1001 Albums Summary

I’m not sure how I feel about this album. Every song feels pretty similar. Only Blitzkreig Bop and I Wanna Be Your Boyfriend felt distinct. And hearing “1-2-3-4” in every song is repetitive. 53rd and 3rd is an interesting song, too. It’s got a more interesting melody. Let’s Dance is fun, too. Is that an organ I’m hearing? Different note: The Ramones are American but they sound super British to me. Overall, I can see how it would've been pretty startling and fresh when it came out. But I don't think I'd add this album to my rotation.

Dynamic, fun. Yesterday I listened to Ramones and there's such a strong contrast between the two albums. Ramones must have been truly jarring to ears more accustomed to music like Derek & The Dominos. I was surprised to learn that Layla and Other Assorted Songs was commercially disappointing; the whole album feels well-crafted. The standout throughout are the incredible guitar solos. And that may actually be the one shortfall of the album: few of the songs have a strong hook and the vocals aren't anything spectacular. Guitar more than makes up for the vocals. But there are some songs where the vocal weaknesses are much more apparent. "Nobody Knows You When You're Down and Out" was sung better by Nina Simone, but the guitar solo in the cover by Derek & The Dominos is terrific. I think this album is really, ultimately, about the guitar. Everything serves the guitar. It's the lead. And on the strength of that, I give this album 4 stars.

A lot of fun. Love the vocal harmonies.

This is such a fun album. I didn’t realize how much of the music I grew up with used samples from C’est Chic. I don’t really know what I was expecting walking in, but I loved how varied the songs were. I think I figured it’d be very lyrical and vocal, but was surprised to find instrumental tracks. Even vocal heavy songs give a lot of room for instrumental expression.