiful. Stripped back, melodic and elegant. Music to make you weep. Heavy hearted yet light and just hushed tones to embrace you. Cave’s vocals are extraordinary and really grab you. Cannot rate this album highly enough. Absolutely love it.
4
View Album
Sat Apr 08 2023
Nothing's Shocking
Jane's Addiction
This was pretty good rock and roll! Enjoyable album from start to end, not something I’ll rush out to buy and I recently got rid of my only Jane’s Addiction album (can’t even remember the name of it it was so forgettable) so make of that what you will. Solid 3 though
3
View Album
Sun Apr 09 2023
En-Tact
The Shamen
Really? 15 tracks of intense, ear bleeding, nippy techno?
Fuck no.
2
View Album
Mon Apr 10 2023
Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band
Beatles
I highly doubt I have anything to say about this album that hasn’t been said before.
An absolute classic.
4
View Album
Tue Apr 11 2023
Are You Experienced
Jimi Hendrix
AWWWW YEEEEEEAHHHHH!!!
That is all.
4
View Album
Wed Apr 12 2023
Phaedra
Tangerine Dream
Ok, I should love this but fit some reason it ain’t grabbing me.
I’m gonna give it a safe 3 as I’ll probably try again in the future
3
View Album
Wed Apr 19 2023
Dear Science
TV On The Radio
This was an eclectic record! Bit of everything and thoroughly enjoyable! Absolutely loved this one, but it won’t be for everyone!
4
View Album
Thu Apr 20 2023
This Nation’s Saving Grace
The Fall
Listened to this twice through and I’m just not sure how to describe it? Is it rock? Is it pop? It’s enjoyable enough, and will undoubtedly be right up some people’s street.
I’ll not be rushing to add it to my want list but it’s entertaining enough. Maybe come back to it at a later date and see how I feel then. Until then my friends, stay steady with a three star!
3
View Album
Fri Apr 21 2023
I’ve Got a Tiger By the Tail
Buck Owens
Is this a joke?
Shambles that this is on the list.
1
View Album
Sat Apr 22 2023
Paul's Boutique
Beastie Boys
Classic. Absolute hip hop classic.
Nuff said bruh
5
View Album
Sun Apr 23 2023
Chris
Christine and the Queens
This is nondescript, inoffensive, slightly sensible, genteel pop.
Nothing more and nothing less.
3
View Album
Wed Apr 26 2023
Dare!
The Human League
This was good! Much better than I expected, knowing only the big hit but thoroughly enjoyed listening to this. Not one I’m going to be knocking down doors to buy but good fun nonetheless!
3
View Album
Thu Apr 27 2023
Disraeli Gears
Cream
Awesome! Loved this! A LOT! Funky, rocky, chilled out casual rock n roll! Excellent stuff!
4
View Album
Fri Apr 28 2023
Headquarters
The Monkees
Nah, you’re alright.
Shite.
2
View Album
Sat Apr 29 2023
Elvis Is Back
Elvis Presley
Elvis, innit.
3
View Album
Sun Apr 30 2023
Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music
Ray Charles
I’m really not sure how I feel about this one. I was looking forward to Ray Charles and this just didn’t hit with me.
3
View Album
Wed May 03 2023
Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness
The Smashing Pumpkins
Belter of an album. Genuinely a classic.
4
View Album
Thu May 04 2023
Electric Ladyland
Jimi Hendrix
Another classic. Hendrix was just something else man!
Band is tight, tunes are tight. What more could you ask for?
4
View Album
Fri May 05 2023
The Sun Rises In The East
Jeru The Damaja
Generic, average hip hop.
Definitely not one of the best hip hop albums of all time?
3
View Album
Sat May 06 2023
Power In Numbers
Jurassic 5
YAAAAASSSS YA FUCKIN’ BEAUTY!
Love me some J5 guys! Awesome stuff! Loved it!
4
View Album
Sun May 07 2023
Blue Lines
Massive Attack
Trip hop at it’s finest! Absolutely loved this and is defo on the purchase list now!
Chilled out, melodic, sparse and atmospheric tunes to have on! Can’t get enough of it!
4
View Album
Mon May 08 2023
Mr. Tambourine Man
The Byrds
A pleasant surprise indeed! This was excellent chilled out rock n roll! Will defo come back to this one, a massive improvement from their previous album on this list! It’s not quite excellent, but very good. Wish there was a half star you could add as this would be three and a half. I’ll give it three though, not quite good enough for a big fat four!
3
View Album
Tue May 09 2023
Let It Bleed
The Rolling Stones
Excellent, just excellent.
Before this project I just wasn’t interested in the Stones at all.
How wrong I was! I’ve been missing out for over 40 rotations of the sun. What a tit!
4
View Album
Wed May 10 2023
Surrealistic Pillow
Jefferson Airplane
This was an awesome album! Thoroughly enjoyed it from start to finish! Added to the list to own!
4
View Album
Thu May 11 2023
Deep Purple In Rock
Deep Purple
Hell yeah, but of absolute Rock!
Average rock mind, but rock nonetheless.
3
View Album
Fri May 12 2023
Follow The Leader
Korn
Aw yeeeeeeah! This is a proper great album! I fucking love this, total flash backs to being young and foolish!
Love it to bits!
4
View Album
Sat May 13 2023
Green
R.E.M.
Another pleasant surprise!
Never dug REM, and still don’t to a certain extent! However, this was inoffensive and pleasant to hear! Wouldn’t rush to it again, but wouldn’t switch it off either. So another solid 3 star effort.
3
View Album
Sun May 14 2023
The Nightfly
Donald Fagen
Hmmmm. Less said about this soft jazz “rock” the better.
I’m sure this floats some peoples boats, but I thought it was guff.
2
View Album
Mon May 15 2023
The Bones Of What You Believe
CHVRCHES
Now you’re talking!!!
This is exceptionally good! I love the whole urgent vibe of the record and the lassies vocals are mesmeric!
Fuckin’ awesome!
4
View Album
Tue May 16 2023
It's A Shame About Ray
The Lemonheads
Absolutely bang average indie pop.
Nothing to see here people, move along.
3
View Album
Wed May 17 2023
Songs Of Leonard Cohen
Leonard Cohen
Leonard Cohen doing Leonard Cohen
You’ll either love it, like it, tolerate it or hate it.
I rather enjoyed it, but it’s not a must have in my opinion.
3
View Album
Thu May 18 2023
John Prine
John Prine
Fucking country music. I just can’t. It’s fucking shit.
The same snivelling, whining nasally banal tone. The same shitty, zingy, steely guitars. The same overcooked lyrics.
Yee fuckin’ haw.
More like yee fuckin’ fuck off you fuck.
1
View Album
Fri May 19 2023
Parsley, Sage, Rosemary And Thyme
Simon & Garfunkel
Beautiful. Just beautiful.
Never been mad for Si and the Funk but this was excellent! Defo listen to this again and might find it’s way onto the list for purchase!
4
View Album
Sat May 20 2023
Music in Exile
Songhoy Blues
So, who else knew that Malian blues would be their thing? Not me that’s for sure but this is absolutely wicked!
4
View Album
Sun May 21 2023
Oar
Alexander 'Skip' Spence
Unremarkable in absolutely every way. I can’t remember the last time I listened to an album so forgettable.
Dire.
1
View Album
Mon May 22 2023
Another Green World
Brian Eno
Love a bit of Eno baby! This wasn’t his best ever but it was good. Couple of duff tracks but overall it was a pleasant listen.
3
View Album
Tue May 23 2023
Seventeen Seconds
The Cure
The Cure being The Cure! I enjoyed it, but then I like them so I’m bias to it.
Good starter point for anyone looking to get into them, although Disintegration is much, much better.
Solid album though, I’ll probably blitz their back catalogue on a purchase spree at some point too!
3
View Album
Wed May 24 2023
Miriam Makeba
Miriam Makeba
Well now. This is EXACTLY why I joined this project! Hearing an album I would never have normally even thought about but this was AWESOME!
Beautiful voice and the music is just excellent! Thoroughly enjoyed this one!
It obviously won’t be for everyone, as many will hate it but if you allow yourself to open up to it, it’s really rewarding this one!
3
View Album
Thu May 25 2023
Blunderbuss
Jack White
Jack White at his best? No. Jack White being a tremendous version of himself? Hell yeah!
Great album, thoroughly enjoyed despite expecting disappointment. I love the White Stripes (but is that just because I’ve a crush on Meg?) and dig all their records so why was I so scared of Jack’s solo stuff? This is excellent and I’ll defo dip into his catalogue!
3
View Album
Fri May 26 2023
GI
Germs
Not very good is it. Germanys answer to the Sex Pistols?
It’s poor. Very, very poor.
2
View Album
Sat May 27 2023
Kind Of Blue
Miles Davis
Now, I know this is a classic and well deserved to be in the list.
But, are we all just pretending to like Jazz? I mean, it’s inoffensive enough to not bother me, but do I get excited listening to it? Not really I’m afraid.
It’s ok, not better than that and not worse.
3
View Album
Sun May 28 2023
Superunknown
Soundgarden
This is just not my cup of tea at all. I can’t even put my finger on why.
Disappointed that I’m empty of any kind of feeling toward this.
2
View Album
Mon May 29 2023
Nowhere
Ride
Ok, so this is more average than Mr A. Average, of average age and average height with average shoe size. He’s got brown hair and brown eyes. He’s so average if he walked alongside you you’d barely blink at just how average and unremarkable he is. He lives in a semi detached house with a back garden patch and his bins. He drives a Dacia Duster and listens to The Eagles (favourite song is Hotel California obviously). He wears jeans and a polo top on the weekends and enjoys watching Britains Got Talent on a Saturday with five cans of pale ale.
In conclusion, it’s average.
3
View Album
Tue May 30 2023
The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill
Lauryn Hill
I listened to this not long ago and thought it was exceptional.
On second listen, it isn’t sadly.
It’s just ok, and nothing more.
3
View Album
Wed May 31 2023
Blur
Blur
Classic. Truly brilliant album full of gems! Not a duff track on the album and that’s coming from a massive Oasis fan! Loved this!
4
View Album
Thu Jun 01 2023
Jazz Samba
Stan Getz
Not for me thank you.
Appreciate the talent in this inane tootling, but really not my thing.
Jazz, innit.
2
View Album
Fri Jun 02 2023
First Band On The Moon
The Cardigans
This was not my cup of tea at all. Just pop, innit. Nothing exciting or groundbreaking?
Hard to see why this is an album I should be listening to before I die?
Less than average.
2
View Album
Sat Jun 03 2023
Catch A Fire
Bob Marley & The Wailers
Aaaaaaand here is the reason why reggae just doesn’t do it for me! I just don’t get it (having said that Exodus is awesome) and struggle to invest in it to a point that I care enough.
3
View Album
Sun Jun 04 2023
Duck Rock
Malcolm McLaren
Weird. I was excited when I thought this was British hip hop and was quickly it in my place by what it quite frankly a deceptive description. Yes, there is some hip hop in there, however it is more than not a love letter to various styles from across the world!
Gets a bit ‘samey’ after about four tracks but hey ho. A pleasant listen but not one I’ll be mad for buying.
3
View Album
Mon Jun 05 2023
E.V.O.L.
Sonic Youth
Noise! Noisy noise!
Ok though.
3
View Album
Tue Jun 06 2023
Beautiful Freak
Eels
This was excellent, really liked this album. Only really knew Novocaine For The Soul but the rest of the album doesn’t disappoint either so a thumbs up here!
3
View Album
Thu Jun 08 2023
The Joshua Tree
U2
This was awesome!
I’m not big on U2, as like many, I find them insufferable pompous buffoons.
However, take nothing away from this album. It’s a classic for a reason! The opening three or four tracks are up there with the best opening to any album ever.
4
View Album
Fri Jun 09 2023
London Calling
The Clash
The definition of a classic album.
It’s extraordinary!
5
View Album
Sat Jun 10 2023
Parachutes
Coldplay
There was a time when Coldplay were not the all conquering, stadium filling, love brigading behemoth that they are now and this is it!
For those old enough to remember when this came out, they will remember 2000 being the year of the dreaded Millenium Bug, the (at the time) jaw dropping juggernaut Big Brother starting (Nasty Nick can still fuck off…), Eminem releasing The Marshall Mathers LP to acclaim and hysteria in equal measure and EVERYBODY trying to get the top score on Snake II on the hallowed Nokia 3310.
They may also remember a bedraggled, toothy, curly haired indie singer serenading us in the wind and the rain on a beach with HUGE single, Yellow.
The rest of the album shines and if anything, Yellow is one of the weaker songs in my opinion.
This album was huge then, is huge now and does nothing to dispel how wonderful a song writer Chris Martin really is.
Beautiful album start to finish.
4
View Album
Sun Jun 11 2023
KIWANUKA
Michael Kiwanuka
Nice voice, but I just feel like he doesn’t know what he wants to be?
Not one for me I’m afraid.
3
View Album
Mon Jun 12 2023
All Directions
The Temptations
This was ok, I felt a little disappointed with it as I was looking forward to hooking into it but it just didn’t grab me the way I wanted it to.
Never mind, hopefully more to come to broaden my horizon with them?
3
View Album
Tue Jun 13 2023
Talking Heads 77
Talking Heads
Ok, this is my second Talking Heads album now, and I’m no further forward with them than an asthmatic ant carrying some heavy shopping.
I just…don’t get it. What’s the fascination? What do they bring? Why should this be blowing my socks off? Why doesn’t it? Why do I feel so nonplussed by it?
I’m sure there will be another 300 of their albums to plod through so maybe better luck next time?
2
View Album
Wed Jun 14 2023
I’m a Lonesome Fugitive
Merle Haggard
Not the worst Country album of all time, but it’s still country so therefore it’s shit.
Soz, not soz.
Will never listen to this again.
2
View Album
Thu Jun 15 2023
Destroyer
KISS
Well I wasn’t sure what to expect from this. I obviously know of Kiss, but more as a parody of themselves.
I was kind of hoping for balls out, gleeful, glam kind of rock and roll and was a little let down by what I heard.
Won’t be joining the Kiss army any time soon I’m glad to say.
3
View Album
Fri Jun 16 2023
More Specials
The Specials
Fun! At first…then I lost concentration.
Try again tomorrow!
Edit: same as previous day, starts well but quickly loses my interest.
3
View Album
Sat Jun 17 2023
2112
Rush
HELLLLLL YEEEEEAHHHH!
Never heard no Rush before but this was the goddamn tiddies!
4
View Album
Sun Jun 18 2023
Dance Mania
Tito Puente
Alright! This was pretty cool! Enjoyed the grooves and will listen again!
This might end up on my racks as a pleasant shift in style and tempo!
3
View Album
Mon Jun 19 2023
Architecture And Morality
Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark
This was pretty pleasant, although listening on a shitty Bluetooth tin can hasn’t helped it so I’ll blast it on the big stereo and try again!
Conservative 3 at the moment…
3
View Album
Tue Jun 20 2023
Stardust
Willie Nelson
I mean, it was nice but that’s all I can muster with it.
One of my colleagues did mention that I was listening to some dogshit today so it obviously doesn’t tickle everyone.
3
View Album
Wed Jun 21 2023
Grace
Jeff Buckley
Ok, so I know this is an album I’m meant to adore. I just…don’t.
It’s super average and in the words of the Arctic Monkeys before they crooned themselves into the books of pretentiousness…don’t believe the hype.
2
View Album
Thu Jun 22 2023
Brothers
The Black Keys
Solid bluesy rock and roll album.
Dude has an issue with his ex that much is clear but the album was a solid effort! Couple of bangers but a lot of samey tunes. Wouldn’t switch it off it came on again though so that’s a positive!
3
View Album
Sun Jun 25 2023
Getz/Gilberto
Stan Getz
It’s ok I suppose. I see this pop up on a lot of vinyl groups I’m in so it’s obviously one that lots of folk love (either that or it’s somehow become known as a MUST have on vinyl for some reason and people buy it because they think they should have it?)
Either way, it wasn’t my bag baby.
2
View Album
Mon Jun 26 2023
Highway 61 Revisited
Bob Dylan
This is excellent, it’s taken me many years to start enjoying Bob after my first experiences with him left me lukewarm.
I’m no expert, and I’m not going to claim to finally GET Bobby but this is hella good!
4
View Album
Tue Jun 27 2023
Pearl
Janis Joplin
This was excellent! I hadn’t heard any Janis Joplin and wasn’t sure what to expect but really impressed!
4
View Album
Wed Jun 28 2023
AmeriKKKa's Most Wanted
Ice Cube
Gangsta Rap at its gangsta’y.
Considering NWA were so important and their music so powerful this was a let down for sure.
Expected more than just an angry man shouting swear words.
2
View Album
Thu Jun 29 2023
Foo Fighters
Foo Fighters
Awesome!
Generally not a fan of a full length Foo album, find them too stodgy and repetitive but this sounded brilliantly fresh!
Before they became the all conquering Rock juggernaut that they are now, there was a crispness and freshness about them! Loved this!
4
View Album
Mon Jul 03 2023
Cut
The Slits
This is one I’ll have to come back to i think. Not too sure about it.
3
View Album
Tue Jul 04 2023
Cloud Nine
The Temptations
Now THIS is why I joined this gig!
This is exactly the kind of music I was hoping to find a way into and what an album! Sounded great even on a shitty Bluetooth speaker! Will defo be listening to and buying again!!
4
View Album
Wed Jul 05 2023
Blood On The Tracks
Bob Dylan
Awesome.
Beautiful words, beautiful melodies and the sound of a man who is an expert in his craft. Almost overwhelmingly beautiful.
5
View Album
Thu Jul 06 2023
Junkyard
The Birthday Party
Jesus wept.
1
View Album
Fri Jul 07 2023
Life Thru A Lens
Robbie Williams
Couple of absolute snorters on this one
Angels, Old Before I Die and Lazy Days. Rest is bang average.
However, I’m removing a star as the fat fucker is one reprehensible human being.
2
View Album
Thu Jul 13 2023
Black Holes and Revelations
Muse
Now I like Muse anyway, but I don’t think they’ve ever bettered their debut album which was incredible.
However, this is close. Very close indeed! An awesome job from start to finish on this one.
Knights of Cydonia should go down as one of the best album closers of all time!
4
View Album
Fri Jul 14 2023
Night Life
Ray Price
God fucking dammit, I loathe country music.
Dire.
1
View Album
Sat Jul 15 2023
Goodbye Yellow Brick Road
Elton John
Absolute CLASSIC! Wall to wall bangers. Hell of an album!
5
View Album
Sun Jul 16 2023
The Black Saint And The Sinner Lady
Charles Mingus
Ok so this isn’t for me. A lot of twiddly doo and twoddly daa.
I can understand how some people think this is peak music, but jazz is a real struggle for me.
2
View Album
Mon Jul 17 2023
Slippery When Wet
Bon Jovi
Some absolutely GREAT stuff on this! Some, not so much! But Bon Jovi rocking you out is not a bad way to spend some time so very enjoyable!
3
View Album
Tue Jul 18 2023
Dire Straits
Dire Straits
Safe, safe as fuck.
Perfectly enjoyable but it’s a bit like admitting it’s time to buy a cardigan.
3
View Album
Wed Jul 19 2023
Boy In Da Corner
Dizzee Rascal
Oiiiiiii!
Yes bruv. But equally, nah bruv.
Time and a place for this, and it was early 2000’s. Not now, and not here.
“Fix Up, Look Sharp” aside, it’s an album of its time.
2
View Album
Thu Jul 20 2023
Crosby, Stills & Nash
Crosby, Stills & Nash
Middle of the road soft folk rock. Not great, not shite. Won’t be rushing back to it.
3
View Album
Fri Jul 21 2023
Fleet Foxes
Fleet Foxes
The harmonies on this are awesome, it’s beautiful music performed well.
Is it going to change my life? No. Am I going to be running to my cd’s to get it on? No.
Very enjoyable for what it is though no doubt about that.
3
View Album
Sat Jul 22 2023
Imagine
John Lennon
Lennon’s best album? Yes.
4
View Album
Sun Jul 23 2023
Celebrity Skin
Hole
I’m not going to lie, when this appeared I physically shrank into myself with a “aw for fuck sake” reaction.
However, this was a real blast! Great album full of strong songs! Will only sound better on a decent stereo too! I’m going to mark it a 3 but really it’s like a 3.75
3
View Album
Mon Jul 24 2023
Damaged
Black Flag
Erm, no thank you.
What an awfully shouty man.
2
View Album
Tue Jul 25 2023
This Year's Model
Elvis Costello & The Attractions
This was excellent! Hadn’t heard a lot of this Elvis prior to this so a real discovery! Will for sure check out some more and add to the list for purchase!
Excellent album!
4
View Album
Wed Jul 26 2023
Sunshine Superman
Donovan
Absolutely spellbinding. I love this album, it’s a favourite!
Beautiful, wistful and melodic folk pop.
4
View Album
Thu Jul 27 2023
In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida
Iron Butterfly
Good solid funky rock and roll album! Bloody enjoyable! Listened to it a few times as I wasn’t sure but there’s hints of Zeppelin, Doors and many more!
3
View Album
Fri Jul 28 2023
C'est Chic
CHIC
I can see it’s value I suppose but it’s not for me.
2
View Album
Sat Jul 29 2023
Frank
Amy Winehouse
This wasn’t good. I felt it droned on to be honest. I know she’s got pipes but it was well below average for me.
2
View Album
Sun Jul 30 2023
Eli And The Thirteenth Confession
Laura Nyro
This was hard to describe in my head but it’s absolutely wonderful. A perfect album for a rainy Sunday afternoon with a quiet beer.
4
View Album
Mon Jul 31 2023
Beach Samba
Astrud Gilberto
This was very interesting, not my absolute cup of tea but it’ll do! Pleasant and quirky.
3
View Album
Fri Aug 11 2023
Enter The Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)
Wu-Tang Clan
Absolute, stonewall, non-debatable, generational, everlasting, jaw dropping, hip hopping banger of an album.
Truly one of the greats.
5
View Album
Sat Aug 12 2023
Illmatic
Nas
An absolute classic of hip hop music. Nas nails this one and continues to do so even to this day.
Im getting older so it’s beginning to feel more and more like I shouldn’t be listening to this kind of stuff, but when it’s this good? Hell fuckin’ yeah boy!
4
View Album
Sun Aug 13 2023
Fresh Fruit for Rotting Vegetables
Dead Kennedys
Hard rocking thrash punk metal!
This was just OK though, didn’t blow me away although Kill The Poor is an absolute tune!
3
View Album
Mon Aug 14 2023
Post Orgasmic Chill
Skunk Anansie
Awesome from start to finish. Absolute cracking album.
By fuck, Skin has some pipes!
4
View Album
Tue Aug 15 2023
Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere
Neil Young & Crazy Horse
Awesome! The more I hear of Neil Young the more I’m digging him! Another one to be added to the collection!
4
View Album
Wed Aug 16 2023
The Modern Lovers
The Modern Lovers
Generic post rock. Didn’t care for this much at all.
2
View Album
Thu Aug 17 2023
Nighthawks At The Diner
Tom Waits
This was really good! I’m not mad for Tom Waits. Tried the usual two, Rain Dogs and Swordfishtrombone or whatever it’s called and they did nothing for me.
This, however, was thoroughly enjoyable. Like listening to some drunk dude tell you stories with lovely musical accompaniment behind him. Really loved the feel of the album!
4
View Album
Fri Aug 18 2023
Happy Trails
Quicksilver Messenger Service
Nice smooth, funky guitar rock! Enjoyed this but won’t be rushing out to buy it I don’t think? Maybe add to the list but not as a priority purchase.
Enjoyed how tight the band sounded.
3
View Album
Sat Aug 19 2023
Wild Is The Wind
Nina Simone
Ok so this is odd, it really did nothing for me! I was looking forward to some sensual, smooth vocals and lush production.
Maybe it’s just me, but it just came across as a bit ramshackle and angry.
Will not return to it.
2
View Album
Sun Aug 20 2023
The Only Ones
The Only Ones
Generic rock by numbers again. How the fuck did this get in as something I have to listen to?
Not unlistenable, but hugely unmoving.
2
View Album
Mon Aug 21 2023
The Holy Bible
Manic Street Preachers
A truly great album. Full of hard hitting riffs, extraordinary vocals and a band on the top of their game!
The last with Richey, and one of their best for sure. It’s harder hitting than some of their other stuff and anyone looking for another of their classic “This Is My Truth, Tell Me Yours” will be a little disappointed by this but I urge you to continue listening.
Tis fucking great.
4
View Album
Wed Aug 23 2023
Bongo Rock
Incredible Bongo Band
Starts off well, enjoyable, funky, energetic and different!
By track 5 though I’m all bongoed out and have had enough.
2
View Album
Thu Aug 24 2023
Dummy
Portishead
Say no more, this is a beautiful and melancholic album full of ethereal vocals and absolutely tremendous trip hop beats.
An absolute gem.
5
View Album
Fri Aug 25 2023
Talk Talk Talk
The Psychedelic Furs
Opens well with “Dumb Waiters” and I was genuinely quite excited that this could go on to be a snorter of an album…
The next few tracks are pretty cool, jangly guitars with a Smiths feel to it and some vocals that could be Bowie going punk so that was ticking the boxes for sure!
Tails off a bit in the middle with a couple of throwaway basic filler tracks then picks up with “So Run Down”
Really good album with just a wee dip but defo one for the future too!
3
View Album
Sat Aug 26 2023
Since I Left You
The Avalanches
Excellent album, and absolutely perfect example of sampling done brilliantly.
Absolutely loved this one.
Frontier Psychiatrist is the stand out track but the whole album passes beautifully.
4
View Album
Sun Aug 27 2023
Violent Femmes
Violent Femmes
Erm, nah. You’re alright.
This wasn’t good, it wasn’t bad but weirdly it wasn’t average either.
2
View Album
Mon Aug 28 2023
The New Tango
Astor Piazzolla
Couldn’t find this so three stars to average it out.
3
View Album
Tue Aug 29 2023
OK Computer
Radiohead
There is very little that can be said about this album that hasn’t been said before.
It is perfect.
5
View Album
Wed Aug 30 2023
Black Monk Time
The Monks
This didn’t do anything for me at all. Seems all a bit average to be honest. I must’ve missed the boat on the “novelty” of them?
2
View Album
Thu Aug 31 2023
Fred Neil
Fred Neil
Yawn.
2
View Album
Fri Sep 01 2023
Connected
Stereo MC's
Well, thus started off great. Connected is a banger, the rest of the album did very little for me though.
I wouldn’t rush to put it off if it came on the stereo, but equally, I don’t think I’d ever seek this album out to listen to.
3
View Album
Sat Sep 02 2023
I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You
Aretha Franklin
Wow!
What a set of pipes! This was awesome! Exactly why I joined this crusade! Loved this all the way through. It’s not perfect, but it’s bloody close.
4
View Album
Sun Sep 03 2023
The Slider
T. Rex
This was a good ol’ romp of glam rock wasn’t it! Enjoyed it well, but not enough to rush out and buy it or add it to my list.
Bloody good though!
3
View Album
Mon Sep 04 2023
Aftermath
The Rolling Stones
Not their best, not their worst.
Stones, innit.
3
View Album
Tue Sep 05 2023
Bookends
Simon & Garfunkel
This is beautiful. I can’t believe I stayed off Si and the funk for so long! Awesome!
4
View Album
Wed Sep 06 2023
Court And Spark
Joni Mitchell
Really didn’t do anything for me. It’s eclectic and sporadic it felt.
Couldn’t really get into it.
It’s not a bad album, or bad music, it just left me underwhelmed.
3
View Album
Thu Sep 07 2023
25
Adele
Well now, Adele is someone I’ve always been aware of but have never dug.
This album is proof to me why. It’s just…ok, and that’s it. There’s a couple of great tunes on it, and there’s no doubting her talent as a songwriter and especially as a singer, but will I ever get home and think “I want to listen to Adele”? No, no I won’t.
3
View Album
Fri Sep 08 2023
Next
The Sensational Alex Harvey Band
Hey this was alright!
Gang Bang is awful though.
3
View Album
Sat Sep 09 2023
Homework
Daft Punk
16 tracks?!???
Over an hour long?!??
Fuckin’ nope.
2
View Album
Sun Sep 10 2023
Fuzzy
Grant Lee Buffalo
Really good album from someone I’ve never even heard of!
This is why we do this!
It’s nothing you haven’t heard before, but it’s great!
3
View Album
Mon Sep 11 2023
Vento De Maio
Elis Regina
Couldn’t find this one, so listened to a couple of her other albums.
Very niche this one, so be prepared. Unless Bossa Nova Samaba Jazz is your bag, then it might not do too much for you.
2
View Album
Tue Sep 12 2023
Led Zeppelin II
Led Zeppelin
Fuckin’ Zeppelin, d’you know what I mean?
4
View Album
Wed Sep 13 2023
Ill Communication
Beastie Boys
Absolutely awesome album. Bloody love the Beastie Boys and this is about as perfect as it gets!
5
View Album
Fri Sep 15 2023
Raw Power
The Stooges
Absolute banger! Great album!
4
View Album
Sat Sep 16 2023
Sheer Heart Attack
Queen
Who doesn’t love a bit of Queen?!
Excellent album full of exactly what you expect!
Not their greatest album, but I can see how it would have been fire back in the day!
3
View Album
Sun Sep 17 2023
Selling England By The Pound
Genesis
Goddamn, I bloody love Genesis!
This is one of my favourites too! Easy 4 stars as I know it’ll be a bit odd for some so it’s not perfect!
4
View Album
Mon Sep 18 2023
The Yes Album
Yes
Prog rock at its proggy rocky synsthesiser best I suppose!
If you dig it, you’ll dig it. If you don’t, you won’t.
Can’t make it any more simple than that I suppose!
3
View Album
Tue Sep 19 2023
Bayou Country
Creedence Clearwater Revival
Meh, this was bang average. Couple of my colleagues were loving it but they’re wankers so it doesn’t count.
2
View Album
Wed Sep 20 2023
Crazysexycool
TLC
Crazy? Not really.
Sexy? Better believe it brothers and sisters!
Cool? As fuck!
Very good album, beautiful soul inspired hip hop tinged pop album.
3
View Album
Thu Sep 21 2023
Walking Wounded
Everything But The Girl
Awful. Couldn’t listen past track 2.
1